bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanics of a lipid bilayer subjected to thickness distension and membrane budding
Authors: Belay Tsegay , Chun IL Kim , Schiavone Peter
Published: September 2016

We study the distension-induced gradient capillarity in membrane bud formation. The budding process is assumed to be primarily driven by diffusion of transmembrane proteins and acting line tensions on the protein-concentrated interface. The proposed model, based on the Helfrich-type potential, is designed to accommodate inhomogeneous elastic responses of the membrane, non-uniform protein distributions over the membrane surface and, more importantly, the thickness distensions induced by bud formations in the membrane. The latter are employed via the augmented energy potential of bulk incompressibility in a weakened manner. By computing the variations of the proposed membrane energy potential, we obtained the corresponding equilibrium equation (membrane shape equation) describing the morphological transitions of the lipid membrane undergoing bud formation and the associated thickness distensions. The effects of lipid distension on the shape equation and the necessary adjustments to the accompanying boundary conditions are also derived in detail. The resulting shape equation is solved numerically for the parametric representation of the surface which has one-to-one-correspondence with the membrane surface under consideration. The proposed model successfully predicts the bud formation phenomenon on a flat lipid membrane and the associated thickness distensions of the membrane and demonstrates a smooth transition from one phase to the other (including necking domains). It is also found that the final deformed configuration is energetically favorable and therefore is stable. Finally, we show that the inhomogeneous thickness deformation on the membrane in response to transmembrane protein diffusion makes a significant contribution to the budding and necking processes of the membrane.
Fatigue damage characterisation of MarBN steel for high temperature flexible operating conditions
Authors: O’Hara EM , Harrison NM , Polomski BK , Barrett RA , Leen SB
Published: September 2016

This article is concerned with the high temperature low cycle fatigue behaviour of a new nano-strengthened martensitic-ferritic steel, MarBN. A range of strain-controlled, low cycle fatigue tests are presented on MarBN at 600 ℃ and 650 ℃, and compared with previously published data for a current state-of-the-art material, P91 steel, including microstructural analysis of the fracture mechanisms. A modified Chaboche damage law, incorporating Coffin–Manson life prediction, is implemented within a hyperbolic sine unified cyclic viscoplastic constitutive model. Calibration and validation of the model with respect to the effects of strain-rate and strain-range is performed based on an optimisation procedure for identification of the material parameters. The cyclic viscoplasticity model with damage successfully predicts fatigue damage evolution and life in the cyclically softening materials, MarBN and P91.
‘Reflections on a birthday’: An auto-ethnographic account of caring for a child with a learning disability
Authors: Gant Valerie
Published: September 2016

This commentary offers some of the author’s experiences of parenting a child with a severe learning disability and complex and challenging behaviours. Drawing on principles of auto-ethnography and critical reflection, the author considers issues of transition from children’s to adult social care services and the potential for support from a new piece of UK Legislation, the Care Act, 2014.
Mesopic increment detection sensitivity, Part I: Phenomenological analysis
Authors: Englisch D , Schiller C , Bodrogi P , Khanh TQ
Published: September 2016

Mesopic threshold detection sensitivity was investigated by projecting quasi-monochromatic incremental targets with 22 centroid wavelengths between 422 nm and 652 nm onto different backgrounds. Every detection target was observed by at least nine subjects under eight different viewing conditions: two mesopic luminance levels (0.1 cd/m2; 1 cd/m2) and four eccentricities of target appearance off the visual axis (0°, 2.65°, 10° and 20°). Results were expressed in terms of absolute detection sensitivity values, i.e. inverse increment radiance values for each target at the detection threshold in sr·m2·W−1 units. In this part, the experimental method is described, and the dataset is analysed in terms of retinal mechanisms.
A new rationale for setting light source luminous efficacy requirements
Authors: Rea MS , Bierman A
Published: September 2016

The photopic luminous efficiency function (V(λ)) is used internationally for the definition of light output from electric light sources (lumens) and thereby for regulating minimum luminous efficacy requirements (lumens per watt) for the manufacture and sale of light sources. V(λ) has, however, a long-wavelength spectral bias with respect to the overall spectral sensitivity of the human retina. When used in luminous efficacy regulations, the long-wavelength spectral bias of V(λ) effectively penalizes many of the benefits expected from lighting that can be provided by short-wavelength light (e.g. scene brightness, colour rendering, circadian regulation and off-axis detection). Regulators must use ad hoc reductions to luminous efficacy requirements for ‘cool’ light sources to ensure that lighting benefits can be provided to society. These reductions would be unnecessary if a luminous efficiency function representing the overall spectral sensitivity of the human retina were used instead of V(λ) in luminous efficacy regulations. The universal luminous efficiency function (U(λ)) is proposed as a replacement. Utilization of U(λ) would obviate ad hoc adjustments to regulations for ‘cool’ light sources, minimize wasted electric power imposed by regulations based upon V(λ), and perhaps most importantly, encourage manufacturers to produce light sources that efficiently provide multiple benefits to users.
A protective polyester fabric with magnetic properties using mixture of carbonyl iron and nano carbon black along with aluminium sputtering
Authors: Simayee Maedeh , Montazer Majid
Published: September 2016

In the present work, polyester fabric with protective and magnetic properties is introduced using mixture of micro magnetic carbonyl iron powder and nano carbon black through pad-dry-cure method and sputter coating with aluminium (Al). This leads to X-band microwave absorbing properties as the great demand for protective garment. The morphology, static magnetic and X-band microwave absorbing properties of the treated fabrics were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, vibrating sample magnetometer and vector network analyzer in the range of 8.2–12.4 GHz. Normal-angle X-ray diffraction was used to study the crystalline structure of treated PET fabric. Compared with the blank polyethylene terephthalate fabric without Al sputter coating, the presence of nano carbon black and carbonyl iron powder on the polyethylene terephthalate fabric sputter coated with aluminum exhibited higher microwave absorbing properties particularly in the primary range of 8.2–12.4 GHz. The results in the whole frequency range investigated were remarkable; however, the reflection loss was found to be lower than −5.9 dB in the entire frequency. The maximum reflection loss value was reached to −7.7 dB at the frequency of 8.2 GHz. Overall, the co-application of nano carbon black and carbonyl iron powders on the polyethylene terephthalate fabric opens up a new coating method for X-band microwave absorbing properties.
“My heart burns” – A qualitative study of perceptions and experiences of type 1 diabetes among children and youths in Tajikistan
Authors: Haugvik Severina , Beran David , Klassen Pamela , Hussain Akhtar , Haaland Ane
Published: September 2016

Aims

To explore and describe perceptions and experiences of living with type 1 Diabetes Mellitus among children/youths in Tajikistan.

Methods

Qualitative methods were employed. Participants were recruited through purposive and snowball samplings. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide with children/youths having diabetes, their parents as well as health professionals. Data were analyzed according to Malterud’s systematic text condensation.

Results

Children/youths with diabetes (n = 18), their parents (n = 19) and endocrinologists (n = 4) were interviewed. Families described unique stories in which “emotional stress” and a spiritual “evil eye” were perceived as possible causes of diabetes. Life-threatening complications and maltreatment preceding diagnosis of diabetes were frequent. From manifestation of diabetes onwards, families struggled with systemic and cultural obstacles, causing stigma, discrimination, high school-drop-out rates, diabetic coma, chronic complications or death of the child/youth with diabetes.

Conclusions

Results of this qualitative study highlight the severity and complexity of challenges families living with a child/youth having diabetes in this low-income country face. Efforts to improve life expectancy and life quality are strongly needed and require addressing both systemic and cultural factors in order to accomplish sustainable impact.
Results and Functional Outcomes of Structural Fresh Osteochondral Allograft Transfer for Treatment of Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus in a Highly Active Population
Authors: Orr Justin D. , Dunn John C. , Heida Kenneth A. , Kusnezov Nicholas A. , Waterman Brian R. , Belmont Philip J.
Published: September 2016

Introduction. Structural fresh osteochondral allograft transfer is an appropriate treatment option for large osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs), specifically lesions involving the shoulder of the talus. Sparse literature exists regarding functional outcome following this surgery in high-demand populations. Materials and Methods. Over a 2-year period, a single surgeon performed 8 structural allograft transfers for treatment of large OLTs in an active duty US military population. Lesion morphology and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) stage were recorded. Preoperative and latest postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot-ankle and pain visual analog scores were compared. Results. Eight male service members with mean age 34.4 years underwent structural allograft transfer for OLTs with mean MRI stage of 4.9 and a mean lesion volume of 2247.1 mm3. Preoperative mean AOFAS hindfoot-ankle score was 49.6, and mean pain visual analog score was 6.9. At mean follow-up of 28.5 months, postoperative mean AOFAS score was 73, and mean pain visual analog score was 4.5, representing overall improvements of 47% and 35%, respectively. Three patients were considered treatment failures secondary to continued ankle disability (2) or graft resorption requiring ankle arthrodesis. Conclusions. Despite modest improvements in short-term functional outcome scores, large osteochondral lesions requiring structural allograft transfer remain difficult to treat, particularly in high-demand patient populations. Surgeons should counsel patients preoperatively on realistic expectations for return to function following structural allograft transfer procedures.

Levels of Evidence: Level IV: Retrospective study
Long-term exposure to traffic-related air pollution and cancer among survivors of myocardial infarction: A 20-year follow-up study
Authors: Cohen Gali , Levy Ilan , Yuval  , Kark Jeremy D , Levin Noam , Broday David M , Steinberg David M , Gerber Yariv
Published: September 2016

Background

Previous studies suggested a carcinogenic effect of exposure to traffic-related air pollution. Recently, higher rates of cancer incidence were observed among myocardial infarction survivors compared with the general population. We examined the association between chronic exposure to nitrogen oxides, a proxy measure for traffic-related air pollution, and cancer incidence and mortality in a cohort of myocardial infarction patients.

Methods

Patients aged ≤65 years admitted to hospital in central Israel with a first myocardial infarction in 1992–1993 were followed to 2013 for cancer incidence and cause-specific mortality. Data on sociodemographic and cancer risk factors were obtained, including time-varying information on smoking. Using land use regression models, annual averages of nitrogen oxides during follow-up were estimated individually according to home addresses. Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to study the relationships with cancer outcomes.

Results

During a mean follow-up of 16 (SD 7) years, 262 incident cancers and 105 cancer deaths were identified among 1393 cancer-free patients at baseline (mean age 54 years; 81% men). In adjusted models, a 10 ppb increase in mean nitrogen oxide exposure was associated with a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.06 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.96–1.18) for cancer incidence and HR of 1.08 (95% CI 0.93–1.26) for cancer mortality. The association with lung, bladder, kidney or prostate cancer (previously linked to air pollution) was stronger (HR 1.16; 95% CI 1.00–1.33).

Conclusions

Chronic exposure to traffic-related air pollution may constitute an environmental risk factor for cancer post-myocardial infarction. Variation in the strength of association between specific cancers needs to be explored further.
Cryptogenic mechanism in ischaemic stroke patients is a predictor of 5-year survival: A population-based study
Authors: Timsit S , Bailly P , Nowak E , Merrien FM , Hervé D , Viakhireva-Dovganyuk I , Jourdain A , Thomas E , Goas P , Rouhart F
Published: September 2016

Introduction

The present study sought to identify factors affecting mortality beyond 28 days in ischaemic stroke patients with whatever ischaemic mechanism.

Patients and methods

A prospective population-based registry was set up in Brest County, Brittany, France. Demographic data, clinical presentation, vascular risk factors and mortality were collected from January 2008 to December 2012. At “home without help” was used as a surrogate marker for low Rankin (0–1) at discharge from the hospital. IS was classified on the TOAST classification. Overall mortality was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Multivariate analysis of mortality beyond 28 days was implemented, using a Cox model, on significant risk factors identified on univariate analysis.

Results

About 3024 IS cases were followed up beyond 28 days. Overall mortality beyond 28 days was 38.49% at 60 months. On multivariate analysis, age (10 years: HR = 1.84; [1.66–2.02]), coronary artery disease (HR = 1.28; [1.05–1.56]), cardiac arrhythmia (HR = 1.36; [1.11–1.67]), peripheral artery disease (HR = 1.66 [1.29–2.13]) and incomplete assessment (HR = 1.39; [1.12–1.74]) were associated with higher mortality risk, whereas female gender (HR = 0.80; [0.68–0.94]), high Glasgow Coma Scale score (GCS > 12) (HR = 0.58; [0.45–0.76]), lacunar syndrome (HR = 0.82; [0.68–0.99], being ‘at home without help’ (HR = 0.50; [0.41–0.59]) and negative assessment (HR = 0.75; [0.58–0.97], compared to cardioembolism) were associated with better survival probability.

Discussion

Initial clinical status, prior cardiovascular diseases and age was associated with more risk of death: an increment of 10 years almost doubled mortality. Women had more survival probability than men, controlling for age. Ischaemic stroke mechanisms were predictors of late 5-year mortality.

Conclusion

Patients with negative assessment, i.e. representing truly cryptogenic ischaemic stroke, had the best survival probability probably due to fewer atherosclerotic markers.
Effects of OH− activity and temperature on the dissolution rate of compacted montmorillonite under highly alkaline conditions
Authors: Sawaguchi Takuma , Tsukada Manabu , Yamaguchi Tetsuji , Mukai Masayuki
Published: September 2016

The highly alkaline environment induced by cementitious materials in a deep geological disposal system of high-level radioactive waste is likely to alter montmorillonite, the main constituent of bentonite buffer materials. Over long time periods, the alteration may cause the physical and/or chemical barrier functions of the buffer materials to deteriorate. In order to evaluate the long-term alteration behaviour, the dissolution rate, RA (kgm−3 s−1), of compacted pure montmorillonite (Kunipia-F) was investigated experimentally under conditions of hydroxide ion concentration of 0.10—1.0 mol dm−3 at temperatures of 50—90°C. The dissolution rate data, including those from a previous study at 130°C, were formulated as a function of the activity of hydroxide ions, aOH− (mol dm−3), and temperature, T (K), and expressed as RA = 104.5·(aOH−)1.3·e−55000/RT by multiple regression analysis, where R is the gas constant. The dissolution rate of montmorillonite was greater in the compacted montmorillonite than in the compacted sand-bentonite mixtures. The difference can be explained by considering the decrease in aOH− in the mixtures accompanied by dissolution of accessory minerals such as quartz and chalcedony. The dissolution rate model developed for pure montmorillonite is expected to be applied to bentonite mixtures if quantification of the decrease in aOH− is achieved somehow.
Do somatic mutations in de novo MDS predict for response to treatment?
Authors: Schroeder Mark A. , DeZern Amy E.
Published: September 2016

A 68-year-old male with history of hypertension and arthritis presented with bruising and increasing fatigue over several months. He was found to be thrombocytopenic (platelets 30), WCB 2.0 K/mm3, Hg 11.6 g/dL, ANC 870, and 1% circulating blasts. Bone marrow biopsy revealed 40%-50% cellular with multilineage dysplasia and 10% blasts. Cytogenetic genetic studies showed trisomy 2, and translocation (3;21). FISH studies for 5q, 7p, 8, 17p, and 20q abnormalities were negative. Molecular diagnostics were sent to a commercial laboratory to aid in prognostication. These studies showed mutations in TET2 (exons 1- 9 tested) and PHF6 (exons 1-9 tested). No abnormalities in other epigenetic regulators (DNMT3A, ASXL1), RNA splicing (SF3B1, SRSF2, URAF1, ZRSR2), transcription factors (RUNX1 or ETV6), or signaling (CBL, NRAS, KIT, JAK2, MPL) were detected. He was referred for consultation regarding initial treatment. In this elderly patient with preserved organ function and good performance status who is being considered for reduced intensity conditioned allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant, what should the initial treatment be and can we use the molecular diagnostic results to guide therapy?
The complete genome sequences of sulfur-oxidizing Gammaproteobacteria Sulfurifustis variabilis skN76T and Sulfuricaulis limicola HA5T
Authors: Umezawa Kazuhiro , Watanabe Tomohiro , Miura Aya , Kojima Hisaya , Fukui Manabu
Published: September 2016

Sulfurifustis variabilis and Sulfuricaulis limicola are autotrophic sulfur-oxidizing bacteria belonging to the family Acidiferrobacteraceae in the order Acidiferrobacterales. The type strains of these species, strain skN76T and strain HA5T, were isolated from lakes in Japan. Here we describe the complete genome sequences of Sulfurifustis variabilis skN76T and Sulfuricaulis limicola HA5T. The genome of Sulfurifustis variabilis skN76T consists of one circular chromosome with size of 4.0 Mbp including 3864 protein-coding sequences. The genome of Sulfuricaulis limicola HA5T is 2.9 Mbp chromosome with 2763 protein-coding sequences. In both genomes, 46 transfer RNA-coding genes and one ribosomal RNA operon were identified. In the genomes, redundancies of the genes involved in sulfur oxidation and inorganic carbon fixation pathways were observed. This is the first report to show the complete genome sequences of bacteria belonging to the order Acidiferrobacterales in the class Gammaproteobacteria.
Reliability, Validity, and Feasibility of a Computer-Based Geriatric Assessment for Older Adults With Cancer
Authors: Hurria Arti , Akiba Chie , Kim Jerome , Mitani Dale , Loscalzo Matthew , Katheria Vani , Koczywas Marianna , Pal Sumanta , Chung Vincent , Forman Stephen , Nathwani Nitya , Fakih Marwan , Karanes Chatchada , Lim Dean , Popplewell Leslie , Cohen Harvey , Canin Beverly , Cella David , Ferrell Betty , Goldstein Leanne
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

The goal of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, reliability, and validity of a computer-based geriatric assessment via two methods of electronic data capture ( SupportScreen and REDCap) compared with paper-and-pencil data capture among older adults with cancer.

Methods:

Eligible patients were ≥ 65 years old, had a cancer diagnosis, and were fluent in English. Patients were randomly assigned to one of four arms, in which they completed the geriatric assessment twice: (1) REDCap and paper and pencil in sessions 1 and 2; (2) REDCap in both sessions; (3) SupportScreen and paper and pencil in sessions 1 and 2; and (4) SupportScreen in both sessions. The feasibility, reliability, and validity of the computer-based geriatric assessment compared with paper and pencil were evaluated.

Results:

The median age of participants (N = 100) was 71 years (range, 65 to 91 years) and the diagnosis was solid tumor (82%) or hematologic malignancy (18%). For session 1, REDCap took significantly longer to complete than paper and pencil (median, 21 minutes [range, 11 to 44 minutes] v median, 15 minutes [range, 9 to 29 minutes], P < .01) or SupportScreen (median, 16 minutes [range, 6 to 38 minutes], P < .01). There were no significant differences in completion times between SupportScreen and paper and pencil ( P = .50). The computer-based geriatric assessment was feasible. Few participants (8%) needed help with completing the geriatric assessment (REDCap, n = 7 and SupportScreen, n = 1), 89% reported that the length was “just right,” and 67% preferred the computer-based geriatric assessment to paper and pencil. Test–retest reliability was high (Spearman correlation coefficient ≥ 0.79) for all scales except for social activity. Validity among similar scales was demonstrated.

Conclusion:

Delivering a computer-based geriatric assessment is feasible, reliable, and valid. SupportScreen methodology is preferred to REDCap.
Biometrics and Opacity: A Conversation
Authors: Blas Zach , Gaboury Jacob
Published: September 2016

This conversation between scholar Jacob Gaboury and artist Zach Blas explores the unique challenges posed by contemporary digital media technology to the political projects of queer, feminist, critical race, and disability studies. Asking how we might negotiate the politics of visibility in an age of pervasive surveillance, Blas and Gaboury look to the work of artists and critical thinkers who offer alternate modes of veiled, obscured, or otherwise negotiated being in the world. Focusing on Blas's own work, the conversation interrogates what Blas terms “informatic opacity” through a discussion of his Facial Weaponization Suite (2011–14), a series of biometric masks that ask who and what we make visible to technology. Looking to the face as a critical site for negotiated visibility, Blas and Gaboury draw on diverse traditions of concealment and performance to frame the contemporary politics of visibility, including the actions of the Zapatista Army of National Liberation in Chiapas, Mexico, the tactics of the global hacker group Anonymous, the politics of the veil or hijab, the use of balaclavas by Pussy Riot members based in Russia, and the performance of drag. Contrasting opacity with a number of related key terms such as privacy, invisibility, and security, Blas and Gaboury propose instead that the weaponization of the face can serve as a means to escape from the oppressive logic that attempts to control it, thus transforming the face into what is unknown, unidentified, or opaque.
Main features of the Livonian sound system and pronunciation
Authors: Tuisk Tuuli
Published: September 2016

The aim of this article is to give an overview of the Livonian sound system and pronunciation. Regarding Livonian dialectal variation, the main difference is between East and West Livonian, while Central Livonian forms a transition area. The basis of the Livonian written language is the East Courland dialect. This article focuses on standard pronunciation, with some discussion of variation. Vowels and consonants are treated separately. In addition, Livonian prosodic features are discussed. Livonian stands out as being a Finnic language that has been influenced by the Baltic language, Latvian. Unlike many other Finnic languages, Livonian has voiced stops and fri catives, which can occur as long geminates. There is a large number of short and long monophthongs, diphthongs, and triphthongs in Livonian.Kokkuvõte. Tuuli Tuisk: Liivi keele häälikusüsteemi ja häälduse põhijooned. Käesolevas artiklis antakse ülevaade liivi keele häälikusüsteemist. Kuramaa liivi murrete seisukohalt on suurim erinevus ida- ja lääneliivi vahel, samas kui keskliivi ehk Īra kujutab endast üleminekuala. Tänapäeva liivi kirja keel põhineb Kuramaa idaliivi murdel. Artiklis kirjeldatakse liivi standard hääldust, tuues paralleelselt välja ka mõned murdeerinevused. Vokaale ja konsonante kirjeldatakse eraldi. Lisaks antakse ülevaade liivi prosoodiasüsteemist. Liivi keel on läänemeresoome keelte seas mõneti ainulaadses olukorras, kuna keeles on mõjutusi balti keelte hulka kuuluvast läti keelest. Erinevalt teistest läänemeresoome keeltest esinevad liivi keeles helilised klusiilid ja frikatiivid, mis võivad ilmneda ka pikkade geminaatidena. Samuti on liivi keel huvitav lühikeste ja pikkade monoftongide, diftongide ja triftongide rohkuse poolest.Märksõnad: konsonandid, vokaalid, toon, prosoodia, liivi keelKubbõvõttõks. Tuuli Tuisk: Līvõ kīel kilūd sistēm ja īeldõm pǟummitõd. Sīe kēra võttõksõks um iļļõvaņtļimi līvõ kīel kilūd sistēmst ja īeldõmst. Kurmǭ līvõ mūrdõd sūŗimi vait um um idā- ja lǟndlīvõd vail, sidāmi jag agā Īra um iļlǟdõb murd. Tämpiz līvõ kērakīel pūojõks um idālivõ murd. Kēras sǭb vaņțõltõd līvõ kīel standardīeltõmi, paralel ulzõ tūodsõ ka mingizt murdvaitõd. Īžkillijid ja īņõzkillijid sōbõd vaņtõltõd īžkiz. Vel sǭb vaņțõltõd līvõ kīel prozodij sistēmõ. Līvõ kēļ um vāldamiersūomõ kīeld siegās eņtšvīți, ku kīelsõ um mȯjtõkši lețkīelstõ. Tuoistiz ku sūrs jags vāldamiersūomõ kēļši, līvõ kīelsõ ātõ īelkõks vizād ja ȭrdõd īņõzkillijid, mis võibõd jeddõ tūlda ka kui pitkād kǭdkõrdizt kilūd. Līvõ kīelsõ um ka pǟgiņ lītiži ja pitkīdi īdkõrdiži, kǭdkõrdiži ja kuolmkõrdiži īžkiļļijidi.
Chinese Glass Paintings in Bangkok Monasteries
Authors: Patterson Jessica Lee
Published: September 2016

Reverse glass paintings, a form of Chinese export art, were extensively traded in the nineteenth century. Several examples are on display in prominent Thai Buddhist monasteries in Bangkok. King Nangklao of Siam, Rama III, encouraged Sino-Siamese trade that brought Chinese objects and images to nineteenth-century Siam. The ideals of accretion and abundance characteristic of Thai Buddhism and the sinophilia of Rama III facilitated the construction of “Chinese-style” Thai temples. Glass paintings with scenes of the Pearl River Delta, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, auspicious objects, and bird-and-flower compositions were installed in temples and inspired new directions in Thai mural painting.
The Pagoda in Kherlen-Bars: New Understandings of Khitan-Period Towering Pagodas
Authors: Steinhardt Nancy Shatzman
Published: September 2016

The Kherlen-Bars Pagoda is a little-known, undocumented monument in Dornad province of eastern Mongolia. This article argues that the pagoda was built during the period of Khitan rule in North Asia. It begins by comparing it with dated and undated pagodas of the Liao dynasty in eastern Inner Mongolia and Liaoning. The discussion then turns to less tangible aspects of Liao pagoda architecture that are observed at Kherlen-Bars: the relation between a tall monument and lower ones within viewing range, and the relation between a tall Khitan structure and a nearby walled town. A newly discovered Liao pagoda site in Xishanpo, Inner Mongolia, is presented. Finally, the article proposes sources for the three-monument arrangement at Kherlen-Bars in Northern Wei, Northern Qi, and the Silla kingdom of Korea.
The Ligneous Aesthetic of the Postwar Sōsaku Hanga Movement and American Perspectives on the Modern Japanese Culture of Wood
Authors: Winther-Tamaki Bert
Published: September 2016

The Japanese movement of printmaking known as Sōsaku Hanga (“Creative Prints”) received a tremendous boost after World War II from the patronage of collectors associated with the US military. One appeal of Sōsaku prints by Munakata Shikō, Saitō Kiyoshi, Azechi Umetarō, and Maeda Senpan, among others, was their woody sensibility, or ligneous aesthetic. Human figures rendered like pieces of woodcraft and abstract passages of wood-grain printing intrigued American enthusiasts such as James A. Michener and Oliver Statler. The ligneous aesthetic was appreciated for evoking alluring qualities of ancient Japan as well as for its impressive sense of modernity.
Paintings of Traveling Bullock Carts (Panche Tu) in the Song Dynasty (960–1279)
Authors: Cheng Wen-Chien
Published: September 2016

This paper is a study of Song dynasty panche tu (paintings of traveling bullock carts), a unique genre combining elements of jiehua (paintings requiring the aid of measuring tools), landscape, and genre art. As early as the Five Dynasties, bullock carts were represented in paintings showcasing water mills to celebrate technology and its contribution to agricultural prosperity. In the Song period, the realistic representation of bullock carts meandering along the mountain paths of northern landscapes became a distinctive genre. This paper examines the forces contributing to this transformation: a dominant interest in landscape painting and realism, and the grain contribution required of commoners for the defense of the northern frontier.
Analysis of Base-Position Error Rate of Next-Generation Sequencing to Detect Tumor Mutations in Circulating DNA
Authors: Pécuchet Nicolas , Rozenholc Yves , Zonta Eleonora , Pietrasz Daniel , Didelot Audrey , Combe Pierre , Gibault Laure , Bachet Jean-Baptiste , Taly Valérie , Fabre Elizabeth , Blons Hélène , Laurent-Puig Pierre
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

Detecting single-nucleotide variations and insertions/deletions in circulating tumor DNA is challenging because of their low allele frequency. The clinical use of circulating tumor DNA to characterize tumor genetic alterations requires new methods based on next-generation sequencing.

METHODS

We developed a method based on quantification of error rate of each base position [position error rate (PER)]. To identify mutations, a binomial test was used to compare the minor-allele frequency to the measured PER at each base position. This process was validated in control samples and in 373 plasma samples from patients with lung or pancreatic cancer.

RESULTS

Minimal mutated allele frequencies were 0.003 for single-nucleotide variations and 0.001 for insertions/deletions. Independent testing performed by droplet digital PCR (n = 231 plasma samples) showed strong agreement with the base-PER method (κ = 0.90).

CONCLUSIONS

Targeted next-generation sequencing analyzed with the base-PER method represents a robust and low cost method to detect circulating tumor DNA in patients with cancer.
Is the $1000 Genome as Near as We Think? A Cost Analysis of Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: van Nimwegen Kirsten J M , van Soest Ronald A , Veltman Joris A , Nelen Marcel R , van der Wilt Gert Jan , Vissers Lisenka E L M , Grutters Janneke P C
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

The substantial technological advancements in next-generation sequencing (NGS), combined with dropping costs, have allowed for a swift diffusion of NGS applications in clinical settings. Although several commercial parties report to have broken the $1000 barrier for sequencing an entire human genome, a valid cost overview for NGS is currently lacking. This study provides a complete, transparent and up-to-date overview of the total costs of different NGS applications.

METHODS

Cost calculations for targeted gene panels (TGP), whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS) were based on the Illumina NextSeq500, HiSeq4000, and HiSeqX5 platforms, respectively. To anticipate future developments, sensitivity analyses are performed.

RESULTS

Per-sample costs were €1669 for WGS, € 792 for WES and €333 for TGP. To reach the coveted $1000 genome, not only is the long-term and efficient use of the sequencing equipment needed, but also large reductions in capital costs and especially consumable costs are also required.

CONCLUSIONS

WES and TGP are considerably lower-cost alternatives to WGS. However, this does not imply that these NGS approaches should be preferred in clinical practice, since this should be based on the tradeoff between costs and the expected clinical utility of the approach chosen. The results of the present study contribute to the evaluation of such tradeoffs.
Marxism and the computer game
Authors: Kirkpatrick Graeme , Mazierska Ewa , Kristensen Lars
Published: September 2016

This article asks the question, how should the computer game as a new cultural form be assessed from a Marxist perspective? Marxism is a developed theoretical discourse operative in several domains that are potentially relevant to computer games. The first part of our discussion focuses on Marx’s discussion of technology in relation to art and presents his historical dialectic of alienation and disalienation. This dialectic highlights the ambivalence of technology: it is both the condition of possibility of a society of plenty in which humanity is freed from drudgery and yet, with each step forward, it is associated with the imposition of new demands and novel forms of oppression. Viewed in this way, computer games are an important manifestation of digital technology, deeply implicated in new forms of capitalism. In the second section we use Marx’s ideas on art to explore the aesthetics of the new medium. The aesthetic occupies a special place in Marxist thought because it defines a space of reflection in which we can find a momentary escape from the fray of conflictual social relations and from which the future may shine a light. Viewed as a form of art, computer games are also ambivalent. On one side, they have been associated with a revival of play and a new culture of levity and creativity, which has spread as far as contemporary workplaces and even transformed the design of industrial, or productive, technology. At the same time, we argue that there has been no corresponding social transformation – people are not more free as a result of ‘gamification’. Rather, it seems that computer games present a deepening entanglement of aesthetic values (play, freedom, imagination) with technologies of control (interface, system, rules). In conclusion, we suggest that digital games bring the dream of art to life but that the result is not freedom but rather a perversion of play as its facility for opening up imagined spaces is used to restrict access to the space of freedom.
The work of play: Marx and the video games industry in the United Kingdom
Authors: Woodcock Jamie
Published: September 2016

The video games industry in the United Kingdom is profitable and growing at a time when the broader economy is still failing to recover. This has attracted the interests of politicians, committing large investments and tax breaks. Although the headline figures are impressive, the overall structure of the industry is less clear. Within this there are many new organizations, often shaped by start-up culture. Less is known about how work is being organized or the experiences of workers. The approach taken here draws on Marxist theory and an examination of the labour process. It focuses on how capitalism effects the production of video games, including the use of crunch time, the prevalence of sexism, and the widespread use of non-disclosure agreements. The conclusion suggests further enquiries are needed to understand how the struggle between labour and capital is shaping this industry.
Beyond games as political education – neo-liberalism in the contemporary computer game form
Authors: Möring Sebastian , Leino Olli
Published: September 2016

This article introduces the juxtaposed notions of liberal and neo-liberal gameplay in order to show that, while forms of contemporary game culture are heavily influenced by neo-liberalism, they often appear under a liberal disguise. The argument is grounded in Claus Pias’ idea of games as always a product of their time in terms of economic, political and cultural history. The article shows that romantic play theories (e.g. Schiller, Huizinga and Caillois) are circling around the notion of play as ‘free’, which emerged in parallel with the philosophy of liberalism and respective socio-economic developments such as the industrialization and the rise of the nation state. It shows further that contemporary discourse in computer game studies addresses computer game/play as if it still was the romantic form of play rooted in the paradigm of liberalism. The article holds that an account that acknowledges the neo-liberalist underpinnings of computer games is more suited to addressing contemporary computer games, among which are phenomena such as free to play games, which repeat the structures of a neo-liberal society. In those games the players invest time and effort in developing their skills, although their future value is mainly speculative – just like this is the case for citizens of neo-liberal societies.
The master’s digital tools: Cognitive capitalism and non-normative gaming practices
Authors: Frelik Paweł
Published: September 2016

In Games of Empire. Global Capitalisms and Video Games (2009), Nick Dyer-Witheford and Greig de Peuter mobilize the concept of cognitive capitalism as central to the intimate intermeshing of the medium and the late capitalist business practices. Using this concept, the article extends their discussion to a range of non-normative gaming practices and initiatives that have often been presented as subversive or alternative in relation to the dominant gaming regimes. Using the theory of cognitive capitalism, as outlined by Carlo Vercellone and Yann Moulier Boutang, as well as elements of Nick Dyer-Witheford and Greig de Peuter’s argument, the article links these practices to gauge the degree to which they are complicit in the global capitalist practices and contends that while many non-normative gaming practices cannot be subsumed by the same mechanisms of cognitive capitalism that operate in relation to game designers’ ideas, they ultimately contribute to an increase in value of industry-controlled locked IP and have firmly established positions in the circulation of content.
Awakening in ruins: The virtual spectacle of the end of the city in video games
Authors: Fraser Emma
Published: September 2016

With reference to Walter Benjamin’s work on nineteenth-century Paris, and Debord’s work on the spectacle, this article argues that the depiction of ruined cities in video games – as virtual ruins of the present – simultaneously reproduces the empty novelty of the commodity (the phantasmagoria of progress-oriented civilization), and offers a vision of failed progress through counter-spectacle. One means of understanding Benjamin’s dreamworld of modernity is through ruins and rubble – not only as material remnants, but in other visual or artistic forms that might reveal the illusion of progress as a fallacy, particularly in contrast to an urban-focused commodity capitalism. With an emphasis on Fallout 3, Hellgate: London and The Last of Us, and the S.T.A.L.K.E.R series this article argues that, if cities can be read as dreamworlds, and films, art and ruination as the means for awakening, then urban destruction in the virtual sphere can provide a counter to the collective dream of eternal progress.
Reviews
Authors: Johnson Matthew S. S. , Johnson Phylis
Published: September 2016

AN ETHNOGRAPHY OF THOUGHTFUL IMAGINATION

GAMEWORLDS: VIRTUAL MEDIA AND CHILDREN’S EVERYDAY PLAY, SETH GIDDINGS (2014) New York: Bloomsbury, 184 pp., ISBN: 9781623566326, h/bk, $110.00 (USD)

THE RISE OF 360 VIRTUAL REALITY ‘DO-IT-YOURSELF’ MACHINIMA: EVERY WHICH WAY GAMEPLAY
Comparative pharmacoepidemiological study of antihyperglycemic drugs utilization by patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Moscow
Authors: Kalashnikova Marina F. , Belousov Dmitrii Y. , Kantemirova Maria A. , Antsiferov Mikhail B.
Published: September 2016

Background. A pharmaco-epidemiological study comparing the dynamics of different anti-diabetic drugs in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Russia was conducted using data from a diabetes registry.Objective. To assess and compare the frequency of the prescription of oral anti-diabetic medications (OAMs) and insulin and the average cost of anti-hyperglycaemic therapy with different OAMs in 2014 and 2011.Material and methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using national diabetic registry data from the city of Moscow. Data for 270,073 patients (≥18 years old) with T2DM registered by 31 December 2014 were analysed using international the ATC/DDD methodology. The average indicated and actual daily dosage ratio was calculated. The cost of anti-hyperglycaemic therapy for оne person/year was calculated.Results. There were no significant differences in prescribed OAMs between 2011 and 2014, despite the availability of new OAM classes (data for 2011 were published in «Diabetes mellitus», 2015, p. 32–46). The tendency to prescribe two groups of OAMs remained unchanged during the 4-year period (Metformin in 40% of patients and sulfonylurea derivatives, in combination or as a monotherapy, in 49.3%). The percentage of patients with T2DM who received insulin therapy increased from 10% in 2011 to 19.2% in 2014. The absence of a significant increase in the average cost of anti-diabetic therapy by 2014 can be explained by an increase in the prescription of different Russian generics for metformin, sulfonylurea derivatives and insulin, which were cheaper than foreign analogues by 30%–60%.Conclusions. The main trends in the treatment of patients with T2DM by 2014 included less frequent combination therapy with metformin and PSM and more frequent monotherapy or combination therapy with insulin. Despite the appearance of new OAM classes in the market, the overall consumption pattern in 2014 did not exceed 5%. The average cost of anti-diabetic therapy for one patient with T2DM in 2014 in Moscow was 7,727 rubles per year.
Regime der Anerkennung
Authors: Hasgall Alexander
Published: September 2016

Kann ein philosophisches Konzept dazu dienen, vergangenheitspolitische Debatten besser zu verstehen? Alexander Hasgall nähert sich dieser Frage anhand der (Nach-)Geschichte der letzten Militärdiktatur Argentiniens an. Er zeigt auf, wie den Opfern massiver Menschenrechtsverletzungen durch Anerkennung neue Formen von Subjektivität zugeschrieben werden können, zugleich aber neue Herrschaftsformen entstehen können. Die mit dem Ende der Ära Kirchner einhergehenden vergangenheitspolitischen Verwerfungen stellen dabei einen besonderen Aktualitätsbezug her. Die Studie richtet sich sowohl an Wissenschaftler_innen als auch an Praktiker_innen, welche sich mit der Frage nach einem angemessenen Umgang mit dem Erbe von Gewaltsystemen beschäftigen.
A determinantal representation for derangement numbers
Authors: Qi Feng
Published: September 2016

In the note, the authors find a representation for derangement numbers in terms of a tridiagonal determinant whose elements are the first few natural numbers.
Using Indirect vs. Direct Measures in the Summative Assessment of Student Learning in Higher Education
Authors: Luce Christine , Kirnan Jean P
Published: September 2016

Contradictory results have been reported regarding the accuracy of various methods used to assess student learning in higher education. The current study examined student learning outcomes across a multi-section and multi-instructor psychology research course with both indirect and direct assessments in a sample of 67 undergraduate students. The indirect method measured student perceived knowledge and abilities on course topics, while the direct method measured actual knowledge where students answered test questions or solved problems reflecting course content. Both measures independently demonstrated increases from pretest to posttest; however the indirect measure did not correlate with final course grades. Results also showed respondents scoring lower on the direct measure were overconfident (as measured by indirect score) in their perceived knowledge and ability, the Dunning-Kruger Effect. Based on our findings, we concluded that the indirect method was not an accurate measure of student learning, but may have benefits as an instructional tool.
Smart money? Philanthropic and federal funding for the Common Core
Authors: Kornhaber Mindy L. , Barkauskas Nikolaus J. , Griffith Kelly M.
Published: September 2016

The Common Core State Standards Initiative seeks to prepare all students to graduate high school without remedial needs, to improve transparency across states’ accountability systems, and to foster efficiencies in the development and distribution of educational resources. The reform was adopted in more than 40 states and has been described as state-led. We examined federal and philanthropic funding for the reform through a conceptual lens of resource dependence theory. Our document analyses surfaced eight pathways along which funding for the Common Core traveled into, through, and around the public education system. We consider clusters of pathways according to their purposes and the consequences of such clustering for the reform. We conclude by discussing benefits derived from this funding for different types of entities that grant and receive it.
Potensi Mahoni (Swietenia macrophylla King) Pada Hutan Rakyat Sistem Kaliwo di Malimada, Sumba Barat Daya
Authors: Raharjo S.Agung Sri , Kurniawan Hery , Umroni Aziz , Pujiono Eko , Wanaha Mellianus
Published: September 2016

ABSTRAK Hutan rakyat berpotensi menjadi solusi defisit kebutuhan kayu secara lokal maupun nasional. Optimalisasi peran hutan rakyat memerlukan perencanaan yang tepat dan data yang akurat. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menentukan potensi dan komposisi kayu penyusun hutan rakyat di Malimada, Kecamatan Wewewa Utara Kabupaten Sumba Barat Daya, Nusa Tenggara Timur. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan diskriptif kuantitatif dengan metode sampling kuadrat. Sampel berjumlah 10 plot yang diambil secara puposive. Indeks Nilai Peneting (INP) digunakan untuk menggambarkan potency kayu dan komposisi jenis penyusun hutan rakyat. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa mahoni (Swietenia macrophylla King) mendominasi tegakan dengan nilai INP pada tingkat sapihan, tiang dan pohon berturut-turut adalah 188,28; 211,28 dan 246,04. Struktur tegakan yang ada memiliki karakteristik yang hampir sama dengan hutan alam,  hal ini terlihat dari grafik distribusi tingkat pertumbuhan yang berbentuk (J) terbalik (reverse J-shape). Kata kunci : potensi kayu, hutan rakyat, mahoni, analisis vegetasi   ABSTRACT Private forests potentially solve the problem of local and national wood deficit. Optimizing the role of private forests, needs proper plannings and accurate data. This study aimed at determining wood potency and composition on private forest of Malimada, North Wewewa sub district, Southwest Sumba District of East Nusa Tenggara. This research used quantitative descriptive approach. Samplings purposive used quadrat methods with 10 plots were established. Important Value Index (IVI) was employed in order to depict wood potency and trees composition of private forest. The research results revealed that standing stock predominantly by mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King.) with IVI at saplings, poles, and trees level were 188.28; 211.28 and 246.04 respectively. The existing structure stock has similar characteristics to the nature forest, this was indicated by reverse J-shape level of growth distribution curve.   Keywords : wood potency, private forest, mahogany, vegetation analysis.