bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dirac equation for spherically symmetric AdS5 spacetime and application to a boson star in EGB gravity
Authors: Brihaye Yves , Delsate Térence , Sawado Nobuyuki , Yoshii Hiroaki
Published: February 2017

We discuss the Dirac equation in a curved 5-dimensional spherically symmetric spacetime. The angular part of the solutions is thoroughly studied, in a formulation suited for extending to rotating spacetimes with equal angular momenta. It has a symmetry [Formula: see text] and is implemented by the Wigner functions. The radial part forms a Dirac–Schrödinger type equation, and existence of the analytical solutions of the massless and the massive modes is confirmed. The solutions are described by the Jacobi polynomials. Also, the spinor of the both large and small components is obtained numerically. As a direct application of our formulation, we evaluate the spectrum of the Dirac fermion in Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet spacetime and the spacetime of a boson star.
Science and status of the Electron Ion Collider
Authors: Deshpande A.
Published: February 2017

The US Nuclear Science Advisory Committee (NSAC) recently recommended the construction of a high-luminosity, high-energy Electron Ion Collider (EIC), with polarized beams capable of colliding polarized electrons with polarized proton and light ion beams, and with any nucleus. The [Formula: see text] range between 40[Formula: see text]GeV and 140[Formula: see text]GeV, and luminosity range from [Formula: see text] were recommended. It is anticipated that under the current guidance from the DOE, the collider could become operational in the second half of the 2020’s. This paper summarizes its science and the scope of this over all project.
Large‐Scale Network Plan Optimization Using Improved Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Houxian , Yang Zhaolan
Published: February 2017

No relevant reports have been reported on the optimization of a large‐scale network plan with more than 200 works due to the complexity of the problem and the huge amount of computation. In this paper, an improved particle swarm optimization algorithm via optimization of initial particle swarm (OIPSO) is first explained by the stochastic processes theory. Then two optimization examples are solved using this method which are the optimization of resource‐leveling with fixed duration and the optimization of resources constraints with shortest project duration in a large network plan with 223 works. Through these two examples, under the same number of iterations, it is proven that the improved algorithm (OIPSO) can accelerate the optimization speed and improve the optimization effect of particle swarm optimization (PSO).
Small Interfering RNA Targeting Mitochondrial Calcium Uniporter Improves Cardiomyocyte Cell Viability in Hypoxia/Reoxygenation Injury by Reducing Calcium Overload
Authors: Oropeza-Almazán Yuriana , Vázquez-Garza Eduardo , Chapoy-Villanueva Héctor , Torre-Amione Guillermo , García-Rivas Gerardo
Published: February 2017

Intracellular Ca2+ mishandling is an underlying mechanism in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury that results in mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiomyocytes death. These events are mediated by mitochondrial Ca2+ (mCa2+) overload that is facilitated by the mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) channel. Along this line, we evaluated the effect of siRNA‐targeting MCU in cardiomyocytes subjected to H/R injury. First, cardiomyocytes treated with siRNA demonstrated a reduction of MCU expression by 67%, which resulted in significant decrease in mitochondrial Ca2+ transport. siRNA treated cardiomyocytes showed decreased mitochondrial permeability pore opening and oxidative stress trigger by Ca2+ overload. Furthermore, after H/R injury MCU silencing decreased necrosis and apoptosis levels by 30% and 50%, respectively, and resulted in reduction in caspases 3/7, 9, and 8 activity. Our findings are consistent with previous conclusions that demonstrate that MCU activity is partly responsible for cellular injury induced by H/R and support the concept of utilizing siRNA‐targeting MCU as a potential therapeutic strategy.
Potential Protective Effects of Bioactive Constituents from Chinese Propolis against Acute Oxidative Stress Induced by Hydrogen Peroxide in Cardiac H9c2 Cells
Authors: Sun Liping , Wang Kai , Xu Xiang , Ge Miaomiao , Chen Yifan , Hu Fuliang
Published: February 2017

Chinese propolis (CP) is known as a health food but its beneficial effects in protecting cardiomyocytes remain elusive. Here, we investigated the effects of CP and its active compounds on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) induced rats cardiomyocytes (H9c2) oxidative injury. Cell viability decreases induced by H2O2 were mitigated by different CP extracts using various solvents. From these active fractions, six active compounds were separated and identified. Among tested isolated compound, the cytoprotective activities of three caffeates, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), benzyl caffeate (BZC), and cinnamyl caffeate (CNC), exerted stronger effects than chrysin, pinobanksin, and 3,4‐dimethoxycinnamic acid (DMCA). These three caffeates also increased H9c2 cellular antioxidant potential, decreased intracellular calcium ion () level, and prevented cell apoptosis. Overall, the cardiovascular protective effects of the CP might be attributed to its caffeates constituents (CAPE, BZC, and CNC) and provide evidence for its usage in complementary and alternative medicine.
Stoicism and Performativity: Identity, Resistance, Performance
Authors: Power Cormac
Published: February 2017

The ancient philosophy of Stoicism, increasingly prevalent in a range of disciplines, is an area of untapped potential for performance studies. It encompasses a body of thought that addresses themes such as identity construction, action and ethics, and the mind-body relationship.
Maud Robart, Student/Teacher: Collaborating with Grotowski
Authors: De Marinis Marco , Vittori Giulia
Published: February 2017

Intermittently from 1977 to 1993, Maud Robart and Jerzy Grotowski worked together through the Polish director’s various post-theatre phases. Archival research reveals a rare professional collaboration that went beyond the relationship Grotowski had with other students. Robart and Grotowski created a reciprocal relationship that allowed them to be simultaneously student and teacher to one another. Exchanging singing and dancing with acting techniques, they crafted a unique performance training.
I Want You! Expanding College Access through Targeted Recruiting Efforts
Authors: Miller Brian J. , Skimmyhorn William L.
Published: February 2017

To complement the existing literature on expanding access to high-quality college education, we investigate the understudied topic of university outreach. Using a field experiment at West Point, we estimate the effectiveness of four university admissions outreach efforts (Admissions Office phone call, application encouragement from a role model, recruiting visit by a university staff member, and an invitation to visit campus) on the probabilities of initiating an application and matriculating. We find that all four methods are effective relative to the control group (a mass e-mail solicitation) at increasing applications but only suggestive evidence for increasing matriculation. We observe a few differences in the relative effectiveness of the methods. We complete a simple cost-effectiveness analysis that suggests the admissions call is the preferred method. This evidence should inform researchers, policy makers, and institutions on optimal outreach efforts and program evaluation in student recruitment.
The Art of the Periodic Table
Authors: Spector Tami I.
Published: February 2017

Captivated by the periodic table’s cultural power as one of the scientific icons, numerous contemporary visual artists transmute the table into a contemplation of its symbols and substance. This article employs a cross-disciplinary model of art criticism that focuses on the specific ways artists illuminate the periodic table’s cataloging innovation, memorable visuality, formal qualities and semiotic resonances.
Are Atheists Implicit Theists?
Authors: Hitzeman Cortney , Wastell Colin
Published: February 2017

The Cognitive Science of Religion commonly advances the view that religious beliefs emerge naturally via specific cognitive biases without cultural influence. From this perspective comes the claim that self-proclaimed atheists harbour traces of supernatural thinking. By exploring the potential influence of the cultural learning mechanism Credibility Enhancing Displays (creds), which affirms beliefs, current disparities between studies involved in priming the implicit theism of atheists, might be reconciled. Eighty-eight university students were randomly assigned to either a religious or control prime condition. A dictator game was completed to obtain an indication of pro-social behaviour (psb). Lifetime theists reported significantly higher religiouscreds exposure levels than lifetime atheists, though not convert atheists. Conversely, lifetime atheists reported significantly lowercreds exposure scores than convert atheists. Convert atheists in the prime condition were significantly more pro-social than lifetime atheists. Additionally, higher scores on thecreds exposure measure equated to higherpsbin the religious condition than the control condition. The results are consistent with the view that supernatural belief formation is an interactive process between both context and content biases, and that in order to accurately test for implicit theism, past personal differences in exposure to religiouscreds should be considered.
Updated list of bumblebees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) from the Spanish Pyrenees with notes on their decline and conservation status
Authors: ORNOSA CONCEPCIÓN , TORRES FÉLIX , RÚA PILAR DE LA
Published: February 2017

The Pyrenees, where Euro-Siberian, Mediterranean and alpine faunas join together, have a large biodiversity of bumblebees. We compiled historical literature records of bumblebee species from the Spanish Pyrenees, and then compared these to contemporary surveys to assess trends in elevational distribution. Twenty-eight species (including thirty-five subspecies) were found in the contemporary survey. Nine species and two subspecies previously present were not detected, some included on the Spanish Red List. With the exception of a few species, a reduction of the altitudinal range and an orophilous tendency was observed at both upper and lower elevational levels, suggesting an upward trend towards better-preserved high areas. Our results reinforce the need to develop new protection programs and more restrictive conservation measures for bumblebee populations, species and their habitats.
Two new eriophyoid mite species (Trombidiformes: Eriophyoidea) from the cocoa tree, and a note on Shevtchenkella biseta (Nalepa)
Authors: RODRIGUES DANIELA F.S. , NAVIA DENISE , OLIVEIRA ANIBAL R. , FERRAGUT FRANCISCO , FLECHTMANN CARLOS H. W.
Published: February 2017

Two new eriophyoid mite species are described from the cocoa tree, Theobroma cacao L. (Malvaceae) – the Diptilomiopidae Davisella trevisani n. sp. Rodrigues, Navia & Oliveira, from Brazil; and the Eriophyidae Tetra theobromae n. sp. Rodrigues, Navia & Oliveira, from Costa Rica. The new Davisella species presents an enlarged subcylindrical tubercle bearing pedipalp genual seta d, a novel structure for eriophyoid mites; its functional morphology was discussed. The new Tetra species is the third in this genus described from plants of the Malvaceae. A closer look at Shevtchenkella biseta (Nalepa), described from the Malvaceae Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L., showed its taxonomic assignment to the Phytoptidae, Sierraphytoptinae and raised a hypothesis on its synonymy.
On the Development of Above-Anvil Cirrus Plumes in Extratropical Convection
Authors: Homeyer Cameron R. , McAuliffe Joel D. , Bedka Kristopher M.
Published: February 2017

Expansive cirrus clouds present above the anvils of extratropical convection have been observed in satellite and aircraft-based imagery for several decades. Despite knowledge of their occurrence, the precise mechanisms and atmospheric conditions leading to their formation and maintenance are not entirely known. Here, the formation of these cirrus “plumes” is examined using a combination of satellite imagery, four-dimensional ground-based radar observations, assimilated atmospheric states from a state-of-the-art reanalysis, and idealized numerical simulations with explicitly resolved convection. Using data from 20 recent events (2013–present), it is found that convective cores of storms with above-anvil cirrus plumes reach altitudes 1–6 km above the tropopause. Thus, it is likely that these clouds represent the injection of cloud material into the lower stratosphere. Comparison of storms with above-anvil cirrus plumes and observed tropopause-penetrating convection without plumes reveals an association with large vector differences between the motion of a storm and the environmental wind in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS), suggesting that gravity wave breaking and/or stretching of the tropopause-penetrating cloud are/is more prevalent in plume-producing storms. A weak relationship is found between plume occurrence and the stability of the lower stratosphere (or tropopause structure), and no relationship is found with the duration of stratospheric penetration or stratospheric humidity. Idealized model simulations of tropopause-penetrating convection with small and large magnitudes of storm-relative wind in the UTLS are found to reproduce the observationally established storm-relative wind relationship and show that frequent gravity wave breaking is the primary mechanism responsible for plume formation.
Sensitivity of Dryline Convection Forecasts to Upstream Forecast Errors for Two Weakly Forced MPEX Cases
Authors: Torn Ryan D. , Romine Glen S. , Galarneau Thomas J.
Published: February 2017

The sensitivity of convective forecasts along the Texas dryline to upstream forecast fields at earlier lead times is evaluated for two consecutive days (27–28 May) characterized by no clear synoptic forcing for convection initiation (CI) during the 2013 Mesoscale Predictability Experiment (MPEX) by applying the ensemble-based sensitivity technique to convection-allowing WRF ensemble forecasts. For both cases, the members with stronger convection are characterized by higher water vapor just above the top of the boundary layer, which is associated with lower convective inhibition (CIN) at the time of CI. Forecast convection is sensitive to the lower-tropospheric water vapor and zonal wind at earlier lead times farther south along the dryline, such that increasing the water vapor and/or making the wind more easterly is associated with more convection. For 28 May, the water vapor along the dryline is also sensitive to the convection that occurs around 0600 UTC, which leads to cold pool–induced surface divergence that subsequently shifts the dryline north or south. Ensemble members that correctly have decreased convection in the Texas Panhandle on 28 May have more accurate forecasts of water vapor and meridional wind with respect to dropwindsondes in the sensitive region 9 h prior to CI compared to members with more extensive convection. Reducing the 0-h water vapor within the sensitive region can suppress convection in members with extensive convection; however, increasing the 0-h water vapor does not lead to more convection in members without convection.
Investigation of thermal and dielectric properties of Fe3O4/high-density polyethylene nanocomposites
Authors: Ahangaran Fatemeh , Hassanzadeh Ali , Nouri Sirous , Esmaeely Neisiany Rasoul
Published: February 2017

High-density polyethylene nanocomposites containing Fe3O4 nanoparticles were prepared by employing melt mixing process. The amorphous Fe3O4 nanoparticles with average size about 50 nm were prepared by the conventional coprecipitation method from iron (ΙΙ and ΙΙΙ). Thermal and dielectric properties of high-density polyethylene and its nanocomposites were investigated via differential scanning calorimetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The crystalline structure of high-density polyethylene and Fe3O4/high-density polyethylene nanocomposite were studied by wide-angle X-ray diffraction, which confirmed orthorhombic crystalline structure. The results of thermal and dielectric analysis indicated that the addition of Fe3O4 nanoparticles to high-density polyethylene matrix leads to decreasing degree of crystallinity and improvement of dielectric constant.
On the science and teaching of emotional intelligence
Authors: Heller Rafael
Published: February 2017

Over the past two decades, researchers have gathered a wealth of evidence showing the critical roles that emotional intelligence plays in education, work, and life. But what does it look like to translate that research into practice? In this interview, Yale University’s Marc Brackett takes stock of recent efforts to help K-12 educators address the emotional side of teaching and learning.
(Re)Kindle
Authors: Small Nancy
Published: February 2017

In an effort to expand the range of ways graduate programs prepare students to be scholars and practitioners in technical and professional communication, this article argues for a fresh direct reengagement with stories, storytelling, and narrative as valuable ways of studying and effectively producing the varied texts of the workplace. The previous call for acknowledging the value of narrative traces back almost 30 years, and story is still being used in a variety of compelling ways, even as an overt regard for narrative has not been sustained. What may be lacking is a systematic way to transform assumptions about stories as informal anecdotes into stories as data for rigorous analysis. David Boje’s antenarrative theory and method offers technical and professional communication graduate students, scholars, and practitioners just such a compelling and timely position from which to consider workplace processes and products.
Social movement unionism in contemporary Japan: Coalitions within and across political boundaries
Authors: Kojima Shinji
Published: February 2017

This article on social movement unionism in Japan examines the particular ways in which labor unions form coalitions when undertaking disputes that concern the dismissal of blue-collar temporary agency workers. The triangular employment arrangement nullified the right of labor unions that represent the temporary agency workers to bargain with the user corporations. Against this predicament, labor unions formed alliances by flexibly negotiating the divisions that exist among labor. Labor unions in Japan are largely grouped under national labor federations and by their ties to political parties. Labor unions formed coalitions within the federation boundaries but also found creative ways to bridge across federation membership in an effort to rebuild its associational power. Civil society groups served as a glue that drew in unions across national federation memberships.
The contributions of family care-givers at end of life: A national post-bereavement census survey of cancer carers’ hours of care and expenditures
Authors: Rowland Christine , Hanratty Barbara , Pilling Mark , van den Berg Bernard , Grande Gunn
Published: February 2017

Background:

Family members provide vital care at end of life, enabling patients to remain at home. Such informal care contributes significantly to the economy while supporting patients’ preferences and government policy. However, the value of care-givers’ contributions is often underestimated or overlooked in evaluations. Without information on the activities and expenditures involved in informal care-giving, it is impossible to provide an accurate assessment of carers’ contribution to end-of-life care.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to investigate the contributions and expenditure of informal, family care-giving in end-of-life cancer care.

Design:

A national census survey of English cancer carers was conducted. Survey packs were mailed to 5271 people who registered the death of a relative to cancer during 1–16 May 2015. Data were collected on decedents’ health and situation, care support given, financial expenditure resulting from care, carer well-being and general background information.

Results:

In all, 1504 completed surveys were returned (28.5%). Over 90% of respondents reported spending time on care-giving in the last 3 months of the decedent’s life, contributing a median 69 h 30 min of care-giving each week. Those who reported details of expenditure (72.5%) spent a median £370 in the last 3 months of the decedent’s life.

Conclusion:

Carers contribute a great deal of time and money for day-to-day support and care of patients. This study has yielded a unique, population-level data set of end-of-life care-giving and future analyses will provide estimates of the economic value of family care-givers’ contributions.
Treatment with belimumab in systemic lupus erythematosus does not impair antibody response to 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
Authors: Nagel J , Saxne T , Geborek P , Bengtsson A A , Jacobsen S , Svaerke Joergensen C , Nilsson J-Å , Skattum L , Jönsen A , Kapetanovic M C
Published: February 2017

Background/purpose

The objective of this study was to explore the impact of systemic lupus erythematosus and belimumab given in addition to standard of care therapy on 13-valent conjugated pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13) response.

Methods

Forty-seven systemic lupus erythematosus patients and 21 healthy controls were immunized with a single dose of 13-valent conjugated pneumococcal vaccine. Forty systemic lupus erythematosus patients were treated with traditional disease-modifying anti rheumatic drugs, 11 of those received belimumab in addition, and 32 patients were treated with concomitant prednisolone. Quantification of serotype specific IgG levels to 12 pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides was performed in serum taken before and four to six weeks after vaccination using multiplex fluorescent microsphere immunoassay. IgG levels against serotypes 23F and 6B were also analyzed using standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Opsonophagocytic assay was performed on serotype 23F to evaluate the functionality of the antibodies. Pre- and post-vaccination log transformed antibody levels were compared to determine the impact of systemic lupus erythematosus diagnosis and different treatments on antibody response.

Results

Systemic lupus erythematosus patients as a group showed lower post-vaccination antibody levels and lower fold increase of antibody levels after vaccination compared to controls ( p = 0.02 and p = 0.009, respectively). Systemic lupus erythematosus patients treated with belimumab in addition to standard of care therapy or with only hydroxychloroquine did not differ compared to controls, whereas the other treatment groups had significantly lower fold increase of post-vaccination antibody levels. Higher age was associated with lower post-vaccination antibody levels among systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

Conclusion

Belimumab given in addition to traditional disease-modifying anti rheumatic drugs or prednisolone did not further impair antibody response to 13-valent conjugated pneumococcal vaccine.
Book Review: Sameer Dua, Declaring Breakdowns: Powerfully creating a future that matters, through 6 simple steps
Authors: Chatterjee Rajashri
Published: February 2017

Sameer Dua, Declaring Breakdowns: Powerfully creating a future that matters, through 6 simple steps. New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2016, 221 pp., ₹ 395 (ISBN: 978-93-515-0983-7) (Paperback)
Structural Validity of Holland’s Circumplex Model of Vocational Personality Types in Africa
Authors: Morgan Brandon , de Bruin Gideon P.
Published: February 2017

This study investigated the construct (structural) validity of Holland’s circumplex model of vocational personality types in Africa. Data were obtained on the general occupational themes of the Strong Interest Inventory for 28 countries. These countries were classified into three different geographic regions (Eastern Africa, Southern Africa, and Western Africa). The randomization test and circumplex covariance structure modeling were used to investigate the fit of Holland’s circumplex model across these regions. Results provide preliminary evidence for the generalizability of Holland’s model in the African context. Inspection of the angular locations of the six vocational personality types in two-dimensional space indicated slight disordering of the types in the Eastern Africa region and the correct ordering of the types in the Southern and Western African regions. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Epidemiology of Organophosphate Poisoning in the Tshwane District of South Africa
Authors: Razwiedani LL , Rautenbach PGD
Published: February 2017

Background:

Organophosphate poisoning is a major public health problem in South Africa. Individuals get exposed to organophosphate in both the domestic and industrial spheres.

Method:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using retrospective, secondary data of organophosphate poisoning cases over a 3-year period, reported at the Tshwane District surveillance office. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel, and Epi Info version 7 was used for descriptive statistics.

Results:

A total of 207 cases were reported with ages ranging from 10 months to 59 years. Most of the cases were men (58.9%). Intentional poisoning accounted for 51% of cases. Unintentional poisoning accounted for 21.7% of cases, and 26.5% of cases had unknown circumstances of poisoning. A significant number (50.2%) of intentional poisonings were suicide related. Nonsuicidal cases accounted for 47.4% of cases, and deliberate unlawful poisoning accounted for 2.4% of cases. The mortality rate for the whole group was 3.4%.

Conclusions:

Improvement in data collection on organophosphate poisoning is essential to properly measure the burden of the problem. More effective regulatory controls for pesticide use are needed in South Africa.
Treatment of an internal carotid artery aneurysm with a flow diverter through a double lumen balloon catheter
Authors: Amorim José M , Rosati Santiago , Agid Ronit , Pereira Vítor Mendes , Krings Timo
Published: February 2017

Background

Double lumen balloon catheters (DLBCs) are currently used in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms, especially when involving balloon or stent-assisted coiling. The existing DLBCs allow the delivery of self-expandable stents but do not offer the possibility to deploy flow-diverters. Despite the increasing use and success of flow-diverters, there have been numerous reports of procedural complications such as early in-stent thrombosis or delayed distal embolization. It seems that these complications can be avoided by correct stent positioning and adequate wall apposition, achieved either by manoeuvres with the microguidewire and/or microcatheter or by performing balloon angioplasty following an exchange guidewire manoeuvre.

Objective

Report the use of a new DLBC able to deliver a flow-diverter.

Methods

A 41-year-old woman presented to our hospital with binocular horizontal diplopia for two weeks and reduced visual acuity. A left internal carotid artery aneurysm involving the cavernous and ophthalmic segments was found, with a maximum height of 19 mm and a broad 8 mm neck. It presented extra- and intra-dural components and the parent vessel was significantly narrowed. A decision was made to perform endovascular treatment of the aneurysm with placement of a flow diverter through a DLBC.

Results

Patency and adequate expansion of the flow diverter with evident intra-aneurysmal contrast stasis was observed in the final angiogram. No peri-procedural complications were observed.

Conclusion

This is a technical note demonstrating the feasibility of a new device to deploy a flow diverter, aiming to improve wall apposition and stent configuration without the need of additional devices or exchange manoeuvres.
The impact of relative athlete characteristics on the drag reductions caused by drafting when cycling in a velodrome
Authors: Fitton Billy , Caddy Oliver , Symons Digby
Published: February 2017

In competitive road and velodrome cycling, aerodynamic drag may account for more than 90% of an individual’s resistance to motion. In multiple rider events, drafting (cycling behind another athlete) can result in drag reductions for both the leading and trailing cyclists. In team events, these drag reductions can be controlled to some degree and thus, a greater understanding may benefit team performance. To investigate this, six elite female cyclists took part in a series of individual tests and 11 different team tests throughout which the sequence of the athletes was varied. The tests took place in Manchester Velodrome and were designed to mimic the team pursuit cycling event. During the experiments, the drag area of each cyclist was measured and the drag reductions were quantified. Individual drag area was found to correlate strongly with rider mass and stature but no other measured physical characteristics. The average drag reductions in positions 1–4 in the team pursuit were 4%, 42%, 48% and 47%, respectively. The variation in drag reductions correlates most strongly with relative rider mass; for example, a light cyclist following a heavy cyclist may experience 6% less drag than if the roles were reversed. Empirical models have been developed from the results which predict the drag reductions that athletes will experience from drafting based on the cyclists’ relative mass.
Mobile Myanmar: The development of a mobile app culture in Yangon
Authors: Leong Lorian
Published: February 2017

This article looks at the unfolding smartphone app adoption culture in Yangon, Myanmar with insights from 18 informant interviews, 3 informal interviews, and nonparticipant observation. Through the domestication framework and actor-network theory, findings showed a unique overlay of actors influencing acquisition and adoption of apps, including: dependent users, “warm-gatekeepers,” mobile phone shops, and Facebook. Mediators such as Android skins, language skills, and other factors (mobile data pricing and network infrastructure) impact the relationships between these actors. Together, the impact of mediators on actor relationships highlighted a filtered means many users adopted to acquire new apps, a “two-step access” model of acquisition. This article traces how users acquire apps given this network of actors, following their journey and how they overcome challenges and limitations in their social and technological landscape.
Geographic dissemination of endovascular stroke thrombectomy in Catalonia within the 2011–2015 period
Authors: Abilleira Sònia , Tebé Cristian , de la Ossa Natalia Pérez , Ribó Marc , Cardona Pere , Urra Xabier , Giralt-Steinhauer Eva , Cánovas David , Camps-Renom Pol , Gallofré Miquel ,   for the Cat-SCR Consortium
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Endovascular thrombectomy was recently established as a new standard of care in acute ischemic stroke patients with large artery occlusions. Using small area health statistics, we sought to assess dissemination of endovascular thrombectomy in Catalonia throughout the period 2011–2015.

Patients and methods

We used registry data to identify all endovascular thrombectomies for acute ischemic stroke performed in Catalonia within the study period. The SONIIA registry is a government-mandated, population-based and externally audited data base that includes all reperfusion therapies for acute ischemic stroke. We linked endovascular thrombectomy cases identified in the registry with the Central Registry of the Catalan Public Health Insurance to obtain the primary care service area of residence for each treated patient, age and sex. We calculated age-sex standardized endovascular thrombectomy rates over time according to different territorial segmentation patterns (metropolitan/provincial rings and primary care service areas).

Results

Region-wide age-sex standardized endovascular thrombectomy rates increased significantly from 3.9 × 100,000 (95% confidence interval: 3.4–4.4) in 2011 to 6.8 × 100,000 (95% confidence interval: 6.2–7.6) in 2015. Such increase occurred in inner and outer metropolitan rings as well as provinces although highest endovascular thrombectomy rates were persistently seen in the inner metropolitan area. Changes in endovascular thrombectomy access across primary care service areas over time were more subtle, but there was a rather generalized increase of standardized endovascular thrombectomy rates.

Discussion

This study demonstrates temporal and territorial dissemination of access to endovascular thrombectomy in Catalonia over a 5-year period although variation remains at the completion of the study.

Conclusion

Mapping of endovascular thrombectomy is essential to assess equity and propose actions for access dissemination.
Wavefield simulation of 3D borehole dipole radiation
Authors: Li Junxiao , Innanen Kristopher A. , Tao Guo , Zhang Kuo , Lines Laurence
Published: February 2017

Reflections in acoustic borehole-logging data can be used to image near-borehole geologic structures, using either monopole or dipole measurements, the latter of which resolve azimuthal ambiguities. Dipole methods in particular can characterize small and subtle fractures in reservoir environments. Accurate tools for wavefield simulation are required to account for wave modes in and out of the borehole, and for the receiver responses to these modes. We have evaluated a 3D elastic staggered-grid finite-difference method for isotropic and anisotropic media in the context of the borehole acoustic imaging problem. Based on the convolutional perfectly matched layer and the multiaxial perfectly matched layer schemes, a hybrid perfectly matched layer method was developed and implemented to reduce artificial boundary reflections. The superiority of this hybrid perfectly matched layer beyond the convolutional perfectly matched layer and the multiaxial perfectly matched layer was proven based on numerical benchmarks in isotropic and anisotropic media. Numerical simulation of radiation, reflection, and multipole reception of elastic waves, excited by a dipole source, was carried out. To optimize azimuthal detection, the relationships between S-wave polarization as well as source-receiver offset and source-reflector angle was analyzed. Results indicated that the S-S reflection is most sensitive to the angle between the incident ray and the normal to the reflector. Its maximum amplitude occurs as the incident angle reaches its critical value, a fact that can be used to calculate the total propagation distance of the S-S wave. The critical angle as well as the SH-wave velocities of geologic structures outside the borehole can thus be determined.
An introduction to hydrocephalus: types, treatments and management
Authors: Thompson Simon D
Published: February 2017

Hydrocephalus is one of the most common neurosurgical conditions or complications. Common treatment options have not changed in decades. However, recent technological advances and improvement in infection rates and outcomes have caused clinicians to rethink attitudes and understanding towards hydrocephalus and patient management.

This article is the introduction to a series in which different types of hydrocephalus will be discussed, including various treatment options and recent technological advances that are improving outcomes and diagnostic techniques.
Case report on surgical management of a pericardial effusion and subsequent pericardectomy
Authors: McGaughey Laura
Published: February 2017

A 7-year-old, neutered, female Labrador Retriever was admitted as an emergency referral on the diagnosis of a recurrent pericardial effusion. Following a pericardiocentesis, a subtotal pericardectomy was consequently performed. Nursing care for this patient was focused on the post-operative monitoring including the maintenance of the thoracostomy tube, indwelling urinary catheter, arterial catheter and continual assessment of the analgesia protocol. The patient subsequently recovered well and was discharged 4 days post operation.
Stop beating the donkey! A fresh interpretation of conditional donkey sentences.
Authors: Frápolli María José , San Ginés Aránzazu
Published: February 2017

We propose a new approach to conditional donkey sentences that allows us to face successfully the often called proportion problem. The main ingredients of the proposal are van Benthem's generalized quantifier approach to conditionals (van Benthem, 1984), and Barwise's situation semantics (Barwise, 1989). We present some experimental data supporting our proposal.
Organization of International Medical Congresses as Possibility for Extending Croatian Tourist Offer
Authors: Pekez-Pavliško Tanja , Vrdoljak Nina , Aleksić Anja
Published: February 2017

Organization of international medical congresses is a perfect example of multidisciplinary cooperation with professional medical associations and Medical schools on one side and professional congress organizers on the other. Medical congresses are perhaps most frequent congresses in the world. Organization of medical congresses can be achieved in a number of ways: Organizers can be local professional associations or Medical schools, international professional associations and international professional congress organizers. To be nominated for organization of a congress, successful cooperation of medical professionals is needed, especially doctors and professional congress organizers. Success largely depends on knowledge of the availability of conference halls, available accommodations in the vicinity of the congress halls, ease of access to the congress destination, expectancies of possible candidates who will attend in connection to the congress destination, lobbying for nomination for organization of a congress. This article will analyze availability of conference halls in Croatia, accommodation capacities, transport possibilities. For the needs of this article, pilot questionnaire was constructed about demands of possible participants and their preferable destinations to be visited. Statistical analysis of Medical congresses in Europe is also shown according to geographical spreading. Concluding the article, we show that better education of medical staff about the possibilities of professional congress organizing are very important, as well as sharing of the experiences from big congresses among the medical professional in the field of medical congress organization. With multidisciplinary approach of all participants in organization of the congress (Ministry of Tourism, Croatian Tourist Association, Croatian Associations of professionals in congress tourism, hotels, medical professionals) Croatia could be much better recognized as destination for organizing medical congresses.
Identifying Combination of Friction Stir Welding Parameters to Maximize Strength of Lap Joints of AA2014-T6 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Rajendrana C. , Srinivasan K. , Balasubramanian V. , Balaji H. , Selvaraj P.
Published: February 2017

AA2014 aluminum alloy (Al-Cu alloy) has been widely utilized in fabrication of lightweight structures like aircraft structures, demanding high strength to weight ratio and good corrosion resistance. The fusion welding of these alloys will lead to solidification problems such as hot cracking. Friction stir welding is a new solid state welding process, in which the material being welded does not melt and recast. Lot of research works have been carried out by many researchers to optimize process parameters and establish empirical relationships to predict tensile strength of friction stir welded butt joints of aluminum alloys. However, very few investigations have been carried out on friction stir welded lap joints of aluminum alloys. Hence, in this investigation, an attempt has been made to optimize friction stir lap welding (FSLW) parameters to attain maximum tensile strength using statistical tools such as design of experiment (DoE), analysis of variance (ANOVA), response graph and contour plots. By this method, it is found that maximum tensile shear fracture load of 12.76 kN can be achieved if a joint is made using tool rotational speed of 900 rpm, welding speed of 110 mm/min, tool shoulder diameter of 12 mm and tool tilt angle of 1.5°.
Case Study of Standard Multi-Storey Residential Building Owners and Tenants’ Perception of Building Technical Conditions and Renovation Issues
Authors: Šnīdere Laimdota , Geipele Ineta , Stāmure Iveta
Published: February 2017

The majority of residents in Latvia live in standard multi-storey residential buildings, which were constructed between 1950 and 1992. At present, these buildings are obsolete; besides, in the course of construction process the durability and reliability levels were planned to be insufficient. In Riga, residents of standard multi-storey residential buildings do not support building renovation and are passive, despite the availability of the EU and government support as well as co-financing of building renovation projects. The majority of the respondents assume that the apartment is the most significant asset of the family. Moreover, 34 % - 69 % of the participants have renovated their apartment and save resources within their apartment boundaries. Only some respondents evaluate the technical condition of communal property, but most respondents do not have information concerning resource supply and energy accounting as well as are not interested in resource saving possibilities within the building in general, and do not understand the importance of technical maintenance of the building.
Harmonization protocols for TSH immunoassays: a multicenter study in Italy
Authors: Clerico Aldo , Ripoli Andrea , Fortunato Antonio , Alfano Antonio , Carrozza Cinzia , Correale Mario , Dittadi Ruggero , Gessoni Gianluca , Migliardi Marco , Rizzardi Sara , Prontera Concetta , Masotti Silvia , Zucchelli Giancarlo , Guiotto Cristina , Iacovazzi Palma Aurelia , Iervasi Giorgio
Published: February 2017

Background:

Systematic difference between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) immunoassays may produce misleading interpretation when samples of the same patients are measured with different methods. The study aims were to evaluate whether systematic differences are present among TSH immunoassays, and whether it is possible to obtain a better harmonization among TSH methods using results obtained in external quality assessment (EQA) schemes.

Methods:

Seven Italian clinical laboratories measured TSH in 745 serum samples of healthy subjects and patients with thyroid disorders. These samples were also re-measured by two reference laboratories of the study with the six TSH immunoassays most popular in Italy after 2 months of storage at −80 °C. Moreover, these data were compared to 53,823 TSH measurements, obtained by laboratories participant to 2012–2015 EQA annual cycles in 72 quality control samples (TSH concentrations from about 0.1 mIU/L to 18.0 mIU/L). TSH concentrations were recalibrated using a mathematical approach based on the principal component analysis (PCA).

Results:

Systematic differences were found between the most popular commercially available TSH immunoassays. TSH concentrations measured by the clinical laboratories were very closely correlated to those measured with the same method by reference laboratories after 2 months of storage at −80 °C. After recalibration using the PCA approach the variation of TSH values significantly decreased from a median pre-calibration value of 13.53% (10.79%–16.53%) to 9.63% (6.90%–13.21%) after recalibration.

Conclusions:

Our data suggest that EQA schemes are useful to improve harmonization among TSH immunoassays and also to produce some mathematical formulas, which can be used by clinicians to better compare TSH values measured with different methods.
Investigating the influence of hydrogen on stress corrosion cracking of 2205 duplex stainless steel in sulfuric acid by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Zheng Chuanbo , Yi Guo
Published: February 2017

As a nondestructive and sensitive method, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) can be used to investigate the passivation and breakdown of passive films on steel. In this study, EIS, combined with slow strain rate test and scanning electron microscopy, was employed to study the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behavior of 2205 duplex stainless steel in 0.5 m sulfuric acid solution under hydrogen-charging conditions. Results showed that the corrosion resistance of passive film on the hydrogen-charged specimen was lower than that for the specimen with no hydrogen charge. Hydrogen-induced cracking was evident after the specimens had been charged for 24 h. The phase shift in EIS, calculated from frequencies between 0.1 and 10 Hz, could be used to monitor the SCC process.
Mesearch and the Gothic Imagination
Authors: Raw Laurence
Published: February 2017

Based on a transformational moment in 2013, this piece calls for a revision in research methods, with the attention focused less on critical objects and more on one’s personal response to them. This technique of mesearch, with the self placed at the center of one’s agenda, offers unique opportunities for self-analysis through redefining one’s relationship to literature. The point is exemplified through a case-study of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
Mixed-mode I/III fracture toughness of polymer matrix composites toughened with waste particles
Authors: Alsaadi Mohamad , Erkliğ Ahmet , Bulut Mehmet
Published: February 2017

Fracture toughness of particle-filled polymer composite beams with different particle content for varying of crack inclination angles was investigated in mode I and mode III loading conditions. The beams were tested using three-point bending test with crack inclination angles of 30°, 45°, 75°, and 90°. Sewage sludge ash (SSA), fly ash (FA), and silicon carbide (SiC) microparticles were used as toughening fillers with 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% contents of the total weight of the polymer composites. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs showed that a good indication was observed for dispersion of FA, SSA, and SiC particles within the polymer matrix. The critical crack tip stress intensity factors K
Ic (crack angle 90°) and K
IIIc, and the critical strain energy release rates G
Ic and G
IIIc were calculated and their results were compared. The mode I and mode III fracture toughness of the particulate polyester composite were improved by addition of particulate fillers. The maximum values of fracture toughness mode I (K
Ic and G
Ic) and mode III (K
IIIc and G
IIIc) were recorded at particle content of 5 wt% polymer composites.
On the Sum of Powers of Two k-Fibonacci Numbers which Belongs to the Sequence of k-Lucas Numbers
Authors: Trojovský Pavel
Published: February 2017

Let k ≥ 1 and denote (Fk,n
)
n≥

0, the k-Fibonacci sequence whose terms satisfy the recurrence relation Fk,n
= kFk,n−

1 +Fk,n−

2, with initial conditions Fk,

0 = 0 and Fk,

1 = 1. In the same way, the k-Lucas sequence (Lk,n
)
n≥

0 is defined by satisfying the same recurrence relation with initial values Lk,

0 = 2 and Lk,

1 = k. These sequences were introduced by Falcon and Plaza, who showed many of their properties, too. In particular, they proved that Fk,n

+1 + Fk,n−

1 = Lk,n
, for all k ≥ 1 and n ≥ 0. In this paper, we shall prove that if k ≥ 1 and

F

k
,
n
+
1

s

+

F

k
,
n
−
1

s

∈

(

L

k
,
m

)

m
≥
1

$F_{k,n + 1}^s + F_{k,n - 1}^s \in \left( {L_{k,m} } \right)_{m \ge 1} $

for infinitely many positive integers n, then s =1.
Support for Marijuana (Cannabis) Legalization: Untangling Age, Period, and Cohort Effects
Authors: Campbell William , Twenge Jean , Carter Nathan
Published: February 2017

In three large, nationally representative surveys of U.S. 12th graders, college students, and adults (N = 9 million) conducted 1968–2015, Americans became significantly more supportive of legal marijuana (cannabis) starting in the mid-1980’s. Hierarchical models using age-period-cohort analysis on the adult (General Social Survey) sample showed that the increased support for legalization is primarily a time period effect rather than generational or age effect; thus, Americans of all ages became more supportive of legal marijuana. Among 12th graders, support for marijuana legalization was closely linked to perceptions of marijuana safety.