bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finite element simulation and analysis of saw cutting
Authors: Chen Dyi-Cheng , Chen You-Hua , You Ci-Syong , Huang Shin-Han
Published: July 2018

In this paper, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) used DEFORMTM 3D to construct 6061 aluminum sawing simulation. Before sawing, we pushed the speed and cutting speed under pressure as a sawing process parameters. Then there are three groups of combination conditions in the study. Analysis and discussion based on loading, effective stress, cutting temperature and blade wear. According to the impact parameters the structural design of the saw blade is improved by taking full account of the mutual influence of sawing parameters.
Fastener products lightweight design and forming process simulation
Authors: Sheu Jinn-Jong , Ho Chien-Jen , Yu Cheng-Hsien , Wu Kuo-Ting
Published: July 2018

In this research, an integrated design system was established to design the product of nuts with flange and generate the lightweight geometry of product. The multi-stage forming process was evaluated using the CAE simulations. The topology optimization method was used to achieve the lightweight design, that included keeping necessary geometrical features and remove the excess volumes. The topological discrete model had been remodelled into a meaningful geometry which is able to satisfy the requirement of proof load of fastener specification. The final design of the lightweight geometry was adopted to test the capability of carrying proof load required using CAE simulations with the boundary conditions of the related ASTM standard. In the evaluation stage, the finite element method was used to do the topology optimization, the proof load evaluation, the forging process and the die stress analysis. The simulation results showed the lightweight design was able to reduce the weight of product and maintain enough mechanical strength. The proposed process and die designs were able to obtain the lightweight product without defects.
Design and analysis for manipulator fixture applications
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Chu , Khong Zhen-Hong
Published: July 2018

The manipulators arms are the most important components in automatic machinery and equipment. These arms must conform to product requirements and match important accessory devices such as clamping jaw so that the entire process operates properly. Therefore the most important issue is that the manipulator arm has only one clamping jaw, followed by other issues such as welding and related features. In this research the manipulator arm of automated machinery with attached equipment was optimized, and the design serves as an object of study for multifunctional applications. This research emphasizes on customized manipulator design to create products with distinguished styles and characteristics, and serve as a basis for an improvement on innovative design. Manipulator arms from different manufacturers with various head-disc size and screw-hole locations were investigated, and concept of human palm was incorporated in the design to create a mechanical fixture that can be fitted into the arm. Overall design including main body of the manipulator, pneumatic cylinder set, gear and connecting rod combination, planet gear set, and linkage rods and fixture. These components were combined to offer the functions of the manipulator. Commercial software package, SolidWorks, was used to construct the model for the manipulator arm, and CAE analysis was implemented to identify the stress on the structure and possible interferences of the mobile components. Stress analysis was also performed on the gear set under pneumatic loading to ensure that the gear mechanism has a sufficient strength. The results of this study showed that an arc shaped manipulator body is the most easily handled during installation and most effectively controlled during operation. The simple profiles of the manipulator also lower the space required for storage. The design of the gear set and integrated application of the shaft helps prevent loosening of gear and shaft during operation. In this study, a manipulator was designed with three different functions, each fixture is powered by an isolated pneumatic cylinder, and this mechanism can be manipulated to form o0to o180clamping action in accordance with requirements of the task. The methods and results of this study serve as a reference for machinery industry to achieve high quality product, and also as a basis for innovative design.
On the design and prototype manufacturing of multi-speed transmission device of bicycle
Authors: Chen Tzu-Hsia , Hsieh Long-Chang
Published: July 2018

The transmission systems of bicycles are multi-speed systems to satisfy different kinematic requirements. The transmission system of a bicycle can be the external changing-speed system or internal multi-speed system. A complete multi-speed transmission device of a bicycle must contain multi-speed gear unit, control device, and operating device. This paper focused on the systematic design and prototype manufacturing of multi-speed transmission device of a bicycle. Based on the results of kinematic design and meshing efficiency analysis, the systematic design of six-speed transmission device was carried out and prototype was manufactured to verify the design theorem.
A wireless rainwater collecting, filtering, and storing system using a cell-phone
Authors: Cheng An-Bang , Chiu Min-Chie , Chiu Che-Min
Published: July 2018

Because of the greenhouse effect, global climate considerably changes and will worsen the water supply situations in future. Also, as can be seen in traditional reservoir, the crisis of water lacking will exacerbate due to the reservoir sedimentation. In order to widen the storage of water resources, a design of portable rain-collecting system used for irritation and daily use for people is presented. To facilitate the monitoring and manipulating, a rainwater collecting and storing system with green energy/automation /monitoring/control function is established. Considering the electricity shortage in remote island/mountain regions, two kinds of green energy generators (wind electrical generator and solar-board electrical device) are built and linked with the system. Here, a rain detector installed onto the roof can actuate the rainwater collecting board to raise and to collect water when raining event occurs. For the purpose of water purity, water filter is also set at the entrance of the water tank. In order to efficiently store/use the rainwater, several water storage tanks in conjunction with ecological pool are preset and adjusted via the water level gauge sensors and the pipe‘s solenoid valve. To meet the weather-proof ability, PLC is adopted as the controller. Moreover, a human-machine-interface is login on the internet and remotely communicated with the cell phone.Consequently, a prototype of the cell-phone base automatic rainwater collecting and storing system is established.
Therapieentscheidung zur Thrombektomie: Rolle der zerebralen Bildgebung
Authors: Kaiser Daniel , Gerber Johannes , Puetz Volker
Published: July 2018

Der ischämische Schlaganfall ist eine potenziell reversible Erkrankung und bedarf einer schnellen Diagnostik und Therapie. Unbehandelt kann er innerhalb kürzester Zeit persistierende Behinderung oder Tod zur Folge haben. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit werden Techniken der nicht invasiven zerebralen Bildgebung erläutert und speziell ihre Rolle für die Therapieentscheidung zur Thrombektomie dargelegt.
„Liquid biopsy“: Analyse molekularer Marker aus Blutproben zur Therapiesteuerung beim Lungenkarzinom
Authors: Brückl Wolfgang , Wirtz R. , Bertsch T. , Ficker J. , Jung A.
Published: July 2018

Zielgerichtete Therapien haben erfolgreich Einzug in die palliative Therapie des Lungenkarzinoms gehalten, da sie eine Individualisierung oder Personalisierung ermöglichen, die mit der Testung von prädiktiven Biomarkern einhergeht. Dadurch steigt die Zahl an prädiktiven molekularbiologischen und immunhistochemischen Untersuchungsmöglichkeiten zu verschiedenen Zeitpunkten der Therapie und damit der Bedarf an jeweils aktuellen Tumorgewebeproben. Diese sind jedoch oft nicht ohne unverhältnismäßig hohe Belastungen für den Patienten zu gewinnen. Daher stellen Verfahren der Diagnostik aus Blutproben, die mit dem aus dem Englischen stammenden Begriff „liquid biopsy“ zusammengefasst werden, eine Alternative bzw. Ergänzung zur klassischen Gewebebiopsie dar. Derzeit können in der klinischen Routine bereits aktivierende EGFR-Mutationen sowie die inhibitorische Mutation T790 M aus dem Blut detektiert werden. Dieser Artikel stellt den aktuellen Stellenwert der liquid biopsy in der Diagnostik, zur Prognose und zur Steuerung des Therapieverlaufs bei Lungenkarzinomen dar und gibt einen Ausblick auf zukünftige Möglichkeiten.
Lungenkrebsfrüherkennung – eine Bestandsaufnahme
Authors: Hoffmann Hans , Heußel Claus , Eichhorn Martin
Published: July 2018

Die Evidenz für den Nutzen und die Risiken eines Lungenkarzinomscreenings stützt sich im Wesentlichen auf eine einzelne große randomisiert-kontrollierte Studie, in der eine signifikante Reduktion der Lungenkrebssterblichkeit bei Risikopersonen für ein Lungenkarzinom in der Gruppe mit CT-Screening im Vergleich zur Kontrollgruppe gezeigt wurde. Dem nachgewiesenen Nutzen stehen signifikante Risiken gegenüber. Die große – und bisher ungelöste – Problematik beim CT-Screening für Lungenkrebs ist die hohe Rate an falsch positiven Befunden. Die Abklärung dieser Befunde erfordert oft auch invasive diagnostische Prozeduren. Dabei auftretende Komplikationen stellen das Hauptrisiko dar, das mit einem CT-Screening für das Lungenkarzinom verbunden ist. Die deutschen und europäischen Fachgesellschaften halten sich derzeit mit einer Empfehlung für ein flächendeckendes CT-Screening für das Lungenkarzinom noch zurück. Das Nutzen-Risiko-Verhältnis wird als ungünstig beurteilt. Die für Ende 2018 angekündigten Ergebnisse der derzeit laufenden europäischen Studien (insbesondere „NELSON“ in den Niederlanden und „LUSI“ in Deutschland) sollen zunächst abgewartet werden. Es werden insbesondere Daten zu effektiveren Abklärungsalgorithmen mit niedrigeren Raten an falsch positiven Befunden und damit geringeren Komplikationsraten erwartet. Mit diesen Daten wird es eine neue Nutzen-Risiko-Abwägung geben.
Flavonoid-Rich Fraction of Ocimum gratissimum Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Sickness Behavior, Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress in Mice
Authors: Ajayi Abayomi , Ben-Azu Benneth , Onasanwo Samuel , Adeoluwa Olusegun , Eduviere Anthony , Ademowo Olusegun
Published: July 2018

Purpose Ocimum gratissimum L. leaves has been traditionally used for management of febrile illnesses and symptoms typified of sickness behavior. In this work we investigated the modulatory effect of flavonoid-rich fraction of O. gratissimum leaves (EAFOg) on sickness behavior, inflammatory and oxidative stress responses in LPS-challenged mice.

Method O. gratissimum leaf was first extracted with n-hexane, chloroform and methanol, and EAFOg was obtained by ethylacetate partitioning of a sequentially resultant methanol extract. The effect of EAFOg (25–100 mg/kg) on acute LPS-induced neurobehavioral impairment in an open field test (OFT) and depressive-like behavior in forced swimming test (FST) was investigated. Serum nitrite and TNF-α, as well as myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were determined in liver and brain tissues.

Result EAFOg prevented the reduction in locomotor and rearing activity in OFT and the increase in immobility time in FST. The fraction significantly attenuated the elevation of serum TNF- α and nitrite levels. EAFOg reversed LPS-induced increase in MDA, MPO, and nitrite levels and attenuated GSH depletion in liver and brain tissues of mice.

Conclusion Flavonoid-rich fraction of O. gratissimum leaf demonstrated significant modulation of LPS-induced sickness behavior, inflammatory and oxidative stress response in mice. This suggests an important therapeutic strategy in slowing down LPS-mediated hepatic and neuronal disease processes.
Assessment of the Influence of Diabetes mellitus and Malnutrition on the Postoperative Complication Rate and Quality of Life of Patients in a Clinic Focused on Trauma Surgery
Authors: Wintermeyer Elke , Ihle Christoph , Ehnert Sabrina , Schreiner Anna , Stollhof Laura , Stöckle Ulrich , Nussler Andreas , Fritsche Andreas , Pscherer Stefan
Published: July 2018

Hintergrund Die Prävalenz eines Diabetes mellitus (DM) oder einer Mangelernährung hospitalisierter Patienten zeigt sich in Abhängigkeit von der jeweiligen Fachrichtung höher als die der Normalbevölkerung. Damit verbunden sind vermehrte, postoperative Komplikationen und steigende Behandlungskosten. Auch die subjektive Lebensqualität stationär behandelter Patienten kann beeinträchtigt sein, allerdings liegt hierfür nur eine begrenzte Datenlage, vor allem in der Unfallchirurgie, vor. Einflussfaktoren sowohl auf die postoperative Komplikationsrate als auch auf die Lebensqualität unfallchirurgischer Patienten könnten hierüber Aufschluss geben.

Material/Methoden In einer prospektiven Studie zwischen 06/2014 und 02/2017 wurden 1643 unfallchirurgische Patienten der Traumatologie, der Alterstraumatologie, der septischen Unfallchirurgie und Endoprothetik hinsichtlich des klinischen Outcomes, der Komplikationsrate und der Lebensqualität (Short Form Health Survey 36, SF-36) in Abhängigkeit von einem Diabetes mellitus (DM) und vom Ernährungsstatus (Nutritional Risk Screening 2002, NRS) untersucht und beurteilt.

Ergebnisse Mit 12,4% zeigt sich eine deutlich höhere Prävalenz eines DM und mit 18,3% ein höheres Risiko für Mangelernährung (NRS ≥ 3) bei stationär behandelten, unfallchirurgischen Patienten im Vergleich zur Normalbevölkerung (DM 7,2%). Patienten mit DM hatten eine signifikant höhere Komplikationsrate als Patienten ohne DM. Auch Patienten mit einem Risiko für Mangelernährung zeigten signifikant mehr Komplikationen. Zudem beurteilen Patienten mit DM ihre subjektive Lebensqualität in den meisten Dimensionen des SF-36, vor allem den körperlich subjektiv zu beurteilenden, geringer als Patienten ohne DM, während Patienten mit einem NRS ≥ 3 ihre Lebensqualität in allen Dimensionen des SF-36 (körperlich und mental) schlechter beurteilen als Patienten ohne Risiko für eine Mangelernährung. Weiterhin können wir zeigen, dass ein reduzierter Ernährungszustand zu einer schlechteren Beurteilung der subjektiven Lebensqualität führt, als dies durch das Vorliegen eines DM erreicht wird.

Schlussfolgerung Ein vorhandener Diabetes mellitus sowie ein erhöhtes Risiko für Mangelernährung scheinen Einfluss auf die subjektive Einschätzung der Lebensqualität und auf die Komplikationsrate bei unfallchirurgischen Patienten zu haben. Um eine flächendeckende Erfassung und umfassende fachspezifische Therapie betroffener Patienten zukünftig zu gewährleisten, sollten interdisziplinäre Diabeteszentren etabliert werden. Damit könnten wahrscheinlich die Komplikationsraten und die daraus resultierenden höheren Behandlungskosten reduziert werden.
Highly Efficient Coupling of Unstable Bicyclic Pyrimidines and Pyrazoles under Basic Conditions, and its Application to the Synthesis of Pharmaceutical Compounds
Authors: Goi Takashi , Fukase Koichi
Published: July 2018

The efficient Pd-catalyzed coupling of unstable bicyclic pyrimidines and pyrazoles under basic conditions was established for the first time. The reactions proceeded with excellent yields without hydrolysis using Pd2(dba)3,
t
BuXPhos, and K3PO4.
A ‘Turn-on’ Fluorescence Glycosyl Dithiocarbamate Probe for Selective Fluoride Sensing in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Das Rituparna , Mukhopadhyay Balaram , Mishra Bedangshu
Published: July 2018

A glycosyl dithiocarbamate derivative is developed as a ‘turn on’ fluorescent sensor for fluorides in aqueous medium. The probe is prepared through a simple chemical strategy reported earlier from our group. The virtually nonfluorescent probe showed significant enhancement of fluorescence upon interaction with fluorides in aqueous solution. It was seen to be selective to fluorides too as the interactions with various other anions resulted in very low increase in fluorescence. The simple preparation and unique interaction of the dithiocarbamato derivative with fluorides in aqueous solution promise the development of a novel turn-on probe for the detection of fluorides.
Drug Use during Pregnancy and its Consequences: A Nested Case Control Study on Severe Maternal Morbidity
Authors: Pereira Cynara Maria , Pacagnella Rodolfo Carvalho , Parpinelli Mary Angela , Andreucci Carla Betina , Zanardi Dulce Maria , Souza Renato , Angelini Carina Robles , Silveira Carla , Cecatti José Guilherme
Published: July 2018

Objective To assess the relationship between the use of psychoactive substances during pregnancy and the occurrence of severe maternal morbidity (SMM), perinatal outcomes and repercussions on the neuropsychomotor development of exposed children.

Methods A case-control study nested within a cohort of severe maternal morbidity (COMMAG) was performed. Women with SMM were considered cases. Controls were those with low-risk pregnancy, without SMM and admitted during the same time period as the cases. Cohort data were collected retrospectively in hospital records for childbirth. A face-to-face interview was also performed with 638 women (323 without SMM and 315 with SMM) and their children of the index pregnancy between 6 months and 5 years after childbirth. During the interview, substance abuse during pregnancy was assessed by a modified question from the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test 2.0 (ASSIST) and the neuropsychomotor development in the children was assessed by the Denver Developmental Screening Test, 2nd edition.

Results The prevalence of licit or illicit drug use during pregnancy was ∼ 17%. Among drug users, 63.9% used alcohol, 58.3% used tobacco, 9.2% used cocaine/crack and 4.6% used marijuana. There was no association between drug use during pregnancy and SMM, although tobacco use during pregnancy was associated with bleeding, presence of near-miss clinical criteria (NMCC) and alteration in infant development; alcohol use was associated with neonatal asphyxia; and cocaine/crack use was associated with the occurrence of some clinical complications during pregnancy.

Conclusion The use of psychoactive substances during pregnancy is frequent and associated with worse maternal, perinatal and child development outcomes.
Die mentale Welt der Anderen
Authors: Mohnke S. , Walter H. , Tantchik W.
Published: July 2018

Das menschliche Gehirn verfügt über eine Reihe von Mechanismen, die uns in die Lage versetzen, die verborgenen mentalen Prozesse unserer Mitmenschen zu erkennen und zu verstehen. Diese Fähigkeiten werden unter dem Begriff Theory of Mind oder Mentalisieren zusammengefasst und haben sich in den letzten Jahrzehnten als bedeutendes Forschungsgebiet verschiedener Disziplinen – von der Entwicklungspsychologie über die kognitiven Neurowissenschaften bis zur Psychiatrie – etabliert. Dieser Artikel gibt einen kurzen Überblick über die Geschichte sowie Gegenwart der Forschung zu Theory of Mind. Im Fokus stehen die neuronalen Grundlagen dieser Fähigkeiten, neben der Beziehung von Theory of Mind zu dem verwandten Konzept der Empathie und der angenommenen Bedeutung des Spiegelneuronensystems werden auch Veränderungen im Verlauf der Entwicklung sowie Störungen im Rahmen psychiatrischer Erkrankungen thematisiert.
Mentalisierungsbasierte Therapie für Patienten mit Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung
Authors: Volkert J. , Bark C. , Taubner S.
Published: July 2018

Die Mentalisierungsbasierte Therapie (MBT) wurde ursprünglich für die Behandlung von Patienten mit Borderline Persönlichkeitsstörung (BPS) entwickelt. Das multi-dimensionale Konzept des Mentalisierens beschreibt die imaginative Fähigkeit, das eigene Verhalten und das Verhalten anderer Menschen durch Zuschreibung mentaler Gründe interpretieren zu können und gilt als ein zentrales Merkmal zur Erklärung der Ätiopathogenese von schweren Persönlichkeitsstörungen (insbesondere BPS). Die MBT versteht sich als eine integrative, manualisierte Methode mit psychodynamischen Wurzeln, die mittlerweile auch für andere Störungsbilder (wie z.B. Depressionen, Essstörungen) und verschiedene Altersgruppen adaptiert wurde. Die MBT umfasst Einzel- und Gruppensitzungen, ist auf ca. 12–18 Monate ausgelegt und kann im stationären und ambulanten Setting durchgeführt werden. Sie verfolgt mithilfe einer spezifischen offenen und neugierigen therapeutischen Haltung des „Nicht-Wissens” und MBT-spezifischen Interventionen (z.B. „Stop, Rewind, Explore” oder „Challenge” das Ziel, die Mentalisierungsfähigkeiten in affektiv bedeutsamen Beziehungen zu fördern. Es liegen bereits einige Wirksamkeitsnachweise von randomisiert-kontrollierten Studien für die MBT vor, jedoch sind weitere Untersuchungen zur spezifischen Wirksamkeit und transdiagnostische Weiterentwicklungen notwendig.
Gating related activity in a syringeal muscle allows the reconstruction of zebra finches songs
Authors: Döppler Juan F. , Bush Alan , Amador Ana , Goller Franz , Mindlin Gabriel B.
Published: July 2018

Birdsong production involves the simultaneous and precise control of a set of muscles that change the configuration and dynamics of the vocal organ. Although it has been reported that each one of the different muscles is primarily involved in the control of one acoustic feature, recent advances have shown that they act synergistically to achieve the dynamical state necessary for phonation. In this work, we present a set of criteria that allow the extraction of gating-related information from the electromyographic activity of the syringealis ventralis muscle, a muscle that has been shown to be involved in frequency modulation. Using dynamical models of the muscle and syringeal dynamics, we obtain a full reconstruction of the zebra finch song using only the activity of this muscle.
Electrical explosions of Al, Ti, Fe, Ni, Cu, Nb, Mo, Ag, Ta, W, W-Re, Pt, and Au wires in water: A comparison study
Authors: Han Ruoyu , Wu Jiawei , Qiu Aici , Ding Weidong , Zhang Yongmin
Published: July 2018

In this paper, an experimental study was performed to document the characteristics of underwater electrical explosions involving different wires made from 15 different metals/alloys. Experiments were undertaken with those wires (4 cm in length; 100–300 μm in diameter) driven by a pulsed current source with 500 J initial stored energy. The results indicated that the electrical and thermophysical properties of the metal were critical in the explosion process. Non-refractory metals, such as Al, Cu, Ag, and Au, absorbed about twice as much energy as their enthalpy of atomization before the voltage peak, while for refractory metals, such as Nb, Mo, Ta, and W, the deposited energy before the peak was close to their atomization enthalpy. Accordingly, the strongest measured shock wave for non-refractory metals was 12.4 MPa (peak pressure) while that for refractory metals was only 8.5 MPa (peak pressure). By contrast, the light intensities of non-refractory metals were at least an order of magnitude lower than those of refractory metals. From 100 to 300 μm, the estimated average temperature at the plasma-water interface decreased from ∼10 000 K to ∼4000 K. It was also found that, as evidenced from the time-integrated spectra, obvious chemical reactions occurred between water and relatively active metals such as Al, Ti, and Fe. In addition, Pt and Au, which have high first ionization energies, exhibited longer current pauses (>50 μs) or vaporization phases relative to the other metals.
Isotopic effect in microstability of electrostatic oscillations in magnetic mirror traps
Authors: Kotelnikov Igor A. , Chernoshtanov Ivan S.
Published: July 2018

It has been long known that Drift-Cyclotron Loss-Cone (DCLC) and Double-Humped (DH) oscillations can be unstable in a mirror trap because of the presence of an empty loss cone in the distribution of hot ions and that the instability can be suppressed by the addition of a small amount of warm ions with isotropic distribution. Unfortunately, previous analyses have been limited almost exclusively to the case when the populations of both hot and warm ions consist of the same single isotope. In the present paper, we studied the stability of DCLC and DH modes in a multispecies plasma with two different isotopes of hydrogen confined in a mirror trap. We found that both DCLC and DH microinstabilities can be suppressed by the addition of warm ions with isotropic Maxwellian distribution provided that the concentrations of different isotopes in the warm ion population are proportional to those in the population of hot ions. We came to the conclusion that overlapping of the full set of cyclotron harmonics of hot ions by the set of cyclotron harmonics of the warm ion mixture is essential for effective suppressing of the instability of DCLC and DH modes.
Fractal analysis of heart rate variability as a predictor of mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sen Jonathan , McGill Darryl
Published: July 2018

Previous studies have suggested benefits of applying fractal analysis to intervals between R waves in electrocardiography as an additional prognostic marker. The aim of this study was to investigate whether fractal analysis can provide an independent predictor of cardiac mortality or all-cause mortality. Prognostic cohort studies reporting fractal heart rate variability results from 24-h Holter monitor recordings were selected for comparison. Populations were subdivided into four groups—post-myocardial infarction, left ventricular dysfunction, other cardiac, and non-cardiac patients—and analysed using ANOVA, Forest plots (using pooled mean difference), and Funnel plots. The most significant mean differences were recorded in short-term fractal self-similarity (α1) (−0.17, 95% CI [−0.21, −0.13], p < 0.00001) and the traditional measure called standard deviation of NN intervals (SDNN) (−13.31, 95% CI [−18.89, −7.73], p < 0.00001) between the deceased and survivor groups. Fractal measures of long-term fractal self-similarity (α2), 1/f scaling (β), and traditional heart rate variability measures of high frequency to low frequency ratio show promise. This review indicated that fractal measure α1 and traditional measure SDNN could be potential predictors of mortality, but require further assessment to determine appropriate thresholds for clinical significance and additional targeted prognostic studies to properly define their applicability as prognostic markers. Therefore, clinicians should interpret fractal and traditional measures with caution since such measures have yet to be fully described as biomarkers for clinical application.
Unified hydrodynamics study for various types of fishes-like undulating rigid hydrofoil in a free stream flow
Authors: Thekkethil Namshad , Sharma Atul , Agrawal Amit
Published: July 2018

A generic kinematic model is presented for a unified hydrodynamics study covering the various types of motion found in real as well as hypothetical fish-like undulation. Undulating motion is presented here as a generic motion, considering chordwise forced flexibility—modelled by wavelength of undulation λ*—of a rigid NACA0012 hydrofoil in a free-stream flow. Using a level-set immersed boundary method-based in-house code, a non-dimensional study is presented for various wavelengths, λ* (0.8–8.0), and frequency of undulation, St (0.2–0.7), at a constant maximum amplitude of undulation of 0.1 and Reynolds number of 5000. A unified cause-and-effect-based analysis is presented with the help of flow patterns and propulsive performance parameters. Pressure contour demonstrates how the travelling wave distributes momentum in the streamwise direction and reduces the lateral force coefficient. Vorticity contours elucidate the mechanism of formation of reverse von Kármán vortex street and the secondary vortices. A correlation is proposed for thrust coefficient as a function of λ* and St. Good qualitative agreement is observed between the simulated results at smaller λ*-based undulating and larger λ*-based pitching foil and the published results for the anguilliform and thunniform fishes, respectively. The agreement with the real fishes is presented for the relative magnitude of thrust coefficient, propulsive efficiency, dynamic stabilization, and signal of the prey fish for the predator fish. Similar to propulsive performance of real fishes, larger (smaller) flexibility-based undulation (pitching) results in larger propulsive efficiency (thrust generation)—which can be used for the design of fish-like biomimetic propulsion system.
Acoustic Lock: Position and orientation trapping of non-spherical sub-wavelength particles in mid-air using a single-axis acoustic levitator
Authors: Cox L. , Croxford A. , Drinkwater B. W. , Marzo A.
Published: July 2018

We demonstrate acoustic trapping in both position and orientation of a non-spherical particle of sub-wavelength size in mid-air. To do so, we multiplex in time a pseudo-one-dimensional vertical standing wave and a twin-trap; the vertical standing wave provides converging forces that trap in position, whereas the twin-trap applies a stabilising torque that locks the orientation. The device operates at 40 kHz, and the employed multiplexing ratio of the 2 acoustic fields is 100:50 (standing:twin) periods. This ratio can be changed to provide tunability of the relative trapping strength and converging torque. The torsional spring stiffness of the trap is measured through simulations and experiments with good agreement. Cubes from λ/5.56 (1.5 mm) to λ/2.5 (3.4 mm) side length were stably locked. We also apply this technique to lock different non-spherical particles in mid-air: cubes, pyramids, cylinders, and insects such as flies and crickets. This technique adds significant functionality to mid-air acoustic levitation and will enable applications in micro-scale manufacturing as well as containment of specimens for examination and 3D-scanning.
Enhancement of electronic-transport switching in single-crystal narrower VO2 nanowire channels through side-gate electric fields
Authors: Chikanari Masashi , Kanki Teruo , Wei Tingting , Tanaka Hidekazu
Published: July 2018

Investigations of electric field-induced resistance modulation in correlated electron oxides with a metal-insulator transition play a significant role in understanding the behavior of nano-domains via electric perturbation and in paving the way for steep slope switching applications. Here, we report the dependence of the resistance switching effect on both the width of oxide nanowires and their crystallinity in VO2-based planar-type field effect transistors with an air nano-gap gate. A positive electric field yielded an expansion of the metallic nano-domains, while a negative one caused a depletion layer to form. Moreover, narrower VO2 nanowires and single crystal VO2 nanowires showed effective resistance modulation when the gate bias was varied. Our results provide an understanding of the electronic characteristics in metal-insulator nano-domains through carrier modulation and further the development of devices employing metal–insulator nano-domains.
Introduction to Focus Issue: Causation inference and information flow in dynamical systems: Theory and applications
Authors: Bollt Erik M. , Sun Jie , Runge Jakob
Published: July 2018

Questions of causation are foundational across science and often relate further to problems of control, policy decisions, and forecasts. In nonlinear dynamics and complex systems science, causation inference and information flow are closely related concepts, whereby “information” or knowledge of certain states can be thought of as coupling influence onto the future states of other processes in a complex system. While causation inference and information flow are by now classical topics, incorporating methods from statistics and time series analysis, information theory, dynamical systems, and statistical mechanics, to name a few, there remain important advancements in continuing to strengthen the theory, and pushing the context of applications, especially with the ever-increasing abundance of data collected across many fields and systems. This Focus Issue considers different aspects of these questions, both in terms of founding theory and several topical applications.
Extraction and accuracy assessment of DTMs derived from remotely sensed and field surveying approaches in GIS framework
Authors: Rizeei Hossein Mojaddadi , Pradhan Biswajeet
Published: July 2018

Generating a high precision continuous surface is a key capability required in most geographic information system (GIS) applications. In fact the most commonly used surface type is a digital elevation model (DEM). Recently, there are some sources of remote sensing data that provide DEM information such as; LiDAR, InSAR and ASTER GDEM which ranged from very high to low spatial resolution. However, new methods of topographic field surveying still highly on demand e.g. Differential GPS and Total station devices. In both method of capturing the terrain elevation the post processing need to be applied to create a continuous surface from point clouds. Geostatistical analysis were used to interpolate the taken sample points from site into continuous surface. In current research, we examined the height accuracy of LiDAR point clouds and total station dataset with three non-adoptive interpolation models including, invers distance weightage (IDW), nearest neighbour (NN) and radial basis function (RBF) based on referenced DGPS points. RMSE and R square regression analysis were conducted to reveal the most accurate approaches in pilot study area. The results showed Lidar surveying (less than 0.5 meter RMSE) has higher height accuracy compared to Total station surveying (above 1 meter in RMSE) to extract DTM in flat area; while consumed less computational processing time. Moreover, IDW was the best and accurate interpolation model in both datasets to generate raster cautious terrain model.
A fast adaptive algorithm for computing whole-genome homology maps
Authors: Jain Chirag , Koren Sergey , Dilthey Alexander , Phillippy Adam M , Aluru Srinivas
Published: July 2018

Motivation

Whole-genome alignment is an important problem in genomics for comparing different species, mapping draft assemblies to reference genomes and identifying repeats. However, for large plant and animal genomes, this task remains compute and memory intensive. In addition, current practical methods lack any guarantee on the characteristics of output alignments, thus making them hard to tune for different application requirements.

Results

We introduce an approximate algorithm for computing local alignment boundaries between long DNA sequences. Given a minimum alignment length and an identity threshold, our algorithm computes the desired alignment boundaries and identity estimates using kmer-based statistics, and maintains sufficient probabilistic guarantees on the output sensitivity. Further, to prioritize higher scoring alignment intervals, we develop a plane-sweep based filtering technique which is theoretically optimal and practically efficient. Implementation of these ideas resulted in a fast and accurate assembly-to-genome and genome-to-genome mapper. As a result, we were able to map an error-corrected whole-genome NA12878 human assembly to the hg38 human reference genome in about 1 min total execution time and <4 GB memory using eight CPU threads, achieving significant improvement in memory-usage over competing methods. Recall accuracy of computed alignment boundaries was consistently found to be >97% on multiple datasets. Finally, we performed a sensitive self-alignment of the human genome to compute all duplications of length ≥1 Kbp and ≥90% identity. The reported output achieves good recall and covers twice the number of bases than the current UCSC browser’s segmental duplication annotation.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/marbl/MashMap
Effusion: prediction of protein function from sequence similarity networks
Authors: Yunes Jeffrey M , Babbitt Patricia C
Published: July 2018

Motivation

Critical evaluation of methods for protein function prediction shows that data integration improves the performance of methods that predict protein function, but a basic BLAST-based method is still a top contender. We sought to engineer a method that modernizes the classical approach while avoiding pitfalls common to state-of-the-art methods.

Results

We present a method for predicting protein function, Effusion, which uses a sequence similarity network to add context for homology transfer, a probabilistic model to account for the uncertainty in labels and function propagation, and the structure of the Gene Ontology (GO) to best utilize sparse input labels and make consistent output predictions. Effusion’s model makes it practical to integrate rare experimental data and abundant primary sequence and sequence similarity. We demonstrate Effusion’s performance using a critical evaluation method and provide an in-depth analysis. We also dissect the design decisions we used to address challenges for predicting protein function. Finally, we propose directions in which the framework of the method can be modified for additional predictive power.

Availability and implementation

The source code for an implementation of Effusion is freely available at https://github.com/babbittlab/effusion.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
TIMING 2.0: high-throughput single-cell profiling of dynamic cell–cell interactions by time-lapse imaging microscopy in nanowell grids
Authors: Lu Hengyang , Li Jiabing , Martinez-Paniagua Melisa A , Bandey Irfan N , Amritkar Amit , Singh Harjeet , Mayerich David , Varadarajan Navin , Roysam Badrinath
Published: July 2018

Motivation

Automated profiling of cell–cell interactions from high-throughput time-lapse imaging microscopy data of cells in nanowell grids (TIMING) has led to fundamental insights into cell–cell interactions in immunotherapy. This application note aims to enable widespread adoption of TIMING by (i) enabling the computations to occur on a desktop computer with a graphical processing unit instead of a server; (ii) enabling image acquisition and analysis to occur in the laboratory avoiding network data transfers to/from a server and (iii) providing a comprehensive graphical user interface.

Results

On a desktop computer, TIMING 2.0 takes 5 s/block/image frame, four times faster than our previous method on the same computer, and twice as fast as our previous method (TIMING) running on a Dell PowerEdge server. The cell segmentation accuracy (f-number = 0.993) is superior to our previous method (f-number = 0.821). A graphical user interface provides the ability to inspect the video analysis results, make corrective edits efficiently (one-click editing of an entire nanowell video sequence in 5–10 s) and display a summary of the cell killing efficacy measurements.

Availability and implementation

Open source Python software (GPL v3 license), instruction manual, sample data and sample results are included with the Supplement (https://github.com/RoysamLab/TIMING2).

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Functional Subdivisions of Magnocellular Cell Groups in Human Basal Forebrain: Test–Retest Resting-State Study at Ultra-high Field, and Meta-analysis
Authors: Yuan Rui , Biswal Bharat B , Zaborszky Laszlo
Published: July 2018

The heterogeneous neuronal subgroups of the basal forebrain corticopetal system (BFcs) have been shown to modulate cortical functions through their cholinergic, gamma-aminobutyric acid-ergic, and glutamatergic projections to the entire cortex. Although previous studies suggested that the basalo-cortical projection system influences various cognitive functions, particularly via its cholinergic component, these studies only focused on certain parts of the BFcs or nearby structures, leaving aside a more systematic picture of the functional connectivity of BFcs subcompartments. Moreover, these studies lacked the high-spatial resolution and the probability maps needed to identify specific subcompartments. Recent advances in the ultra-high field 7T functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) provided potentially unprecedented spatial resolution of functional MRI images to study the subdivision of the BFcs. In this study, the BF space containing corticopetal cells was divided into 3 functionally distinct subdivisions based on functional connection to cortical regions derived from fMRI. The overall functional connection of each BFcs subdivision was examined with a test-retest study. Finally, a meta-analysis was used to study the related functional topics of each BF subdivision. Our results demonstrate distinct functional connectivity patterns of these subdivisions along the rostrocaudal axis of the BF. All three compartments have shown consistent segregation and overlap at specific target regions including the hippocampus, insula, thalamus, and the cingulate gyrus, suggesting functional integration and separation in BFcs.
Atypical Local and Distal Patterns of Occipito-frontal Functional Connectivity are Related to Symptom Severity in Autism
Authors: Jao Keehn R Joanne , Nair Sangeeta , Pueschel Ellyn B , Linke Annika C , Fishman Inna , Müller Ralph-Axel
Published: July 2018

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are increasingly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by sociocommunicative impairments. Growing consensus indicates that neurobehavioral abnormalities require explanation in terms of interconnected networks. Despite theoretical speculations about increased local and reduced distal connectivity, links between local and distal functional connectivity have not been systematically investigated in ASDs. Specifically, it remains open whether hypothesized local overconnectivity may reflect isolated versus overly integrative processing. Resting state functional MRI data from 57 children and adolescents with ASDs and 51 typically developing (TD) participants were included. In regional homogeneity (ReHo) analyses, pericalcarine visual cortex was found be locally overconnected (ASD > TD). Using this region as seed in whole-brain analyses, we observed overconnectivity in distal regions, specifically middle frontal gyri, for an ASD subgroup identified through k-means clustering. While in this subgroup local occipital to distal frontal overconnectivity was associated with greater symptom severity, a second subgroup showed the opposite pattern of connectivity and symptom severity correlations. Our findings suggest that increased local connectivity in ASDs is region-specific and may be partially associated with more integrative long-distance connectivity. Results also highlight the need to test for subtypes, as differential patterns of brain–behavior links were observed in two distinct subgroups of our ASD cohort.
Endoscopic Endonasal Resection of Orbital Apex Cavernous Hemangioma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Marcellino Chris R , Peris-Celda Maria , Link Michael J , Stokken Janalee K
Published: July 2018

A 52-yr-old woman was referred to a tertiary medical center for evaluation of 2 yr of progressive visual symptoms and 1 yr of retro-orbital pressure. Her ophthalmologic exam was unrevealing except for mild asymmetrical impairment in color perception. A gadolinium contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance image of the head showed a left extraconal orbital apex lesion consistent with cavernous hemangioma. Computed tomography reveled bony remodeling of the medial-inferior orbital walls with superior orbital fissure expansion.

The lesion was endoscopically resected and confirmed by pathological analysis. The endoscopic approach is demonstrated in detail, including correlation with cadaveric anatomic specimens‡. During the approach, a rescue nasoseptal flap was raised in case the orbit required further support after tumor resection, but was replaced as this was not needed. This patient had a brief period of postoperative diplopia, which resolved 1 wk after surgery. Her subjective visual deficits and pressure have also resolved.

Advantages of the endoscopic approach include improved direct visualization of the lesion, lack of external skin incisions, avoidance of significant neurovascular retraction, and shorter hospital stays than alternative orbitotomy or craniotomy approaches. This 4-handed approach demands endoscopic expertise of 2 surgeons, and is often performed by rhinology-neurosurgery or rhinology-ophthalmology surgical teams. The risk of postoperative diplopia should be discussed with the patient during informed consent.

‡ Anatomic specimen photography courtesy Dr Peris-Celda.
The Impact of Introducing a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Trauma Consultation Service to an Academic Level 1 Trauma Center
Authors: Robinson Lawrence R. , Tam Alan K. H. , MacDonald Shannon L. , Hanada Edwin Y. , Berbrayer David , Abdullahi Abdikarim , Camilotti Bruna G. , Tien Homer
Published: July 2018

Objective

Previous retrospective studies suggest that early physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) consultation for trauma patients improves outcome and reduces acute care length of stay (LOS). There have not been controlled studies to evaluate this impact. This study assesses the impact of PM&R consultations on acute trauma patients.

Design

This study compared measured outcomes before and after the introduction of a PM&R consultation service to the trauma program at a large academic hospital. The primary outcome measure was acute care LOS.

Results

The 274 historical controls and 76 patients who received a PM&R consultation were not different in injury severity score, age, or sex. Length of stay was not different between the two groups. However, when early (≤8 days after injury) versus late (>8 days) consults were compared, the early group had a markedly lower LOS (12 vs. 30 days, P < 0.001). When adjusted for injury severity score, an early consult was associated with an 11.8-day lower LOS (P < 0.001). The early consult group also had fewer complications and less usage of benzodiazepines and antipsychotics.

Conclusions

An acute care PM&R consultation of 8 days or less after admission is associated with a shorter acute care LOS, fewer complications, and less use of benzodiazepines and antipsychotics.
A Mobile App to Increase Informed Decisions About Colorectal Cancer Screening Among African American and Caucasian Women
Authors: Brittain Kelly , Kamp Kendra , Cassandras Christos , Salaysay Zachary , Gómez-Márquez José
Published: July 2018

At this time, there are no interactive mobile apps designed to increase informed decisions about colorectal cancer screening among women. Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death among women. The study's purpose was to explore the usability, acceptability, and satisfaction with a mobile app designed to increase colorectal cancer screening informed decisions among 50- to 64-year-old women. Using previous research, an interactive mobile app to increase informed decisions about colorectal cancer screening was developed and pilot tested among African American and Caucasian women (N = 41). In total, 80.6% of women strongly agree/agreed that the mobile app made them think about colorectal cancer screening, 83.8% strongly agree/agreed that the mobile app provided enough information to make a decision about colorectal cancer screening, and 86.1% strongly agree/agreed that the mobile app could help them talk to their provider about colorectal cancer screening. Participants (63.2%) identified family/spouse as who they would talk to about their colorectal cancer screening decision. Participants found the mobile app easy to use and useful in making colorectal cancer screening decisions. Social support is important when making decisions about colorectal cancer screening. Healthcare professionals need new strategies, such as mobile apps, that engage patients, have the potential to increase patient–provider communication, and increase colorectal cancer screening adherence.