bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guidelines for Quantitative Evaluation of Medical Visualizations on the Example of 3D Aneurysm Surface Comparisons
Authors: Saalfeld P. , Luz M. , Berg P. , Preim B. , Saalfeld S.
Published: July 2017

Medical visualizations are highly adapted to a specific medical application scenario. Therefore, many researchers conduct qualitative evaluations with a low number of physicians or medical experts to assess the benefits of their visualization technique. Although this type of research has advantages, it is difficult to reproduce and can be subjectively biased. This makes it problematic to quantify the benefits of a new visualization technique. Quantitative evaluation can objectify research and help bringing new visualization techniques into clinical practice. To support researchers, we present guidelines to quantitatively evaluate medical visualizations, considering specific characteristics and difficulties. We demonstrate the adaptation of these guidelines on the example of comparative aneurysm surface visualizations. We developed three visualization techniques to compare aneurysm volumes. The visualization techniques depict two similar, but not identical aneurysm surface meshes. In a user study with 34 participants and five aneurysm data sets, we assessed objective measures (accuracy and required time) and subjective ratings (suitability and likeability). The provided guidelines and presentation of different stages of the evaluation allow for an easy adaptation to other application areas of medical visualization.
Towards a new epistemology of moral progress
Authors: Stokes Patrick
Published: July 2017

Abstract: Awareness that moral beliefs and practices have changed across time threatens our confidence in our current moral beliefs: if past moral beliefs turned out to be wrong, how can we be sure ours aren't likewise mistaken? In this paper, I set up four desiderata for a successful theory of moral progress: it must allow us to judge that progress has occurred, avoid the image of increasing correspondence towards ahistorical truthmakers, allow for revision in belief, and yet not be disobligating. Rorty's pragmatist account of moral progress delivers on the first three, but at the cost of failing to meet the fourth: it drains moral beliefs of their categorical force. I then outline K.E. Løgstrup's understanding of the relation between the ‘ethical demand’ and changing, socially mediated norms. While Løgstrup does posit an unchanging ground of normativity ‐ the “ethical demand” to act for the sake of the other whose welfare is in our hands – he also thinks that changing social norms are an indispensable part of ethical life. I argue that Løgstrup's discussion of the ‘refraction‘ of the ethical demand through changing social norms provides resources for an account of moral progress that fulfils these four desiderata.
Aphid suitability for the predatory hoverfly Episyrphus balteatus altered with elevating atmospheric CO2 and sinigrin
Authors: Sadeghi‐Namaghi Hussein , Amiri‐Jami Alireza , Shoor Mahmoud
Published: July 2017

The fitness of natural enemies should be altered in response to changes in herbivore quality induced by the impact of increased atmospheric CO2 levels on plants. We studied the effect of different CO2 levels on the aphid predator Episyrphus balteatus DeGeer fed either specialist or generalist aphids reared on either of two host plants under laboratory conditions. In the host plant that contains sinigrin (black mustard), elevated CO2 increased the sinigrin content of both host plant and the specialist aphid, but reduced the already very low levels in the generalist aphid. Predator development time increased with elevated CO2, while fecundity decreased. Consequently, individual fitness decreased slightly with increasing atmospheric CO2. Sinigrin significantly decreased fecundity and increased development time of the predator. As a result, fitness was significantly lower too. The consumption rate was influenced significantly by plant and prey solely and the interactions of host plant × prey type and CO2 level × prey type. Further research on the effects of climate change parameters (e.g. greenhouse gases such as CO2, ozone (O3) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), etc.) separately and jointly under controlled environmental conditions will help to understand the nature and direction of their effects on natural enemies as part of the tritrophic system.
A residual stress dependent multiaxial fatigue life model of welded structures
Authors: Liu Z.C. , Jiang C. , Li B.C. , Wang X.G.
Published: July 2017

In this paper, the influence of the residual stress on the fatigue performance of a welded structure under multiaxial loading modes is studied. First, the local stress state at weld toe is modified via introduction of the residual stress, and a new fatigue life estimation model considering the effect of the residual stress is established by modifying our recently proposed critical plane method. Second, the basic theory and procedure of the finite element simulation on the calculation of the welding residual stress are presented. Finally, a numerical simulation of an aluminum alloy flange‐to‐tube welding process is conducted, and the calculated residual stress is verified with X‐ray diffraction measurement. Furthermore, the performance of the proposed fatigue life estimation model is verified by the experimental data obtained in the fatigue test under different loading modes. It confirms that the consideration of the residual stress is important, especially under the out‐of‐phase loading mode.
Zero thermal expansion in cubic MgZrF6
Authors: Xu Jiale , Hu Lei , Song Yuzhu , Han Fei , Qiao Yongqiang , Deng Jinxia , Chen Jun , Xing Xianran
Published: July 2017

Isotropic zero thermal expansion (ZTE) is rare but intriguing physical property in materials. Here, we report an isotropic ZTE property in a double ReO3‐type compound of MgZrF6, which exhibits a negligible value of coefficient of thermal expansion (αl = −7.94 × 10−7 K−1 (XRD), αl = −4.22 × 10−7 K−1 (dilatometry), 300‐675 K). The ZTE mechanism of MgZrF6 is understood by the joint studies of temperature dependence of crystal structure and lattice dynamics. Interestingly, different magnitudes of atomic displacement parameters (ADPs) for the fluorine atoms in MZrF6 (M = Ca, Ni, Mg) are found. The strong temperature sensitivity of ADPs demonstrates intensive transverse thermal vibration of fluorine atoms, which contributes essentially to the negative thermal expansion of CaZrF6. By contrast, for NiZrF6 with positive thermal expansion, the temperature response of ADPs is weak. Moderate transverse thermal vibration takes place in MgZrF6, and ZTE appears. Furthermore, lattice dynamics of MgZrF6 is studied by temperature‐dependent Raman spectroscopy, which reveals the ZTE mechanism. In particular, the F2g and Ag modes, corresponding to the bending and stretching vibrations of fluorine atoms, respectively, neither soften nor harden over the whole temperature range, which is correlated with the isotropic ZTE property of MgZrF6.
Phylogenetic estimates of diversification rate are affected by molecular rate variation
Authors: Duchêne D. A. , Hua X. , Bromham L.
Published: July 2017

Molecular phylogenies are increasingly being used to investigate the patterns and mechanisms of macroevolution. In particular, node heights in a phylogeny can be used to detect changes in rates of diversification over time. Such analyses rest on the assumption that node heights in a phylogeny represent the timing of diversification events, which in turn rests on the assumption that evolutionary time can be accurately predicted from DNA sequence divergence. But there are many influences on the rate of molecular evolution, which might also influence node heights in molecular phylogenies, and thus affect estimates of diversification rate. In particular, a growing number of studies have revealed an association between the net diversification rate estimated from phylogenies and the rate of molecular evolution. Such an association might, by influencing the relative position of node heights, systematically bias estimates of diversification time. We simulated the evolution of DNA sequences under several scenarios where rates of diversification and molecular evolution vary through time, including models where diversification and molecular evolutionary rates are linked. We show that commonly used methods, including metric‐based, likelihood and Bayesian approaches, can have a low power to identify changes in diversification rate when molecular substitution rates vary. Furthermore, the association between the rates of speciation and molecular evolution rate can cause the signature of a slowdown or speedup in speciation rates to be lost or misidentified. These results suggest that the multiple sources of variation in molecular evolutionary rates need to be considered when inferring macroevolutionary processes from phylogenies.
Building Norms from the Grassroots Up: Divestment, Expressive Politics, and Climate Change
Authors: Gunningham Neil
Published: July 2017

The fossil fuel divestment movement is at the forefront of civil society initiatives to raise public consciousness about the need for a “fossil‐free” future. Through the lens of the social movement literature, this article shows how the movement has harnessed grassroots activists, engaged in innovative and sometimes disruptive forms of protest, and used cognitive framing and symbolic politics to gain media interest and persuade the public of the importance and legitimacy of its claims as well as to promote a new social norm. The relative instrumental, structural, and discursive power of the movement and its adversaries is also examined, showing how, notwithstanding the fossil fuel industry's deeply embedded structural and instrumental power, the movement has managed to shift the contest onto a terrain where it holds a comparative advantage. Finally, the movement's role in nonstate climate governance is considered, taking account of its interactions with and impact on a range of other climate actors. This article's conclusion is that climate governance is not only an instrumental or pragmatic process of mandating changes in behavior but an expressive and symbolic one of nurturing a new norm and institutionalizing a new set of moral principles.
The Neotropical otter Lontra longicaudis: a comprehensive update on the current knowledge and conservation status of this semiaquatic carnivore
Authors: Rheingantz Marcelo Lopes , Santiago‐Plata Victor Manuel , Trinca Cristine Silveira
Published: July 2017

The Neotropical otter Lontra longicaudis is a widespread semiaquatic carnivore living in a wide variety of environments in both fresh‐water and salt‐water ecosystems. We summarise the current knowledge on distribution, ecology, behaviour, evolution and conservation status of the species, and highlight the main threats that have been affecting it as well as priority actions for securing its survival.

The current geographical range of Lontra longicaudis is discussed, as well as several efforts that have been made to update knowledge of the range. Throughout its known distribution area, the Neotropical otter has high genetic diversity, and recent molecular research suggests that variations in genetic diversity are related to geography. Taxonomic issues regarding the existence of subspecies persist, mainly due to limited sampling in key portions of the species’ range.

Although the Neotropical otter is widely distributed in Latin America and has flexible behaviour, it is subjected to a variety of threats, which lead this otter to be officially considered Threatened in several countries within its geographical range.

The species still faces an uncertain future due to the impact of human activities, thus justifying its classification as Near Threatened in the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List. The real level of human‐otter conflicts and the impact of modified environments on Neotropical otter populations are still unclear, and must be a priority focus of future studies.

There is an urgent need to increase our knowledge on aspects of the Neotropical otter's biology, such as reproduction, generation time, behaviour, physiology, distribution limits, sanitary aspects, evolution and taxonomy. Understanding these topics is vital to ensure the long‐term survival of the species, both at the local and at the regional scale, as well as to provide the basis for environmental education actions involving local riverside human communities

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Logical Form and the Vernacular Revisited
Authors: Botterell Andrew , Stainton Robert J.
Published: July 2017

We revisit a debate initiated some 15 years ago by Ray Elugardo and Robert Stainton about the domain of arguments. Our main result is that arguments are not exclusively sets of linguistic expressions. Instead, as we put it, some non‐linguistic items have ‘logical form’. The crucial examples are arguments, both deductive and inductive, made with unembedded words and phrases.

… subsentential expressions such as singular terms and predicates… cannot serve as premises or conclusions in inferences (R. Brandom, 2000, p. 40).
The antiphasic regulatory module comprising CDF5 and its antisense RNA FLORE links the circadian clock to photoperiodic flowering
Authors: Henriques Rossana , Wang Huan , Liu Jun , Boix Marc , Huang Li‐Fang , Chua Nam‐Hai
Published: July 2017

Circadian rhythms of gene expression are generated by the combinatorial action of transcriptional and translational feedback loops as well as chromatin remodelling events. Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that are natural antisense transcripts (NATs) to transcripts encoding central oscillator components were proposed as modulators of core clock function in mammals (Per) and fungi (frq/qrf). Although oscillating lncRNAs exist in plants, their functional characterization is at an initial stage.

By screening an Arabidopsis thaliana lncRNA custom‐made array we identified CDF5 LONG NONCODING RNA (FLORE), a circadian‐regulated lncRNA that is a NAT of CDF5. Quantitative real‐time RT‐PCR confirmed the circadian regulation of FLORE, whereas GUS‐staining and flowering time evaluation were used to determine its biological function.

FLORE and CDF5 antiphasic expression reflects mutual inhibition in a similar way to frq/qrf. Moreover, whereas the CDF5 protein delays flowering by directly repressing FT transcription, FLORE promotes it by repressing several CDFs (CDF1, CDF3, CDF5) and increasing FT transcript levels, indicating both cis and trans function.

We propose that the CDF5/FLORE NAT pair constitutes an additional circadian regulatory module with conserved (mutual inhibition) and unique (function in trans) features, able to fine‐tune its own circadian oscillation, and consequently, adjust the onset of flowering to favourable environmental conditions.
Soft tissue sarcomas: From a morphological to a molecular biological approach
Authors: Oda Yoshinao , Yamamoto Hidetaka , Kohashi Kenichi , Yamada Yuichi , Iura Kunio , Ishii Takeaki , Maekawa Akira , Bekki Hirofumi
Published: July 2017

Recently developed molecular genetic techniques have led to the elucidation of tumor‐specific genomic alterations and thereby the reclassification of tumor entities of soft tissue sarcoma. A solitary fibrous tumor‐mimicking tumor with the AHRR‐NCOA2 gene has been isolated as angiofibroma of soft tissue. As for small round cell sarcomas, novel fusion genes such as CIC‐DUX4 and BCOR‐CCNB3 have been identified in these tumor groups. SMARCB1/INI1 deficient tumors with round cell morphology are also expected to be reclassified in three types, based on the combination of their morphology and genotype. The identification of the MDM2 gene amplification in pleomorphic sarcomas has extended the entity of dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLS). Our recent molecular investigations elucidated candidates for novel therapeutic strategies. Activation of the Akt‐mTOR pathway was correlated with poor prognosis or tumor grade in spindle cell sarcomas including malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor. In vitro and in vivo studies of transcription factor Forkhead Box M1 (FOXM1) demonstrated the close correlation between aggressive biological behavior or chemosensitivity and FOXM1 expression in synovial sarcoma, so far. Finally, in regard to the investigation of cancer‐testis antigens, myxoid/round cell liposarcoma and synovial sarcoma showed frequent and high expression of PRAME and NY‐ESO‐1.
Revisiting the Page & Schroeder model: the good, the bad and the unknowns in the periodontal host response 40 years later
Authors: Hajishengallis George , Korostoff Jonathan M.
Published: July 2017

In their classic 1976 paper, Page & Schroeder described the histopathologic events and the types of myeloid cells and lymphocytes involved in the initiation and progression of inflammatory periodontal disease. The staging of periodontal disease pathogenesis as ‘initial’, ‘early’, ‘established’ and ‘advanced’ lesions productively guided subsequent research in the field and remains fundamentally valid. However, major advances regarding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the induction, regulation and effector functions of immune and inflammatory responses necessitate a reassessment of their work and its integration with emerging new concepts. We now know that each type of leukocyte is actually represented by functionally distinct subsets with different, or even conflicting, roles in immunity and inflammation. Unexpectedly, neutrophils, traditionally regarded as merely antimicrobial effectors in acute conditions and protagonists of the ‘initial’ lesion, are currently appreciated for their functional versatility and critical roles in chronic inflammation. Moreover, an entirely new field of study, osteoimmunology, has emerged and sheds light on the impact of immunoinflammatory events on the skeletal system. These developments and the molecular dissection of crosstalk interactions between innate and adaptive leukocytes, as well as between the immune system and local homeostatic mechanisms, offer a more nuanced understanding of the host response in periodontitis, with profound implications for treatment. At the same time, deeper insights have generated new questions, many of which remain unanswered. In this review, 40 years after Page & Schroeder proposed their model, we summarize enduring and emerging advances in periodontal disease pathogenesis.
What Is Our Real Concern with Real Inequality?
Authors: Nielsen Lasse
Published: July 2017

In this article, I offer an account of when and why inequality is problematic. I build this account upon the central elements of the sufficiency view—that justice is concerned with eliminating noncomparative deficiencies rather than comparative inequalities. The account that I develop here is concerned with an inequality if, and only if, it involves an instance of noncomparative deficiency; either material or social. I then conduct an analysis of suggested reasons to care about inequality identified in recent studies of the politics of inequality, and I argue that the sufficiency account can explain the reasons that empiricists give for their concern with inequality. Upon that analysis, I conclude that we have strong reasons to be concerned with inequalities, but that these reasons stem from our acceptance of the sufficiency view rather than from an intrinsic worry with inequality.
A Critical Perspective on Evidence‐Based Policy Making
Authors: Larson Samantha J.
Published: July 2017

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Tropicality, the unruly Atlantic and social utopias: the French explorer Henri Coudreau (1859 − 1899)
Authors: Ferretti Federico
Published: July 2017

This paper addresses the works of Henri Coudreau, a little‐known French explorer of Guiana and Amazonia who was later forgotten by the ‘heroic’ histories of exploration because of his unruliness and nonconformist attitudes. Drawing on the literature of postcolonialism and tropicality as well as on recent studies of anti‐colonialist geographies, I address for the first time Coudreau's geography from the perspective of anarchist and critical thinking. My main argument is that Coudreau's work is a further example of the complexity and heterogeneity of the European intellectual field during the imperial age. Despite having come of age intellectually among all the European racist and ethnocentric prejudices of his day, Coudreau developed a different outlook thanks to two factors, viz., his personal experience in living for years with the indigenous communities of Amazonia, and his exposure to anarchist anti‐colonialist ideas through his collaboration with Elisée Reclus. Coudreau's tropical utopia of an independent Amazonia, and his endorsement of the stateless nature of local communities, ran counter to French imperial politics, occasioning Coudreau's dismissal from the French administration and his professional exile in Brazil at the time of the Franco‐Brazilian border dispute (1897−1900).
An Ecological Investigation of the Emotional Context Surrounding Nonsuicidal Self‐Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Kranzler Amy , Fehling Kara B. , Lindqvist Janne , Brillante Julia , Yuan Fengpeng , Gao Xianyi , Miller Alec L. , Selby Edward A.
Published: July 2017

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) methodology was used to examine the emotional context of nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI). Forty‐seven adolescents and young adults used a novel smartphone app to monitor their emotional experiences, NSSI thoughts, and NSSI behaviors for 2 weeks. Momentary changes in both negative and positive emotions predicted greater intensity of NSSI thoughts at the subsequent assessment, while only increases in negative emotion predicted NSSI behaviors. Immediately following NSSI behaviors participants reported reduced high‐arousal negative emotions and increased low‐arousal positive emotions, suggesting that NSSI may be an efficient and effective method of regulating emotion. Findings highlight the importance of addressing emotion regulation in NSSI interventions.
Risk a Lot to Save a Lot: How Firefighters Decide Whose Life Matters,
Authors: Scarborough Roscoe C.
Published: July 2017

Firefighters make life‐or‐death decisions based on shared understandings of whose lives matter. Drawing on three years of participant observation as a volunteer firefighter and 30 semistructured interviews, I examine tensions surrounding the value firefighters place on their own lives and the lives of the public they serve. There is a tension between firefighters and their officers over the value of a firefighter's life. Firefighters tend to be cavalier in their willingness to endanger their own lives in high‐risk situations, while fire officers feel responsible for protecting the lives of their crew. A second tension exists between prejudiced individuals and an institutional culture of public service. Some firefighters harbor individual prejudices, which are at odds with an institutional culture of egalitarian service. Fire service, state, county, department, crew, and peer cultures suppress individual prejudices. This case study suggests that deep integration into an institutional culture of public service mitigates discriminatory behavior. Instead of evaluating discrimination among first responders as an individual‐level trouble, bias and its associated dysfunctions can be reframed as a social issue to be ameliorated through cultural reform.
Cytomegalovirus viral load in cord blood and impact of congenital infection on markers of hematopoietic progenitor cell potency
Authors: Albano M. Susana , Ciubotariu Rodica , Dobrila Ludy , Tarnawski Michal , DeLeon Margely , Watanabe Chiseko , Krishnan Siddarth , Scaradavou Andromachi , Rubinstein Pablo
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

The low incidence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in neonates decreases the risk of viral transmission with cord blood transplantation. Cord blood donors are screened by testing the maternal sample for total antibodies to CMV. Some cord blood banks also screen cord blood for CMV‐DNA. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay to measure CMV viral load in cord blood from asymptomatic infants with congenital CMV infection and to assess the impact of CMV infection on cord blood hematopoietic progenitor cell concentrations and colony‐forming unit functionality.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

CMV infection was evaluated in two groups of cord blood donors: 1) 30,308 neonates prospectively screened by saliva culture, including 41 positive cases (0.14%), all from mothers with total antibodies to CMV; and 2) 4712 newborns from mothers with total antibodies to CMV who were screened retrospectively by polymerase chain reaction, including 18 positive cases (0.38%). All 59 infants with CMV were asymptomatic at birth.

RESULTS

Among the 59 positive cases, the average CMV viral load in cord blood was 20.6 × 104 viral copies (vc)/mL; seven of 59 mothers (12%) had CMV‐DNA detected, however, with no association to their newborns' CMV viral load. Levels of colony‐forming units, CD34+/CD45+ cells, and total nucleated cells measured in a cohort of CMV‐positive cord blood samples were higher than those in the matched control group.

CONCLUSION

We developed and validated a multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay to detect CMV‐DNA in cord blood. In our study, maternal total antibodies to CMV or CMV‐DNA at birth were poor predictors of infection in cord blood donors. Furthermore, our results suggest that CMV congenital infection impacts CD34+/CD45+ cells and some hematopoietic progenitor cells toward higher proliferation.
Does the computed tomographic appearance of the lung differ between young and old dogs?
Authors: Hornby Natasha L. , Lamb Christopher R.
Published: July 2017

In computed tomographic (CT) images of humans, decreased lung attenuation, bronchial dilation, and/or thickening, air trapping, cysts, and thickened interlobular septa have been associated with increasing age. To determine if there are differences in the CT appearance of the lungs of young and old dogs that could affect interpretation of diagnostic studies, pulmonary CT images of dogs with conditions unrelated to the thorax were reviewed retrospectively in a case–control study. Computed tomography studies of 42 young dogs (range 0.3–4.8 years) and 47 old dogs (range 9–15.1 years) were jumbled and reviewed by an observer blinded to dog age. Computed tomography was performed under sedation in 62 (70%) dogs and under general anesthesia in 27 (30%). Heterotopic bone was more prevalent (62% vs. 14%) in old dogs. Lung collapse was significantly associated with old age, greater body weight, and anesthesia. There were no significant differences in median lung attenuation or occurrence of ground glass pattern, cysts, bronchial thickening, bronchial dilation, or degree of tracheal calcification. No examples of reticular pattern, emphysema, pleural thickening, or septal thickening were observed in any dog. Despite previous studies describing age‐related changes in the radiographic appearance of the lungs of old dogs, it appears that there are minimal observable differences in CT images. Old dogs are more likely to have visible foci of heterotopic bone and may be more prone to lung lobe collapse than young dogs, but neither of these differences should contribute to misdiagnosis of pulmonary disease.
Clinical and imaging findings, treatments, and outcomes in 27 dogs with imaging diagnosed trigeminal nerve sheath tumors: A multi‐center study
Authors: Swift Katie E. , McGrath Stephanie , Nolan Michael W. , Young Martin , Reese Michael , Rao Sangeeta , Randall Elissa , Leary Del , LaRue Susan
Published: July 2017

The clinical behavior of canine trigeminal nerve sheath tumors and benefits of previously reported treatments are incompletely defined. Aims of this retrospective, multicenter, observational study were to describe clinical signs, tumor localization characteristics, treatments, and clinical outcomes in a group of dogs with this neoplasm. Databases at four hospitals were reviewed for dogs with a trigeminal nerve sheath tumor diagnosis, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies, and presentation between 2004 and 2014. A single observer recorded medical record findings and two observers recorded MRI characteristics by consensus. A total of 27 dogs met inclusion criteria (15 treated with stereotactic radiation therapy and 12 unirradiated). Two unirradiated dogs were excluded from outcome analyses. The most common presenting signs were masticatory muscle atrophy (26 dogs), neurologic signs referable to intracranial disease (13), and ocular disease (12). Based on MRI findings, all dogs had disease extending centrally at the level of the brainstem. The most commonly affected trigeminal nerve branches were the mandibular (26 dogs), maxillary (22), and ophthalmic (10). Of 15 dogs treated with stereotactic radiation therapy, one had improved muscle atrophy, and six had poor ocular health after treatment. Neurologic signs improved in 4/5 dogs with intracranial signs. Overall median survival time for the 10 unirradiated dogs with available follow‐up was 12 days and 441 days for the 15 stereotactic radiation therapy dogs. Mean survival times between these groups were not significantly different (mean 95% CI for unirradiated dogs was 44–424 days and mean 95% CI for stereotactic radiation therapy dogs was 260–518 days).
DESIGN OF NON DESTRUCTIVE TESTING ON COMPOSITE MATERIAL USING PARALLEL PLATE ELECTRICAL CAPACITANCE TOMOGRAPHY: A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
Authors: Abd Rashid Wan Norhisyam , Mohamad Elmy Johana , Abdul Rahim Ruzairi , Subki A Shamsul Rahimi , Ahood Abdul Latiff , Kadmin Ahmad Fauzan , Naim @ Mohayat Mohd Hariz , Ahmad Mazran , Mohd Tah Mohd Aliff
Published: July 2017

In this paper, a conceptual framework for a non destructive testing to check defect on composite material using parallel plate electrical capacitance tomography is being proposed. At the early stage, the possibility of using this method is being simulated using Comsol Multiphysic software. The simulation process has shown promising results to make this concept works. When a dielectric material is placed between the parallel plates, the permittivity distribution can be observed. As the number of electrodes of the sensor are increased from 2 to 8 electrodes, the capacitance value increase from 2.0131e-11-2.3532e-14i F to 5.2474e-11-3.0756e-13i F. Furthermore, there are significant results when the size and the permittivity of the object are varies.Â
EFFECT OF THIXOFORMING ON THE WEAR PROPERTIES OF AL-SI-CU ALUMINUM ALLOY
Authors: Alhawari Khaled Salem , Omar Mohd Zaidi , Ghazali Mariyam Jameelah , Salleh Mohd Shukor , Abdulrazaq Mohammed Naser
Published: July 2017

In this study a hypoeutectic Al-6Si-3Cu aluminium alloy was synthesized using two different routes: the thixoforming process and the conventional mould casting process. The microstructural features, hardness and wear behavior of thixoformed alloy have been evaluated and compared with that of as-cast alloy. Cooling slope method was used to produce the non-dendritic microstructure feedstock for thixoforming. Thixoforming was carried out at 50% liquid fraction. The dry sliding wear behaviour of the produced alloys was investigated under two loads; namely, 10 and 50 N and 1m/s sliding speed for 9 km sliding distance. The thixoformed alloy exhibited globular primary phase morphology with fine and uniform distributed Si and intermetallic particles. On the contrary, dendritic primary phase, coarse flaky silicon particles and segregated microstructure has been observed in conventional cast alloy. Thixoformed alloy exhibited improvement in the wear resistance in comparison to the conventional cast alloy, which may be attributed to the microstructural enhancement resulting in improved hardness. The thixoformed samples displayed lower volume loss of ~16.20 mm3 and ~42.40 mm3 at loads of 10 and 50 N respectively compared with that of conventional cast samples. On the basis of observations and analyses on the wear rates and worn surfaces, the wear mechanism of the alloys was dominantly controlled by abrasive, adhesive and minor delamination.
Inclusion as Critique. Deconstructionist Approaches Exemplified through ‘Care’ of People with Cognitive Disabilities in Germany
Authors: Trescher Hendrik
Published: July 2017

The article builds on a reformulation of disability that construes disability as ‘discoursive disability’ (Trescher 2017d) and develops a conception of inclusion, which may be thought of as a deconstruction of barriers to participate in discourses and that aims at enabling access to discourses. I develop this perspective against the background of stationary housing in disability care. In this context, I refer to results of my study ‚Living space as pedagogic challenge. Institutional arrangement of residential home for people with disabilities’ (Trescher 2017c), which documents that external and internal, (in)formally assigned practices manifest as ‘disabling’ and ultimately lead to a bureaucratic overdetermination of subjects. Inclusion in this regard means to deconstruct disabling practices, such as bureaucratic overdetermination, and thus constitutes a process, which runs counter to disability. Inclusion is critical, because it deconstructs barriers to participate in discourses and therefore ultimately transforms society.
Political Parties and the Rule of Law, Kosovo’s Perspective
Authors: Balaj Luz , Muçaj Florent
Published: July 2017

The role of political parties in increasing the capacities for the rule of law and the internal development of political parties, are two issues among several ones discussed in this analysis. The reformation of political parties from nationwide movements in structured political parties was and remains a very little analyzed process. The developments in Kosovo and the solution of its final status have distracted the political parties from having the dedication towards many vital issues, such as rule of law, their internal reformation. In the end I have analyzed another issue which appears as an obstacle for substantial reforms of political parties, which is the lack of constitutional control for political parties’ programs and their way of functioning.The treatment of the organization of political life, focusing on the role of political parties and their dedication for law and order, is undoubtedly a substantial and analytical innovation, important for the political parties themselves. Having a look in general scientific analysis for political parties not only within Kosovo, we can understand that studies that treat certain segments of political parties, especially their platforms, are quite late.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Smith Robert
Published: July 2017

Journal of Education and Training Studies (JETS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether JETS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 5, Number 8António Calha, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, PortugalCarmen Pérez-Sabater, Universitat Poltècnica de València, SpainCélio Gonçalo Marques, Polytechnic Institute of Tomar, PortugalDeborah Christine Robinson, University of Derby, UKElena Jerves, University of Cuenca, EcuadorEnisa Mede, Bahcesehir University, TurkeyEsra DERELİ-Eskişehir Osmangazi University, TurkeyEsra DERELİ-Eskişehir Osmangazi University, TurkeyIntakhab Khan, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi ArabiaJohn Cowan, Edinburgh Napier University, UKLisa Marie Portugal, Grand Canyon University, USALorna T. Enerva, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, PhilippinesM. Emin Türkoğlu, Afyon Kocatepe University, TurkeyMarcie Zaharee, The MITRE Corporation, USAMeral Seker, Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University, TurkeyMustafa Çakır, Marmara Üniversity, TurkeyNerina Fernanda Sarthou, Univ. Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, ArgentinaNicole Celestine, The University of Western Australia, AustraliaNiveen M. Zayed, MENA College of Management, JordanPirkko Siklander, University of Lapland, FinlandRichard Penny, University of Washington Bothell, USARui Manuel Carreteiro, National Institute of Psychology and Neurosciences, PortugalSamad Mirza Suzani, Islamic Azad University, IranSenem Seda Şahenk Erkan , Marmara University, TurkeySerkan Ünsal, K.Maraş Sütçü İmam University, TurkeyStamatis Papadakis, University of Crete, GreeceSuzan Kavanoz, Yıldız Technical University, TurkeyWang Kin Chiu, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong KongYakup Koç, Erzincan University, TurkeyYalçın Dilekli, Aksaray University, Turkey Robert SmithEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Journal of Education and Training StudiesRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://jets.redfame.com
The Pila–Wilkie theorem for subanalytic families: a complex analytic approach
Authors: Binyamini Gal , Novikov Dmitry
Published: July 2017

We present a complex analytic proof of the Pila–Wilkie theorem for subanalytic sets. In particular, we replace the use of $C^{r}$-smooth parametrizations by a variant of Weierstrass division. As a consequence we are able to apply the Bombieri–Pila determinant method directly to analytic families without limiting the order of smoothness by a $C^{r}$ parametrization. This technique provides the key inductive step for our recent proof (in a closely related preprint) of the Wilkie conjecture for sets definable using restricted elementary functions. As an illustration of our approach we prove that the rational points of height $H$ in a compact piece of a complex-analytic set of dimension $k$ in $\mathbb{C}^{m}$ are contained in $O(1)$ complex-algebraic hypersurfaces of degree $(\log H)^{k/(m-k)}$. This is a complex-analytic analog of a recent result of Cluckers, Pila, and Wilkie for real subanalytic sets.
Reconceptualizing the vowel space in analyzing regional dialect variation and sound change in American English
Authors: Fox Robert Allen , Jacewicz Ewa
Published: July 2017

Vowel space area (VSA) calculated on the basis of corner vowels has emerged as a metric for the study of regional variation, speech intelligibility and speech development. This paper gives an evaluation of the basic assumptions underlying both the concept of the vowel space and the utility of the VSA in making cross-dialectal and sound change comparisons. Using cross-generational data from 135 female speakers representing three distinct dialects of American English, the first step was to establish that the vowel quadrilateral fails as a metric in the context of dialect variation. The next step was to examine the efficacy of more complete assessments of VSA represented by the convex hull and the concave hull. Despite the improvement over the quadrilateral, both metrics yielded inconsistent estimates of VSA. This paper then explores the possibility that regional variation can be characterized more effectively if formant dynamics and the resulting spectral overlap were also considered in defining the space. The proposed formant density approach showed that the working space may be common to all dialects but the differences are in the internal distribution of spectral density regions that define dialect-specific “usage” of the acoustic space. The dialect-inherent distribution of high and low density regions is largely shaped by sound change.
The devil is in the detail: Quantifying vocal variation in a complex, multi-levelled, and rapidly evolving display
Authors: Garland Ellen C. , Rendell Luke , Lilley Matthew S. , Poole M. Michael , Allen Jenny , Noad Michael J.
Published: July 2017

Identifying and quantifying variation in vocalizations is fundamental to advancing our understanding of processes such as speciation, sexual selection, and cultural evolution. The song of the humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) presents an extreme example of complexity and cultural evolution. It is a long, hierarchically structured vocal display that undergoes constant evolutionary change. Obtaining robust metrics to quantify song variation at multiple scales (from a sound through to population variation across the seascape) is a substantial challenge. Here, the authors present a method to quantify song similarity at multiple levels within the hierarchy. To incorporate the complexity of these multiple levels, the calculation of similarity is weighted by measurements of sound units (lower levels within the display) to bridge the gap in information between upper and lower levels. Results demonstrate that the inclusion of weighting provides a more realistic and robust representation of song similarity at multiple levels within the display. This method permits robust quantification of cultural patterns and processes that will also contribute to the conservation management of endangered humpback whale populations, and is applicable to any hierarchically structured signal sequence.
Protective effect of rimonabant, a canabinoid receptor 1 antagonist, on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in a rat model through modulation of the hepatic expression of activin A and follistatin
Authors: Hussien Noha I. , El-kerdasy Hanan I. , Ibrahim Mohammad El-tantawy
Published: July 2017

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of liver morbidity and mortality, and there is still no proven effective therapy. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in various liver diseases. Activin A is a member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily and inhibits hepatocyte growth. Follistatin antagonizes the biological actions of activin A. This study was designed to investigate the effect of rimonabant (a potent cannabinoid receptor1 (CB1) antagonist) on NAFLD induced with a choline-deficient (CD) diet in rats, as well as to detect whether it can alter the hepatic expression of activin A and follistatin. Forty rats were distributed among 4 groups: the control group, the rimonabant treatment group (normal rats that received rimonabant); the CD diet group (NAFLD induced with a CD diet); and the CD diet + rimonabant group (NAFLD treated with rimonabant). It was found that the CD diet caused significant increase in liver index, serum levels of liver enzymes, malondialdehyde (MDA), TGF-β1, activin A, and CB1 expression in liver tissue, with a significant decrease in glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and follistatin mRNA expression in liver tissues. The administration of rimonabant significantly improved all of the studied parameters compared with the group fed the CD diet alone. Histopathological examination supported these results. We concluded that rimonabant significantly counteracted NAFLD induced with the CD diet by decreasing oxidative stress and hepatic expression of TGF-β1, and modulating the hepatic expression of activin A and follistatin.
Fermionic and bosonic fields in the Einstein–Cartan theory
Authors: Ribas Marlos O. , Devecchi Fernando P. , Kremer Gilberto M.
Published: July 2017

A cosmological model with a fermionic field and a massive bosonic field within the framework of the Einstein–Cartan theory is developed. The spacetime curvature is due to the matter-energy of the gravitational sources, whereas the torsion of the spacetime manifold follows from the spin density. From the numerical simulations it is shown that the fermionic spin density and the bosonic constituent answer for the transition from a decelerated to an accelerated era. The massive bosonic field behaves as dark energy, as it promotes the final accelerated period. During the initial decelerated era both constituents contribute, and the transition occurs as the torsion effect decreases with time. The exchange of energy between the constituents occurs via the gravitational field.
Study on fractal characteristics in the e+e− collisions at s = 250GeV
Authors: Zeng Ting-Ting , Chen Gang , Dong Zi-Jian , She Zhi-Lei , Ragab N. A.
Published: July 2017

The fractal characteristics of multiparticle final state are first studied in the [Formula: see text] collision of [Formula: see text], with the MC simulation generator Jetset7.4 and Herwig5.9. The results show that this multiparticle final state has a double-Hurst-exponent fractals characteristics, which means that the resulting NFM obeys the scaling law well using both the two sets of Hurst exponents to partition the three-dimensional phase space isotropically and anisotropically. Their fractal indices and the effective fluctuation strength are also predicted.
An investigation on physical properties of SiOx nanowires deposited by chemical vapor deposition method: The effect of substrate to boat distance
Authors: Heidaryan Narges , Eshghi Hosein
Published: July 2017

Large-scale silicon oxide nanowires (SiO[Formula: see text] NWs) with a diameter about 250 nm on silicon wafers were synthesized by thermal evaporation of silicon monoxide (SiO) powder. In order to investigate the role of distance on the physical properties of SiO[Formula: see text] NWs, Si substrates were positioned at 5 cm and 10 cm apart from the boat position set at 1150[Formula: see text]C. The local temperatues of the samples were 1100[Formula: see text]C and 1050[Formula: see text]C, respectively. The SEM images and EDS spectra showed interweaved networks of SiO[Formula: see text] NWs with x = 0.62 and 0.65 in these layers. The XRD patterns showed S1 has a polycrystalline structure (cristobalite), while S2 has amorphous nature. The PL spectra showed an intense blue peak at 468 nm in S1, and a violet peak at 427 nm in S2 that could be related to the differences in the crystallite structures and oxygen vacancies in these samples.
Variational calculations for ground state properties of liquid 3He injected in a carbon nanotube
Authors: Bordbar G. H. , Rastkhadiv M. A.
Published: July 2017

Liquid 3He injected in a carbon nanotube is of high interests due to different behavior of the liquid helium in the quasi-one-dimensional systems. In this work, a variational approach has been performed to calculate some thermodynamic properties of this quantum system. In order to do so, a single-walled carbon nanotube containing liquid 3He is considered, applying the Lennard-Jones and Stan–Cole potentials for 3He–3He and 3He–C interactions, respectively. Finally the total energy, equation of state and incompressibility of the system have been calculated. Our calculations show the high values for the incompressibility at high densities, especially for high radii.
Neutrino-nucleus cross-sections at supernova neutrino energies
Authors: Chauhan S. , Athar M. Sajjad , Singh S. K.
Published: July 2017

The inclusive neutrino/antineutrino-induced charged and neutral current reaction cross-sections in [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in the energy region of supernova neutrinos/antineutrinos are studied. The calculations are performed in the local density approximation (LDA) taking into account the effects due to Pauli blocking, Fermi motion and the renormalization of weak transition strengths in the nuclear medium. The effect of Coulomb distortion of the lepton produced in the charged current reactions has also been included. The numerical results for the energy dependence of the cross-section [Formula: see text] as well as the flux averaged cross-section and event rates for the charged lepton production in the case of some supernova neutrino/antineutrino fluxes recently discussed in the literature have been presented. We have also given the flux-averaged angular and energy distributions of the charged leptons corresponding to these fluxes.