bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ancient Binding Spells, Amulets and Matt 16.18–19: Revisiting August Dell's Proposal a Century Later
Authors: Kim Seon Yong
Published: May 2016

The goal of this essay is to reopen the unfortunately unrefined but still illuminating proposal of August Dell a century ago – a proposal to read the motif of ‘bind and unbind’ in Matt 16.19 against the backdrop of ancient magical conventions – and to corroborate this hypothesis with philological precision and contextualisation. The present study seeks to demonstrate how central the motif of ‘bind and unbind’ was to most binding spells and amulets, and how the verbs λύειν and δέειν and their cognates might have evoked the conventions of binding magic when heard in religious and ritual contexts. We see Matt 16.19 as a literary reappropriation of a typical binding spell, crafted to highlight Peter's authority to ‘bind’ and ‘break’ whatever entities he should choose. Jesus' guarantee that he/God will ‘unbind’ whatever target Peter ‘unties' is to be understood as a clear indication that Peter is endowed with an invincible potency over every other spiritual entity, symbolised by the power to break any ‘binding’ spell. The security of the church against malevolent and harmful spiritual entities is further guaranteed by Christ's promise, if read in ancient binding magical conventions: Christ will give Peter the key of the kingdom of heaven so that Peter as the key-bearer may become a figure who can channel the full potency of the keyed object.
Adaptive Predictive Variable Structure Filter for Attitude Synchronization Estimation
Authors: Cao Lu , Li Junqiang , Han Lei , Li Hengnian
Published: May 2016

In this paper, a novel Predictive Variable Structure Filter (PVSF) and its adaptive deformation (APVSF) are presented for attitude synchronisation during Satellite Formation Flying (SFF). The PVSF is proposed based on the variable structure control concept and applied to any nonlinear system with model errors. The model errors in the PVSF need not satisfy the assumption of Gaussian white noise; therefore, it has advantages in dealing with various kinds of uncertainties, parameter variations or noises. Then, the APVSF is also presented to adjust the smoothing boundary layer of PVSF by minimising the Mean-Square Error (MSE). Simulations are performed to demonstrate the accuracy, robustness, and stability of the proposed methodologies for the attitude synchronisation estimation of the SFF system.
A Cognitive Perspective for Understanding and Training	Assertiveness
Authors: Vagos Paula , Pereira Anabela
Published: May 2016

Abstract. Assertiveness has for long been considered an optimal way of expressing oneself while at the same time maintaining and/or enhancing social rewards, leading to the conclusion that it should be promoted as an intra and interpersonal protective factor. Yet, few researchers have tried to provide a comprehensive model on assertiveness that may better sustain why and how to train it. We propose a cognitive model for explaining how assertiveness comes to be enacted and maintained, considering the activation of previous individual schemas, how they influence the processing of social cues, which in turn influence the interactive activation of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral assertive products. The assertive behavior in turn prompts reactions from the interaction partner. This interpersonal exchange will serve to confirm previous schemas and make them more accessible when facing future social events. We further review previous findings on several assumptions involved in this model and propose how these findings can sustain cognitive-behavioral approaches to assertive training, building on the premises that the intrapersonal psychological functioning is manifested in interpersonal observed behaviors. Subsequently, new directions for the study and training of assertiveness based on a social information-processing framework are discussed, also considering the current social challenges and contexts that we, as human beings, must face.
Observation of the quantum Hall effect in δ-doped SrTiO3
Authors: Matsubara Y. , Takahashi K. S. , Bahramy M. S. , Kozuka Y. , Maryenko D. , Falson J. , Tsukazaki A. , Tokura Y. , Kawasaki M.
Published: May 2016

The quantum Hall effect is a macroscopic quantum phenomenon in a two-dimensional electron system. The two-dimensional electron system in SrTiO3 has sparked a great deal of interest, mainly because of the strong electron correlation effects expected from the 3d orbitals. Here we report the observation of the quantum Hall effect in a dilute La-doped SrTiO3-two-dimensional electron system, fabricated by metal organic molecular-beam epitaxy. The quantized Hall plateaus are found to be solely stemming from the low Landau levels with even integer-filling factors, ν=4 and 6 without any contribution from odd ν’s. For ν=4, the corresponding plateau disappears on decreasing the carrier density. Such peculiar behaviours are proposed to be due to the crossing between the Landau levels originating from the two subbands composed of d orbitals with different effective masses. Our findings pave a way to explore unprecedented quantum phenomena in d-electron systems.
Pharmacokinetically guided algorithm of 5-fluorouracil dosing, a reliable strategy of precision chemotherapy for solid tumors: a meta-analysis
Authors: Fang Luo , Xin Wenxiu , Ding Haiying , Zhang Yiwen , Zhong Like , Luo Hong , Li Jingjing , Yang Yunshan , Huang Ping
Published: May 2016

Precision medicine characterizes a new era of cancer care and provides each patient with the right drug at the right dose and time. However, the practice of precision dosing is hampered by a lack of smart dosing algorithms. A pharmacokinetically guided (PKG) dosing algorithm is considered to be the leading strategy for precision chemotherapy, although the effects of PKG dosing are not completely confirmed. Hence, we conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of the PKG algorithm of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) dosing on patients with solid tumors. A comprehensive retrieval was performed to identify all of the prospective controlled studies that compared the body surface area (BSA)-based algorithm with the PKG algorithm of 5-FU in patients with solid tumors. Overall, four studies with 504 patients were included. The PKG algorithm significantly improved the objective response rate of 5-FU-based chemotherapy compared with the BSA-based algorithm. Furthermore, PKG dosing markedly decreased the risk of total grade 3/4 adverse drug reactions, especially those related to hematological toxicity. Overall, the PKG algorithm may serve as a reliable strategy for individualized dosing of 5-FU.
Three proliferating cell nuclear antigen homologues from Metallosphaera sedula form a head-to-tail heterotrimer
Authors: Iwata Fumiya , Hirakawa Hidehiko , Nagamune Teruyuki
Published: May 2016

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is a sliding clamp that plays a key role in DNA metabolism. Genome sequence analysis has revealed that some crenarchaea possess three PCNA genes in their genome, but it has been reported that three PCNAs do not always form a unique heterotrimer composed of one of each molecule. The thermoacidophilic archaeon, Metallosphaera sedula, has three PCNA homologue genes. Here, we demonstrated that the three PCNA homologues, MsePCNA1, MsePCNA2 and MsePCNA3, exclusively form a heterotrimer in a stepwise fashion; MsePCNA1 and MsePCNA2 form a heterodimer and then MsePCNA3 binds to the heterodimer. We determined that the dissociation constants between MsePCNA1 and MsePCNA2 and between MsePCNA3 and the MsePCNA1:MsePCNA2 heterodimer are 0.29 and 43 nM, respectively. Moreover, the MsePCNA1, MsePCNA2 and MsePCNA3 heterotrimer stimulated M. sedula DNA ligase 1 activity, suggesting that the heterotrimer works as a DNA sliding clamp in the organism. The stable and stepwise heterotrimerization of M. sedula PCNA homologues would be useful to generate functional protein-based materials such as artificial multi-enzyme complexes, functional hydrogels and protein fibres, which have recently been achieved by protein self-assembly.
Full characterization of an attosecond pulse generated using an infrared driver
Authors: Zhang Chunmei , Brown Graham G. , Kim Kyung Taec , Villeneuve D. M. , Corkum P. B.
Published: May 2016

The physics of attosecond pulse generation requires using infrared driving wavelength to reach the soft X-rays. However, with longer driving wavelength, the harmonic conversion efficiency drops significantly. It makes the conventional attosecond pulse measurement using streaking very difficult due to the low photoionization cross section in the soft X-rays region. In-situ measurement was developed for precisely this purpose. We use in-situ measurement to characterize, in both space and time, an attosecond pulse produced by ultrafast wavefront rotation of a 1.8 μm fundamental beam. We confirm what models suggest – that each beamlet is an isolated attosecond pulse in the time domain. We get almost constant flat wavefront curvature through the whole photon energy range. The measurement method is scalable to the soft X-ray spectral region.
Donor CD47 controls T cell alloresponses and is required for tolerance induction following hepatocyte allotransplantation
Authors: Zhang Mingyou , Wang Hui , Tan Shulian , Navarro-Alvarez Nalu , Zheng Yang , Yang Yong-Guang
Published: May 2016

CD47-deficient hepatocyte transplantation induces rapid innate immune cell activation and subsequent associated graft loss in syngeneic recipients. However, the role of donor CD47 in regulation of T-cell alloresponses is poorly understood. We addressed this question by assessing OVA-specific immune responses in mice following hepatocyte transplantation from CD47-competent or -deficient OVA-transgenic donors. Compared to sham-operated controls, intrasplenic transplantation of CD47-deficient OVA+ hepatocytes significantly accelerated rejection of OVA+ skin grafted 7 days after hepatocyte transplantation. In contrast, mice receiving CD47-competent OVA+ hepatocytes showed prolonged and even indefinite survival of OVA+ skin allografts. T cells from mice receiving CD47-deficient, but not CD47-competent, OVA+ hepatocytes showed significantly enhanced responses to OVA+ stimulators compared to sham-operated controls. In contrast to the production of tolerogenic cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10) in the recipients of CD47-competent hepatocytes, mice receiving CD47-deficient hepatocytes showed elevated production of IFN-γ and IL-1α. Moreover, significant expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells was detected in the recipients of CD47-competent hepatocytes, which was required for tolerance induction in these mice. Thus, donor CD47 plays an important role in the control of T-cell alloresponses and tolerance induction following hepatocyte transplantation. Our data also suggest that intrasplenic hepatocyte transplantation may provide a means to induce allograft tolerance.
High-fidelity spherical cholesteric liquid crystal Bragg reflectors generating unclonable patterns for secure authentication
Authors: Geng Yong , Noh JungHyun , Drevensek-Olenik Irena , Rupp Romano , Lenzini Gabriele , Lagerwall Jan P. F.
Published: May 2016

Monodisperse cholesteric liquid crystal microspheres exhibit spherically symmetric Bragg reflection, generating, via photonic cross communication, dynamically tuneable multi-coloured patterns. These patterns, uniquely defined by the particular sphere arrangement, could render cholesteric microspheres very useful in countless security applications, as tags to identify and authenticate their carriers, mainly physical objects or persons. However, the optical quality of the cholesteric droplets studied so far is unsatisfactory, especially after polymerisation, a step required for obtaining durable samples that can be used for object identification. We show that a transition from droplets to shells solves all key problems, giving rise to sharp patterns and excellent optical quality even after polymerisation, the polymerised shells sustaining considerable mechanical deformation. Moreover, we demonstrate that, counter to prior expectation, cross communication takes place even between non-identical shells. This opens additional communication channels that add significantly to the complexity and unique character of the generated patterns.
A Versatile Multiple Target Detection System Based on DNA Nano-assembled Linear FRET Arrays
Authors: Li Yansheng , Du Hongwu , Wang Wenqian , Zhang Peixun , Xu Liping , Wen Yongqiang , Zhang Xueji
Published: May 2016

DNA molecules have been utilized both as powerful synthetic building blocks to create nanoscale architectures and as inconstant programmable templates for assembly of biosensors. In this paper, a versatile, scalable and multiplex detection system is reported based on an extending fluorescent resonance energy transfer (FRET) cascades on a linear DNA assemblies. Seven combinations of three kinds of targets are successfully detected through the changes of fluorescence spectra because of the three-steps FRET or non-FRET continuity mechanisms. This nano-assembled FRET-based nanowire is extremely significant for the development of rapid, simple and sensitive detection system. The method used here could be extended to a general platform for multiplex detection through more-step FRET process.
Graphene grown in situ on TiO2 hollow nanocrystals for advanced photocatalysis and lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Liang Jicai , Wang Juan , Li Yi , Zhou Meixin , Wang Xiaofeng , Li Xiangji , Yu Kaifeng
Published: May 2016

In order to improve photocatalytic and lithium ion battery performance, we prepare hollow nanocrystal structures using a one-step hydrothermal method.
A facile one-step folic acid modified partially oxidized graphene for high sensitivity tumor cell sensing
Authors: Gao Wenyu , Zheng Qing , Shen Zongxu , Wu Hao , Ma Yuehui , Guan Weijun , Wu Songmei , Yu Yu , Ding Kejian
Published: May 2016

A FA-modified POG cytosensor using a facile one step reaction was endowed with a more sensitive response to folate-expressing tumor cells than those sensors constructed by a two-step reaction.
Determination of isavuconazole in rat plasma by UPLC-MS/MS: application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Liang Bingqing , Yuan Lingjing , Zhan Yunyun , Jin Mi , Gu Ermin , Hu Guoxin
Published: May 2016

Isavuconazole (ISA) is a new generation, broad-spectrum triazole with efficacy against invasive fungal diseases including aspergillosis and mucormycosis.
Enantiomeric two-armed lanthanide-binding tags for complementary effects in paramagnetic NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Lee Michael D. , Dennis Matthew L. , Swarbrick James D. , Graham Bim
Published: May 2016

A new pair of two-armed lanthanide-binding tags provide distinct sets of structural restraints when attached to the same site of a protein.
Imaging the photodissociation dynamics of the methyl radical from the 3s and 3pz Rydberg states
Authors: Marggi Poullain Sonia , Chicharro David V. , Zanchet Alexandre , González Marta G. , Rubio-Lago Luis , Senent María L. , García-Vela Alberto , Bañares Luis
Published: May 2016

The one and two-photon photodissociation dynamics of the methyl radical from the 3s and 3pz Rydberg states have been disentangled.
Fluorescent silver nanoclusters (Ag NCs) in the metal–organic framework MIL-101(Fe) for the catalytic hydrogenation of 4-nitroaniline
Authors: Islam Dewan Azharul , Chakraborty Anindita , Acharya Himadri
Published: May 2016

A fluorescent Ag nanocluster deposited iron based metal organic framework, Ag NC@MIL-101(Fe), was synthesized with significant stability and enhanced catalytic activity towards the heterogeneous reduction of 4-nitroaniline under green and ambient conditions.
Enhancement of anti-tumor immune responses induced by ligand-mediated biomimetic Texosomes
Authors: Wang Zhongyan , Chang Shasha , Zhao Xiuli , Chen Dawei , Li Kexin
Published: May 2016

In order to overcome the immune tolerance and awake the tumor patients’ self immune response, hTERT-HSP70 as a universal tumor antigen is specifically transferred to dendritic cells by DEC205McAb Texosomes as the carriers of a tumor vaccine.
Micro-phase architectural design of fluorinated ethyl cellulose membranes: towards high permeation flux of pervaporation for gasoline desulfurization
Authors: Lu Fuwei , Chen Zhaojun , Du Hui , Sun Deshuai , Xu Xueqin , Kong Ying
Published: May 2016

A micro-phase architecture of a fluorinated ethyl cellulose membrane was induced by the fluorinated side chains, which disturbs the crystallinity region of EC and highly improves the permeation flux of pervaporation.
Highly sensitive piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer operated in air
Authors: Wang Tao , Kobayashi Takeshi , Lee Chengkuo
Published: May 2016

Piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer (pMUT) is gaining increasing research interest. It overcomes the inherent shortcomings of conventional bulk ultrasonic transducers such as acoustic impedance mismatching and poor sensitivity. In addition, pMUT does not require the extremely large input voltage as capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer. Therefore the pMUT is potential to be integrated into portable electronics. A pMUT array operated in air using the lead zirconate titanate (PZT) thin film polled by high voltage pulses is realised and fully investigated. The high voltage pulses are found to be more effective for PZT poling, where the piezoelectric constant d31 is elevated to 105 pm/V. Benefited from such high performance PZT thin film and optimised structure, the fabricated pMUT (500 × 300 µm) achieves a displacement sensitivity of 807 nm/V at its resonant frequency (482 kHz) without DC offset. Compared with previously reported PZT pMUTs, the sensitivity is superior to them even with a smaller membrane. The in‐air transmitting performance is also evaluated. A single pMUT element is able to generate 63.7 dB sound pressure level at 10 mm in air with only 2 V input. The proposed high performance pMUT shows its promise for practical applications in portable electronics.
Dynamical heat transport amplification in a far-field thermal transistor of VO2 excited with a laser of modulated intensity
Authors: Ordonez-Miranda Jose , Ezzahri Younès , Drevillon Jérémie , Joulain Karl
Published: May 2016

Far-field radiative heat transport in a thermal transistor made up of a vanadium dioxide base excited with a laser of modulated intensity is analytically studied and optimized. This is done by solving the equation of energy conservation for the steady-state and modulated components of the temperature and heat fluxes that the base exchanges with the collector and emitter. The thermal bistability of VO2 is used to find an explicit condition on the laser intensity required to maximize these heat fluxes to values higher than the incident flux. For a 1 μm-thick base heated with a modulation frequency of 0.5 Hz, it is shown that both the DC and AC components of the heat fluxes are about 4 times the laser intensity, while the AC temperature remains an order of magnitude smaller than the DC one at around 343 K. Higher AC heat fluxes are obtained for thinner bases and/or lower frequencies. Furthermore, we find that out of the bistability temperatures associated with the dielectric-to-metal and metal-to-dielectric transitions of VO2, the amplification of the collector-to-base and base-to-emitter heat fluxes is still possible, but at modulation frequencies lower than 0.1 Hz.
Nonlinear time-series analysis of current signal in cathodic contact glow discharge electrolysis
Authors: Allagui Anis , Rojas Andrea Espinel , Bonny Talal , Elwakil Ahmed S. , Abdelkareem Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2016

In the standard two-electrode configuration employed in electrolytic process, when the control dc voltage is brought to a critical value, the system undergoes a transition from conventional electrolysis to contact glow discharge electrolysis (CGDE), which has also been referred to as liquid-submerged micro-plasma, glow discharge plasma electrolysis, electrode effect, electrolytic plasma, etc. The light-emitting process is associated with the development of an irregular and erratic current time-series which has been arbitrarily labelled as “random,” and thus dissuaded further research in this direction. Here, we examine the current time-series signals measured in cathodic CGDE configuration in a concentrated KOH solution at different dc bias voltages greater than the critical voltage. We show that the signals are, in fact, not random according to the NIST SP. 800-22 test suite definition. We also demonstrate that post-processing low-pass filtered sequences requires less time than the native as-measured sequences, suggesting a superposition of low frequency chaotic fluctuations and high frequency behaviors (which may be produced by more than one possible source of entropy). Using an array of nonlinear time-series analyses for dynamical systems, i.e., the computation of largest Lyapunov exponents and correlation dimensions, and re-construction of phase portraits, we found that low-pass filtered datasets undergo a transition from quasi-periodic to chaotic to quasi-hyper-chaotic behavior, and back again to chaos when the voltage controlling-parameter is increased. The high frequency part of the signals is discussed in terms of highly nonlinear turbulent motion developed around the working electrode.
In-plane current-driven spin-orbit torque switching in perpendicularly magnetized films with enhanced thermal tolerance
Authors: Wu Di , Yu Guoqiang , Shao Qiming , Li Xiang , Wu Hao , Wong Kin L. , Zhang Zongzhi , Han Xiufeng , Khalili Amiri Pedram , Wang Kang L.
Published: May 2016

We study spin-orbit-torque (SOT)-driven magnetization switching in perpendicularly magnetized Ta/Mo/Co40Fe40B20 (CoFeB)/MgO films. The thermal tolerance of the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) is enhanced, and the films sustain the PMA at annealing temperatures of up to 430 °C, due to the ultra-thin Mo layer inserted between the Ta and CoFeB layers. More importantly, the Mo insertion layer also allows for the transmission of the spin current generated in the Ta layer due to spin Hall effect, which generates a damping-like SOT and is able to switch the perpendicular magnetization. When the Ta layer is replaced by a Pt layer, i.e., in a Pt/Mo/CoFeB/MgO multilayer, the direction of the SOT-induced damping-like effective field becomes opposite because of the opposite sign of spin Hall angle in Pt, which indicates that the SOT-driven switching is dominated by the spin current generated in the Ta or Pt layer rather than the Mo layer. Quantitative characterization through harmonic measurements reveals that the large SOT effective field is preserved for high annealing temperatures. This work provides a route to applying SOT in devices requiring high temperature processing steps during the back-end-of-line processes.
Mechanical properties of WC-based hardmetals bonded with iron alloys – a review
Authors: Ojo-Kupoluyi O. J. , Tahir S. M. , Baharudin B. T. H. T. , Azmah Hanim M. A. , Anuar M. S.
Published: May 2016

Growing concerns over the use of cobalt as binder for WC-based hardmetals has directed research efforts towards finding a suitable alternative binder offering comparable or even superior properties than those found in WC–Co hardmetals. Complete substitution of cobalt by iron alloys has been extensively explored in several studies with significant improvements in mechanical properties of WC bonded with Fe alloys when carbon content addition is strictly controlled in powder composition. Asides from the commonly studied hardness and fracture toughness properties, transverse rupture strength property of this composites has also been observed to hold future promise with further development in the microstructural parameters such as porosity during sintering. This article reviews the progress in the mechanical properties of WC–Fe alloys hardmetals.
Investigation of low current gas tungsten arc welding using split anode calorimetry
Authors: Egerland S. , Colegrove P. , Williams S.
Published: May 2016

Most previous split anode calorimetry research has applied high weld currents which exhibit pseudo Gaussian distributions of arc current and power density. In this paper we investigate low current arcs and show that both the current and power distributions have minima in the centre – varying significantly from the expected Gaussian profile. This was postulated due to the formation of the arc with the copper anode and the tungsten cathode. Furthermore, a number of parameters were varied including the step size between measurements, anode thickness and anode surface condition as well as cathode type and tip geometry. The step size between measurements significantly influenced the distribution profile and the anode thickness needed to be above 7 mm to obtain consistent results.
Frizzled to finance: one PhD’s path from a Drosophila lab to Wall Street
Authors: Taylor Job
Published: May 2016

An equity research analyst’s job is to determine whether the price of a stock is likely to go up or down. For science-based businesses, particularly biotechnology companies, a PhD in the life sciences can be very helpful in making this determination. I transitioned from a postdoc position to working in equity research. Here I present information on how I made the transition, an overview of the day-to-day activities of an analyst, and thoughts on how to prepare to look for a job in finance. There are significant positives to working on Wall Street, including exposure to cutting-edge clinical/translational research, access to some of the best scientists in the world, a dynamic work environment, and compensation that generally exceeds academic salaries. This comes at the cost of some independence and the satisfaction of being able to call oneself a scientist.
The Hebrew Bible as Literature
Authors: Linafelt Tod
Published: May 2016

The Hebrew Bible, or Christian Old Testament, can be celebrated as among the classics of world literature. The stories of Jacob and David present the earliest surviving examples of literary characters whose development the reader follows over the length of a lifetime. There are also examples of lyric poetry, from the praise and lament of the Psalms to the double entendres in the love of poetry of the Song of Songs. The Hebrew Bible as Literature: A Very Short Introduction describes the Bible’s two primary literary modes—narrative and poetry—foregrounding the nuances of plot, character, metaphor, structure and design, and intertextual allusions.
What is the role of concentrated insulin in diabetes management?
Authors: Mospan Cortney M.
Published: May 2016

Two concentrated analog insulins, long-acting insulin glargine U-300 (Toujeo) and rapid-acting insulin lispro (Humalog U-200), were recently approved by the FDA. Providers must be aware of clinical differences in these new product formulations compared with their nonconcentrated formulations, so that they can select appropriate patients for these products and minimize drug errors.
Association Between Osteoporosis/Osteopenia and Vestibular Dysfunction in South Korean Adults
Authors: Park Ryoung Jin , Kim Yang Hyun
Published: May 2016

Objective:

The associations of osteoporosis/osteopenia with vestibular dysfunction have not been well evaluated and conflicting results have been reported. The purpose of this study is to examine the relation of low bone mineral density (BMD) with vestibular dysfunction.

Design:

The authors conducted a cross-sectional study in 3579 Korean adults aged 50 years and older who participated in the 2009 to 2010 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. BMD was measured by dual energy X ray absorptiometry. Vestibular dysfunction was evaluated using the modified Romberg test of standing balance on firm and compliant support surfaces. Data were analyzed in 2015. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to compute odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results:

The prevalence of vestibular dysfunction was 4.3 ± 0.5%. After adjustment for potential confounders, the adjusted ORs for vestibular dysfunction based on BMD were 1.00 (reference) for normal BMD, 2.21 (95% CI: 1.08, 4.50) for osteopenia, and 2.47 (95% CI: 1.05, 5.81) for osteoporosis (p < 0.05). We also observed relationships within each age group. The adjusted ORs were as follows: for age <65 years, the values were 1.00 (reference) for normal BMD, 2.91 (95% CI: 1.02, 8.31) for osteopenia, and 2.12 (95% CI: 0.28, 16.14) for osteoporosis (p < 0.05). For age ≥65 years, the values were 1.00 (reference) for normal BMD, 2.17 (95% CI: 0.96, 4.90) for osteopenia, and 2.77 (95% CI: 1.18, 6.47) for osteoporosis (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Osteoporosis or osteopenia were associated with an increased risk of vestibular dysfunction among South Korean adults, especially in older ones.
What Ambulatory Care Managers Need to Know About Examination Room Utilization Measurement and Analysis
Authors: Klarich Mark J. , Rea Ronald W. , Lal Tarun Mohan , Garcia Angel L. , Steffens Fay L.
Published: May 2016

Demand for ambulatory care visits is projected to increase 22% between 2008 and 2025. Given this growth, ambulatory care managers need to proactively plan for efficient use of scarce resources (ie, space, equipment, and staff). One important component of ambulatory care space (the number of examination rooms) is dependent on multiple factors, including variation in demand, hours of operation, scheduling, and staff. The authors (1) outline common data collection methods, (2) highlight analysis and reporting considerations for examination room utilization, and (3) provide a strategic framework for short- and long-term decision making for facility design or renovation.
A Survey of Presbyopic Contact Lens Wearers in a University Setting
Authors: Rueff Erin M. , Varghese Robin Joy , Brack Taylor M. , Downard Danica E. , Bailey Melissa D.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

To determine why presbyopic patients discontinue contact lens wear and describe their opinions of comfort and visual quality with contact lenses.

Methods

A survey assessing current age, gender, contact lens material/design, and opinions of contact lens comfort and visual quality was mailed to 2400 presbyopic patients (age 40 years and older) that have had eye exams in the Ohio State University College of Optometry’s Contact Lens Services over the last 4 years.

Results

A total of 496 surveys were analyzed. The mean age of survey respondents was 57 ± 9 years, and 68% of the sample was female. Permanent discontinuation of contact lens wear was reported by 15%. No association was found between contact lens discontinuation and age (p = 0.7), gender (p = 0.2), age of beginning contact lens wear (p = 0.1), or contact lens material (p = 0.1). Poor vision (38%), discomfort (34%), convenience (20%), and cost (6%) were the primary reported reasons for discontinuation. There was no difference between the proportion of subjects reporting “poor vision” as their primary discontinuation reason and those reporting “discomfort” (p = 0.7). Discontinued wearers had a worse overall opinion of their distance (p = 0.03), intermediate (p = 0.01), and near vision (p = 0.002) compared to subjects who were still wearing their contact lenses.

Conclusions

Discomfort has been reported as the primary reason for contact lens discontinuation. In this presbyopic population, dissatisfaction with vision and discomfort were reported equally as often as primary reasons for discontinuation. As well, subjects who ceased contact lens wear had worse overall opinions of their vision at all distances than current contact lens wearers. The results of this survey suggest that presbyopes have unique demands and opinions related to contact lens wear.
Ultrasound of Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Tendon Subluxation in a Tennis Player
Authors: Spicer Paul J. , Romesberg Amanda , Kamineni Srinath , Beaman Francesca D.
Published: May 2016

Wrist pain is common among competitive tennis players. Subluxation of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendon has gained recognition as a cause of ulnar-side wrist pain in athletes. In tennis, the wrist is forcibly flexed, supinated, and ulnar deviated. These repetitive motions stress the ECU tendon stabilizers allowing tendon subluxation from the ulnar groove, especially in cases of anatomic variations such as a shallow groove. We present the presurgical and postsurgical imaging findings of recurrent ECU tendon subluxation in an elite tennis player.
A reference dataset of 5.4 million phased human variants validated by genetic inheritance from sequencing a three-generation 17-member pedigree
Authors: Eberle Michael A. , Fritzilas Epameinondas , Krusche Peter , Källberg Morten , Moore Benjamin L. , Bekritsky Mitchell A. , Iqbal Zamin , Chuang Han-Yu , Humphray Sean J. , Halpern Aaron L. , Kruglyak Semyon , Margulies Elliott H. , McVean Gil , Bentley David R.
Published: May 2016

Improvement of variant calling in next-generation sequence data requires a comprehensive, genome-wide catalogue of high-confidence variants called in a set of genomes for use as a benchmark. We generated deep, whole-genome sequence data of seventeen individuals in a three-generation pedigree and called variants in each genome using a range of currently available algorithms. We used haplotype transmission information to create a phased “platinum” variant catalogue of 4.7 million single nucleotide variants (SNVs) plus 0.7 million small (1-50bp) insertions and deletions (indels) that are consistent with the pattern of inheritance in the parents and eleven children of this pedigree. Platinum genotypes are highly concordant with the current catalogue of the National Institute of Standards and Technology for both SNVs (>99.99%) and indels (99.92%), and add a validated truth catalogue that has 26% more SNVs and 45% more indels. Analysis of 334,652 SNVs that were consistent between informatics pipelines yet inconsistent with haplotype transmission (“non-platinum”) revealed that the majority of these variants arede novoand cell-line mutations or reside within previously unidentified duplications and deletions. The reference materials from this study are a resource for objective assessment of the accuracy of variant calls throughout genomes.
Study on the corrosion of copper alloy by friction stir surface processing
Authors: Weiwei Song , Xu Xiaojing , Zuo Dunwen , Wang Jianli
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the modification of surface of a copper alloy by friction stir surface processing (FSSP).

Design/methodology/approach

The metallographic condition of the surface modification was observed using microscopy. Electrochemical corrosion tests were carried out on the modified surface and the corroded surface was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Findings

The test results showed that FSSP resulted in refinement of the surface grains of the copper alloy. The degree of refinement was increased with rotation speed and increased in the descending distance of the stirring tool. The corrosion resistance of the modified surface was superior to the base metal except for the surface generated by a rotation speed of 800 rpm and a descending distance 0.1 mm. For the surface modification of the rotation speed of 800 rpm, its corrosion resistance was lower than for the other two rotation speeds. When the rotation speed is specified, the corrosion resistance is improved with increased descending distance. When the descending distance is specified, the corrosion resistance is improved with the rotation speed.

Originality/value

In this study, it was confirmed that the corrosion resistance of the surface modification was best at the rotation speed 1200 rpm and descending distance 0.2 mm.
Fabrication of anodic alumina oxide templates in a mixture solution of 1,3-propanediol and H3PO4
Authors: Ma Di , Li Shubai , Xu Longgui , Hu Xiuying , Zhang Guohua , Jia Chuanqi , Yuan Xinchao
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to study the anodization of aluminum in a mixture solution of 1,3-propanediol solutions and 0.4 mol l−1 H3PO4 at a low temperature.

Design/methodology/approach

The morphology and composition of the resulting anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template was characterized by means of a scanning electron microscope in combination with an energy dispersive spectrometer.

Findings

Pore density and pore diameter both were found to be dependent on the temperature of anodization.

Originality/value

The resulting AAO templates exhibited uniform and regular pores with diameters that were significantly smaller than those found in AAO templates anodized at room temperature.
Fracture performance of macro synthetic steel fiber concrete exposed to a sulfate environment
Authors: You Shuang , Ji Hongguang , Liu Juanhong , Song Chenglin , Tang Wendi
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Macro synthetic steel fibers were incorporated into the concrete material as a toughening agent to improve the corrosion and cracking resistances of concrete in a sulfate-containing service environment.

Design/methodology/approach

To study the basic mechanical properties of this system, an accelerated concrete degradation test was designed to evaluate the influence of the sulfate ions on the concrete. A three-point bending test was carried out in the laboratory to evaluate the fracture toughness. The thickness of the damaged concrete layer and changes of microstructure of the degraded concrete were monitored by using ultrasound, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction detection methods.

Findings

The results showed that compared to the performance of ordinary concrete, in an exposure environment containing sulfate ions, the structure compactness of macro synthetic steel fiber concrete was improved, degradation resistance to the sulfate solution was enhanced and the fracture resistance performance was improved significantly.

Originality/value

The thickness of the degradation layer on the macro synthetic steel fiber concrete was less than a half of that of ordinary concrete in the sulfate environment, and was generally unchanged with increase in the sulfate concentration. Through micro-structural analysis, it was confirmed that macro synthetic steel fiber improved the compactness of the concrete structure, inhibiting access of sulfate ions to the interior of the concrete and thereby reducing the degree of sulfate degradation to the concrete.
Integrating Chinese cultural philosophies on the effects of employee friendliness, helpfulness and respectfulness on customer satisfaction
Authors: Liu Matthew Tingchi , Yan Li , Phau Ian , Perez Andrea , Teah Min
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the main and interactive effects of three employee attributes, namely, employee friendliness, helpfulness and respectfulness, on customer satisfaction in Mainland China.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 × 2 × 2 between-subjects experimental design enabled an eight-scenario study depicting a service experience manipulated by employee friendliness (high/low), helpfulness (high/low) and respectfulness (high/low).

Findings

It is found that the effect of respectfulness has the strongest impact on customer satisfaction. Customer satisfaction generated by helpfulness is higher when respectfulness is high rather than low, while the interaction between helpfulness and friendliness is not found, even though helpfulness exerts a stronger effect than friendliness on customer satisfaction. Customer satisfaction is also maximized when all three positive interpersonal attributes all jointly presented. Interestingly, the absence of respectfulness tends to trigger a negative effect, while the display of friendliness results in a positive effect.

Research limitations/implications

Beyond the joint positive effects on service outcomes, different interaction patterns reveal that the display of friendliness is desirable and beneficial to enhance interpersonal outcome. However, the communication of respect is crucial, and, as such, managers and employees need to strive for a good balance on how to demonstrate these behaviours in critical moments such as service recovery. The findings from relative and interactive effects of three employee attributes are new in the literature and provide significant theoretical and managerial contributions for both researchers and managers.

Originality/value

This study takes the first step in decoding the cultural meaning of employee attributes through integrating Chinese traditional philosophy, Li (i.e. politeness), into a specific service setting by examining its comparative effects with other attributes.
The simple rules of a complex world: William Rand and Roland Rust
Authors: Rand William , Rust Roland T.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this commentary is to explain that it is not useful to unnecessarily complicate a model. Striving for realism for its own sake does not advance understanding; however, making sure that a model provides valid insights is a useful goal.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors advocate that a standard should exist based on whether experts in a field think that a particular mechanism is necessary for the model to achieve the goals of validity and sufficiency.

Findings

The authors find that critiques that do not offer a more valid alternative model do not necessarily advance the production of science.

Practical implications

Decision makers need to understand the assumptions and limitations of the models that they are using, but they should also be educated on the basic concepts of modeling literacy, and develop an understanding that all models are necessarily incomplete, as to make a model a perfect reflection of the real world would not provide insightful generalizations.

Originality/value

Although the original paper provides some additional cases that should be explored in understanding the diffusion of information, the authors extend this paper by providing a standard that explains when it is necessary to examine additional extensions and when the original (less complex) model is sufficient.
Working smart to win back lost customers the role of coping choices and justice mechanisms
Authors: Liu Annie H. , Chugh Richa , Noel Gould Albert
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how the cognitive appraisals, coping choices and behavioral responses by business-to-business (B2B) sales professionals confronting the acutely stressful experience of losing a customer, and their pursuit of justice in the win-back process, influences reacquisition outcomes. The paper further examines the role of sales experience as a moderator between coping choices and successful win back.

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 98 critical incidents were reported by sales professionals from B2B firms across various industries. NVivo 9, content analysis and logistic regression were used to analyze the data.

Findings

The results show that problem-focused coping (PFC) and pro-active responses positively affect win-back outcome. By contrast, emotion-focused coping (EFC) and re-active responses have a negative association with customer reacquisition. The findings also show that sales experience moderates the relationship between levels of EFC and win-back outcomes. Specifically, for sales professionals with low levels of EFC, sales experience helps improve chances of winning back lost customers. But for sales professionals using higher levels of EFC, more sales experience decreases win-back probability. Additionally, the findings show that procedural, interactional and distributive justice all contribute to successful customer reacquisition.

Research limitations/implications

The few published studies of how B2B sales professionals deal with customer defections reveal a mixture of bereavement and drivenness in striving for new accounts. The authors’ focus and findings on the use of PFC and EFC strategies, justice mechanisms and the uneven role of experience in responding to this stressful context suggests that there is much to be gained from additional research. Specifically, probes into how sales professionals may be inadvertently skewed to EFC behaviors by either overly simplistic training systems, learning- versus performance-based incentives or their experience with prior customer defections.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the importance of PFC strategies and the delivery of procedural, interactional and distributive justice strategies to productively adapt to customer defections, activate switch back behavior and win back lost customers. Sales force training systems need to address the increased churning in B2B markets and integrate win-back procedures in sales training programs so that sales professionals do not default to EFC and/or strive for new accounts when facing the stress of customer defection.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to customer defection management and sales literature by integrating coping and justice theories in exploring sales professionals’ cognitive appraisals and coping responses to the acute stress of losing a current customer.
Six Sigma in construction: a review of critical success factors
Authors: Siddiqui Siddra Qayyum , Ullah Fahim , Thaheem Muhammad Jamaluddin , Gabriel Hamza Farooq
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims at collecting and reviewing the published literature on the Six Sigma in construction along with its critical success factors (CSFs).

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on literature review. Based on the keyword and semantic search techniques, papers published on the topic of Six Sigma during 2000-2015 are retrieved. Frequency analysis is performed to find out significance of identified CSFs, and zoning is performed based on the product of frequency of appearance and parties affected by the CSFs.

Findings

A total of 69 CSFs are identified as published in the literature. Based on an inclusion criterion of minimum 15 appearances, 22 CSFs are shortlisted for further analysis. Of these CSFs, around 32 per cent fall into red zone (most critical), 50 per cent into yellow and 18 per cent into green zone (least critical).

Research limitations/implications

This work is limited by partial identification of CSFs. Though based on an extensive search, the retrieved CSFs may not be all the published ones. However, more thorough search techniques can be applied to improve upon this work.

Practical implications

The findings can be used to facilitate the decision-making in the context of project success.

Originality/value

This work is an original attempt at gathering Six Sigma CSFs applicable to construction projects. It may be used for further research and development to help ensure project quality and success.
From e-Gov Web SPL to e-Gov Mobile SPL
Authors: Carromeu Camilo , Barroso Paiva Debora , Cagnin Maria Istela
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the motivation and present the evolution from a Software Product Line (SPL) in the e-Gov Web (e-Gov Web SPL) domain to a SPL in the mobile domain (e-Gov Mobile SPL).

Design/methodology/approach

The evolution was supported by the Product Line UML-Based Software Engineering approach and the feature model.

Findings

The authors were able to observe that it is feasible to evolve from a SPL for the Web platform to a SPL for the mobile platform, with the intent to port existing Web applications to mobile platforms such that users can have access to the main information and are able to interact with the most important functionalities of Web applications in a mobile device.

Research limitations/implications

As for the main limitations, the authors can point out the small number of instantiations performed until the moment with the support of the e-Gov Mobile SPL, what prevented the conduction of an empirical study.

Practical implications

Using e-Gov Mobile SPL, it is possible to reduce development time and cost.

Originality/value

The existing SPLs do not worry about supporting the development of mobile applications corresponding to existing Web applications, as it is desirable to have access to the information and main features of these applications in mobile devices. We obtained some e-Gov Mobile SPL instantiations corresponding to e-Gov Web SPL instantiations to attend the demands of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation Unit situated at Campo Grande, MS, Brazil.