bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On fractional Kakutani–Matsuuchi water wave model: Implementing a reliable implicit finite difference method
Authors: Moradi V. , Sayevand K.
Published: August 2020

In this study, a reliable implicit finite difference method based on the modified trapezoidal quadrature rule, backward Euler differences, nonstandard central approximations, and the Hadamard finite‐part integral is being considered to solve a viscous asymptotical model named as fractional Kakutani–Matsuuchi water wave model. The fractional derivative is used in the Riemann–Liouville sense. Based on the properties of Brouwer's fixed‐point theorem, the existence, uniqueness, convergence, and stability of the proposed method are proved. Furthermore, we show that the global convergence order of the method in maximum norm is O(τ, hmin{β,3 − α}), where 0 < α ≤ 1 and β > 0 are the order of fractional derivative and the Lipschitz constant. Also, τ and h are the time step and space step, respectively. Finally, several examples are used to illustrate the accuracy and performance of the method.
Nutritional Lipids and Mucosal Inflammation
Authors: Wawrzyniak Paulina , Noureddine Nazek , Wawrzyniak Marcin , Lucchinetti Eliana , Krämer Stefanie D. , Rogler Gerhard , Zaugg Michael , Hersberger Martin
Published: August 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic relapsing inflammation in the intestine. Given their role in regulation of inflammation, long‐chain n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) represent a potential supplementary therapeutic approach to current drug regimens used for IBD. Mechanistically, there is ample evidence for an anti‐inflammatory and pro‐resolution effect of long‐chain n‐3 PUFAs after they incorporate into cell membrane phospholipids. They disrupt membrane rafts and when released from the membrane suppress inflammatory signaling by activating PPAR‐γ and free fatty acid receptor 4; furthermore, they shift the lipid mediator profile from pro‐inflammatory eicosanoids to specialized pro‐resolving mediators. The allocation of long‐chain n‐3 PUFAs also leads to a higher microbiome diversity in the gut, increases short‐chain fatty acid‐producing bacteria, and improves intestinal barrier function by sealing epithelial tight junctions. In
line with these mechanistic studies, most epidemiological studies support a beneficial effect of long‐chain n‐3 PUFAs intake on reducing the incidence of IBD. However, the results from intervention trials on the prevention of relapse in IBD patients show no or only a marginal effect of long‐chain n‐3 PUFAs supplementation. In light of the current literature, international recommendations are supported that adequate diet‐derived n‐3 PUFAs might be beneficial in maintaining remission in IBD patients.
Estimating vertebral bone marrow fat unsaturation based on short‐TE STEAM MRS
Authors: Syväri Jan , Ruschke Stefan , Dieckmeyer Michael , Hauner Hans H. , Junker Daniela , Makowski Marcus R. , Baum Thomas , Karampinos Dimitrios C.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To define a metric for the separability between water and olefinic fat peaks that defines a threshold beyond which the extraction of the olefinic fat peak from vertebral bone marrow short‐echo time‐stimulated echo acquisition mode MRS at 3T is feasible when using a constrained peak fitting based on the triglyceride fat model.

Methods

The water and olefinic peak height difference was defined as a metric for quantifying the separability of water and olefinic fat peaks. Fat unsaturation was determined using an unconstrained olefinic peak fitting and a constrained fitting of all fat peaks to the triglyceride model. The agreement between the two peak‐fitting methods was used to define a threshold on water and olefinic peak height difference separating two groups (A and B), based on L5 short‐echo time‐stimulated echo acquisition mode (TE = 11 ms) spectra from 252 subjects measured at 3T.

Results

A threshold on water and olefinic peak height difference was defined. Group A with a good agreement of the olefinic fat peak between the two peak‐fitting methods showed a mean number of double bounds = 2.95 ± 0.21, a mean number of methylene‐interrupted double bounds = 0.94 ± 0.16 and also a significantly lower coefficient of variation for all fatty acid composition parameters compared to group B (p < .001). The water and olefinic peak height difference value showed an inverse association with fat fraction.

Conclusion

A threshold of a metric quantifying the separability of the water peak and the olefinic fat peaks was defined for the estimation of the vertebral bone marrow fat unsaturation from short‐echo time‐stimulated echo acquisition mode MRS. The proposed methodology shows that the assessment of vertebral bone marrow unsaturation is feasible with a short‐echo time‐stimulated echo acquisition mode MRS in subjects with a higher fat fraction.
Efficacy and safety of high infusion rate IVIG in CIDP
Authors: Jiang Yue , Mendoza Meg , Sarpong Evelyn , Mannan Shabber , Ng Eduardo , Katzberg Hans , Bril Vera , Barnett Carolina
Published: August 2020

Background

We aimed to determine the safety and tolerance of higher rates of infusion of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP).

Methods

Patients began infusions with 10% IVIG at the standard rate of 0.08 mL/kg/min. If tolerated, infusion rates were incrementally increased to 0.14 mL/kg/min. We considered the frequency of infusions with adverse events (AEs) as the primary outcome.

Results

Nineteen of 25 patients safely tolerated the maximum rate of 0.14 mL/kg/min. We observed 25 treatment‐related AEs (TAEs) over 13 infusions at standard or transitional rates, across seven patients. We observed no TAEs associated with the maximum infusion rate.

Conclusions

We found that 10% IVIG can be safely administered at a high infusion rate (0.14 ml/kg/min) in most CIDP patients, reducing the treatment time and burden on healthcare resources.
Modern Challenges to Gastrointestinal Nutrition Physicians and the Nutrition Support Team: Cautionary Tales and Call to Action
Authors: Palmer Lena B. , Limketkai Berkeley N.
Published: August 2020

The current climate of healthcare economics in the United States has imposed unprecedented market stressors on health institutions traditionally providing tertiary care to those with the most challenging healthcare needs. In such a stressed financial atmosphere, administrators look to streamline costs and cut margins as tightly as possible. This often results in restructuring, consolidating, or closing service lines that are perceived as unprofitable or unsupportable. Nutrition support often falls into this category because of few sources of direct revenue‐generating activities and poor reimbursement from third‐party payers. This article discusses the challenges to modern nutrition support teams, particularly those with gastroenterologists as physician leaders, and delineates market forces that need shifting to continue to make this a viable part of the healthcare system.
No room for failure: Investigating board leadership in nonprofit executive transitions
Authors: Stewart Amanda J. , Adams Thomas H. , McMillian Dennis , Burns Julia
Published: August 2020

Nonprofit boards are responsible for hiring executives, but may approach the task with limited guidance or experience. Evidence of a board's leadership during a transition is found in their recruitment job ad or the announcement they make about the new executive's appointment. Yet, we have limited empirical evidence of what happens behind closed doors as a transition is initiated and decisions are made. This study implemented a paired survey approach among a group of 94 organizational cases and their board members who recently were involved in a nonprofit executive transition. An initial survey was distributed when the board was in the midst or recently emerged from a transition, and a follow‐up was distributed a year later. Taken together, this descriptive, exploratory study offers insights about how boards face the daunting task of a leadership transition, including what boards prioritize for a transition's outcome and executive recruits, the reasons for the approach they take in fulfilling this governance responsibility, and the outcomes derived from the transition. The findings inform propositions to advance research on board governance at this critical juncture for nonprofits.
Saudi nursing students’ pain management knowledge and attitudes
Authors: Shdaifat Emad , Al‐Shdayfat Noha , Sudqi Abdallah
Published: August 2020

Aim

To evaluate the level and identify predictors of nursing students’ knowledge and attitudes of pain management.

Design

A cross‐sectional design was used to analyse nursing students’ knowledge and attitudes about pain management, with the Knowledge and Attitude Survey Regarding Pain (KASRP).

Methods

A self‐administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a convenient sample of Saudi nursing students. A total of 193 nursing students from a nursing school at a Saudi university completed the questionnaires.

Results

The student mean knowledge of pain management was 42.6 (SD 9.1) . The items answered correctly most frequently concerned pain medication and administration. On the other hand, the most commonly incorrect items were mainly related to assessment and pharmacological interventions. Logistic regression analysis found that gender was significantly associated with level of knowledge and attitudes regarding pain management.
Electrospun PGS/PCL nanofibers: From straight to sponge and spring‐like morphology
Authors: Fakhrali Aref , Semnani Dariush , Salehi Hossein , Ghane Mohammad
Published: August 2020

Poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is an attractive polymer that has many applications in medical fields, especially in tissue engineering. In this study, the influence of solvent system on electrospinnability, forming of bead‐free nanofibers and the morphology of PGS nanofibers was investigated and discussed. Among different solvents, the acidic solvent as a benign solvent was used for electrospinning. The steps were as follows: (a) Synthesis the PGS pre‐polymer and analysis its chemical structure by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR); (b) Electrospinning of the PGS by mixing PCL in eight different solvent systems; (c) evaluation the morphology of produced nanofibers using the scanning electron microscope (SEM); (d) the study of biocompatibility of produced nanofibers by MTT assay. The average diameter of nanofibers in different solvent systems turned out to vary from 260 ± 63 to 4588 ± 970 nm and nanofibers with different morphologies were produced by changing the solvent system. Among the produced straight nanofibers, the best samples were FA30,15 (formic acid), FA/AC30,15 (formic acid/Acetone), FA/AA30,15 (formic acid/acetic acid), CF/DMF20,15 (chloroform/N,N‐dimethylformamide), FA/AA35,15, and CF/DMF23,15, respectively (based on size and morphology). Also, the produced nanofibers in CF/ET (chloroform/ethanol) had a rough surface. When AA was used as solvent and polymer concentration was kept 35% w/v, sponge‐like scaffold was produced. Moreover, spring‐like nanofibers were fabricated by using DMF, (at 30% w/v) and AC (in all polymer concentrations). MTT results also demonstrated that CF/DMF20,15 as produced sample via hazardous solvents (class 3) is biocompatible. These scaffolds can be used in different tissue engineering applications according to their morphology.
How we approach Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children and young adults
Authors: Slayton William B. , Schultz Kirk R. , Silverman Lewis B. , Hunger Stephen P.
Published: August 2020

Treatment for children with Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia has changed radically over the past 20 years. This type of leukemia used to have dismal prognosis, but today cure rates have improved with combination of cytotoxic chemotherapy and a tyrosine kinase inhibitor such as imatinib or dasatinib, with hematopoietic stem cell transplant reserved for patients who are at high risk based on slow response to therapy or who relapse. Treating these patients can be challenging particularly if they are not enrolled on a clinical trial. Here, we describe our approach to these patients.
Multiphysical theoretical prediction and experimental verification of vibroacoustic responses of fruit fiber‐reinforced polymeric composite
Authors: Satankar Rajesh Kumar , Sharma Nitin , Panda Subrata Kumar
Published: August 2020

The acoustic parameters (sound power level and radiation efficiency) of harmonically excited natural fiber (Luffa cylindrica) reinforced polymer composite panel is predicted first time using a coupled finite and boundary element scheme including the mechanical characteristics. First, the frequency values of the freely vibrating Luffa fiber‐reinforced composite are obtained through a finite element solution considering the higher‐order polynomial kinematic theory to count the structural deformation. Further, the Helmholtz wave equation is solved to evaluate the acoustic data under the harmonic excitation. The proposed multiphysics model is taking care of the structure, the fluid medium and the coupling between them, which, in turn, allows to obtain the solution numerically for the final finished polymer composite product. Further, the model accuracy has been shown by comparing both frequency and sound radiation responses with available published results including the own experimental values. Moreover, the fruit extracted fiber reinforced polymer composite plate components are fabricated using different volume fractions of fiber content and utilized for the numerical analysis considering their experimental properties (mechanical and physical). Finally, the influences of the dimensional variable (aspect ratio, side to thickness ratio and support condition) on the acoustic radiation behavior of the fabricated composite have been examined thoroughly to show their possible real‐life applications.
Water‐soluble polyurethane/CaCO3 composites for gunpowder storage
Authors: Wondu Eyob , Lule Zelalem Chernet , Kim Jooheon
Published: August 2020

Modern research areas help develop environmentally benign storage materials in every industry. Herein, we envisage a water‐soluble polyurethane binder that can store gunpowder materials with the help of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as a trial experiment. We successfully fabricated water‐soluble polyurethane CaCO3 composites using the solution polymerization process. We have confirmed the structure of the fabricated composite with the help of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy noting the appearance of urethane linkage because of amine peaks at a wavenumber of 3200 to 3350 cm−1, and the results assert that the structure has been developed. The solubility of the composite in water was confirmed by identifying its hydrophilic properties with the help of contact angle measurements and solubilizing a known mass of the composite in water, then filtering the solution. The adherence and mechanical properties of the composites were studied by field emission scanning electron microscopy and universal testing machine, the results indicate that the polytetramethylene glycol surface‐treated CaCO3 particles well adhered to the matrix and demonstrated hugely improved tensile strength and Young's modulus. The thermal property of the composites was analyzed with the help of thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry.
Genetic diagnosis and clinical evaluation of severe fetal akinesia syndrome
Authors: Reischer Theresa , Liebmann‐Reindl Sandra , Bettelheim Dieter , Balendran‐Braun Sukirthini , Streubel Berthold
Published: August 2020

Objective

In this retrospective study, we describe the clinical course, ultrasound findings and genetic investigations of fetuses affected by fetal akinesia.

Materials and Methods

We enrolled 22 eukaryotic fetuses of 18 families, diagnosed with fetal akinesia between 2008 and 2016 at the Department of Obstetrics and Feto‐Maternal Medicine at the Medical University of Vienna. Routine genetic evaluation included karyotyping and chromosomal microarray analysis. Retrospectively, exome sequencing was performed in the index case of 11 families, if stored DNA was available. Confirmation analyses and genetic diagnosis of siblings were performed by using Sanger sequencing.

Results

Whole exome sequencing identified pathogenic variants of CNTN1, RYR1, NEB, GLDN, HRAS and TNNT3 in six cases of 11 families. In three of these families, the variants were confirmed in the respective sibling.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates a high diagnostic yield of exome sequencing in fetuses affected by akinesia syndrome, especially if family history is positive. Still, in a large part the underlying genetic cause remained unknown, whereas precise clinical evaluation in combination with exome sequencing shows to be the best tool to find the disease causing variants.
Numerical and experimental studies on the effect of thickness difference between up and down gas layers on sheet polymer gas‐assisted extrusion forming
Authors: Jiang Shi‐Yu , Liu He‐Sheng , Huang Xing‐Yuan , Yu Zhong , Wang Rui‐Zhe
Published: August 2020

In this study, to make gas‐assisted extrusion (GAE) can be better applied to conventional horizontal extrusion forming process, the thickness difference between up and down gas layer was simulated for the first time by GAE of molten high‐density polyethylene sheet. In order to ascertain the effects of the thickness difference of up and down gas layers on sheet extrusion molding, a method based on the model of two‐phase (gas and melt) flow was put forward, and an outer‐layer GAE isothermal numerical simulation made by POLYFLOW was explored and researched. The numerical results analysis indicated that when the thickness of down gas layer is increased, the velocities, pressure drop and shear rate of the melt increase. Compared with the simplified‐GAE simulation, GAE simulation method can well reflect the flow characteristics, the physical field distribution, and the morphology changes of melt extrudates. The experimental results show that with the increase of the thickness of the down gas layer, the melt falling can be obviously improved during extrusion. Thus, in the actual use of GAE for sheet production, not only the thickness difference between up and down gas layers should be reasonably controlled, but also other factors, such as melt inlet volume flow rate, gas pressure and temperature should be controlled accordingly. Finally, GAE forming technology can give full play to its advantages.
Conductivity–modulus–Tg relationships in solvent‐free, single lithium ion conducting network electrolytes
Authors: Shen Chengtian , Zhao Qiujie , Shan Naisong , Jing Brian B. , Evans Christopher M.
Published: August 2020

A model system of single‐ion conducting network electrolytes with acrylic backbone, ethylene oxide (EO) side chains, tethered fluorinated anions, and mobile Li cations was designed and synthesized to investigate structure–property relationships. By systematically tuning four molecular variables, one at a time, we investigated how crosslinker length, mol% of crosslinker added, Li:EO ratio and side‐chain length affect conductivity, Tg, and modulus. Ionic conductivity at 90 °C varied by two orders of magnitude (and by three orders of magnitude at room temperature) depending on the molecular details, while a 70 °C span in glass transition temperature (Tg) was observed. The range of crosslinking, which can be achieved without impacting conductivity was also elucidated, and the modulus of the electrolyte can be increased by a factor of 8, up to 2.4 MPa, without impacting ion transport. Changes in conductivity due to crosslink density and crosslinker length are fully explained in terms of Tg shifts, while comonomer length cannot be accounted for by such a shift. The best performing network exhibited 10−5 S/cm at high temperature, which is comparable to other single‐ion conductors reported in the literature, while the modulus is higher due to crosslinking. Adding 10 wt% propylene carbonate further increased this value to 10−4 S/cm. This work provides insights into the structure–property relationships of solid‐state polymer electrolytes, which retain conductivity but can potentially help suppress dendrites.
Analysis of transport phenomena during plasma deposition of hydrophobic coatings on porous cellulosic substrates in plane‐to‐plane dielectric barrier discharges at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Babaei Sara , Profili Jacopo , Asadollahi Siavash , Sarkassian Andranik , Dorris Annie , Beck Stephanie , Stafford Luc
Published: August 2020

In this study, four‐layer stacks of bleached, unrefined Kraft papers are exposed to a plane‐to‐plane dielectric barrier discharge at atmospheric pressure operated in a glow‐like discharge regime and sustained in a mixture of hexamethyldisiloxane and helium gases. Scanning electron microscopy confirms that the plasma‐deposited coating follows the roughness of the porous cellulosic substrate. Whereas fairly spatially homogeneous coatings are obtained on silicon, significant variations of the coatings' thickness, organic content, and water contact angle are observed along the gas flow lines on the Kraft paper. These effects are even more important in the presence of substrate outgassing. In addition, plasma‐generated species sequentially penetrate down to the fourth layer of the cellulosic substrate, rendering surfaces hydrophobic with very low water absorption kinetics.
Plasma‐assisted deposition of iron oxide thin films for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Bosso Piera , Milella Antonella , Barucca Gianni , Mengucci Paolo , Armenise Vincenza , Fanelli Fiorenza , Giannuzzi Roberto , Maiorano Vincenzo , Fracassi Francesco
Published: August 2020

Iron oxide thin films for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting were deposited by radiofrequency sputtering of an iron target in argon/oxygen plasma mixtures, followed by thermal annealing. The chemical composition and structure of deposited film can be tuned by controlling the gas feed composition and the annealing temperature. The thermal treatment extensively improves the PEC water splitting performances of the films deposited at the lowest O2 percentages (0–1%), allowing to obtain photocurrent densities up to 1.20 mA/cm2 at 1.23 VRHE. Increasing the oxygen percentage in the plasma feed allows the direct growth of photoactive films; the best result is found for the hematite film produced at 50% O2, characterized by a photocurrent density of 0.21 at 1.23 VRHE.
Lavender and coriander essential oils and their main component linalool exert a protective effect against amyloid‐β neurotoxicity
Authors: Caputo Lucia , Piccialli Ilaria , Ciccone Roselia , de Caprariis Paolo , Massa Antonio , De Feo Vincenzo , Pannaccione Anna
Published: August 2020

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder leading to cognitive deficits and cognitive decline. Since no cure or preventing therapy is currently available to counteract AD, natural‐derived compounds are investigated to find new potential neuroprotective agents for its treatment. In the present study, we tested the neuroprotective effect of lavender and coriander essential oils (EOs) and their main active constituent linalool, against the neurotoxicity elicited by Aβ1‐42 oligomers, a key molecular factor in the neurodegeneration of AD. Importantly, our findings on neuronally differentiated PC12 cells exposed to Aβ1‐42 oligomers are in accordance with previous in vivo studies reporting the neuroprotective potential of lavender and coriander EOs and linalool. We found that lavender and coriander EOs at the concentration of 10 μg/mL as well as linalool at the same concentration were able to improve viability and to reduce nuclear morphological abnormalities in cells treated with Aβ1‐42 oligomers for 24 hours. Lavender and coriander EOs and linalool also showed to counteract the increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species production and the activation of the pro‐apoptotic enzyme caspase‐3 induced by Aβ1‐42 oligomers. Our findings provide further evidence that these EOs and their main constituent linalool could be natural agents of therapeutic interest against Aβ1‐42‐induced neurotoxicity.
Performance of the MEWMA‐CoDa control chart in the presence of measurement errors
Authors: Zaidi Fatima Sehar , Castagliola Philippe , Tran Kim Phuc , Khoo Michael Boon Chong
Published: August 2020

This paper can be considered as an extension of the work of Tran et al (for monitoring compositional data using a multivariate exponentially weighted moving average MEWMA‐compositional data [CoDa] chart) by taking into account potential measurement errors that are known to highly affect production processes. A linearly covariate error model with a constant error variance is used to study the impact of measurement errors on the MEWMA‐CoDa control chart. In particular, the influence of the device parameters (σM,b), the number of independent observationsm, and the the number of variablespare investigated in terms of the MEWMA optimal couples (r,H) as well as in terms of their corresponding ARLs. A comparison between the Hotelling‐CoDaT2and the proposed chart is made in order to show that the MEWMA‐CoDa chart is more efficient in detecting shifts in the presence of measurement errors. A real‐life example of muesli production, using multiple measurements for each composition, is used to estimate the parameters and also to demonstrate how the MEWMA‐CoDa can handle measurement errors to detect shifts in the process.
An isotope ratio mass spectrometry‐based method for hydrogen isotopic analysis in sub‐microliter volumes of water: Application for multi‐isotope investigations of gases extracted from fluid inclusions
Authors: Buikin Alexei Ivanovich , Kuznetsova Olga Vitalievna , Velivetskaya Tatiana Alexeevna , Sevastyanov Vyacheslav Sergeevich , Ignatiev Alexander Vasilievich
Published: August 2020

Rationale

The study of multi‐isotope systematics of fluid inclusions is of great importance for understanding of the sources and evolution of fluid phases in mantle rocks and ore deposits. The most appropriate technique for such investigations is a (stepwise) crushing method that is widely used for noble gases and nitrogen. However, because of the possible influence of mechanochemical reactions and back sorption, analyses of the isotope composition of water extracted by crushing from fluid inclusions are challenging.

Methods

An isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS)‐based method for hydrogen (and oxygen) isotopic analysis in sub‐microliter volumes of water extracted from fluid inclusions by crushing is presented. The verification of the possible influence of adsorption processes and mechanochemical reactions on the results of isotope analysis was performed for the first time. For that a series of parallel analyses of hydrogen isotopic ratios from water inclusions in quartz applying physically different extraction methods (crushing and thermodecrepitation) was conducted.

Results

Four series of quartz aliquots were analyzed: three series extracting water by crushing (two series for δ2H values and one for δ18O values) and one by thermodecrepitation. The mean value for the crushing results is δ2H = −85.3 ± 3.6 ‰ (1σ, n = 11), which coincides well with the thermodecrepitation data (−86.3 ± 2.0 ‰, 1σ, n = 5), suggesting that our methodological approach allows the influence of back sorption or mechanochemical reactions during the crushing experiment to be minimized. The reproducibility of the oxygen isotopic ratios is ±0.9 ‰ (1σ, n = 5).

Conclusions

The conducted experiments have shown that the influence of back sorption or mechanochemical reactions during crushing on isotopic results is not crucial for our method. The developed IRMS‐based method for hydrogen (and oxygen) isotopic analysis in sub‐microliter volumes of water is well applicable for multi‐isotope investigations of gases extracted from fluid inclusions. As an application a well‐defined 40Ar/36Ar–δ2H correlation in mantle rocks is presented for the first time.
Experimental investigation of a twisted string actuation for usage in active catheter
Authors: Yan Lutao , Wang Qi , Li Haiyuan , Zhang Qinjian
Published: August 2020

Background

The improvement of the steerability and controllability of catheters is highly required because catheter‐based interventional diagnosis and therapy have become increasingly popular. However, active catheters are often complex and expensive.

Methods

This study attempts to control catheter tip by a twisted string actuator. Experiments are carried out to analyze the full actuation and bending characteristics of the active catheter.

Results

It is indicated that the expected bending motion can be achieved by twisting the strings. Hysteresis behavior in backward and forward motion is also discussed. High repetitive positional accuracy and reverse position accuracy can be obtained when the number of rotation is low. When the number of turns is 25, the maximum tip position errors are 4, 1.8 and 1 mm in X, Y and Z directions, respectively.

Conclusion

It is expected that the presented method will prove useful for the application of twisted string active catheter.
Abundance of cell‐free mitochondrial DNA in spent culture medium associated with morphokinetics and blastocyst collapse of expanded blastocysts
Authors: Kobayashi Mitsuru , Kobayashi Junichi , Shirasuna Koumei , Iwata Hisataka
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This retrospective observational study investigated relationships between the abundance of cell‐free mitochondrial DNA (cf‐mtDNA) in spent culture medium (SCM) of human‐expanded blastocysts and their morphokinetics to address the question of whether the abundance of cf‐mtDNA in SCM could predict the quality of blastocysts.

Methods

Embryos (n = 53) were individually cultured in a time‐lapse incubator until they reached the expanded blastocyst stage (5 or 6 days), following which copy numbers of cf‐mtDNA in SCM (20 μL) of expanded blastocysts were determined using real‐time PCR.

Results

The duration between start of blastulation to expanded blastocyst (tEB–tSB) and between that of the blastocyst stage to expanded blastocyst (tEB–tB) significantly and positively correlated with the abundance of cf‐mtDNA in the SCM (tEB–tSB: r = .46; P < .01; tEB–tB: r = .47; P < .01). The abundance of cf‐mtDNA in the SCM was significantly greater in blastocysts with blastocyst collapse (BC), than without BC, and significantly and positively correlated with the number of BC.

Conclusions

The abundance of cf‐mtDNA in the SCM was associated with expansion duration and BC. Thus, cf‐mtDNA abundance in the SCM serves as a marker to predict the quality of expanded blastocysts.
Self‐reliant rovers for increased mission productivity
Authors: Gaines Daniel , Doran Gary , Paton Michael , Rothrock Brandon , Russino Joseph , Mackey Ryan , Anderson Robert , Francis Raymond , Joswig Chet , Justice Heather , Kolcio Ksenia , Rabideau Gregg , Schaffer Steve , Sawoniewicz Jacek , Vasavada Ashwin , Wong Vincent , Yu Kathryn , Agha‐mohammadi Ali‐akbar
Published: August 2020

Achieving consistently high levels of productivity has been a challenge for Mars surface missions. While the rovers have made major discoveries and dramatically increased our understanding of Mars, they require a great deal of interaction from the operations teams, and achieving mission objectives can take longer than anticipated when productivity is paced by the ground teams' ability to react. We have conducted a project to explore technologies and techniques for creating self‐reliant rovers (SRR): rovers that are able to maintain high levels of productivity with reduced reliance on ground interactions. This paper describes the design of SRR and a prototype implementation that we deployed on a research rover. We evaluated the system by conducting a simulated campaign in which members of the Mars Science Laboratory (Curiosity rover) science team used our rover to explore a geographical region. The evaluation demonstrated the system's ability to maintain high levels of productivity with limited communication with operators.
Dismantling the Fragility Index: A demonstration of statistical reasoning
Authors: Potter Gail E.
Published: August 2020

The Fragility Index has been introduced as a complement to theP‐value to summarize the statistical strength of evidence for a trial's result. The Fragility Index (FI) is defined in trials with two equal treatment group sizes, with a dichotomous or time‐to‐event outcome, and is calculated as the minimum number of conversions from nonevent to event in the treatment group needed to shift theP‐value from Fisher's exact test over the .05 threshold. As the index lacks a well‐defined probability motivation, its interpretation is challenging for consumers. We clarify what the FI may be capturing by separately considering two scenarios: (a) what the FI is capturing mathematically when the probability model is correct and (b) how well the FI captures violations of probability model assumptions. By calculating the posterior probability of a treatment effect, we show that when the probability model is correct, the FI inappropriately penalizes small trials for using fewer events than larger trials to achieve the same significance level. The analysis shows that for experiments conducted without bias, the FI promotes an incorrect intuition of probability, which has not been noted elsewhere and must be dispelled. We illustrate shortcomings of the FI's ability to quantify departures from model assumptions and contextualize the FI concept within current debate around the null hypothesis significance testing paradigm. Altogether, the FI creates more confusion than it resolves and does not promote statistical thinking. We recommend against its use. Instead, sensitivity analyses are recommended to quantify and communicate robustness of trial results.
Design, Synthesis and Properties of Novel BODIPY Dyes With Styryl as π‐Bridge at 3,5‐Positions
Authors: Xu Jian , Zong Qiao , Peng Shengming , Liao Junxu , Zhao Hongbin , Kong Haojun , Xu Junhao
Published: August 2020

Three novel D−A‐D type small molecules Boron Fluoride Complexed Dipyridylmethine (BODIPY), BDP1‐3, linked through styryl with various strong electron donor units, such as carbazole, phenothiazine, fluorene, were designed and synthesized. The results suggest that the donor have significant effect on their photophysical and electrochemical properties. All these BDP1‐3 exhibit the obvious broader and red‐shifted absorption, the molecular absorption spectrum to range of 300–700 nm and the high molar extinction coefficients. The highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMU) energy level of them are calculated to be −5.18 eV and −3.21 eV, respectively. The broad and intense absorption, suitable HOMO‐LUMO energy levels make BDP1‐3 potential candidates for light‐harvesting and photovoltaic application.
Fe‐Pd‐Immobilized Al‐Pillared Laponite Clay as an Efficient Catalyst for the Conversion of Furfural into Tetrahydrofurfuryl Alcohol
Authors: Arumugam Selvamani , Kuppan Jayaprakash , Devaraj Murugan , Arumugam Sivasamy
Published: August 2020

Furfural has been widely reported as a new‐generation renewable source for the production of chemicals and fuels. In this study, Fe−Pd immobilized Al‐pillared laponite clay material with suitable catalytic properties was explored as an efficient catalyst for the direct conversion of furfural (FAL) into tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol (THFOL) under the mild reaction conditions (H2 pressure‐ 10 bar, temperature‐ 60 °C and time‐ 4 hrs). The synthesized samples were characterized by several physico–chemical techniques. XRD, FT‐IR, H2‐TPR and ICP‐OES results revealed the successful loading of those bi‐metals into the Al‐pillared laponite structure. Acidity of the sample has been thoroughly investigated by NH3‐TPD and FT‐IR techniques. The catalytic activity of synthesized samples was thoroughly evaluated for the total hydrogenation of FAL for the production of THFOL. It was observed that pure Fe−Pd catalyst showed very low FAL conversion (∼53 %) and THFOL selectivity (∼38 %), whereas the Al‐pillared laponite clay supported Fe−Pd catalyst showed an increase in the FAL conversion and THFOL selectivity up to 95 % and 98 %, respectively. The high performance of Fe−Pd/Al‐pillared laponite catalyst towards the formation of THFOL is not only ascribed to the fine dispersion of Fe and Pd species and their synergistic effect but also due to the high surface area, mesoporosity and suitable acidity of Al‐pillared laponite. The recyclability of the catalyst was also explored thoroughly which confirmed their stability. Sustainability of this process lies in the utilization of low‐value bio‐derived FAL for the production of industrially important THFOL chemical.
Semi‐supervised joint learning for longitudinal clinical events classification using neural network models
Authors: Tang Weijing , Ma Jiaqi , Waljee Akbar K. , Zhu Ji
Published: August 2020

The success of deep learning neural network models often relies on the accessibility of a large number of labelled training data. In many health care settings, however, only a small number of accurately labelled data are available while unlabelled data are abundant. Further, input variables such as clinical events in the medical settings are usually of longitudinal nature, which poses additional challenges. In this paper, we propose a semi‐supervised joint learning method for classifying longitudinal clinical events. Specifically, our model consists of a sequence generative model and a label prediction model, and the two parts are learned end to end using both labelled and unlabelled data in a joint manner to obtain better prediction performance. Using five mortality‐related classification tasks on the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC) III database, we demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the purely supervised method that uses labelled data only and existing two‐step semi‐supervised methods.
Localizing software performance regressions in web applications by comparing execution timelines
Authors: Ocariza Frolin S. , Zhao Boyang
Published: August 2020

A performance regression in software is defined as an increase in an application step's response time as a result of code changes. Detecting such regressions can be done using profiling tools; however, investigating their root cause is a mostly‐manual and time‐consuming task. This statement holds true especially when comparing execution timelines, which are dynamic function call trees augmented with response time data; these timelines are compared to find the performance regression‐causes – the lowest‐level function calls that regressed during execution. When done manually, these comparisons often require the investigator to analyze thousands of function call nodes. Further, performing these comparisons on web applications is challenging due to JavaScript's asynchronous and event‐driven model, which introduce noise in the timelines. In response, we propose a design – Zam – that automatically compares execution timelines collected from web applications, to identify performance regression‐causes. Our approach uses a hybrid node matching algorithm that recursively attempts to find the longest common subsequence in each call tree level, then aggregates multiple comparisons' results to eliminate noise. Our evaluation of Zam on 10 web applications indicates that it can identify performance regression‐causes with a path recall of 100% and a path precision of 96%, while performing comparisons in under a minute on average. We also demonstrate the real‐world applicability of Zam, which has been used to successfully complete performance investigations by the performance and reliability team in SAP.
Electrochemical methods for on‐site corrosion detection
Authors: Andrade Carmen
Published: August 2020

The corrosion mechanism is of electrochemical nature and then, electrochemical techniques are the most adequate to measure the process and quantify it. In present paper are briefly described the most applied on site: corrosion potential, resistivity, galvanic current, and polarization resistance. In general, due to the difficulty to measure quasi‐infinite in size reinforcement, the measurements are made on probes embedded in the cover attached to the bars. From the techniques used, only linear polarization is quantitative. Corrosion potential provides information about the corrosion risk, and resistivity is directly related with the concrete water content. The galvanic current is misleading if real size of anode and cathode are unknown. Although, frequently mistaken, galvanic current is not equal to corrosion rate and reference to areas involved is needed. Two examples are described on the monitoring of these methods.
Finite element analysis of interior slab‐column connections strengthened by steel angle plates
Authors: Taresh Hussein R. , Md Yatim Mohd Yazmil , Azmi Mohd Reza
Published: August 2020

This paper is concerned with the finite element modeling of strengthened interior slab‐column connections in the existing continuous flat slab structural system by employing steel angle plates at the slab‐column junctions and fastened by shear bolts. This technique utilizes the advantage of combined action between the angle plates and bolts in resisting shear particularly at the slab‐column edges. Three‐dimensional analysis was carried out on such slabs employing concrete damaged plasticity model in ABAQUS to investigate their performance in terms of punching shear resistance, load–displacement response, and crack pattern at failure. The numerical models were first validated against the experimental results reported by other researchers. The proposed strengthening technique results in a substantial increase of load‐carrying capacity ranging from about 59 to 79% compared to the unstrengthened slab, and has also provided better stiffness, ductility and energy absorption in the slab system that change the mode of failure from a pure punching shear to flexural failure. The finite element results are compared with the calculated values according to provisions in the current design codes for evaluation purposes. A simple but reliable approach which is based on yield line theory to estimate the flexural capacity of the strengthened slabs is also outlined in this paper.
Design of post‐installed and cast‐in‐place anchors according to the newEN1992‐4 andACI318‐19
Authors: Mahrenholtz Philipp , Wood Richard L.
Published: August 2020

Post‐installed and cast‐in‐place anchors are widely used to connect structural or nonstructural elements using a steel baseplate at the concrete structure. Generally, concrete anchors must be qualified if their failure would compromise the safety or result in substantial economic damage. Concrete anchor qualification results in technical approvals forming the basis for a code‐compliant design. In Europe, anchor design is governed by the new standard EN 1992‐4, and in the United States by ACI 318. Qualification and design regulations are predominately similar between Europe and the United States; however, there are still some notable differences. To this end, this paper introduces the basics of anchor design and underlying product qualification. Then, it describes some of the boundary conditions with special attention to the baseplate as well as discusses the critical design parameters. Later, the paper provides a comprehensive overview of the complex design rules. This paper includes identification of the differences between EN 1992‐4 and ACI 318 and their resultant effect on anchor design.
Analytical Average Torque Optimization Method of Parallel Magnetized Surface‐Mounted Permanent‐Magnet Machine with Third‐Order Harmonic Shaping Method
Authors: Hu Pengfei , Wang Dong
Published: August 2020

On the basis of existing studies presented in literature on optimizing permanent magnet (PM) shaping with third harmonic for the tile‐shaped magnetic poles under radial magnetization, this paper proposes a method for PM shape optimization using third harmonic for bread‐shaped magnetic pole under parallel magnetization. Furthermore, the optimal value of third harmonic that should be injected for achieving maximum torque output of a surface‐mounted permanent‐magnet (SPM) motor under parallel magnetization is obtained. The accuracy of the analytical calculation is verified using the finite element method. Furthermore, electromagnetic properties, including back‐EMF waveform, cogging torque, average torque, and torque ripple of the SPM motor obtained under different PM shaping conditions, i.e., without PM shaping, sinusoidal PM shaping, and sinusoidal PM shaping with third harmonic are compared. The comparison results indicate that injecting the optimal value of third harmonic into the PM being subject to sinusoidal shaping can greatly improve the average torque and power density of the SPM motor without increasing the torque ripple. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Individual‐level variability among trust criteria relevant to zoos and aquariums
Authors: Dwyer Joseph de la Torre , Fraser John , Voiklis John , Thomas Uduak Grace
Published: August 2020

Prior research into the conceptual underpinnings of the public's institutional trust in zoos and aquariums has suggested a range of ethical dimensions that set these types of cultural institutions apart from others in the museum sector. As the recognized holders, care‐takers, and nurturers of wild animals, zoos and aquariums are sustained at least in part by the public's perception that these activities are legitimate pursuits and essential to the long‐term conservation of the natural world. This paper builds on recent research that identified the ethical dimensions of trust in zoos and aquariums and assessed their distribution among the U.S. public by analyzing survey responses with respect to the importance of trust criteria. We hypothesized that distinct clusters of individuals, as defined by their response to trust criteria items, would emerge and that these clusters would prioritize different dimensions in their trust of zoos and aquariums. Using k‐means clustering, we identified four relevant clusters of individuals on seven dimensions of institutional trust in zoos and aquariums. Based on these clusters, we suggest strategies for addressing what may be necessary for zoos and aquariums to claim authority as agents promoting conservation behaviors in society.
Janus interface entropy and Calabi’s diastasis in four-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 superconformal field theories
Authors: Goto Kanato , Nagano Lento , Nishioka Tatsuma , Okuda Takuya
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We study the entropy associated with the Janus interface in a 4d

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 superconformal field theory. With the entropy defined as the interface contribution to an entanglement entropy we show, under mild assumptions, that the Janus interface entropy is proportional to the geometric quantity called Calabi’s diastasis on the space of

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 marginal couplings, confirming an earlier conjecture by two of the authors and generalizing a similar result in two dimensions. Our method is based on a CFT consideration that makes use of the Casini-Huerta-Myers conformal map from the flat space to the round sphere.