bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projections on right and left ideals of endomorphism semiring which are derivations
Authors: Vladeva Dimitrinka
Published: September 2019

The aim of this paper is the investigation of the derivations in an endomorphism semiring of a finite chain. Such semiring can be represented as a simplex and its subsimplices are left ideals of the semiring. We construct projections on these left ideals and prove that they are derivations and also find the maximal subsemirings of the simplex which are the domains of the constructed derivations. Consequently, we obtain some results concerning nilpotent endomorphisms and using well-known result of Stanley we prove that order of semiring of nilpotent endomorphisms is equal to [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the [Formula: see text]th Catalan number. We consider a class of right ideals of the semiring and introduce projections on these ideals which are derivations and also find the maximal subsemirings of the simplex which are the domains of the constructed derivations. For one of these derivations [Formula: see text] and for a fixed endomorphism [Formula: see text] of a considered right ideal, the set of endomorphisms [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is denoted by [Formula: see text]. The last set is a semiring if and only if [Formula: see text] is an idempotent. The number of the semirings [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], is equal to [Formula: see text], which is the [Formula: see text]th Fibonacci number.
Sterically controlled and pH-dependent self-aggregation of synthetic zinc 3-(alkylamino)methylated chlorophyll-a derivatives in aqueous micellar solution
Authors: Watanabe Hiroaki , Nakamura Soichi , Tamiaki Hitoshi
Published: September 2019

Zinc methyl 3-(methyl/ethylamino)methyl-pyropheophorbides-[Formula: see text] were prepared as models of photosynthetically active bacteriochlorophyll-[Formula: see text] possessing the 3[Formula: see text]-hydroxy group. The synthetic methylamino analog predominantly dimerized via two Zn[Formula: see text]N coordination bonds in aqueous Triton X-100 micelles, while the more sterically crowding and less coordinating ethylamino derivative self-aggregated to form large oligomers through single coordination and hydrogen bonds, Zn[Formula: see text]N–H[Formula: see text]O=C-13, similarly as in the natural self-aggregates of bacteriochlorophyll-[Formula: see text]. The artificial self-aggregates were dependent on the aqueous pH, but the dimer was less pH-sensitive and also more tolerant to the additional Triton X-100.
Higgs Mode in Superconductors
Authors: Shimano Ryo , Tsuji Naoto
Published: September 2019

When the continuous symmetry of a physical system is spontaneously broken, two types of collective modes typically emerge: the amplitude and the phase modes of the order-parameter fluctuation. For superconductors, the amplitude mode is referred to most recently as the Higgs mode as it is a condensed-matter analog of a Higgs boson in particle physics. Higgs mode is a scalar excitation of the order parameter, distinct from charge or spin fluctuations, and thus does not couple to electromagnetic fields linearly. This is why the Higgs mode in superconductors has evaded experimental observations for over a half century after the initial theoretical prediction, except for a charge-density-wave coexisting system. With the advance of nonlinear and time-resolved terahertz spectroscopy techniques, however, it has become possible to study the Higgs mode through the nonlinear light–Higgs coupling. In this review, we overview recent progress in the study of the Higgs mode in superconductors.
Virus Impact on Lipids and Membranes
Authors: Ketter Ellen , Randall Glenn
Published: September 2019

Viruses manipulate cellular lipids and membranes at each stage of their life cycle. This includes lipid-receptor interactions, the fusion of viral envelopes with cellular membranes during endocytosis, the reorganization of cellular membranes to form replication compartments, and the envelopment and egress of virions. In addition to the physical interactions with cellular membranes, viruses have evolved to manipulate lipid signaling and metabolism to benefit their replication. This review summarizes the strategies that viruses use to manipulate lipids and membranes at each stage in the viral life cycle.
Experimental Analysis of Total Radiated Power by the Open Energy Meter 2G
Authors: Briccola M. , Giubbini P. , Cascetta F. , Delle Femine A. , Gallo D. , Landi C. , Luiso M.
Published: September 2019

The company e-distribuzione S.p.A (the main Italian electricity distributor) has started in 2017 the massive installation of the second-generation smart electrical energy meters. These smart meters have several new features. In particular, the communication functions have been improved to enhance the reliability of the communication towards the concentrator: in addition to the traditional main PLC channel, a radio module has been added with a transmission around the frequency of 169 MHz. This paper assesses the characteristics of the emission due to this radio module, quantifying the total radiated power. The analyses were performed not only inside an anechoic room, to obtain repeatable results, but also in situations close to the normal operating conditions.
Pain, Physical Function, Radiographic Features, and Quality of Life in Knee Osteoarthritis Agricultural Workers Living in Rural Population
Authors: Nikolic Gordana , Nedeljkovic Biserka , Trajkovic Goran , Rasic Dragisa , Mirkovic Zlatica , Pajovic Slavica , Grbic Rade , Sipetic Sandra , Vujcic Isidora
Published: September 2019

Background. The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between the clinical manifestations, disease severity based on radiography images, functional activity level, and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis in a rural population living in Serbian enclaves in Kosovo, as well as to determine the correlation between the WOMAC and the EQ-5D questionnaire in this population. Method. The cross-sectional study was conducted at the Internal Medicine Clinic, Clinical Hospital Center Pristina-Gracanica, located in Laplje Selo from February to December 2013. One hundred patients with confirmed (American College of Rheumatology criteria) knee osteoarthritis completed the EQ-5D and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaires, rated pain on a visual analogue scale (VAS), and underwent knee radiographic examinations. Result. Most patients were obese with moderate radiographic changes according to the Kellgeren–Lawrence scale and suffered from very severe pain according to the VAS scale. The duration of disease significantly correlated with the WOMAC scores, VAS score, and all of the scores on the EQ-5D, except for mobility. The age of participants showed a similar correlation with the same variables. The patients with higher Kellgren–Lawrence scores (3-4) were significantly older, with a significantly higher body mass index (BMI) and longer duration of disease than patients with lower scores (1-2). Significantly higher VAS, pain/discomfort EQ-5D, and WOMAC pain and function scores were also recorded among patients with more significant radiological changes. The correlations between WOMAC and EQ-5D were satisfactory. Conclusion. The severity of clinical manifestations and radiographic area changes may affect functional ability and the quality of life in knee OA patients living in rural areas, which requires adequate treatment and physical therapy.
Industrial Anomaly Detection and Attack Classification Method Based on Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Lai Yingxu , Zhang Jingwen , Liu Zenghui
Published: September 2019

The massive use of information technology has brought certain security risks to the industrial production process. In recent years, cyber-physical attacks against industrial control systems have occurred frequently. Anomaly detection technology is an essential technical means to ensure the safety of industrial control systems. Considering the shortcomings of traditional methods and to facilitate the timely analysis and location of anomalies, this study proposes a solution based on the deep learning method for industrial traffic anomaly detection and attack classification. We use a convolutional neural network deep learning representation model as the detection model. The original one-dimensional data are mapped using the feature mapping method to make them suitable for model processing. The deep learning method can automatically extract critical features and achieve accurate attack classification. We performed a model evaluation using real network attack data from a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. The experimental results showed that the proposed method met the anomaly detection and attack classification needs of a SCADA system. The proposed method also promotes the application of deep learning methods in industrial anomaly detection.
Clinical and Diagnostic Considerations for Atypical, Adult Onset Presentation of Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis (CRMO)
Authors: Mahady Stacey , Ladani Amit
Published: September 2019

Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) is the most severe form of chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) and is a rare autoinflammatory bone disorder that mostly affects children and adolescents. CRMO is a diagnosis of exclusion, resulting in often-delayed diagnosis with over one year on average from onset of symptoms to time of diagnosis. Initial diagnosis is rare in adults and previously undocumented in the elderly (age greater than 65). We highlight a case of a 74-year-old elderly Caucasian female with a history of palmoplantar pustular psoriasis who presented with pelvic and hip pain. Imaging findings included multiple bony lesions on x-rays, increased uptake in the left side of the pelvis, ileum, proximal sternum, and bilateral medial clavicles on nuclear bone scan. Bone biopsy histologic results of marrow fibrosis and plasma cell infiltrate indicative of chronic inflammation lead to the diagnosis of CRMO. This case highlights that while CRMO is typically a disease with childhood onset, it, while rare, can also present in adults and now has presented in the elderly, remaining an important part of the differential diagnosis of bone pain in adults and the elderly in addition to infectious osteomyelitis and malignancy when imaging reveals multiple bony lesions. This in turn will facilitate the reduction of unnecessary medical treatment and antibiotics.
Study on Constitutive Characteristic of As-Cast AA6061 Alloy under Plane Strain Compression Based on Orthogonal Analysis
Authors: Qin Fangcheng , Qi Huiping , Kang Yuehua , Liu Chongyu
Published: September 2019

Constitutive relationship and microstructure evolution of as-cast AA6061 alloy were studied using plane strain compression (PSC) under the temperature of 300–450°C, the strain rate of 0.01–5 s−1, and the strain of 0.9. It is found that the flow stress decreases with increasing temperature and decreasing strain rate. The dynamic recovery (DRV) and recrystallization (DRX) are found to easily occur by optical microscopic (OM) techniques. The softening mechanisms are mainly due to DRV that is accompanied by a slight DRX. Based on orthogonal analysis, the strain should be taken into account to derive the constitutive model accurately, and the interaction effect between the strain rate and temperature on the stress can be neglected when compared with the individual effect of the strain rate and temperature. The strain-compensated constitutive models based on orthogonal experiment are established, and the activation energy Q is found to be 158.465 kJ/mol. The correlation coefficient and the average absolute relative error between the experimental and the predicted results are 0.9946 and 4.2656%, respectively. The developed models can be used to predict the stress precisely at a wide range of strains, strain rates, and temperatures.
Initial Experience with Hybrid Argon Plasma Coagulation as a Novel Local Treatment Method for Tracheobronchial Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma
Authors: Zheng Xiaoxuan , Herth Felix J.F. , Sun Jiayuan
Published: September 2019

Tracheobronchial mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is a type of salivary gland tumor. Surgical resection is the main treatment for MEC, but it is associated with risks. Hybrid argon plasma coagulation (HybridAPC®) is an innovative technique combining APC with a water cushion function which can be used for the treatment of MEC. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HybridAPC for MEC in 2 patients diagnosed with MEC based on histological examination of biopsies. Full preoperative assessments were done by white-light bronchoscopy, autofluorescence imaging, narrow-band imaging, and radial probe endobronchial ultrasound. HybridAPC was administered after these evaluations. Both patients were followed up for more than 3 months. HybridAPC ablation was completed successfully, with no complications. HybridAPC thus appears to be a safe and efficient treatment for MEC.
What Becomes of the Frequent Hospital Attenders with Centrally Mediated Gastrointestinal Pain Syndrome?
Authors: Robertson Alexander R.
Published: September 2019

Objective: Centrally mediated gastrointestinal pain syndrome (CAPS) is an infrequently diagnosed functional condition. A small number of patients do, however, become heavy service users due to difficulty in controlling severe symptoms. We aim to review the outcomes of patients who required frequent hospitalisation with CAPS. Methods: Medical records of patients with multiple CAPS presentations during 2015 (n = 18) were further analysed and reviewed until January 1st, 2019. Results: Patients (female 15; male 3) had a median age of 33 (IQR 12) years. Gastrointestinal co-diagnosis was common (88.9%), most frequently irritable bowel syndrome (50%), cyclical vomiting syndrome (27.8%) or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (16.7%). 66.7% were prescribed regular opiate analgesics. Psychiatric co-morbidity was present in almost all: depression (88.9%); anxiety/panic disorders (38.9%) and post-traumatic stress disorder (27.8%). Social stressors were cited in 33.3%. 27.8% were employed, frequently in healthcare. Over the 4-year study period, 18 identified patients accounted for 2,048 nights in hospital and 672 A+E attendances. In 2015, these patients spent a median of 19 (IQR 34) nights in hospital each with median hospitalisations of between 7 and 10 nights over the following 3 years. Median A+E attendance was 8 per patient (IQR 8) in 2015, remaining relatively constant between 5 and 6 A+E presentations per patient per subsequent year. Conclusion: CAPS is a complicated heterogenous condition resulting from an interplay of physical stimuli with cognitive and emotional factors. As such, management is difficult and requires a multidisciplinary approach with considerable patient ownership of the condition, which is often difficult to achieve.
Occlusion of the Main Pancreatic Duct as a Method to Avoid a Pancreatojejunal Anastomosis: Metabolic Consequences
Authors: Patiño-Diaz Karina , Mexicano Esmeralda , Vergara Neydel , Contreras Celso , Sanchez-Valdivieso Enrique
Published: September 2019

Introduction: The poor prognosis seen after the Whipple procedure greatly depends on leaks from pancreatic-duo­denal anastomosis. Objective: To evaluate ligation of the pancreatic duct without reconstruction of the gastrointestinal tract continuity to prevent pancreatic postoperative fistula occurrence and to reduce surgical time. Methods: An experimental study was carried out on New Zealand adult rabbits who underwent pancreatic duct ligation without pancreatic-duodenal anastomosis. Pancreatic enzyme was administered orally to one operated group; another group of animals was operated on and monitored without enzyme replacement. Results: The groups were compared, and variations in weight and metabolic profiles were assessed. No significant differences were found between both operated groups in terms of postoperative mortality or reoperations. Discussion/Conclusion: The morbidity associated with pancreatic duct ligation is low, the procedure is well tolerated, and endocrine insufficiency does not seem to be a problem in the animal model.
Gastroenteropancreatic High-Grade Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: Histology and Molecular Analysis, Two Sides of the Same Coin
Authors: Busico Adele , Maisonneuve Patrick , Prinzi Natalie , Pusceddu Sara , Centonze Giovanni , Garzone Giovanna , Pellegrinelli Alessio , Giacomelli Luca , Mangogna Alessandro , Paolino Cinzia , Belfiore Antonino , Kankava Ketevani , Perrone Federica , Tamborini Elena , Pruneri Giancarlo , Fazio Nicola , Milione Massimo
Published: September 2019

Background: In gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) high-grade neuroendocrine neoplasms (H-NENs), Ki-67 threshold of 55% defines three prognosis subclasses: neuroendocrine tumor (NET) G3, neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) <55%, and NEC ≥55%. We investigated whether the molecular profiling of H-NENs differs among these subcategories and evaluated potential therapeutic targets, including PD-L1. Methods: In GEP-NEN patients, we evaluated: (i) 55% threshold for Ki-67 labeling index for further stratifying NEC and (ii) immunoreactivity and gene mutations by immunohistochemistry and targeted next-generation sequencing (T-NGS). Results: Fifteen NETs G3 and 39 NECs were identified. Ki-67 labeling index was <55% in 9 NECs and ≥55% in 30 NECs. Gene mutations by NGS (TP53, 32.9%; KRAS, 5.5%; BRAF, 4.1%) were detected in 46.6% NENs, significantly enriched in NEC ≥55% (76.7%) compared to NEC <55% (55.6%) or NET (20.0%). PD-L1 staining in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes was observed in NEC ≥55% (36.7%; p = 0.03). Median OS was 4.3 years in NET G3, 1.8 years in NEC <55%, and 0.7 years in NEC ≥55% (p <0.0001); it was 2.3 years with NGS wild-type, 0.7 years with ≥1 mutation (p <0.0001), 0.8 years in PD-L1-positive patients, and 1.7 years in PD-L1-negative subjects (p = 0.0004). In multivariate analysis, only the proposed subclassification approach yielded statistically significant differences between groups (NEC <55% vs. NET G3, HR 14.1, 95% CI 2.2–89.8, p = 0.005; NEC ≥55% vs. NET G3, HR 25.8, 95% CI 3.9–169, p = 0.0007). Conclusions: These findings identify NEC ≥55% as a biologically and prognostically distinct subtype and pave the way for more personalized treatment.
A comprehensive checklist of endemic flora of Meghalaya, India
Authors: Mir Aabid Hussain , Upadhaya Krishna , Roy Dilip Kumar , Deori Chaya , Singh Bikarma
Published: September 2019

The geographical distribution of plants of Meghalaya show that a total of 548 plant taxa belonging to 302 genera and 100 families are endemic to northeastern India or Indo-Burma or the eastern Himalaya region.  Of these, 115 species are exclusively endemic to the state of Meghalaya.  The dominant life form is epiphytes (25.4%), followed by trees (25%), shrubs (21.7%), herbs (21%), climbers (6.6%) and parasites (0.4%).  In terms of species richness, Orchidaceae is the largest family with 146 species and Bulbophyllum is the dominant genera represented by 15 species.  The present investigation reveals that most species considered endemic to the state of Meghalaya has extended geographic distribution to neighbouring states and other countries.  Majority of the endemic taxa are restricted to protected areas such as national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation reserves, and small forest patches preserved in the form of community forests or sacred groves.  Lesser known species with small populations outside the protected areas are on the verge of extinction due to a number of anthropogenic activities, hence warranting immediate conservation measures.
Overcoming the pollination barrier through artificial pollination in the Wild Nutmeg Knema attenuata (Myristicaceae), an endemic tree of the Western Ghats, India
Authors: Govind Murugan Govindakurup , Rameshkumar Koranapallil Bahuleyan , Dan Mathew
Published: September 2019

The barrier to pollination and pollinator assemblage were investigated in Knema attenuata, a dioecious tree species endemic to the Western Ghats of India.  It occupies an intermediate canopy stratum of the low and mid-elevation wet evergreen forests.  In order to observe floral display, insect foraging and fruit development, four populations of K. attenuata were selected.  The population diagram of each population was constructed by marking one female tree as the centre and male trees available at different radii from the female tree.  Direct observations and swap net trapping were used to sample insects in the canopy during the flowering season of 2016 and 2017.  Knema attenuata exhibited generalised pollination through diverse insects: thysanopterans (thrips), coleopterans (beetles), halictid bees, and dipterans (syrphid and phorid flies), where thrips played the major role.  On analysing the floral display, it was found that the male flowers provided no rewards and thus attracted less pollinators than the female flowers.  Among the four populations studied, three showed more than 70% fruit setting and the rate of abscission in flowers and young fruits were negligible.  One population was without fruit setting and trials on artificial pollination resulted in fruit setting.  A very low frequency of seed germination was observed in natural conditions which was enhanced by a seed germinator.
Brief insight into the behavior, activity, and interspecific interactions of urban Trimeresurus (Cryptelytrops) albolabris (Reptilia: Squamata: Viperidae) vipers in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Barnes Curt Hrad , Knierim Tyler Keith
Published: September 2019

Green Pit Vipers are a widely distributed, diverse group of snakes which occur across a variety of habitats.  Little is known about their natural history in anthropogenically modified environments, and no ecological work has investigated their persistence in cities.  We non-invasively photo-monitored White-lipped Green Pit Vipers Trimeresurus (Cryptelytrops) albolabris in the metropolis of Bangkok, Thailand (n = 4 individuals, mean = 2,658 minutes per individual).  Subsequently, we preliminarily characterize urban green pit vipers as nocturnal predators, displaying ambush-foraging at night, sheltering during the day, and having limited movement in between temporal periods.  We recorded two predation events of vipers capturing and ingesting anuran prey.  Vipers infrequently displayed tail undulations (239 minutes total), with one event occurring immediately before a predation event.  We also document chemosensory, probing, and mouth-gaping behaviors having occurred exclusively at night.  Other vertebrates including birds, frogs, geckos, small mammals, and a cobra were photographed interacting with focal vipers or their immediate surroundings (315 minutes total).  Knowledge of organisms in tropical urban environments is scarce, and the persistence of venomous snakes in these unique and challenging habitats requires further study.
“The Book of Formation of the World”: Sefer Yetzirah and Hilkhot Yetzirah
Authors: Weiss Tzahi
Published: September 2019

The Babylonian Talmud contains a tale about the creation of an artificial calf by two sages who dealt with hilkhot yetzirah, or laws of formation (b. Sanhedrin 65b). Already in the eleventh century CE the phrase “Laws of Formation” was being used to refer to the short, enigmatic, and influential treatise Sefer Yetzirah (Book of Formation), which depicts the creation of the world by means of the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet. The connection between hilkhot yetzirah and Sefer Yetzirah is of great consequence in determining the period in which the latter was edited, as well as its reception history.
Development as a Threat to Indigenous Peoples’ Rights in Indonesia
Authors: Buana Mirza Satria
Published: September 2019

This article examines the hypothesis that the developmental priorities of Indonesia in the post-Suharto era, in particular three legislative Acts that purport to protect indigenous peoples’ rights, in fact serve to undermine these rights. These Acts are: the Basic Agrarian Act, the Forestry Act, and the Plantation Act, and relate to land use for development purposes and also affect the autonomy of indigenous peoples. Despite being crucially important, these Acts have had detrimental effects on indigenous peoples’ lives. This article, using a qualitative socio-legal approach, analyses the historical and political contexts of the Acts to determine whether they enhance or undermine indigenous peoples’ rights, and how the government uses the Acts for suppression. This analysis identifies reasons for the weak regime, notably that the legislative Acts on land-related sectors are used as a political tool to suppress local communities, while allowing the government’s land market businesses to exploit natural resources.
Labour and Value
Authors: Screpanti Ernesto
Published: September 2019

In this book Ernesto Screpanti provides a rigorous examination of Marx’s theory of exploitation, one of the cornerstones of Marxist thought. With precision and clarity, he identifies the holes in traditional readings of Marx’s theory before advancing his own original interpretation, drawing on contemporary philosophy and economic theory to provide a refreshingly interdisciplinary exegesis.

Screpanti’s arguments are delivered with perspicuity and verve: this is a book that aims to spark a debate. He exposes ambiguities present in Marx’s exposition of his own theory, especially when dealing with the employment contract and the notions of ‘abstract labor’ and ‘labor value’, and he argues that these ambiguities have given rise to misunderstandings in previous analyses of Marx’s theory of exploitation. Screpanti’s own interpretation is a meticulously argued counterpoint to these traditional interpretations.

Labour and Value is a significant contribution to the theory of economics, particularly Marxist economics. It will also be of great interest to scholars in other disciplines including sociology, political science, and moral and political philosophy. Screpanti’s clear and engaging writing style will attract the interested general reader as well as the academic theorist.
Atmospheric Bistability and Abrupt Transitions to Superrotation: Wave–Jet Resonance and Hadley Cell Feedbacks
Authors: Herbert Corentin , Caballero Rodrigo , Bouchet Freddy
Published: September 2019

Strong eastward jets at the equator have been observed in many planetary atmospheres and simulated in numerical models of varying complexity. However, the nature of the transition from a conventional state of the general circulation, with easterlies or weak westerlies in the tropics, to such a superrotating state remains unclear. Is it abrupt or continuous? This question may have far-reaching consequences, as it may provide a mechanism for abrupt climate change in a planetary atmosphere, both through the loss of stability of the conventional circulation and through potential noise-induced transitions in the bistability range. We study two previously suggested feedbacks that may lead to bistability between a conventional and a superrotating state: the Hadley cell feedback and a wave–jet resonance feedback. We delineate the regime of applicability of these two mechanisms in a simple model of zonal acceleration budget at the equator. Then we show using numerical simulations of the axisymmetric primitive equations that the wave–jet resonance feedback indeed leads to robust bistability, while the bistability governed by the Hadley cell feedback, although observed in our numerical simulations, is much more fragile in a multilevel model.
Recommendation system for under graduate students using FSES-TOPSIS
Authors: B Selva Rani , Kumar S Ananda
Published: September 2019

Existing recommendation systems lack to address the need of several problems in education domain due to the availability of limited information. Study of recommendation systems to facilitate students’ education in their relevant services is being carried out in different perspective. Hence, the objective of this work is to apply existing knowledge for decision making to recommend students during their course registration process in an institution. The situation where more number of experts involves in decision making was influenced by Fuzzy Soft Expert Set (FSES). This work emphasizes the application of FSES for facilitating students’ course registration process assuming that the same course is offered by more number of faculty members during a semester. As more number of experts involved in this process and the uncertainty of the available data, using the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) along with FSES was considered. A new methodology FSES-TOPSIS was also applied in this work. The proposed method was accurate enough to enable students to rank the faculty members based on their previous performance and to enroll themselves with the faculty members of their interest. The method proposed here can be extended for various problems of similar nature.
Estimation of vehicle-induced bridge dynamic responses using fiber Bragg grating strain gages
Authors: Xiao Feng , Meng Dejian , Yu Yang , Ding Yong , Zhang Lijun , Chen Gang S , Zatar Wael , Hulsey J Leroy
Published: September 2019

Strain gage sensors have been used to evaluate the local behavior of structures; however, there are limited studies for its application in bridge dynamic feature identification. In this study, fiber Bragg grating strain gages were installed on the lower chord members of a bridge, and dynamic features were identified successfully using strain gage readings when vehicles passed over the bridge. The results were also verified using a finite element model. The innovation presented in this article is the use of fiber Bragg grating strain gage readings to identify the dynamic features of a long-span, steel-girder bridge. To clarify the effect of truck dynamic load, the load spectrum of the truck is characterized. This article introduces a new method for identifying the dynamic parameters of bridges.
Experiences May Vary: NATO and Cultural Interoperability in Afghanistan
Authors: Giegerich Bastian , von Hlatky Stéfanie
Published: September 2019

This article examines the coherence of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) coordinated military strategy during the war in Afghanistan. We argue that much of this coherence can be lost when decision makers adopt multinational strategic guidance that is then interpreted by different national contingents operationally. Different strategic and military cultures across troop-contributing countries may account for observed variation in operational outcomes, but better theoretical tools are needed to examine this phenomenon. Our aim is to further scholars’ understanding of how cultural variables can affect mission outcomes. This assumed effect of strategic and military cultures is explored empirically with reference to the Canadian and German Provincial Reconstruction Teams in Afghanistan, which formed part of the NATO-led ISAF operation.
Is Regional Lymph Node Metastasis of Head and Neck Paraganglioma a Sign of Aggressive Clinical Behavior: A Clinical/Pathologic Review
Authors: Javidiparsijani Sara , Brickman Arlen , Lin Diana Murro , Rohra Prih , Ghai Ritu , Bitterman Pincas , Reddi Vijaya , AL-Khudari Samer , Gattuso Paolo
Published: September 2019

Background:

Head and neck paraganglioma is a rare neoplasm of the paraganglia. It accounts for <1% of all head and neck tumors. It usually has benign clinical course; however, malignant paraganglioma can only be diagnosed by showing metastatic disease. We undertook a retrospective study to assess the clinical significance of regional lymph nodes metastases in head and neck paragangliomas.

Design:

From 1993 to 2016, primary head and neck paragangliomas are identified. The patient clinical and histopathologic materials were reviewed.

Results:

Sixty-five specimens from 62 patients (3 patients with more than 1 specimens) with head and neck paragangliomas were recorded (49 female and 13 males) with mean age of 54 (24-78 years). The locations of the tumors were as follows: carotid body: 30, glomus tympanicum: 11, glomus jugulare: 14, parapharyngeal space: 3, and 1 case each of larynx, skull base, paraglottic area, infratemporal fossa, mastoid, cerebellopontine (CP) angle, and pyriform sinus. On histopathology, we found 5 cases of sclerosing variant. Thirty-two (52%) of the 62 patients had regional lymph node biopsy. Four (12%) of the 32 show metastatic paraganglioma (3 females and 1 male with mean age = 35). Two of the 5 cases of sclerosing variant had positive lymph nodes. No evidence of local recurrence or distant metastasis in the patients with positive lymph nodes with a 6 to 11 years follow-up. One of the 28 patients with negative lymph nodes developed metastatic disease to lumbar spine in 5 years.

Conclusion:

Metastatic paraganglioma to regional lymph nodes may have indolent clinical behavior, with disease-free survival of up to 11 years. The incidence of metastatic disease in lymph nodes was 4 (12%) of 32. Forty percent (2/5) of the cases with sclerosing variant of paraganglioma had lymph node metastases indicating that this tumor may have a more aggressive histological behavior.
Medial Rectus Anastomosis Under Endoscopic Endonasal Orbital Approach With Image-Guided Navigation: A New Way of Repairing a Ruptured Medial Rectus
Authors: Wu Ying-Xing , Li Zhi-Yong , Luo Ban , Long Xiao-Bo , Xiang Nan , Wang Ping , Liu Rong , Xiang Yan , Zhen Hong-Tao
Published: September 2019

Background:

With the extensive development of endoscopic sinus surgery, iatrogenic medial rectus muscle injury should be treated with caution. Traditional methods to repair a ruptured medial rectus need an anterior orbitotomy approach, with more injury and difficulty in finding the posterior end of the ruptured medial rectus.

Objective:

To explore a new method to repair a ruptured medial rectus.

Methods:

Eight cases of iatrogenic medial rectus rupture after endoscopic sinus surgery were reviewed from July 2015 to January 2019. Assisted by image-guided navigation, the ruptured medial rectus was sutured under an endoscopic endonasal orbital approach. Two methods were designed to suture the ruptured medial rectus. Optic nerve and orbital decompression were performed in 5 cases with visual impairment. The extent of exotropia and diplopia were followed up for 5 to 33 months after surgery.

Results:

With the help of image guidance, the posterior and anterior ends of the ruptured medial rectus of all patients were pinpointed, and operations using medial rectus anastomosis were successfully completed in 7 patients. The exotropia of these patients was corrected, and they have recovered. The vision of 2 patients recovered. There were no minor or major complications intraoperatively or postoperatively.

Conclusion:

Assisted by image-guided navigation, medial rectus anastomosis under an endoscopic endonasal orbital approach is a feasible method. The key to preventing orbital complications is strict professional training, including identification of the Onodi air cell and correct application of powered instrumentation.
Hearing Rehabilitation Implementing a Transcutaneous Bone Conduction Device: Single-Center Experience
Authors: Shokri Tom , Czarnecki Beth , Baker Aaron , Isildak Huseyin
Published: September 2019

Bone conduction implants based on percutaneous abutment acoustic transmission have been implemented in patients with satisfactory outcomes. However, adverse soft tissue outcomes present a limitation. Transcutaneous bone conduction devices (t-BCDs) are an alternative that may mitigate these complications. A retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent implantation of a t-BCD from 2013 to 2017. Surgical outcomes were reviewed including wound complications, frequency of device use, patient concerns regarding the device, and reported patient satisfaction. A total of 37 patients were implanted with the bone-anchored hearing aids, BAHA Attract (Cochlear™ Baha® Implant System). Average follow-up time was 271.8 days. Postoperatively, 7 (18.9%) patients complained of soft tissue changes or issues with wound healing. Twelve (32.4%) patients requested adjustment of their devices. The t-BCD is an excellent option for hearing rehabilitation. Overall, the complication rate is low, patient satisfaction is high, and successful conversion from a percutaneous device is possible with minimal risk.
Can Pregnancy Lead to Changes in Hearing Threshold?
Authors: Kwatra Devanshu , Kumar Sunil , Singh Gautam Bir , Biswas Ratna , Upadhyay Prabhakar
Published: September 2019

Purpose:

This study explores the changes in hearing thresholds in pregnancy.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective hospital-based observational study was performed with a total of 69 patients in the age-group of 18 to 40 years. Patients underwent hearing assessment twice during the study period. Conventional pure tone audiometry and impedance audiometry were performed, first during the antepartum period (28-32 weeks of gestational age) and second time during the postpartum period (6 weeks postpartum).

Results:

Significant difference was seen between the average of air conduction threshold values at speech frequencies when antepartum values were compared with postpartum values.

Conclusion:

The alterations in hearing sensitivity in pregnant females which improved during the postpartum period can be attributed to pregnancy.
The Relationships Between Craniofacial Structure and Frontal Sinus Morphology: Evaluation With Conventional Anthropometry and CT-Based Volumetry
Authors: Aslıer N. G. Yüksel , Zeybek G. , Karabay N. , Keskinoğlu P. , Kiray A. , Sütay S. , Ecevit M. C.
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of craniofacial structure and nasal septal deviation on frontal sinus morphology 3-dimensionally. This study of anatomy, anthropology, morphology, and radiology included 74 dry skulls as study sample. The craniofacial measurements were made through conventional anthropometric methods by the use of calipers. The nasal septal deviation measurements were done by computerized software on photographs taken from frontal view. Frontal sinus volumes were estimated by the computerized tomography-based volumetry. The relationships between craniofacial structure, nasal septal deviation, and frontal sinus morphology were tested by linear regression and correlation analysis. The analysis of numerical variables and categorical variables within different groups was done by Mann-Whitney U/Kruskal-Wallis, and χ2 tests, respectively. There appeared a positive relationship between the dimensions of the frontal sinuses and the maximal cranial length and the nasal height especially on the left side ( P < .05). However, after multivariate linear regression model for both factors was created, solely the nasal height kept being a positive factor for frontal sinus size as an independent variable. No statistical relevance was detected between the presence of metopic suture and frontal sinus morphology. Septal deviation itself affected frontal sinus morphometry, but the morphometry did not differ between the deviation side and the opposite side. In conclusion, the cranial structure does not affect the frontal sinus morphology but nasal structure affects. The true influences, among measured craniofacial elements, in relationship with the pneumatization of frontal sinus are appeared to be the nasal structure related.
Possible Skull Base Erosion After Prolonged Frontal Sinus Stenting
Authors: Reeve Nathaniel H. , Ching Harry H. , Kim Yuna , Schroeder Walter W.
Published: September 2019

Frontal sinus stenting is widely used with the goal of maintaining nasofrontal duct patency after sinus surgery. The general recommendation is to leave stents in place for 6 months; however, prolonged stenting up to 6 years has been reported with no complication. We present the first reported case of frontal sinus posterior table and skull base erosion following prolonged frontal sinus stenting. A 57-year-old female presented with chronic sinusitis and nasal obstruction. Imaging revealed pansinusitis with retained stents in each frontal sinus that were placed 8 years prior. On the right, there was an area of skull base erosion at the tip of the stent. The patient underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery with polypectomy. The stents were removed, revealing posterior table erosion on the right side but intact mucosa. Two months after surgery, there were no signs or symptoms of cerebrospinal fluid leak or other complications. Recent literature has suggested that prolonged stenting is safe; however, this case highlights a complication with potentially serious outcomes that can result from prolonged stenting. We recommend stent removal once stable nasofrontal duct patency has been achieved. If prolonged stenting is utilized, patients should be closely monitored and consideration should be given to periodic imaging to evaluate stent position.
Global Perspective on Careers in Environmental Toxicologic Pathology: The 2019 Society of Toxicologic Pathology Annual Symposium Lunchtime Career Development Session
Authors: Dagli Maria L. Z. , Pandiri Arun , Wolf Jeff , Groeters Sibylle , Haschek-Hock Wanda M.
Published: September 2019

A wide range of career options is available globally in the environmental toxicologic pathology (ETP) arena including academia, government, contract research organizations, and the agrichemical/chemical industry. This small and specialized subset of toxicologic pathologists addresses the effects of contaminants and pollutants on human, animal, and ecological health (One Health). Veterinary students and pathology trainees are primarily exposed to diagnostic pathology and often have limited exposure to toxicologic pathology and even less so to the issues and opportunities in environmental toxicology. The speakers provided a brief overview of global opportunities in their work sector and personal perspectives of their careers in ETP. The following panel discussion provided an opportunity to discuss issues related to careers in this specialty.
Robust RBM3 and β-klotho expression in developing neurons in the human brain
Authors: Jackson Travis C , Janesko-Feldman Keri , Carlson Shaun W , Kotermanski Shawn E , Kochanek Patrick M
Published: September 2019

RNA binding motif 3 (RBM3) is a powerful neuroprotectant that inhibits neurodegenerative cell death in vivo and is a promising therapeutic target in brain ischemia. RBM3 is increased by the hormone fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) in an age- and temperature-dependent manner in rat cortical neurons. FGF21 receptor binding is controlled by the transmembrane protein β-klotho, which is mostly absent in the adult brain. We discovered that RBM3/β-klotho is unexpectedly high in the human infant vs. adult brain (hippocampus/prefrontal cortex). The use of tissue homogenates in that study precluded a comparison of RBM3/β-klotho expression among different CNS cell-types, thus, omitted key evidence (i.e. confirmation of neuronal expression) that would otherwise provide a critical link to support their possible direct neuroprotective effects in humans. This report addresses that knowledge gap. High-quality fixed human hippocampus, cortex, and hypothalamic tissues were acquired from the NIH Neurobiobank (<1 yr (premature born) infants, 1 yr, 4 yr, and 34 yr). Dual labeling of cell-type markers vs. RBM3/β-klotho revealed enriched staining of targets in neurons in the developing brain. Identifying that RBM3/β-klotho is abundant in neurons in the immature brain is fundamentally important to guide protocol design and conceptual frameworks germane to future testing of these neuroprotective pathways in humans.
Axisymmetric indentation problem of a transversely isotropic elastic medium with surface stresses
Authors: Wang Fang Fang , Shen Jing Jin , Li Yong Gui
Published: September 2019

The frictionless contact problem between an axisymmetric rigid indenter and a layered transversely isotropic medium with surface stresses is considered. The contact pressure is represented as a product of two series based on the solutions of the bulk material and the elastic surface. By using Hankel transforms, the coefficients in the product-series representation are determined by the normal displacement condition inside the contact area and the finite-pressure condition at the contact edge. Taking the spherical indentation as a specific example, the effectiveness of the solution procedure is verified for various contact scenarios. Comparing with the Green’s function method, this solution procedure is not only computationally efficient but also may give the contact pressure in its analytical form. For some specific problems, the effects of the material anisotropy and the layer thickness on the contact process with surface stresses are investigated.
Oil prices and geopolitical risks: What implications are offered via multi-domain investigations?
Authors: Li Boying , Chang Chun-Ping , Chu Yin , Sui Bo
Published: September 2019

This paper firstly investigates the frequency- and time-varying co-movement and causal relationship between crude oil prices (proxied by the West Texas Intermediate, Brent, Dubai and Nigerian Forcados spot oil prices) and geopolitical risks based on the wavelet analysis over the period of 1985–2016. Overall, our results demonstrate significant dynamic co-movement and causality in the varying time–frequency domains. We find high degree of co-movement between geopolitical risks and oil prices at high frequencies (in the short run) for the entire sample period; however, such a correlation does not exist at low frequencies (in the long run) for most of the sample period. We also find distinct patterns of causal relationships between geopolitical risks and oil prices across different benchmark markets. Results are robust when we control for global economic outlook. Our findings provide valuable implications for policy makers and oil market investors based on the dynamic relationship between geopolitical risks and oil prices.
Reclaiming “good motherhood”: US mothers’ critical resistance in family homeless shelters
Authors: Reppond Harmony A , Bullock Heather E
Published: September 2019

Unhoused mothers not only contend with housing precarity and economic hardship but also intersecting classist, racist, and sexist stereotypes that position them as unfit mothers. Classed, raced, and gendered conceptualizations of “good” and “bad” motherhood are reified in US shelter regulations (e.g. strict rules governing parent and child behavior, curfews, mandatory participation in parenting classes) that seek to “reform” homeless mothers. To gain a better understanding of perceptions of and responses to shelter regulations, we interviewed 28 formerly unhoused US mothers about their experiences in family shelters. Participants overwhelmingly rejected “bad mother” stereotypes that equated lack of material resources with inadequate parenting and engaged in a range of overt (e.g. strategic recounting of life histories) and covert (e.g. subverting paternalistic rules) strategies to reclaim “good motherhood” and negotiate daily shelter life. Instrumental, discursive, covert, and overt critical resistance strategies were used to maintain parental authority, preserve one’s self-image as a “good” mother and obtain needed resources from shelter staff. Our findings highlight the complexity of critical resistance to class, race, and gender oppression and call for greater interrogation of how seemingly well-intentioned shelter rules and policies reinforce status hierarchies.