bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FIRST DETECTION OF A PULSAR BOW SHOCK NEBULA IN FAR-UV: PSR J0437–4715∗
Authors: Rangelov Blagoy , Pavlov George G. , Kargaltsev Oleg , Durant Martin , Bykov Andrei M. , Krassilchtchikov Alexandre
Published: November 2016

Pulsars traveling at supersonic speeds are often accompanied by cometary bow shocks seen in Hα. We report on the first detection of a pulsar bow shock in the far-ultraviolet (FUV). We detected it in FUV images of the nearest millisecond pulsar J0437−4715 obtained with the Hubble Space Telescope. The images reveal a bow-like structure positionally coincident with part of the previously detected Hα bow shock, with an apex at 10″ ahead of the moving pulsar. Its FUV luminosity,

erg s−1, exceeds the Hα luminosity from the same area by a factor of 10. The FUV emission could be produced by the shocked interstellar medium matter or, less likely, by relativistic pulsar wind electrons confined by strong magnetic field fluctuations in the bow shock. In addition, in the FUV images we found a puzzling extended (≃3″ in size) structure overlapping with the limb of the bow shock. If related to the bow shock, it could be produced by an inhomogeneity in the ambient medium or an instability in the bow shock. We also report on a previously undetected X-ray emission extending for about 5″ ahead of the pulsar, possibly a pulsar wind nebula created by shocked pulsar wind, with a luminosity L(0.5–8 keV) ∼ 3 × 1028 erg s−1.
GAS-PHASE ABSORPTIONS OF C+
60: A NEW COMPARISON WITH ASTRONOMICAL MEASUREMENTS*

†
Authors: Walker G. A. H. , Campbell E. K. , Maier J. P. , Bohlender D. , Malo L.
Published: November 2016

Campbell et al. recently revised, by a few tenths of an Å, the wavelengths for their low-temperature laboratory measurements of fullerene

bands. This accounts for the perturbation caused by the He atom to the

spectrum. Here, we demonstrate that the revised laboratory wavelengths improve coincidence with the 9632, 9577, 9428, 9365, and 9348 diffuse interstellar bands detected towards the stars HD 46711, HD 169454, and HD 183143.
THE TRENDS HIGH-CONTRAST IMAGING SURVEY. VI. DISCOVERY OF A MASS, AGE, AND METALLICITY BENCHMARK BROWN DWARF
Authors: Crepp Justin R. , Gonzales Erica J. , Bechter Eric B. , Montet Benjamin T. , Johnson John Asher , Piskorz Danielle , Howard Andrew W. , Isaacson Howard
Published: November 2016

The mass and age of substellar objects are degenerate parameters leaving the evolutionary state of brown dwarfs ambiguous without additional information. Theoretical models are normally used to help distinguish between old, massive brown dwarfs and young, low-mass brown dwarfs but these models have yet to be properly calibrated. We have carried out an infrared high-contrast imaging program with the goal of detecting substellar objects as companions to nearby stars to help break degeneracies in inferred physical properties such as mass, age, and composition. Rather than using imaging observations alone, our targets are pre-selected based on the existence of dynamical accelerations informed from years of stellar radial velocity (RV) measurements. In this paper, we present the discovery of a rare benchmark brown dwarf orbiting the nearby (d = 18.69 ± 0.19 pc), solar-type (G9V) star HD 4747 ([Fe/H] = −0.22 ± 0.04) with a projected separation of only ρ = 11.3 ± 0.2 au (θ = 0.″6). Precise Doppler measurements taken over 18 years reveal the companion’s orbit and allow us to place strong constraints on its mass using dynamics (

). Relative photometry (ΔK

s
= 9.05 ± 0.14,

,

) indicates that HD 4747 B is most likely a late-type L-dwarf and, if near the L/T transition, an intriguing source for studying cloud physics, variability, and polarization. We estimate a model-dependent mass of

for an age of

Gyr based on gyrochronology. Combining astrometric measurements with RV data, we calculate the companion dynamical mass (

) and orbit (e = 0.740 ± 0.002) directly. As a new mass, age, and metallicity benchmark, HD 4747 B will serve as a laboratory for precision astrophysics to test theoretical models that describe the emergent radiation of brown dwarfs.
Reporting on the Prevalence of Antiretroviral Drug Resistance in a Regional HIV Population over 20 Years: A Word of Caution
Authors: Gill Victoria C , Lynch Tarah , Ramazani Soheil , Krentz Hartmut B
Published: November 2016

Background

Failure to achieve complete viral suppression with antiretroviral drugs (ARV) may lead to uncontrolled HIV replication, ARV resistance and negative outcomes. Monitoring and reporting of HIV resistance trends is important but problematic. We examined prevalent resistance rates in an HIV population over 20 years and document how rates may appear to vary greatly based solely on which parameters are utilized.

Methods

We determined the annual use of geno-typic antiretroviral resistance testing (GART) from 1995 to 2014 for all patients receiving HIV care in southern Alberta, Canada, and the presence of resistance mutations in those tested. The impact on prevalent resistance rates of using cumulative or latest GART was also determined.

Results

Between 1995 and 2014, the number of patients with GART increased from <1% to 71%. Prevalent resistance in patients with GART decreased from a high of 52% in 2003 to 25.8% in 2014. However, if prevalence rates were reported using all active patients as denominator, including those without GART, prevalence increased from 0.7% to 18.5%. Prevalence rates were 7% to 9% higher in any given year if cumulative GART rather than latest GART results were used.

Conclusions

While prevalence resistance rates are decreasing, the precise rates being reported may vary due to increasing number of patients tested annually, using either the entire population as denominator or only patients with GART, and using either last or cumulative GART. Defining these parameters is critical if prevalence is to be compared over time or between HIV populations.
Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Consensus Clinical Treatment Plans for Juvenile Dermatomyositis with Persistent Skin Rash
Authors: Huber Adam M. , Kim Susan , Reed Ann M. , Carrasco Ruy , Feldman Brian M. , Hong Sandy D. , Kahn Philip , Rahimi Homaira , Robinson Angela Byun , Vehe Richard K. , Weiss Jennifer E. , Spencer Charles ,   The Juvenile Dermatomyositis Research Committee of the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance
Published: November 2016

Objective.

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is the most common form of idiopathic inflammatory myopathy in children. While outcomes are generally thought to be good, persistence of skin rash is a common problem. The goal of this study was to describe the development of clinical treatment plans (CTP) for children with JDM characterized by persistent skin rash despite complete resolution of muscle involvement.

Methods.

The Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance, a North American consortium of pediatric rheumatologists and other healthcare providers, used a combination of Delphi surveys and nominal group consensus meetings to develop CTP that reflected consensus on typical treatments for patients with JDM with persistent skin rash.

Results.

Consensus was reached on patient characteristics and outcome assessment. Patients should have previously received corticosteroids and methotrexate (MTX). Three consensus treatment plans were developed. Plan A added intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) if it was not already being used. Plan B added mycophenolate mofetil, while Plan C added cyclosporine. Continuation of previous treatments, including corticosteroids, MTX, and IVIG, was permitted in plans B and C.

Conclusion.

Three consensus CTP were developed for use in children with JDM and persistent skin rash despite complete resolution of muscle disease. These CTP reflect typical treatment approaches and are not to be considered treatment recommendations or standard of care. Using prospective data collection and statistical methods to account for nonrandom treatment assignment, it is expected that these CTP will be used to allow treatment comparisons, and ultimately determine the best treatment for these patients.
Development of Veteran-Centric Competency Domains for Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Residents
Authors: York Janet , Sternke Lisa Marie , Myrick Donald (Hugh) , Lauerer Joy , Hair Carole
Published: November 2016

The mental health needs of military service members, Veterans, and their families are a designated national priority; however, there has been little emphasis on the inclusion of Veteran-centric domains in competency-based nursing education for psychiatric–mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). The current article describes the identification and application of Veteran-centric domains in an innovative pilot residency program for PMHNPs, funded by the Veterans Health Administration Office of Academic Affiliations. Fourteen Veteran-centric competency domains were developed from literature review, including knowledge, attitudes, and skill behaviors. Adoption and application of these domains in curricular components included the resident competency evaluation, baseline assessment of military experience, and evidence-based practice seminars and training. Methods of competency domain evaluation are presented, along with gaps related to the evaluation of competency skills. The delivery of mental health services reflecting these domains is consistent with the VA core values and goal of developing a positive service culture. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 54
(11), 31–36.]
De l’attention à accorder aux aspects narratifs et littéraires en anglais de spécialité : l’exemple du domaine économique
Authors: Resche Catherine
Published: November 2016

Cette étude a pour objet de montrer en quoi la prise en compte des segments narratifs et littéraires dans le domaine économique peut bénéficier à la recherche sur les discours et les milieux spécialisés qui les produisent. Le cadre théorique est d’abord présenté par rapport à la conception classique de la séquence narrative et la fonction du récit. L’analyse s’attache ensuite à évaluer la place, la nature et la fonction des manifestations narratives et littéraires au niveau de l’élaboration de la théorie économique du XVIIIe siècle à nos jours. L’étude s’intéresse enfin aux segments narratifs qui servent à partager les connaissances et les transmettre à des étudiants, à éduquer un public plus large, ou encore à communiquer (discours officiels des responsables de la politique monétaire). La perspective panoramique adoptée prend en compte un large éventail de genres (récits, contes, fables, paraboles, manuels) et de tropes (allégories, métaphores, analogies), sans oublier les graphiques et schémas qui racontent aussi des histoires.
The stories scientists tell: narrative features in the scientific article of the late seventeenth and early twenty-first centuries
Authors: Banks David
Published: November 2016

Le but de cet article est de considérer à quel point les techniques de narration sont utilisées dans l’article de recherche scientifique. L’auteur se penche sur deux périodes historiques : la deuxième moitié du dix-septième siècle, qui a vu la naissance de l’article scientifique, et la période actuelle. Le corpus du dix-septième siècle comporte dix numéros des Philosophical Transactions pour la période 1665 à 1694. Dans ces textes, la narration correspond à l’une de quatre fonctions : Cadrage, Observation, Expérimen­tation et 3e Personne. Le corpus du vingt-et-unième siècle comporte huit articles de la Séries A et huit articles de la Séries B des Proceedings of the Royal Society pour les années 2015 et 2016. Dans ces textes, la narration correspond aussi à l’une des quatre fonctions : Niche, Aperçu, Expérimentation et Récapitulation. La Fonction d'Expérimentation est la seule d’avoir survécu d’une période à l’autre. Parmi d’autres points d’intérêt se trouve l’usage de la voix active dans la Fonction Expérimentation dans les articles de la Séries B, mais pas dans ceux de la Séries A.
From the letter to the spirit of the law. Exploratory research on language in behaviourally-informed EU law
Authors: Brunon-Ernst Anne
Published: November 2016

La théorie économique classique est fondée sur le présupposé que, lors d’un achat raisonné, les consommateurs choisissent l’offre la plus intéressante pour eux. En pratique, leurs décisions restent influencées par des biais cognitifs. Les entreprises exploitent ces erreurs systémiques. Les gouvernements interviennent alors souvent pour corriger ces asymétries qui fonctionnent au détriment des consommateurs. Après avoir étudié le cadre théorique et juridique des politiques fondées sur les apports des sciences comportementales, l’article examine, dans le cadre de l’offre d’assurances au moment de l’achat de vols sur internet, comment certaines entreprises jouent avec la formulation de leurs offres pour se plier à la lettre de la loi tout en en violant l’esprit. Paradoxalement, bien que se conformant au droit européen, les entreprises peuvent contourner ces initiatives de protection des consommateurs en utilisant des stratégies linguistiques de cadrage de l’information (framing), que l’article explore.
Quelques pistes pour aborder la notion d’engagement dans les domaines de l’économie, de la finance et dans le monde de l’entreprise du point de vue de la recherche en anglais de spécialité
Authors: Resche Catherine
Published: November 2016

À travers une approche transversale de la notion omniprésente d’engagement en économie, en finance et dans le monde de l’entreprise, cette étude envisage divers chemins qui s’offrent au chercheur en anglais de spécialité pour appréhender les multiples facettes de la question. Dans un premier temps, les aspects linguistiques (lexicaux, puis terminologiques et néologiques) sont abordés ; l’analyse est ensuite élargie aux aspects discursifs et narratifs et de nombreux angles d’approche (stylistique, rhétorique, pragmatique, etc.) sont tour à tour évoqués, y compris des emprunts à la démarche ethnographique et à l’approche civilisationnelle. Enfin, à travers une analyse des choix linguistiques et discursifs des acteurs des milieux spécialisés, c’est aussi sur la voie d’une meilleure compréhension des communautés et milieux spécialisés et de leur culture que le linguiste est invité à s’engager.
Vengeance Culture Online
Authors: Hai-Jew Shalin
Published: November 2016

Vengeance. Payback. Retribution. Just deserts. Evening up the score. Punishment. If there is an ever-replicating and recurring Internet meme, it is one of revenge. Intimate photos are shared online post-relationship and end up picked up by for-profit pornographic websites. Privy information is leaked into private (narrow-cast) or semi-public or public spaces (broadcast) with massive amplifications of messages into the public sphere. Violent attacks and beat-downs are videotaped and shared on video sharing sites. Flash or cyber mobs are brought together to clean-out stores and to exact vengeance on particular businesses. Information and Communication Technology (ICT), with its nexus of pseudo-anonymity, fast dissemination of information, long-term persistence of data, and mass reach, provides multiple affordances for the exacting of vengeance. The popular culture of anonymous hacktivism and cyber-vigilantism further contribute to the sense of the Internet as an ungoverned and extralegal place. Finally, a general imprudence has meant the easy activation of Internet mobs and individuals to harm-causing rumor-sharing and behavior against others—sparked by doubtful claims or loose storytelling. ICT has enabled the spillover of real-world antipathies and dark emotions into virtual spaces, which then slosh back into the real world. This chapter examines the research in the area of vengeance and how such very human impetuses manifest online. Further, this chapter examines the design features of various ICT platforms and socio-technical spaces that may support vengeance-based communications and actions and proposes ways to mitigate some of these dark affordances.
Securing a Human Right to Peace
Authors: Snauwaert Dale T.
Published: November 2016

In a groundbreaking session at the United Nations on June 6, 2013 members of civil society and the UN Secretariat opened a very significant inquiry into fundamental questions of the desirability and possibilities of bringing an end to war. Some have posed this query in terms of whether there is a fundamental human right to peace. The United Nations, members of the global civil society, and scholars have engaged in a significant effort to articulate a human right to peace (See, for example, Alston 1980, Roche 2003, Weiss 2010), and the UN Human Rights Council has established an open-ended intergovernmental working group to draft a United Nations declaration on the right to peace (http://www.ohchr.org/EN/HRBodies/HRC/AdvisoryCommittee/Pages/RightToPeace.aspx).This brief essay is intended to launch that same discussion among peace educators.
Transformative Learning and Empathy Politics
Authors: Russo Marianne Robin , Wang Victor X.
Published: November 2016

Transformative learning theory can create an emancipatory effect for the learner. Therefore, this chapter focuses on how the public can transform their own learning in a more empathetic manner and in a less desensitized manner to become the catalyst for positive change and the mitigation of death or war-related health issues that follow. The research focuses on how to help others and ourselves regarding an empathic learning path, which can bridge health, adult, and transformative learning in order to assist the public in turning their attention toward Vietnam vets. A framework of Freire, Mezirow, Piaget, Kohlberg, and Noddings is garnered so the public may be able to put pressure on politicians to conjure the idea of empathy politics, or one away from aggressive acts and towards the trajectory of diplomacy.
What and Where Are the Risks of International Terrorist Attacks
Authors: Strang Kenneth David , Alamieyeseigha Serafina
Published: November 2016

There seems to be a great deal of attention in the media given to global terrorism but the authors do not know what and where the actual risks are. Western countries such as Australia, UK, and USA have invested a great amount of financial resources to combat global terrorism yet there is a concern the investments outweigh the risk. Furthermore, there are some people who question the reality of global terrorism. To explore these issues, this study analyzes the global terrorism empirical evidence from 1970 to 2013 (2014 was still in progress). The goal was to describe the global terrorist behavior factors and patterns from a socio-economical perspective, to identify who the terrorist groups are, what they do, and where they attack. Interesting descriptive statistics and insights were provided to help practitioners understand how global terrorism impacts us and to motive more empirical into this important topic.
Conflictive Touring
Authors: Korstanje Maximiliano
Published: November 2016

Problems to understand social phenomenon associates to our misconceptions, stereotypes and prejudices imposed during our early socialization. This happens not only with tourism which is valorized as a right of all citizens in modern societies, but also with terrorism, judged as the main threat of West. However, what would happen if both would be different sides of the same coin? This essay review explores the roots of tourism and terrorism during the process of unionization in US. What on one hand resulted in a hyper-mobile process that shore up tourism, on another was a desesperate attempt to struggle against terrorism. In this vein, it is safe to say that tourism is terrorism by other means.
Towards a Comprehensive Approach to Combating Violent Extremist Ideology in the Digital Space
Authors: Ramakrishna Kumar
Published: November 2016

Based on the assumption that ideology is the centre of gravity of a violent Islamist terrorist network, this chapter proposes a Counter-Ideological Response (CIR) Model for countering violent extremism (CVE) in Southeast Asia. The Model seeks to gradually diminish the appeal of violent extremist ideology. It comprises of five conceptual Spaces of Sender, Message, Mechanism, Recipient and Context, within which ideology-relevant policy interventions may be attempted, so as to impact the overall reach and appeal of the violent extremist narrative vis-a-vis any countervailing narrative put out against it. The model is applied to the Indonesian CVE milieu in this chapter.
Violence and Pornographic Violence as a Mass Entertainment Medium
Authors: Erdem M. Nur
Published: November 2016

Containment of violence and pornography in mass media as an entertainment medium is not a recent occurrence. Academic studies have been interested in this issue for many years. Many studies have questioned both the effects and existence of violence and pornographic violence. The main focal point of this chapter is to study the effects of the exposure of excessive graphic violence and pornography in a TV series in recent years. In this line of argument, Spartacus, which contains a high rate of both aspects was chosen as the sample. Firstly, violence and pornographic violence within the series and other basic concepts and their representation are manifested. However, the findings of the analysis all by themselves are not regarded as adequate in this research, and the results of an effect study are included in the chapter.
“It's a Vicious Game”
Authors: Maitra Dev Rup
Published: November 2016

This chapter explores the activities and characteristics of street gangs and organised crime groups in contemporary British society. Although numerous studies exist which investigate youth delinquency and group violence in Britain, there is less research which specifically investigates contemporary British criminal gangs - carrying out such an exploration is the organising principle of this chapter. Through conducting qualitative research at an adult men's prison in England and its surrounding area, this chapter attempts to articulate the experiences of prisoners and street-offenders on this subject. The results illustrate the entrenched role street gangs and organised crime groups hold in certain areas of England; not only are they seen as viable alternatives to gainful employment, but their activities are often sanctioned by the communities within which they are based. Subsequently, a high level of violence is normalised within such communities, including heightened levels of weapon usage by gang members, both within and outside prison.
Challenges and Solutions to Assisting Older Adults in Completing the GED
Authors: Brinkley-Etzkorn Karen E.
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges and solutions encountered by Adult Basic Education (ABE) programs currently serving older adults seeking a GED credential in states where this is the only high school equivalency option available. The following questions guided this research: (1) what are the perceived characteristics and needs of older students seeking a high school equivalency diploma?; (2) how do GED programs promote the success of their older students?; and (3) what are the future service and planning needs of these GED programs with regard to this population? To address these questions, a series of 55 one-on-one, semi-structured interviews with experts across 32 GED-only states was carried out. Findings revealed a consistent, shared experience in terms of overall attitudes and challenges among these experts, as well as a variety of innovative practices and recommendations for assisting older learners.
Component Theories for Human Resource Development in China
Authors: Schmidtke Carsten , Chen Peng
Published: November 2016

Chinese scholars have not yet achieved consensus on the specific theories that should be part of a Chinese HRD theory base. A review of the Chinese HRD literature has identified four theory domains frequently mentioned as a possible foundation for the discipline: management, economics, sociology, and psychology/learning. Considering Swanson and Holton's (2009) argument that theory is important for any emergent discipline, the purpose of this paper is to help ignite the discussion on a theoretical foundation by going beyond the level of domains and proposing an initial core of theories for HRD in China. The proposed theories were chosen because of their fit with the four theory domains, with Deng Xiaoping's guidelines for the development of the Chinese economy and its human resources, and with the Chinese cultural context.
Sustaining Partnerships between Schools and Industry
Authors: Flynn Matthew , Pillay Hitendra , Watters James J.
Published: November 2016

Internationally, there is a growing body of research on industry-school partnership, particularly regarding the principles that contribute to effective and efficient partnership models that facilitate vocational-industrial education. However, there are very few articles in the literature that seek to understand the sustainability of industry-school partnerships. Hence, this paper adopted ecological system principles as a framework for understanding the threats that impact on the sustainability of such partnership arrangements. The author reports on a large-scale government led industry-school partnership, the Gateway to Industry Schools Program, established in Queensland, Australia. Central to this initiative is the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA), a lead organisation for 34 schools and 12 multi-national sponsor companies. This research used an explanatory case study methodology sourcing data through interviews and documents. The main findings were that resilience and adaptive capacity are critical principles for the sustainability of ISPs.
OLAP Analysis Operators for Multi-State Data Warehouses
Authors: Ravat Franck , Song Jiefu , Teste Olivier
Published: November 2016

Data reduction in Multidimensional Data Warehouses (MDWs) allows increasing the efficiency of analysis and facilitating decision-makers' tasks. In this paper, the authors model a MDW containing reduced data through a set of states. Each state is valid for a certain period of time; it contains only useful information according to decision-makers' needs. In order to carry out analyses in a MDW composed of multiple states, an extension of traditional OLAP analysis operators is required. In this paper, the authors define a set of OLAP operators compatible with reduced MDWs. For each operator, they propose a user-oriented definition along with an algorithmic translation. To show the feasibility and the efficiency of the proposed concepts, they implement the analysis operators in an R-OLAP framework.
Business Intelligence Indicators
Authors: Bimonte Sandro , Schneider Michel , Boussaid Omar
Published: November 2016

Nowadays, more and more data are available for decisional analysis and decision-making based on different indicators. Although different decision-making technologies have been developed, the authors note the lack of a conceptual framework for the definition and implementation of these indicators. In this paper, they propose a first classification of these indicators. Furthermore, motivated by the need for formalism for the definition of these indicators at a conceptual level, they present the Business Intelligence Indicators (BI2) UML profile to represent indicators for OLAP, OLTP and streaming technologies. They also present their implementation in existing industrial tools. In addition, they show how these indicators can coexist in the same environment to exchange data through a chaining model and its implementation.
Beyond Digital Human Body Atlases
Authors: Barbeito Antonio , Painho Marco , Cabral Pedro , O'Neill João Goyri
Published: November 2016

The use of integrated models of the human body in three-dimensional environments enables the study of the anatomic structures with a high degree of interactivity and detail. The geographical information systems approach in building topological models allows overcoming certain limitations found in anatomical atlases. In this study, an integrated (vector-raster) 3D model, which defines the external surface of the human body, is expanded by adding the corresponding anatomical structures. The reconstruction of the anatomical structures begins with their segmentation, performed on transverse RGB images of the body. The expanded model, built with explicit topological features, enhances the functionality of the input model by optimizing the identification function and developing an inclusion analysis in 3D. The features of the expanded model allow exploring more efficiently the human body information and representation.
REDAlert+
Authors: Shakdher Arjun , Pandey Kavita
Published: November 2016

Each year, thousands of people in developing countries die due to delayed medical response. A common complaint is that emergency vehicles respond late and when they reach the hospital, precious time is lost in understanding the patient trauma before the doctors can get to work. A large number of deaths can be prevented if medical services can be provided to the victims in time, which can happen when the emergency wing of a hospital has advance information about the trauma before the patient reaches the hospital. Most hospitals lack communication infrastructure that allows them to coordinate with emergency vehicles bringing patients to hospital. In developed countries, Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks (VANETs) are prevalent. These networks use vehicles as mobile nodes to create a small-interconnected network on the road. A mobile application based on the principle of VANETs in combination with wireless communication and database management has been devised, that when integrated with emergency vehicles and hospitals, provides a seamless medical response system at times of an emergency.
A Modern Approach to Solve of Economic Load Dispatch using Group Leader Optimization Technique
Authors: Roy Subhajit , Bhattacharjee Kuntal , Bhattacharya Aniruddha
Published: November 2016

Economic load dispatch plays an important role of power system operation & control by using different soft techniques that have been used to solve convex and non-convex economic load dispatch (ELD) problems. This paper presents a new global optimization algorithm to the economic load dispatch problems for minimization of fuel cost of generations with different constraints such as ramp rate limits, valve-point loading and prohibited operating zones of large-scale thermal plants. Power transmission loss has also been considered in few cases. Group leader optimization algorithm (GLOA) is a relatively new optimization technique. Mathematical models of this algorithm demonstrate the efficiency, quality of solution and convergence speed of the method and successful application of the algorithm on ELD problems. Simulation results found that the proposed approach outperforms several other existing optimization techniques in terms quality of solution obtained and computational efficiency. Results also be confirmed the robustness of the proposed methodology.
Distributed Query Plan Generation using Cuckoo Search Algorithm
Authors: Yadav Monika , Kumar T. V. Vijay
Published: November 2016

Query processing in distributed databases involves data transmission amongst sites capable of providing answers to a distributed query. For this, a distributed query processing strategy, which generates efficient query processing plans for a given distributed query, needs to be devised. Since in distributed databases, the data is fragmented and replicated at multiple sites, the number of query plans increases exponentially with increase in the number of sites capable of providing answers to a distributed query. As a result, generating efficient query processing plans, from amongst all possible query plans, becomes a complex problem. This distributed query plan generation (DQPG) problem has been addressed using the Cuckoo Search Algorithm (CSA) in this paper. Accordingly, a CSA based DQPG algorithm (DQPGCSA) that aims to generate Top-K query plans having minimum cost of processing a distributed query has been proposed. Experimental based comparison of DQPGCSA with the existing GA based DQPG algorithm shows that the former is able to generate Top-K query plans that have a comparatively lower query processing cost. This, in turn, reduces the query response time resulting in efficient decision making.
Modeling of Radiometal Complexation Formation with Bifunctional Coupling Agents Using Ligand-Metal Interaction Profile
Authors: Salahinejad Maryam , Zolfonoun Ehsan
Published: November 2016

This study aims to establish generalized models for predicting the complex formation (KML) of Ga(III),Cu(II) and In(III) radiometal ions with bifunctional coupling agents of diverse structures. The models were developed based on three different blocks of descriptors e.g. ligand descriptors, metal ions properties and cross-term variables for the analysis of ligand-metal interaction profile. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and support vector regression (SVR) have been utilized to construct the models. The final models showed the best statistical results with squared correlation coefficients of 0.84 and the standard error of estimation (SEE) and standard error of prediction (SEP) values of 2.8 and 3.2 logKML units respectively. The final models were checked for chance correlation, reliability and robustness by permutation testing of y scrambling and cross-validation procedures. The results elucidate the contribution of hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions, shape and size of organic ligand and the coordination and electron configuration of metal ions to the complex formation.
A combination of tryptophan, Satureja montana, Tribulus terrestris, Phyllanthus emblica extracts is able to improve sexual quality of life in patient with premature ejaculation
Authors: Sansalone Salvatore , Russo Giorgio Ivan , Mondaini Nicola , Cantiello Francesco , Antonini Gabriele , Cai Tommaso
Published: November 2016

Objective: The management of patient affected by premature ejaculation (PE) is nowadays not highly satisfactory. Here, we aimed to evaluate the tolerability and efficacy of a combination of tryptophan, Satureja montana, Tribulus terrestris, Phyllanthus emblica extracts in order to improve sexual quality of life in patients with premature ejaculation. Materials and methods: All patients attending to 5 urological centers from January 2015 to March 2015, due to premature ejaculation were enrolled in this study. At the enrolment visit, all subjects underwent self-administered IIEF-5, Male Sexual Health Questionnaire-Ejaculation Disorder (MSHQEjD), PEDT and IELTS (calculated as mean from that perceived by partner and that perceived by patient) and underwent urological visit and laboratory examinations. All patients received one tablet per day of a combination of tryptophan, Satureja montana, Tribulus terrestris, Phyllanthus emblica extracts for 3 months (Group A). After 3 months all patients underwent follow-up visit with the same investigations that have been carried out in the enrolment visit. The results were compared with a cohort of patients enrolled in the same period in another urological center and considered as a control group (Group B). All patients in the control group underwent counseling and sexual behavioral treatment without any pharmacological compound. Results: At the follow-up analysis, significant changes in terms of IELT in the Group A (mean difference: 31.90; p < 0.05) at 3 months and versus Group B at the intergroup analysis (mean difference: 30.30; p < 0.05) were reported. In the group A, significant differences from baseline to last follow- up were observed relative to IIEF-5 (mean difference: 1.04; p < 0.05), PEDT (mean difference: -2.57; p < 0.05) and FSH (mean difference: -16.46; p < 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, patients affected by PE may significantly benefit from oral therapy with a combination of tryptophan, Satureja montana, Tribulus terrestris, Phyllanthus emblica extracts in terms of IELT and PEDT scores improvement.
Serenoa repens associated with selenium and lycopene extract and bromelain and methylsulfonylmethane extract are able to improve the efficacy of levofloxacin in chronic bacterial prostatitis patients
Authors: Cai Tommaso , Tiscione Daniele , Gallelli Luca , Verze Paolo , Palmieri Alessandro , Mirone Vincenzo , Bartoletti Riccardo , Malossini Gianni
Published: November 2016

Objective: To date, the management of patients with chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP) is not satisfactory, especially in terms of symptoms relief. Here, we evaluated the efficacy and the safety of a combination of serenoa repens, selenium and lycopene extract + bromelain and methylsulfonylmethane extract associated with levofloxacin in patients with CBP. Materials and methods: All patients with clinical and instrumental diagnosis of CBP, admitted to a single Urological Institution from March to June 2015 were enrolled in this phase III study. All enrolled patients were randomized into two groups: Group A received levofloxacin 500 mg o.d. for 14 days associated with lycopene and methylsulfonylmethane; Group B received levofloxacin (500 mg o.d. for 14 days) only. Clinical and microbiological analyses were carried out at the time of admission (T0) and during the followups at 1 month (T1) and 6 months (T2) from the end of the treatment. NIH Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (CPSI), International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS) and Quality of Well-Being (QoL) questionnaires were used. The main outcome measures were the rate of microbiological cure and the improvement in questionnaire results from baseline at the end of the follow-ups period. Results: Forty patients were enrolled in Group A and 39 in Group B. During the follow-up (T1), we recorded a significant changes in terms of NIH-CPSI and IPSS in Group A (mean difference: 17.6 ± 2.65; 12.2 ± 2.33; p < 0.01; p < 0.05, respectively) and versus Group B at the intergroup analysis (mean difference: -9 ± 1.82; -8.33 ± 1.71; p < 0.05; p < 0.05, respectively). No differences were reported in terms of microbiological findings between the two groups. At the second follow-up visit (T2), questionnaire results demonstrated statistically significant differences between groups (p < 0.001). One patient in Group A (2.5%) and 7 patients (17.9%) in Group B showed a symptomatic and microbiological recurrence (p = 0.02). Conclusions: The combination of serenoa repens, selenium, lycopene + bromelain and methylsulfonylmethane extracts improved the clinical efficacy of levofloxacin in patients affected by CBP without the development of side effects.
Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), regular and small sized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in daily practice: European Association of Urology Section of Urolithiasis (EULIS) Survey
Authors: Zanetti Stefano Paolo , Boeri Luca , Catellani Michele , Gallioli Andrea , Trinchieri Alberto , Sarica Kemal , Montanari Emanuele
Published: November 2016

Objective: A wide selection of both anterograde and retrograde mini-invasive procedures exist for stones’ treatment. The 2016 European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines still don’t univocally define a best option. Our purpose is to give an overview on some European Stone Centers’ customs and to compare real life clinical practice with statements of opinion leaders and Guidelines. Materials and Methods: In 2015 we performed a survey in 3 step about the spread of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) techniques among EAU Section of Urolithiasis (EULIS) members. The 1st and 2nd steps dealt with the definition of EULIS urologist and department by collecting personal opinions about the endoscopic techniques. The third step was about clinical results. This paper presents data from the first two steps. Results: Ninety-one people answered. Out of them, 80% are European and 42% work in Centres fully dedicated to stone treatment. In particular, 50% of responders perform more than 80 RIRS/year, 25% more than 80 PCNL/year, 48% more than 100 extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL)/year. RIRS is mainly used to treat stones < 2 cm both as primary treatment and after SWL failure. 73% don’t perform routine pre-stenting and 66% ordinarily use a ureteral sheath. Hospital stay for RIRS is 24h for 70% of responders. Regular PCNL is performed by 87% of the responders, MiniPCNL by 58%, Ultra-MiniPCNL by 23% and MicroPCNL by 28%. Pneumatic balloon dilation is the favourite dilation technique (49%). 37% of responders perform PCNL always in the supine position, 21% always in the prone one. Almost all the responders agree about using Mini, Ultra-Mini and MicroPCNL for 1-2 cm stones. Approximately 50% also use MiniPCNL for stones > 2 cm. Conclusion: our survey confirms the great heterogeneity existing in stones’ treatment techniques in daily practice.
Non sex-related subtotal rupture of the corpus cavernosum without urethral injury: A case report and literature review
Authors: Bayraktar Zeki , Albayrak Selami
Published: November 2016

Although penile fracture is a rare case, it is a well-described urologic emergency. It results from the rupture of the tunica albuginea of corpora cavernosa by blunt strain that commonly mandates immediate surgical exploration. Urethral injury may also accompany penile fracture. An ideal anamnesis and a special physical examination were determinant to achieve a correct diagnosis. It is usually diagnosed based on clinical examination, but ultrasonography can be very helpful in diagnosis. The treatment is based on the presence of associated urethral injury. Early surgery is preferable to conservative management, because it is associated with better outcomes and fewer long-term complications. The surgical repair of cavernous body can produce good results, with a favorable prognosis and minimal rate of complications. We present a penile fracture case of 34-year-old with subtotal rupture of the right corpus cavernosum without urethral injury who treated by early surgery and good results.
Fournier's gangrene: Clinical case and review of the literature
Authors: Pernetti Remigio , Palmieri Fabiano , Sagrini Elisabetta , Negri Marco , Morisi Claudio , Carbone Andrea , Bassi Paolo , Voce Salvatore
Published: November 2016

Fournier's gangrene is a life-threatening acute necrotizing fasciitis of perianal,genitourinary and perineal areas. Nowadays, is well known that Fournier gangrene is almost never an idiopathic disease. In this article we report a case of a 70-year-old patient that initially was not treated properly. The gold standard therapy of the Fournier's gangrene remains today a complete, early and extended surgical debridement.
A rubber tube in the bladder as a complication of autoerotic stimulation of the urethra
Authors: Stamatiou Konstantinos , Moschouris Hippocrates
Published: November 2016

Self-insertion of foreign bodies in the urethra is most commonly associated with sexual or erotic arousal of adolescents with mental health disorders. Rarely it may practiced by healthy adults for masturbation. Migration of foreign bodies used for the abovementioned purpose from the urethra to adjacent organs is a relatively uncommon urologic problem that may cause serious complications which arose tardive. Presentation includes a variety of acute or chronic symptoms that depend of the underlying complications. The method of extraction depends on the shape, size and nature of the object and should be tailored according to the condition of the patient. In the present article we present a case of a rubber tube inserted to the urethra for erotic arousal purposes which migrated to the bladder during masturbation.
Ultrasonographic study of subcutaneous penile granuloma secondary to silicone injection
Authors: Dell'Atti Lucio
Published: November 2016

Penile augmentation has been reported in the literature by injecting various materials. This study reports our experience in management of penile augmentation complications associated with selfpenile injection of silicone liquid. After a careful ultrasound study, the penile skin was excised through a circumferential sub-coronal incision and dissected with the silicon mass. Histology was well-compatible with silicone granulomas. The patient was discharged after 24 hours. Ultrasonography has permitted preoperatively to determine if the plane between the indurated inflammatory tissue and the Buck’s fascia was preserved for the complete surgical excision of affected tissue.
Primary pure carcinoid tumour of the testis: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Takada Hideki , Iwatsuki Shoichiro , Itoh Yasunori , Sato Shinya , Hayase Masa , Yasui Takahiro
Published: November 2016

Primary testicular carcinoid tumours (TCT) are very rare, and a large tumour size and the presence of carcinoid syndrome predict a malignant course. Histologically, it is difficult to differentiate between benign and malignant TCTs. We report a case of a primary pure TCT with an unusual presentation in a 23- year-old man, who had an asymptomatic, enlarged scrotum on the right side for 7 years. On gross examination, the tumour was 9.6 cm in diameter. The Ki-67 labelling index was 19.8%. High inguinal orchidectomy was performed, and 30 months after surgery the patient remains asymptomatic.
Treatment of Refractory Anemia with Ring Sideroblasts Associated with Marked Thrombocytosis with Lenalidomide in a Patient testing Negative for 5q Deletion and JAK2 V617F and MPL W515K/L Mutations
Authors: Keen Ryan , Pantin Jeremy , Savage Natasha , Dainer Paul M.
Published: November 2016

Refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts associated with marked thrombocytosis (RARS-T) is a hematologic malignancy that often results in transfusion dependency and a hypercoagulable state. This rare disease currently lacks formal guidelines for treatment; however, various case reports have demonstrated efficacy in the use of lenalidomide. This immunomodulatory drug has shown promise in patients with 5q deletions, with reports of achieving transfusion independence and normalization of platelet counts. Herein we present the case of a 68-year-old African American woman with RARS-T who tested negative for 5q deletion and JAK2 V617F and MPL W515K/L mutations. Her treatment with lenalidomide therapy resulted in a five-year durable complete clinical response.
Romidepsin Controls Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia in a Patient with Mycosis Fungoides
Authors: Lemchak David M. , Akilov Oleg E.
Published: November 2016

Romidepsin belongs to a class of medications called histone deacetylase inhibitors and is currently approved for treatment of cutaneous and peripheral T-cell lymphomas. Romidepsin was previously investigated for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and demonstrated potential benefit, but interest in its use declined following phase I clinical trials that showed poor tolerance of a significant side effect profile. We presented a patient with a history of stage II CLL, referred to dermatology for treatment of new-onset of mycosis fungoides (MF), who was treated with romidepsin over seven months. The patient achieved a partial response with 50% decrease in body surface area occupied by MF, thinning of remaining plaques, and near complete response in his CLL. His absolute lymphocyte count remained within the normal range for four months following discontinuation of romidepsin. Side effects were well-tolerated and did not limit therapy. Current literature on romidepsin is reviewed and compared to existing treatments for CLL.