bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The future of Big Data in facilities management: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Ahmed Vian , Tezel Algan , Aziz Zeeshan , Sibley Magda
Published: August 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the current condition of the Big Data concept with its related barriers, drivers, opportunities and perceptions in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry with an emphasis on facilities management (FM).

Design/methodology/approach

Following a comprehensive literature review, the Big Data concept was investigated through two scoping workshops with industry experts and academics.

Findings

The value in data analytics and Big Data is perceived by the industry, yet the industry needs guidance and leadership. Also, the industry recognises the imbalance between data capturing and data analytics. Large IT vendors’ developing AEC industry-focused analytics solutions and better interoperability among different vendors are needed. The general concerns for Big Data analytics mostly apply to the AEC industry as well. Additionally, however, the industry suffers from a structural fragmentation for data integration with many small-sized companies operating in its supply chains. This paper also identifies a number of drivers, challenges and way-forwards that calls for future actions for Big Data in FM in the AEC industry.

Originality/value

The nature of data in the business world has dramatically changed over the past 20 years. This phenomenon is often broadly dubbed as “Big Data” with its distinctive characteristics, opportunities and challenges. Some industries have already started to effectively exploit “Big Data” in their business operations. However, despite many perceived benefits, the AEC industry has been slow in discussing and adopting the Big Data concept. Empirical research efforts investigating Big Data for the AEC industry are also scarce. This paper aims at outlining the benefits, challenges and future directions (what to do) for Big Data in the AEC industry with an FM focus.
Algebraic solutions of flow and heat for some nanofluids over deformable and permeable surfaces
Authors: Turkyilmazoglu Mustafa
Published: August 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to working out exact solutions for the boundary layer flow of some nanofluids over porous stretching/shrinking surfaces with different configurations. To serve to this aim, five types of nanoparticles together with the water as base fluid are under consideration, namely, Ag, Cu, CuO, Al2O3 and TiO2.

Design/methodology/approach

The physical flow is affected by the presence of velocity slip as well as temperature jump conditions.

Findings

The knowledge on the influences of nanoparticle volume fraction on the practically significant parameters, such as the skin friction and the rate of heat transfer, for the above considered nanofluids, is easy to gain from the extracted explicit formulas.

Originality/value

Particularly, formulas clearly point that the heat transfer rate is not only dependent on the thermal conductivity of the material but it also highly relies on the heat capacitance as well as the density of the nanofluid under consideration.
Cultural transposition of Chinese lesson study to Italy
Authors: Bartolini Bussi Maria Giuseppina , Bertolini Chiara , Ramploud Alessandro , Sun Xuhua
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the early implementation of a model of mathematics teacher development in Italian schools, inspired by Chinese lesson study (CLS), focusing on similarities and differences.

Design/methodology/approach

A research lesson study on fractions in the fourth grade was conducted. The approach was designed based on the theory of semiotic mediation (TSM) enriched by means of quaternary analysis and the variation pedagogy of CLS. In this study, qualitative methods were employed involving the collection of data including lesson plans, observations and post-lesson analyses.

Findings

The purpose of this study is to determine what works and what does not work in the Italian context. Answers to the following research questions are provided: How did LS incorporate quaternary analysis and variation pedagogy in the TSM? How and why were changes introduced in the structure of the lesson plan with respect to the CLS? How did members of the Italian Mathematics Teaching Research Group increase their knowledge of teaching methods and content?

Research limitations/implications

The issues to be considered in further studies include the possible conflicts emerging between the cultures of teaching in China and Italy and the way to overcome them.

Practical implications

The main ideas of CLS are consistent with the general indications of the Italian Ministry of Education for the three-year program (2016-2019) of mandatory teacher development.

Originality/value

Reporting the findings of an Italian LS is aimed at exploring the differences and similarities among the different forms of LS, under the influence of cultural and institutional constraints.
From Shanghai to Tennessee
Authors: Cravens Xiu , Drake Timothy
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to document a three-year international project aimed to improve the capacity of participating schools and districts in implementing and scaling Teacher Peer Excellence Groups (TPEGs). The TPEG model involves teams of teachers organized by subject matter or grade levels, deeply engaged in communities of practice for instructional improvement. It facilitates the professionalization of teaching through the de-privatization of teacher practice, collaborative planning, giving and receiving actionable feedback, and holding one another accountable for implementing improvement measures.

Design/methodology/approach

The project is a collaborative partnership between US and Chinese universities and school districts in Tennessee and Shanghai. Mixed-method approaches were used to track the development and implementation of the TPEG model in 27 pilot schools in six Tennessee districts from 2013 to 2016. Data were collected through school site visits, lesson-planning documents, classroom observations, focus groups, interviews, and teacher and principal surveys.

Findings

This paper compiles the key findings from multiple research studies and program reports about the TPEG project. Findings provide encouraging evidence that, given sufficient support and guidance, teachers can construct productive learning communities. The results show consistent positive and statistically significant result across all three key signposts for effective communities of practice – increases in instructional collaboration, comfort with deprivatized teaching practice, and engagement in deprivatized teaching practice. These findings hold after controlling for key enabling conditions and school characteristics. Qualitative analyses provide a rich and nuanced picture of how TPEGs were doing after the implementation grants. Participating schools reported a full range of engagements in TPEGs, and emphasized the role of school leadership in facilitating and supporting teachers to lead and participate in TPEGs.

Originality/value

The TPEG project provides a valuable case study to address the benefits, concerns, and potential risks associated with cross-cultural learning of effective instructional practices. Findings from the three-year process highlight the key steps of cultivating the necessary culture and expertise to support, implement, and sustain effective TPEGs school-wide and district-wide. It also underscores the necessity of developing and customizing tools and resource kit for supporting this work such as observation protocols, feedback guides, and examples of timetables to conduct TPEG activities.
Delamination analysis of a layered elastic-plastic beam
Authors: Rizov Victor
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to perform a theoretical analysis of delamination fracture behaviour of the Crack Lap Shear layered beam configuration taking into account the material non-linearity. A delamination crack located arbitrarily along the beam height was considered in this study.

Design/methodology/approach

The beam mechanical behaviour was described by using the Ramberg-Osgood stress-strain relation. Fracture was analysed by applying the J-integral approach. Besides by using symmetric Ramberg-Osgood stress-strain curve, fracture was investigated also by Ramberg-Osgood stress-strain curve that is not symmetric with respect to tension and compression. The J-integral solutions were verified by performing elastic-plastic analyses of the strain energy release rate.

Findings

The effects of crack location and material properties on the non-linear fracture behaviour were evaluated. It was found that the material non-linearity leads to increase of the J-integral values. Therefore, the material non-linearity has to be taken into account in fracture mechanics based safety design of structural members composed by layered materials. The analytical solutions derived are very useful for parametric investigations of delamination fracture with considering the material non-linearity. The results obtained can be applied for optimisation of the beam structure with respect to fracture performance.

Originality/value

The present study contributes for the understanding of delamination fracture in layered beams that exhibit non-linear material behaviour.
Female executives and corporate governance
Authors: Vähämaa Emilia
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether the gender of the top executives is associated with the strength of corporate governance mechanisms within a firm.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses panel and instrumental variable regressions on an eight-year sample of the S&P 1,500 firms.

Findings

The results indicate that firms with female Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and Chief Financial Officers have higher quality governance practices. Moreover, female CEOs are documented to have the most significant influence on the governance attributes related to the board of directors and takeover defenses mechanisms.

Originality/value

Overall, these findings indicate that the gender of the firm’s executives may have important implications for the strength of corporate governance. The paper promotes the importance of the recent national policies in numerous countries on gender quotas at the executive level.
Effects of lactoferrin and lactoperoxidase‐containing food on the oral microbiota of older individuals
Authors: Nakano Manabu , Wakabayashi Hiroyuki , Sugahara Hirosuke , Odamaki Toshitaka , Yamauchi Koji , Abe Fumiaki , Xiao Jin‐Zhong , Murakami Kohji , Ishikawa Kentaro , Hironaka Shouji
Published: September 2017

The oral microbiota influences health and disease states. Some gram‐negative anaerobic bacteria play important roles in tissue destruction associated with periodontal disease. Lactoferrin (LF) and lactoperoxidase (LPO) are antimicrobial proteins found in saliva; however, their influence on the whole oral microbiota currently remains unknown. In this randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study, the effects of long‐term ingestion of LF and LPO‐containing tablets on the microbiota of supragingival plaque and tongue coating were assessed. Forty‐six older individuals ingested placebo or test tablets after every meal for 8 weeks. The relative abundance of bacterial species was assessed by 16S rRNA gene high‐throughput sequencing. Most of the bacterial species in supragingival plaque and tongue coating that exhibited significant decreases in the test group were gram‐negative bacteria, including periodontal pathogens. Decreases in the total relative abundance of gram‐negative organisms in supragingival plaque and tongue coating correlated with improvements in assessed variables related to oral health, such as oral malodor and plaque accumulation. Furthermore, there was significantly less microbiota diversity in supragingival plaque at 8 weeks in the test group than in the placebo group and low microbiota diversity correlated with improvements in assessed variables related to oral health. These results suggest that LF and LPO‐containing tablets promote a shift from a highly diverse and gram‐negative‐dominated to a gram‐positive‐dominated community in the microbiota of supragingival plaque and tongue coating. This microbial shift may contribute to improvements in oral health, including oral malodor and state of the gingiva.
Ectopic thyroid cancer diagnosed by endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration
Authors: Hu Jingwen , Li Ming , Xu Lin
Published: September 2017

We report a case of papillary carcinoma in a mediastinal ectopic thyroid diagnosed by endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA). In this case, the tumor was adjacent to the central airway; therefore, we attempted to perform EBUS‐TBNA to obtain specimens for a diagnosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma. Surgical resection was conducted, and histological evaluation of the resected specimen confirmed ectopic papillary thyroid carcinoma, consistent with the histology from the EBUS‐TBNA specimen. As a safe and minimally invasive procedure, EBUS‐TBNA may be considered for the diagnosis of mediastinal lesions, including papillary carcinoma in mediastinal ectopic thyroid.
Overdoses with Aripiprazole: Signs, Symptoms and Outcome in 239 Exposures Reported to the Danish Poison Information Centre
Authors: Christensen Amalie P. , Boegevig Soeren , Christensen Mikkel B. , Petersen Kasper M. , Dalhoff Kim P. , Petersen Tonny S.
Published: September 2017

The aim of this study was to characterize the clinical signs and symptoms of exposures to aripiprazole overdoses. We retrospectively identified all aripiprazole exposures reported to the Danish Poison Information Centre (DPIC) from June 2007 to May 2015. Information concerning demographics, ingested dose and symptoms was extracted from the DPIC database and medical records. Information on death and admission to hospital was obtained from Danish national registers. We analysed 239 cases, 86 concerning single‐drug exposures to aripiprazole, and 153 cases where aripiprazole had been taken with at least one other substance (mixed‐drug). The median ingested aripiprazole dose was 105 mg (IQR: 50‐1680 mg) in the single‐drug exposure group and 120 mg (IQR: 60‐225 mg) in the mixed‐drug exposure group. The most commonly reported symptom was light sedation, reported in 63% of the single‐drug group and 50% of the mixed‐drug exposure group. There were no malignant arrhythmias or ECG abnormalities after single‐drug exposures. No deaths were recorded in relation to the intake. We found a long‐term mortality rate of 13 deaths per 1000 person‐years (95% CI: 7; 23 per 1000 person‐years), which is significantly higher than in an age‐ and gender‐matched background population. In conclusion, we found that aripiprazole overdoses had few and mild symptoms predominantly related to the sedative properties. We detected a benign cardiovascular safety profile and no new safety concerns. Our findings may support an increased threshold of 300 mg for hospital admission after a single‐drug exposure with aripiprazole and symptoms not worse than light sedation.
Allosteric modulation as a unifying mechanism for receptor function and regulation
Authors: Changeux Jean‐Pierre , Christopoulos Arthur
Published: September 2017

Four major receptor families enable cells to respond to chemical and physical signals from their proximal environment. The ligand‐ and voltage‐gated ion channels, G‐protein‐coupled receptors, nuclear hormone receptors and receptor tyrosine kinases are all allosteric proteins that carry multiple, spatially distinct, yet conformationally linked ligand‐binding sites. Recent studies point to common mechanisms governing the allosteric transitions of these receptors, including the impact of oligomerization, pre‐existing and functionally distinct conformational ensembles, intrinsically disordered regions, and the occurrence of allosteric modulatory sites. Importantly, synthetic allosteric modulators are being discovered for these receptors, providing an enriched, yet challenging, landscape for novel therapeutics.
LEANING AGAINST WINDY BANK LENDING
Authors: Melina Giovanni , Villa Stefania
Published: August 2017

Using an estimated dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model with banking, this paper first provides evidence that monetary policy reacted to bank loan growth in the United States during the Great Moderation. It then shows that the optimized simple interest‐rate rule features no response to the growth of bank credit. However, the welfare loss associated to the empirical responsiveness is small. The sources of business cycle fluctuations are crucial in determining whether a “leaning‐against‐the‐wind” policy is optimal or not. In fact, the predominant role of supply shocks in the model gives rise to a trade‐off between inflation and financial stabilization. (JEL E32, E44, E52)
Output‐Based Performance Pay, Performance‐Support Bias, and the Racial Pay Gap within a Large Retail Stock Brokerage
Authors: Madden Janice Fanning , Vekker Alexander
Published: September 2017

We measure sources of racial inequality in stockbroker pay. Pay differences arise from sales differences. We measure the extent to which sales differences are due to performance‐support bias, whereby African American brokers receive weaker firm supports, or to forces outside the firm, including client access, selection, and consumer discrimination. Data on firm policies are matched to sales results. Data on self‐generation of accounts measure access to wealthy clients. Sales generated from accounts with sales histories show racial differences in sales arising from selection or consumer discrimination.
Remyelination of regenerating axons
Authors: Neumann B. , Baror R. , van Wijngaarden P. , Franklin R.J.
Published: September 2017

Remyelination depends on adult multipotent progenitor cells, called oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) that give rise to remyelinating oligodendrocytes. With age, remyelination slows and axons remain demyelinated, rendering them vulnerable to ir‐ reversible degeneration. which eventually contributes to the accumulation of disability in patients with chronic demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. The rate limiting step for remyelination in aged individuals is the maturation of OPCs into oligo‐ dendrocytes. Here we report that aged OPCs undergo inherent changes that prevent their differentiation. Using alternate day fasting to ameliorate the effects of ageing, we were able to restore remyelination in aged rats. Mechanistically, this involved the mo‐ lecular rejuvenation of aged OPCs and amelioration of ageing hallmarks. By exposing aged OPCs to metformin we were able to phenocopy the effects of fasting in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest that implementation of remyelination therapies will require both understanding and overcoming the effects of ageing, as well as finding ways to modulate extrinsic factors to generate a permissive environment for regeneration.
Pressure sore risk calculators: some methodological issues
Authors: EDWARDS MARGARET
Published: September 2017

Pressure sore risk calculators have assumed a cardinal role in pressure sore prevention and management.

Doubts have been expressed as to the extent to which the use of risk calculators should direct care as they have not been found to display high levels of reliability and validity.

This paper raises important methodological issues regarding the reliability and validity of risk calculators in order to inform the debate as to the direction of future research in this area.
Urinary incontinence in bitches under primary veterinary care in England: prevalence and risk factors
Authors: O'Neill D. G. , Riddell A. , Church D. B. , Owen L. , Brodbelt D. C. , Hall J. L.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To estimate prevalence and demographic risk factors for urinary incontinence in bitches under primary veterinary care in England.

Methods

The study population included all bitches within the VetCompass database from September 1, 2009 to July 7, 2013. Electronic patient records were searched for urinary incontinence cases and additional demographic and clinical information was extracted.

Results

Of 100,397 bitches attending 119 clinics in England, an estimated 3108 were diagnosed with urinary incontinence. The prevalence of urinary incontinence was 3·14% (95% confidence intervals: 2·97 to 3·33). Medical therapy was prescribed to 45·6% cases. Predisposed breeds included the Irish setter (odds ratio: 8·09; 95% confidence intervals: 3·15 to 20·80; P< 0·001) and Dobermann (odds ratio: 7·98; 95% confidence intervals: 4·38 to 14·54; P< 0·001). Increased odds of a diagnosis of urinary incontinence were associated with: (1) weight at or above the mean adult bodyweight for the breed (odds ratio: 1·31; 95% confidence intervals: 1·12 to 1·54; P< 0·001), (2) age 9 to 12 years (odds ratio: 3·86; 95% confidence intervals: 2·86 to 5·20, P< 0·001), (3) neuter status (odds ratio: 2·23; 95% confidence intervals: 1·52 to 3·25, P< 0·001) and (4) being insured (odds ratio: 1·59; 95% confidence intervals: 1·34 to 1·88, P< 0·001).

Clinical Impact

Clinical Impact: Urinary incontinence affects just over 3% of bitches overall but affects more than 15% of bitches in high‐risk breeds including the Irish setter, Dobermann, bearded collie, rough collie and Dalmatian. These results provide an evidence base for clinicians to enhance clinical recommendations on neutering and weight control, especially in high‐risk breeds.
Language as a public good and national identity: Scotland's competing heritage languages
Authors: Chhim Chris , Bélanger Éric
Published: September 2017

The preservation of one or several historically and culturally important languages may be a salient political issue in some polities. Although they may not be used as an active means of communication, these languages can also serve a symbolic identitary function. These ‘heritage’ languages can be seen as ‘public goods’ and that even non‐speakers of these languages can have opinions regarding their importance to national identity. In the Scotland example, while Gaelic has been the focus of proactive government legislation and education initiatives, Scots is still struggling for status as a recognised language. Both languages are in some way constituent parts of Scottish identity that at times may seem in competition with one another. Using original survey data, we delve deeper into questions of language, identity and politics in Scotland. First, we describe how public opinion is divided over the importance of Gaelic and Scots to Scottish identity. Second, we use attitudes towards these languages as a dependent variable looking at Scottish identity and attachment. Finally, we use these attitudes towards Gaelic and Scots as an independent variable in models for party identification in Scotland.
Chloroplast position and photosynthetic characteristics in two monostromatic species,Monostroma angicavaandProtomonostroma undulatum(Ulvophyceae), having a shared ecological niche
Authors: Saco Jayvee Ablaña , Murakami Akio , Sekida Satoko , Mine Ichiro
Published: September 2017

Monostroma angicavaandProtomonostroma undulatumare monostromatic green benthic algae (Ulvophyceae), which grow together in the same intertidal habitat of Muroran, Hokkaido, Japan, during the spring season. Commonly, both species have a single chloroplast with one pyrenoid per cell. The parietal chloroplast is located on the periphery of the thallus in both species, although the location of the chloroplast differs in the two. InM. angicava, the chloroplast was observed to be arranged on one‐side of the thallus surface, whereas, inP. undulatum, it was dispersed and randomly located on either side of the thallus or on the lateral face. The density of chlorophylls (Chls) assessed from the absorption spectra of the thallus and its solvent extract was higher inM. angicava, which appeared dark‐green in color, than in the light‐green coloredP. undulatum. The maximum photosynthetic rate per thallus area (μmol O2m−2s−1) was higher inM. angicava, whereas, per total chlorophyll content (μmol O2g Chla+ Chlb−1s−1) was higher inP. undulatum. Both species showed similar efficiency of photosynthesis at light‐limiting conditions. The efficiency of light absorption by photosystemII(PSII) inP. undulatumwas higher thanM. angicava, whereas the photoprotective response was higher inM. angicava. This indicates that more energy is utilized inM. angicavato protect itsPSIIdue to the chloroplast position, which has more direct exposure to light and, therefore, lowers the efficiency of light absorption byPSII. The higher density of chlorophylls inM. angicavacould explain higher photosynthesis per thallus area, whereas, higher efficiency of light absorption byPSIIinP. undulatumcould explain higher photosynthesis per total chlorophyll content. The differences in light absorption efficiency and quantum efficiency ofPSIImight be an important ecological strategy in these two species for their coexistence in the intertidal area.
On categories for quantized symplectic resolutions
Authors: Losev Ivan
Published: September 2017

In this paper we study categories ${\mathcal{O}}$ over quantizations of symplectic resolutions admitting Hamiltonian tori actions with finitely many fixed points. In this generality, these categories were introduced by Braden et al. We establish a family of standardly stratified structures (in the sense of the author and Webster) on these categories ${\mathcal{O}}$. We use these structures to study shuffling functors of Braden et al. (called cross-walling functors in this paper). Most importantly, we prove that all cross-walling functors are derived equivalences that define an action of the Deligne groupoid of a suitable real hyperplane arrangement.
Acoustic impact of the gradual glottal abduction degree on the production of fricatives: A numerical study
Authors: Elie Benjamin , Laprie Yves
Published: September 2017

The paper presents a numerical study about the acoustic impact of the gradual glottal opening on the production of fricatives. Sustained fricatives are simulated by using classic lumped circuit element methods to compute the propagation of the acoustic wave along the vocal tract. A recent glottis model is connected to the wave solver to simulate a partial abduction of the vocal folds during their self-oscillating cycles. Area functions of fricatives at the three places of articulation of French have been extracted from static MRI acquisitions. Simulations highlight the existence of three distinct regimes, named A, B, and C, depending on the degree of abduction of the glottis. They are characterized by the frication noise level: A exhibits a low frication noise level, B, which is a transitional unstable regime, is a mixed noise/voice signal, and C contains only frication noise. They have significant impacts on the first spectral moments. Simulations show that their boundaries depend on articulatory and glottal configurations. The transition regime B is shown to be unstable: it requires very specific configurations in comparison with other regimes, and acoustic features are very sensitive to small perturbations of the glottal configuration abduction in this regime.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Posaconazole Tablets and Monte Carlo Simulations To Determine whether All Patients Should Receive the Same Dose
Authors: Petitcollin A. , Boglione-Kerrien C. , Tron C. , Nimubona S. , Lalanne S. , Lemaitre F. , Bellissant E. , Verdier M.-C.
Published: August 2017

Posaconazole is extensively used for prophylaxis for invasive fungal infections. The gastro-resistant tablet formulation has allowed the bioavailability issues encountered with the oral suspension to be overcome. However, overexposure is now frequent. This study aimed to (i) describe the pharmacokinetics of posaconazole tablets in a real-life cohort of patients with hematological malignancies and (ii) perform Monte Carlo simulations to assess the possibility that the daily dose can be reduced while keeping a sufficient exposure. Forty-nine consecutive inpatients were prospectively included in the study. Posaconazole trough concentrations (TC) were measured once a week, and biological and demographic data were collected. The concentrations were analyzed by compartmental modeling, and Monte Carlo simulations were performed using estimated parameters to assess the rate of attainment of the target TC after dose reduction. The pharmacokinetics of posaconazole were well described using a one-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination. The values of the parameters (interindividual variabilities) were as follows: the absorption constant (

k
a

) was 0.588 h
−1
(fixed), the volume of distribution (
V
/
F
) was 420 liters (28.2%), and clearance (CL/
F
) was 7.3 liters/h (24.2%) with 31.9% interoccasion variability. Forty-nine percent of the simulated patients had TC at steady state of ≥1.5 μg/ml and maintained a TC above 1 μg/ml after a reduction of the dose to 200 mg daily. A third of these patients eligible for a dose reduction had TC of ≥1.5 μg/ml as soon as 48 h of treatment. Though posaconazole tablets were less impacted by bioavailability issues than the oral suspension, the pharmacokinetics of posaconazole tablets remain highly variable. Simulations showed that approximately half of the patients would benefit from a reduction of the dose from 300 mg to 200 mg while keeping the TC above the minimal recommended target of 0.7 μg/ml, resulting in a 33% savings in the cost of this very expensive drug.
Imatinib dramatically alleviates pulmonary tumour thrombotic microangiopathy induced by gastric cancer
Authors: Kubota Kana , Shinozaki Taro , Imai Yasushi , Kario Kazuomi
Published: September 2017

Pulmonary tumour thrombotic microangiopathy (PTTM) is a rare complication of cancer, which can be lethal due to progressive pulmonary hypertension (PH). Several case reports have demonstrated that imatinib, a platelet-derived growth factor receptor–tyrosine kinase inhibitor, can improve severe PH in patients with PTTM.

We describe the case of a 56-year-old woman. Her mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) was 47 mm Hg, and her dyspnoea worsened rapidly over several days. Although pulmonary embolism was not observed on CT, enlargement of the para-aortic lymph nodes was detected. Gastro-oesophageal endoscopy revealed signet-ring cell carcinoma. We diagnosed her as having PTTM based on her clinical course, and started treatment with imatinib. Five days after its administration, her mPAP decreased dramatically. She was discharged and lived without symptoms of PH until her death due to systemic metastasis of carcinoma. In some cases of PTTM, imatinib may be an effective therapeutic option for PH.
Combinations of soil materials for granular capillary barriers for minimizing rainfall infiltration and gas emission
Authors: Zhang L.M. , Ke Y.Q.
Published: September 2017

This paper presents a coupled air–water flow analysis to evaluate the performance of a three-layer capillary barrier for controlling water infiltration into and gas emission from a waste containment system in a high precipitation environment, and to optimize combinations of local soil layers for barrier construction. A multi-phase flow model is proposed considering the movements of the gas and water phases simultaneously. The governing partial differential equations are solved in COMSOL Multiphysics software. Several combinations of lean clay with sand (CL), clayey sand with gravel (SC), silty sand with gravel (SM), sandy silt (ML), and well-graded gravel with silt (GW–GM) are examined. The rates of percolation water and gas emission are used as indicators to compare the performance of different combinations. A fine-grained surface soil layer reduces both water infiltration and gas emission due to its low desaturation rate and high water-retention capacity. The coarse middle layer plays a critical role, promoting capillary effects and hindering water infiltration during rainfall as well as draining any infiltrated water or percolated gas.
Elasto-Plastic Separation Frequency Analysis of Interference Fitted Joints in Lightweight Materials
Authors: Kovan Volkan
Published: August 2017

Aluminum has become a widely used material in the automotive industry due to the need for production of lighter automobiles. As the number and complexity of aluminum products increase, it becomes necessary to improve methods used to join these parts. Thermal interference fitting is one of these methods. It is not possible to calculate interference fit stresses accurately for all conditions using traditional calculation methods, and a method to calculate separation frequency of interference fitted aluminum parts is not available. This study investigates elastic–plastic interference fit stresses and separation frequencies of lightweight metal gear and steel shaft interference fitted joints (which have begun to be used widely in designs) using analytical and numerical calculation methods. It was found as a result of the study that plastic deformation occurred due to decreasing diameter, and increasing interference and numerical calculation methods produced accurate results. It was determined as a result of numerical analysis that the separation frequency of lightweight metal gears was lower in smaller interference fit diameters compared with steel gears, and that this increased in connection with increasing interference fit diameter and was found to be higher compared with steel gears.
The normal closure of a power of a half-twist has infinite index in the mapping class group of a punctured sphere
Authors: Stylianakis Charalampos
Published: August 2017

In this paper we show that the normal closure of the [Formula: see text]th power of a half-twist has infinite index in the mapping class group of a punctured sphere if [Formula: see text] is at least five. Furthermore, in some cases we prove that the quotient of the mapping class group of the punctured sphere by the normal closure of a power of a half-twist contains a free abelian subgroup. As a corollary we prove that the quotient of the hyperelliptic mapping class group of a surface of genus at least two by the normal closure of the [Formula: see text]th power of a Dehn twist has infinite order, and for some integers [Formula: see text] the quotient contains a free group. As a second corollary we recover a result of Coxeter: the normal closure of the [Formula: see text]th power of a half-twist in the braid group of at least four strands has infinite index. Our method is to reformulate the Jones representation of the mapping class group of a punctured sphere, using the action of Hecke algebras on [Formula: see text]-graphs, as introduced by Kazhdan–Lusztig.
Disjoint dominating sets with a perfect matching
Authors: Klostermeyer William F. , Messinger Margaret-Ellen , Ayello Alejandro Angeli
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we consider dominating sets [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are disjoint and there exists a perfect matching between them. Let [Formula: see text] denote the cardinality of smallest such sets [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] (provided they exist, otherwise [Formula: see text]). This concept was introduced in [W. F. Klostermeyer, M. E. Messinger and A. Angeli Ayello, An eternal domination problem in grids, Theory Appl. Graphs 4(1) (2017) 23pp.] in the context of studying a certain graph protection problem. We characterize the trees [Formula: see text] for which [Formula: see text] equals a certain graph protection parameter and for which [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the independence number of [Formula: see text]. We also further study this parameter in graph products, e.g., by giving bounds for grid graphs, and in graphs of small independence number.
Using Networks to Teach About Networks (Report on Dagstuhl Seminar #17112)
Authors: Schönwälder Jürgen , Friedman Timur , Pras Aiko
Published: September 2017

This report summarizes a two and a half days Dagstuhl seminar on “Using Networks to Teach About Networks”. The seminar brought together people with mixed backgrounds in order to exchange experiences gained with different approaches to teach computer networking. Despite the obvious question of what to teach, special attention was given to the questions of how to teach and which tools and infrastructures can be used effectively today for teaching purposes.
Interface Kinetics, Grain-Scale Deformation, and Polymorphism
Authors: Morris S.J.S.
Published: September 2017

Deviatoric stress generated within subducting slabs by the olivine–spinel transformation has been modeled by assuming the phases to be simply connected rather than comprising a mixture in which one phase is embedded within another. Here, we use a simplified model to explain how transformation strain is incorporated into a continuum model, and we then use the simplified model to explain quantitatively the origin of the unreasonably large deviatoric stresses predicted by existing slab models. We review experiments on the transformation of single-crystal samples and argue that they are consistent with the occurrence, at the grain scale, of deviatoric stresses comparable with those predicted (erroneously) to exist at the slab scale by those slab models. Using a simple example, we show that although large deviatoric stresses can exist at the grain scale, their average over a sample containing many grains can be hydrostatic. This leads us to the problem of modeling the microscale structure. We outline the thermodynamics needed for such nonhydrostatic systems, and we illustrate their use and implications with examples.
Researching the Earth—and a Few of Its Neighbors
Authors: Kieffer Susan Werner
Published: September 2017

During my career, our knowledge of erupting geysers and volcanoes in the Solar System has exploded. In this prefatory, I tell how I became fascinated with high-speed processes through studying meteorite impact dynamics, and then how my initial idea of studying Old Faithful geyser as a volcanic analog led me to work not only on the dynamics of eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980 but also on geysers erupting on Io (a fiery satellite of Jupiter), Triton (a frigid satellite of Neptune), and Enceladus (an active satellite of Saturn). Unforeseeably, the study of these events also led to work on mineral thermodynamics and the hydraulics and geomorphic evolution of rapids in the Grand Canyon. This is a narrative, not a formal review article, but the reader can find references in the Related Resources section to explore topics in more detail.
Oleate activates SREBP-1 signaling activity in SCD1-deficient hepatocytes
Authors: Lounis Mohamed A. , Bergeron Karl-F. , Burhans Maggie S. , Ntambi James M. , Mounier Catherine
Published: August 2017

Stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD1) is a key player in lipid metabolism. SCD1 catalyzes the synthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). MUFA are then incorporated into triacylglycerols and phospholipids. Previous studies have shown that Scd1 deficiency in mice induces metabolic changes in the liver characterized by a decrease in de novo lipogenesis and an increase in β-oxidation. Interestingly, Scd1-deficient mice show a decrease in the expression and maturation of the principal lipogenic transcription factor sterol receptor element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1). The mechanisms mediating this effect on de novo lipogenesis and β-oxidation have not been fully elucidated. We evaluated the role of SCD1 on de novo lipogenesis and β-oxidation in HepG2 cells. We also used Scd1-deficient mice and two strains of transgenic mice that produce either oleate (GLS5) or palmitoleate (GLS3) in a liver-specific manner. We demonstrate that the expression of β-oxidation markers increases in SCD1-deficient hepatocytes and suggest that this is due to an increase in cellular polyunsaturated fatty acid content. We also show that the changes in the level of SREBP-1 expression, for both the precursor and the mature forms, are mainly due to the lack of oleate in SCD1-deficient hepatocytes. Indeed, oleate treatment of cultured HepG2 cells or hepatic oleate production in chow-fed GLS5 mice can restore SREBP-1 expression and increase hepatic de novo lipogenesis. Finally, we show that oleate specifically increases SREBP-1 nuclear accumulation, suggesting a central role for oleate in SREBP-1 signaling activity.
Evaluation of NxTAG Respiratory Pathogen Panel and Comparison with xTAG Respiratory Viral Panel Fast v2 and Film Array Respiratory Panel for Detecting Respiratory Pathogens in Nasopharyngeal Aspirates and Swine/Avian-Origin Influenza A Subtypes in Culture Isolates
Authors: Chan K. H. , To K. K. W. , Li P. T. W. , Wong T. L. , Zhang R. , Chik K. K. H. , Chan G. , Yip C. C. Y. , Chen H. L. , Hung I. F. N. , Chan J. F. W. , Yuen K. Y.
Published: August 2017

This study evaluated a new multiplex kit, Luminex NxTAG Respiratory Pathogen Panel, for respiratory pathogens and compared it with xTAG RVP Fast v2 and FilmArray Respiratory Panel using nasopharyngeal aspirate specimens and culture isolates of different swine/avian-origin influenza A subtypes (H2N2, H5N1, H7N9, H5N6, and H9N2). NxTAG RPP gave sensitivity of 95.2%, specificity of 99.6%, PPV of 93.5%, and NPV of 99.7%. NxTAG RPP, xTAG RVP, and FilmArray RP had highly concordant performance among each other for the detection of respiratory pathogens. The mean analytic sensitivity (TCID50/ml) of NxTAG RPP, xTAG RVP, and FilmArray RP for detection of swine/avian-origin influenza A subtype isolates was 0.7, 41.8, and 0.8, respectively. All three multiplex assays correctly typed and genotyped the influenza viruses, except for NxTAG RRP that could not distinguish H3N2 from H3N2v. Further investigation should be performed if H3N2v is suspected to be the cause of disease. Sensitive and specific laboratory diagnosis of all influenza A viruses subtypes is especially essential in certain epidemic regions, such as Southeast Asia. The results of this study should help clinical laboratory professionals to be aware of the different performances of commercially available molecular multiplex RT-PCR assays that are commonly adopted in many clinical diagnostic laboratories.
Persistent Unexplained Dyspnea: A Case of Hepatopulmonary Syndrome
Authors: Campanile Alfonso , Colombo Alessandro , Del Pinto Maurizio , Cavallini Claudio
Published: August 2017

Regarding a patient with dyspnea, the history and physical examination often lead to the correct diagnosis. In some circumstances, when more than one underlying disease is present, the diagnostic process can be more challenging. We describe an unusual case of dyspnea and persistent hypoxemia related to a hepatopulmonary syndrome in a 53-year-old patient with known heart failure and chronic liver disease. Initially managed with intravenous diuretic therapy, due to signs of lung and peripheral congestion, our patient did not improve as expected; therefore we performed more advanced studies with a chest-abdomen CT scan and a right heart catheterization. They showed, respectively, no signs of parenchymal and vasculature lung disease, a cirrhotic liver disease, splenomegaly, signs of portal hypertension, and high cardiac output with normal pulmonary vascular resistance. These results, along with the association of hypoxemia and chronic liver disease, suggested a hepatopulmonary syndrome. The diagnosis was confirmed by the demonstration of an intrapulmonary vascular dilatation with right to left shunt during a microbubble transthoracic echocardiography and a lung perfusion scan. Liver transplantation is the only successful treatment for this syndrome; however, the patient became soon unsuitable for this strategy, due to a rapid clinical deterioration.
Car Detection from Low-Altitude UAV Imagery with the Faster R-CNN
Authors: Xu Yongzheng , Yu Guizhen , Wang Yunpeng , Wu Xinkai , Ma Yalong
Published: August 2017

UAV based traffic monitoring holds distinct advantages over traditional traffic sensors, such as loop detectors, as UAVs have higher mobility, wider field of view, and less impact on the observed traffic. For traffic monitoring from UAV images, the essential but challenging task is vehicle detection. This paper extends the framework of Faster R-CNN for car detection from low-altitude UAV imagery captured over signalized intersections. Experimental results show that Faster R-CNN can achieve promising car detection results compared with other methods. Our tests further demonstrate that Faster R-CNN is robust to illumination changes and cars’ in-plane rotation. Besides, the detection speed of Faster R-CNN is insensitive to the detection load, that is, the number of detected cars in a frame; therefore, the detection speed is almost constant for each frame. In addition, our tests show that Faster R-CNN holds great potential for parking lot car detection. This paper tries to guide the readers to choose the best vehicle detection framework according to their applications. Future research will be focusing on expanding the current framework to detect other transportation modes such as buses, trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles.
Demineralized Freeze-Dried Bovine Cortical Bone: Its Potential for Guided Bone Regeneration Membrane
Authors: Kamadjaja David B. , Harijadi Achmad , Soesilawati Pratiwi , Wahyuni Eny , Maulidah Nurul , Fauzi Akhsanal , Rah Ayu Fika , Simanjuntak Roberto , Soesanto R. , Asmara Djodi , Rizqiawan Andra , Agus Peter , Pramono Coen
Published: August 2017

Background. Bovine pericardium collagen membrane (BPCM) had been widely used in guided bone regeneration (GBR) whose manufacturing process usually required chemical cross-linking to prolong its biodegradation. However, cross-linking of collagen fibrils was associated with poorer tissue integration and delayed vascular invasion. Objective. This study evaluated the potential of bovine cortical bone collagen membrane for GBR by evaluating its antigenicity potential, cytotoxicity, immune and tissue response, and biodegradation behaviors. Material and Methods. Antigenicity potential of demineralized freeze-dried bovine cortical bone membrane (DFDBCBM) was done with histology-based anticellularity evaluation, while cytotoxicity was analyzed using MTT Assay. Evaluation of immune response, tissue response, and biodegradation was done by randomly implanting DFDBCBM and BPCM in rat’s subcutaneous dorsum. Samples were collected at 2, 5, and 7 days and 7, 14, 21, and 28 days for biocompatibility and tissue response-biodegradation study, respectively. Result. DFDBCBM, histologically, showed no retained cells; however, it showed some level of in vitro cytotoxicity. In vivo study exhibited increased immune response to DFDBCBM in early healing phase; however, normal tissue response and degradation rate were observed up to 4 weeks after DFDBCBM implantation. Conclusion. Demineralized freeze-dried bovine cortical bone membrane showed potential for clinical application; however, it needs to be optimized in its biocompatibility to fulfill all requirements for GBR membrane.