bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BetoScan 2.0 – Werkzeug für die proaktive Lebenszyklusbetrachtung
Authors: Moryson Ralf , Herrmann Hans‐Georg
Published: September 2017

Zunehmendes Verkehrsaufkommen, höhere Gesamtgewichte und klimatische Veränderungen haben in den letzten Jahrzehnten den Alterungsprozess der Infrastruktur verstärkt. Der daraus resultierende Anstieg der Erhaltungskosten erfordert einen optimierten Einsatz der Erhaltungsmittel der Betreiber. Basis des Erhaltungsmanagements ist ein umfassendes Wissen über den Zustand der Bauwerke. Die aktuellen Richtlinien (z. B. DIN 1076, RI‐EBW‐PRÜF) definieren Prüfintervalle, die üblicherweise mehrere Jahre umfassen; wobei viele Methoden der Zustandserfassung auf einer handnahen Prüfung beruhen. Ergebnisse der Zustandsbewertung werden in Kennzahlen zusammengefasst, die einen objektiven Vergleich gestatten. Die daraus ableitbare Priorisierung unterstützt die reaktive Substanzerhaltung bei der Optimierung der Ressourcen. Schädigungsprozesse können damit aber über große Zeiträume ihr destruktives Potenzial zur Entfaltung bringen. Besonders bei großen Bauwerken zieht dies einen höheren Aufwand für Prüfung und Instandhaltung nach sich. Automatisierte, multimodale Zustandserfassungssysteme, wie der hier vorgestellte BetoScan, unterstützen daher gleichermaßen Bauwerksprüfer wie Betreiber. Durch einen schnelleren Prüfprozess, höhere Reproduzierbarkeit der Ergebnisse sowie eine größere Informationsbasis unterstützt BetoScan eine optimale Diagnose und fördert damit Konzepte einer proaktiven Substanzerhaltung mit dem Ziel, Schädigungsprozesse frühzeitig zu erkennen und zu beseitigen.
Work–Family Balance Self‐Efficacy's Relationship With STEM Commitment: Unexpected Gender Moderation
Authors: Myers Dante P. , Major Debra A.
Published: September 2017

The number of students, particularly the number of women, completing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) undergraduate degrees is insufficient to meet the U.S. demand. Thus, research investigating key predictors of STEM commitment is of high importance. Applying the Social Cognitive Model of Career Self‐Management (SCCT‐CSM; Lent & Brown, ) as a guiding framework, this study examined the relationship between work–family balance self‐efficacy (WFSE) and STEM commitment as moderated by gender. The sample included 246 STEM students (106 women, 140 men) from a southeastern university. A 3‐step hierarchical regression analysis demonstrated that WFSE accounted for incremental variance in STEM commitment beyond traditional social‐cognitive predictors, and gender moderated the relationship between WFSE and STEM commitment. Contrary to expectations, the relationship was stronger for men than for women. Findings suggest resiliency among women, showing that they are committed to STEM regardless of low WFSE. Practical implications for university and workplace contexts are discussed.
New Supervisors' Struggles and Successes With Corrective Feedback
Authors: Borders L. DiAnne , Welfare Laura E. , Sackett Corrine R. , Cashwell Craig
Published: September 2017

Seven doctoral supervisors described their experiences giving corrective feedback, including events when constructive feedback and confrontation did and did not go well. Findings reveal their thoughts and feelings before, during, and after each event. The authors suggest several specific pedagogical directions for facilitating supervisor development in this area.
A multifunctional nanocarrier for efficient TRAIL‐based gene therapy against hepatocellular carcinoma with desmoplasia in mice
Authors: Liu Chun‐Hung , Chern Guann‐Jen , Hsu Fu‐Fei , Huang Kuan‐Wei , Sung Yun‐Chieh , Huang Hsi‐Chien , Qiu Jiantai Timothy , Wang Sheng‐Kai , Lin Chu‐Chi , Wu Chien‐Hsun , Wu Han‐Chung , Liu Jia‐Yu , Chen Yunching
Published: September 2017

The anticancer efficacy of TNF‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL)‐based therapy is limited because of systemic toxicity, poor bioavailability, and development of TRAIL resistance. We developed a tumor‐targeted LCPP (lipid/calcium/phosphate/protamine) nanoparticle (NP) to deliver TRAIL plasmid DNA (pDNA) into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in a mouse model of HCC. TRAIL pDNA was encapsulated in a pH stimuli‐responsive calcium phosphate (CaP) core, and protamine was added to facilitate nuclear delivery of pDNA. In addition, intracellular release of Ca2+ from the CaP core overcame TRAIL resistance by calcium influx‐dependent DR5 up‐regulation. TRAIL expression also attenuated fibrosis in liver tissues surrounding HCCs by reverting activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) to a quiescent state or by directly inducing apoptosis in activated HSCs. Conclusion: TRAIL pDNA delivered by HCC‐targeted LCPP NPs in combination with conventional sorafenib treatment attenuated HCC progression as well as liver fibrosis. Overall, our study presents an effective TRAIL‐based cancer therapy that could be developed for clinical applications. (Hepatology 2018;67:899–913)
Comparison between the Valsalva maneuver and intraoperative traction measurements in pelvic organ prolapse assessment
Authors: Doumouchtsis Stergios K. , Gauthaman Nivedita , Khunda Azar , Basu Maya , Dadhwal Kiran , Gayle Yasmin V. , Durnea Constantin M.
Published: September 2017

Objective

To compare the assessment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) between the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP‐Q) system with Valsalva maneuver and intraoperative measurement with mechanical traction.

Methods

A prospective observational study included 100 women with POP attending a tertiary urogynecology clinic in the UK and undergoing vaginal prolapse surgical procedures between October 2011 and October 2014. The women were examined in the clinic using POP‐Q with the Valsalva maneuver and in the operating theater under general anesthesia with mechanical traction. The two sets of measurements were compared.

Results

All POP‐Q measurements obtained with traction demonstrated significantly higher descent as compared with those measured by Valsalva maneuver (mean differences: Aa 0.64 cm; Ap 1.32 cm; Ba 0.96 cm; Bp 1.34 cm; C 3.57 cm; D 3.40 cm; all P<0.001). The perineal body and total vaginal lengths did not differ significantly.

Conclusion

Measurements of six POP‐Q points obtained with traction showed a higher grade of POP than those assessed with Valsalva maneuver. On this basis, surgeons might decide on the extent of surgical procedure after examination under anesthesia; however, preoperative patient counselling would be essential to obtain consent for this approach. The clinical significance of the findings requires further evaluation.
Associations between intratumoral and peritumoral M2 macrophage counts and cervical squamous cell carcinoma invasion patterns
Authors: Li Yuan , Huang Gaosheng , Zhang Shaohua
Published: September 2017

Objective

To study the correlation between M2 tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) and invasion patterns in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) tissues.

Methods

In the present observational study, two commercial SCC tissue microarrays were evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2016. CD163‐positive cells in a cervical SCC tissue microarray were identified. Tissue samples were stratified into groups based on a pushing border pattern (PBP), a diffuse infiltration pattern (DIP), or non‐tumorous tissues included as a control group; M2 TAM numbers and distributions were compared.

Results

The microarrays included 109 cervical SCC samples and 45 non‐tumorous control samples. The mean number of intratumoral M2 TAMs in cervical SCC tissue samples (35.8 ± 28.3) was significantly higher than the number of intraepithelial M2 TAMs in non‐tumorous cervical samples (1.2 ± 3.6) (P<0.001); similarly, the number of peritumoral M2 TAMs in cervical SCC (44.7 ± 29.4) was higher than in non‐tumorous cervical tissues (10.4 ± 9.2) (P<0.001). The numbers of intratumoral (P=0.046) and peritumoral (P=0.002) M2 TAMs were higher among the DIP group compared with the PBP group.

Conclusion

A close relationship was identified between M2 TAMs and invasion patterns in cervical SCC. Further, M2 TAM infiltration was more pronounced in DIP compared with PBP SCC tissue samples.
Prospective study of the effect of maternal body mass index on labor progress in nulliparous women in Egypt
Authors: Maged Ahmed M. , Belal Doaa S. , Marie Heba M. , Rashwan Hamsa , Abdelaziz Suzy , Gabr Amir A. , Elzayat Ahmed R.
Published: September 2017

Objective

To evaluate the impact of maternal body mass index (BMI, calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters) on labor progress in nulliparous women.

Methods

The present prospective cohort study enrolled primigravidae admitted to Kasr Al Ainy hospital, Cairo University, Egypt, during active labor between February 1, 2016, and February 28, 2017. Patients were classified into three equal groups using their BMI at admission: underweight (<18.5), normal weight (18.5–29.9), and obese (≥30). The primary outcome was the rate of cervical dilatation; secondary outcomes included the duration of the second stage of labor, neonatal delivery weight, and the mode of delivery.

Results

Among the 600 primigravidae enrolled (200 in each group), significant differences were recorded in the rates of cervical dilatation (P<0.001), and the duration of the active labor phase (P<0.001) and the whole of labor (P<0.001); in the obese group, the cervical dilatation rate was lowest and the durations of the active phase of labor and the whole of labor were longer. The incidence of intrapartum cesarean delivery (P<0.001) and neonatal delivery weight (P<0.001) also differed between the groups; both were highest in the obese group.

Conclusions

Patterns in labor progress, including cervical dilatation rate and labor duration, differed among patients with different BMI.

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02686073.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Anacetrapib Following Single Doses in Healthy, Young Japanese and White Male Subjects
Authors: Krishna Rajesh , Gheyas Ferdous , Liu Yang , Cote Josee , Laterza Omar , Ruckle Jon L. , Wagner John A. , Denker Andrew E.
Published: September 2017

Anacetrapib is a cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor being developed for the treatment of mixed dyslipidemia. The aim of the study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and safety characteristics of anacetrapib following single doses in healthy, young Japanese men. In a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, 3‐panel, single‐rising‐dose study, 6 healthy young Japanese male or white male subjects (aged 19 to 44 years) received single oral doses of 5 to 500 mg anacetrapib, and 2 received placebo. Plasma and urine drug concentrations were measured 0–168 hours postdose, and plasma CETP inhibition was measured 0–24 hours postdose. Urinary anacetrapib levels were all below quantitation limits. Plasma concentrations of anacetrapib increased approximately less than dose‐proportionally. Consumption of a traditional Japanese breakfast prior to dosing increased the plasma pharmacokinetics of anacetrapib in Japanese subjects compared with fasted conditions, to a similar extent as in white subjects. CETP activity measured over 0–24 hours postdose resulted in significant inhibition. Anacetrapib was generally well tolerated, and there were no serious adverse experiences. No clinically meaningful differences in PK and CETP inhibition parameters were found between Japanese and white subjects.
A Pathogenic Mechanism Potentially Operative in Multiple Progressive Diseases and Its Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Re Richard N.
Published: September 2017

A variety of peptide signaling moieties that we have termed intracrines can act in the interiors of their cells of synthesis or of target cells after internalization. These intracrine factors are known to be upregulated in such disorders as diabetic nephropathy, systolic heart failure, and age‐related macular degeneration. Indeed, a similar set of intracrines is upregulated in each of these disorders, suggesting a commonality of mechanism. In addition, several chronic neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease involve intercellular trafficking of intracellular disease‐causing proteins. These disorders can be considered intracrine‐like. Here the mechanistic and therapeutic implications of these observations, and of the relevant modes of intracrine action, are discussed, including the possibility that similar therapeutic approaches could be effective in multiple progressive disorders and the implications of these observations for intracrine pharmacology in general.
Delphi consensus on bile duct injuries during laparoscopic cholecystectomy: an evolutionary cul‐de‐sac or the birth pangs of a new technical framework?
Authors: Iwashita Yukio , Hibi Taizo , Ohyama Tetsuji , Umezawa Akiko , Takada Tadahiro , Strasberg Steven M. , Asbun Horacio J. , Pitt Henry A. , Han Ho‐Seong , Hwang Tsann‐Long , Suzuki Kenji , Yoon Yoo‐Seok , Choi In‐Seok , Yoon Dong‐Sup , Huang Wayne Shih‐Wei , Yoshida Masahiro , Wakabayashi Go , Miura Fumihiko , Okamoto Kohji , Endo Itaru , de Santibañes Eduardo , Giménez Mariano Eduardo , Windsor John A. , Garden O. James , Gouma Dirk J. , Cherqui Daniel , Belli Giulio , Dervenis Christos , Deziel Daniel J. , Jonas Eduard , Jagannath Palepu , Supe Avinash Nivritti , Singh Harjit , Liau Kui‐Hin , Chen Xiao‐Ping , Chan Angus C. W. , Lau Wan Yee , Fan Sheung Tat , Chen Miin‐Fu , Kim Myung‐Hwan , Honda Goro , Sugioka Atsushi , Asai Koji , Wada Keita , Mori Yasuhisa , Higuchi Ryota , Misawa Takeyuki , Watanabe Manabu , Matsumura Naoki , Rikiyama Toshiki , Sata Naohiro , Kano Nobuyasu , Tokumura Hiromi , Kimura Taizo , Kitano Seigo , Inomata Masafumi , Hirata Koichi , Sumiyama Yoshinobu , Inui Kazuo , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: September 2017

Bile duct injury (BDI) during laparoscopic cholecystectomy remains a serious iatrogenic surgical complication. BDI most often occurs as a result of misidentification of the anatomy; however, clinical evidence on its precise mechanism and surgeons’ perceptions is scarce. Surgeons from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and the USA, etc. (n = 614) participated in a questionnaire regarding their BDI experience and near‐misses; and perceptions on landmarks, intraoperative findings, and surgical techniques. Respondents voted for a Delphi process and graded each item on a five‐point scale. The consensus was built when ≥80% of overall responses were 4 or 5. Response rates for the first‐ and second‐round Delphi were 60.6% and 74.9%, respectively. Misidentification of local anatomy accounted for 76.2% of BDI. Final consensus was reached on: (1) Effective retraction of the gallbladder, (2) Always obtaining critical view of safety, and (3) Avoiding excessive use of electrocautery/clipping as vital procedures; and (4) Calot's triangle area and (5) Critical view of safety as important landmarks. For (6) Impacted gallstone and (7) Severe fibrosis/scarring in Calot's triangle, bail‐out procedures may be indicated. A consensus was reached among expert surgeons on relevant landmarks and intraoperative findings and appropriate surgical techniques to avoid BDI.
Long‐term sequelae of hippocampal lesions in patients with transient global amnesia: A multiparametric MRI study
Authors: Wang Xiaochuan , Zhang Ran , Wei Wenping , Jiang Haibo , Gao Zhongming , Lin Jianzhong , Zhang Jiaxing
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

MRI signal diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) hyperintensity in the hippocampus in patients with transient global amnesia (TGA) are resolved within several days after the onset of TGA.

PURPOSE

To use multiparametric MRI to unravel the sequelae of TGA.

STUDY TYPE

A prospective longitudinal study.

POPULATION

Eight TGA patients.

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

A 3.0T Siemens Tim Trio MRI scanner with T1‐weighted MPRAGE, diffusion‐weighted echo planar imaging, and multiecho gradient‐recalled echo sequences.

ASSESSMENT

Brain MRI scanned within 72 hours, 2 weeks, and 3 months after onset of TGA, respectively. T1 image hippocampus was first segmented into 12 subregions using FreeSurfer and registered to DWI to locate DWI lesion. Then a T1 image with segmented hippocampus was registered to its corresponding apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map, fractional anisotropy (FA) map, and quantitative susceptibility map, respectively. Finally, the volume, water diffusion and anisotropy, and magnetic susceptibility of DWI lesion were analyzed.

STATISTICAL TESTS

A paired samples t‐test was performed to detect measurement differences between three tests. Pearson correlation was used to assess the correlations between all measurements.

RESULTS

Hyperintensity was detected in the head, body, and caudate of CA1 and hippocampal tail. No significant changes existed in CA1/unit volume across the three timepoint measurements (all, P > 0.480). In Test 1, ratio ADC (DWI lesion / adjacent healthy, rADC) and ratio FA (rFA) decreased below, while ratio susceptibility increased above 1.0. In Test 2, all the episodes normalized around 1.0. In Test 3, rADC remained normalization, but rFA decreased and ratio susceptibility increased again. In Test 1 and Test 3 (vs. Test 2), decreased FA values were accompanied with lower axial diffusivity and/or higher radial diffusivity (all, P < 0.001). Moreover, rFA significantly correlated with ratio susceptibility in Test 3 (r = −0.665, P = 0.039).

DATA CONCLUSION

Microstructural sequelae in hippocampus were demonstrated, which indicates that ischemic lesions may be associated with TGA.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1350–1358.
Vascular Pattern Analysis on Microvascular Sonography for Differentiation of Pleomorphic Adenomas and Warthin Tumors of Salivary Glands
Authors: Ryoo Inseon , Suh Sangil , Lee Young Hen , Seo Hyung Suk , Seol Hae Young , Woo Jeong‐Soo , Kim Soo Chin
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Pleomorphic adenomas and Warthin tumors are the most common salivary gland tumors. It is important to differentiate between them because at least a partial parotidectomy is necessary for pleomorphic adenomas, whereas enucleation is sufficient for Warthin tumors. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of vascular pattern analysis using microvascular sonography to differentiate between the tumors.

Methods

Sixty‐two patients with pathologically proven pleomorphic adenomas (n = 38) and Warthin tumors (n = 24) were included. For all tumors, grayscale, power Doppler, and microvascular sonographic examinations were performed. Differences in vascular patterns (vascular distribution and internal vascularity) on power Doppler and microvascular sonography as well as grayscale sonographic features (size, shape, border, echogenicity, heterogeneity, and cystic change) between pleomorphic adenomas and Warthin tumors were evaluated. A comparison of diagnostic performances of grayscale sonography with power Doppler sonography and grayscale sonography with microvascular sonography was performed. The level of interobserver agreement between 2 reviewers in diagnosing tumors was evaluated.

Results

No grayscale sonographic features showed a significant difference between the tumors. Vascular distributions and internal vascularity on power Doppler sonography (P = .01 and .002) and microvascular sonography (both P < .001) were all significantly different. The diagnostic accuracy of grayscale sonography with microvascular sonography (79.0%) was higher than that of grayscale sonography with power Doppler sonography (72.6%). This difference was significant according to the McNemar test (P = .004). Interobserver agreement was excellent in diagnosing tumors on both grayscale sonography with power Doppler sonography (κ = 0.83) and grayscale sonography with microvascular sonography (κ = 0.94).

Conclusions

Vascular pattern analysis using microvascular sonography with other sonographic features is helpful for differentiating between pleomorphic adenomas and Warthin tumors.
Homogeneity study of proton and carbon ion scanning beams using combinations of different spot sizes and grid sizes
Authors: Xing Ying , Wu Xianwei , Li Yongqiang , Zhao Jun
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Different scanning ion beam delivery systems have different delivery accuracies, and the resulting delivery errors will affect field homogeneity. This study was performed to determine an appropriate combination of spot size (FWHM) and spot grid size (GS), which can provide homogenous dose distributions for both proton and carbon ion scanning beam radiotherapy. The combination of the two parameters is represented by a combination factor named n, which is the quotient of FWHM divided by GS.

Methods

Delivery uncertainties of our beam delivery system were analyzed using log files from the treatment of 28 patients. Square fields for different n values were simulated with and without considering the delivery uncertainties, and the homogeneity of these square fields was analyzed. All spots were located on a rectilinear grid with equal spacing in the x and y directions. In addition to the simulations, we performed experimental measurements using both protons and carbon ions. We selected six energy levels for both proton and carbon ions. For each energy level, we created six square field plans with different n values (1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5). These plans were delivered and the field homogeneity was determined using a film measurement.

Results

The simulations demonstrated that under ideal condition (i.e., the delivery system has no delivery errors), the homogeneity is within 3% when n ≥ 1.1. When delivery uncertainties were included in the simulation, the homogeneity is within 3% when n ≥ 2.3. For film measurements, homogeneity under 3% was achieved when n ≥ 2.5.

Conclusion

A practical method to determine the appropriate combination of spot size and grid size is here presented. Considering the uncertainties of the beam delivery system, an n value of 2.5 is good enough to meet the lateral homogeneity requests in our center. The methods used here can be easily repeated in other particle therapy centers.
Recent advances in scaling‐down sampling methods in machine learning
Authors: ElRafey Amr , Wojtusiak Janusz
Published: September 2017

Data sampling methods have been investigated for decades in the context of machine learning and statistical algorithms, with significant progress made in the past few years driven by strong interest in big data and distributed computing. Most recently, progress has been made in methods that can be broadly categorized into random sampling including density‐biased and nonuniform sampling methods; active learning methods, which are a type of semi‐supervised learning and an area of intense research; and progressive sampling methods which can be viewed as a combination of the above two approaches. A unified view of scaling‐down sampling methods is presented in this article and complemented with descriptions of relevant published literature. WIREs Comput Stat 2017, 9:e1414. doi: 10.1002/wics.1414

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Sampling
Martingale–coboundary decomposition for families of dynamical systems
Authors: Korepanov A. , Kosloff Z. , Melbourne I.
Published: September 2017

We prove statistical limit laws for sequences of Birkhoff sums of the type

\sum _{j = 0}^{n−1}v_{n} \circ T_{n}^{j}

where

T_{n}

is a family of nonuniformly hyperbolic transformations.

The key ingredient is a new martingale–coboundary decomposition for nonuniformly hyperbolic transformations which is useful already in the case when the family

T_{n}

is replaced by a fixed transformation

T

, and which is particularly effective in the case when

T_{n}

varies with

n

.

In addition to uniformly expanding/hyperbolic dynamical systems, our results include cases where the family

T_{n}

consists of intermittent maps, unimodal maps (along the Collet–Eckmann parameters), Viana maps, and externally forced dispersing billiards.

As an application, we prove a homogenisation result for discrete fast–slow systems where the fast dynamics is generated by a family of nonuniformly hyperbolic transformations.
Effect of Penile Traction and Vacuum Erectile Device for Peyronie’s Disease in an Animal Model
Authors: Lin Haocheng , Liu Chunhui , Wang Run
Published: September 2017

Background

Penile traction therapy with the use of a traction device (TD) or vacuum erectile device (VED) has been studied as local modalities for Peyronie’s disease (PD).

Aim

To identify changes of penile curvature, erectile function, and possible cellular and molecular mechanisms between the TD and VED in a rat model of PD.

Methods

Peyronie’s plaque was induced in 30 adult male rats. Then, rats were randomly divided into control (PD without treatment), VED, and TD groups. In the VED group, vacuum pressure was applied to the cylinder to induce penile engorgement inside the cylinder for 1 minute. The penis was allowed to deflate completely for another 1 minute. This was repeated for five cycles (inflate and deflate). In the TD group, the rat penis was straightened by a suspended tension gauge at the same tension by clamping the prepuce. This was performed three times per day at 20 minutes per session, with 5-minute intervals between sessions. The entire treatment duration was 4 weeks.

Outcomes

Penile curvature, intracavernosal pressure, and mean arterial pressure were measured. Immunohistochemistry for α-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor-β1 and mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3 were performed.

Results

The TD and VED groups had less penile curvature compared with the control group (15.3 ± 5.3° for TD, 28.4 ± 6.8° for VED, 38.6 ± 10.5° for control; P < .001 for TD vs control, P < .05 for VED vs control). The TD group also had less penile curvature compared with the VED group (P < .05). The VED group had a higher ratio of intracavernosal pressure to mean arterial pressure compared with the two other groups (0.56 ± 0.10 for VED, 0.38 ± 0.06 for TD, 0.32 ± 0.07 for control; P < .001). The immunohistochemistry results showed the VED group had more preserved α-smooth muscle actin with less transforming growth factor-β1 and mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3 than the TD and control groups in the corpus cavernosa.

Clinical Translation

Various benefits can be observed with the TD and VED for the treatment of PD.

Strengths and Limitations

This study explored the mechanism and benefits of TD and VED therapies for the treatment of PD. The rat model might not represent the human condition.

Conclusion

Penile traction therapy with the TD or VED is beneficial to decrease penile curvature in animal models of PD. The underlying mechanism could be related to antiapoptosis, antifibrosis, and smooth muscle preservation.
Expected sizes of Poisson–Delaunay mosaics and their discrete Morse functions
Authors: Edelsbrunner Herbert , Nikitenko Anton , Reitzner Matthias
Published: September 2017

Mapping every simplex in the Delaunay mosaic of a discrete point set to the radius of the smallest empty circumsphere gives a generalized discrete Morse function. Choosing the points from a Poisson point process in ℝn, we study the expected number of simplices in the Delaunay mosaic as well as the expected number of critical simplices and nonsingular intervals in the corresponding generalized discrete gradient. Observing connections with other probabilistic models, we obtain precise expressions for the expected numbers in low dimensions. In particular, we obtain the expected numbers of simplices in the Poisson–Delaunay mosaic in dimensionsn≤ 4.
On zero-sum two-person undiscounted semi-Markov games with a multichain structure
Authors: Mondal Prasenjit
Published: September 2017

Zero-sum two-person finite undiscounted (limiting ratio average) semi-Markov games (SMGs) are considered with a general multichain structure. We derive the strategy evaluation equations for stationary strategies of the players. A relation between the payoff in the multichain SMG and that in the associated stochastic game (SG) obtained by a data-transformation is established. We prove that the multichain optimality equations (OEs) for an SMG have a solution if and only if the associated SG has optimal stationary strategies. Though the solution of the OEs may not be optimal for an SMG, we establish the significance of studying the OEs for a multichain SMG. We provide a nice example of SMGs in which one player has no optimal strategy in the stationary class but has an optimal semistationary strategy (that depends only on the initial and current state of the game). For an SMG with absorbing states, we prove that solutions in the game where all players are restricted to semistationary strategies are solutions for the unrestricted game. Finally, we prove the existence of stationary optimal strategies for unichain SMGs and conclude that the unichain condition is equivalent to require that the game satisfies some recurrence/ergodicity/weakly communicating conditions.
Simulation from quasi-stationary distributions on reducible state spaces
Authors: Griffin A. , Jenkins P. A. , Roberts G. O. , Spencer S. E. F.
Published: September 2017

Quasi-stationary distributions (QSDs) arise from stochastic processes that exhibit transient equilibrium behaviour on the way to absorption. QSDs are often mathematically intractable and even drawing samples from them is not straightforward. In this paper the framework of sequential Monte Carlo samplers is utilised to simulate QSDs and several novel resampling techniques are proposed to accommodate models with reducible state spaces, with particular focus on preserving particle diversity on discrete spaces. Finally, an approach is considered to estimate eigenvalues associated with QSDs, such as the decay parameter.
THE DIOPHANTINE PROBLEM FOR ADDITION AND DIVISIBILITY OVER SUBRINGS OF THE RATIONALS
Authors: CERDA-ROMERO LEONIDAS , MARTINEZ-RANERO CARLOS
Published: September 2017

It is shown that the positive existential theory of the structure (ℤ[S−1]; =, 0, 1, + , |), where S is a nonempty finite set of prime numbers, is undecidable. This result should be put in contrast with the fact that the positive existential theory of (ℤ; =, 0, 1, + |) is decidable.
Σ1(κ)-DEFINABLE SUBSETS OF H(κ+)
Authors: LÜCKE PHILIPP , SCHINDLER RALF , SCHLICHT PHILIPP
Published: September 2017

We study Σ1(ω1)-definable sets (i.e., sets that are equal to the collection of all sets satisfying a certain Σ1-formula with parameter ω1 ) in the presence of large cardinals. Our results show that the existence of a Woodin cardinal and a measurable cardinal above it imply that no well-ordering of the reals is Σ1(ω1)-definable, the set of all stationary subsets of ω1 is not Σ1(ω1)-definable and the complement of every Σ1(ω1)-definable Bernstein subset of ${}_{}^{{\omega _1}}\omega _1^{}$ is not Σ1(ω1)-definable. In contrast, we show that the existence of a Woodin cardinal is compatible with the existence of a Σ1(ω1)-definable well-ordering of H(ω2) and the existence of a Δ1(ω1)-definable Bernstein subset of ${}_{}^{{\omega _1}}\omega _1^{}$. We also show that, if there are infinitely many Woodin cardinals and a measurable cardinal above them, then there is no Σ1(ω1)-definable uniformization of the club filter on ω1. Moreover, we prove a perfect set theorem for Σ1(ω1)-definable subsets of ${}_{}^{{\omega _1}}\omega _1^{}$, assuming that there is a measurable cardinal and the nonstationary ideal on ω1 is saturated. The proofs of these results use iterated generic ultrapowers and Woodin’s ℙmax-forcing. Finally, we also prove variants of some of these results for Σ1(κ)-definable subsets of κκ, in the case where κ itself has certain large cardinal properties.
SQUARES AND NARROW SYSTEMS
Authors: LAMBIE-HANSON CHRIS
Published: September 2017

A narrow system is a combinatorial object introduced by Magidor and Shelah in connection with work on the tree property at successors of singular cardinals. In analogy to the tree property, a cardinal κ satisfies the narrow system property if every narrow system of height κ has a cofinal branch. In this paper, we study connections between the narrow system property, square principles, and forcing axioms. We prove, assuming large cardinals, both that it is consistent that ℵω+1 satisfies the narrow system property and $\square _{\aleph _\omega , < \aleph _\omega } $ holds and that it is consistent that every regular cardinal satisfies the narrow system property. We introduce natural strengthenings of classical square principles and show how they can be used to produce narrow systems with no cofinal branch. Finally, we show that the Proper Forcing Axiom implies that every narrow system of countable width has a cofinal branch but is consistent with the existence of a narrow system of width ω1 with no cofinal branch.
‘Civilization’ and its subalterns
Authors: Go Julian
Published: September 2017

This article reviews Andrew Linklater’sViolence and Civilization in the Western States-Systems. Focusing upon the book’s explanation of the ‘European civilizing process’ in the modern era, it suggests that the account is limited by ‘civilizational isolationism’ and ‘metrocentric diffusion’. These analytic operations serve to minimise the agency and contributions of non-Western, colonial, and postcolonial actors to the global civilizing process. The occlusion of such agency and contributions, however, are not specific to this work, but reflect broader limitations in historical sociology writ large.
The untimely historical sociologist
Authors: Lawson George
Published: September 2017

This article examines the historical sociology that informs Andrew Linklater’sViolence and Civilization in the Western States-Systems. On the sociological side, it critically assesses Linklater’s use of Elias and Wight, arguing that his ‘higher level synthesis’ is internally incompatible. On the historical side, the article argues that the occlusion of the transnational interactions that, in great measure, drive historical development means that Linklater’s analysis is inadequate for its stated purpose: to chart the development of civilising processes within the Western state-systems.
Poverty Alleviation, Global Justice, and the Real World
Authors: Brown Chris
Published: September 2017

The modern literature on responding to global poverty is over fifty years old and has attracted the attention of some of the most prominent analytical political theorists of the age, including Brian Barry, Charles Beitz, Simon Caney, Thomas Pogge, John Rawls, and Peter Singer. Yet in spite of this extraordinary concentration of brainpower, the problem of global poverty has quite clearly not been solved or, indeed, adequately defined. We are therefore entitled to ask two questions of any new contribution to this literature: first, what does it have to offer that past work does not; and second, what reason is there to think that, this time, it will truly make a difference. These questions will be posed below, but before undertaking this task it may be useful to offer an overview of the field, with particular attention to why the problem of global poverty seems so intractable.
Effects of reducing processed culinary ingredients and ultra-processed foods in the Brazilian diet: a cardiovascular modelling study
Authors: Moreira Patrícia VL , Hyseni Lirije , Moubarac Jean-Claude , Martins Ana Paula B , Baraldi Larissa G , Capewell Simon , O’Flaherty Martin , Guzman-Castillo Maria
Published: September 2017

Objective

To estimate the impact of reducing saturated fat, trans-fat, salt and added sugar from processed culinary ingredients and ultra-processed foods in the Brazilian diet on preventing cardiovascular deaths by 2030.

Design

A modelling study.

Setting

Data were obtained from the Brazilian Household Budget Survey 2008/2009. All food items purchased were categorized into food groups according to the NOVA classification. We estimated the energy and nutrient profile of foods then used the IMPACT Food Policy model to estimate the reduction in deaths from CVD up to 2030 in three scenarios. In Scenario A, we assumed that the intakes of saturated fat, trans-fat, salt and added sugar from ultra-processed foods and processed culinary ingredients were reduced by a quarter. In Scenario B, we assumed a reduction of 50 % of the same nutrients in ultra-processed foods and processed culinary ingredients. In Scenario C, we reduced the same nutrients in ultra-processed foods by 75 % and in processed culinary ingredients by 50 %.

Results

Approximately 390 400 CVD deaths might be expected in 2030 if current mortality patterns persist. Under Scenarios A, B and C, CVD mortality can be reduced by 5·5, 11·0 and 29·0 %, respectively. The main impact is on stroke with a reduction of approximately 6·0, 12·6 and 32·0 %, respectively.

Conclusions

Substantial potential exists for reducing the CVD burden through overall improvements of the Brazilian diet. This might require reducing the penetration of ultra-processed foods by means of regulatory policies, as well as improving the access to and promotion of fresh and minimally processed foods.
Psychological and Cognitive Aspects of Borderline Intellectual	Functioning
Authors: Contena Bastianina , Taddei Stefano
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Borderline Intellectual Functioning (BIF) refers to a global IQ ranging from 71 to 84, and it represents a condition of clinical attention for its association with other disorders and its influence on the outcomes of treatments and, in general, quality of life and adaptation. Furthermore, its definition has changed over time causing a relevant clinical impact. For this reason, a systematic review of the literature on this topic can promote an understanding of what has been studied, and can differentiate what is currently attributable to BIF from that which cannot be associated with this kind of intellectual functioning. Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria, we have conducted a review of the literature about BIF. The results suggest that this condition is still associated with mental retardation, and only a few studies have focused specifically on this condition.
Understanding CD30 biology and therapeutic targeting: a historical perspective providing insight into future directions
Authors: van der Weyden C A , Pileri S A , Feldman A L , Whisstock J , Prince H M
Published: September 2017

CD30 is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily. It is characteristically expressed in certain hematopoietic malignancies, including anaplastic large cell lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma, among others. The variable expression of CD30 on both normal and malignant lymphoid cells has focused research efforts on understanding the pathogenesis of CD30 upregulation, its contribution to lymphomagenesis through anti-apoptotic mechanisms, and its effect on cell survival. Given the restriction of CD30 to certain tumor types, the logical extension of this has been to attempt to exploit it as a therapeutic target. The efficacy of naked anti-CD30 antibodies in practice was, however, modest. Moreover, combinations with bacterial toxins and radioimmunoconjugates have also had limited success. The development of the antibody-drug compound brentuximab vedotin (BV), however, has rejuvenated interest in CD30 as a tumor target. Phase I and II clinical trials in Hodgkin lymphoma, peripheral T-cell lymphoma, cutaneous T cell lymphoma, and even CD30-expressing B-cell lymphomas, have shown the compound is well tolerated, but more importantly, able to deliver meaningful disease control even in patients with multiply relapsed or refractory disease. FDA approval has been granted for its use in relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma and systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma. A recent phase III trial of BV in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma has confirmed its superiority to standard of care therapies. In this manuscript, we explore the history of CD30 as a tumor marker and as a therapeutic target, both in the laboratory and in the clinic, with a view to understanding future avenues for further study.
Dendritic lamellar assembly in solution-cast poly(l-lactic acid) spherulites
Authors: Chen Hsin-Ping , Woo Eamor M.
Published: September 2017

PLLA crystallized by solvent evaporation in THF in open atmosphere exhibits a one-ring or two-ring birefringence-banded morphology with dendritic lamellae arranged in multi-layers and shaped as a dome.
Sodium-cationized carbohydrate gas-phase fragmentation chemistry: influence of glycosidic linkage position
Authors: Rabus Jordan M. , Abutokaikah Maha T. , Ross Reginald T. , Bythell Benjamin J.
Published: September 2017

Gas-phase structure and fragmentation chemistries of isomeric sodium-cationized sugars.
Sucrose-mediated mechanical exfoliation of graphite: a green method for the large scale production of graphene and its application in catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Balasubramanyan Sowmya , Sasidharan Sreenikesh , Poovathinthodiyil Raveendran , Ramakrishnan Resmi M. , Narayanan Binitha N.
Published: September 2017

A simple and green method for the large scale production of graphene by ball-milling of graphite with sucrose is exploited here.
Mediators of mutualistic microbe–microbe interactions
Authors: Scherlach Kirstin , Hertweck Christian
Published: September 2017

This viewpoint summarizes recent advances in understanding the role of natural products as regulators of mutualistic microbial interactions.
A duty cycle generation scheme for the three‐phase single‐stage full‐bridge PFC in balanced‐grid
Authors: Ben Hongqi , Wang Xuesong , Meng Tao , Chen Zhenduo
Published: September 2017

In this Letter, the duty cycle generation scheme is presented and implemented, which can improve the input performances of the three‐phase single‐stage full‐bridge power factor correction (PFC) converter. The analysis and discussion is aiming at the operation of the PFC converter in balanced grid condition. On the basis of the instantaneous expression of the three‐phase input current, the ideal duty cycle of each phase is obtained. To achieve a good PF for each phase, a simplified duty cycle generation scheme is presented and implemented in the three‐phase PFC converter. The simulating and experimental results based on a 500 W prototype show that after adoption of the presented duty cycle generation scheme, a higher PF has been achieved for each phase of the three‐phase PFC converter.
Katastrophen- und Zivilschutz in Deutschland
Authors: Kippnich Maximilian , Kowalzik Barbara , Cermak Rudolf , Kippnich Uwe , Kranke Peter , Wurmb Thomas
Published: September 2017

Das Zugunglück von Bad Aibling, Terroranschläge, aber auch die Hochwasserlagen der letzten Jahre haben gezeigt, mit welchen Schadensereignissen in Deutschland zu rechnen ist. Für solche zivilen Einsatzlagen gibt es in Deutschland im Rahmen der nicht polizeilichen Gefahrenabwehr den Katastrophenschutz. Hinzu kommt der Zivilschutz, der dem Schutz der Bevölkerung bei militärischen Einsatzlagen dient. Dieser Beitrag stellt die beiden Systeme vor.
Characterization of an AC glow-type gliding arc discharge in atmospheric air with a current-voltage lumped model
Authors: Kong Chengdong , Gao Jinlong , Zhu Jiajian , Ehn Andreas , Aldén Marcus , Li Zhongshan
Published: September 2017

Quantitative characterization of a high-power glow-mode gliding arc (GM-GA) discharge operated in open air is performed using a current-voltage lumped model that is built from the perspective of energy balance and electron conservation. The GM-GA discharge is powered by a 35 kHz alternating current power supply. Instantaneous images of the discharge volume are recorded using a high-speed camera at a frame rate of 50 kHz, synchronized with the simultaneously recorded current and voltage waveforms. Detailed analyzation indicates that the electrical input power is dissipated mainly through the transport of vibrationally excited nitrogen and other active radicals (such as O). The plasma is quite non-thermal with the ratio of vibrational and translational temperatures (Tv/Tg) larger than 2 due to the intense energy dissipation. The electron number density reaches 3 × 1019 m−3 and is always above the steady value owing to the short cutting events, which can recover the electron density to a relatively large value and limits the maximum length of the gliding arc. The slow decaying rate of electrons is probably attributed to the decomposed state of a hot gaseous mixture and the related associative ionization.
Effective g factor of low-density two-dimensional holes in a Ge quantum well
Authors: Lu T. M. , Harris C. T. , Huang S.-H. , Chuang Y. , Li J.-Y. , Liu C. W.
Published: September 2017

We report the measurements of the effective g factor of low-density two-dimensional holes in a Ge quantum well. Using the temperature dependence of the Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations, we extract the effective g factor in a magnetic field perpendicular to the sample surface. Very large values of the effective g factor, ranging from ∼13 to ∼28, are observed in the density range of 1.4×1010 cm−2– 1.4×1011 cm−2. When the magnetic field is oriented parallel to the sample surface, the effective g factor is obtained from a protrusion in the magneto-resistance data that signify full spin polarization. In the latter orientation, a small effective g factor, ∼1.3−1.4, is measured in the density range of 1.5×1010 cm−2–2×1010 cm−2. This very strong anisotropy is consistent with theoretical predictions and previous measurements in other 2D hole systems, such as InGaAs and GaSb.
Resistive spectroscopy coupled with non-contacting oscillator for detecting discontinuous-continuous transition of metallic films
Authors: Nakamura N. , Ogi H.
Published: September 2017

In spectroscopic measurements, one measures responses of specimens to oscillating fields (including electric, magnetic, and stress fields) at different frequencies for characterizing the samples. In contrast, we develop spectroscopy where the response (loss) is measured by changing the electric resistance, named the resistive spectroscopy. In the resistive spectroscopy, an energy-loss peak appears when the resistance is changed. We here apply it for studying the morphological change of thin films. When a metallic material is deposited on a substrate, the morphological transition from discontinuous islands to the continuous film occurs. It accompanies a drastic change in the resistance of the deposited material because of the transition from an insulator to a conductor. We find that the energy-loss peak appears at the transition moment during deposition of Ag. The resistive spectroscopy we develop uses no electrodes; it adopts the electric field generated by a piezoelectric material vibrating at its resonant frequency beneath the substrate. It is observed that the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the resonance shows the peak during the deposition for high resistance substrates. The FWHM peak fails to be found for low resistance substrates, but it appears when the resonance frequency is increased. We propose an electrical-circuit model for explaining these observations.
On the relationship between the local segmental dynamics and the tagged monomer dynamics in lamellar phases of diblock copolymers
Authors: Sethuraman Vaidyanathan , Ganesan Venkat
Published: September 2017

In this brief article, we present results from coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations which probed the relationship between the local segmental dynamics and the tagged monomer dynamics in lamellar phases of diblock copolymers. Our results demonstrate that monomer relaxation times do not provide directly a quantitatively accurate measure of the spatial variations in segmental dynamics. However, a convolution of the monomer density distributions with their corresponding relaxation times is shown to provide an approximate, but accurate, quantitative characterization of the average local segmental dynamics.
Entropic lattice pseudo-potentials for multiphase flow simulations at high Weber and Reynolds numbers
Authors: Montessori A. , Prestininzi P. , La Rocca M. , Succi S.
Published: September 2017

We present an entropic version of the lattice Boltzmann pseudo-potential approach for the simulation of multiphase flows. The method is shown to correctly simulate the dynamics of impinging droplets on hydrophobic surfaces and head-on and grazing collisions between droplets, at Weber and Reynolds number regimes not accessible to previous pseudo-potential methods at comparable resolution.