bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The System Truss as a Building System
Authors: Iwata Mamoru , Shirai Takashi , Kawai Hiroki 
Published: January 2017

A space structure means a structure, such as a space truss, suspended structure, or air supported structure. The space truss is a suitable system for industrial use or constructing systematized structure because it can be divided into simple components. Modern technology has made dramatic progress in the past decade, but the advanced technologies have not yet had a strong impact on architecture. The aim of this paper is to prove that the space truss can be both systematized and industrialized through the use of such advanced technologies as C.I.M. (Computer Integrated Manufacturing), and that the system truss (systematized space truss) will be able to provide infinite possibilities for, architects to create space structures.
Deployability Conditions for Curved and Flat, Polygonal and Trapezoidal Deployable Structures
Authors: Gantes C.J. , Logcher R.D. , Connor J.J. , Rosenfeld Y. 
Published: January 2017

Prefabricated, deployable space frames that exhibit self-standing and stress-free states in both the deployed and collapsed configurations are investigated in this paper. This type of deployable structures shows considerable advantages as compared to previous designs that either required external stabilizing or had members with residual stresses in the deployed configuration. Following previous developments for flat deployable structures consisting of units with regular-polygon planviews, this study deals with flat structures made of trapezoidals, and curved structures assembled from regular-polygonal units. First, the general geometric constraints and deployability conditions for these units are formulated, and a methodology for using these constraints as geometric design criteria is presented. Furthermore, additional conditions for the assemblage of single units into larger structures are given. Then, structural analysis issues for this type of structures are discussed. The necessity of nonlinear analysis during deployment is emphasized. Finally, the above geometric design procedures are demonstrated with specific examples.
Branching of Equilibrium Paths in a Deployable Column
Authors: Hegedüs I. 
Published: January 2017

The study deals with the static and kinematic analysis of a column-like structure composed of absolutely rigid hinged plane elements and of linear elastic bars. The elements form congruent space structural units which can be folded separately by using appropriate external loads. The analysis shows that a chain of these units can work as a deployable column only if the cyclic symmetry of the structure is not disturbed by imperfections. The equilibrium paths for packaging or deploying the imperfect structure are not stable, thus the geometry of the column cannot be controlled by an axial force only.
Retractable Spatial Structures for Swimming Pool Enclosures
Authors: Karni Eyal 
Published: January 2017

Retractable spatial structures are modern buildings designed to comply with the user's flexibility needs – concerning the complete or partial opening of a building's enclosure. Most sport activities are usually preferred, by spectators as well as by competitors, to be held in open air. Swimming, a popular sport activity, is highly sensitive to cold and wind. The need for retractable structures arises since weather conditions vary with seasons while current market demand is for year-round activity. Designing retractable enclosures for swimming pools involves specific criteria, resulting from the safety and operational demands of such facilities. The variety of swimming pool geometries and the nature of the user's needs has resulted in numerous solutions of retractable enclosures, varying in size, geometry, structural systems, building technology, opening and closing techniques, building materials, maintenance and cost. This paper addresses current solutions of light-weight retractable spatial structures – designed to enclose swimming pool facilities. Swimming pool types are described, followed by a list of design criteria. Classification of structural methods is then brought forward, represented by specific projects and drawings.
Compression therapy for congenital low-flow vascular malformations of the extremities: A systematic review
Authors: Langbroek Ginger B , Horbach Sophie ER , van der Vleuten Carine JM , Ubbink Dirk T , van der Horst Chantal MAM 
Published: January 2017

Introduction Low-flow vascular malformations are congenital abnormalities of the veins, capillaries or lymphatic vessels or a combination of the previous. Compressive garments are frequently used as a first-line treatment option for low-flow vascular malformations of the extremities with the purpose of relieving symptoms. Yet, the benefits and harms of compression stockings remain unclear. Methods A systematic search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials including a hand search for studies measuring the benefits and harms of compression garments in treating low-flow vascular malformations. Two investigators performed study selection, quality assessment and data extraction independently. Results Of the 565 studies found, eventually five (totalling 101 patients with venous malformations or Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome receiving compression therapy) observational studies were included in the systematic review. Although the overall quality of these studies was poor, results suggest that compression garments might lessen intravascular coagulation, improve symptoms and appearance, diminish oedema, and protect against minor trauma. None of the studies quantified any harms of compression therapy. Conclusion Even though compression therapy is commonly used in the treatment of low-flow vascular malformations, available literature does not provide high-quality evidence to validate its use. We therefore advocate the need for prospective comparative trials with standardised outcome measures to study the benefits and harms of this treatment option.
Gross and Microscopic Findings with a Combination of Jessner Solution Plus 53% Resorcinol Paste in Chemical Peels
Authors: Hernández-Pérez Enrique , Jaurez-Arce Veronica 
Published: January 2017

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and histopathologic response of photoaged skin to a series of combined Jessner solution and 53% resorcinol paste chemical peels. Materials and Methods: Five women aged 40–53 years were treated with 5 peels at weekly intervals. The peels consisted of applying Jessner solution followed by the application of 53% resorcinol paste for 1 minute initially. This was increased according to the patient's tolerance. Pre-, intra-, and posttreatment clinical signs were tabulated. Skin biopsies were taken before treatment and again 3 days after the fifth peel. Results: Both the clinical and histopathologic signs of photoaging were improved by the peels. Side effects and negative sequelae were minimal, consisting of pruritus and desquamation. Discussion: The peels were well tolerated and resulted in improvement of aged skin. The clinical and histopathologic evaluations indicate that the peel process, performed as presented, results in biological changes in the deep papillary to upper reticular dermis.
In Vivo Tissue Engineering: Part I. Concept Genesis and Guidelines for its Realization
Authors: Zdrahala Richard J. , Zdrahala Ivanka J. 
Published: January 2017

A loss of function of an organ often represents a life-threatening situation. Transplantations are successful, but "replacement" availability, its compatibility with the host, and subsequent healing often pose serious questions. Tissue engineering, where a carefully prepared scaffold is populated, in vitro, by cells to form an artificial organ, addresses some of the problems mentioned above. Trauma associated with the implant introduction to the host often complicates the process. The novel concept of in vivo tissue engineering which is designed to mediate the healing and tissue regeneration process by providing an in vitro formed porous, microcellular scaffold is proposed. The scaffold (part or entire organ) is then populated by cells either spontaneously (the surrounding cells will spread and populate to inhabit the scaffold) or by cellular augmentation (encapsulated cells are delivered to this in status nascendi scaffold). Minimally traumatic arthroscopic surgery combined with a unique polymer delivery system is envisioned for the introduction of this implant to a site to be repaired. Such an approach will require the formation of polymer in-situ, in a reasonable time. The scaffold-forming polymers will be, in principle, biodegradable. We propose to utilize biodegradable polyurethane systems for in vivo tissue engineering. Diversity of their structure/property relationships, relative "ease" of their preparation, and excellent biocompatibility predetermine polyurethanes to be the materials of choice. This paper describes the genesis of this concept and potentials for its realization. It is intended to initiate and stimulate discussion among the related scientific disciplines to form a basis for this field. The synthesis, application, and biodegradation of selected polyurethanes and variety of its medical utilization will be discussed in upcoming papers.
Modeling excess zeros and heterogeneity in count data from a complex survey design with application to the demographic health survey in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Dai Lin , Sweat Michael D , Gebregziabher Mulugeta 
Published: January 2017

Purpose To show a novel application of a weighted zero-inflated negative binomial model in modeling count data with excess zeros and heterogeneity to quantify the regional variation in HIV-AIDS prevalence in sub-Saharan African countries. Methods Data come from latest round of the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted in three countries (Ethiopia-2011, Kenya-2009 and Rwanda-2010) using a two-stage cluster sampling design. The outcome is an aggregate count of HIV cases in each census enumeration area of each country. The outcome data are characterized by excess zeros and heterogeneity due to clustering. We compare scale weighted zero-inflated negative binomial models with and without random effects to account for zero-inflation, complex survey design and clustering. Finally, we provide marginalized rate ratio estimates from the best zero-inflated negative binomial model. Results The best fitting zero-inflated negative binomial model is scale weighted and with a common random intercept for the three countries. Rate ratio estimates from the final model show that HIV prevalence is associated with age and gender distribution, HIV acceptance, HIV knowledge, and its regional variation is associated with divorce rate, burden of sexually transmitted diseases and rural residence. Conclusions Scale weighted zero-inflated negative binomial with proper modeling of random effects is shown to be the best model for count data from a complex survey design characterized by excess zeros and extra heterogeneity. In our data example, the final rate ratio estimates show significant regional variation in the factors associated with HIV prevalence indicating that HIV intervention strategies should be tailored to the unique factors found in each country.
Beta-binomial analysis of variance model for network meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy data
Authors: N Nyaga Victoria , Arbyn Marc , Aerts Marc 
Published: January 2017

There are several generalized linear mixed models to combine direct and indirect evidence on several diagnostic tests from related but independent diagnostic studies simultaneously also known as network meta-analysis. The popularity of these models is due to the attractive features of the normal distribution and the availability of statistical software to obtain parameter estimates. However, modeling the latent sensitivity and specificity using the normal distribution after transformation is neither natural nor computationally convenient. In this article, we develop a meta-analytic model based on the bivariate beta distribution, allowing to obtain improved and direct estimates for the global sensitivities and specificities of all tests involved, and taking into account simultaneously the intrinsic correlation between sensitivity and specificity and the overdispersion due to repeated measures. Using the beta distribution in regression has the following advantages, that the probabilities are modeled in their proper scale rather than a monotonic transform of the probabilities. Secondly, the model is flexible as it allows for asymmetry often present in the distribution of bounded variables such as proportions, which is the case with sparse data common in meta-analysis. Thirdly, the model provides parameters with direct meaningful interpretation since further integration is not necessary to obtain the meta-analytic estimates.
ADVANCE: An effective and feasible technique in acute stroke treatment
Authors: Gurkas Erdem , Akpinar Cetin Kursad , Aytac Emrah 
Published: January 2017

Background and purpose Different techniques regarding efficient utilization of thrombectomy devices have been reported. Here, we described a novel technique named ADVANCE that is based on advancing a distal access catheter over the stent retriever. In this study, we aimed to report our initial results with this novel thrombectomy technique. Methods and results Sixty-seven consecutive acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke patients (35 male, 32 female) between January 2015 and January 2016 who were treated by mechanical thrombectomy were included in this prospective study. Patients were classified randomly into two groups: patients treated with either the ADVANCE technique or standard technique. Patients had a mean age of 61.1 ± 12.9 years. The average NIHSS score was 15.8 ± 3.8. In the ADVANCE group, the successful revascularization (mTICI 2b–3) rate was 87.1% and the 90-day good functional outcome rate (mRS 0–2) was 74.1%. The revascularization rate in the ADVANCE group was significantly ( p = 0.005) better than the standard technique group and good functional outcome at 90 days in the ADVANCE group was non-significantly better than the standard technique group ( p = 0.052). Conclusions ADVANCE is the first comparison of this technique to standard stent retriever thrombectomy with a higher rate of revascularization with no emboli to new territory and fewer distal emboli to target territory. This safe and efficient technique needs to be validated in large patient series in new thrombectomy trials.
Effects of Plasmodium falciparum infection on umbilical artery resistance and intrafetal blood flow distribution: a Doppler ultrasound study from Papua New Guinea
Authors: Ome-Kaius Maria , Karl Stephan , Wangnapi Regina Alice , Bolnga John Walpe , Mola Glen , Walker Jane , Mueller Ivo , Unger Holger Werner , Rogerson Stephen John 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Background
Doppler velocimetry studies of umbilical artery (UA) and middle cerebral artery (MCA) flow help to determine the presence and severity of fetal growth restriction. Increased UA resistance and reduced MCA pulsatility may indicate increased placental resistance and intrafetal blood flow redistribution. Malaria causes low birth weight and fetal growth restriction, but few studies have assessed its effects on uteroplacental and fetoplacental blood flow.

Methods
Colour-pulsed Doppler ultrasound was used to assess UA and MCA flow in 396 Papua New Guinean singleton fetuses. Abnormal flow was defined as an UA resistance index above the 90th centile, and/or a MCA pulsatility index and cerebroplacental ratio (ratio of MCA and UA pulsatility index) below the 10th centile of population-specific models fitted to the data. Associations between malaria (peripheral infection prior to and at ultrasound examination, and any gestational infection, i.e., ‘exposure’) and abnormal flow, and between abnormal flow and birth outcomes, were estimated.

Results
Of 78 malaria infection episodes detected before or at the ultrasound visit, 62 (79.5%) were Plasmodium falciparum (34 sub-microscopic infections), and 16 were Plasmodium vivax. Plasmodium falciparum infection before or at Doppler measurement was associated with increased UA resistance (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.3 95% CI 1.0–5.2, P = 0.047). When assessed by ‘exposure’, P. falciparum infection was significantly associated with increased UA resistance (all infections: 2.4, 1.1–4.9, P = 0.024; sub-microscopic infections 2.6, 1.0–6.6, P = 0.051) and a reduced MCA pulsatility index (all infections: 2.6, 1.2–5.3, P = 0.012; sub-microscopic infections: 2.8, 1.1–7.5, P = 0.035). Sub-microscopic P. falciparum infections were additionally associated with a reduced cerebroplacental ratio (3.64, 1.22–10.88, P = 0.021). There were too few P. vivax infections to draw robust conclusions. An increased UA resistance index was associated with histological evidence of placental malaria (5.1, 2.3–10.9, P < 0.001; sensitivity 0.26, specificity 0.93). A low cerebroplacental Doppler ratio was associated with concurrently measuring small-for-gestational-age, and with low birth weight.

Discussion/conclusion
Both microscopic and sub-microscopic P. falciparum infections impair fetoplacental and intrafetal flow, at least temporarily. Increased UA resistance has high specificity but low sensitivity for the detection of placental infection. These findings suggest that interventions to protect the fetus should clear and prevent both microscopic and sub-microscopic malarial infections.
Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01136850. Registered 06 April 2010
Compression forces used in the Norwegian Breast Cancer Screening Program
Authors: Waade Gunvor G , Moshina Nataliia , Sebuødegård Sofie , Hogg Peter , Hofvind Solveig 
Published: January 2017

Objective:
Compression is used in mammography to reduce breast thickness, which is claimed to improve image quality and reduce radiation dose. In the Norwegian Breast Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP), the recommended range of compression force for full-field digital mammography (FFDM) is 11–18 kg (108–177 N). This is the first study to investigate the compression force used in the programme.

Methods:
The study included information from 17,951 randomly selected females screened with FFDM at 14 breast centres in the NBCSP, during January–March 2014. We investigated the applied compression force on the left breast in craniocaudal and mediolateral oblique views for breast centres, mammography machines within the breast centres and for the radiographers.

Results:
The mean compression force for all mammograms in the study was 116 N and ranged from 91 N to 147 N between the breast centres. The variation in compression force was wider between the breast centres than that between mammography machines (range 137–155 N) and radiographers (95–143 N) within one breast centre. Approximately 59% of the mammograms in the study complied with the recommended range of compression force.

Conclusion:
A wide variation in applied compression force was observed between the breast centres in the NBCSP. This variation indicates a need for evidence-based recommendations for compression force aimed at optimizing the image quality and individualizing breast compression.

Advances in knowledge:
There was a wide variation in applied compression force between the breast centres in the NBCSP. The variation was wider between the breast centres than that between mammography machines and radiographers within one breast centre.
Annotated mitochondrial genome with Nanopore R9 signal for Nippostrongylus brasiliensis
Authors: Chandler Jodie , Camberis Mali , Bouchery Tiffany , Blaxter Mark , Le Gros Graham , Eccles David A 
Published: January 2017

Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, a nematode parasite of rodents, has a parasitic life cycle that is an extremely useful model for the study of human hookworm infection, particularly in regards to the induced immune response. The current reference genome for this parasite is highly fragmented with minimal annotation, but new advances in long-read sequencing suggest that a more complete and annotated assembly should be an achievable goal. We de-novo assembled a single contig mitochondrial genome from N. brasiliensis using MinION R9 nanopore data. The assembly was error-corrected using existing Illumina HiSeq reads, and annotated in full (i.e. gene boundary definitions without substantial gaps) by comparing with annotated genomes from similar parasite relatives. The mitochondrial genome has also been annotated with a preliminary electrical consensus sequence, using raw signal data generated from a Nanopore R9 flow cell.
Is Advance Selling Desirable with Competition?
Authors: Cachon Gérard P. , Feldman Pnina 
Published: January 2017

It has been shown that a monopolist can use advance selling to increase profits. This paper documents that this may not hold when a firm faces competition. With advance selling a firm offers its service in an advance period, before consumers know their valuations for the firms’ services, or later on in a spot period, when consumers know their valuations. We identify two ways in which competition limits the effectiveness of advance selling. First, while a monopolist can sell to consumers with homogeneous preferences at a high price, this homogeneity intensifies price competition, which lowers profits. However, the firms may nevertheless find themselves in an equilibrium with advance selling. In this sense, advance selling is better described as a competitive necessity rather than as an advantageous tool to raise profits. Second, competition in the spot period is likely to lower spot period prices, thereby forcing firms to lower advance period prices, which is also not favorable to profits. Rational firms anticipate this and curtail or eliminate the use of advance selling. Thus, even though a monopolist fully exploits the practice of advance selling, rational firms facing competition either mitigate it or avoid it completely. The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mksc.2016.1006 .
Calorimetric Studies of Formation/Decomposition Processes of Natural Gas Hydrates in Paraffin Oil/Water Emulsions
Authors: Ivanova Izabella K. , Semenov Matvey E. , Koryakina Vladilina V. , Rozhin Igor I. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThe paper considers the research results of natural gas (NG) hydrate formation process in systems consisting of paraffin oil and distilled water at various ratios. Thermobaric conditions of hydrates phase transitions in water-oil emulsions were determined by the method of high-pressure differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It was ascertained that the equilibrium curve in systems under study, compared to the process of hydrate formation of this gas in distilled water, is shifted in the area of low pressures and high temperatures. According to DSC analysis results and volume analysis, it was determined that with increase of the water content in emulsions by more than 40 % of mass, the degree of water conversion into hydrate in emulsions decreases. It was concluded that the degree of water conversion into hydrate in emulsions can be used as an index of its stability.
Analytic solutions of transcendental equations with application to automatics
Authors: Górecki Henryk , Zaczyk Mieczysław 
Published: January 2017

AbstractIn the paper the extremal dynamic error x(τ) and the moment of time τ are considered. The extremal value of dynamic error gives information about accuracy of the system. The time τ gives information about velocity of transient. The analytical formulae enable design of the system with prescribed properties. These formulae are calculated due to the assumption that x(τ) is a function of the roots s1, ..., snof the characteristic equation.