bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability‐based design optimisation of technical systems: analytical response surface moments method
Authors: Rajan Arvind , Ooi Melanie Po‐Leen , Kuang Ye Chow , Demidenko Serge N.
Published: January 2017

Reliability‐based design optimisation is a process of finding an optimum economical design while conforming to a set of reliability constraints. In this context, the reliability analysis that is simultaneously accurate and computationally efficient is imperative. Since the analytical evaluation of evaluating reliability constraints is mathematically complex, the most probable point search approach using the first and second orders of reliability approximation has become the mainstream technique. However, it is characterised as having a high computational cost and poor convergence in some design problems involving a large number of design variables with highly nonlinear constraints. To overcome the problem, this paper introduces a novel response surface with analytical moment‐based reliability analysis technique. It performs distribution fitting using the exact analytical expression of high‐order moments of response surface that are precisely calculated using Mellin transform. To boost the computational efficiency, a selective sampling technique is used in constructing the response surface model. Consequently, the proposed method not only provides final solutions of high quality, but it is also significantly faster than representatives of the mainstream reliability approximation methods. For example, when applied to complex design problems, the proposed method is able to converge to dependable solutions while offering the high speed of single‐loop optimisation approaches.
The extended epoch of galaxy formation: Age dating of ~3600 galaxies with 2 < z < 6.5 in the VIMOS Ultra-Deep Survey
Authors: Thomas R. , Le Fèvre O. , Scodeggio M. , Cassata P. , Garilli B. , Le Brun V. , Lemaux B. C. , Maccagni D. , Pforr J. , Tasca L. A. M. , Zamorani G. , Bardelli S. , Hathi N. P. , Tresse L. , Zucca E. , Koekemoer A. M.
Published: January 2017

In this paper we aim at improving constraints on the epoch of galaxy formation by measuring the ages of 3597 galaxies with reliable spectroscopic redshifts 2 ≤ z ≤ 6.5 in the VIMOS Ultra Deep Survey (VUDS). We derive ages and other physical parameters from the simultaneous fitting with the GOSSIP+ software of observed UV rest-frame spectra and photometric data from the u band up to 4.5 μm using model spectra from composite stellar populations. We perform extensive simulations and conclude that at z ≥ 2 the joint analysis of spectroscopy and photometry, combined with restricted age possibilities when taking the age of the Universe into account, substantially reduces systematic uncertainties and degeneracies in the age derivation; we find that age measurements from this process are reliable. We find that galaxy ages range from very young with a few tens of million years to substantially evolved with ages up to 1.5 Gyr or more. This large age spread is similar for different age definitions including ages corresponding to the last major star formation event, stellar mass-weighted ages, and ages corresponding to the time since the formation of 25% of the stellar mass. We derive the formation redshift zf from the measured ages and find galaxies that may have started forming stars as early as zf ~ 15. We produce the formation redshift function (FzF), the number of galaxies per unit volume formed at a redshift zf, and compare the FzF in increasing observed redshift bins finding a remarkably constant FzF. The FzF is parametrized with (1 + z)ζ, where ζ ≃ 0.58 ± 0.06, indicating a smooth increase of about 2 dex from the earliest redshifts, z ~ 15, to the lowest redshifts of our sample at z ~ 2. Remarkably, this observed increase in the number of forming galaxies is of the same order as the observed rise in the star formation rate density (SFRD). The ratio of the comoving SFRD with the FzF gives an average SFR per galaxy of ~7−17M⊙/yr at z ~ 4−6, in agreement with the measured SFR for galaxies at these redshifts. From the smooth rise in the FzF we infer that the period of galaxy formation extends all the way from the highest possible formation redshifts that we can probe at z ~ 15 down to redshifts z ~ 2. This indicates that galaxy formation is a continuous process over cosmic time, with a higher number of galaxies forming at the peak in SFRD at z ~ 2 than at earlier epochs.
Peak velocity and its time limit are as good as the velocity associated with VO2max for training prescription in runners
Authors: Manoel Francisco , da Silva Danilo , Lima Jorge , Machado Fabiana
Published: January 2017

This study compared the effects of 4 weeks of training prescribed by peak velocity (Vpeak) or velocity associated with maximum oxygen uptake (vVO2max) in moderately trained endurance runners. Study participants were 14 runners (18–35 years) randomized into 2 groups, named group VO2 (GVO2) and group Vpeak (GVP). The GVO2 had training prescribed by vVO2max and its time limit (tlim), whereas the GVP had training prescribed by Vpeak and its tlim. Four tests were performed on a treadmill: 2 maximum incremental for Vpeak and vVO2max and 2 for their tlim. Performance (10 km) was evaluated on a 400 m track. Evaluations were repeated after 4 weeks of endurance training. The results showed a significant effect of training on Vpeak [GVP (16.7±1.2–17.6±1.5 km.h−1), GVO2 (17.1±1.9–17.7±1.6 km·h−1)]; vVO2max [GVP (16.4±1.4–17.0±1.3 km·h−1), GVO2 (17.2±1.7–17.5±1.9 km·h−1)]; and 10 km performance [GVP (41.3±2.4–39.9±2.7 min), GVO2 (40.1±3.4–39.2±2.9 min)]. The Vpeak highly correlated with performance in both pre- and post-training in GVP (–0.97;–0.86) and GVO2 (–0.95;–0.94), as well as with vVO2max in GVP (–0.82;–0.88) and GVO2 (–0.99; –0.98). It is concluded that training prescribed by Vpeak promoted similar improvements compared to training prescribed by vVO2max. The use of Vpeak is recommended due to its practical application and the low cost of determination.
Directional curl spaces and applications to the Meissner states of anisotropic superconductors
Authors: Pan Xing-Bin
Published: January 2017

The directional curl spaces are introduced, which consist of vector fields that have directional curl along the given unit length vector fields. The basic properties of these spaces are derived, including the trace theorem and the representation of the dual spaces. The directional curl spaces are used to analyze the asymptotic behavior of the Meissner states of strongly anisotropic superconductors, where the limiting energy functionals are non-coercive in the usual Sobolev spaces.
Becoming an applied linguist
Authors: Thompson Celia , Morton Janne , Storch Neomy
Published: January 2017

The need to establish an authorial identity in academic discourse has been considered to be critical for all doctoral students by academic writing teachers and researchers for some time. For students for whom English is an additional language (EAL) in particular, the challenges are not only how to communicate this identity effectively in English, but also how to develop from a writer who simply ventriloquizes the voices of scholarly others to an author who writes with authority and discipline-specific rhetorical knowledge. In the current project, we explored how three EAL students constructed authorial voices through the use of personal and impersonal forms of self-representation and evaluative stance in the Introduction sections of their written PhD Confirmation Reports. Our findings indicate that students combined a complex range of linguistic and rhetorical resources, such as integral and non-integral attribution of sources and attitudinal markers of stance, in their quest to project credible authorial identities as Applied Linguists. We also discovered the effect of these resources on readers to be cumulative. We recommend further research, including interviews with students, supervisors and examiners from across the disciplines, to explore and extend the scope of the present study.
Calorimetric Measurements of Carbon and A-150 Plastic Kerma Factors for 14.6 MeV Neutrons
Authors: McDonald J.C. , Cummings F.M.
Published: January 2017

Two identical spherical calorimeters, one constructed of carbon (graphite) and the other of A-150 plastic, were used to measure kerma while activation foils of aluminium and gold were used to measure neutron fluence. The calorimeters were constructed specifically for the purpose of measuring neutron kerma. The amount of extraneous material around the calorimeters was kept to a minimum in order to reduce the absorption and scattering of neutrons before they reached the cores of the calorimeters. Neutrons were produced by the rotating target neutron source (RTNS-II) at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, using the d-T interaction. The detectors were placed at an angle of 45<o with respect to the deuteron beam line, where the most probable neutron energy was computed to be 14.6 MeV. The effects of gamma rays and low energy neutron contamination were accounted for, along with the neutron absorption and scattering that occurred in the enclosure, jacket, and core of each calorimeter. The measured value of the kerma factor for carbon was found to be 1.8 ± 0.16 x 10-11 Gy.cm, about 10% lower than the calculated value.
Development of Thin Layer Ceramic TLD Chips
Authors: Hoffman J. , Tetzlaff W. , Hegland J. , Bloomsburg C. , Braunlich P.
Published: January 2017

Properties of novel inorganic and rugged TLD chips for personnel and environmental dosimetry are described. A configuration developed especially for laser heating consists of a thin layer of CaSO4:Tm or MgB4O7:Tm powder bonded to aluminium oxide substrates of 125 µm thickness. A version for conventional heating on a 250 µm substrate and the geometry of a 380 µm thick LiF chip is also available. A patented glass overcoat makes these elements insensitive to humidity and immersion in water. They withstand thousands of readout cycles up to 400 oC and can be deep annealed to 600 oC. Chips of reduced layer thickness for beta dosimetry exhibit energy independent TL responses from 147Pm to 90Sr energies.
ECX: An R Package for Studying Sensitivity of Antimicrobial Substances Using Spiral Plating Technology
Authors: Torres-Londoño Gabriel Andrés , Hausbeck Mary , Hao Jianjun
Published: January 2017

Spiral plating technique is reliable, repeatable, and more efficient than dilution plating methods in studying the efficacy of antimicrobial products. In this method, the concentration of chemicals can be varied at different positions on agar plates, but its calculation requires using a commercial software. To establish a user-friendly and cost-free platform, the R package ECX was developed to calculate chemical concentrations in spiral plating technique. Mathematical models were established for calculating dispensed volume on agar plates using variables (molecular weight and agar height) that affect diffusion. In addition to the R packages, the web-based Shiny extensions ECX, multi, and ppm were developed to provide a graphical interface for calculating individual concentrations, multiple concentrations, and stock concentrations, respectively. No significant differences were observed (P > 0.05) when ECX was compared with the commercial software. The ability to import and process large datasets makes the ECX package a better option for spiral plating technique studies. Furthermore, the multiplatform nature of the ECX package overcomes limitations presented in other software. Therefore, these ECX characteristics can increase the use of the spiral plating technique for sensitivity studies.

Accepted for publication 21 June 2016.
Reaction of Selected Cultivars of Sugar Maple to Anthracnose in North Alabama
Authors: Hagan A. K. , Bowen K. L. , Conner K. N. , Sibley J. L. , Caylor A. W.
Published: January 2017

Anthracnose, caused by the fungus Discula campestris, appeared in a planting of 18 sugar maple cultivars in Cullman, AL (USDA Hardiness Zone 7a). Sizable differences in the timing of disease onset and intensification were noted between sugar maple cultivars. On susceptible cultivars, the appearance of reddish-brown lesions 4 to 10 mm in diameter, sometimes with a tan center and yellow border, in June was followed with the initiation of premature defoliation by mid-July. By early fall, the susceptible cultivars Goldspire, Seneca Chief, and Sugar Queen along with the moderately susceptible cultivars Endowment, Fairview, Flax Mill Majesty, Morton, and Sweet Shadow were defoliated and showed no fall color. In contrast, disease onset was delayed, the level of premature defoliation greatly reduced, and fall color display unaffected on the anthracnose resistant cultivars Autumn Blush, Autumn Faith, Fall Fiesta, and Legacy, all of which would be excellent choices for amenity and commercial landscapes in the Mid- and Upper South. Among the representative cultivars of the four resistance classes, total rainfall and mean temperature influenced premature anthracnose-induced defoliation on the susceptible Sugar Queen and moderately resistant Commemoration, but not on the resistant Fall Fiesta or the moderately susceptible Flax Mill Majesty sugar maples.

Accepted for publication 28 November 2016.
Parallel power posterior analyses for fast computation of marginal likelihoods in phylogenetics
Authors: Höhna Sebastian , Landis Michael J. , Huelsenbeck John P.
Published: January 2017

Motivation

In Bayesian phylogenetic inference, marginal likelihoods are estimated using either the path-sampling or stepping-stone-sampling algorithms. Both algorithms are computationally demanding because they require a series of power posterior Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulations. Here we introduce a general parallelization strategy that distributes the power posterior MCMC simulations and the likelihood computations over available CPUs. Our parallelization strategy can easily be applied to any statistical model despite our primary focus on molecular substitution models in this study.

Results

Using two phylogenetic example datasets, we demonstrate that the runtime of the marginal likelihood estimation can be reduced significantly even if only two CPUs are available (an average performance increase of 1.96x). The performance increase is nearly linear with the number of available CPUs. We record a performance increase of 11.4x for cluster nodes with 16 CPUs, representing a substantial reduction to the runtime of marginal likelihood estimations. Hence, our parallelization strategy enables the estimation of marginal likelihoods to complete in a feasible amount of time which previously needed days, weeks or even months.

Availability

The methods described here are implemented in our open-source softwareRevBayeswhich is available fromhttp://www.RevBayes.com.

Contact

Sebastian.Hoehna@gmail.com

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available atBioinformaticsonline.
Structure evolution of aluminosilicate sol and its structure-directing effect on the synthesis of NaY zeolite
Authors: Zhao Xiaomeng , Liu Rugeng , Zhang Heng , Shang Yunshan , Song Yu , Liu Chao , Wang Tao , Gong Yanjun , Li Zhihong
Published: January 2017

Understanding the growth behaviour of an aluminosilicate sol during ageing is necessary for the design of the sol and the synthesis of NaY zeolite. Herein, aluminosilicate sols with three different SiO2/Al2O3 ratios were prepared and aged for varying times at 293 K. The sol was then introduced as a structure-directing agent in the feedstock gel to generate NaY zeolite. The structure evolution of the sol species during the ageing process was studied by in situ small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) using synchrotron radiation. SAXS data, in combination with transmission electron microscopy images, Raman spectra and X-ray diffraction patterns, present a detailed description of the sol species, revealing an interplay between the fractal structure and reactivity to generate NaY zeolite. The SiO2/Al2O3 ratios in the sol play a critical role in the structure evolution of the aluminosilicate species during the ageing, particularly with respect to their size distributions and the fractal dimensions. The species with suitable size and compactness in the sol are found to be an active precursor for achieving a highly crystalline NaY zeolite. The sol with an SiO2/Al2O3 ratio of 20 possesses active species with a mass fractal dimension D
m of 2.0–2.6 after ageing, which leads to the formation of a well crystallized NaY zeolite. However, the high-silica sol-25, with an SiO2/Al2O3 ratio of 25, and alumina rich sol-10, with a ratio of 10, experience growth at either slow or fast rates. In these cases the active species have smaller D
m (1.1–1.9) or larger D
m (2.6–2.8), respectively, displaying low/poor activity to generate NaY zeolite. The mechanisms regulating the growth behaviour of the sols during ageing are proposed.
Nondestructive separation of residual stress and composition gradients in thin films by angle- and energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction. I. Theoretical concepts
Authors: Klaus Manuela , Genzel Christoph
Published: January 2017

Different X-ray measurement and data evaluation concepts are presented, which allow for residual stress analysis in thin films with pronounced gradients in chemical composition. These gradients lead to a variation in the strain-free lattice parameter a
0 with respect to the film thickness and superimpose the lattice strain induced by the film's inherent stresses. Non-consideration of a
0(z) gradients is shown to lead to considerable errors (`ghost stresses') in the residual stress depth profiles. With the simulated example of a TiC
x
N1−x
film with a pronounced carbon gradient, the first part of this series introduces four approaches, which permit the separation of residual stress and composition depth distributions at different levels of approximation. They are based on lattice spacing depth profile measurements performed in either the sin2ψ mode or the scattering vector mode, or in combinations of these two scanning modes. Depending on the approach used for separating the residual stress and composition gradients, angle- or energy-dispersive diffraction has to be applied, employing monochromatic X-ray sources available in the laboratory or either white high-energy synchrotron radiation or the Bremsstrahlung of conventional X-ray tubes, respectively. The methods introduced here assume a biaxial residual stress state within the film. For a triaxial residual stress state with σ33 ≠ 0, a separation of stress and composition gradients is not straightforward, because an a
0(z) gradient cannot be distinguished from the hydrostatic part of the stress tensor.
Crystal structure of dimethyl 2-((2Z,5Z)-5-(2-methoxy-2-oxoethylidene)-2-{(E)-[2-methyl-5-(prop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohex-2-enylidene]hydrazinylidene}-4-oxothiazolidin-3-yl)fumarate
Authors: N'ait Ousidi Abdellah , Ait Itto My Youssef , Auhmani Aziz , Riahi Abdelkhalek , Auhmani Abdelwahed , Daran Jean-Claude
Published: January 2017

The crystal structure and the conformation of the title compound, C22H27N3O7S, were determined from the synthetic pathway and by X-ray analysis. This compound is a new 4-thiazolidinone derivative prepared and isolated as pure product from thiosemicarbazone carvone. The molecule is built up from an oxothiazolidine ring tetrasubstituted by a methoxy–oxoethylidene, a maleate, an oxygen and a cyclohexylidene–hydrazone. The cyclohexylidene ring is statistically disordered over two positions, resulting in an inversion of configuration for the substituted carbon.
Time course analysis of RNA quality in placenta preserved by RNAlater or flash freezing
Authors: Martin Nicole M. , Cooke Katherine M. , Radford Caitlin C. , Perley Lauren E. , Silasi Michelle , Flannery Clare A.
Published: January 2017

Problem

Preservation of biospecimen quality is critical to accurately and reliably assessing genes and proteins. We evaluated the effect of preparation method and storage duration on RNA quality in placenta and decidua.

Method of study

Aliquots of nine placentas and decidua were placed in RNAlater® (RL) or flash frozen (FF) within 30 minutes of delivery. RNA was extracted immediately (baseline) and from matched samples stored at −80°C for 1 and 8‐10 months. RNA Integrity Number (RIN) and housekeeping gene expression were quantified.

Results

At both time points, RL placenta had RIN and housekeeping gene Ct values similar to baseline. However, FF placenta had significantly lower RIN and higher Ct values at 1 and 8‐10 months. In RL and FF decidua, RIN was unchanged from baseline.

Conclusion

We found RNAlater more effectively and consistently preserved placenta, compared to flash freezing. However, for decidua, which is less dense than placenta, both modes yielded comparable RNA integrity over time.
Reliability and validity of non‐invasive determined haemoglobin mass and blood volumes
Authors: Fagoni Nazzareno , Breenfeldt Andersen Andreas , Oberholzer Laura , Haider Thomas , Meinild Lundby Anne‐Kristine , Lundby Carsten
Published: January 2017

Introduction

The carbon monoxide (CO) rebreathing method used for the determination of haemoglobin mass (Hbmass) is associated with blood sample analysis (in this study: Radiometer ABL800). As an alternative hereto the aim of the present study was to evaluate the use of a portable and non‐invasive CO pulse oximeter (Rad‐57).

Method

With simultaneous determination of CO in the circulation by ABL800 (%HbCO) and Rad‐57 (SpCO), Hbmass and blood volume (BV) were determined in duplicates in 24 volunteers. Percentage of typical errors (%TE) within methods and linear correlations between the two procedures were computed.

Results

Hbmass (Rad‐57 = 798 ± 230 g; ABL800 = 781 ± 192 g) and BV (Rad‐57 = 5700 ± 1373 ml; ABL800 = 5581 ± 1096 ml) were similar between methods. However, the %TE for Hbmass was higher (P<0·001) for Rad‐57 (5·84 ± 5·29%) than for ABL800 (1·35 ± 1·13%). Similarly, the %TE for BV was higher (P<0·001) for Rad‐57 (6·06 ± 5·76%) than for ABL800 (1·48 ± 1·25%). Lower (P<0·05) correlation coefficients between the methods were found when Hbmass > 905 g and BV > 6193 ml.

Conclusion

Assessment of SpCO by Rad‐57 resulted in considerably less precise determinations of Hbmass and BV, especially for high values. Thus, non‐invasive assessment of Hbmass and BV cannot be recommended for scientific purposes, but may nonetheless be useful in clinical settings.
Differences in inflammatory marker patterns for adult community‐acquired pneumonia patients induced by different pathogens
Authors: Liu Meng , Li Hui , Xue Chun Xue , Gu Li , Qu Jiu Xin , Yu Xiao Min , Wang Yi Min , Liu Ying Mei , Cao Bin
Published: January 2017

Introduction

The inflammatory marker patterns of community‐acquired Pneumonia (CAP) induced by different microorganisms in adult patients remained unclear.

Objectives

We aim to explore the inflammatory marker patterns of adult CAP patients induced by different pathogens.

Methods

Adult CAP patients with definite etiologies were enrolled from September 2010 to June 2012. They were divided into three groups according to the causative pathogens: typical bacteria, Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP), and viruses. Twenty‐seven cytokines and bactericidal/permeability‐increasing protein (BPI) levels of serum collected within 7 days onset in these groups were compared.

Results

One hundred twenty‐four cases were enrolled for serum detection and analysis, including 10 typical bacterial pneumonia patients, 56 cases with MP pneumonia and 58 with viral pneumonia. Three kinds (PDGF‐BB, IP‐10, RANTES) of 27 cytokines and BPI levels were significantly elevated in patients with acute pneumonia than healthy controls. Distinct inflammatory marker patterns were released by different pathogens: typical bacterial pneumonia patients had highest levels of BPI, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐1rα; while patients caused by MP presented higher levels of PDGF‐BB, IL‐17A, G‐CSF than those caused by viruses. Rhinovirus owned a higher inflammatory response level than the other viruses. The area under the curve (AUC) of PDGF‐BB to differentiate MP and virus infection was biggest, which was 0.708.

Conclusion

Distinct inflammatory marker patterns were released by different pathogens during acute pneumonia. Significantly increased level of PDGF‐BB was observed in acute pneumonia for the first time. It showed a better ability to differentiate MP and virus infection.
Kombinierte Hoch‐/Niedrig‐Dosis‐Therapie mit systemischen Glukokor­tikoiden bei schweren Verlaufsformen der Alopecia areata im Kindesalter
Authors: Jahn‐Bassler Karin , Bauer Wolfgang Michael , Karlhofer Franz , Vossen Matthias G. , Stingl Georg
Published: January 2017

Hintergrund

Schwere Verlaufsformen der Alopecia areata (AA) im Kindesalter sind aufgrund limitierter Optionen therapeutisch herausfordernd. Systemische, hochdosierte Glukokortikoide weisen die schnellste Ansprechrate auf, nach dem Absetzen kommt es allerdings zu Rezidiven. Eine längerfristige Hochdosis‐Anwendung ist aufgrund der zu erwartenden Nebenwirkungen nicht empfehlenswert. Eine dauerhafte Steroiderhaltungstherapie unterhalb der Cushing‐Schwellen‐Dosis nach Bolustherapie könnte die Krankheitsaktivität ohne Nebenwirkungen längerfristig unterdrücken.

Patienten und Methodik

Im Rahmen einer offenen Anwendungsbeobachtung wurden 13 Kinder mit schweren Formen der AA in diese Studie eingeschlossen. Bei sieben Kindern lag eine AA totalis/universalis vor, bei sechs eine multifokale AA mit Befall von mehr als 50 % der Kopfhaut. Das Therapieregime sah eine initiale Prednisolon‐Dosierung von 2 mg/kg Körpergeweicht (KG) vor und wurde innerhalb von neun Wochen auf eine Erhaltungsdosierung unter der individuellen Cushing‐Schwelle reduziert. Der Nachbeobachtungszeitraum betrug ein bis drei Jahre.

Ergebnisse

Wir beobachteten in 62 % aller Fälle ein komplettes Nachwachsen der Haare. Die mittlere Dauer bis zum Ansprechen lag bei 6,6 Wochen und konnte mit der Erhaltungstherapie über den gesamten Beobachtungszeitraum aufrechterhalten werden. An Nebenwirkungen wurden ausschließlich eine Gewichtszunahme (1–3 kg) bei allen Behandelten sowie eine milde Steroidakne in 23 % der Fälle beobachtet.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die kombinierte Hoch‐/Niedrig‐Dosis‐Therapie mit systemischen Glukokortikoiden mittels Prednisolon zeigte eine hohe, dauerhafte Ansprechrate ohne signifikante Nebenwirkungen.
Self‐detection frequency and recognition patterns in medium to high‐risk cutaneous melanoma patients
Authors: Sindrilaru Anca , Neckermann Vera , Eigentler Thomas , Kampilafkos Panagiotis , Crisan Diana , Treiber Nicolai , Scharffetter‐Kochanek Karin , Schneider Lars Alexander
Published: January 2017

Background and objectives

The question of how frequently patients with medium to high‐risk melanomas become aware of their tumors and which self‐detection patterns exist remains unanswered.

Patients and methods

We conducted a retrospective survey of melanoma patients who had undergone sentinel node biopsy between 2004 and 2008. One hundred twenty‐seven out of a total of 133 patients completed the questionnaire.

Results

Twenty‐five percent of patients had not noticed their tumors at all. The remaining 75 % showed three different self‐detection patterns, with 25 % of individuals seeking medical advice within 0–12 weeks and another 25 % within 3–6 months. The remaining 25 % had waited for more than six months prior to tumor excision. Age, gender, and melanoma location were comparable in all self‐detection subgroups. The most frequent subtypes were: SSM (59), NMM (31), ALM (9), UCM (9) and LMM (4). Rare subtypes occurred in 15 individuals. Patients with lesions previously noticed for 3–6 months revealed the highest average tumor thickness and the significantly highest number of pT4 tumors. Sixty percent of NMM patients had a disease history < 6 months. Rare subtypes such as amelanotic, spindle cell, or spitzoid melanoma were self‐detected in only 50 % of cases.

Conclusions

Even advanced melanoma lesions remained undetected in 25 % of patients; rare melanoma subtypes, in 50 % of cases. Thus, self‐examination frequency, increased awareness of rare melanoma subtypes, and rapid referral to a specialist ought to be at the center of future awareness campaigns.
Häufigkeit und Muster der Tumorerkennung nach Selbstuntersuchung bei Mittel‐ bis Hochrisiko‐Melanompatienten
Authors: Sindrilaru Anca , Neckermann Vera , Eigentler Thomas , Kampilafkos Panagiotis , Crisan Diana , Treiber Nicolai , Scharffetter‐Kochanek Karin , Schneider Lars Alexander
Published: January 2017

Hintergrund und Zielsetzung

Die Frage, wie oft Melanompatienten mit Mittel‐ bis Hochrisikomelanomen den Tumor bemerken und welche Eigenerkennungsmuster existieren ist bislang nicht beantwortet.

Patienten und Methoden

Wir haben eine retrospektive Studie an Melanompatienten durchgeführt, die sich zwischen 2004 und 2008 einer Sentinellymphknotenbiopsie unterzogen haben,. Der Fragebogen wurde von 127 der insgesamt 133 Patienten ausgefüllt.

Ergebnisse

25 % bemerkten den Tumor überhaupt nicht. Die restlichen 75 % zeigten verschiedene Eigenerkennungsmuster: 25 % holten nach 0–12 Wochen Rat ein, weitere 25 % innerhalb von 3–6 Monaten, und bei den restlichen 25 % wurde der Tumor mehr als sechs Monate lang beobachtet, bevor er entfernt wurde. Alter, Geschlecht und Lokalisation des Melanoms waren bei allen Eigenerkennungsgruppen vergleichbar. Die häufigsten Subtypen waren: SSM (59), NMM (31), ALM (9), UCM (9) und LMM (4). Seltene Subtypen (15) waren ebenfalls vorhanden. Patienten mit 3–6 Monate alten Läsionen zeigten die höchste durchschnittliche Tumordicke und die bei weitem höchste Anzahl von pT4‐Tumoren. 60 % der Patienten mit NMM hatten eine Krankengeschichte von <6 Monaten. Seltene Subtypen wie amelanotische, Spindelzell‐ und spitzoide Melanome wurden in nur 50 % der Fälle selbstständig erkannt.

Schlussfolgerungen

Selbst fortgeschrittene Melanome blieben von den Patienten in 25 %, seltene Melanom‐Subtypen in 50 % der Fälle unerkannt. Daher sollte der Eigenerkennungshäufigkeit, dem erhöhten Bewusstsein für seltene Melanome und der schnellen Überweisung an einen Spezialisten in zukünftigen Aufklärungskampagnen besondere Aufmerksamkeit zukommen.
Assessment of left ventricular functions and myocardial iron load with tissue Doppler and speckle tracking echocardiography and T2* MRI in patients with β‐thalassemia major
Authors: Ari Mehmet Emre , Ekici Filiz , Çetin İbrahim İlker , Tavil Emine Betül , Yaralı Neşe , Işık Pamir , Hazırolan Tuncay , Tunç Bahattin
Published: January 2017

Background

The purpose of this study is to determine early myocardial dysfunction in β‐thalassemia major (BTM) patients. Where the myocardial dysfunction cannot be detected by conventional echocardiography, it could be detected by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) or speckle tracking echocardiography (STE).

Methods

In this study, we analyzed 60 individuals, 30 of whom were BTM patients and the other 30 of whom were the control group. T2* magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to measure cardiac iron deposition. The myocardial functions were evaluated by conventional echocardiography, TDI and STE.

Results

When basal lateral left ventricular and basal septal wall TDI values were compared between the patient group and control group, only isovolumic contraction time values were significantly longer in the patients. The global circumferential strain was significantly lower in the patients. When evaluated as segmental, longitudinal strain values of basal inferoseptum and circumferential strain values of anteroseptum, anterior, and inferolateral segments were significantly lower in the patients. In the patients, global longitudinal and circumferential strains in the group who had pathological T2* values were significantly lower than the group who did not. In addition, circumferential strain values in anteroseptum, anterolateral, inferior, and inferoseptum segments were significantly lower in the patients with T2* values<20 ms than those with T2* values≥20 ms.

Conclusion

Although T2* MRI is the most sensitive test detecting myocardial iron load, TDI and STE can be used for screening myocardial dysfunction. The abnormal strain values, especially circumferential, may be detected as the first finding of abnormal iron load and related to T2* values.
Two basic approaches in a search of the crack propagation angle
Authors: Matvienko Y. G. , Morozov E. M.
Published: January 2017

Two basic approaches in predicting crack paths have been analysed, namely, incremental method and integral (global) method. Incremental methods are associated with the local criterion of fracture mechanics and pointed out on the estimation of an angle between directions of the initial crack propagation and succeeding crack increment. The local fracture criterion of the maximum average tangential stress in the vicinity of fracture process zone including two terms of the Williams series solution for the mixed mode I/II loading has been used for predicting the angle of surface crack growth under conditions of rolling–sliding. The integral method is associated with a variation principle of fracture mechanics. This principle postulates the minimum of the certain functional. This functional contains the weight function depending on the stress and strain state in the uncracked solid and search functions which are described the crack propagation angle on the surface. To validate the variation principle in the search of crack trajectory, this trajectory has been estimated for plates under different loading conditions.
Emerging Adaptation of Local Clusters in China in a Shifting Global Economy: Evidence from the Furniture Cluster in Houjie Town, Dongguan
Authors: Yang Chun , Fu Tianlan , Li Lixun
Published: January 2017

At the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, a dramatic restructuring of global value chains (GVCs) was witnessed along with the transformation of industrial clusters in developing countries such as China. However, little research has been conducted on exploring the interaction between the evolution of GVCs and local clusters in the dynamic global‐local interaction. By attempting to forge links between GVC restructuring and the adaptation of local clusters from the perspective of evolutionary economic geography, this paper explores the emerging adaptation of the furniture cluster in Houjie town, Dongguan, China in the crisis and post‐crisis recovery. The study is conducted on the basis of on‐site field investigations, particularly in‐depth firm‐level interviews during the period April 2012 to January 2014. Taking the furniture industry as a case, it examines the positive and negative effects of weak and strong lock‐ins of the prevailing export‐oriented cluster, reflected by the negative impact of export tax rebate policies and the positive effect of the International Famous Furniture Fair on furniture firms' attempt to tap into China's domestic market. The paper urges more empirical analysis to better understand the dynamic interaction between the global shift of production and markets, as well as the adaptation of local clusters in a shifting global economy.
Antimicrobial activity of metal cation‐exchanged zeolites and their evaluation on injection‐molded pieces of bio‐based high‐density polyethylene
Authors: Torres‐Giner Sergio , Torres Ana , Ferrándiz Marcela , Fombuena Vicent , Balart Rafael
Published: January 2017

In this study, three different natural types of unmodified zeolite (chabazite, mordenite, and faujasite) were initially characterized for their morphology, elemental composition, and antimicrobial activity against foodborne bacteria and fungi. The chabazite‐type zeolite was selected due to its optimal morphology and lowest silicon to aluminum ratio (Si/Al). This was then solution exchanged with different combinations of silver (Ag+), copper (Cu2+), and zinc (Zn2+) ions to prepare single, binary, and ternary metal cation‐modified zeolites. Antimicrobial results clearly indicated that Ag‐based zeolites exhibited more antimicrobial activity than Cu‐ and Zn‐based zeolites. Interestingly, the multi‐ionic zeolite, that is, the ternary Ag‐Cu‐Zn‐zeolite, was the most efficient antimicrobial sample in terms of the amount of added silver. In the last step, the obtained multi‐ionic zeolite was, for the first time, incorporated at different weight amounts (1, 5, 10, and 15 wt%) into a bio‐based high‐density polyethylene (bio‐HDPE) matrix by extrusion and shaped into pieces by injection molding. Novel sustainable polymer composite pieces with improved stiffness and hardness and high antimicrobial activity were obtained. These treated materials offer industrial relevance to control the growth of harmful microorganisms in hygiene applications related to the food industry.

Practical applications

The here‐developed injection‐molded composite pieces based on green polyethylene and multi‐ionic zeolites showed enhanced mechanical performance and high biocide effect against foodborne bacteria and fungi. Resultant sustainable pieces confirmed good perspectives for their use as functional surfaces capable to control the growth of harmful microorganisms in environments for processing, preparation, and storage of food. Therefore, these novel antimicrobial materials are potential candidates in hygiene applications such as plastic handles, cutlery, rigid packaging, kitchen furnishing, cutting boards, and decontamination surfaces.
Household Income and Trajectories of Marital Satisfaction in Early Marriage
Authors: Jackson Grace L. , Krull Jennifer L. , Bradbury Thomas N. , Karney Benjamin R.
Published: January 2017

Are the marriages of lower income couples less satisfying than the marriages of more affluent couples? To address this question, we compared trajectories of marital satisfaction among couples with a wide range of household incomes. The marital satisfaction of 862 Black, White, and Latino newlywed spouses (N = 431 couples) was assessed five times, each 9 months apart, during the first 4 years of marriage. Lower income couples did not have less satisfying marriages on average, nor did their satisfaction decline more steeply on average. They did, however, experience (a) significantly greater fluctuations in marital satisfaction across assessments and (b) significantly more variability between husbands and wives. If efforts to support the marriages of low‐income couples are to address the unique characteristics of their marital development, these findings suggest that efforts to stabilize their marriages may be more effective than efforts to improve their satisfaction alone.
Deterministic Tractography of the Descending Tract of the Spinal Trigeminal Nerve Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Authors: Burkett Daniel J. , Garst Jonathan R. , Hill Jacquelyn P. , Kam Anthony , Anderson Douglas E.
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Pain information from the face enters the pons via the trigeminal nerve before creating an anatomical “elbow” that turns caudally into the spinal trigeminal tract (SpTV). Visualization of the descending tract of the trigeminal nerve as it begins its descent from the nerve root entry zone (NREZ) in the pons would improve the accuracy of current procedures aimed at altering or lesioning the trigeminal nerve within the brainstem. The focus of this study was to develop a standardized protocol using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and deterministic tractography methods to image the SpTV. There are currently no standard techniques used to visualize the trigeminal nerve using DTI.

METHODS

DTI and tractography were performed on 20 patients: 17 with trigeminal neuralgia (TN), 1 with hemifacial spasm, 1 with a facial nerve tumor, and 1 with an arteriovenous malformation. A standardized protocol was developed using regions of interest (ROIs) located at the SpTV, as determined by a brainstem atlas, and the NREZ.

RESULTS

Using our standardized protocol, the descending tract of the trigeminal nerve was successfully visualized in all 20 patients. Trigeminal fibers entered the pons at the NREZ and descended through the SpTV. The accuracy of the visualized tract was confirmed through coregistration with a stereotactic atlas and anatomical scan.

CONCLUSION

A successful, robust DTI imaging and postprocessing protocol of the SpTV contributes to our understanding of its anatomical distribution within the brainstem and is a potentially new neurosurgical planning tool.
Religion, Secular Humanism, and Atheism: Multi‐Institutional Politics and the USAFA Cadets’ Freethinkers Group
Authors: Konieczny Mary Ellen , Rogers Megan C.
Published: January 2017

The recent emergence of atheist movements despite marginalization and distrust by a majority of Americans has been explained as a successful deployment of identity politics, but scholars have less often considered the importance of how identity and power intersect with political opportunity occurring within organizational and religious fields. Analyzing the case of the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) Cadet Freethinkers Group, we demonstrate that although it encountered opportunity in the organizational shock of the 2004 USAFA proselytism controversy, this opportunity was not a blank check, but instead afforded some possibilities for action and not others. Freethinkers’ actions to secure official recognition were limited by (1) their low placement in the chain of command and (2) a collective identity inclusive of secular humanism and atheism, which did not produce enough unity to take collective actions risking punishment, and created ambiguity vis‐à‐vis religion that allowed USAFA administrators to accept or deny their institutional membership claims through appeal, respectively, to functional or substantive definitions of religion.
Human capability in the perception of extensional and shear viscosity
Authors: Lv Zhihong , Chen Jianshe , Holmes Melvin
Published: January 2017

Shear and extensional deformation are two basic rheological phenomena which occur commonly in our daily life. Because of the very different nature of the two deformations, fluid materials may exhibit significant differences in their responses to shear and extensional forces. This work investigated the human perception of shear and extensional viscosity and tested the hypothesis that human have different discriminatory sensation mechanisms including scaling to the two deformations. A series of fluid samples were prepared using two common food thickeners, guar gum and sodium carboxylmethylcellulose (CMC‐Na). The shear and extensional flow behavior of these fluids were assessed using shear and extensional rheometers and in addition two separate sensory analysis sessions were organized to assess human sensitivity in perceiving the two viscosities. Magnitude estimation was used in the first session to assess human sensitivity in the perception of the shear and extensional viscosities and just‐noticeable‐difference (JND) assessment was used for the second session to identify the typical threshold of viscosity discrimination. For the participants considered, it was found that the perception of both shear and extensional viscosity follow a power law relationship i.e. Steven's law. It was also observed that the human has a greater discriminatory capacity in perceiving extensional viscosity. JND analysis showed that the human threshold in detecting shear viscosity difference was 9.33%, but only 6.20% for extensional viscosity.

Practical applications

Shear and extensional deformation are two basic rheological properties which occur during food manipulation, mastication, deglutition executed during oral consumption and also in the processing and packaging of foods. Fluid resistance against shear and extensional deformation differ widely and whilst this has been confirmed theoretically and experimentally, a clear understanding of human perception of these properties will have beneficial returns to the food industry in designing and manufacturing of high quality, nutritious food to suit consumers' need (Laguna, Aktar, Ettelaie, Holmes, & Chen, 2016).
Blood mercury concentrations in common bottlenose dolphins from the Indian River Lagoon, Florida: Patterns of social distribution
Authors: Titcomb Elizabeth Murdoch , Reif John S. , Fair Patricia A. , Stavros Hui‐Chen W. , Mazzoil Marilyn , Bossart Gregory D. , Schaefer Adam M.
Published: January 2017

Social network analysis has been shown to be effective in studying the social structure of cetacean populations. Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) inhabiting the Indian River Lagoon (IRL), Florida, have among the highest concentrations of total mercury (THg) in blood reported worldwide. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between THg concentrations in IRL dolphins and their social affiliations. Whole blood samples from 98 dolphins with photo‐identification sighting histories were collected between 2003–2007 and 2010–2012. Dolphins were categorized into approximate tertiles of low (mean 199.7 μg/L), medium (mean 366.8 μg/L), and high (mean 990.5 μg/L) THg exposure. Social associations between individual dolphins were defined by the proportion of sightings documented with another known individual. Social network measures of individuals and associations between dyads were examined to determine differences among THg categories. Strong social affiliations of individuals within the highest category of THg were found (P = 0.04), suggesting shared exposures among dolphins foraging in specific areas of the estuary. Network measures of strength and affinity were significantly higher in the highest exposure category. This report used social network analysis as a novel way to examine patterns of exposure to an environmental contaminant in a cetacean population.
Maternal Interpersonal Trauma and Child Social‐Emotional Development: An Intergenerational Effect
Authors: Folger Alonzo T. , Putnam Karen T. , Putnam Frank W. , Peugh James L. , Eismann Emily A. , Sa Ting , Shapiro Robert A. , Van Ginkel Judith B. , Ammerman Robert T.
Published: January 2017

Background

Evidence suggests that maternal interpersonal trauma can adversely affect offspring health, but little is known about potential transmission pathways. We investigated whether interpersonal trauma exposure had direct and indirect associations with offspring social‐emotional development at 12‐months of age in an at‐risk, home visited population.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted of 1172 mother‐child dyads who participated in a multi‐site, early childhood home visiting program. Children were born January 2007 to June 2010 and data were collected at enrolment (prenatal/birth) through 12‐months of age. Multivariable path analyses were used to examine the relationship between maternal interpersonal trauma, subsequent psychosocial mediators (maternal depressive symptoms, social support, and home environment), and the outcome of child social‐emotional development measured with the Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social‐Emotional (ASQ:SE). Maternal interpersonal trauma was characterized as any previous exposure, the level of exposure, and type (e.g. abuse) of exposure.

Results

The prevalence of maternal interpersonal trauma exposure was 69.1%, and exposures ranged from 1 type (19.3%) to 7 types (2.3%). Interpersonal trauma was associated with a 3.6 point (95% confidence interval 1.8, 5.4) higher ASQ:SE score among offspring and indicated greater developmental risk. An estimated 23.4% of the total effect was mediated by increased maternal depressive symptoms and lower social support. Differential effects were observed by the level and type of interpersonal trauma exposure.

Conclusion

Maternal interpersonal trauma exposures can negatively impact child social‐emotional development, acting in part through maternal psychosocial factors. Future research is needed to further elucidate the mechanisms of intergenerational risk.