bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Error Compensation Technique for a Resistance-Type Differential Pressure Flow Sensor
Authors: Wang Guimei , Chu Tao , Yang Lijie , Sun Fang
Published: April 2018

A flow sensor is designed based on resistance-type differential pressure flow (RDPF) method, and the flow data is measured during a coal gangue paste-filling process. The measurement error characteristics of a RDPF sensor are analyzed. Periodic and aperiodic errors are then modeled separately. The model for the periodic error is established by Fourier series approximation using least squares solution of an overdetermined equation to solve for the model parameters. The model for the aperiodic error is established using an online least squares support vector machine (LS-SVM) method. The cross-validation is used to solve model parameters. Simulations and experiments show that the dynamic measurement accuracy of the sensor is greatly improved by error compensation, thereby reducing filling material waste and improving the economic efficiency.
Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation Method of Masonry Structure Safety Based on Grey Clustering Theory
Authors: Lin Yongjun , Lin Chitan , Qiu Xiujiao
Published: April 2018

A comprehensive method for quantitatively appraising the safety rating of masonry structure is proposed which is able to reflect the difference in the same safety level. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP), fuzzy theory, and the grey clustering theory were applied based on the fuzzy-grey characteristics and the structural safety factors of the building system. A four-layer safety evaluation model of masonry structure considering its structural features was established by using AHP method and a three-level fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model was elaborated. Then, the weight coefficient vector of each layer was calculated according to the expert experience and existing research results. Based on the grey clustering method and the fuzzy evaluation model, the evaluation matrix of every layer was established. Finally, this method was applied to a practical masonry structure. Not only the result was in agreement with the appraisal result according to Chinese standard method, but also it quantitatively evaluates the safety grade of every factor in every layer.
Pheochromocytoma, “the Great Masquerader,” Presenting as Severe Acute Decompensated Heart Failure in a Young Patient
Authors: Reyes Hans A. , Paquin Jason J. , Harris David M.
Published: April 2018

A 22-year-old man presented to the hospital with progressive shortness of breath, chest discomfort, sinus tachycardia, and emesis. The echocardiogram demonstrated global hypokinesis with a left ventricle ejection fraction of 15–20%. The patient was treated for acute systolic heart failure decompensation with diuresis and afterload reduction. Unexpectedly, an abdominal computed tomography showed a left adrenal mass and subsequent serum/urine metanephrine tests suggested pheochromocytoma. Once the patient had stabilized, he underwent an uneventful adrenalectomy with histology results confirming the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. After six months follow-up, he is currently doing well with close outpatient follow-up by cardiology.
Predictors of Neonatal Deaths in Ashanti Region of Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Annan Gertrude Nancy , Asiedu Yvonne
Published: April 2018

Background. Neonatal mortality continues to be a public health problem, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This study was conducted to assess the maternal, neonatal, and health system related factors that influence neonatal deaths in the Ashanti Region, Ghana. Methods. 222 mothers and their babies who were within the first 28 days of life on admission at Mother and Baby unit (MBU) at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi, Ashanti Region of Ghana, were recruited through systematic random sampling. Data was collected by face to face interviewing using open and closed ended questions. A logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the influence of proximal and facility related factors on the odds of neonatal death. Results. Out of the 222 mothers, there were 115 (51.8%) whose babies did not survive. Majority, 53.9%, of babies died within 1–4 days, 31.3% within 5–14 days, and 14.8% within 15–28 days. The cause of death included asphyxia, low birth weight, congenital anomalies, infections, and respiratory distress syndrome. Neonatal deaths were influenced by proximal factors (parity, duration of pregnancy, and disease of the mother such as HIV/AIDS), neonatal factors (birth weight, gestational period, sex of baby, and Apgar score), and health related factors (health staff attitude, supervision of delivery, and hours spent at labour ward). Conclusion. This study shows a high level of neonatal deaths in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. This finding suggests the need for health education programmes to improve on awareness of the dangers that can militate against neonatal survival as well as strengthening the health system to support mothers and their babies through pregnancy and delivery and postpartum to help improve child survival.
Dynamics of Archaeal and Bacterial Communities in Response to Variations of Hydraulic Retention Time in an Integrated Anaerobic Fluidized-Bed Membrane Bioreactor Treating Benzothiazole Wastewater
Authors: Li Yue , Hu Qi , Gao Da-Wen
Published: April 2018

An integrated anaerobic fluidized-bed membrane bioreactor (IAFMBR) was investigated to treat synthetic high-strength benzothiazole wastewater (50 mg/L) at a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 24, 18, and 12 h. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency (from 93.6% to 90.9%), the methane percentage (from 70.9% to 69.27%), and the methane yield (from 0.309 m3 CH4/kg·CODremoved to 0.316 m3 CH4/kg·CODremoved) were not affected by decreasing HRTs. However, it had an adverse effect on membrane fouling (decreasing service period from 5.3 d to 3.2 d) and benzothiazole removal efficiency (reducing it from 97.5% to 82.3%). Three sludge samples that were collected on day 185, day 240, and day 297 were analyzed using an Illumina® MiSeq platform. It is striking that the dominant genus of archaea was always Methanosaeta despite of HRTs. The proportions of Methanosaeta were 80.6% (HRT 24), 91.9% (HRT 18), and 91.2% (HRT 12). The dominant bacterial genera were Clostridium in proportions of 23.9% (HRT 24), 16.4% (HRT 18), and 15.3% (HRT 12), respectively.
Enhancing Cellular Coverage Quality by Virtual Access Point and Wireless Power Transfer
Authors: Gui Jinsong , Hui Lihuan , Xiong Naixue
Published: April 2018

The ultradensification deploying for cellular networks is a direct and effective method for the improvement of network capacity. However, the benefit is achieved at the cost of network infrastructure investment and operating overheads, especially when there is big gap between peak‐hour Internet traffic and average one. Therefore, we put forward the concept of virtual cellular coverage area, where wireless terminals with high‐end configuration are motivated to enhance cellular coverage quality by both providing RF energy compensation and rewarding free traffic access to Internet. This problem is formulated as the Stackelberg game based on three‐party circular decision, where a Macro BS (MBS) acts as the leader to offer a charging power to Energy Transferring Relays (ETRs), and the ETRs and their associating Virtual Access Points (VAPs) act as the followers to make their decisions, respectively. According to the feedback from the followers, the leader may readjust its strategy. The circular decision is repeated until the powers converge. Also, the better response algorithm for each game player is proposed to iteratively achieve the Stackelberg‐Nash Equilibrium (SNE). Theoretical analysis proves the convergence of the proposed game scheme, and simulation results demonstrate its effectiveness.
The Impact of Container Virtualization on Network Performance of IoT Devices
Authors: Lee Kyungwoon , Kim Youngpil , Yoo Chuck
Published: May 2018

Container-based virtualization offers advantages such as high performance, resource efficiency, and agile environment. These advantages make Internet of Things (IoT) device management easy. Although container-based virtualization has already been introduced to IoT devices, the different network modes of containers and their performance issues have not been addressed. Since the network performance is an important factor in IoT, the analysis of the container network performance is essential. In this study, we analyze the network performance of containers on an IoT device, Raspberry Pi 3. The results show that the network performance of containers is lower than that of the native Linux, with an average performance difference of 6% and 18% for TCP and UDP, respectively. In addition, the network performance of containers varies depending on the network mode. When a single container runs, bridge mode achieves higher performance than host mode by 25% while host mode shows better performance than bridge mode by 45% in the multicontainer environment.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice regarding HIV/AIDS among People with Disability in Hawassa City, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonnen Mekdes , Behailu Tsigereda , Wakgari Negash
Published: May 2018

Background. People with disabilities are vulnerable group to be infected with HIV/AIDS and are challenged to utilize HIV/AIDS services. Hence, this study assessed knowledge, attitude, and practice about HIV/AIDS among disabled people in Hawassa city. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 disabled people. All disabled people residing in Hawassa city during the study period were included. Pretested and structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify the associated factors. Results. A high percentage (197 (79.8%)) of disabled people were knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS. Similarly, 190 (76%) of the respondents had a favorable attitude towards HIV/AIDS. In addition, being married (AOR = 2.20; 95% CI: 1.14, 4.27) and being employed (AOR = 2.85; 95% CI: 1.19, 6.81) were positively associated with knowledge about HIV/AIDS. Moreover, being a male (AOR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.61, 2.90) and being married (AOR = 2.13; 95% CI: 2.25, 3.26) were also positively associated with having a favorable attitude towards HIV/AIDS. Conclusions. Significant numbers of disabled people were knowledgeable and had a favorable attitude towards HIV/AIDS.
Lower In-Hospital Mortality with Plasma Exchange than Plasmapheresis in a Subgroup Analysis of 374 Lupus Patients
Authors: Su Yu-Jih , Chiu Wen-Chan , Hsu Chung-Yuan , Chen Jin-Bor , Ng Hwee-Yeong
Published: May 2018

Background. Apheresis treatment includes plasmapheresis (PP) and plasma exchange (PE), and these terms are commonly used interchangeably. Nevertheless, the two procedures are carried out differently. The aims of this study were to investigate the mortality rate of patients who underwent therapeutic apheresis and compare the mortality rate between PP and PE. Methods. We conducted a medical chart review retrospective study. All identified subjects (n=436) were over 20 years old with at least one ICD-9-CM intervention code plasmapheresis or plasma exchange and at least one diagnosis code with rheumatic disease. All of them were hospitalized to Chang Gung Memorial Hospital between 1st of January, 2000, and 31st of December, 2014. Results. 436 nonoverlapping patients had never received PE and/or PP before 1 Jan, 2000. Among all the patients, 350 received PE, 63 received PP, and 23 received both therapies. Female patients accounted for 85.09% of patients. The overall mortality rate was 4.65% in the PE subgroup, 4.76% with combination therapy, and 13.46% in the PP subgroup. There were 374 patients diagnosed as SLE, which is the majority of overall patients who received PE and/or PE. In multivariate analysis, PE was the sole independent factor predictor of survival in SLE subgroup patients (p=0.02, exp(B)=0.314, 95% CI 0.12–0.81). Conclusions. We showed that both PP and PE were used in treating a variety of autoimmune disorders. Plasmapheresis was preferentially carried out in patients with peripheral neuropathy. In 374 lupus patients treated with either PE or PP, PE is superior to PP in reducing in-hospital mortality.
Intradural Disk Herniation Mimicking a Spinal Tumor: Radiologic Imaging, Pathogenesis, and Operative Management
Authors: Tateiwa Daisuke , Yamasaki Ryoji , Tei Rinsei , Shin Yasushi , Ariga Kenta , Hayashida Kenji , Wada Eiji
Published: April 2018

Intradural disk herniation (IDH) is a rare condition, occurring more often at the L4-5 level. We examined a case of an IDH at the L1-2 level mimicking an intradural spinal tumor. A 71-year-old woman with a long history of backache and pain radiating down the left leg was admitted to our hospital with the worsening of these symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomographic myelography demonstrated an intradural mass at the L1-2 level. Given the radiologic findings and the location of the mass, the preoperative differential diagnosis centered on intradural spinal tumors. Dural incision was performed using a surgical microscope to resect the mass. Contrary to our expectation, the diagnosis made during the surgery was IDH. Despite advances in imaging techniques, IDH could not be definitively diagnosed preoperatively. The pathogenesis of IDH remains unclear. In our patient, the ventral dural defect was smooth and round, and the dural tissue around the defect was thickened. These intraoperative findings suggested that the patient’s IDH resulted not from an acute new event but from a chronic process. We recommend dural incision using a surgical microscope for treating IDH because it provides a clear visual field.
Computational Methods for Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Paquet Eric , Viktor Herna L.
Published: April 2018

Ab initio molecular dynamics is an irreplaceable technique for the realistic simulation of complex molecular systems and processes from first principles. This paper proposes a comprehensive and self-contained review of ab initio molecular dynamics from a computational perspective and from first principles. Quantum mechanics is presented from a molecular dynamics perspective. Various approximations and formulations are proposed, including the Ehrenfest, Born–Oppenheimer, and Hartree–Fock molecular dynamics. Subsequently, the Kohn–Sham formulation of molecular dynamics is introduced as well as the afferent concept of density functional. As a result, Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics is discussed, together with its extension to isothermal and isobaric processes. Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics is then reformulated in terms of path integrals. Finally, some implementation issues are analysed, namely, the pseudopotential, the orbital functional basis, and hybrid molecular dynamics.
Whole Exome and Transcriptome Analyses Integrated with Microenvironmental Immune Signatures of Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Seo Jeong-Sun , Lee Ji Won , Kim Ahreum , Shin Jong-Yeon , Jung Yoo Jin , Lee Sae Bom , Kim Yoon Ho , Park Samina , Lee Hyun Joo , Park In-Kyu , Kang Chang-Hyun , Yun Ji-Young , Kim Jihye , Kim Young Tae
Published: May 2018

The immune microenvironment in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is not well understood, with interactions between the host immune system and the tumor, as well as the molecular pathogenesis of LUSC, awaiting better characterization. To date, no molecularly targeted agents have been developed for LUSC treatment. Identification of predictive and prognostic biomarkers for LUSC could help optimize therapy decisions. We sequenced whole exomes and RNA from 101 tumors and matched noncancer control Korean samples. We used the information to predict subtype-specific interactions within the LUSC microenvironment and to connect genomic alterations with immune signatures. Hierarchical clustering based on gene expression and mutational profiling revealed subtypes that were either immune defective or immune competent. We analyzed infiltrating stromal and immune cells to further characterize the tumor microenvironment. Elevated expression of macrophage 2 signature genes in the immune competent subtype confirmed that tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) linked inflammation and mutation-driven cancer. A negative correlation was evident between the immune score and the amount of somatic copy-number variation (SCNV) of immune genes (r = −0.58). The SCNVs showed a potential detrimental effect on immunity in the immune-deficient subtype. Knowledge of the genomic alterations in the tumor microenvironment could be used to guide design of immunotherapy options that are appropriate for patients with certain cancer subtypes. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(7); 848–59. ©2018 AACR.
Serial Assessment of Growth Factors Associated with Liver Regeneration in Patients Operated with Associating Liver Partition and Portal Vein Ligation for Staged Hepatectomy
Authors: Sparrelid Ernesto , Johansson Helene , Gilg Stefan , Nowak Greg , Ellis Ewa , Isaksson Bengt
Published: May 2018

Background: There is limited knowledge about the mechanisms behind the unparalleled growth of the future liver remnant (FLR) linked to associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS). In this study, liver regenerative markers were examined in patients subjected to ALPPS. Methods: Ten patients with colorectal liver metastases treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and ALPPS were included. Plasma was sampled at 6 time points and biopsies from both liver lobes were collected at both stages of ALPPS. The levels of interleukin (IL)-6, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), tumor necrosis factor-α, epidermal growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor in plasma were measured at each time point. Expression of mRNA for markers of proliferation and apoptosis was studied in the biopsies from both liver lobes taken at both stages. Results: ALPPS resulted in a peak of IL-6 after stage 1 (p = 0.004), which decreased rapidly and did not increase again after stage 2. HGF also increased after stage 1 (p = 0.048), and the HGF levels correlated significantly with the degree of growth of the FLR before stage 2 (p = 0.02, r2 = 0.47). There was a correlation between peak levels of IL-6 and HGF (p = 0.03, r2 = 0.84). Conclusions: IL-6 and HGF seem to be early mediators of hypertrophy after stage 1 in the ALPPS procedure. The peak HGF plasma level correlates with the degree of FLR growth in patients subjected to ALPPS.
Myeloproliferative Neoplasms in Danish Twins
Authors: Andersen Michael Asger  , Bjerrum Ole Weis , Ranjan Ajenthen , Skov Vibe , Kruse Torben A. , Thomassen Mads , Skytthe Axel , Hasselbalch Hans Carl , Christensen Kaare
Published: May 2018

Objective: Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by clonal hyperproliferation of immature and mature cells of the myeloid lineage. Genetic differences have been proposed to play a role in the development of MPNs. Monozygotic twin pairs with MPNs have been reported in a few case reports, but the MPN concordance pattern in twins remains unknown. Method: All twin pairs born in the period 1900–2010 were identified in the nationwide Danish Twin Registry. Only pairs with both twins alive on January 1, 1977, and those born thereafter were included to allow identification in the Danish National Patient Registry. Results: A total of 158 twin pairs were registered with an MPN diagnosis: 36 monozygotic, 104 dizygotic, and 18 pairs with unknown zygosity. MPNs were diagnosed in both twins in 4 pairs. The probandwise concordance rates for monozygotic twin pairs were higher than for dizygotic twin pairs (15 vs. 0%; p = 0.016). Conclusion: An estimated concordance rate of 15% (95% CI 0.059–0.31) is modest, but given the rarity of MPNs this finding is clinically relevant and provides further support for the role of genetic predisposition in the development of MPNs.
Downregulation of RIF1 Enhances Sensitivity to Platinum-Based Chemotherapy in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC) by Regulating Nucleotide Excision Repair (NER) Pathway
Authors: Liu Yong-Bin , Mei Ying , Tian Zheng-Wen , Long Jing , Luo Chen-Hui , Zhou Hong-Hao
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Rap1 interacting factor 1 (RIF1) was deemed to be involved in replication timing regulation and DNA damage response. However, little is known about the role of RIF1 in malignancies. Thus, this study aimed to investigate whether the expression of RIF1 is relevant to the response of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients to cisplatin chemotherapy and its underlying mechanism. Methods: Immunohistochemistry was used for detecting the expression of RIF1 in 72 human ovarian cancer tissues followed by association analysis of RIF1 expression with patients’ responses to platinum-based chemotherapy. The survival analysis of ovarian patients based on platinum chemotherapy was analyzed using online databases. RNA interference of RIF1 was carried out in OVCAR3 and A2780 cell lines, to determine the effect of lacking RIF1 expression on cellular responses to cisplatin by using MTS assay. The nucleotide excision repair (NER) capacity of these cells was assessed by using host-cell reactivation and UV sensitivity assay. Western Blot analysis was carried out to determine the effect of RIF1 on the proteins of NER and apoptosis signaling pathway by using RIF1 knockdown cells. BALB/c nude mice model was used for detection of response to cisplatin in vivo. Results: RIF1 expression was significantly associated with the response of ovarian patients to platinum-based chemotherapy (P< 0.01). In cohorts from online databases, high expression of RIF1 was associated with higher mortality of EOC patients based on platinum chemotherapy (P < 0.01). RIF1 knockdown increased sensitivity to cisplatin in EOC in vitro and in vivo. Deletion of RIF1 impaired the NER activity by inhibiting the NER proteins in ovarian cancer cells. Besides, knockdown of RIF1 enhanced cisplatin-induced apoptosis. Conclusions: RIF1 plays an important role in regulating the expression of NER proteins, which in turn contributes to cellular response to cisplatin and EOC patients’ response to platinum-based chemotherapy. RIF1 knockdown also promotes cisplatin-induced apoptosis. RIF1 may serve as a novel biomarker for predicting platinum-based chemosensitivity and the prognosis of EOC patients.
A literatura lésbica - Dossiê Sáfico
Authors: Gama Mônica , DeLucca Naná
Published: May 2018

Editorial do n. 20 - A literatura lésbica - Dossiê Sáfico
A emergência lésbica em Clarice Lispector
Authors: Santos Claudiana Gois dos
Published: May 2018

A via crucis do corpo, livro publicado em 1974, foi o décimo terceiro livro publicado de Clarice Lispector e seu sétimo de contos. Desta obra, inusitadamente apresentada pela autora como encomendada, emergem pela primeira vez na obra de Lispector personagens (umas mais, outras menos) declaradamente homossexuais. O livro, concebido como erótico, traz amálgamas intertextuais que constroem personagens bastante diversas das habituais da obra clariceana, ainda que com a complexidade habitual. No presente artigo será explorada a emergência deste corpo lésbico na obra da autora, repleta de personagens femininas, bem como a representação destas mulheres na literatura em um contexto repressor de heteronormatividade e misoginia, com o apoio da crítica feminista e de autoras como Monique Wittig e Adrienne Rich. Clarice Lispector, aqui, aparece não apenas como a escritora canônica cultuada, mas como artista que exercita sua linguagem buscando trazer à tona estas personagens tão invisibilizadas (não apenas) na literatura, como forma de deslocamento de um cânone opressor.
Time to Decision and Treatment With tPA (Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator) Using Telemedicine Versus an Onboard Neurologist on a Mobile Stroke Unit
Authors: Bowry Ritvij , Parker Stephanie A. , Yamal Jose-Miguel , Hwang Hyunsoo , Appana Savitri , Rangel-Gutierrez Nicole , Wu Tzu-Ching , Rajan Suja S. , Grotta James C.
Published: May 2018

Background and Purpose—

Mobile stroke units (MSUs) can speed treatment with intravenous tPA (tissue-type plasminogen activator). We previously showed substantial agreement between a telemedicine-based vascular neurologist (TM-VN) and an onboard vascular neurologist (OB-VN) for the evaluation of patients with stroke for tPA eligibility on an MSU. However, the time efficiency of the telemedicine-based evaluation remained uncertain. In this study, we examined the speed of decision and treatment from MSU arrival for the TM-VN compared with an OB-VN.

Methods—

In 50 consecutive situations, the TM-VN served as the primary decision maker. Times from MSU arrival to tPA decision and tPA bolus were compared with the same metrics for when the OB-VN served as the primary decision maker.

Results—

Time to tPA decision for the TM-VN was 21 minutes (interquartile range, 16.25–26) versus 18 minutes (interquartile range, 14–22) for the OB-VN (
P
=0.01). Initiation of tPA bolus was 24 minutes (interquartile range, 19.75–30) for the TM-VN versus 24 minutes (interquartile range, 19–27.75) for the OB-VN (
P
=0.5).

Conclusions—

Assessment by a TM-VN is comparable with an OB-VN in making decisions about tPA administration on an MSU and does not lead to treatment delays.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02190500.
Phylloporia minuta sp. nov. (Basidiomycota, Hymenochaetales): a remarkable species discovered in a small protected urban area of Atlantic Forest
Authors: BITTENCOURT FELIPE , STÜRMER SIDNEY LUIZ , RECK MATEUS ARDUVINO , DRECHSLER-SANTOS ELISANDRO RICARDO
Published: May 2018

During fungal surveys in a small urban Protected Area in Southern Brazil a species of Phylloporia was found with its minute basidiomata emerging from living stems of Doliocarpus schottianus. It is characterized by pileate and strikingly small basidiomata, context with a black line separating an upper tomentum, 3–7(–8) pores per mm, a monomitic hyphal system and ellipsoid basidiospores. In phylogenetic analysis based on partial nuclear 28S ribosomal DNA sequences, these specimens are resolved as a new clade within Phylloporia. The species is therefore described as P. minuta sp. nov. Ecological data (host and distribution) and the importance of small and urban protected areas are discussed
Secondary Eyewall Formation and Concentric Eyewall Replacement in Association with Increased Low-Level Inner-Core Diabatic Cooling
Authors: Chen Guanghua
Published: May 2018

The role of increased diabatic cooling in secondary eyewall formation (SEF) and eyewall replacement cycle (ERC) is examined using idealized numerical simulation. The experiment with the low-level inner-core diabatic cooling increased by 30% features the low-entropy air and downward motion in the inner-core region whereas the convergence and active convective updrafts are in the outer-core region. In collaboration with the favorable ambient dynamical conditions and boundary layer dynamical processes, the concentric convective ring is initiated with the aid of the outward expansion of strong wind field, and then contracts inward to replace the inner eyewall. Subsequently, the deep-tropospheric radial outflows driven by the large outward-directed agradient force related to the massive strong tangential wind generate a largely outward-tilted eyewall, eventually forming a large-eyed storm. The sensitivity to the strength and radial location of diabatic cooling shows that neither the 20% increase nor 10-km radially inward shift of the low-level cooling produces a pronounced SEF and ERC because of the lack of an evident moat region. In contrast, both the 40% increase and 10-km radially outward shift of cooling lead to the active outer rainbands occurring at a larger radius. In the former case, because of the deep-layer radial outflow above the boundary layer, the largely outward-tilted concentric eyewall shrinks slowly, directly creating a large-eyed structure. In the latter case, the formation of concentric eyewall is delayed because of the low inertial stability at a large radius, but experiences an expeditious ontraction because of the strong radial inflow.
On the Choice of Ensemble Mean for Estimating the Forced Signal in the Presence of Internal Variability
Authors: Frankcombe Leela M. , England Matthew H. , Kajtar Jules B. , Mann Michael E. , Steinman Byron A.
Published: May 2018

In this paper we examine various options for the calculation of the forced signal in climate model simulations, and the impact these choices have on the estimates of internal variability. We find that an ensemble mean of runs from a single climate model [a single model ensemble mean (SMEM)] provides a good estimate of the true forced signal even for models with very few ensemble members. In cases where only a single member is available for a given model, however, the SMEM from other models is in general out-performed by the scaled ensemble mean from all available climate model simulations [the multimodel ensemble mean (MMEM)]. The scaled MMEM may therefore be used as an estimate of the forced signal for observations. The MMEM method, however, leads to increasing errors further into the future, as the different rates of warming in the models causes their trajectories to diverge. We therefore apply the SMEM method to those models with a sufficient number of ensemble members to estimate the change in the amplitude of internal variability under a future forcing scenario. In line with previous results, we find that on average the surface air temperature variability decreases at higher latitudes, particularly over the ocean along the sea ice margins, while variability in precipitation increases on average, particularly at high latitudes. Variability in sea level pressure decreases on average in the Southern Hemisphere, while in the Northern Hemisphere there are regional differences.
How professionalization and organizational diversity shape contemporary careers: Developing a typology and process model
Authors: Jeong Young-Chul , Leblebici Huseyin
Published: April 2018

‘How are contemporary careers constructed?’ The aim of the article is to answer this question by developing a conceptual model of how professional and organizational environments shape careers in today’s knowledge-based economy. Focusing on the interplay of two macro-level forces, professionalization and the diversity of organizations, we develop a typology of four distinct career models and incorporate them into a dynamic evolutionary process of careers. The implications for developing a more integrated and dynamic approach on contemporary careers are discussed.
Temporality and gendered agency: Menopausal subjectivities in women’s work
Authors: Jack Gavin , Riach Kathleen , Bariola Emily
Published: April 2018

This article advances feminist organizational theorizing about embodiment and subjectivity by investigating menopause at work as a temporally constituted phenomenon. We ask how time matters in women’s embodied and subjective experiences of menopause at work. Theoretically, we draw on feminist writers McNay and Grosz to explore the relationship between gendered agency and time in a corpus of 48 qualitative interviews conducted with women employed at two Australian universities about their experiences of menopause. Our empirical analysis identifies three temporal modalities – episodic, helical and relational – that show how gendered organizational subjectivities are not simply temporally situated, but created in and through distinct temporal forces. We offer two contributions to feminist organizational theory: first, by illuminating the ontological role played by time in gendered agency; and second, by fleshing out the notion of a ‘body politics of surprise’ with implications for feminist studies of organizational embodiment, politics and ethics.
Influence of citric acid on the physical and biomineralization ability of freeze/thaw poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel
Authors: Wahid Mohamad Nizam Abdul , Abd Razak Saiful Izwan , Abdul Kadir Mohammed Rafiq , Hassan Rozita , Nayan Nadirul Hasraf Mat , Mat Amin Khairul Anuar
Published: May 2018

This work reports the modification of freeze/thaw poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel using citric acid as the bioactive molecule for hydroxyapatite formation in simulated body fluid. Inclusion of 1.3 mM citric acid into the poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel showed that the mechanical strength, crystalline phase, functional groups and swelling ability were still intact. Adding citric acid at higher concentrations (1.8 and 2.3 mM), however, resulted in physically poor hydrogels. Presence of 1.3 mM of citric acid showed the growth of porous hydroxyapatite crystals on the poly(vinyl alcohol) surface just after one day of immersion in simulated body fluid. Meanwhile, a fully covered apatite layer on the poly(vinyl alcohol) surface plus the evidence of apatite forming within the hydrogel were observed after soaking for seven days. Gel strength of the soaked poly(vinyl alcohol)/citric acid-1.3 mM hydrogel revealed that the load resistance was enhanced compared to that of the neat poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel. This facile method of inducing rapid growth of hydroxyapatite on the hydrogel surface as well as within the hydrogel network can be useful for guided bone regenerative materials.
“The Computer Said So”: On the Ethics, Effectiveness, and Cultural Techniques of Predictive Policing
Authors: Karppi Tero
Published: May 2018

In this paper, I use The New York Times’ debate titled, “Can predictive policing be ethical and effective?” to examine what are seen as the key operations of predictive policing and what impacts they might have in our current culture and society. The debate is substantially focused on the ethics and effectiveness of the computational aspects of predictive policing including the use of data and algorithms to predict individual behaviour or to identify hot spots where crimes might happen. The debate illustrates both the benefits and the problems of using these techniques, and makes a strong stance in favor of human control and governance over predictive policing. Cultural techniques in the paper is used as a framework to discuss human agency and further elaborate how predictive policing is based on operations which have ethical, epistemological, and social consequences.
What is the best lateral radiograph positioning technique for assessment of sagittal balance: A biomechanical study on influence of different arm positions
Authors: Sieh Koon-Man , Chan Yue-Yan , Ho Po-Yan , Fung Kwai-Yau
Published: May 2018

Purpose:

To evaluate the influence of different arm postures from the physiological standing position using force plate analysis of the gravity line.

Methods:

Forty healthy volunteered university students were enrolled. Each subject assumed different standing positions including standing with arms resting on the side (control), with fist over the clavicle (clavicular position), with active shoulder flexion in 30°, 60° and 90° with elbows extended (active flexion A), with hand rest on a bar with a static support (passive flexion P), and with hand rest on a bar with a drip stand (passive flexion D). The offset of the gravity line from the heel was measured by force plate analysis. The offset of the gravity line in different arm positions was compared with the control using paired t-test.

Results:

The mean anterior offset of the gravity line in control position is 39.80% of the foot length. All testing positions showed anterior shift of the gravity line compared with the control position from 0.51% to 7.50%. There were statistically significant changes of the gravity line from the control position in all ( p < 0.05), except in the clavicular position ( p = 0.249).

Conclusion:

All testing positions cause anterior shifting of the center of gravity from the physiological standing position. Clavicular position is the best comparable posture to the physiological standing position in taking a lateral radiograph. We recommend using the clavicular position as the standard testing position in the assessment of the sagittal profile.
General practitioner referral of older patients to Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT): an exploratory qualitative study
Authors: Collins Noel , Corna Laurie
Published: April 2018

Aims and method

To understand general practitioner (GP) reticence to refer older patients to a local Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) service providing mostly cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT)-based interventions. Semi-structured, hour-long interviews were conducted with eight GPs and then analysed by modified grounded theory and thematic analysis.

Results

GP views regarding the treatability of older adults with CBT influenced their willingness to refer to a CBT-based IAPT service. Perceptions of local IAPT assessment processes being distressing and onerous to older patients also motivated referral inaction. GPs expressed a preference to treat depressed older patients themselves (with medication and psychological approaches such as watchful waiting).

Clinical implications

Any strategy to increase referral rates of older adults to CBT-based IAPT services should address local GP concerns regarding assessment processes and the effectiveness of offered treatments.

Declaration of interest

None.
Mental capacity in Colombia: a comparison with the UK
Authors: Borda Juan P. , Tamayo Ricardo , Owen Gareth
Published: April 2018

Several international proclamations in the last decades have advocated for the dignity and autonomy of persons with mental disorders. Few discussions have been generated regarding the implication of this transition in low- and middle-income countries. The objective of this publication is to review how the concept of mental capacity has been defined in Colombian law. We then briefly compare the Colombian and UK situations and propose a few points of discussion, addressing some difficulties and challenges of both countries. Finally, we propose that the first steps in the Colombian context would be to strengthen understanding about mental capacity in medical schools, postgraduate and other health related programmes, the adoption of standardized tools to improve its assessment in everyday clinical settings and the establishment of community care services from collaborative efforts between governmental and civil organizations.
Substance use problem in Sudan: elephant in the room
Authors: El Mahi Mohamed
Published: April 2018

Alcohol and cannabis were the two main substances of misuse among certain groups in Sudan, especially young adults. Over the past decade, there has been a surge in the use of other substances, including prescribed drugs, among young people and university students in particular. There are two major shortcomings: first, in the absence of reliable data, the extent of the problem is unknown; second, the preventive and treatment interventions so far being adopted are meagre. To describe the possible causes behind the escalation of this problem and to discuss applicable measures that need to be implemented to control this rapidly growing problem. The paper will highlight the current situation of substance use in Sudan, as well as suggesting preventive measures that need to be taken to curb this problem. Research and evidence-based preventive approaches are desperately needed to aid policy makers in controlling this problem. Culture-specific treatment interventions are also necessary. The implementation of a national substance misuse control strategy is of paramount importance.
The lessons I learned as a psychiatrist from my transcultural work in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Leff Julian
Published: April 2018

Transcultural observations offer an opportunity to study attitude to mental illness in different societies and family structures. The disparity between industrialised and lower-income societies reflects greater tolerance due to the ability of extended families to compensate for the patient's limitations.
Baclofen in the treatment of alcohol dependence with or without liver disease: multisite, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Morley Kirsten C. , Baillie Andrew , Fraser Isabel , Furneaux-Bate Ainsley , Dore Glenys , Roberts Michael , Abdalla Ahmed , Phung Nghi , Haber Paul S.
Published: May 2018

Background

There are no available medications for the management of alcohol dependence for patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD).

Aims

To conduct a multisite, double blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical trial of baclofen in the treatment of alcohol dependence, with or without liver disease (trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01711125).

Method

Patients (n= 104) were randomised to placebo, baclofen 30 mg/day or 75 mg/day for 12 weeks. Primary outcomes included survival time to lapse (any drinking), relapse (≥5 drinks per day in men and ≥4 in women), and the composite outcome of drinks per drinking day, number of heavy drinking days, and percentage days abstinent.

Results

There was a significant effect of baclofen (composite groups) on time to lapse (χ2= 6.44,P<0.05, Cohen'sd= 0.56) and relapse (χ2= 4.62,P<0.05,d= 0.52). A significant treatment effect of baclofen was observed for percentage days abstinent (placebo 43%, baclofen 30 mg 69%, baclofen 75 mg 65%;P<0.05). There was one serious adverse event (overdose) directly related to medication (75 mg).

Conclusions

Baclofen may be an effective treatment option for patients with ALD. However, given the profile of adverse events, the role for this medication might be best limited to specialist services.

Declaration of interest

None.
Cumulative Risk Distribution for Interval Invasive Second Breast Cancers After Negative Surveillance Mammography
Authors: Lee Janie M. , Abraham Linn , Lam Diana L. , Buist Diana S.M. , Kerlikowske Karla , Miglioretti Diana L. , Houssami Nehmat , Lehman Constance D. , Henderson Louise M. , Hubbard Rebecca A.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The aim of the current study was to characterize the risk of interval invasive second breast cancers within 5 years of primary breast cancer treatment.

Methods

We examined 65,084 surveillance mammograms from 18,366 women with a primary breast cancer diagnosis of unilateral ductal carcinoma in situ or stage I to III invasive breast carcinoma performed from 1996 to 2012 in the Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium. Interval invasive breast cancer was defined as ipsilateral or contralateral cancer diagnosed within 1 year after a negative surveillance mammogram. Discrete-time survival models—adjusted for all covariates—were used to estimate the probability of interval invasive cancer, given the risk factors for each surveillance round, and aggregated across rounds to estimate the 5-year cumulative probability of interval invasive cancer.

Results

We observed 474 surveillance-detected cancers—334 invasive and 140 ductal carcinoma in situ—and 186 interval invasive cancers which yielded a cancer detection rate of 7.3 per 1,000 examinations (95% CI, 6.6 to 8.0) and an interval invasive cancer rate of 2.9 per 1,000 examinations (95% CI, 2.5 to 3.3). Median cumulative 5-year interval cancer risk was 1.4% (interquartile range, 0.8% to 2.3%; 10th to 90th percentile range, 0.5% to 3.7%), and 15% of women had ≥ 3% 5-year interval invasive cancer risk. Cumulative 5-year interval cancer risk was highest for women with estrogen receptor– and progesterone receptor–negative primary breast cancer (2.6%; 95% CI, 1.7% to 3.5%), interval cancer presentation at primary diagnosis (2.2%; 95% CI, 1.5% to 2.9%), and breast conservation without radiation (1.8%; 95% CI, 1.1% to 2.4%).

Conclusion

Risk of interval invasive second breast cancer varies across women and is influenced by characteristics that can be measured at initial diagnosis, treatment, and imaging. Risk prediction models that evaluate the risk of cancers not detected by surveillance mammography should be developed to inform discussions of tailored surveillance.
Comprehensive Genetic Analysis of Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma Predicts Prognosis Independent of Histology
Authors: Nicolson Norman G , Murtha Timothy D , Dong Weilai , Paulsson Johan O , Choi Jungmin , Barbieri Andrea L , Brown Taylor C , Kunstman John W , Larsson Catharina , Prasad Manju L , Korah Reju , Lifton Richard P , Juhlin C Christofer , Carling Tobias
Published: May 2018

Context

Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) is classified into minimally invasive (miFTC), encapsulated angioinvasive (eaFTC), and widely invasive (wiFTC) subtypes, according to the 2017 World Health Organization guidelines. The genetic signatures of these subtypes may be crucial for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment but have not been described.

Objective

Identify and describe the genetic underpinnings of subtypes of FTC.

Methods

Thirty-nine tumors, comprising 12 miFTCs, 17 eaFTCs, and 10 wiFTCs, were whole-exome sequenced and analyzed. Somatic mutations, constitutional sequence variants, somatic copy number alterations, and mutational signatures were described. Clinicopathologic parameters and mutational profiles were assessed for associations with patient outcomes.

Results

Total mutation burden was consistent across FTC subtypes, with a median of 10 (range 1 to 44) nonsynonymous somatic mutations per tumor. Overall, 20.5% of specimens had a mutation in the RAS subfamily (HRAS, KRAS, or NRAS), with no notable difference between subtypes. Mutations in TSHR, DICER1, EIF1AX, KDM5C, NF1, PTEN, and TP53 were also noted to be recurrent across the cohort. Clonality analysis demonstrated more subclones in wiFTC. Survival analysis demonstrated worse disease-specific survival in the eaFTC and wiFTC cohorts, with no recurrences or deaths for patients with miFTC. Mutation burden was associated with worse prognosis, independent of histopathological classification.

Conclusions

Though the number and variety of somatic variants are similar in the different histopathological subtypes of FTC in our study, mutational burden was an independent predictor of mortality and recurrence.
Electronic Patient Record System in Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar: Challenges and Improvements
Authors: Khamis Eman
Published: April 2018

The concentration in healthcare information technology increases as hospitals realize the importance of utilizing Electronic Patient Record (EPR). Also Qatari’s healthcare system realizes the importance of EPR and aims to improve current patient record system in hospitals in Qatar including Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) hospitals.The challenge for EPR is to supply health providers and medical researchers with a complete view of health status in HMC in general. To achieve that it is needed to overcome some obstacles such as: interoperability which happens when patient has multiple medical records, achieve accountability which means the ability to identify the healthcare party who deal with medical data, overcome the lack of ability to uniquely identify patients, using standardized medical terminology, maintain patient privacy and effectively retrieve patient information.This research was done to find solutions to the following research questions: What are the benefits of current patient record system in Hamad Medical Corporation? What is the most practical way of using patient healthcare information to help medical researchers? And how can electronic patient record systems improve the quality of retrieving diagnosis data and avoid medical errors while saving time for healthcare professionals?
The research is based on two steps: first step, evaluating the current situation at HMC and second step, enhancements were suggested to current EPR in HMC. Suggested enhancement are adding the Qatari ID to EPR to overcome interoperability and assure data integrity, adding National Drug Code NDC to be able to retrieve medication prescript by physicians and adding diagnosis from one medical thesaurus.The methods of investigation used was: case study approach, exploring a HMC case and conducting interviews while using established theories to reach conclusions.