bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety, tolerability, and efficacy evaluation of the SlimME device for circumference reduction
Authors: Ferrando Giovanni
Published: February 2018

Objective

To assess the short‐ and long‐term thermal impact of subclinical and clinical regimens of a single, non‐invasive uniform ultrasound treatment session on subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT).

Study Design

Prospective, open‐label, single‐arm, split‐side study.

Methods

Patients (n = 17) were subjected to uniform ultrasound treatment, delivered in a single session with the SlimME device. The device was set to one of four treatment regimens, which differed in their durations and energy fluences during the raise and maintenance phases. Up to six abdominal regions were treated, with six patients receiving a different treatment on each side of the abdomen. Safety was assessed by measuring skin surface temperature, evaluating expected skin responses immediately and 30 min after treatment and via patient ratings of pain and discomfort. Efficacy of raising and then maintaining SAT temperatures at 48°C, was determined by routinely measuring SAT temperatures during the treatment session and by histological analysis of samples collected 7 (n = 13) or 90 (n = 4) days after treatment.

Results

Trace to mild erythema was observed in up to 48% of the treated zones, which, in most cases, resolved within 30 minutes. No significant rise in mean skin surface temperature (≤26.5°C) was recorded following any of the four tested regimens. Overall, patients reported tolerability to treatment, with the highest mean pain score registered for the moderate and high intensity regimens (4.4 ± 1.5 and 4.9 ± 1.4, respectively). Mean SAT temperatures did not exceed 48.4 ± 2.5°C and were effectively maintained throughout the maintenance phase of the treatment session. Low‐energy fluence led to localized fat coagulative necrotic lesions, surrounded by subacute rim of inflammation, while high‐energy fluence induced fat coagulative necrosis alongside granulomatous panniculitis, which resolved within 90 days.

Conclusion

The tested uniform ultrasound regimens elicited SAT temperature elevations, with a subsequent energy‐dependent increase in degree of fat necrosis. At the same time, the unique design spared the surrounding tissue from thermal damage and was associated with minimal discomfort. Taken together, the SlimME device constitutes an effective tool for destruction of stubborn hypodermal fat deposits. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:745–754, 2018. © 2018 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Water Soluble Antioxidant Dextran–Quercetin Conjugate with Potential Anticancer Properties
Authors: Oliver Susan , Yee Eugene , Kavallaris Maria , Vittorio Orazio , Boyer Cyrille
Published: February 2018

Quercetin, a naturally occurring potent antioxidant, is limited in therapeutic use, owing to its poor water solubility and stability. Herein, a method of conjugating quercetin to an aldehyde functionalized dextran via an HCl catalyzed condensation reaction to yield a water soluble quercetin functionalized polymer is reported. The prepared conjugate is characterized by 1H and 1H‐13C heteronuclear single quantum correlation (HSQC) NMR, which demonstrate that conjugation occurs via both the A‐ and B‐rings of quercetin. The degree of quercetin functionalization can be tuned by varying the reaction temperature and/or the concentration of the HCl catalyst. However, as temperatures and HCl concentrations are increased above 40 °C and 2 m, respectively, the increase in functionalization is accompanied by an increase in the oxidation of the conjugated quercetin and a decrease in polymer yield. The prepared conjugate is shown to have improved stability compared with native quercetin while maintaining substantial free‐radical scavenging activity. Anticancer activity is evaluated in vitro in a neuroblastoma cell line. The dextran–aldehyde–quercetin conjugate prepared at 40 °C and 2 m HCl is shown to be cytotoxic to neuroblastoma cells (SH‐SY5Y–IC50 = 123 µg mL−1 and BE(2)‐C–IC50 = 380 µg mL−1) but shows no activity against nonmalignant MRC‐5 cells at concentrations up to 400 µg mL−1.
Thermoresponsive Microspheres as Smart Pore Plugs: Self‐Venting Clothing Membranes for Smart Outdoor Textiles
Authors: Stucki Mario , Stöckli Marco , Stark Wendelin J.
Published: February 2018

Rapidly changing temperature and precipitation conditions are challenging for clothing textiles when required to keep us warm under harsh weather. A smart functional outdoor membrane based on thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) microspheres embedded into a polyurethane matrix is developed. Selective dissolution of two‐particle composite precursors affords porous membranes with PNIPAM microspheres located within the pore walls. Adjusting the mean size of the thermoresponsive microplug permits us to switch membrane breathability depending on outdoor temperature. In cold conditions, the textile fabric closes off pores and reduces heat loss, as to keep a person warmer. Under hot conditions, the PNIPAM microplugs open up, and self‐vent the jacket, allowing for high breathability and heat transfer. The resulting smart membranes are tested according to international standards. The principle of phase separation based microplug positioning within pores, and selective opening and closing of pores may enable other smart applications in material sciences, biology, and other consumer products.
Fibers with Hyper‐Crosslinked Functional Porous Frameworks
Authors: Sheng Yujie , Chen Qibin , Mahurin Shannon M. , Mayes Richard T. , Zhan Wangchen , Zhang Jinshui , Liu Honglai , Dai Sheng
Published: February 2018

The incorporation of robust porous frameworks into polymer fibers with handleable morphologies and flexible chemical compositions exhibits significant advantages for device fabrication in a wide range of applications. However, the soft linear polymeric chains of the fibers make the generation of nanopores extremely challenging. Herein, a facile synthetic strategy based on a combination of functional monomer grafting and hyper‐crosslinking technology is developed for the porous engineering of polymeric fibers. In this methodology, the nanoporous framework originating from the hyper‐crosslinking of aromatic monomers is covalently grafted onto fibers, which is beneficial to retaining their unique fiber morphology and to preserving their excellent mechanical properties. Moreover, this promising protocol can be further extended to the porous functionalization of polymeric matrices with diverse morphologies for target‐specific applications.
A Feynman integral in Lifshitz‐point and Lorentz‐violating theories in
Authors: Paris R. B. , Shpot M. A.
Published: February 2018

We evaluate a 1‐loop, 2‐point, massless Feynman integral ID,m(p,q) relevant for perturbative field theoretic calculations in strongly anisotropic d=D+m dimensional spaces given by the direct sum
. Our results are valid in the whole convergence region of the integral for generic (noninteger) codimensions D and m. We obtain series expansions of ID,m(p,q) in terms of powers of the variable X:=4p2/q4, where p=|p|, q=|q|,
,
, and in terms of generalised hypergeometric functions 3F2(−X), when X<1. These are subsequently analytically continued to the complementary region X≥1. The asymptotic expansion in inverse powers of X1/2 is derived. The correctness of the results is supported by agreement with previously known special cases and extensive numerical calculations.
Meeting the meiotic challenge: Specializations in mammalian oocyte spindle formation
Authors: Severance Ashley L. , Latham Keith E.
Published: February 2018

Oocytes uniquely accumulate cytoplasmic constituents to support early embryogenesis. This unique specialization is accompanied by acquisition of a large size and by execution of asymmetric meiotic divisions that preserve precious ooplasm through the expulsion of minimal size polar bodies. While often taken for granted, these basic features of oogenesis necessitate unique specializations of the meiotic apparatus. These include a chromatin‐sourced RanGTP gradient that restricts spindle size by defining a spatial domain where meiotic spindles form, acentriolar centrosomes that rely on microtubule organizing centers to form spindle poles, and an actin‐based mechanism for asymmetric spindle positioning. Additionally, localized protein synthesis to support spindle formation is achieved in the spindle forming region, whilst protein synthesis is reduced elsewhere in the ooplasm. This is achieved through enrichment of spindle‐related mRNAs in the spindle forming region combined with local PLK1‐mediated phosphorylation and inactivation of the translational repressor EIF4EBP1. This allows PLK1 to function as an important regulatory nexus through which endogenous and exogenous signals can impact spindle formation and function, and highlights the important role that PLK1 may have in maintaining oocyte quality and fertility.
Regulation of Molecular Weight Characteristics and Microtacticity of Polyhexene Produced over Highly Active Supported Titanium–Magnesium Catalysts
Authors: Echevskaya Ludmila , Zakharov Vladimir , Matsko Mikhail , Nikolaeva Marina
Published: February 2018

The data on the effect of polymerization temperature of 1‐hexene within the 30–70 °C range in the presence of a highly active supported titanium–magnesium catalyst on molecular weight characteristics and microtacticity of polyhexene, with cocatalyst composition being additionally varied (AlEt3 or Al(i‐Bu)3), in the absence and presence of an external stereoregulating electron‐donating compound and hydrogen, are reported. Polymerization conditions, making it possible to specifically regulate molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of polyhexene over a broad range ((Mw = 7 × 104–2.2 × 106 g mol−1; Mw/Mn = 3.7–33) and regulate isotacticity of polyhexene (content of mmmm pentads from 56% to 96%), while retaining high catalyst activity, are determined.
Characterization of voiding function and structural bladder changes in a rat model of neurogenic underactive bladder disease
Authors: Weyne Emmanuel , Dewulf Karel , Deruyer Yves , Rietjens Roma , Everaerts Wouter , Bivalacqua Trinity J. , De Ridder Dirk , Van der Aa Frank , Albersen Maarten
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To create an animal model for neurogenic underactive bladder disease (UAB) and identify markers to describe secondary myogenic changes in the bladder wall.

Materials and Methods

Male rats underwent either bilateral pelvic nerve injury or sham surgery. Four weeks after surgery functional evaluation was performed and tissue was harvested. Functional evaluation consisted of analysis of voiding pattern, 24‐h urine collection in a metabolic cage, in vivo cystometry and in‐vitro contractile function assessment. PCR and immunohistochemical localization of different smooth muscle cell and extracellular matrix markers was performed on bladder strips.

Results

After pelvic nerve injury, dry bladder weight increased and voiding contractions were absent, resulting in overflow incontinence. In‐vitro contractile response to carbachol was decreased. This was paired with an upregulation of synthetic smooth muscle cell (SMC) markers mRNA expression such as retinol binding protein 1 (RBP1), myosin 10 (MYH10) and osteopontin (OPN), and a downregulation of contractile SMC marker smoothelin (SMTL). The SMTL/OPN mRNA ratio was 50 times higher in sham bladders compared to PNI bladders.

Conclusions

The loss of in‐vivo and in‐vitro contractile function following pelvic nerve transection is characterized by a switch from a contractile to synthetic SMC phenotype, which is best characterized by the ratio SMTL/OPN mRNA expression. Modulating this phenotypical switch is a potential target for the development of UAB therapy. We suggest for the first time a set of markers that may be useful to evaluate therapeutic strategies on improvements in bladder wall structure.
Staggered discontinuous Galerkin methods for the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations: Spectral analysis and computational results
Authors: Dumbser M. , Fambri F. , Furci I. , Mazza M. , Serra‐Capizzano S. , Tavelli M.
Published: February 2018

The goal of this paper is to create a fruitful bridge between the numerical methods for approximating PDEs in fluid dynamics and the (iterative) numerical methods for dealing with the resulting large linear systems. Among the main objectives are the design of new, efficient iterative solvers and a rigorous analysis of their convergence speed. The link we have in mind is either the structure or the hidden structure that the involved coefficient matrices inherit, both from the continuous PDE and from the approximation scheme; in turn, the resulting structure is used for deducing spectral information, crucial for the conditioning and convergence analysis and for the design of more efficient solvers.

As a specific problem, we consider the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations; as a numerical technique, we consider a novel family of high‐order, accurate discontinuous Galerkin methods on staggered meshes, and as tools, we use the theory of Toeplitz matrices generated by a function (in the most general block, the multilevel form) and the more recent theory of generalized locally Toeplitz matrix sequences. We arrive at a somehow complete picture of the spectral features of the underlying matrices, and this information is employed for giving a forecast of the convergence history of the conjugate gradient method, together with a discussion on new and more advanced techniques (involving preconditioning, multigrid, multi‐iterative solvers). Several numerical tests are provided and critically illustrated in order to show the validity and the potential of our analysis.
Effect of carbon fiber‐graphene oxide multiscale reinforcements on the thermo‐mechanical properties of polyurethane elastomer
Authors: Jiang Shuai , He Zhenglong , Li Qifeng , Wang Junwei , Wu Gangping , Zhao Yuhua , Kang Maoqing
Published: February 2018

Thermo‐mechanical properties are often the bottleneck for advanced applications of polyurethane (PU) elastomer materials. Carbon materials are emerging as promising reinforcing fillers for polymers due to their superior mechanical and conductive properties. In this study, carbon fiber‐graphene oxide (CF‐GO) multiscale reinforcements are fabricated for improving thermal‐mechanical properties of PU elastomers. To this end, CFs are firstly modified with GO via electrophoretic deposition and subsequently cooperate with free‐dispersed GO sheets in PU matrix. This multiscale reinforcing strategy effectively improved thermo‐mechanical properties and thermal stability of PU elastomer due to the improved CF‐PU interfacial interaction as well as the local stiffening of fiber‐matrix interphase by the dispersed GO sheets. This reinforcing approach also led to a synergistic increase in the thermal diffusivity of PU elastomer due to the formation of interconnected conductive network, in which CFs serve as a conductive framework that connects the free‐dispersed GO sheets. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E953–E961, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Professional development to increase teacher behavior‐specific praise: A single‐case design replication
Authors: Gage Nicholas A. , Grasley‐Boy Nicolette M. , MacSuga‐Gage Ashley S.
Published: February 2018

Effective classroom instruction is contingent upon successful classroom management. Unfortunately, not all teachers successfully manage classroom behavior and need in‐service professional development. In this study, we replicated a targeted professional development approach that included a brief one‐on‐one training session and emailed visual performance feedback to increase novice teachers’ use of behavior‐specific praise, an evidence‐based classroom management skill. Dependent variables collected through direct observation included teachers’ behavior‐specific praise along with average student engagement and disruptions. Four elementary teachers participated and, based on a multiple‐baseline single‐case design, we found a functional relationship between the targeted professional development and teachers’ increased use of behavior‐specific praise. However, because of variability and one teacher's limited response, effect sizes were small for behavior‐specific praise and little change was observed in student behaviors. These findings warrant further research to determine which classroom management skills affect student behaviors overall, as well as continued evaluation of this professional development model and using school‐based coaches.
Self‐management as a class‐wide intervention: An evaluation of the “Self & Match” system embedded within a dependent group contingency
Authors: Bulla Andrew J. , Frieder Jessica E.
Published: February 2018

Teachers are responsible for providing an education to students of all ability levels. Recent data suggest that roughly 95% of students with a disability are receiving some form of education in their general education setting. Individuals with disabilities tend to engage in higher levels of disruptive behaviors (e.g., talking out in class, noncompliance, throwing materials) than peers without disabilities. With an increase in the number of students with disabilities receiving some form of education in their general education setting, teachers may be spending more time managing disruptive behaviors and less time teaching. Research suggests a strong relationship between classroom‐management techniques and academic achievement. These data highlight the importance of classroom‐management interventions that promote the learning of all students in the classroom. Despite the importance of classroom‐management techniques, a lack of training, as well as the feasibility of the interventions may prevent the ultimate adoption and long‐term success of effective techniques. Self‐management is a potential solution, as self‐management techniques can be easily trained and implemented.
The influence of test‐based accountability policies on early elementary teachers: School climate, environmental stress, and teacher stress
Authors: Saeki Elina , Segool Natasha , Pendergast Laura , von der Embse Nathaniel
Published: February 2018

This study examined the potential influence of test‐based accountability policies on school environment and teacher stress among early elementary teachers. Structural equation modeling of data from 541 kindergarten through second grade teachers across three states found that use of student performance on high‐stakes tests to evaluate teachers indirectly was related to teachers’ professional investment via test stress in the environment. Although students in kindergarten through second grade do not take high‐stakes assessments, early elementary teachers reported high levels of stress associated with test‐based accountability policies. This study provides data across multiple states that test‐based accountability policies may have negative influences on school environment and teacher stress among early elementary teachers. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Deformation of elastomeric pyramid pen arrays in cantilever‐free scanning probe lithography
Authors: Liu Shuangping , Olvera de la Cruz Monica
Published: February 2018

Cantilever‐free scanning probe lithography (SPL) employs soft elastomeric pen arrays to deliver material or energy to a surface to achieve a high‐resolution, high‐throughput, and low‐cost nanopatterning. In particular, microscale elastomeric pyramid pen arrays are often adopted as the cantilever‐free architecture owing to their distinct structural and mechanical properties. To better understand the mechanical behavior of the elastomeric pyramid pen array during the lithographic printing process, we numerically investigate the compression of an elastomeric pyramid array in a nonadhesive and frictionless contact with a rigid substrate. Simple scaling laws of the width of the contact surface with respect to the compression displacement and force are found and compared with previous models and experiments. By changing the interpyramid distance or the thickness of the base of the pyramid array, increasing deviations from the established scaling laws are observed and explained. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the unique morphology of a compressed pyramid primarily determines the unusual shape of the features fabricated by a specific cantilever‐free SPL technique. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 731–738
Probabilistic precipitation rate estimates with space‐based infrared sensors
Authors: Kirstetter Pierre‐Emmanuel , Karbalaee Negar , Hsu Kuolin , Hong Yang
Published: February 2018

The uncertainty structure of satellite‐based passive infrared quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) is largely unknown at fine spatio‐temporal scales, and requires more than just one deterministic “best estimate” to adequately cope with the intermittent, highly skewed distribution that characterizes precipitation. An investigation of this subject has been carried out within the framework of the Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks‐Cloud Classification System (PERSIANN‐CCS). A new method, PIRSO (Probabilistic QPE using InfraRed Satellite Observations), is proposed to advance the use of uncertainty as an integral part of QPE. Probability distributions of precipitation rates are computed instead of deterministic values using a model quantifying the relation between satellite infrared brightness temperatures and the corresponding “true” precipitation rate. Ensembles of brightness temperatures‐to‐precipitation rate relationships are derived at a 30 min/0.04° scale. This approach conditions probabilistic quantitative precipitation estimates (PQPE) on the precipitation rate and typology. PIRSO's components were estimated based on a data sample covering two warm seasons over the conterminous USA. Precipitation probability maps outperform the deterministic PERSIANN‐CCS QPE. PIRSO is shown to mitigate systematic biases from deterministic retrievals, quantify uncertainty, and advance the monitoring of precipitation extremes. It also provides the basis for precipitation probability maps and satellite precipitation ensembles needed for satellite multi‐sensor merging of precipitation, early warning and mitigation of hydrometeorological hazards, and hydrological modelling.
Explicitly correlated variational estimates of the energy levels of negative hydrogen ion under spatial confinement
Authors: Chandra Reet , Dutta Bibhas , Saha Jayanta K. , Bhattacharyya Sukhamoy , Mukherjee Tapan K.
Published: February 2018

Comprehensive investigations on the structural modifications of negative hydrogen ion within an impenetrable spherical domain has been performed in the framework of Ritz variational method. Electron correlation plays a major role in the formation of H– ion. The Hylleraas‐type basis set expansion of wave function considered here incorporates the effect of electron correlation in an explicit manner. Energy values of
and 1sn
states
of H– ion within confined domain have been calculated. Although the singly excited states do not exist for a “free” H– ion, well converged energy values of such states have been found within a wide range of confinement radius. The thermodynamic pressure felt by the ion inside the sphere is also estimated. The general trend shows successive destabilization of the excited energy levels with increase of pressure. The contribution of angular correlation in the energy values have been estimated. Evolution of
and
energy levels of H– ion as quasi‐bound states are being reported.
Spatially resolved characterization of electron localization and delocalization in molecules: Extending the Kohn‐Resta approach
Authors: Astakhov Andrey A. , Tsirelson Vladimir G.
Published: February 2018

In this work, the electron organization of many‐electron systems is considered in a context of the linear response theory extending the Kohn‐Resta view on electron localization phenomenon. The variances of the local electronic position and momentum operators are linked via the fluctuation‐dissipation theorem to the optical conductivity tensor, that is, to observable spectroscopic properties. It is demonstrated that the electron position variance density quantifies a degree of electron delocalization in each point of position space and distinguishes between metallic and insulating character of electronic states. The momentum variance density estimates a degree of electron localization and is immediately related to electronic kinetic energy density in the Ghosh‐Berkowitz‐Parr form giving a physical interpretation to the later. We show that electron localization and delocalization phenomena in atoms and molecules can be probed by external electric field. This approach provides new electronic descriptors distinguishing and quantifying chemical bonds of different types.
First report of ostracods (Crustacea) associated with Bithynian (Anisian, Middle Triassic) Tubiphytes‐microbial reef in the North Dobrogean Orogen (Romania)
Authors: Forel Marie‐Béatrice , Grădinaru Eugen
Published: February 2018

The Mahmudia Quarry is located in the North Dobrogean Orogen (Romania), representing the western tip of the Palaeotethys‐issued Cimmeride Orogenic System. One sample from the Tubiphytes‐microbial reef exposed in the quarry yielded an abundant well‐preserved ostracod assemblage of Bithynian, early Middle Anisian, Middle Triassic age. We report the occurrence of 56 ostracod species distributed among 23 genera. Ten species are newly described: Acratia caeracella sp. nov., Bairdia mandruella sp. nov., B. liviae sp. nov., Hungarella mahmudiaensis sp. nov., Kempfina tineriella sp. nov., Liuzhinia antalyaformis sp. nov., L. bithynica sp. nov., L. edvardgriegi sp. nov., Microcheilinella? contrariella sp. nov., Paracypris oanaella sp. nov. One species is renamed, Bairdia monostorii nom. nov. and the diagnosis of the genus Palaeocypridina is emended to include the central muscle scars pattern. The Tubiphytes ecosystem is complex with a multi‐layer food chain, as shown by the presence of diversified carnivorous nekto‐benthic ostracods, being both prey and predators of other organisms. The palaeoenvironmental requirements of the main ostracod taxa indicate a deposition in an open marine environment, on the outer platform‐upper slope zone, in accordance with information provided by other proxies. We discuss the relationship between ostracods and microbial mats during the Triassic and conclude that the composition of assemblages is related both to the characteristics of this chemosynthetically‐driven habitat and to bathymetry. However, some taxa, such as the genus Liuzhinia, are typical of Triassic microbial ecosystems. We perform the first analysis of ostracod provincialism during the Anisian and identify a distinct peri‐Palaeo‐Tethyan province.
Appendages, functional morphology and possible sexual dimorphism in a new ceratiocaridid (Malacostraca, Phyllocarida) from the Early Devonian Hunsrück Slate (south‐western Germany)
Authors: Poschmann Markus , Bergmann Alexandra , Kühl Gabriele
Published: February 2018

We describe a new archaeostracan phyllocarid from the famous Early Devonian Hunsrück Slate, Germany. Morphological features suggest a new ceratiocaridid species for which we propose the name Ceratiocaris harpago sp. nov. The exceptionally well‐preserved holotype specimen is the most completely known ceratiocaridid with an almost entire set of appendages including biflagellate antenniform antennules, robust uniramous antennae with hook‐like flagellum, thoracopods densely covered with setae and probably six pairs of pleopods. A nectobenthic lifestyle is considered the most probable and the clasper‐like morphology of the antennae suggests the presence of a sexual dimorphism in this taxon, with the holotype specimen being a male individual.
Successful verification of subcontracted work in the construction industry
Authors: Makkinga Rick , de Graaf Robin , Voordijk Hans
Published: February 2018

Due to the introduction of new types of contracts, such as Design, Build, Finance, & Maintain (DBFM), a major shift in tasks and responsibilities from client to contractor can be seen in the construction industry. To manage these new contracts and corresponding shifts in responsibilities, systems engineering (SE) is seen as a relevant instrument and applied increasingly in this industry. When these new, integrated contracts are applied in combination with SE, the contractor becomes responsible for verification. The contractor, however, is not the only organization that executes verification tasks as contractors regularly subcontract work to suppliers. Although the main contractor bears the final responsibility toward the client, it may be expected that the supplier verifies its own work. This requires verification to be carried out further down the supply chain. However, many problems are experienced when allocating these verification responsibilities to the suppliers. This paper explores which verification problems are faced in construction work that is subcontracted to suppliers. A conceptual framework is applied to categorize these problems and to analyze the solutions applied in the construction industry. The major finding of this study is that causes of verification problems can be found at both the contractor and the supplier side. Improvements are suggested for both these sides.
Emerging (In)Determinacy
Authors: Eva Benjamin ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2018

In recent years, a number of authors have defended the coherence and philosophical utility of the notion of metaphysical indeterminacy. Concurrently, the idea that reality can be stratified into more or less fundamental ‘levels’ has gained significant traction in the literature. Here, I examine the relationship between these two notions. Specifically, I consider the question of what metaphysical (in)determinacy at one level of reality tells us about the possibility of metaphysical (in)determinacy at other more or less fundamental levels. Towards this end, I propose a novel conception of the way in which fundamental states of affairs determine derivative states of affairs in the presence of indeterminacy and construct a corresponding formal model of multilevel systems that demonstrates the compatibility of determinacy at the fundamental level with indeterminacy at higher levels (and vice versa), thereby rebutting Barnes’ (2014) suggestion that indeterminacy at any level of reality implies indeterminacy at the fundamental level.
The Logic of the Knowledge Norm of Assertion
Authors: Schlöder Julian J. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2018

The knowledge norm of assertion is the subject of a lively debate on when someone is in a position to assert something. However, not much has been said about the logic that underlies such debate. In this paper, I propose a formalisation of the knowledge norm in a deontic logic that aims to be explanatory and conceptually sound. Afterwards, I investigate some problems that this formalisation makes visible. This reveals some significant limitations of the underlying logic: it can neither contain Axiom 4 (transitivity) nor Axiom C4 (density). Moreover, sentences of the form p and I have not asserted that p appear to licence a violation of deontic rules.
Prognostic Factors of Salvage Esophagectomy for Residual or Recurrent Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma After Definitive Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Kiyozumi Yuki , Yoshida Naoya , Ishimoto Takatsugu , Yagi Taisuke , Koga Yuki , Uchihara Tomoyuki , Sawayama Hiroshi , Hiyoshi Yukiharu , Iwatsuki Masaaki , Baba Yoshifumi , Miyamoto Yuji , Watanabe Masayuki , Matsuyama Tomohiko , Oya Natsuo , Baba Hideo
Published: February 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to confirm prognostic factors for salvage esophagectomy for remnant or recurrent esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after definitive chemoradiotherapy.

Study design

We retrospectively analyzed clinicopathological backgrounds of 50 patients who underwent salvage esophagectomy between April 2005 and January 2016. Salvage esophagectomy comprised 40 three‐incision esophagectomies, two transhiatal esophagectomies and eight pharyngolaryngoesophagectomies. Independent prognostic factors for overall survival were assessed using Cox regression analysis of the factors.

Results

Salvage esophagectomy remains a highly invasive surgery and correlated with a higher incidence of all morbidities of Clavien–Dindo classification (CDc) ≥II, severe morbidities of CDc ≥ IIIb, any pulmonary morbidities and chylorrhea, compared with those in patients without preoperative definitive chemoradiotherapy. Cox regression analysis suggested that R0 resection (hazard ratio [HR] 6.39; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.03–9.68, P = 0.002), absence of severe complications (HR 4.97; 95% CI 1.70–14.81, P = 0.004) and early pStage (0–II) (HR 3.42; 95% CI 1.24–10.12, P = 0.018) were independent prognostic factors for salvage esophagectomy.

Conclusions

Salvage esophagectomy remains correlated with a high incidence of postoperative complications. Avoiding non‐curative surgery and reducing the incidence of severe postoperative complications are important if patients are to receive prognostic benefit of this highly invasive surgery.
Characterization of a novel lytic bacteriophage from an industrial Escherichia coli fermentation process and elimination of virulence using a heterologous CRISPR–Cas9 system
Authors: Halter Mathew C , Zahn James A
Published: February 2018

Bacterial–bacteriophage interactions are a well-studied and ecologically-important aspect of microbiology. Many commercial fermentation processes are susceptible to bacteriophage infections due to the use of high-density, clonal cell populations. Lytic infections of bacterial cells in these fermentations are especially problematic due to their negative impacts on product quality, asset utilization, and fouling of downstream equipment. Here, we report the isolation and characterization of a novel lytic bacteriophage, referred to as bacteriophage DTL that is capable of rapid lytic infections of an Escherichia coli K12 strain used for commercial production of 1,3-propanediol (PDO). The bacteriophage genome was sequenced and annotated, which identified 67 potential open-reading frames (ORF). The tail fiber ORF, the largest in the genome, was most closely related to bacteriophage RTP, a T1-like bacteriophage reported from a commercial E. coli fermentation process in Germany. To eliminate virulence, both a fully functional Streptococcus thermophilus CRISPR3 plasmid and a customized S. thermophilus CRISPR3 plasmid with disabled spacer acquisition elements and seven spacers targeting the bacteriophage DTL genome were constructed. Both plasmids were separately integrated into a PDO production strain, which was subsequently infected with bacteriophage DTL. The native S. thermophilus CRISPR3 operon was shown to decrease phage susceptibility by approximately 96%, while the customized CRISPR3 operon provided complete resistance to bacteriophage DTL. The results indicate that the heterologous bacteriophage-resistance system described herein is useful in eliminating lytic infections of bacteriophage DTL, which was prevalent in environment surrounding the manufacturing facility.
Inducing Ni sensitivity in the Ni hyperaccumulator plant Alyssum inflatum Nyárády (Brassicaceae) by transforming with CAX1, a vacuolar membrane calcium transporter
Authors: Ghasemi Rasoul , Share Hoorieh , Sharifi Roza , Boyd Robert S. , Rajakaruna Nishanta
Published: February 2018

The importance of calcium in nickel tolerance was studied in the nickel hyperaccumulator plant Alyssum inflatum by gene transformation of CAX1, a vacuolar membrane transporter that reduces cytosolic calcium. CAX1 from Arabidopsis thaliana with a CaMV35S promoter accompanying a kanamycin resistance gene was transferred into A. inflatum using Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Transformed calli were sub‐cultured three times on kanamycin‐rich media and transformation was confirmed by PCR using a specific primer for CAX1. At least 10 callus lines were used as a pool of transformed material. Both transformed and untransformed calli were treated with varying concentrations of either calcium (1–15 mM) or nickel (0–500 µM) to compare their responses to those ions. Increased external calcium generally led to increased callus biomass, however, the increase was greater for untransformed callus. Further, increased external calcium led to increased callus calcium concentrations. Transformed callus was less nickel tolerant than untransformed callus: under increasing nickel concentrations callus relative growth rate was significantly less for transformed callus. Transformed callus also contained significantly less nickel than untransformed callus when exposed to the highest external nickel concentration (200 µM). We suggest that transformation with CAX1 decreased cytosolic calcium and resulted in decreased nickel tolerance. This in turn suggests that, at low cytosolic calcium concentrations, other nickel tolerance mechanisms (e.g., complexation and vacuolar sequestration) are insufficient for nickel tolerance. We propose that high cytosolic calcium is an important mechanism that results in nickel tolerance by nickel hyperaccumulator plants.
Simulation of the Growth of Austenite from As-Quenched Martensite in Medium Mn Steels
Authors: Huyan Fei , Yan Jia-Yi , Höglund Lars , Ågren John , Borgenstam Annika
Published: February 2018

As part of an ongoing development of third-generation advanced high-strength steels with acceptable cost, austenite reversion treatment of medium Mn steels becomes attractive because it can give rise to a microstructure of fine mixture of ferrite and austenite, leading to both high strength and large elongation. The growth of austenite during intercritical annealing is crucial for the final properties, primarily because it determines the fraction, composition, and phase stability of austenite. In the present work, the growth of austenite from as-quenched lath martensite in medium Mn steels has been simulated using the DICTRA software package. Cementite is added into the simulations based on experimental observations. Two types of systems (cells) are used, representing, respectively, (1) austenite and cementite forming apart from each other, and (2) austenite forming on the cementite/martensite interface. An interfacial dissipation energy has also been added to take into account a finite interface mobility. The simulations using the first type of setup with an addition of interfacial dissipation energy are able to reproduce the observed austenite growth in medium Mn steels reasonably well.
Development and Comparison of Algorithms to Derive Vehicle Location from Speed Profile Data
Authors: Powell Jonathan Peter , Palacín Roberto
Published: February 2018

The rapid increases in the quantity of data being gathered regarding technological systems such as railways can promote improvements in their design and operation. Combining information from different datasets allows more in-depth analysis, such as using train location data to enhance the analysis of speed profiles and energy consumption. Positioning systems such as GPS are frequently used to obtain this information, but are not necessarily always available, such as in underground metro systems. The focus of this paper is therefore the development of algorithms to derive train location information from measured speed profile data and network topology. Two different algorithms were developed to extract individual station-to-station journeys from an example consisting of a dataset of speed profiles and energy consumption from an urban rail system, and four classification algorithms were developed to identify the station pairs associated with each journey. It was found that the best-performing approach for this task was to compare the cumulative distance of a group of several consecutive journeys against a database of station-to-station distances to find the best match. This was more resilient than constructing sequences of consecutive journeys from possible matches in a database of station-to-station distances and orders of magnitude faster than heuristic algorithms.
Rehabilitation Course and Specification of Dysmetria of a Patient With Ataxia, Dysmetria, and Hemiparesis After a Stroke in the Corona Radiata: A Case Presentation
Authors: Mohar Monir , Hartman Kosandra , Long Bronwyn , Lee Peter , Didita Adrian , Altschuler Eric L.
Published: February 2018

We present a case of a patient with ataxia, dysmetria, and hemiparesis after a stroke in the corona radiata. The patient had an excellent clinical course with near resolution of symptoms in 2 and a half weeks and returned back to work full duty and full time a couple of weeks later. We use videos of several neurologic tests to demonstrate and characterize the dysmetria. Interestingly, a key characteristic of the dysmetria appears to be different from that seen in patients with dysmetria arising from a cerebellar, thalamic, or pontine lesion. We propose a possible neurophysiologic mechanism—damage to and redundancy of part of the corticopontine portion of the cerebellar circuit located in the corona radiata—respectively responsible for this condition and recovery. We also discuss how a simple noninvasive study of patients with ataxia and dysmetria secondary to corona radiata, thalamic, pontine, and possibly other brain lesions may be helpful in elucidating the contribution of pontocerebellar fibers and other structures to motor control.

Level of Evidence

V
An Extension Without an Exhibition
Authors: Dennis L. Meghan
Published: February 2018

In the push to provide further interaction with museum and heritage exhibitions, the internet has become an established venue, offering nearly unlimited space and options for providing extensions to in-person content. These internet-based supplements in many cases outlast the physical displays they are meant to accompany. After the exhibitions have closed and the museums have moved on, the digital content remains, a static placeholder for a particular viewpoint on heritage, curation, and public outreach. Such is the case with the Interface Experience, the Web extension to the exhibition of the same name, which ran for a few months in 2015 (Bard Graduate Center [BGC] 2014a). This site, which remains largely functional, is now disconnected from the exhibition it was meant to accompany, leaving it to stand alone as a study on the connections between digital outputs and materiality.
Enhancing motion cueing using an optimisation technique
Authors: Jones M.
Published: February 2018

Virtual engineering tools are not currently employed extensively during the certification and commissioning of flight simulator motion systems. Subjective opinion is regarded as sufficient for most applications, as it provides verification that the motion platform does not cause false cueing. However, the results of this practice are systems that may be far from optimal for their specific purpose. This paper presents a new method for tuning motion systems objectively using a novel tuning process and tools which can be applied throughout the simulators life-cycle. The use of the tuning method is shown for a number of simulated test cases.
The Demand for Inputs and Technical Change in the U.S. Dairy Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Zhang Wei , Alston Julian M.
Published: February 2018

The dairy industry is of much interest worldwide because it has been subject to heavy government intervention. Central to the analysis of any dairy policy is a quantitative empirical understanding of the economic relationships in the industry. This paper models and measures the input demand relationships—especially, derived demand for farm milk as a processing input—and the rate and biases of technical change in the U.S. dairy manufacturing industry. Our estimates indicate that the Marshallian own-price elasticity of demand for farm milk is between −0.43 and −1.20. Estimates also indicate that technical change has been capital using and labor saving.
Thick drops climbing uphill on an oscillating substrate
Authors: Bradshaw J. T. , Billingham J.
Published: February 2018

Experiments have shown that a liquid droplet on an inclined plane can be made to move uphill by sufficiently strong, vertical oscillations (Brunet et al., Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 99, 2007, 144501). In this paper, we study a two-dimensional, inviscid, irrotational model of this flow, with the velocity of the contact lines a function of contact angle. We use asymptotic analysis to show that, for forcing of sufficiently small amplitude, the motion of the droplet can be separated into an odd and an even mode, and that the weakly nonlinear interaction between these modes determines whether the droplet climbs up or slides down the plane, consistent with earlier work in the limit of small contact angles (Benilov and Billingham, J. Fluid Mech. vol. 674, 2011, pp. 93–119). In this weakly nonlinear limit, we find that, as the static contact angle approaches $\unicode[STIX]{x03C0}$ (the non-wetting limit), the rise velocity of the droplet (specifically the velocity of the droplet averaged over one period of the motion) becomes a highly oscillatory function of static contact angle due to a high frequency mode that is excited by the forcing. We also solve the full nonlinear moving boundary problem numerically using a boundary integral method. We use this to study the effect of contact angle hysteresis, which we find can increase the rise velocity of the droplet, provided that it is not so large as to completely fix the contact lines. We also study a time-dependent modification of the contact line law in an attempt to reproduce the unsteady contact line dynamics observed in experiments, where the apparent contact angle is not a single-valued function of contact line velocity. After adding lag into the contact line model, we find that the rise velocity of the droplet is significantly affected, and that larger rise velocities are possible.
Monogenoidean parasites of Acestrorhynchus falcatus (Characiformes: Acestrorhynchidae) from Pará, Brazil: species of Diaphorocleidus and Rhinoxenoides n. gen. (Monogenoidea: Dactylogyridae)
Authors: Santos Neto J.F. , Costa N.G.S. , Soares G.B. , Domingues M.V.
Published: February 2018

Two new species of Diaphorocleidus and one new species of Rhinoxenoides n. gen. are described from the gills of Acestrorhynchus falcatus (Bloch) from rivers of north-eastern Pará, Brazil. Diaphorocleidus jaymedeloyolai n. sp. is characterized by a male copulatory organ (MCO) possessing three counterclockwise coils; similar anchors with subtriangular superficial roots; a ventral bar with posteromedial projection; and hooks of pairs 1, 4 and 7 approximately three times longer than hook pair 5. Diaphorocleidus sclerocolpus n. sp. differs from its congeners by a dual-branched accessory piece articulated with the MCO and a sclerotized tubular vagina with a bottle-shaped vestibule. Rhinoxenoides n. gen. is proposed and is characterized by possessing: MCO sclerotized with clockwise coils; an accessory piece articulated to the base of MCO; a sinistroventral vaginal aperture; ventral anchor with conspicuous roots; dorsal anchor with superficial root five times longer than deep root; and absence of dorsal bar. The proposal of Rhinoxenoides n. gen. is also supported by its phylogenetic relationship with Protorhinoxenus prochilodi and species of Rhinoxenus, using 16 morphological characters, which resulted in the following hypothesis of sister-group relationships: Rhinoxenoides n. gen. [Protorhinoxenus (Rhinoxenus curimatae (R. nyttus (R. bulbovaginatus (R. guianensis, R. piranhus, R. euryxenus (R. arietinus, R. anaclaudiae)))))].