bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fully automated convolutional neural network-based affine algorithm improves liver registration and lesion co-localization on hepatobiliary phase T1-weighted MR images
Authors: Hasenstab Kyle A. , Cunha Guilherme Moura , Higaki Atsushi , Ichikawa Shintaro , Wang Kang , Delgado Timo , Brunsing Ryan L. , Schlein Alexandra , Bittencourt Leornado Kayat , Schwartzman Armin , Fowler Katie J. , Hsiao Albert , Sirlin Claude B.
Published: October 2019

Background

Liver alignment between series/exams is challenged by dynamic morphology or variability in patient positioning or motion. Image registration can improve image interpretation and lesion co-localization. We assessed the performance of a convolutional neural network algorithm to register cross-sectional liver imaging series and compared its performance to manual image registration.

Methods

Three hundred fourteen patients, including internal and external datasets, who underwent gadoxetate disodium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for clinical care from 2011 to 2018, were retrospectively selected. Automated registration was applied to all 2,663 within-patient series pairs derived from these datasets. Additionally, 100 within-patient series pairs from the internal dataset were independently manually registered by expert readers. Liver overlap, image correlation, and intra-observation distances for manual versus automated registrations were compared using paired t tests. Influence of patient demographics, imaging characteristics, and liver uptake function was evaluated using univariate and multivariate mixed models.

Results

Compared to the manual, automated registration produced significantly lower intra-observation distance (p < 0.001) and higher liver overlap and image correlation (p < 0.001). Intra-exam automated registration achieved 0.88 mean liver overlap and 0.44 mean image correlation for the internal dataset and 0.91 and 0.41, respectively, for the external dataset. For inter-exam registration, mean overlap was 0.81 and image correlation 0.41. Older age, female sex, greater inter-series time interval, differing uptake, and greater voxel size differences independently reduced automated registration performance (p ≤ 0.020).

Conclusion

A fully automated algorithm accurately registered the liver within and between examinations, yielding better liver and focal observation co-localization compared to manual registration.
What Do Economists Have to Say about the Clean Air Act 50 Years after the Establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency?
Authors: Currie Janet , Walker Reed
Published: October 2019

Air quality in the United States has improved dramatically over the past 50 years in large part due to the introduction of the Clean Air Act and the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency to enforce it. This article is a reflection on the 50-year anniversary of the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency, describing what economic research says about the ways in which the Clean Air Act has shaped our society—in terms of costs, benefits, and important distributional concerns. We conclude with a discussion of how recent changes to both policy and technology present new opportunities for researchers in this area.
Gibt es einen wissenschaftlichen Konsens zur Wirtschaftlichkeit nachhaltiger Immobilien?
Authors: Fuerst Franz , Dalton Ben
Published: October 2019

Es besteht ein klarer wissenschaftlicher und gesellschaftlicher Konsens über die Schlüsselrolle, die Gebäuden und der gebauten Umwelt bei der Reduzierung von Treibhausgasemissionen und Ressourcenverbrauch zukommt. Unklar ist jedoch, inwieweit Umweltziele und ökonomische Rentabilität im Immobilienbereich miteinander einhergehen. Dieser Artikel analysiert 42 internationale Studien zur Rentabilitaet von Immobilien mit Nachhaltigkeitszertifikaten anhand einer Metaanalyse und kommt zu dem Schluss, dass diese Gebäude zumindest ein moderater Preis- und Mietpraemium erzielen. Obwohl es Hinweise darauf gibt, dass Studien, die positive Ergebnisse berichten, mit höherer Wahrscheinlichkeit veröffentlicht wurden, liefern diese Studien dennoch einen Anhhaltspunkt dafür, dass nachhaltiges Bauen und Sanieren vom Markt als wirtschaftlich sinnvoll erkannt und entsprechend bepreist wird. Dabei ist allerdings zu bedenken, dass der wirtschaftliche Erfolg umweltgerechter Immobilieninvestments unter anderem auch davon abhängt, inwieweit Marktmechanismen etabliert werden können, die ein effiziente Verteilung von Risiko und Rendite ermöglichen, wie zum Beispiel grüne Mietverträge oder Energiespar-Contracting.
Classic Media Review Essay
Authors: Thomas Marisa
Published: October 2019

After Sex, Eric Amadio (2007) USA: NALA Films and Supino Pictures
Maxillary Growth Evaluation Of Patients With Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip And Palate After Two Flap Palatoplasty With Honey Oral Drops
Authors: Kreshanti Prasetyanugraheni , Handayani Siti , Fortuna Forry , Pancawati Julieta , Susanto Amila Jeni , Wangge Grace , Indania Alita
Published: October 2019

Background : Honey given as oral drops significantly precipitate epithelialization of the lateral palatal defects post two-flap palatoplasty by 2.1 times. Honey is believed to reduce wound contraction, scar formation, and would contribute as an important factor that will result in a satisfactory maxillary growth. The aim of this study is to evaluate maxillary growth as the long-term effect of rapid epithelialization of the palates treated by honey oral drops.

Method : This is a case control study consisting of 2 groups; comparing maxillary growth of the UCCLP patients that were and were not given honey as oral drops following their two-flap palatoplasty in 2011-2012. The cephalometric measurements were recorded and the dental cast are evaluated using GOSLON Yardstick method.Result : This study included a total of 20 patients. Goslon Yardstick type IV are the most frequent GOSLON on both groups (40%) with moderate inter-rater reliability between examiner 1-2 and 2-3 (kappa; 0.583 and 0.512) and substantial between examiner 1-3 (kappa 0.716). Forty-percent of SNA angle in the honey group were considered as normal, while only 20% normal SNA angle were found in the control group.Conclusion: Honey oral drops following two-flap palatoplasty resulted in satisfactory SNA angle. As the completion of maxillary growth occurs at the age of 20, the results of this study would only serve as a preliminary report. Other measures to support maxillary growth should also be taken into account. Further studies are warranted to discover innovations in surgical technique that may be a major contributing factor in maxillary growth.

Keywords: Maxillary growth, Two Flap Palatoplasty, honey
Association Between Serum Albumin And The Success Of Fluid Resuscitation In Children Hospitalizen In Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital Burn Center
Authors: Dewi Rismala , Kaltha Karina , Wardhana Aditya , Yanuarso Piprim B.
Published: October 2019

Background : Burn injury has a great impact on mortality and morbidity in children. Significant loss of albumin (hypoalbuminemia) in burn patient often leads to serious complications. However, it is still unclear whether serum albumin has a role in the success of fluid resuscitation in children with burn injury.

Method : This is a retrospective cohort study based on medical record of children hospitalized with burn injury at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital Burn Centre from January 2012-March 2018. The subjects collected with the total sampling method.

Result : Most burn injury happen because of scalds, and have grade 2 burn injury with PELOD score<10. Almost all subjects was succesfully resuscitated in the first 24 hour (95,1%). No association was found between the success of fluid resuscitation with either serum albumin [RR 1,175(95%CI 0,3-4,4) p=0,812], or with ureum, creatinin, lactate level, weight and the degree/extent of the burn injury.

Conclusion: The success rate of fluid resuscitation in pediatric burn injury was quite high in Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital Burn Centre. No association was found between serum albumin and the success of fluid resuscitation during the first 24 hour period.

Keywords: albumin, burn, pediatric, resuscitation
Progressive Muscular Dystrophy (Duchenne Type) (Case Report)
Authors: Winarno Soelatin , Indrawarman Indrawarman , Waloejo Sabdo , Kristianti Lydia
Published: October 2019

Clinical findings of two brothers suffering from progressive muscular dystrophy pseudohypertrophic type according to Duchenne are reported. Literatures dealing with its clinical classification, biochemical disturbances, hypotheses of the pathogenesis, management of treatment, mode of action of A.T.P. and the pedigree have been briefly reported.

Progressive Muscular Dystrophy is a progressive disease affecting voluntary muscles; It is characterized by a decreased strength in the affected muscles with rapid or slow gradual progression. About 45% of the patients gave a history that at least another member of the family is affected by the disease. Pseudohypertrophic form (Duchenne type) is usually inherited as a recessive factor, often sexlinked.
Interdisciplinary Orthodontic and Surgical Management of Class III Malocclusion in Adult Patients
Authors: Szuhanek Camelia , Dumitrescu Stefania , Paraschivescu Eduard , Nagib Riham
Published: October 2019

The treatment of class III malocclusion differs depending on the age of the patient. In adult patients, alternatives include either orthodontic dentoalveolar compensation treatment or a combined ortho-surgical approach. The aim of this paper is to present the orthodontic and surgical treatment of a 24 year old adult patient with increased anterior face height, a class III skeletal pattern and mandibular asymetry. Previous orthodontic treatment with removable appliances obtained a 1 mm overbite and overjet. Intraorally, class III molar relationship was observed, proclined upper incisors, retroclined lower incisors and a deviated lower midline. The main complaint was facial esthetics which required surgical intevention. After pre-surgical orthodontic preparation the maxilla was repositioned by a Le Fort I osteotomy and the mandible was set back using the Obwegeser-Dal Pont method. Final assesment revealed both functional and esthetic dentofacial results. A combination of orthodontic treatment and orthognathic surgery is often required in adult patients with dental malocclusion and skeletal discrepancies.
Development and Validation of a Nomogram for Early Detection of Malignant Gallbladder Lesions
Authors: Chen Mingyu , Cao Jiasheng , Bai Yang , Tong Chenhao , Lin Jian , Jindal Vishal , Barchi Leandro Cardoso , Nadalin Silvio , Yang Sherry X. , Pesce Antonio , Panaro Fabrizio , Ariche Arie , Kai Keita , Memeo Riccardo , Bekaii-Saab Tanios , Cai Xiujun ,   Written on behalf of the AME Gallbladder Cancer Collaborative Group
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVES:

Preoperative decision-making for differentiating malignant from benign lesions in the gallbladder remains challenging. We aimed to create a diagnostic nomogram to identify gallbladder cancer (GBC), especially for incidental GBC (IGBC), before surgical resection.

METHODS:

A total of 587 consecutive patients with pathologically confirmed gallbladder lesions from a hospital were randomly assigned to a training cohort (70%) and an internal validation cohort (30%), with 287 patients from other centers as an external validation cohort. Radiological features were developed by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression model. Significant radiological features and independent clinical factors, identified by multivariate analyses, were used to construct a nomogram.

RESULTS:

A diagnostic nomogram was established by age, CA19.9, and 6 radiological features. The values of area under the curve in the internal and external validation cohorts were up to 0.91 and 0.89, respectively. The calibration curves for probability of GBC showed optimal agreement between nomogram prediction and actual observation. Compared with previous methods, it demonstrated superior sensitivity (91.5%) and accuracy (85.1%) in the diagnosis of GBC. The accuracy using the nomogram was significantly higher in GBC groups compared with that by radiologists in the training cohort (P < 0.001) and similarly in each cohort. Notably, most of the IGBC, which were misdiagnosed as benign lesions, were successfully identified using this nomogram.

DISCUSSION:

A novel nomogram provides a powerful tool for detecting the presence of cancer in gallbladder masses, with an increase in accuracy and sensitivity. It demonstrates an unprecedented potential for IGBC identification.
Identification of a Novel Candidate Gene for Serrated Polyposis Syndrome Germline Predisposition by Performing Linkage Analysis Combined With Whole-Exome Sequencing
Authors: Toma Claudio , Díaz-Gay Marcos , Soares de Lima Yasmin , Arnau-Collell Coral , Franch-Expósito Sebastià , Muñoz Jenifer , Overs Bronwyn , Bonjoch Laia , Carballal Sabela , Ocaña Teresa , Cuatrecasas Miriam , Díaz de Bustamante Aránzazu , Castells Antoni , Bujanda Luis , Cubiella Joaquín , Balaguer Francesc , Rodríguez-Alcalde Daniel , Fullerton Janice M. , Castellví-Bel Sergi
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVES:

Serrated polyposis syndrome (SPS) is a complex disorder with a high risk of colorectal cancer for which the germline factors remain largely unknown. Here, we combined whole-exome sequencing (WES) and linkage studies in families with multiple members affected by SPS to identify candidate genes harboring rare variants with higher penetrance effects.

METHODS:

Thirty-nine affected subjects from 16 extended SPS families underwent WES. Genome-wide linkage analysis was performed under linear and exponential models. The contribution of rare coding variants selected to be highly pathogenic was assessed using the gene-based segregation test.

RESULTS:

A significant linkage peak was identified on chromosome 3p25.2-p22.3 (maxSNP = rs2293787; LODlinear = 2.311, LODexp = 2.11), which logarithm of the odds (LOD) score increased after fine mapping for the same marker (maxSNP = rs2293787; LODlinear = 2.4, LODexp = 2.25). This linkage signal was replicated in 10 independent sets of random markers from this locus. To assess the contribution of rare variants predicted to be pathogenic, we performed a family-based segregation test with 11 rare variants predicted to be deleterious from 10 genes under the linkage intervals. This analysis showed significant segregation of rare variants with SPS in CAPT7, TMEM43, NGLY1, and FBLN2 genes (weighted P value > 0.007).

DISCUSSION:

Protein network analysis suggested FBLN2 as the most plausible candidate genes for germline SPS predisposition. Etiologic rare variants implicated in disease predisposition may be identified by combining traditional linkage with WES data. This powerful approach was effective for the identification of a new candidate gene for hereditary SPS.
Semiautomatically Register MMS LiDAR Points and Panoramic Image Sequence Using Road Lamp and Lane
Authors: Zhu Ningning , Jia Yonghong , Huang Xia
Published: October 2019

We propose using the feature points of road lamp and lane to register mobile mapping system (MMS) LiDAR points and panoramic image sequence. Road lamp and lane are the common sobjects on roads; the spatial distributions are regular, and thus our registration method has wide applicability
and high precision. First, the road lamp and lane were extracted from the LiDAR points by horizontal grid and reflectance intensity and then by optimizing the endpoints as the feature points of road lamp and lane. Second, the feature points were projected onto the panoramic image by initial
parameters and then by extracting corresponding feature points near the projection location. Third, the direct linear transformation method was used to solve the registration model and eliminate mismatching feature points. In the experiments, we compare the accuracy of our registration method
with other registration methods by a sequence of panoramic images. The results show that our registration method is effective; the registration accuracy of our method is less than 10 pixels and averaged 5.84 pixels in all 31 panoramic images (4000 × 8000 pixels), which is much less than
that of the 56.24 pixels obtained by the original registration method.
Mengelola Polarisasi Politik dalam Sirkulasi Kekuasaan di Indonesia: Catatan bagi Agenda Riset
Authors: Karim Abdul Gaffar
Published: October 2019

Tulisan ini membahas polarisasi dalam politik elektoral di Indonesia, yang dalam banyak aspek sangat ditentukan oleh framing media dan interaksi para aktor dalam media sosial. Sejak tahun 2014, Indonesia mengalami polarisasi politik dalam derajat yang cukup mengkhawatirkan setiap kali berlangsung pemilihan pimpinan eksekutif ditingkat nasional maupun di ibukota Jakarta. Polarisasi ini cenderung belum memperoleh perhatian yang memadai dalam kajian politik Indonesia. Tulisan ini menyajikan pengamatan awal tentang polarisasi politik itu, dengan tujuan untuk mengidentifikasi peluang-peluang pendalaman riset. Mengingat polarisasi politik itu kemungkinan besar akan tetap hadir dalam sejumlah peristiwa elektoral utama di Indonesia (khususnya pemilihan presiden tahun 2019), penelitian-penelitian yang cukup intensif tentang fenomena ini masih sangat ditunggu dalam studi politik.
Criticizing the Handling of Rohingya Refugees in Southeast Asia by ASEAN and Its Members
Authors: Pudjibudojo Widya Priyahita
Published: October 2019

This article is a combination of scientific and policy papers. It will critically review how the Rohingya refugees were handled in Southeast Asia. The method used is qualitative policy analysis. The author will compare the statements contained in the ASEAN Charter, the Blueprint of the ASEAN Political-Security Community, and the ASEAN Declaration of Human Rights (AHRD) as legal umbrellas which guarantee the fulfilment of human rights in Southeast Asia with the policy responses of ASEAN and some of its members (Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia) toward the flow of Rohingya refugees. The policy analysis will target the substance and implications of the refugees. In general, there are two approaches to refugee policies, ‘security’ with an orientation toward state sovereignty and ‘humanism (human security)’ which is pro-refugee. The author uses the second approach as a framework and a standing position. Based on the results of the analysis, the security approach is far more dominant in the handling of Rohingya than humanism. The wave of Rohingya refugees is read as a security threat, economic burden, potential cultural issue, and other negative things that ultimately put the refugees in a worse position. The author criticizes this and suggests a number of recommendations to pursue a more humanistic approach.
Fusiform Cervical Mass in a 6-Year Old Boy; Do not Forget the Thymic Cyst
Authors: Patoulias Ioannis , Mitroudi Magdalini , Rafailidis Vasilios , Feidantsis Thomas , Theocharides Constantine , Kampouridou Parthena , Patoulias Dimitrios
Published: October 2019

Cervical thymic cyst is a rare clinical entity, with approximately one hundred cases reported in the literature so far. The purpose of this case report is to highlight some certain features, along with an extensive research of the relevant literature. A 6-year-old boy was admitted to the Otorhinolaryngology Department due to the presence of a left-sided, painless, latero-cervical swelling, first observed by his parents 2 weeks ago. Physical examination revealed a painless, well-delineated mass, with no signs of inflammation. No enlarged cervical nodes were present. The mass extended from the mandibular angle, under the sternocleidomastoid muscle, in proximity with the ipsilateral neurovascular bundle. Ultrasound transverse gray-scale panoramic view detected a wellcircumscribed lesion, with fine echogenic foci, appearing in close proximity with the upper pole of the left thyroid lobe and the ipsilateral common carotid artery. Elective surgical intervention with complete mass excision was performed. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of a cervical thymic cyst. Cervical thymic remnants represent a group of neck masses that pediatricians and pediatric surgeons should consider in differential diagnosis of both cystic and solid neck masses. Most cystic cervical thymic masses are found in the lower third of the anterior neck, extending deep to the sternocleidomastoid muscle, featuring close anatomic relationship with the composites of the ipsilateral carotid sheath. Elective surgery is kept as the treatment of choice, after ruling out the possibility of subject immunologic disturbance.
Gottesbegriff und Gotteserkenntnis bei Constantin Brunner und Martin Buber
Authors: Werner Hans
Published: October 2019

The concept of God plays a prominent role in both Constantin Brunner’s and Martin Buber’s writings. In the way they treated this subject there are similarities, but also some striking differences. Both thinkers saw their philosophy as an attempt to explain the Absolute (Brunner) or God (Buber). Both were influenced by the philosophy of Spinoza and the tradition of mysticism. The crucial difference between Brunner and Buber is that Buber thinks of God as a person with whom a personal relationship is possible. Brunner, on his part, rejects any form of anthropomorphism and thinks of God as the Absolute, as an impersonal, unifying principle. Both interpretations point to a different understanding of religion and Judaism. For Brunner, Buber’s concept of God was an example of »superstition«, whereas Buber would have argued that Brunner does not understand the role of the Jewish God as a partner in dialogue.
An updated protocol based on CLSI document C37 for preparation of off-the-clot serum from individual units for use alone or to prepare commutable pooled serum reference materials
Authors: Danilenko Uliana , Vesper Hubert W. , Myers Gary L. , Clapshaw Patric A. , Camara Johanna E. , Miller W. Greg
Published: October 2019

Manufacturers of in vitro diagnostic medical devices, clinical laboratories, research laboratories and calibration laboratories require commutable reference materials that can be used in the calibration hierarchies of medical laboratory measurement procedures used for human specimens to establish metrological traceability to higher order reference systems. Commutable materials are also useful in external quality assessment surveys. In order to achieve these goals, matrix-based reference materials with long-term stability, appropriate measurand concentrations and commutability with individual human specimens are required. The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guideline C37-A (now archived) provided guidance to prepare commutable pooled serum reference materials for use in the calibration hierarchies of cholesterol measurement procedures. Experience using the C37-A guideline has identified a number of technical enhancements as well as applications to measurands other than cholesterol. This experience is incorporated into this updated protocol to ensure the procedure will continue to meet the needs of the medical laboratory. The updated protocol describes a procedure for preparing frozen human serum units or pools with minimal matrix alterations that are likely to be commutable with individual human serum samples. The protocol provides step-by-step guidance for the planning phase, collection of individual serum units, processing the units, qualifying the units for use in a pool and frozen storage of aliquots of pooled sera to manufacture frozen serum pools. Guidance on how to perform quality control of the final product and suggestions on documentation are also provided.
Empowerment Rights and Happiness Gap in Post-socialist Countries
Authors: Lewczuk Anna
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we contribute to the debate on life-satisfaction gap between the citizens of post-socialist countries of Europe and Asia and their highly developed OECD counterparts, by examining the influence of de jure and de facto respect for empowerment rights. We mainly focus on the measure of rights protection called de jure - de facto rights protection gap. The empowerment rights included in the analysis are: the freedom of association, the freedom of expression, the freedom of religion, the freedom of foreign movement. Our results imply that government’s respect for these rights plays the role in diminishing happiness gap. We base the conclusions on an empirical study conducted on the sample of more than 59,000 observations. The data used for the study consist of World Values Survey database (waves 3–6) and a number of socio-economic indicators for 44 countries.
Modelling of Acoustic Wave Propagation Due to Partial Discharge and Its Detection and Localization in an Oil-Filled Distribution Transformer
Authors: Meitei Sorokhaibam Nilakanta , Borah Kunal , Chatterjee Saibal
Published: October 2019

Partial discharge (PD) is the main cause of the insulation decay and hence periodical testing of the insulation condition of a distribution transformer is necessary. This paper presents a model of PD acoustic wave propagation, detection, and localization in an oil-filled distribution transformer using finite element method supported by COMSOL Multiphysics software. Using an acoustic module and AC/DC module of COMSOL Multiphysics software, oil filled distribution transformer, and the acoustic piezoelectric sensor are simulated to analyze and detect the PD inside the transformer. PD is numerically simulated in the transformer windings, core, and oil ducts that produce acoustic wave signal. The distribution of the acoustic pressure wave inside the model transformer is analyzed first. Next, the acoustic piezoelectric sensors are modelled at four different locations of the model transformer to detect the pressure acoustic wave signal induced due to PD in the transformer. Finally, using an artificial neural network (ANN), the localization, and identification of PD in various parts of the transformer have been analyzed. The results obtained for location and detection are quite encouraging.
Altercatio – Wortgefechte, Dissens und Konkurrenz in der senatorischen Debattenkultur des frühen Prinzipats
Authors: Künzer Isabelle
Published: October 2019

The ancient sources frequently mention heated debates during meetings of the Roman senate under the early empire. Such debates could become so intense they might even threaten to impede the Senate’s decision-making abilities. Nevertheless, senatorial debate in the curia was not necessarily dysfunctional: in fact, it had a crucial instrumental function. Potential dissent among members of the senate could be discussed and settled before voting began, taking it out of the decision-making process proper. The symbolic dimensions of senatorial altercationes were if possible even more important, because the existence of communicative dissent showed that discussions still happened in the curia: proof that the Senate was still a functioning political entity. A combined agent-centred and institutional-historical methodological approach allows us to track not only individual practices of dispute, competition, and raising one’s profile, but to perceive more clearly the impact and the function disputes had for the Senate’s debating culture as a whole.
Application of gradient method for separately analyzing optical and mechanical dot gain of electrophotography prints
Authors: Itrić Katarina , Modrić Damir , Milković Marin , Divjak Alan
Published: October 2019

The ultimate goal of each production process is to optimize all the subprocesses leading to the high quality final product. Within the printing process, dot gain is identified as one of the most important variables to control because of the extremely negative impact to middle tone contrast and the overall reproduction. Dot gain consists of two components, mechanical and optical dot gain, as a result of two different contributions. This article proposes a model for separately analyzing components of dot gain for electrophotography prints using gradient method, where the impact of printing technique and paper type will be examined. It is shown that mechanical dot gain for electrophotography prints can be satisfactorily approximated with Gaussian, whilst optical dot gain is once again confirmed to have the form of a Lorentzian.
Effect of PVA fiber on durability of cementitious composite containing nano-SiO2
Authors: Zhang Peng , Li Qing-fu , Wang Juan , Shi Yan , Ling Yi-feng
Published: October 2019

In the current investigation, the influence of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers on flowability and durability of cementitious composite containing fly ash and nano-SiO2 was evaluated. PVA fibers were added into the composite at a volume fraction of 0.3%, 0.6%, 0.9%, and 1.2%. The flowability of the fresh cementitious composite was assessed using slump flow. The durability of cementitious composite includes carbonation resistance, permeability resistance, cracking resistance as well as freezing-thawing resistance, which were evaluated by the depth of carbonation, the water permeability height, cracking resistance ratio of the specimens, and relative dynamic elastic modulus of samples after freeze-thaw cycles, respectively. The results indicated that addition of PVA fibers had a little disadvantageous influence on flowability of cementitious composite, and the flowability of the fresh mixtures decreased with increases in PVA fiber content. Incorporation of PVA fibers significantly improved the durability of cementitious composites regardless of addition of nano-particles. When the fiber content was less than 1.2%, the durability indices of permeability resistance and cracking resistance increased with fiber content. However, the durability indices of carbonation resistance and freezing-thawing resistance began to decrease as the fiber dosage increased from 0.9% to 1.2%. The fiber reinforced cementitious composite exhibited better durability due to addition of nano-SiO2 particles. Nano-SiO2 particle improves microscopic structure of fiber reinforced cementitious composites, and the nano-particles are beneficial for PVA fibers to play the role of reinforcement in cementitious composites.
Cr effects on the electrical contact properties of the Al2O3-Cu/15W composites
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Zhang Yi , Tian Baohong , Jia Yanlin , Liu Yong , Song Kexing , Volinsky Alex. A. , Xue Huihui
Published: October 2019

In order to investigate the effects of chromium on the electrical contact properties of the Al2O3-Cu/15W composites, vacuum hot-pressing sintering and internal oxidation methods were employed to fabricate the Al2O3-Cu/15W and Al2O3-Cu/15W5Cr composites. The microstructure was analyzed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The electrical contacts testing was performed using the JF04C testing machine at 30 V DC with 10-30 A current. The effects of Cr on the comprehensive properties, arc erosion morphology and welding force of the electrical contacts were investigated. The mass transfer mechanism was discussed. It was demonstrated that the Al2O3 nanoparticles pinned dislocations. The diffraction spots of the Cu matrix and the γ-Al2O3 disclose an orientation relationship of <103>Cu//<103>γ−Al2O3,{020}Cu//{040}γ−Al2O3. A typical arc erosion morphology, such as needle-like and coral structures was formed, which provides significantly enhanced arc erosion resistance of the contact material. Compared with the Al2O3-Cu/15W composite, the Al2O3-Cu/15W5Cr composite has a lower welding force. The two composites present two distinct mass transfer trends before and after 25 A. The final mass transfer direction of the composites is from the cathode to the anode. The Al2O3-Cu/15W5Cr contacts have less mass change under all testing conditions.
CRS and HIPEC in patients with peritoneal metastasis secondary to colorectal cancer: The small-bowel PCI score as a predictor of survival
Authors: Spiliotis John , Kalles Vasileios , Kyriazanos Ioannis , Terra Alexios , Prodromidou Anastasia , Raptis Apostolos , Kopanakis Nikolaos , Christopoulou Athina
Published: October 2019

Background

Combining cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with Hyperthermic IntraPeritoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) can benefit patients with peritoneal metastasis from colorectal cancer. The present study evaluates the small bowel subset of the Peritoneal Cancer Index (Small-Bowel-PCI score (SB-PCI), min-max 0–12) as a prognostic factor in such patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients that underwent CRS and HIPEC for recurrent colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastasis. Patient characteristics, procedure details, and clinical outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Eighty patients were included. The mean intraoperative PCI-score was 16.8, with a mean SB-PCI score of 5.9. CC0/1 was achieved in 62/80 patients. The mean follow-up period was 26.3 months. Univariate regression analysis showed that the ECOG status, the presence of severe complications, the HIPEC regimen (oxaliplatin vs. mitomycin-C), the PCI score, the SB-PCI score and the completeness of cytoreduction correlated significantly with overall survival. In multivariate analysis, the SB-PCI and CC score were identified as independent prognostic factors of survival. When the SB-PCI was stratified in three groups (0–4, 5–8 and 9–12), Kaplan–Meier curve analysis showed significant difference in survival (p<0.001).

Conclusions

The SB-PCI correlates with overall survival in patients with peritoneal metastases secondary to colorectal cancer in this retrospective cohort. Its use should be validated in prospective patient series.
The nonlinear effects of uncertainty shocks
Authors: Jackson Laura E. , Kliesen Kevin L. , Owyang Michael T.
Published: October 2019

We consider the effects of uncertainty shocks in a nonlinear VAR that allows uncertainty to have amplification effects. When uncertainty is relatively low, fluctuations in uncertainty have small, linear effects. In periods of high uncertainty, the effect of a further increase in uncertainty is magnified. We find that uncertainty shocks in this environment have a more pronounced effect on real economic variables. We also conduct counterfactual experiments to determine the channels through which uncertainty acts. Uncertainty propagates through both the household consumption channel and through businesses delaying investment, providing substantial contributions to the decline in GDP observed after uncertainty shocks. Finally, we find evidence of the ability of systematic monetary policy to mitigate the adverse effects of uncertainty shocks.
Fibrinopeptide-A and fibrinopeptide-B may help to D-dimer as early diagnosis markers for acute mesenteric ischemia
Authors: Cikot Murat , Gemici Eyup , Isiksacan Nilgun , Kones Osman , Kasapoglu Pinar , Binboga Sinan , Binboga Elif , Kartal Bahadir , Alis Halil
Published: October 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the importance of fibrinopeptide-A and fibrinopeptide-B, which occur during the formation of D-dimer, the most commonly used laboratory parameter, in the early diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI).

Materials and methods

This experimental study was performed in 30 male pathogen-free Wistar albino rats. The experimental animals were divided into 3 equal groups: Control group (n = 10), Sham group (n = 10) and Ischemia group (n = 10). Blood samples were taken 0, 1, 3, and 6 h after the simulation of mesenteric ischemia.

Results

Fibrinopeptide-A and fibrinopeptide-B levels increased significantly in the first 6 h in the ischemic group, similar to the increase in D-dimer levels. The statistical change between 0, 1, 3 and 6 h was more significant for fibrinopeptide-A and fibrinopeptide-B.

Conclusion

Fibrinopeptide-A and fibrinopeptide-B may be markers that can be used for early diagnosis of mesenteric ischemia, early diagnosis is highly important for decreasing mortality and morbidity.
The Effects of a Bioenergy Economy Based Program on Attention Bias Modification in People With High Anxiety Sensitivity
Authors: Keyvanipour Maryam , Goli Farzad , Bigdeli Imanollah , Boroumand Amirreza , Rafieinia Parvin , Sabahi Parviz
Published: October 2019

Background: According to scientific evidence, high levels of sensitivity anxiety are one of the predictors of panic attacks, anxiety, and depression. The multidimensional anxiety sensitivity (cognitive, social, and physiological) is base on cognitive biases such as attention biases which are due to selecting threatening stimuli instead of neutral or positive stimuli. Despite the initial promise, attention bias modification (ABM) has a limited effect on reducing anxiety. This study aims to modify attention bias by reducing the focus on the threatening stimuli based on Bioenergy Economy (BEE) protocol; as an integrated model of care. Methods: The present study is base on a quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test and follow-up in both groups. Thirty women between the ages of 23 to 50 selected from the patients referred to Bozorgmehr Neurology clinic in Mashhad. People who scored more than 70 in anxiety test, were randomly put into the experimental and control groups. The data collection tool was dotprobe test. The experimental group participated in the entire BEE protocol. Results: The mean score sensitivity anxiety of the experimental group in the pre-test, post-test, and follow-up was significantly lower than those in the control group by using multivariate analysis of covariance. Also, the mean score of the experimental group in dot-probe test, neutral reaction time, emotional response time, and interference score in the post-test phase, as well as the components of dull reaction time and sensitive response time in the follow-up and post-test were significantly lower than the control group. Conclusion: The BEE protocol is effective in ABM and reducing high sensitivity anxiety.
Comparison of Resilience, Cognitive Emotion Regulation and Metacognitive Beliefs of Primiparous and Multiparous Women
Authors: Nejati Sara , Akbari Bahman , Nazari Niloofar
Published: October 2019

Background: The aim of this present study was the comparison of resilience, cognitive emotion regulation, and metacognitive beliefs of primiparous and multiparous women in Rasht. Methods: The current research was a cross-sectional analytic study. The participants of this research were all of the primiparous and multiparous women who referred to Rasht hospitals between June and October in 2016. A total of 120 persons (60 primiparous and 60 multiparous women) selected by the random clustering sampling method. The Connor-Davidson resilience scale assessed the participants, cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire by Granfsky et al and Wells et al. metacognition questionnaire. Data analysis have done by using the multivariate variance analysis by SPSS v. 22 software. Results: The findings showed that there were significant differences in resilience, cognitive emotion regulation, and metacognitive beliefs between primiparous and multiparous women (P<0.001). Conclusion: The results illustrated that there were significant differences in primiparous and multiparous women in resilience, cognitive emotion regulation, and metacognitive beliefs. It seems that training and practical steps to upgrade them as necessary.
Investigating the Use of Lime Residuals as an Alternative in Portland Limestone Cement
Authors: Lute Racheal D. , Drimalas Thano , Folliard Kevin J.
Published: October 2019

This article presents the use of lime residuals from water treatment plants and their incorporation into concrete. Through a lime-softening process, hydrated lime is added at the water treatment plant to lower water hardness from which lime residuals form. Lime residuals are mainly calcium carbonate, which make them a good addition in cement manufacturing. Specimens were cast with lime residuals at 3 and 15 % replacement dosages to determine their potential for use in manufacturing a standard cement or creating portland limestone cement. Tests were performed on three lime residual samples and available limestone products. The results showed minimal performance differences between each of the mixtures. Fresh properties (slump, air content, and unit weight) and hardened properties along with hydration microstructure (x-ray diffraction and isothermal calorimetry) were evaluated. Results showed that the use of lime residuals could be an effective alternative for powdered limestone in portland limestone cement production. In addition, long-term external sulfate attack testing was performed. Sulfate resistance decreased with increasing lime residual content.
MCRS1 is essential for epiblast development during early mouse embryogenesis
Authors: Cui Wei , Cheong Agnes , Wang Yongsheng , Tsuchida Yuran , Liu Yong , Tremblay Kimberly D , Mager Jesse
Published: October 2019

Microspherule protein 1 (MCRS1, also known as MSP58) is an evolutionarily conserved protein that has been implicated in various biological processes. Although a variety of functions have been attributed to MCRS1 in vitro, mammalian MCRS1 has not been studied in vivo. Here we report that MCRS1 is essential during early murine development. Mcrs1 mutant embryos exhibit normal morphology at the blastocyst stage but cannot be recovered at gastrulation, suggesting an implantation failure. Outgrowth (OG) assays reveal that mutant blastocysts do not form a typical inner cell mass (ICM) colony, the source of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Surprisingly, cell death and histone H4 acetylation analysis reveal that apoptosis and global H4 acetylation are normal in mutant blastocysts. However, analysis of lineage specification reveals that while the trophoblast and primitive endoderm are properly specified, the epiblast lineage is compromised and exhibits a severe reduction in cell number. In summary, our study demonstrates the indispensable role of MCRS1 in epiblast development during early mammalian embryogenesis.
Implementation of Finding Shortest Route for Pharmacy Location Using A-star Algorithm
Authors: Juniawan Fransiskus Panca , Sylfania Dwi Yuny , Agrina Dini
Published: October 2019

The number of pharmacies in the Pangkalpinang City has increased rapidly. This is directly proportional to the needs of the people of Pangkalpinang City to fulfill the health needs, buy medicine or divert doctor's prescriptions. This is a debate for people who do not know the location of pharmacies in this city. Practically, people can just go to a pharmacy with a location that far from user location, even though there is a pharmacy near the user. This is because there is no pharmacy information location in the Pangkalpinang City. To solve this problem, proposed a system that can display the location of all pharmacies in the Pangkalpinang City. In addition, the system can search the shortest path from the user's location to the nearest pharmacy location around using the A * algorithm. This algorithm was chosen because its advantages that are able to produce optimal solutions according to the expected heuristic functions. The results of the testing are that the system can optimize and be able to search the shortest path from the user's location to the nearest pharmacy.
Parent-Child Talk about Early Numeracy
Authors: Douglas Ashli-Ann , Zippert Erica L , Rittle-Johnson Bethany
Published: October 2019

The goal of the study was to examine how the type of informal number activity in which parents and their preschoolers engage and parents’ math-related beliefs relate to parent-child exploration of an advanced early number concept. Parents and their preschoolers (n = 46) engaged in a videotaped play session and parents were surveyed about their math-related beliefs. The findings indicate that the type of informal number activity that parents chose to play with their children predicted how frequently they explored an advanced early number concept with them. Additionally, some but not all parents’ math-related beliefs were related to parent-child number talk. These results suggest that identifying games that facilitate specific number concepts may be a good way for researchers to help parents and children explore more advanced early number concepts frequently. The results also highlight the need for additional research on the role of parents’ math-related beliefs in their support of their children’s early learning and school readiness.
Ultra-wideband long-term RF-signal delay devices: optimal decisions analysis
Authors: Belkin M
Published: October 2019

In order to determine the optimal retarding environment for long-term delays of radio frequency (RF) signals, data of the research and development for electric, acoustic-electronic, acoustic-optical, spin, superconducting circuits delay were summarized. It is concluded, that none of the existing classes do not fully meet modern requirements. Comparing technical features (Table 1) have been achieved, showed that in terms of bandwidth and maximum delay time the best option is provided with active electric delay circuit based on a digital radio frequency memory (DRFM), which disadvantages are EMC problems and high power consumption. Evaluations of limiting characteristics for a new approach based on fiber-optic delay circuit clearly show that a single-channel active fiber optic delay circuit (FODC) of RF signals can provide a delay time interval of 3.2 ns to 30 ms in the entire operating band from 50 MHz to 40 GHz.
Expansão global dos ensaios clínicos: inovação e interação
Authors: Oliveira Robson Rocha de , Viana Ana Luiza d’Ávila
Published: October 2019

A inovação em saúde é caracterizada por uma forte interação com o setor de ciência e tecnologia. O crescente interesse pela internacionalização das atividades de pesquisa e desenvolvimento conduz ao questionamento sobre as oportunidades em função das interações com outros países, como mecanismo para a construção de capacidades nacionais de inovação. Conforme os ensaios clínicos atravessaram as fronteiras nacionais, alcançando uma expressão global, as redes de relações entre os atores envolvidos tornaram-se cada vez mais complexas e apresentam-se como uma possibilidade para a caracterização da interação dos sistemas nacionais de inovação no plano global, particularmente pelo ponto de vista da produção de atividades de ciência, tecnologia e inovação em saúde. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar a expansão global de ensaios clínicos a fim de se discutir possíveis fatores relacionados com a interação dos sistemas nacionais de inovação dos países envolvidos. Os métodos empregados incluíram pesquisa bibliográfica e análise de dados secundários. Constata-se uma crescente interdependência dos sistemas nacionais de inovação, requerendo novas estruturas internacionais de inovação. Surgem novas oportunidades para a produção e a difusão internacional do conhecimento. Os ensaios clínicos promovem e requerem interação entre empresas, universidades e instâncias governamentais, revelando-se como elemento estratégico para a estruturação dos sistemas nacionais de inovação em saúde no contexto global.
Variable Elimination in Binary CSPs
Authors: Cooper Martin C. , El Mouelhi Achref , Terrioux Cyril
Published: October 2019

We investigate rules which allow variable elimination in binary CSP (constraint satisfaction problem) instances while conserving satisfiability. We study variable-elimination rules based on the language of forbidden patterns enriched with counting and quantification over variables and values. We propose new rules and compare them, both theoretically and experimentally. We give optimised algorithms to apply these rules and show that each define a novel tractable class. Using our variable-elimination rules in preprocessing allowed us to solve more benchmark problems than without.