bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric investigation of the specific phobia of vomiting inventory: A new factor model
Authors: Maack Danielle J. , Ebesutani Chad , Smitherman Todd A.
Published: July 2017

Well‐validated, standardized measures are lacking for the assessment of emetophobia, the specific phobia of vomiting. The Specific Phobia of Vomiting Inventory (SPOVI) was recently developed and shows promise as a useful measure of emetophobia. The goal of the present study was to further examine and investigate the psychometric properties of the SPOVI in a large student sample (n = 1626), specifically focusing on its factor structure, measurement invariance across gender, and convergent/divergent validity. Confirmatory factor analysis results provide support for a one‐factor model of the SPOVI, in contrast to the previously proposed two‐factor model. Internal consistency of the SPOVI was good (α = 0.89) and measurement invariance across gender invariance was supported. The SPOVI also demonstrated good psychometric properties with respect to convergent and divergent validity. The present study's demonstration of the reliability and validity of the SPOVI suggests that the instrument may be a valuable tool for assessing emetophobia symptoms based on its one‐factor structure.
Fat‐based registration of breast dynamic contrast enhanced water images
Authors: Srinivasan Subashini , Hargreaves Brian A. , Daniel Bruce L.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

In this study, a 3D fat‐based deformable registration algorithm was developed for registering dynamic contrast‐enhanced breast images.

Methods

The mutual information similarity measure with free‐form deformation motion correction in rapidly enhancing lesions can introduce motion. However, in Dixon‐based fat‐water separated acquisitions, the nonenhancing fat signal can directly be used to estimate deformable motion, which can be later used to deform the water images. Qualitative comparison of the fat‐based registration method to a water‐based registration method, and to the unregistered images, was performed by two experienced readers. Quantitative analysis of the registration was evaluated by estimating the mean‐squared signal difference on the fat images.

Results

Using a scale of 0 (no motion) to 2 ( > 4 voxels of motion), the average image quality score of the fat‐based registered images was 0.5 ± 0.6, water‐based registration was 0.8 ± 0.8, and the unregistered dataset was 1.6 ± 0.6. The mean‐squared‐signal‐difference metric on the fat images was significantly lower for fat‐based registered images compared with both water‐based registered and unregistered images.

Conclusions

Fat‐based registration of breast dynamic contrast‐enhanced images is a promising technique for performing deformable motion correction of breast without introducing new motion. Magn Reson Med 79:2408–2414, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Assessment of Reynolds stress components and turbulent pressure loss using 4D flow MRI with extended motion encoding
Authors: Haraldsson Henrik , Kefayati Sarah , Ahn Sinyeob , Dyverfeldt Petter , Lantz Jonas , Karlsson Matts , Laub Gerhard , Ebbers Tino , Saloner David
Published: July 2017

Purpose

To measure the Reynolds stress tensor using 4D flow MRI, and to evaluate its contribution to computed pressure maps.

Methods

A method to assess both velocity and Reynolds stress using 4D flow MRI is presented and evaluated. The Reynolds stress is compared by cross‐sectional integrals of the Reynolds stress invariants. Pressure maps are computed using the pressure Poisson equation—both including and neglecting the Reynolds stress.

Result

Good agreement is seen for Reynolds stress between computational fluid dynamics, simulated MRI, and MRI experiment. The Reynolds stress can significantly influence the computed pressure loss for simulated (eg, –0.52% vs –15.34% error; P < 0.001) and experimental (eg, 306 ± 11 vs 203 ± 6 Pa; P < 0.001) data. A 54% greater pressure loss is seen at the highest experimental flow rate when accounting for Reynolds stress (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

4D flow MRI with extended motion‐encoding enables quantification of both the velocity and the Reynolds stress tensor. The additional information provided by this method improves the assessment of pressure gradients across a stenosis in the presence of turbulence. Unlike conventional methods, which are only valid if the flow is laminar, the proposed method is valid for both laminar and disturbed flow, a common presentation in diseased vessels. Magn Reson Med 79:1962–1971, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Long‐term outcomes and risks factors for failure of intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxin A injections for the treatment of refractory neurogenic detrusor overactivity
Authors: Joussain Charles , Popoff Mélanie , Phé Véronique , Even Alexia , Bosset Pierre‐Olivier , Pottier Sandra , Falcou Laetitia , Levy Jonathan , Vaugier Isabelle , Chartier Kastler Emmanuel , Schurch Brigitte , Denys Pierre
Published: July 2017

Aims

Aims of this study were to assess the long‐term outcomes of Intradetrusor injection of OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox® injection) associated with clean intermittent‐catheterization (CIC) for the treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) and to identify risk factors for failure.

Methods

Neurological patients with NDO using CIC who had received Botox® injections between January 2001 and September 2013 were included. Clinical, urodynamic and radiological data were recorded. Primary endpoint was failure and withdrawal rates after 3, 5, and 7 years of management. Survival curves of withdrawals and failures of treatment were calculated with a 95‐confidence interval using the Kaplan‐Meier method. Risk factors for failure were determined with univariate analysis and multivariate analysis using Cox model.

Results

Overall, 292 patients, mean age of 40 ± 13, 6 years, were included. Overall, 219 patients (80.6%; IC95% [76.3‐85.4%]) were still treated with Botox® injections after 3 years, 128 (71.1%; IC95% [65.7%, 76.9%]) after 5 years, and 58 (60.8%, IC95% [54.0%, 68.4%]) after 7 years. Failure rate was 12.6% (IC95% [8.6‐16.5%]) after 3 years, 22.2% (IC95% [16.6‐27.3%]) after 5 years, and 28.9% (IC95% [21.9%; 35.3%]) after 7 years of follow‐up. Withdrawal rate after 7 years of follow‐up was 11.3% (n = 33/292). Severe NDO at baseline appears to be a significant risk factor for failure.

Conclusion

This study confirms long‐term efficacy and tolerance of Botox® injection in patients with NDO using CIC. Long‐term failure and withdrawal rates remain low but significant, and need to be managed.
Effects of vesical and perfusion pressure on perfusate flow, and flow on vesical pressure, in the isolated perfused working pig bladder reveal a potential mechanism for the regulation of detrusor compliance
Authors: Vince Randy , Tracey Andrew , Deebel Nicholas A. , Barbee Robert W. , Speich John E. , Klausner Adam P. , Ratz Paul H.
Published: July 2017

Aims

Although there is evidence that deficits in bladder blood flow negatively impact bladder function, the effects of vesical, and perfusion pressures on bladder perfusion (perfusate flow), and of perfusate flow on vesical pressure, remain poorly understood. The present study used the isolated perfused working pig bladder model to examine the relationships between blood flow, and vesical and perfusion pressures.

Methods

Vesical arteries of pig bladders obtained from a local slaughterhouse were cannulated and perfused with Krebs‐Henseleit solution at different pressures, and with carbachol to cause bladder contraction. The urethra of each bladder was cannulated to permit filling (10 mL/min), isovolumetric contraction and emptying. A ureter was cannulated with a pressure sensor to monitor vesical pressure.

Results

When at rest (50 mL vesical volume), bladder vesical pressure was 8.06 ± 1.5 mmHg and perfusate flow driven by a pressure gradient of 105 mmHg was 22.5 ± 2 mL/min (58.9 ± 7.8 mL/min‐100 g). During filling, vesical pressure increased and flow decreased, but not necessarily in‐parallel. Perfusate flow decreased transiently during isovolumetric contraction, and flow increased during emptying. A reduction in perfusion pressure from ∼105 to ∼40 mmHg reduced flow from ∼70 to ∼20 mL/min‐100g, and reduced flow correlated with reduced vesical pressure.

Conclusion

Perfusate flow is dependent on bladder perfusion pressure, and not necessarily reciprocally dependent on vesical pressure. Vesical pressure is highly sensitive to the level of perfusate flow, which supports the hypothesis that vesical pressure is dependent on the level of detrusor smooth muscle contractile activity (tone), and that compliance is dependent on bladder perfusion.
Cosmology and Crisis in Oksapmin, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Macdonald Fraser
Published: July 2017

This article explores Oksapmin imaginings of two interrelated crises: the temporary closure of the Ok Tedi gold and copper mine and a prolonged drought, both of which occurred in Papua New Guinea throughout 2015. Local interpretations were notable for assigning causality to a variety of indigenous magical and spiritual forces despite the fact that the Oksapmin have been evangelical Christians for over 50 years and have more recently been influenced by Pentecostalism, by which I mean both Pentecostal and charismatic forms of Christianity in which believers receive the ‘gifts’ of the Holy Spirit, such as speaking in tongues, healing, visions, prophecy, and so forth. I argue that the core reason for the reference to these forms is their ability to vividly elucidate the physical and social dimensions of the immediate lived world as against the ‘placeless’ characteristics and otherworldly orientation of Pentecostalism. Presenting these cultural forms as components of an encompassing, syncretic, and multiplicitous cosmology, the paper critically engages with and re‐imagines prevailing trends within the anthropology of Pacific Christianity which underline discontinuity, rupture, and the disappearance of indigenous religion, by presenting a picture of Oksapmin religion and cosmology characterized by an overall integration of the two worlds that manifests both conjunction and disjunction.
Predicting thermal degradation mechanisms in urea–formaldehyde cellulose composites filled with tin particles
Authors: Azeem Arshad Muhammad , Maaroufi Abdel Krim , Benavente Rosario , Pinto Gabriel
Published: July 2017

This article reports a study on structural characterization, thermal stability, and prediction of the thermal degradation mechanisms of urea–formaldehyde cellulose (UFC) composites filled with tin particles by condensed phase kinetic approaches. Structural characterization of UFC/Sn composites performed by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier‐transform infrared analyses demonstrates that the composites are fairly homogenous, and the interactions between UFC and tin in the composites are physical in nature. Measurements of inherent thermal stabilities, apparent reaction profiles, and thermal degradation kinetics of UFC and UFC/Sn composites have been carried out on the thermoanalytical data of materials. The integral procedure decompositions temperature elucidates the increasing thermal stabilities trend of UFC/Sn composites with the increase in tin contents in UFC matrix. Reaction profiles of UFC and UFC/Sn composites suggest considerably complex thermal degradation pathways of the materials which comprise various competitive/consecutive reactions. Substantial variations in the activation energies of matrix and composites with the advancement of reaction by generalized integral isoconversional method verify their multistep reaction mechanisms. Advanced reaction model determination methodology with the help of a novel kinetic function F(α, T) reveals that the multistep thermal degradation of UFC goes to completion by overall following intricate nucleation/growth mechanisms. A detailed account of the mechanistic information related to thermal degradation of UFC and UFC/Sn composites is also given and discussed in this study. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4341–4354, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanical properties, fiber orientation, and length distribution of glass fiber‐reinforced polypropylene parts: Influence of water‐foaming technology
Authors: Zhou Ying‐Guo , Su Bei , Turng Lih‐Sheng
Published: July 2017

It is generally believed that the length, length distribution, and orientation of fibers are important influencing factors on the mechanical properties of fiber‐reinforced polymer matrix composites. In this study, the length, length distribution, and orientation of fibers with respect to the loading direction of glass fiber‐reinforced polypropylene (GF‐PP) parts were investigated. GF‐PP of different initial fiber lengths, 2 mm (SGF‐PP) and longer than 2 mm (LGF‐PP), were prepared and then molded into parts via conventional injection molding (CIM) and water‐foamed injection molding (WFIM). The mechanical performance of samples was determined using tensile and impact tests, the residual fiber length and length distribution were measured, and the fiber orientation was observed by optical camera and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The experimental results showed that the mechanical properties of LGF‐PP WFIM components were better than those of the CIM components, while the SGF‐PP parts were worse than the solid ones. The results also suggested that the LGF‐PP WFIM samples exhibited the best fiber length and length distribution, and a lesser degree of fiber orientation, along the flow direction, compared with the CIM samples. It was also shown that the fibers in the GF‐PP foamed parts that were longer than a critical length, which possibly exceeded that of the solid parts, were more effective in improving the mechanical properties. Thus, it can be concluded that the property enhancements of the LGF‐PP parts can be attributed to the effect of cell growth based on an interpretative model of the interaction of long fibers and foamed cells. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4386–4399, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Relationship between work–family balance and job satisfaction among employees in China: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Yu Yue , Wang Yuchen , Zhang Jianxin
Published: July 2017

Previous studies have revealed the association between work–family balance and job satisfaction. The present research further explored the underlying mechanism of this association and aimed to provide a moderated mediation model to explain if personality traits moderate the relationship between work–family balance and job satisfaction through work engagement. A cross‐sectional study was conducted in which 263 employees from a petrochemical enterprise in China completed self‐report questionnaires including the Work–Family Balance Scale, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, the Big Five Inventory‐10, and the Job Satisfaction Scale. Hierarchical regression analysis and structural equation modeling showed that work engagement partially mediated the relationship between work–family balance and job satisfaction, and the indirect effect was further moderated only by extraversion. Therefore, an integrative moderated mediation model was proposed wherein work–family balance boosts job satisfaction by first enhancing employees’ work engagement, while the indirect effect was in turn moderated by extraversion. The results suggest that interventions for improving job satisfaction may be enhanced by targeting work engagement, especially for employees with higher extraversion.
Dark personality profiles: Estimating the cluster structure of the Dark Triad
Authors: Garcia Danilo , MacDonald Shane
Published: July 2017

We estimated the number of possible dark personality profiles in a large population (N = 18,088) using a subtractive clustering method, which suggested three cluster or dark personality profiles: high malevolent, intermediate malevolent, and low malevolent or benevolent. While the three profiles differed significantly in each dark trait, there was a considerably large cluster overlap.
Identifying cancer drug regimens in French health insurance database: An application in multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Palmaro Aurore , Gauthier Martin , Despas Fabien , Lapeyre‐Mestre Maryse
Published: July 2017

Purpose

There is no consensus on how to handle complex drug combinations of cancer drugs through medico‐administrative databases. Our objective was to develop an algorithm for identifying the nature and patterns of treatment lines in a cohort of newly treated multiple myeloma patients.

Methods

A cohort of multiple myeloma patients starting a first treatment line was built using both ambulatory and hospital data from regional data of the French national healthcare system database (SNIIRAM). Patients were identified from January 2011 to September 2013 using ICD‐10 codes for multiple myeloma (‘C90’) within long‐term conditions or diagnosis from hospital data. Drugs of interest for cycle identification included bortezomib, imids (thalidomide, lenalidomide), alkylating drugs (cyclophosphamide, melphalan, bendamustine, doxorubicin) and dexamethasone. An algorithm was applied to define combinations of treatment received in the first 6 months of treatment.

Results

Among the 236 patients included, 45% received bortezomib‐melphalan‐prednisone (VMP: n = 107), 22% bortezomib‐thalidomide‐dexamethasone (VTD/VTD‐PACE: n = 52) and 21% melphalan‐prednisone‐thalidomide (MPT: n = 49). Other drug regimens consisted in melphalan‐prednisone (MP: 7%, n = 17), lenalidomide‐dexamethasone (RD) (4%, n = 9), bortezomib‐cyclophosphamide‐dexamethasone (VCD: n = 1) and bortezomib‐bendamustine‐dexamethasone (VBD: n = 1). Type of drug regimens and allocation by age class (±65 years) were in accordance with current recommendations.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the feasibility of identifying complex drug regimens in onco‐haematology, using both outpatient and inpatient drug records in French health insurance databases.
A comparative study between epoxy/Titania micro‐ and nanoparticulate composites thermal and mechanical behavior by means of particle–matrix interphase considerations
Authors: Papanicolaou George C. , Kostopoulos Vassilis , Kontaxis Lykourgos C. , Kollia Evgenia , Kotrotsos Athanasios
Published: July 2017

The aim of the present study is to examine and compare the thermal and mechanical properties of epoxy resin/TiO2particle microcomposites (0.2 μm) and nanocomposites (21 nm). Composite materials consisting of epoxy resin reinforced with different amounts of TiO2microparticles (1, 5, 10, 15, and 20% wt) and TiO2nanoparticles (0.5%, 1%, 3%wt) were prepared. The thermal and mechanical properties of the manufactured composites were investigated and compared through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and three‐point bending tests (3PB). Lipatov's Theory was then applied on the DSC results, thus leading to the calculation of the particle‐matrix interphase thickness which was correlated to experimental findings. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the materials was obtained and the effect of the grain size on the measuredTgvalues was investigated. The data obtained from DSC tests for both micro‐ and nanoinclusions when normalized with respect to the specific surface area of the particles, resulted in a single continuous curve describing the normalized phase transition enthalpy variation with filler weight fraction. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1146–1154, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Morphological and mechanical properties of drawn poly(l‐lactide) electrospun twisted yarns
Authors: Maleki Homa , Barani Hossein
Published: July 2017

In this study, the continuous twisted PLLA yarns were produced using an electrospinning device consists of two oppositely charged nozzles. The electrospinning process was performed at different twist rates. The electrospun twisted yarns were drawn at different extension ratios of 50% and 100% and their morphological and mechanical properties of post‐drawn yarns were investigated. The morphological studies at all twist rates shown that uniform and smooth fibers without any bead were formed. Increasing the twist rate up to 240 rpm resulted to a decrease in the average diameter of the fibers in the yarn structure. After uniaxially drawing of the yarns, the average diameter of fibers and thus the yarn diameter decreased. The post‐drawing process enhanced the crystallinity of the fibers in the yarn structure. Furthermore, by increasing the extension ratio, the tensile strength and modulus of yarns increased, while the elongation at break (%) decreased. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1091–1096, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Acetone absorption in UV‐irradiated polycarbonate
Authors: Hsiao Yu Chun , Harmon Julie P , Chuang Yu‐Fan , Chiang Donyau , Lee Sanboh
Published: July 2017

Isothermal acetone absorption in UV‐irradiated polycarbonate (PC) was investigated at temperatures from −23 to +25°C. The crystalline fraction of PC increased with UV dose. The anomalous transport data were analyzed based on Harmon's model which includes contributions from Case I transport characterized by the diffusion coefficient,D, and Case II transport characterized the velocity,v. Diffusion coefficients were monitored by both mass uptake using the model (Dandv), and movement of the sharp front (Df). Plots of log ofD,v, and equilibrium swelling ratio (ESR) versus 1/Texhibited similar features. That is, plots were linear and superimposable for all doses at the higher temperatures, and exhibited a transition temperature and then a linear region that varied with dose. The values ofD,Df, andvincreased with increasing dose, whereas the ESR decreased with dose. The direction of Case II transport was opposite to that of Case I diffusion during which time, sorbed solvent was expelled from the samples. Results are discussed in terms of a solvent‐induced change in lattice structure at the lower temperatures and in terms of UV radiation effects on the PC matrix that enhance solvent crystallization. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1174–1183, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Flexible Ti‐Doped FeOOH Quantum Dots/Graphene/Bacterial Cellulose Anode for High‐Energy Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Rong , Ma Lina , Niu Gudan , Li Xiaolong , Li Enyuan , Bai Yang , Liu Yang , Yuan Guohui
Published: July 2017

Ti‐doped FeOOH quantum dots (QD) decorated on graphene (GN) sheets are designed and fabricated by a facile and scalable synthesis route. Importantly, the Ti‐doped FeOOH QD/GN are successfully dispersed within bacterial cellulose (BC) substrate as bending anode with large loading mass for flexible supercapacitor. By virtue of its favorable architecture, this composite electrode exhibits a remarkable areal capacitance of 3322 mF cm−2 at 2 mA cm−2, outstanding cycle performance (94.7% capacitance retention after 6000 cycles), and excellent mechanical strength (68.7 MPa). To push the energy density of flexible supercapacitors, the optimized asymmetric supercapacitor using Mn3O4/GN/BC as positive electrode and Ti‐doped FeOOH QD/GN/BC as negative electrode can be cycled reversibly in the operating voltage range of 0–1.8 V and displays ultrahigh areal energy density of 0.541 mWh cm−2, ultrahigh volumetric energy density of 9.02 mWh cm−3, reasonable cycling performance (9.4% decay in specific capacitance after 5000 cycles), and good capacitive retention at bending state.
Anti‐myocardial Ischemia Effect and Components of Litchi Pericarp Extracts
Authors: Chen Yanfen , Li Huanqing , Zhang Shu , Yang Chaoyan , Mai Ziying , Hu Xueyan , Gao Zhenhu , Deng Hong
Published: July 2017

Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a famous fruit in south China, and it is also effective for chest tightness or chest pain, irritability, flatulence, epigastric pain and neuralgic pain, hernia pain and testicular swelling, cough, etc. It is valued because a great amount of polyphenol was found in litchi pericarp. In this paper, we got litchi pericarp pure extract by a simple purification method, then evaluated its activity to clear oxygen free radicals in vitro, and evaluated its myocardial protection effect in vivo through acute myocardial ischemia rat model. The results showed that the pure extract had protective effect on myocardial ischemia injury in a certain dose–effect relationship, which reflected in the electrocardiogram, myocardial pathological morphology and other indicators such as cardiac function enzymes, serum and myocardial antioxidant capacity, and eNOS, Bcl‐2 and Bax gene expression. Furthermore, we analyzed the components of pure extract by UPLC‐MS, ESI‐MS and NMR. The main components of PLPE were procyanidin which were identified as procyanidin B2(1), (−)‐epicatechin(2), epicatechin‐(4β → 8,2β → O → 7)‐epicatechin‐(4β → 8)‐epicatechin(3), A‐type procyanidin trimer(4), B‐type procyanidin dimer(5) and procyanidin A2(6).This study proved that litchi pericarp extract may have antioxidant activity and cardioprotection effect. It suggested that litchi pericarp may be good for cardiovascular disease. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantifying streambank movement and topography using unmanned aircraft system photogrammetry with comparison to terrestrial laser scanning
Authors: Hamshaw Scott D. , Bryce Thomas , Rizzo Donna M. , O'Neil‐Dunne Jarlath , Frolik Jeff , Dewoolkar Mandar M.
Published: July 2017

Streambank movement is an integral part of geomorphic changes along river corridors and affects a range of physical, ecological, and socio‐economic systems including aquatic habitat, water quality, and infrastructure. Various methods have been used to quantify streambank erosion, including bank pins, ground surveys, lidar, and analytical models, however, due to high‐cost or labour intensive fieldwork these are typically feasible or appropriate only for site‐specific studies. Advancements in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and photogrammetry provide opportunities for more rapid and economical quantification of streambank erosion and deposition at variable scales. This work assesses the performance of UAS‐based photogrammetry for capturing topography of streambank surfaces and quantifying bank movement. UAS data are compared to terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) and GPS surveying from streambank sites located in Vermont that featured a variety of bank conditions and vegetation. Cross‐sectional analysis of data from UAS and TLS revealed that the UAS reliably captured the bank surface within 0.2 m of TLS and GPS surveys across all sites during leaf‐off conditions. Mean error between UAS and TLS was only 0.11 m in early spring conditions. Dense summer vegetation resulted in decreased accuracy and was a limiting factor in the ability of the UAS to capture the ground surface. At areas with observed bank movement, the change in cross‐sectional area estimated using UAS data compared reliably to TLS survey for net cross‐sectional changes greater than 3.5 m2, given a 10% error tolerance. At locations with smaller changes, error increased due to the effect of vegetation, georeferencing, and overhanging bank profiles. UAS‐based photogrammetry shows significant promise for capturing bank topography and movement at fine resolutions in a flexible and efficient manner.
Solvent‐Free Synthesis of Uniform MOF Shell‐Derived Carbon Confined SnO2/Co Nanocubes for Highly Reversible Lithium Storage
Authors: He Qiu , Liu Jinshuai , Li Zhaohuai , Li Qi , Xu Lin , Zhang Baoxuan , Meng Jiashen , Wu Yuzhu , Mai Liqiang
Published: July 2017

Tin dioxide (SnO2) has attracted much attention in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to its abundant source, low cost, and high theoretical capacity. However, the large volume variation, irreversible conversion reaction limit its further practical application in next‐generation LIBs. Here, a novel solvent‐free approach to construct uniform metal–organic framework (MOF) shell‐derived carbon confined SnO2/Co (SnO2/Co@C) nanocubes via a two‐step heat treatment is developed. In particular, MOF‐coated CoSnO3 hollow nanocubes are for the first time synthesized as the intermediate product by an extremely simple thermal solid‐phase reaction, which is further developed as a general strategy to successfully obtain other uniform MOF‐coated metal oxides. The as‐synthesized SnO2/Co@C nanocubes, when tested as LIB anodes, exhibit a highly reversible discharge capacity of 800 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 200 mA g−1 and excellent cycling stability with a retained capacity of 400 mAh g−1 after 1800 cycles at 5 A g−1. The experimental analyses demonstrate that these excellent performances are mainly ascribed to the delicate structure and a synergistic effect between Co and SnO2. This facile synthetic approach will greatly contribute to the development of functional metal oxide‐based and MOF‐assisted nanostructures in many frontier applications.
On the interest of architectural technical debt: Uncovering the contagious debt phenomenon
Authors: Martini Antonio , Bosch Jan
Published: July 2017

A known problem in large software companies is to balance the prioritization of short‐term and long‐term business goals. As an example, architecture suboptimality (Architectural Technical Debt), incurred to deliver fast, might hinder future feature development. However, some technical debt generates more interest to be paid than other. We conducted a multi‐phase, multiple‐case embedded case study comprehending 9 sites at 6 large international software companies. We have investigated which architectural technical debt items generate more interest , how the interest occurs during software development and which costly extra‐activities are triggered as a result. We presented a taxonomy of the most dangerous items identified during the qualitative investigation and a model of their effects that can be used for prioritization, for further investigation and as a quality model for extracting more precise and context‐specific metrics. We found that some architectural technical debt items are contagious, causing the interest to be not only fixed, but potentially compound, which leads to the hidden growth of interest (possibly exponential). We found important factors to be monitored to refactor the debt before it becomes too costly. Instances of these phenomena need to be identified and stopped before the development reaches a crises.
Plasma for Rapid Conversion Reactions and Surface Modification of Electrode Materials
Authors: Zhang Yongqi , Rawat Rajdeep Singh , Fan Hong Jin
Published: July 2017

Transition‐metal compound (nitrides, carbides, phosphides, etc.) nanomaterials are under intensive research as potential advanced electrode materials in batteries, supercapacitors, and electrocatalytic water splitting. The radio‐frequency plasma‐assisted technique has emerged as a powerful tool in inducing nanoscale reactions, doping, defects, and nanostructure of electrode materials in high precision. Here, the recent application of the plasma‐assisted method in rapid conversion reactions and functionalization of electrode materials, which includes metal nitrides, phosphides, and carbon, is highlighted. The uniqueness and advantage of the plasma technique is introduced, along with the challenge for application to industrial electrode materials.
Development and validation of an instrument to assess student attitudes toward science across grades 5 through 10
Authors: Summers Ryan , Abd‐El‐Khalick Fouad
Published: July 2017

The aim of the present study is to enable future studies into students’ attitudes toward science, and related constructs, by developing and validating an instrument suitable for cross‐sectional designs. Following a thorough review of the literature it was determined that many extant instruments included design aspects that appeared to be limited in some way. The BRAINS (Behaviors, Related Attitudes, and Intentions toward Science) Survey was designed to address core criticisms that have been leveled against many existing instruments. BRAINS was rooted in a theoretical framework drawn from the theories of reasoned action and planned behavior (TRAPB). Initial development involved review by an expert panel, adaptation for online delivery and a pilot on this platform. To establish the psychometric validity of the 59‐item instrument it was administered to a representative, random sample of 1,291 Illinois students in grades 5 through 10. Confirmatory factor analysis and subsequent refinement yielded a 30‐item instrument with five factors and a good statistical fit including a RMSEA of 0.04 and a CFI of 0.95. The five factors, or constructs, of the final instrument model reflect the underlying TRAPB framework: attitudes toward science, behavioral beliefs about science, intentions to engage in science, normative beliefs, and control beliefs. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 55: 172–205, 2018
Identifying magnetizing inrush in power transformers based on symmetry of current waveforms
Authors: Zhang Luliang , Li Mengshi , Ji Tianyao , Zeng Jie
Published: July 2017

This letter proposes a novel method for the discrimination between magnetizing inrush and internal fault in power transformers based on the similarity of the current waveforms. The proposed method first normalizes and sorts the sample points of the differential current in a full fundamental frequency cycle to obtain a new sequence which is independent of the magnitude and initial phase angle of the original signal. Afterward, three indices are introduced to measure the similarity between the new sequence and a template, which are used to discriminate the inrush from an internal fault. Simulation studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method and its advantages over the conventional second harmonic restraint method. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Right and left ventricular 24‐segment sphericity index is abnormal in small‐for‐gestational‐age fetuses
Authors: DeVore G. R. , Zaretsky M. , Gumina D. L. , Hobbins J. C.
Published: July 2017

Objective

Fetuses with growth restriction have been reported to have an abnormal sphericity index (SI), which is indicative of the shape of the ventricular chambers of the heart. Our aim was to evaluate the SI for 24 transverse segments distributed from base to apex of the right (RV) and left (LV) ventricles to determine whether, in small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) fetuses, the SI is abnormal at locations other than the basal segment.

Methods

We evaluated 30 SGA fetuses between 25 and 37 weeks of gestation. SI was computed for both ventricles by dividing the end‐diastolic mid‐basal–apical length by each of 24 end‐diastolic transverse segmental widths, from base (Segment 1) to apex (Segment 24). For each ventricle, the Z‐score and centile for the SI from each of the 24 segments were computed using the mean and SD from published equations. The 24‐segment method, defining abnormal SI as values < 10th centile or > 90th centile, was compared with that of using only the basal segment by chi‐square analysis to determine the number of fetuses identified with an abnormal SI.

Results

In 23 of the 30 (77%) SGA fetuses, at least one of the 24 transverse segments in one or both ventricles had an abnormal SI; in 17% of cases, both ventricles were affected, in 23% of cases only the RV was involved and in 37% of cases only the LV was involved. Compared with the 24‐segment model, significantly fewer fetuses with an abnormal SI were identified using only basal Segment 1, from the RV base (58%, 7/12; P < 0.01) or only Segment 12, in the mid portion of the RV (50%, 6/12; P < 0.005). Combining measurements of Segment 1 and Segment 12 from the RV identified 83% of fetuses with at least one abnormal SI and was not significantly different from using the 24‐segment model. Similarly, significantly fewer fetuses with an abnormal SI were identified using only LV basal Segment 1 (63%, 10/16; P < 0.006) or only Segment 12, in the mid portion of the LV (75%, 12/16; P < 0.03), when compared with the 24‐segment model. Combining measurements of both LV Segment 1 and Segment 12 identified 81% (13/16) of fetuses with an abnormal SI and was not significantly different from using the 24‐segment model.

Conclusion

The 24‐segment SI of RV and LV provides a comprehensive method with which to examine the shape of the ventricular chambers and identifies more SGA fetuses with an abnormal SI than are identified using only the basal segment SI. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Peripheral complement interactions with amyloid β peptide in Alzheimer's disease: 2. Relationship to amyloid β immunotherapy
Authors: Crane Andrés , Brubaker William D. , Johansson Jenny U. , Trigunaite Abhishek , Ceballos Justine , Bradt Bonnie , Glavis‐Bloom Courtney , Wallace Tanya L. , Tenner Andrea J. , Rogers Joseph
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Our previous studies have shown that amyloid β peptide (Aβ) is subject to complement‐mediated clearance from the peripheral circulation, and that this mechanism is deficient in Alzheimer's disease. The mechanism should be enhanced by Aβ antibodies that form immune complexes (ICs) with Aβ, and therefore may be relevant to current Aβ immunotherapy approaches.

Methods

Multidisciplinary methods were employed to demonstrate enhanced complement‐mediated capture of Aβ antibody immune complexes compared with Aβ alone in both erythrocytes and THP1‐derived macrophages.

Results

Aβ antibodies dramatically increased complement activation and opsonization of Aβ, followed by commensurately enhanced Aβ capture by human erythrocytes and macrophages. These in vitro findings were consistent with enhanced peripheral clearance of intravenously administered Aβ antibody immune complexes in nonhuman primates.

Discussion

Together with our previous results, showing significant Alzheimer's disease deficits in peripheral Aβ clearance, the present findings strongly suggest that peripheral mechanisms should not be ignored as contributors to the effects of Aβ immunotherapy.
Sudden failure of ventricular pacing and recovery in a patient with cardiac sarcoidosis
Authors: Terui Yosuke , Nakamura Akihiro , Endo Hideaki , Kadosaka Takahide , Nakata Takashi , Watanabe Tasuku , Sato Kenjiro , Kanazawa Masanori , Kondo Masateru , Takahashi Tohru , Nozaki Eiji
Published: July 2017

A 76‐year‐old woman with sarcoidosis who had an implantable pacemaker for complete atrioventricular block was admitted with syncope. Electrocardiogram revealed ventricular pacing failure, and a marked rise in the ventricular pacing threshold. 18F‐Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET) indicated increased uptake of FDG in the ventricular septum. Three days after steroid therapy, the ventricular pacing threshold reverted to normal, and FDG‐PET showed decreased FDG uptake in the ventricular septum. In this case report, we demonstrate that a sudden deterioration in the ventricular pacing threshold due to worsening cardiac sarcoidosis can be reversed with early steroid therapy.
Behavioral inhibition, maladaptive pain cognitions, and function in patients with chronic pain
Authors: Jensen Mark P. , Solé Ester , Castarlenas Elena , Racine Mélanie , Roy Rubén , Miró Jordi , Cane Douglas
Published: July 2017

Background and aims

Trait behavioral inhibition represents a tendency to react with negative emotions - primarily worry - to cues which signal potential threats. This tendency has been hypothesized by a two-factor model of chronic pain to have direct effects on psychological and physical function in individuals with chronic pain, as well as to influence the associations between pain-related maladaptive cognitions and function. Our aim was to test these hypothesized associations in a sample of individuals who were being screened for possible interdisciplinary chronic pain treatment.

Methods

Eighty-eight patients referred to an interdisciplinary chronic pain management program were administered measures of average pain intensity, trait behavioral inhibition, kinesiophobia, pain catastrophizing, depressive symptoms, and pain interference. We then performed two linear regression analyses to evaluate the direct effects of trait behavioral inhibition on depressive symptoms and pain interference and the extent to which behavioral inhibition moderated the associations between kinesiophobia and pain catastrophizing, and the criterion variables.

Results

In partial support of the study hypotheses, the results showed significant (and independent) direct effects of trait behavioral inhibition on depressive symptoms, and behavioral inhibition moderated the association between kinesiophobia and depression, such that there were stronger associations between kinesiophobia and depressive symptoms in those with higher dispositional sensitivity to fear-inducing stimuli. However, neither direct nor moderating effects of behavioral inhibition emerged in the prediction of pain interference.

Conclusions

If replicated in additional studies, the findings would indicate that chronic pain treatments which target both reductions in maladaptive cognitions (to decrease the direct negative effects of these on depressive symptoms) and the individual’s tendency to respond to pain with worry (as a way to buffer the potential effects of maladaptive cognitions on depressive symptoms) might be more effective than treatments that targeted only one of these factors.

Implications

Additional research is needed to further evaluate the direct and moderating effects of pain-related behavioral inhibition on function, as well as the extent to which treatments which target behavioral inhibition responses provide benefits to individuals with chronic pain.
Freshwater Catfish Envenoming in a Tropical Country
Authors: Thalgaspitiya Sujeewa P.B. , Wijerathne Buddhika T.B. , Siriwardhana Nuwan P.
Published: July 2017

Objective

Freshwater catfish are known to cause painful stings in humans. Stings usually cause mild envenomation and, in some instances, can lead to severe secondary bacterial infections. Sri Lanka is a tropical country where catfish stings are not rare. However, presenting signs and symptoms, complications, and management options are scarce in the literature.

Methods

A retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted by reviewing patient records in the university surgical units and surgical clinic in the teaching hospital in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, during 2015.

Results

Ten patients presented to the hospital following catfish stings. The common presenting features following stings were severe pain, swelling, and lymphadenopathy followed by cellulitis. Late complication such as tenosynovitis were also observed.

Conclusions

Routine procedures are sufficient to reduce further complications. However, people who are at high risk of encountering catfish, and travelers visiting tropical countries, should be aware of the possibility of stings and take necessary precautions.
Writing in the Environmental Sciences
Authors: Baker L. Michelle
Published: July 2017

As an environmental scientist, you are used to writing scientific articles, but how confident do you feel writing policy or regulatory documents? Do you feel you have the necessary writing skills to influence policy and inform the public? This refreshingly clear guide provides environmental scientists and conservation professionals with an effective writing process that can be applied in a range of financial, political, or organizational contexts. Baker outlines a replicable seven-step writing formula based on practical experience that acknowledges the complexities inherent in the worlds of endangered species, habitat conservation, and recovery planning. Using the formula, scientists will be able to communicate confidently and successfully with a multitude of audiences. Baker's guide is written for scientists, not professional writers. In it, best practices abound. Practical examples, strategies, and diagrams guide the reader at every step, and selected resources are provided for further reference.
Behavioral Economics for Cost-Benefit Analysis
Authors: Weimer David L.
Published: July 2017

How should policy analysts assess 'benefit validity' when behavioral anomalies appear relevant? David L. Weimer provides thoughtful answers through practical guidelines. Behavioral economists have identified a number of situations in which people appear not to behave according to the neoclassical assumptions underpinning welfare economics and its application to the assessment of the efficiency of proposed public policies through cost-benefit analysis. This book introduces the concept of benefit validity as a criterion for estimating benefits from observed or stated preference studies, and provides practical guidelines to help analysts accommodate behavioral findings. It considers benefit validity in four areas: violations of expected utility theory, unexpectedly large differences between willingness to pay and willingness to accept, non-exponential discounting, and harmful addiction. In addition to its immediate value to practicing policy analysts, it helps behavioral economists identify issues where their research programs can make practical contributions to better policy analysis.
State Crisis in Fragile Democracies
Authors: Handlin Samuel
Published: July 2017

This book offers a novel political-institutional explanation for variation in political polarization, outsider populism, and the fate of democratic regimes across twenty-first-century South America. Drawing upon a wealth of primary evidence and employing process tracing tests to evaluate key causal claims, the book examines how the occurrence - or not - of state crises and the inherited strength of left wing political actors combined to push countries onto distinct party system trajectories characterized by different kinds of left parties and movements, highly variant levels of polarization, and ultimately divergent political regime dynamics. The book challenges extant interpretations of political variation during Latin America's turn to the left, which have centered on economic explanations. It also develops new theoretical propositions for understanding polarization, populism, and democratic erosion in young democracies across the world.
A Concise History of the Netherlands
Authors: Kennedy James C.
Published: July 2017

The Netherlands is known among foreigners today for its cheese and its windmills, its Golden Age paintings and its experimentation in social policies such as cannabis and euthanasia. Yet the historical background for any of these quintessentially Dutch achievements is often unfamiliar to outsiders. This concise history offers an overview of this surprisingly little-known but fascinating country. Beginning with the first humanoid settlers, the book follows the most important contours of Dutch history, from Roman times through to the Habsburgs, the Dutch Republic and the Golden Age. The author, a modernist, pays particularly close attention to recent developments, including the signature features of contemporary Dutch society. In addition to being a political history, this overview also gives systematic attention to social and economic developments, as well as in religion, the arts and the Dutch struggle against the water. The Dutch Caribbean is also included in the narrative.
Al-Qaida in Afghanistan
Authors: Stenersen Anne
Published: July 2017

Since 9/11, al-Qaida has become one of the most infamous and widely discussed terrorist organizations in the world, with affiliates spread across the globe. However, little-known are the group's activities within Afghanistan itself, something which Anne Stenersen examines in this book. Using an array of unique primary sources, she presents an alternative narrative of al-Qaida's goals and strategies prior to 9/11. She argues that al-Qaida's actions were not just an ideological expression of religious fanaticism and violent anti-Americanism, but that they were actually far more practical and organised, with a more revolutionary and Middle Eastern-focused agenda than previously thought. Through Stenersen's analysis, we see how al-Qaida employed a dual strategy: with a small section focused on staging international terrorist attacks, but at the same time a larger part dedicated to building a resilient and cohesive organization that would ultimately serve as a vanguard for future Islamist revolutions.