bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exergy indicators of a low-emission aero-engine combustor
Authors: Şöhret Yasin , Karakoc T. Hikmet
Published: January 2018

Purpose

It is essential to develop more environment-friendly energy systems to prevent climate change and minimize environmental impact. Within this scope, many studies are performed on performance and environmental assessments of many types of energy systems. This paper, different from previous studies, aims to prove exergy performance of a low-emission combustor of an aero-engine.

Design/methodology/approach

It is a well-known fact that, with respect to previous exergy analysis, highest exergy destruction occurs in the combustor component of the engine. For this reason, it is required to evaluate a low-emission aero-engine combustor thermodynamically to understand the state of the art according to the authors’ best of knowledge. In this framework, combustor has been operated at numerous conditions (variable engine load) and evaluated.

Findings

As a conclusion of the study, the impact of emission reduction on performance improvement of the aero-engine combustors exergetically is presented. It is stated that exergy efficiency of the low-emission aero-engine combustor is found to be 64.69, 61.95 and 71.97 per cent under various operating conditions.

Practical implications

Results obtained in this paper may be beneficial for researchers who are interested in combustion and propulsion technology and thermal sciences.

Originality/value

Different from former studies, the impact of operating conditions on performance of a combustor is examined from the viewpoint of thermodynamics.
Observer based control scheme for DC-DC boost converter using sigma–delta modulator
Authors: Malekzadeh Milad , Khosravi Alireza , Tavan Mehdi
Published: January 2018

Purpose

In actual application of a DC-DC boost converter, the input voltage and resistive load may be changed frequently, and these variations deteriorate the conventional controller performance. The purpose of this paper is to present an observer-based control scheme for a DC-DC boost converter with an unknown resistive load and input voltage.

Design/methodology/approach

To estimate the unknown input voltage and resistive load, a nonlinear observer is designed by using the Lyapunov stability theorem. In addition, the closed-loop stability of the proposed control scheme for the DC-DC boost converter is proven. To convert the continuous control input to discrete mode, a sigma–delta modulator is used.

Findings

The proposed control scheme is validated in different situations. The adaptive structure of the proposed control scheme is tested by the input voltage, load and reference signal variation, and the simulation results confirm the capability of the proposed observer-based control strategy.

Originality/value

The contribution of this paper is twofold: according to nonlinear controller design, the feedforward term of the nonlinear controller is obtained via the observer, and unlike the proportional–integral controller, performance deterioration in the input voltage and load variations are unraveled. The effectiveness of this method is validated by experimental implementation in the presence of load and input voltage variations, and the experimental results confirm the efficacy of the proposed strategy.
An approach based on ANFIS and input selection procedure for microwave characterization of dielectric materials
Authors: Sadou Hakim , Hacib Tarik , Acikgoz Hulusi , Le-Bihan Yann , Meyer Olivier , Mekideche Mohamed Rachid
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The principle of microwave characterization of dielectric materials using open-ended coaxial line probe is to link the dielectric properties of the sample under test to the measurements of the probe admittance (Y(f) = G(f)+ jB(f )). The purpose of this paper is to develop an alternative inversion tool able to predict the evolution of the complex permittivity (ε = ε′ – jε″) on a broad band frequency (f from 1 MHz to 1.8 GHz).

Design/methodology/approach

The inverse problem is solved using adaptive network based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) which needs the creation of a database for its learning. Unfortunately, train ANFIS using f, G and B as inputs has given unsatisfying results. Therefore, an inputs selection procedure is used to select the three optimal inputs from new inputs, created mathematically from original ones, using the Jang method.

Findings

Inversion results of measurements give, after training, in real time the complex permittivity of solid and liquid samples with a very good accuracy which prove the applicability of ANFIS to solve inverse problems in microwave characterization.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper consists on the use of ANFIS with input selection procedure based on the Jang method to solve the inverse problem where the three optimal inputs are selected from 26 new inputs created mathematically from original ones (f, G and B).
Optimal shape design of multi-layered IPMSM using adaptive dynamic Taylor Kriging model
Authors: Xia Bin , Yeon Junmo , Koh Chang Seop
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a numerically efficient multi-objective optimization strategy, which can improve both the efficiency and performance during the optimization process.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper discusses the multi-objective optimization algorithm by combining multi-objective differential evolution (MODE) algorithm with an adaptive dynamic Taylor Kriging (ADTK) model.

Findings

The proposed approach is validated through application to an analytic example and applied to a shape optimal design of a multi-layered interior permanent magnet synchronous motor for torque ripple reduction while maintaining the average torque.

Originality/value

The ADTK model selects its basis functions adaptively and dynamically so that it may have better accuracy than any other Kriging models. Through adaptive insertion of new sampling data, it guarantees minimum required sampling data for a desired fitting accuracy.
Optimal design of spoke type motor and magnetizer using FEM and RSM
Authors: Kim Young Hyun , Lee Jung Ho
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This study aims to propose criteria for both optimal-shape and magnetizer-system designs to be used for a high-output spoke-type motor. The study also examines methods of reducing high-cogging torque and torque ripple, to prevent noise and vibration.

Design/methodology/approach

The optimal design of the stator and rotor can be enhanced using both a response surface method (RSM) and finite element method (FEM). In addition, a magnetizer system is optimally designed for the magnetization of permanent magnets for use in the motor.

Findings

The criteria not only improve performance but also reduce manufacturing costs. The criteria are verified FEM together with an RSM. These methods are used to optimize the stator and rotor shape and the magnetization system. These methods allow us to produce an efficient system for mass production of the motor.

Originality/value

This study proposed a design method that uses rare earth magnets in a system to replace the spoke-type IPM. To verify the optimal design, torque characteristics were analysed using FEM and RSM. Excellent results were achieved regarding the reduction of cogging torque and torque ripple. In addition, the design of the magnetizer enables a cost-effective mass production system for the motor.
Applying fuzzy interpretive structural modeling to evaluate responsible consumption and production under uncertainty
Authors: Wang Liang , Ma Li , Wu Kuo-Jui , Chiu Anthony S.F. , Nathaphan Sarayut
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to adopt fuzzy interpretive structural modeling (ISM) to develop a precise evaluation framework and provide a theoretical basis for enhancing the understanding of responsible consumption and production (RCP) in academic and industrial fields.

Design/methodology/approach

An integration of fuzzy set theory and ISM is proposed to maintain a higher level of consistency and reduce the uncertainty inherent in expert responses.

Findings

RCP can be categorized into seven levels, which represent the driving power from higher to lower. The top aspect is management style; the remaining aspects are stakeholder management, regulation compliance, efficiency improvement, sustainable awareness, sustainable production and social responsibility.

Research limitations/implications

This study attempts to integrate the triple bottom line (TBL) concept and corporate sustainability to develop a significant framework for evaluating RCP. Although the proposed aspects and criteria can be used to evaluate the Chinese construction industry, these may be insufficient for other industries. In addition, further discussion regarding important aspects and criteria is required to complete the theoretical basis.

Practical implications

The results indicate that the top two criteria are establishing transparent communication channels and promoting managerial attitudes and behavior, which are followed by technology capabilities, organizational culture and stakeholder engagement. These five criteria play important roles when implementing RCP practices among Chinese construction firms.

Originality/value

This study is the first to discuss RCP via an integration of the TBL concept and corporate sustainability. The framework developed herein provides a precise guideline for Chinese construction firms to improve their performance, and it also promotes the efficient use of resources via sustainable practices.
Consumer value considerations and adoption of remanufactured products in closed-loop supply chains
Authors: Wang Yacan , Hazen Benjamin T. , Mollenkopf Diane A.
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The success of closed loop supply chains is contingent upon consumer acceptance of remanufactured products, yet little is known about how consumers value such products. The purpose of this paper is to provide theoretical grounding for understanding consumers’ value perceptions as related to remanufactured products.

Design/methodology/approach

Diffusion of innovation theory and customer perceived value literature help form the theoretical model, which is tested empirically using survey data of consumers. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Perceived value of remanufactured products is measured as a function of perceived benefits (environmental benefits; price advantage) and perceived sacrifices (perceived quality; perceived risk), all of which are shown to impact perceived value. Additionally, perceived risk is found to partially mediate the relationship between perceived quality and perceived value.

Originality/value

This research makes two significant contributions. First, mid-range theory that is contextualized to the closed loop supply chain is developed to aid researchers and practitioners in better understanding the consumer’s role in the closed loop supply chain, as related to the acceptance of remanufactured products. Second, consumer acceptance of remanufactured products represents a form of supply chain demand risk that has previously been unrecognized. The results provide a foundation for incorporating this type of demand risk in to future research efforts.
Competency and effectiveness of internal Shariah audit in Islamic financial institutions
Authors: Khalid Azam Abdelhakeem , Haron Hasnah , Masron Tajul Ariffin
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose the conceptual relationship between competency and effectiveness of internal Shariah auditors in Islamic financial institutions (IFIs).

Design/methodology/approach

Normative and theorizing based on the main sources of Islam, mainly Maqasid al-Shariah theory, has been utilized in this research.

Findings

This study demonstrated how Maqasid al-Shariah or higher objectives of Islamic law have gradually captured the attention of increasing numbers of modern Muslim scholars for solving contemporary issues.

Originality/value

This study uniquely captured Maqasid al-Shariah for the competency of internal Shariah auditor.
Analysis of commodity reserve currency system from Siyasah Shariyyah perspective
Authors: Ahmed Jameel , Meera Ahamed Kameel Mydin , Saleem Muhammad Yusuf , Collins Patrick
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to apply the doctrine ofsiyasah shariyyahto a policy proposal in the area of monetary economics, namely, the Grondona system of conditional currency convertibility, which has been proposed as a practical means of resisting the economic instability caused by the present-day fiat money system.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses library research to review the literature relevant to the Grondona system, and examines the extent to which its operations conform to the principle ofsiyasah shariyyah, thereby encouraging Maslahah, i.e. the public interest.

Findings

It has been found that the Grondona system conforms to the philosophy ofsiyasah shariyyahbecause it promotes public welfare in a number of ways. First, it is based on the fundamental principle of Prophet Yusuf’s/Joseph (peace be upon him) economic planning, which is accumulating reserves of primary commodities during times of plenty and releasing those reserves of commodities during periods of scarcity. Second, it provides the necessary linkage between the monetary world and the real economy. Third, it could be implemented in parallel with the existing monetary system by using the national currency. Fourth, it would help the least developed countries of the world, which mainly depend on exports of primary commodities (mostly agricultural).

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen research approach, this research study is theoretical in nature. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to evaluate the system from economic perspective based on simulation for the purpose of possible implementation.

Practical implications

The paper includes important implications for the policymakers in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation countries for the possible implementation of Grondona system.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need to apply the philosophy ofsiyasah shariyyahto the area of monetary economics.
Exploring the relationship between corporate social responsibility, brand image and brand equity in Iranian banking industry
Authors: Salehzadeh Reza , Khazaei Pool Javad , Jafari Najafabadi Amir Hossein
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to explore the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR), brand image (BI) and brand equity (BE) in the banking industry of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the deductive approach as the methodology and 213 valid questionnaires returned by customers of Iranian banks in four big cities of Iran, this study tests the relationship between CSR, BI and BE in eight hypotheses. The data were analyzed by the partial least squares method.

Findings

The results of this research show that CSR has a significant direct effect on BI. Also, BI has a significant direct effect on BE.

Originality/value

This research provides valuable insight for studying the relationship between CSR, BI and BE. The results of this study provide a better understanding of the role of CSR in customers’ attitudes and behaviors in the banking industry.
Error patterns in Portuguese students’ addition and subtraction calculation tasks
Authors: Watson Silvana Maria R. , Lopes João , Oliveira Célia , Judge Sharon
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this descriptive study is to investigate why some elementary children have difficulties mastering addition and subtraction calculation tasks.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers have examined error types in addition and subtraction calculation made by 697 Portuguese students in elementary grades. Each student completed a written assessment of mathematical knowledge. A system code (e.g. FR = failure to regroup) has been used to grade the tests. A reliability check has been performed on 65 per cent randomly selected exams.

Findings

Data frequency analyses reveal that the most common type of error was miscalculation for both addition (n= 164; 38.6 per cent) and subtraction (n= 180; 21.7 per cent). The second most common error type was related to failure to regroup in addition (n= 74; 17.5 per cent) and subtraction (n= 139; 16.3 per cent). Frequency of error types by grade level has been provided. Findings from the hierarchical regression analyses indicate that students’ performance differences emerged as a function of error types which indicated students’ types of difficulties.

Research limitations/implications

There are several limitations of this study: the use of a convenient sample; all schools were located in the northern region of Portugal; the limited number of problems; and the time of the year of assessment.

Practical implications

Students’ errors suggested that their performance in calculation tasks is related to conceptual and procedural knowledge and skills. Error analysis allows teachers to better understand the individual performance of a diverse group and to tailor instruction to ensure that all students have an opportunity to succeed in mathematics.

Social implications

Error analysis helps teachers uncover individual students’ difficulties and deliver meaningful instruction to all students.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the international literature on error analysis and reinforces its value in diagnosing students’ type and severity of math difficulties.
Divergence of opinion and moderating effect of investors’ attentions in IPO market
Authors: Narayanasamy Cheedradevi , Rashid Mamunur , Ibrahim Izani
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to bridge the gap between the theory underlying divergence of opinion (DOP) and a cognitive concept termed as attention by specifically focussing on the volume and price behaviour in initial public offering (IPO) settings.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing the hierarchical regression for a sample of 282 Malaysian fixed price IPOs issued from 2004 to 2014, this research investigated the effect of investors’ attention on other information that complements the information revealed by initial return on DOP. Measure of market adjusted turnover (AbTO) from non-IPO setting was used to capture the DOP in the after-market, while investors’ attention was on a dichotomise scale variable which was captured by the increase/decrease of the Google search index (GOGC2) on the month of listing compared to a month prior to listing.

Findings

The findings indicate that attention moderates the relationship between initial return (also surrogates underpriced IPOs) and DOP. The findings suggest that disagreement to initial returns is reduced, while liquidity in the after-market is promoted, when investors pay more attention to other information that complements price change. The findings also indicate that behavioural tendency is less when individual participation is weak.

Research limitations/implications

This paper highlights the importance of interaction effects in explaining the behavioural tendency in the after-market.

Practical implications

The weak individual investors’ participation and greater attention reduce the market inefficiency in Malaysia.

Originality/value

The finding is consistent with the view that the level of individual investors’ participation and information disclosure requirements has an implication on behavioural bias, which affects DOP in the after-market.
Cuckoos host range is associated positively with distribution range and negatively with evolutionary uniqueness
Authors: Morelli Federico , Benedetti Yanina , Møller Anders Pape , Liang Wei , Carrascal Luis M.
Published: January 2018

The evolutionary distinctiveness (ED) score is a measure of phylogenetic isolation that quantifies the evolutionary uniqueness of a species.

Here, we compared theEDscore of parasitic and non‐parasitic cuckoo species world‐wide, to understand whether parental care or parasitism represents the largest amount of phylogenetic uniqueness. Next, we focused only on 46 cuckoo species characterized by brood parasitism with a known number of host species, and we explored the associations amongEDscore, number of host species and breeding range size for these species. We assessed these associations using phylogenetic generalized least squares (PGLS) models, taking into account the phylogenetic signal.

Parasitic cuckoo species were not more unique in terms of ED than non‐parasitic species. However, we found a significant negative association between the evolutionary uniqueness and host range and a positive correlation between the number of host species and range size of parasitic cuckoos, probably suggesting a passive sampling of hosts by parasitic species as the breeding range broadens.

The findings of this study showed that more generalist brood parasites occupied very different positions in a phylogenetic tree, suggesting that they have evolved independently within the Cuculiformes order. Finally, we demonstrated that specialist cuckoo species also represent the most evolutionarily unique species in the order of Cuculiformes.
Testing the Impact of Mixed‐Mode Designs (Mail and Web) and Multiple Contact Attempts within Mode (Mail or Web) on Clinician Survey Response
Authors: Beebe Timothy J. , Jacobson Robert M. , Jenkins Sarah M. , Lackore Kandace A. , Rutten Lila J. Finney
Published: January 2018

Objective

To compare response rate and nonresponse bias across two mixed‐mode survey designs and two single‐mode designs.

Data Sources

This experiment was embedded in a clinician survey of knowledge and attitudes regarding HPV vaccination (n = 275).

Study Design

Clinicians were randomly assigned one of two mixed‐mode (mail/web or web/mail) or single‐mode designs (mail‐only/web‐only). Differences in response rate and nonresponse bias were assessed.

Principal Findings

Using a multiple‐contact protocol increased response, and sending a web survey first provided the more rapid response. Overall, the mixed‐mode survey designs generated final response rates approximately 10 percentage points higher than their single‐mode counterparts, although only the final response differences between the mail‐only and web/mail conditions attained statistical significance (32.1 percent vs. 48 percent, respectively; p = .005). Observed differences did not result in nonresponse bias.

Conclusions

Results support mixing modes of survey administration and web‐based data collection in a multiple contact survey data collection protocol.
The landscapes of professional farms in mid‐sized cities, France
Authors: Scheromm Pascale , Soulard Christophe Toussaint
Published: January 2018

In this paper, we provide a spatial analysis of agriculture in three mid‐sized French cities, with a particular focus on professional farms. The existence of important agricultural spaces inside the cities is confirmed. We reveal the persistence of a field‐based, market‐oriented agriculture in French mid‐sized cities, often ignored in studies on urban agriculture, and usually made invisible. Our results highlight the farms' diversity, as well as a diversity of farmers' viewpoints on the relations between urban and agricultural places. We emphasise the importance of three main determinants in the observed dynamics: the cities' geographies; the impact on farmers of land speculation and urbanisation; and the implementation of resistance and adaptation processes by some farmers. These results are discussed in relation to the literature on urban and peri‐urban agriculture.
Impact of High Hydrostatic Pressure on the Shelling Efficacy, Physicochemical Properties, and Microstructure of Fresh Razor Clam (Sinonovacula constricta)
Authors: Xuan Xiao‐Ting , Cui Yan , Lin Xu‐Dong , Yu Jing‐Feng , Liao Xiao‐Jun , Ling Jian‐Gang , Shang Hai‐Tao
Published: January 2018

The effects of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treatments (200, 300, and 400 MPa for 1, 3, 5 and 10 min) on the shelling efficacy (the rate of shelling, the rate of integrity and yield of razor clam meat) and the physicochemical (drip loss, water‐holding capacity, pH, conductivity, lipid oxidation, Ca2+‐ATPase activity, myofibrillar protein content), microbiological (total viable counts) and microstructural properties of fresh razor clam (Sinonovacula constricta) were investigated. HHP treatments significantly (P < 0.05) increased shelling efficiency, water‐holding capacity, pH, conductivity, and lipid oxidation, and HHP‐treated razor clam showed lower levels of microorganisms and drip loss than untreated razor clam. Levels of thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBA) in HHP‐treated razor clam were greatly increased (up to 0.93 ± 0.09 mg MDA/kg at 400 MPa for 10 min) which was caused by the formation of hydroperoxides during HHP treatment. All HHP treatments were found to have adverse effects on the activity of Ca2+‐ATPase and the content of myofibrillar protein (MP), which might be due to the substantial damage to the tertiary structure of proteins at high pressure. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the compaction of the muscle fibers and a decrease in the extracellular space with increasing pressure and holding time. This phenomenon was mainly correlated with the compaction of muscle fibers and denaturation, aggregation, and gelation of muscle protein triggered by high pressure. In general, HHP could be applied as a safe and effective nonthermal technology to produce high‐quality shelled razor clam.

Practical application

High hydrostatic pressure (HHP) is now well known as a nonthermal processing technology and becoming increasingly acknowledged. However, it has not been widely applied to shell seafood due to its uncertain influence on its quality and shelling property. This study could provide valuable information regarding the shelling efficacy, physicochemical properties, and microstructure of razor clam treated by HHP. And it demonstrated that HHP showed a positive impact on quality of razor clam treated by HHP.
Application of a Dielectric Barrier Discharge Atmospheric Cold Plasma (Dbd‐Acp) for Eshcerichia Coli Inactivation in Apple Juice
Authors: Liao Xinyu , Li Jiao , Muhammad Aliyu Idris , Suo Yuanjie , Chen Shiguo , Ye Xingqian , Liu Donghong , Ding Tian
Published: January 2018

Atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) is a promising non‐thermal technology in food industry. In this study, a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD)‐ACP exhibited strong bactericidal effect on Escherichia coli in apple juice. Under a 30 to 50 W input power, less than 40 s treatment time was required for DBD‐ACP to result in 3.98 to 4.34 log CFU/mL reduction of E. coli in apple juice. The inactivation behavior of ACP on E. coli was well described by the Weibull model. During the treatment, the cell membrane of E. coli was damaged severely by active species produced by plasma, such as hydrogen peroxide, ozone and nitrate. In addition, the ACP exposure had slight effect on the °Brix, pH, titratable acidity (TA), color values, total phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity of apple juice. However, higher level of DBD‐ACP treatment, 50 W for more than 10 s in this case, resulted in significant change of the pH, TA, color and total phenolic content of apple juice. The results in this study have provided insight in potential use of DBD‐ACP as an alternative to thermal processing for fruit juices in food industry.

Practical Application

Escherichia coli O157:H7 in apple juice is a potential risk for public health. This study demonstrated that 30 s cold plasma treatment resulted in more than 4 log CFU/mL reduction under 50 W, while the quality attributes of apple juice were not significantly affected. Therefore, cold plasma technology is a promising alternative substitute of traditional thermal processing for juice pasteurization.
Investigation into the Microstructure, Texture and Rheological Properties of Chocolate Ganache
Authors: McGill Jade , Hartel Rich W.
Published: January 2018

Ganache is a mixture of chocolate and dairy. Although a popular confection, little is known about how it functions as a system. Objectives were to (1) determine if dairy fats and cocoa butter mix in ganache, (2) characterize ganache microstructure, and how structure affects texture and rheology, and (3) identify how changes in chocolate composition alter ganache. Textural analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, stress sweep tests, and microscopy were used to examine ganache formulations that varied in dairy source (cream or butter) or in solid fat content (SFC), composition or type of chocolate. Melting temperatures for all ganache formulations were lower than for chocolate, indicating that cream milk fat globules rupture during processing, and mix with cocoa butter. Altering the SFC of chocolate affected ganache hardness, spreadability, melting enthalpy, and resistance to deformation. Chocolate systems made with constant fat content and greater amounts of defatted cocoa powder relative to sugar or nonfat milk powder yielded ganache that was harder, less spreadable, and more resistant to deformation. Ganache made with commercially produced dark, milk, and white chocolates behaved similarly to model chocolate systems. Ganache attributes are affected by chocolate crystalline fat content in addition to particle phase volume—greater levels of cocoa powder, which is mostly insoluble, strengthens ganache structure, producing a firmer product, whereas greater levels of milk powder and sugar, which dissolve in the aqueous cream component, produce a softer ganache.

Practical Application

Understanding how ganache functions as a system and how differences in chocolate composition affect its textural and rheological properties may allow for greater control over the desired characteristics of the final product. For example, this research shows how changing cocoa content of the chocolate affects ganache, which is useful when developing formulations involving chocolates with different cocoa percentages. There may also be cost saving implications; for example, using a chocolate with a harder cocoa butter may allow less total chocolate to be used in a formulation, while still achieving an appropriate texture.
Evaluation of the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Satellite Rainfall Products over the Lower Colorado River Basin, Texas
Authors: Omranian Ehsan , Sharif Hatim O.
Published: January 2018

Quality of precipitation products from the Integrated Multi‐satellitE Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement mission (IMERG) was evaluated over the Lower Colorado River Basin of Texas. Observations of several rainfall events of a wide range of magnitudes during May 2015 by a very dense network of 241 rain gauges over the basin were used as a reference. The impact of temporal and spatial downscaling of different satellite products (near/post‐real‐time) on their accuracy was studied. Generally, all IMERG products perform better when the temporal and spatial resolutions are downscaled. The Final product shows relatively better performance compared to the near‐real‐time products in terms of basic performance measures; however, regarding rainfall detection, all products show nearly similar performance. When considering rainfall detection, IMERG adequately captures the precipitation events; however, in terms of spatial patterns and accuracy, more improvements are needed. IMERG products analysis results may help developers gain insight into the regional performance of the product, improve the product algorithms, and provide information to end users on the products’ suitability for potential hydrometeorological applications. Overall, the IMERG products, even the uncalibrated product at its finest resolution, showed reasonable performance indicating their great potential for applications such as water resources management, prevention of natural disasters, and flood forecasting.
Differences in mortality in a cohort of cocaine use disorder patients with concurrent alcohol or opiates disorder
Authors: Colell Esther , Domingo‐Salvany Antònia , Espelt Albert , Parés‐Badell Oleguer , Brugal M. Teresa
Published: January 2018

Aims

To study mortality in a cohort of cocaine use disorder patients, and compare results in those with concurrent alcohol or opiates disorder.

Design, Setting and Participants

A cohort of 10 539 cocaine use disorder individuals entering drug treatment in public out‐patient centres in the city of Barcelona was followed from 1997 to 2011. Participants were divided at baseline into three groups: those with only cocaine use disorder (CUD), those with cocaine and alcohol use disorder but not opioid (CAUD) and those with cocaine and opioid use disorder (COUD). Mortality was assessed through the Spanish National Mortality Register.

Measurements

Crude mortality rates (CMR), standardized mortality ratios (SMR) and rate ratios (RR) were calculated for each group. A multivariable Cox regression model was fitted to obtain adjusted mortality hazard ratios (aHR) of CAUD and COUD with respect to CUD. Specific mortality causes were also examined.

Findings

The total of 716 deaths registered resulted in a CMR = 6.0/1000 person‐years (PY); 95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.1–7.0 for CUD, CMR = 5.8/1000 PY (95% CI = 4.9–6.7) for CAUD and CMR = 20.7/1000 PY (95% CI = 18.8–22.8) for COUD, with no significant differences among sexes. Compared with the general population, mortality was four times higher (SMR = 4.1, 95% CI = 3.5–4.8) among CUD, more than three times among CAUD (SMR = 3.4, 95% CI = 2.9–3.9) and more than 10 times among COUD (SMR = 11.6, 95% CI = 10.5–12.8), being always higher in women. External injuries, led by overdose, accumulated the biggest percentage of deaths among the three groups, but infectious diseases showed the highest excess mortality. Some differences regarding causes of death were observed between the three groups.

Conclusions

Mortality risk and excess mortality are significantly greater among those with cocaine and opiates use disorder than among people with only cocaine use disorder or cocaine and alcohol use disorder.
Identification of T‐cell epitopes from benzylpenicillin conjugated to human serum albumin and implication in penicillin allergy
Authors: Azoury M. E. , Filì L. , Bechara R. , Scornet N. , de Chaisemartin L. , Weaver R. J. , Claude N. , Maillere B. , Parronchi P. , Joseph D. , Pallardy M.
Published: January 2018

Background

There is in vitro evidence that T cells from allergic patients react to benzylpenicillin‐human serum albumin (BP‐HSA) bioconjugates. Our group has recently shown the existence of naïve CD4+ T cells recognizing BP‐HSA in healthy donors. However, BP‐haptenated peptides from HSA participating in the immunization of allergic patients have never been identified. The purpose of the present study is to identify immunodominant BP‐haptenated peptides from HSA involved in immunization of patients to BP and to refine the frequency calculation of naïve CD4+ T cells recognizing BP.

Methods

Co‐cultures were established with CD4+ T cells from non‐allergic donors and mature autologous dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with BP‐HSA or BP‐haptenated peptides from HSA. The CD4+ T‐cell response specific for BP‐HSA or for individual BP‐haptenated peptides was measured using an interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) ELISpot assay. The frequency of BP‐specific CD4+ T cells was then calculated using the Poisson distribution. BP‐HSA and BP‐haptenated peptides recognition by allergic patients was evaluated on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using a lymphocyte transformation test (LTT).

Results

Results showed that BP‐HSA and BP‐haptenated peptides were recognized by naïve T cells from 15/16 and 13/14 tested healthy donors, respectively. Most donors responded to 3 peptides with BP covalently bound on lysines 159, 212, and 525. Two of these benzylpenicilloylated peptides (lysines 159 and 525) were also found to induce PBMCs proliferation in patients with allergic reaction to penicillins.

Conclusion

This study identifies and characterizes for the first time the BP‐haptenated peptides from HSA involved in the immunization of patients to penicillins.
Accuracy of fetal fibronectin for assessing preterm birth risk in asymptomatic pregnant women: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dos Santos Francois , Daru Jahnavi , Rogozińska Ewelina , Cooper Natalie A. M.
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Fetal fibronectin (fFN) is a validated test for assessing risk of preterm birth for women presenting with symptoms. Our aim was to evaluate the accuracy of fFN to detect the risk of preterm birth in asymptomatic women.

Material and methods

Searches were conducted to identify studies where fFN was performed in asymptomatic women beyond 22 weeks' gestation. EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINHAL, AMED and BNI were searched between 2005 and 2017. Studies before 2005 were identified from a published systematic review. Women were grouped as singleton pregnancies, with and without risk factors for preterm birth, and multiple pregnancy. Quality assessment was performed using QUADAS‐2. When possible, data were pooled using a hierarchical, bivariate random effects model.

Results

Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria: six studies of singleton pregnancies in women without risk factors (1236 women), four in women with risk factors for preterm birth (2628 women) and five studies were of multiple pregnancy (1427 women). The pooled sensitivity and specificity of fFN in “no risk factors singletons” were 0.48 (95% CI 0.20–0.77), and 0.96 (95% CI 0.86–0.99), respectively. The likelihood ratio of a positive test result was 12 (95% CI 4.70–30.68). The pooled sensitivity and specificity of fFN in “risk factors singletons” were 0.34 (95% CI 0.24–0.43), and 0.91 (95% CI 0.88–0.93). The accuracy of fFN in multiple pregnancies was inconclusive.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest in asymptomatic singleton pregnancies without risk factors, a positive fFN result indicates a large shift from pre‐ to post‐test probability, possibly identifying women at increased risk of preterm birth.
Association of microRNA‐200c expression levels with clinicopathological factors and prognosis in endometrioid endometrial cancer
Authors: Wilczynski Milosz , Danielska Justyna , Domanska‐Senderowska Daria , Dzieniecka Monika , Szymanska Bozena , Malinowski Andrzej
Published: January 2018

Introduction

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are regulators of gene expression, which play an important role in many critical cellular processes including apoptosis, proliferation and cell differentiation. Aberrant miRNA expression has been reported in a variety of human malignancies. Therefore, miRNAs may be potentially used as cancer biomarkers. miRNA‐200c, which is a member of the miRNA‐200 family, might play an essential role in tumor progression. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic and clinical significance of miRNA‐200c in women with endometrioid endometrial cancer.

Material and methods

Total RNA extraction from 90 archival formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue samples of endometri‐oid endometrial cancer and 10 normal endometrium samples was performed. After cDNA synthesis, real‐time polymerase chain reaction was conducted and relative expression of miRNA‐200c was assessed. Then, miRNA‐200c expression levels were evaluated with regard to clinicopathological characteristics.

Results

The expression levels of miRNA‐200c were significantly increased in endometrioid endometrial cancer samples. Expression of miRNA‐200c maintained at significantly higher levels in the early stage endometrioid endometrial cancer compared with more advanced stages. In the Kaplan–Meier analysis, lower levels of miRNA‐200c expression were associated with inferior survival.

Conclusions

Expression levels of miRNA‐200c might be associated with clinicopathological factors and survival in endometrioid endometrial cancer.
Fingerprinting Glues Using HS‐SPME GC×GC–HRTOFMS: a New Powerful Method Allows Tracking Glues Back in Time
Authors: Cnuts D. , Perrault K. A. , Stefanuto P.‐H. , Dubois L. M. , Focant J.‐F. , Rots V.
Published: January 2018

The use of glues for stone tool hafting is an important innovation in human evolution. Compared to other organic remains, glues are preserved more frequently, though mainly in small spots. Reliable identification requires chemical molecular characterization, which is traditionally performed by gas chromatography  –  mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Current methods of extraction and derivatization prior to GC–MS are destructive and require relatively large samples, which is problematic for prehistoric glue residues. In this paper, we discuss the results of an experimental study using a new method (HS‐SPME GC×GC–HRTOFMS) that proves effective for identifying small quantities of compound glues. The method is non‐destructive with an improved sensitivity in comparison to traditional GC–MS, and it has a high potential for prehistoric samples.
The role of negative cognitions, emotion regulation strategies, and attachment style in complex post‐traumatic stress disorder: Implications for new and existing therapies
Authors: Karatzias Thanos , Shevlin Mark , Hyland Philip , Brewin Chris R. , Cloitre Marylene , Bradley Aoife , Kitchiner Neil J. , Jumbe Sandra , Bisson Jonathan I. , Roberts Neil P.
Published: January 2018

Objective

We set out to investigate the association between negative trauma‐related cognitions, emotional regulation strategies, and attachment style and complex post‐traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD). As the evidence regarding the treatment of CPTSD is emerging, investigating psychological factors that are associated with CPTSD can inform the adaptation or the development of effective interventions for CPTSD.

Method

A cross‐sectional design was employed. Measures of CPTSD, negative trauma‐related cognitions, emotion regulation strategies, and attachment style were completed by a British clinical sample of trauma‐exposed patients (N = 171). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the predictive utility of these psychological factors on diagnosis of CPTSD as compared to PTSD.

Results

It was found that the most important factor in the diagnosis of CPTSD was negative trauma‐related cognitions about the self, followed by attachment anxiety, and expressive suppression.

Conclusions

Targeting negative thoughts and attachment representations while promoting skills acquisition in emotional regulation hold promise in the treatment of CPTSD. Further research is required on the development of appropriate models to treat CPTSD that tackle skills deficit in these areas.

Practitioner points

Results suggest that cognitive‐behavioural interventions might be useful for the treatment of CPTSD.

Targeting negative thoughts and attachment representations while promoting skills acquisition in emotional regulation hold promise in the treatment of CPTSD.
Predicting the hearing outcome in sudden sensorineural hearing loss via machine learning models
Authors: Bing D. , Ying J. , Miao J. , Lan L. , Wang D. , Zhao L. , Yin Z. , Yu L. , Guan J. , Wang Q.
Published: January 2018

Objective

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) is a multifactorial disorder with high heterogeneity, thus the outcomes vary widely. This study aimed to develop predictive models based on four machine learning methods for SSHL, identifying the best performer for clinical application.

Design

Single‐centre retrospective study.

Setting

Chinese People's liberation army (PLA) hospital, Beijing, China.

Participants

A total of 1220 in‐patient SSHL patients were enrolled between June 2008 and December 2015.

Main outcome measures

An advanced deep learning technique, deep belief network (DBN), together with the conventional logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM) and multilayer perceptron (MLP) were developed to predict the dichotomised hearing outcome of SSHL by inputting six feature collections derived from 149 potential predictors. Accuracy, precision, recall, F‐score and the area under the receiver operator characteristic curves (ROC‐AUC) were exploited to compare the prediction performance of different models.

Results

Overall the best predictive ability was provided by the DBN model when tested in the raw data set with 149 variables, achieving an accuracy of 77.58% and AUC of 0.84. Nevertheless, DBN yielded inferior performance after feature pruning. In contrast, the LR, SVM and MLP models demonstrated opposite trend as the greatest individual prediction powers were obtained when included merely three variables, with the ROC‐AUC ranging from 0.79 to 0.81, and then decreased with the increasing size of input features combinations.

Conclusions

With the input of enough features, DBN can be a robust prediction tool for SSHL. But LR is more practical for early prediction in routine clinical application using three readily available variables, that is time elapse between symptom onset and study entry, initial hearing level and audiogram.
Blood flow restriction and cuff width: effect on blood flow in the legs
Authors: Mouser J. Grant , Dankel Scott J. , Mattocks Kevin T. , Jessee Matthew B. , Buckner Samuel L. , Abe Takashi , Loenneke Jeremy P.
Published: January 2018

Much of the literature examining blood flow restriction in the lower body uses cuffs of differing widths. It is currently unknown whether similar relative pressures using cuffs of differing widths elicit the same blood flow response.

Purpose

To examine the hemodynamic responses to relative pressures using two commonly used cuffs (10 and 12 cm).

Methods

In a random order over two laboratory visits, one cuff was applied to the right proximal thigh of the participant (men = 17, women = 14), and arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) was measured. Ultrasound measures of blood flow, mean blood velocity, peak blood velocity and artery diameter were taken from the posterior tibial artery at rest and during the application of 10% increments of the AOP.

Results

There was no significant difference between the 10‐ and 12‐cm cuff relating to blood flow (−0·501 ml min−1, SD 7·9, P = 0·728), mean blood velocity (−0·168 cm s−1, SD 1·7, P = 0·590), peak blood velocity (0·586 cm s−1, SD 11·7, P = 0·783) or artery diameter (0·003 cm, SD 0·02, P = 0·476). There was a main effect of pressure for blood flow (P<0·0005), mean blood velocity (P<0·0005), peak blood velocity (P<0·0005) and artery diameter (P = 0·005), with each decreasing with increasing pressures. Peak blood velocity increased to 60% of AOP before decreasing with increased pressure.

Conclusion

As long as relative pressures are applied, cuff width appears to have little to no effect on the blood flow stimulus during blood flow restriction at rest.
Does advanced lung inflammation index (ALI) have prognostic significance in metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer?
Authors: Ozyurek Berna Akinci , Ozdemirel Tugce Sahin , Ozden Sertac Buyukyaylaci , Erdoğan Yurdanur , Ozmen Ozlem , Kaplan Bekir , Kaplan Tugba
Published: January 2018

Background

Lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed and death‐related cancer type and is more frequent in males. Non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for about 85% of all case. In this study, it was aimed to research the relationship between advanced lung inflammation index (ALI) and the primary mass maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) at initial diagnosis and the prognostic value of ALI in determining the survival in metastatic NSCLC.

Methods

A total of 112 patients diagnosed as stage 4 non‐small‐lung cancer in our hospital between January 2006 and December 2013 were included in this study. ALI was calculated as body mass index (BMI) × serum albumin/neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR). The patients were divided into two groups as ALI < 18 (high inflammation) and ALI ≥ 18 (low inflammation). The log‐rank test and Cox proportional hazard model were used to identify predictors of mortality.

Results

Evaluation was made of 94 male and 18 female patients with a mean age of 59.7 ± 9.9 years. A statistically significant negative relationship was determined between ALI and CRP values (P < .001), but no relationship was found between ALI and SUVmax values (P = .436). The median survival time in patients with ALI < 18 was 12 months and, in those with ALI ≥ 18, it was 16 months (P = .095).

Conclusion

ALI is an easily calculated indicator of inflammation in lung cancer patients. Values <18 can be considered to predict a poor prognosis.