bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anchoring of Cu(II)–vanillin Schiff base complex on MCM‐41: A highly efficient and recyclable catalyst for synthesis of sulfides and 5‐substituted 1H–tetrazoles and oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides
Authors: Khanmoradi Maryam , Nikoorazm Mohsen , Ghorbani‐Choghamarani Arash
Published: January 2017

A copper(II)–vanillin complex was immobilized onto MCM‐41 nanostructure and was used as an inexpensive, non‐toxic and heterogeneous catalyst in the synthesis of symmetric aryl sulfides by the cross‐coupling of aromatic halides with S8 as an effective sulfur source, in the oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides using 30% H2O2 as a green oxidant and in the synthesis of 5‐substituted 1H–tetrazoles from a smooth (3 + 2) cycloaddition of organic nitriles with sodium azide (NaN3). The products were obtained in good to excellent yields. This catalyst could be reused several times without loss of activity. Characterization of the catalyst was performed using Fourier transform infrared, energy‐dispersive X‐ray and atomic absorption spectroscopies, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning and transmission electron microscopies.
Effect of bone‐like hydroxyapatite/poly amino acid loaded with rifapentine microspheres on bone and joint tuberculosis in vitro
Authors: Liu Yuwu , Jiang Dianming
Published: January 2017

Rifapentine‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microspheres (RPMs)‐loaded bone‐like hydroxyapatite/poly amino acid (BHA/PAA) is effective in curing Staphylococcus aureus‐induced chronic osteomyelitis. This study continues to investigate the effect of RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA on the bacterial growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), cell proliferation and differentiation in MTB H37Rv‐infected MG63 cells. Furthermore, whether Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway was activated by RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA was explored. We found the bactec growth index of H37Rv was significantly inhibited by RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA. The MTT assay showed that RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA could promote the cell proliferation of H37Rv‐infected MG63 cells, as determined by MTT assay. The alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and the expression of runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and osteocalcin (OCN) was examined by commercial kit and Western blot analysis to determine the effect of RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA on MTB H37Rv‐infected MG63 cell differentiation. It was revealed that RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA could promote cell differentiation of H37Rv‐infected MG63 cells. Furthermore, we found the expression of Wnt1, LDL receptor related protein 6 (Lrp6) and β‐catenin was significantly increased in H37Rv‐infected MG63 cells following treatment with RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA, as determined by Western blot analysis. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA has an effective activity against MTB. RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA promoted cell proliferation and cell differentiation of H37Rv‐infected MG63 cells. Wnt/β‐catenin signaling could be activated by RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA in MG63 cells infected with H37Rv. This study demonstrated the potential value of RPM‐loaded BHA/PAA in treating bone and joint TB, and suggested Wnt/β‐catenin signaling may be an important pathway underlying its function.
Treatment and repair of uterine scar dehiscence during cesarean section
Authors: Sawada Masaaki , Matsuzaki Shinya , Nakae Ruriko , Iwamiya Tadashi , Kakigano Aiko , Kumasawa Keiichi , Ueda Yutaka , Endo Masayuki , Kimura Tadashi
Published: January 2017

Key Clinical Message

The incidence of cesarean section (c‐section) has increased worldwide. Because the major risk factor for uterine scar dehiscence (USD) is a previous c‐section, the rate of this complication has also increased. Its clinical significance and management strategies are unclear. Here, we discuss USD particularly pertaining to its surgical treatment.
Industrial Process Design for the Production of Aniline by Direct Amination
Authors: Driessen Rick T. , Kamphuis Peter , Mathijssen Lydwien , Zhang Ruo , van der Ham Louis G. J. , van den Berg Henk , Zeeuw Arend Jan
Published: January 2017

The objective is to design a plant from raw material to product for the production of aniline by direct amination of benzene. The process design is started on a conceptual level and ended on a basic engineering level as well as a techno‐economical evaluation. The amination of benzene by hydroxylamine was used as basis. For the production of hydroxylamine four routes are proposed. The most promising route is the chemical reduction of nitric oxide with hydrogen. The process evaluation shows that 27 % of the atomic nitrogen is lost. The atomic carbon efficiency is close to unity. Furthermore, a significant amount of steam can be produced. From an economical perspective, there is still room for improvement because the return of investment is quite low and the payback period is quite high.
Spectrum‐Based Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay for Selectively Determining CA125 in Greenish Waveband
Authors: Tan Xiao , Zhang Bin , Zhou Jie , Zou Guizheng
Published: January 2017

Spectrum‐based and color‐selective electrochemiluminescence (ECL) is crucial for the multicolored ECL assay strategy. Herein, a spectrum‐based ECL immunoassay of high color purity was performed on a home‐made ECL‐acquiring system by spectrally imaging the ECL emission of highly passivated CdSe nanocrystals (NCs), that is, the ECL tags, which were labelled onto sandwich‐type immuno‐complexes with CA125 as the target molecule. The ECL tags could give off efficient ECL around 555 nm with a full width at half‐maximum of 39 nm, so that the spectrum‐based ECL strategy could color‐selectively determine CA125 with a linear response range from 10−4 to 1 U/mL and a limit of detection of 5×10−5 U/mL. The intrinsically improved signal‐to‐noise ratio of ECL to fluorescence might eventually enable the spectrum‐based ECL immunoassay to be a promising alternative to the NCs‐based multicolored fluorescent assay strategy.
Verbal instructions influence pain thresholds assessment: A study using manual and electronic mechanical stimulators
Authors: Suzuki K. , Baad‐Hansen L. , Svensson P.
Published: January 2017

Background

Quantitative sensory testing (QST) relies on psychophysical techniques and instructions to test subjects. This study examined the effect of different verbal instructions for mechanical pain thresholds (MPTs) using two different stimulation techniques; weighted pinprick stimulators and an electronic von Frey device (EvF). The test–retest reliability and within session variability in the MPTs for each verbal instruction were compared in addition.

Methods

Sixteen healthy volunteers participated. The MPTs with two different verbal instructions (pinprick and pain) were evaluated with two different stimulation techniques at three test sites: on the skin of the right cheek (face), on the buccal gingival mucosa of the right upper premolar region (gingiva) and on the tip of the tongue (tongue). The exact same protocol was repeated 1–2 weeks later for test–retest reliability.

Results

The MPT values with pain instruction were significantly higher than the values with the pinprick instruction for all sites and both stimulation techniques (p < .001). The absolute values of MPT were affected by instruction differences but it did not seem to have a major impact on reliability, and there were no significant differences in within session variability (p > .079) between the two different verbal instructions (pinprick and pain).

Conclusions

The specific wording of standardized QST instructions resulted in significant differences in MPT values regardless of which of the two stimulation techniques were used; pinprick stimulators or EvF. This emphasizes the importance of careful standardization of QST instructions in addition to standardization of the stimulus application.

Significance

Quantitative sensory testing (QST) is a widely accepted tool for somatosensory testing and the reliability and variability in the QST test battery has been found to be acceptable. Changing minor details in the wording of standardized QST verbal instructions resulted in significant differences in mechanical pain thresholds. This emphasizes the importance of careful standardization of QST instructions in addition to standardization of the stimulus application.
Mechanistic and adsorption equilibrium studies of dibenzothiophene‐rich‐diesel on MnO2‐loaded‐activated carbon: Surface characterization
Authors: Al‐Ghouti Mohammad A. , Al‐Degs Yahya S. , Issa Ayman A. , Al Bakain Ramia Z. , Khraisheh Majeda A.
Published: January 2017

In this work, the preparation and characterization of MnO2‐modified‐activated carbon for selective removal of organosulfur compounds including dibenzothiophene were outlined. The deposited particles of the modifier were entrapped within the micropores and the resulting adsorbent was efficient to desulfurize in diesel with rich‐sulfur (7055 mgS kg−1). Removal of organosulfur compounds was positively correlated with the deposited MnO2 and the best efficiency was observed at surface loading 30.6%Mn. The comprehensive characterization tests indicated drastic changes in the physicochemical properties of the modified adsorbents. The main findings were: (a) particles of α‐MnO2 were accumulated within the microspores and (b) less acidic surface compared to activated carbon was created in all modifications. Scanning electron microscope pictures indicated the filling of the pores by particles of MnO2. The mechanisms of S‐compounds removal by the modified adsorbent were elucidated with the aid of Infrared spectral analysis. Adsorption isotherms of dibenzothiophene were measured and the data were presented by different models. Dubinin‐Radushkevich model confirmed that adsorption of dibenzothiophene was exothermic and both Jovanović and Langmuir models indicated the homogeneity of the modified surface. Jovanović model gave the best prediction of the maximum adsorption capacity. Combustion qualities of deeply desulfurized diesel were found within the regulated limits. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 903–913, 2017
Combined cycle power plant performance evaluation using exergy and energy analysis
Authors: Pattanayak Lalatendu , Sahu Jaya Narayan , Mohanty Pravakar
Published: January 2017

Performance evaluation of a combined cycle power plant (CCPP) is generally attempted using first law of thermodynamics based on energy and mass balance methodology. For detailed component wise performance analysis, exergy‐based evaluation based on second law of thermodynamics is gaining increasing importance. In this study, a CCPP consisting of triple pressure steam cycle with reheat is analyzed using both energy and exergy. Effect of ambient temperature, inlet and exhaust pressure loss, CCPP load, excess air percentage, cooling water temperature, and condenser vacuum has been investigated. Energy and exergy‐based performances are compared and presented. The simulation results show that efficiency of CCPP decreases with increase in the inlet and exhaust pressure loss and with increase in inlet air temperature to compressor. The total power output of CCPP decreases at higher inlet air temperature with increase of steam flow rate in bottoming cycle and increase in compressor power consumption. The exergy efficiency of combustion chamber, heat recovery steam generator, and condenser are found to be 77.48%, 87.20%, and 29%, respectively; and the overall exergy and energy efficiency of the unit at 100% design and operating condition is found to be 54.09%, 58.26% and 53.92%, 57.10%, respectively. The overall exergetic efficiency of the CCPP can be improved by reducing the losses in bottoming cycle. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1180–1186, 2017
Development and application of benthic algal reference condition models to assess stream condition in the South Nahanni Watershed
Authors: Thomas Kathryn E , Hall Roland I , Scrimgeour Garry J
Published: January 2017

Monitoring biologists continually strive to improve the effectiveness of protocols to quantify environmental and ecological effects of anthropogenic activities. We developed and applied a reference condition approach (RCA) model to assess the ability of 3 descriptors of algal community structure (algal taxonomy, diatom taxonomy, and algal pigments) to identify impairment in 2 northern rivers in the South Nahanni River Watershed, Northwest Territories, Canada. We established reference conditions by sampling 62 regional reference (i.e., minimally disturbed) sites in 2008 (n = 44) and 2009 (n = 18) and assessed the condition of 38 test sites downstream of 2 mines in 2008 (N = 20 sites) and 2009 (N = 18 sites). Patterns of impairment downstream of the 2 mines were assessed and zones of influence were identified for each algal descriptor. Results showed that the 3 RCA models using the 3 descriptors of algal community structure identified reasonably consistent assessments downstream of Prairie Creek mine with changes in algal pigments being more sensitive than the other 2 descriptors. In Flat River, however, assessment of test sites varied considerably depending on the descriptor of algal community structure. Our results suggest that benthic algal RCA models show promise as biological monitoring tools, but additional investigations are required to better understand variance in site assessments among the 3 algal community descriptors. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:728–745. © 2016 SETAC

Key Points

Results showed that the 3 reference condition approach (RCA) models using the 3 descriptors of algal community structure identified reasonably consistent assessments downstream of 1 mine, with changes in algal pigments being more sensitive compared to the other 2 descriptors. Downstream of a second mine, however, assessment of test sites varied considerably, depending on the descriptor of algal community structure. Our results show that benthic algal RCA models have promise as biological monitoring tools, but additional investigations are required to better understand variance in site assessments among the 3 algal community descriptors. We believe that presenting data that shows promise but also providing results that do not work as well is helpful in moving knowledge of RCA models forward.
IRF4 rs12203592 functional variant and melanoma survival
Authors: Potrony Miriam , Rebollo‐Morell Aida , Giménez‐Xavier Pol , Zimmer Lisa , Puig‐Butille Joan Anton , Tell‐Marti Gemma , Sucker Antje , Badenas Celia , Carrera Cristina , Malvehy Josep , Schadendorf Dirk , Puig Susana
Published: January 2017

Inherited genetic factors may modulate clinical outcome in melanoma. Some low‐to‐medium risk genes in melanoma susceptibility play a role in melanoma outcome. Our aim was to assess the role of the functional IRF4 SNP rs12203592 in melanoma prognosis in two independent sets (Barcelona, N = 493 and Essen, N = 438). Genotype association analyses showed that the IRF4 rs12203592 T allele increased the risk of dying from melanoma in both sets (Barcelona: odds ratio [OR] = 6.53, 95% CI 1.38–30.87, Adj p = 0.032; Essen: OR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.04–2.72, Adj p = 0.035). Survival analyses only showed significance for the Barcelona set (hazard ratio = 4.58, 95% CI 1.11–18.92, Adj p = 0.036). This SNP was also associated with tumour localization, increasing the risk of developing melanoma in head or neck (OR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.07–2.98, Adj p = 0.032) and protecting from developing melanoma in the trunk (OR = 0.59, 95% CI 0.41–0.85, Adj p = 0.004). These findings suggest for the first time that IRF4 rs12203592 plays a role in the modulation of melanoma outcome and confirms its contribution to the localization of the primary tumour.
Observational study comparing the performance of first‐trimester screening protocols for detecting trisomy 21 in a North Indian population
Authors: Kaul Anita , Singh Chanchal , Gupta Rachna , Arora Nidhi , Gupta Abha
Published: January 2017

Objective

To evaluate first‐trimester screening protocols for detecting trisomy 21 in an Indian population.

Methods

The present prospective study collected data from women with singleton pregnancies and a crown‐to‐rump length of 45–84 mm who presented at the fetal medicine unit of a tertiary care center in North India between June 1, 2006, and December 31, 2015, for combined first‐trimester screening. Maternal age, nuchal translucency, nasal bone, and maternal serum levels of free beta human chorionic gonadotropin and pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A were assessed for calculating the risk of trisomy 21. Tricuspid regurgitation and qualitative analysis of ductus venosus data were available from June 2010, and were included where available. Trisomy‐21 detection rates were calculated for various screening protocols and were compared.

Results

There were 4523 women screened and 24 records of trisomy 21. Combined screening with maternal age, nuchal translucency, nasal bone, tricuspid regurgitation, and ductus venosus demonstrated optimal detection and false‐positive rates of 93.8% and 1.9%, respectively. Screening using only maternal age yielded a detection rate of 37.5%; using fixed nuchal translucency cut‐off values of 2.5 and 3 mm resulted in detection rates of 66.7% and 37.5%, respectively.

Conclusion

Combined first‐trimester screening performed well in an Indian population; combining maternal age, nuchal translucency, nasal bone, ductus venosus, and tricuspid regurgitation yielded the most accurate screening.
Preferential recognition of auto‐antibodies against 4‐hydroxynonenal modified DNA in the cancer patients
Authors: Faisal Mohammad , Shahab Uzma , Alatar Abdulrahman A. , Ahmad Saheem
Published: January 2017

Background

The structural perturbations in DNA molecule may be caused by a break in a strand, a missing base from the backbone, or a chemically changed base. These alterations in DNA that occurs naturally can result from metabolic or hydrolytic processes. DNA damage plays a major role in the mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, aging and various other patho‐physiological conditions. DNA damage can be induced through hydrolysis, exposure to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other reactive carbonyl metabolites including 4‐hydroxynonenal (HNE). 4‐HNE is an important lipid peroxidation product which has been implicated in the mutagenesis and carcinogenesis processes.

Methods

The present study examines to probe the presence of auto‐antibodies against 4‐hydroxynonenal damaged DNA (HNE–DNA) in various cancer subjects. In this study, the purified calf thymus DNA was damaged by the action of 4‐HNE. The DNA was incubated with 4‐HNE for 24 h at 37°C temperature. The binding characteristics of cancer auto‐antibodies were assessed by direct binding and competitive inhibition ELISA.

Results

DNA modifications produced hyperchromicity in UV spectrum and decreased fluorescence intensity. Cancer sera exhibited enhanced binding with the 4‐HNE modified calf thymus DNA as compared to its native conformer. The 4‐HNE modified DNA presents unique epitopes which may be one of the factors for the auto‐antibody induction in cancer patients.

Conclusion

The HNE modified DNA presents unique epitopes which may be one of the factors for the autoantibody induction in cancer patients.
Disrupting Leadership Focus by Facilitating Social Construction of Followership in the Classroom: Student Responses to a Visual Method Pedagogy
Authors: Morris Rachael , Corlett Sandra
Published: January 2017

When followership is incorporated into the classroom, it is often an adjunct to leadership and its theories and, thus, opportunities for the social construction of followership are diminished. The current paper provides insights into classroom practices used to develop students' constructions of followership through reflective and visual teaching strategies, facilitating co‐construction of meaning in the classroom. An agenda for increased focus on followership learning, underpinned by visual method pedagogy, is provided to inform and inspire others to apply this disruption in mainstream leadership programs across other academic (and corporate) institutions.
What Is Toxic Followership?
Authors: Thomas Ted A. , Gentzler Kevin , Salvatorelli Robert
Published: January 2017

There has been some discussion on the subject of toxic followership, but it is as yet ill‐defined and deserves further evaluation and study. The current paper examines toxic followership using Kelley's typology of followers and provides potential methods of mitigating toxic followership. Just as toxic leaders harm organizations, so too can toxic followers. They both can cause good people to leave an organization, and put the organization's survival at risk.
A nomogram to predict distant metastasis after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and radical surgery in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Sun Yanwu , Lin Huiming , Lu Xingrong , Huang Ying , Xu Zongbin , Huang Shenghui , Wang Xiaojie , Chi Pan
Published: January 2017

PURPOSE

To compare distant metastasis (DM) in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) and surgery alone, and to develop a predictive nomogram for DM following nCRT.

METHODS

Propensity‐scoring match analysis was performed to compare DM in LARC treated with nCRT (n = 375) and surgery alone (n = 375). Cox regression was performed to identify predictors of DM following nCRT. A nomogram was developed and validated by internal (n = 425) and external validation (n = 97).

RESULTS

The 5‐year local recurrence rate was significantly lower in the nCRT group (5.6% vs. 10.4%; P = 0.020). The 5‐year DM rates (nCRT vs. surgery alone: 25.3% vs. 24.4%; P = 0.235) were similar between groups. Cox regression showed that the post‐nCRT pathologic stage (ypTNM stage, OR = 2.022, P = 0.002), IMA nodal metastasis (OR = 2.171, P = 0.023), and CRM involvement (OR = 2.535, P = 0.016) were independently associated with DM following nCRT. A predictive nomogram was developed with a C‐index of 0.70 on internal validation, and 0.71 on the external validation.

CONCLUSION

NCRT improved local control, but not distant metastasis. A nomogram to predict 3‐ and 5‐year DM rates, using clinicopathological parameters, was successfully developed. This prognostic tool could support decision‐making in clinical practice and follow‐up strategies.
Nanostructured Surfaces through Immobilization of Self‐Assembled Polymer Architectures Using Thiol–Ene Chemistry
Authors: Gunkel‐Grabole Gesine , Palivan Cornelia , Meier Wolfgang
Published: January 2017

An efficient strategy for engineering nanostructured surfaces by coupling soft polymeric nanoarchitectures to functionalized surfaces is presented. Self‐assembly of polymeric nanoarchitectures from amphiphilic triblock copolymers can yield both filled and hollow spherical nanoarchitectures, depending on the properties of the polymer chosen. These nanoarchitectures are immobilized on solid substrates via a biocompatible thiol–ene reaction, and conditions are optimized to maintain structural integrity of polymeric assemblies. Two routes of surface modification are also implemented to allow inclusion of a polymeric spacer that can mediate between soft polymeric assemblies and solid substrates. Nanostructured surfaces with both filled and hollow nanoarchitectures attached to the surface directly or with a spacer are successfully generated with this protocol. This concept of generating nanostructured surfaces using preassembled polymeric architectures is an important step toward active surfaces, because entrapment of active molecules in the nanoarchitectures prior to their immobilization opens the door to easy generation of surfaces with predetermined activities.

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Effect of copper ion and soil humic acid on biodegradation of decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE‐209) by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Liu Yu , Gong Aijun , Qiu Lina , Li Jingrui , Li Fukai
Published: January 2017

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a good environmental microorganism capable of degrading decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE‐209). This paper studied the effect of Cu2+ and humic acid (HA) extracted from e‐waste contaminated soils on biodegradation of BDE‐209 by P. aeruginosa. The adsorption isotherms of Cu2+ on HA, the crude enzyme activity, cell surface morphology, and biodegradation pathway were also investigated. The results showed that BDE‐209 biodegradation by P. aeruginosa was inhibited at Cu2+ concentrations above 5 mg L−1, but exhibited the best effect at the condition of 40 mg L−1 Cu2+ + 3 g L−1 HA. At the condition of 40 mg L−1 Cu2+ + 3 g L−1 HA, 97.35 ± 2.33% of the initial BDE‐209 was degraded after 5 days, debromination efficiency was 72.14 ± 1.89%, crude enzyme activity reached the maximum of 0.519 ± 0.022U g−1 protein, cell surface of P. aeruginosa was smooth with normal short‐rod shapes, and biodegradation pathway mainly include debromination, hydroxylation, and cleavage of the diphenyl ether bond. It was suggested that soil HA could eliminate the toxic effect of high Cu2+ concentrations and biodegradation of BDE‐209 was improved by synergistic effect of HA and Cu2+.
A portal dosimetry dose prediction method based on collapsed cone algorithm using the clinical beam model
Authors: Martínez Ortega J. , Gómez González N. , Castro Tejero P. , Pinto Monedero M. , Tolani N. B. , Núñez Martín L. , Sánchez Montero R.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Amorphous silicon electronical portal imaging devices (EPIDs) are widely used for dosimetric measurements in Radiation Therapy. The purpose of this work was to determine if a portal dose prediction method can be utilized for dose map calculations based on the linear accelerator model within a commercial treatment planning system (Pinnacle3 v8.0 m).

Methods

The method was developed for a 6 MV photon beam on the Varian Clinac 21‐EX, at a nominal dose rate of 400 MU/min. The Varian aS1000 EPID was unmounted from the linear accelerator and scanned to acquire CT images of the EPID. The CT images were imported into Pinnacle3 and were used as a quality assurance phantom to calculate dose on the EPID setup at a source to detector distance of 105 cm. The best match of the dose distributions was obtained considering the image plane located at 106 cm from the source to detector plane. The EPID was calibrated according to the manufacturer procedure and corrections were made for output factors. Arm‐backscattering effect, based on profile correction curves, has been introduced. Five low‐modulated and three high‐modulated clinical planned treatments were predicted and measured with the method presented here and with MatriXX (IBA Dosimetry, Schwarzenbruck, Germany).

Results

A portal dose prediction method based on Pinnacle3 was developed without modifying the commissioned parameters of the model in use in the clinic. CT images of the EPID were acquired and used as a quality assurance phantom. The CT images indicated a mean density of 1.16 g/cm3 for the sensitive area of the EPID. Output factor measured with the EPID were lower for small fields and larger for larger fields (beyond 10 × 10 cm2). Arm‐backscatter correction showed a better agreement at the target side of the EPID. Analysis of Gamma index comparison (3%, 3 mm) indicated a minimum of 97.4% pass rate for low modulated and 98.3% for high modulated treatments. Pass rates were similar for MatriXX measurements.

Conclusions

The method developed here can be easily implemented into clinic, as neither additional modeling of the clinical energy nor an independent image prediction algorithm are necessary. The main advantage of this method is that portal dose prediction is calculated with the same algorithm and beam model used for patient dose distribution calculation. This method was independently validated with an ionization chamber matrix.
Comparison of five cluster validity indices performance in brain [18F]FET‐PET image segmentation using k‐means
Authors: Abualhaj Bedor , Weng Guoyang , Ong Melissa , Attarwala Ali Asgar , Molina Flavia , Büsing Karen , Glatting Gerhard
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Dynamic [18F]fluoro‐ethyl‐L‐tyrosine positron emission tomography ([18F]FET‐PET) is used to identify tumor lesions for radiotherapy treatment planning, to differentiate glioma recurrence from radiation necrosis and to classify gliomas grading. To segment different regions in the brain k‐means cluster analysis can be used. The main disadvantage of k‐means is that the number of clusters must be pre‐defined. In this study, we therefore compared different cluster validity indices for automated and reproducible determination of the optimal number of clusters based on the dynamic PET data.

Methods

The k‐means algorithm was applied to dynamic [18F]FET‐PET images of 8 patients. Akaike information criterion (AIC), WB, I, modified Dunn's and Silhouette indices were compared on their ability to determine the optimal number of clusters based on requirements for an adequate cluster validity index. To check the reproducibility of k‐means, the coefficients of variation CVs of the objective function values OFVs (sum of squared Euclidean distances within each cluster) were calculated using 100 random centroid initialization replications RCI100 for 2 to 50 clusters. k‐means was performed independently on three neighboring slices containing tumor for each patient to investigate the stability of the optimal number of clusters within them. To check the independence of the validity indices on the number of voxels, cluster analysis was applied after duplication of a slice selected from each patient. CVs of index values were calculated at the optimal number of clusters using RCI100 to investigate the reproducibility of the validity indices. To check if the indices have a single extremum, visual inspection was performed on the replication with minimum OFV from RCI100.

Results

The maximum CV of OFVs was 2.7 × 10−2 from all patients. The optimal number of clusters given by modified Dunn's and Silhouette indices was 2 or 3 leading to a very poor segmentation. WB and I indices suggested in median 5, [range 4–6] and 4, [range 3–6] clusters, respectively. For WB, I, modified Dunn's and Silhouette validity indices the suggested optimal number of clusters was not affected by the number of the voxels. The maximum coefficient of variation of WB, I, modified Dunn's, and Silhouette validity indices were 3 × 10−2, 1, 2 × 10−1 and 3 × 10−3, respectively. WB‐index showed a single global maximum, whereas the other indices showed also local extrema.

Conclusion

From the investigated cluster validity indices, the WB‐index is best suited for automated determination of the optimal number of clusters for [18F]FET‐PET brain images for the investigated image reconstruction algorithm and the used scanner: it yields meaningful results allowing better differentiation of tissues with higher number of clusters, it is simple, reproducible and has an unique global minimum.
Sex and dark times’ strategy: The Dark Triad and time perspective
Authors: Moraga Fernando R. G. , Nima Ali A. , Garcia Danilo
Published: January 2017

We investigated the effect of sex on associations between dark traits and time perspective dimensions. Responses by participants (N = 338) to the Short Dark Triad Inventory and the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory showed that while sex was involved in different time perspective associations of Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism, it did not moderate the dark times’ strategy.
Photoelectric properties of ABA‐type triblock copolymers designed using fluorine‐containing polyimide macroinitiators with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane
Authors: Sato Shuichi , Ichikawa Masato , Suzuki Erika , Matsumoto Hironaga , Nagai Kazukiyo
Published: January 2017

4,4′‐(Hexafluoro‐isopropylidene) diphthalic anhydride‐2,3,5,6‐tetramethyl‐1,4‐phenylenediamine (6FDA‐TeMPD) was synthesized and reacted with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) to form an ABA‐type triblock copolymer by atom transfer radical polymerization. The solid‐state and optical properties of the resulting copolymers were systematically investigated, and their electronic states were analyzed. As the POSS concentration increased, the transparency across the entire wavelength range increased. In the ABA‐type triblock copolymers, a new transition was observed between the highest occupied molecular orbital in POSS and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital in 6FDA‐TeMPD because of their high molecular size dispersion. Since the refractive index of 6FDA‐TeMPD decreased linearly as the POSS concentration increased, the refractive index of the ABA‐type triblock copolymers of 6FDA‐TeMPD with POSS could be easily controlled. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:1207–1213, 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
A study of repeated lateral pinch grip in myotonic dystrophy
Authors: Nitz Jennifer , Burns Yvonne , Wuthapanich Nampech , Jackson Richard
Published: January 2017

Background and Purpose. Subjects with myotonic dystrophy present with progressive muscle weakness, myotonia and fatigue. The aim of this study was to determine whether there was a difference in response to fatiguing exercise in myotonic dystrophy individuals compared to normal subjects. If no difference was found, a similar response to a physiotherapy exercise programme as seen in normal subjects might be expected. Method. Ten individuals with myotonic dystrophy were compared to eight normal subjects in their response to ten repetitions of maximal lateral pinch grip efforts each five seconds in duration and separated by a ten‐second rest. The root mean square (RMS) values, initial median frequency (Fmed) and slope of the median frequencies were recorded by electromyography (EMG) for the first dorsal interosseus, flexor pollicis brevis, flexor digitorum profundus and extensor digitorum communis muscles in the forearm and hand. Simultaneously, the rate of grip development, rate of grip release and work done during each grip effort were recorded by dynamometer. The RMS values for all muscles from subjects with myotonic dystrophy increased over the ten repetitions. Results. The initial Fmed for all myotonic dystrophy muscles was lower than for the normal subjects. The Fmed slopes for the first and last repetition showed no significant difference to the normal subjects. Rate of grip development was no different between groups over ten repetitions. Rate of grip release was slower and work done less for the individuals with myotonic dystrophy. Conclusion. Results suggest the main difference between muscles affected by myotonic dystrophy and normal ones was the smaller size of muscle fibres. The increase in rate of grip release that was found is supportive of the ‘warm‐up’ phenomenon. This appears to indicate that muscles affected by myotonic dystrophy could benefit from standard physiotheraputic exercise methods.
CDAI: a novel collaborative detection approach for impersonation attacks in vehicular ad‐hoc networks
Authors: Pougajendy Jayashree , Parthiban Arun Raj Kumar
Published: January 2017

Ensuring security in vehicular ad‐hoc networks remains a challenging task because of the high mobility of vehicles and the wireless communication environment. The wireless environment, which is un‐trusted, paves a way for the attackers to perform various attacks at the cost of time, money, safety and human lives. One such attack that needs attention is the impersonation attack because of its ability to disrupt the proper functioning of the network. Existing defense mechanisms viz., public key infrastructure (PKI) methods incur infrastructural overheads, position based verification methods face limitations such as inadaptability to certain environments (one way roads, heavy traffic conditions), high storage, and communication overheads. In this paper, collaborative detection approach for impersonation attacks (CDAI), a position‐based verification scheme based on received signal strength, is proposed to overcome all the existing limitations. Further, a comparative study of CDAI and the existing non‐public key infrastructure defence methods are reported in the paper. Simulation experiments have been conducted on CDAI. From the simulation experiments, it is evident that CDAI achieves a detection rate of 97.85% and a false positive rate of 0.015%. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A collusion‐resistant dynamic key management scheme for WSNs
Authors: Zhan Furui , Yao Nianmin
Published: January 2017

Key management is an important security service for protecting wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Among various existing schemes, exclusion basis system (EBS) is a practical solution that can be easily implemented to provide long‐term and flexible protection for WSNs. The involved rekeying strategy in EBS can efficiently evict the compromised node and update the key system. However, the relatively small key pool leads to high correlation among the generated key rings. Consequently, it is almost impossible for EBS‐based schemes to efficiently defend collusion attack with their rekeying mechanisms. In this paper, we first analyze the impact of collusion attack on WSNs, especially that in the case where the keys of the compromised nodes can form a connected graph. Then, we propose a novel key management scheme based on EBS. The proposed scheme is termed as t‐EEBS because it can effectively resist the referred collusion attack formed by t(t > 1) nodes. Furthermore, we assume that the proposed scheme is implemented in hierarchical WSNs. In this case, two layers of t‐EEBS administrative keys are used. The upper layer is implemented among the base station and all cluster leaders, while the lower layer involves a t‐EEBS for each cluster. The results of performance evaluation show that the proposed scheme has better resistance to collusion attack than other schemes. Therefore, the proposed scheme can provide better security service for WSNs. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mining unit test cases to synthesize API usage examples
Authors: Ghafari Mohammad , Rubinov Konstantin , Pourhashem K. Mohammad Mehdi
Published: January 2017

Software developers study and reuse existing source code to understand how to properly use application programming interfaces (APIs). However, manually finding sufficient and adequate code examples for a given API is a difficult and a time‐consuming activity. Existing approaches to find or generate examples assume availability of a reasonable set of client code that uses the API. This assumption does not hold for newly released API libraries, non‐widely used APIs, nor private ones.

In this work we reuse the important information that is naturally present in test code to circumvent the lack of usage examples for an API when other sources of client code are not available. We propose an approach for automatically identifying the most representative API uses within each unit test case. We then develop an approach to synthesize API usage examples by extracting relevant statements representing the usage of such APIs. We compare the output of a prototype implementation of our approach to both human‐written examples and to a state‐of‐the‐art approach. The obtained results are encouraging; the examples automatically generated with our approach are superior to the state‐of‐the‐art approach and highly similar to the manually constructed examples.
DT2 fit of a high‐resolution EDS PIXE Yb2O3 spectrum
Authors: Reis M. A. , Chaves P. C.
Published: January 2017

Analysis of high‐resolution EDS particle X‐ray emission spectra is typically more complex than standard Si(Li) detector spectra analysis because of the need to carefully account for contributions from minor and satellite transitions. In this work, a pure Yb2O3 sample was irradiated at the high‐resolution high‐energy‐particle X‐ray emission setup of C2TN, and simultaneous CdTe and X‐ray microcalorimeter spectrometer spectra were collected covering both L and K lines. The Yb2O3 high‐resolution spectrum was analysed using the DT2 code that allows to include in the fitting model both diagram lines as well as multi‐ionisation satellites, radiative auger emission, energy shifted lines (chemical effects) and any other contributions. In this communication, we present the results of the fit of the high‐resolution Yb2O3 spectrum and discuss details and problems related to the transitions energy, intensity and line width data. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Single Best Answer Questions for the Final FFICM
Authors: Davies Keith , Gough Christopher , King Emma , Plumb Benjamin , Walton Benjamin
Published: January 2017

This is the first dedicated revision aid for the Single Best Answer component of the Final FFICM, added to the written examination in July 2014. It contains 240 SBA practice questions, divided into eight papers covering the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine curriculum. Each answer consists of a short explanation, allowing a quick review of the correct answer, and a long explanation, providing a more in-depth discussion of the question topic. All answers are also fully referenced, encouraging further reading and providing sources for more detailed study. In combination with the companion volume, Multiple True False Questions for the Final FFICM, this guide allows readers to access full written mock exams in the style and format of the official FFICM examination, and is an invaluable resource for trainees in intensive care medicine.
An invariant representation of mean inertia: theoretical basis for a log law in turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Morrill-Winter Caleb , Philip Jimmy , Klewicki Joseph
Published: January 2017

A refined scaling analysis of the two-dimensional mean momentum balance (MMB) for the zero-pressure-gradient turbulent boundary layer (TBL) is presented and experimentally investigated up to high friction Reynolds numbers, $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}^{+}$. For canonical boundary layers, the mean inertia, which is a function of the wall-normal distance, appears instead of the constant mean pressure gradient force in the MMB for pipes and channels. The constancy of the pressure gradient has led to theoretical treatments for pipes/channels, that are more precise than for the TBL. Elements of these analyses include the logarithmic behaviour of the mean velocity, specification of the Reynolds shear stress peak location, the square-root Reynolds number scaling for the log layer onset and a well-defined layer structure based on the balance of terms in the MMB. The present analyses evidence that similarly well-founded results also hold for turbulent boundary layers. This follows from transforming the mean inertia term in the MMB into a form that resembles that in pipes/channels, and is constant across the outer inertial region of the TBL. The physical reasoning is that the mean inertia is primarily a large-scale outer layer contribution, the ‘shape’ of which becomes invariant of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}^{+}$ with increasing $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}^{+}$, and with a ‘magnitude’ that is inversely proportional to $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}^{+}$. The present analyses are enabled and corroborated using recent high resolution, large Reynolds number hot-wire measurements of all the terms in the TBL MMB.
WHAT'S THE HARM IN POLYGAMY? MULTICULTURAL TOLERATION AND WOMEN'S EXPERIENCE OF PLURAL MARRIAGE
Authors: Joffe Lisa Fishbayn
Published: January 2017

The last decade has seen the publication in North America of a plethora of academic books and articles about polygamy. The most important texts on the subject, however, are two court rulings evaluating the constitutionality of criminal prohibitions against the practice of polygamy. Informed by and in dialogue with this academic discourse, these courts arrived at dramatically different conclusions. InReference re s. 293 of the Criminal Code of Canada, the Supreme Court of British Columbia determined that while Mormon fundamentalist polygamists had religious freedom rights under Section 2 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to practice this aspect of their bona fide religious faith, the government of Canada was justified in limiting this right under Section 1 of the Charter. Prohibiting polygamy was necessary, the court found, in order to prevent the real and substantial risk of harm that it posed to women and children.1Conversely, in the United States, a trial-level court in Utah issued a summary judgment finding that a criminal prohibition against polygamous religious marriages violated the rights to freedom of religion under the First Amendment, and due process rights guaranteed by the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution. This judgment focused on the state's duty to tolerate minority religious practices, while downplaying the potential risks of polygamy to practitioners and their children.2
How to detect an elusive aquatic mammal in complex environments? A study of the Endangered Antillean manateeTrichechus manatus manatusin French Guiana
Authors: Castelblanco-Martínez Delma Nataly , dos Reis Virginie , de Thoisy Benoit
Published: January 2017

The Antillean manateeTrichechus manatus manatusis a cryptic mammal that inhabits, among other areas, murky rivers and estuaries of Central and South America. The difficulty in detecting and counting manatees is an obstacle to monitoring their population status, as traditional count sampling is unsuitable. We conducted a quantitative analysis of the distribution and abundance of the manatee across its known range in the rivers and estuaries of French Guiana, based on data from a range-wide line transect visual survey combined with a side-scan sonar survey, identification of feeding sites, and silent observations at fixed points. A total effective effort of 248 hours and 1,129 km of boat survey was completed. We used two relative abundance indices: the combined encounter rate, which combines encounters per km from either visual or side-scan sonar surveys, and the global detection index, which is defined as the sum of all evidence per unit time. Manatees were detected in all nine study units. Niche modelling was used to analyse the space selection by manatees, and helped to detect differential use of habitats according to the season. The model predicted that coastal areas are used more extensively during the dry season. In the absence of better techniques to detect wild manatees in complex habitats this monitoring protocol may be relevant and replicable in hydrological systems where manatee detectability is constrained by biogeographical characteristics.
Local awareness and perceptions: consequences for conservation of marsh habitat at Lake Alaotra for one of the world's rarest lemurs
Authors: Waeber Patrick O. , Reibelt Lena M. , Randriamalala Ihoby H. , Moser Gabrielle , Raveloarimalala Lucile M. , Ralainasolo Fidy B. , Ratsimbazafy Jonah , Woolaver Lance
Published: January 2017

Management and monitoring of community-based protected areas in Madagascar remain challenging because of a lack of financial, human and technical resources, and capacity. At Lake Alaotra, conversion of marshland for rice cultivation and a lack of effective habitat protection have pushed the locally endemic Alaotra gentle lemur Hapalemur alaotrensis to the brink of extinction. The highest density of the species is found in the locally managed Park Bandro, a high-priority conservation zone within the Lake Alaotra New Protected Area. We evaluated local awareness and perceptions of Park Bandro, and discussed preferred management options with local communities. Two questionnaire surveys were carried out, one with 180 participants at six sites around the lake and marsh, and another with 50 participants in the village adjacent to Park Bandro. The majority of participants knew of the existence of Park Bandro but most did not know its purpose or size. Values and perceptions of local communities were influenced by occupation and distance to the Park, with fishers being most aware of the Park. We found that local people had a high level of environmental awareness and were willing to discuss zonation and alternative resource management strategies as long as these activities could provide a tangible livelihood benefit. Lack of awareness among local resource users regarding the purpose and status of protected areas such as Park Bandro is a challenge that needs to be addressed, and one that is relevant for environmental education and management of protected areas throughout Madagascar.