bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and numerical investigation on the transient vascular thermal response to multi‐pulse Nd:YAG laser
Authors: Li Dong , Li Ruohui , Jia Hao , Chen Bin , Wu Wenjuan , Ying Zhaoxia
Published: June 2017

Background and Objective

Port wine stains (PWS) are congenital vascular malformations that progressively darken and thicken with age. Laser therapy is currently the most effective way in clinical practice for PWS. A 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser in the near‐infrared band can achieve a deeper treatment depth compared to the current widely adopted pulsed dye laser. However, because of its relatively weak absorption by blood, single‐pulse Nd:YAG laser requires high energy density to cause effective vessel damage, but may inflict undesirable burning to surrounding collagen. Multi‐pulse laser has great potential in clinical treatment because it needs less energy density for each pulse. This paper presented an experimental and theoretical study of the transient thermal effects of low‐energy multi‐pulse Nd:YAG laser on blood vessels.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In vivo experiments were performed on dorsal skin chamber. By using a high speed camera (up to 2,000 fps), the complete and dynamic thermal response of blood vessels during laser irradiation and between pulse intervals was obtained. In vitro experiment in capillary tubes and Numerical simulations by two‐scale heat transfer model were also conducted to further explore the in vivo experimental findings.

Results

The complete and dynamic response of blood vessels were obtained, including vessel dilation, thrombus formation, partial vessel constriction, thread‐like constriction, cavitation and bubbles, and hemorrhage. Thread‐like constriction is the desirable treatment end point, which will only occur after thrombus completely occludes the vessel lumen. Cavitation can cause hemorrhage when thrombus fails to occlude the vessel lumen. In vitro experiment found that vessel constriction was due to the constriction of thrombus induced by laser irradiation. Theoretical investigation revealed that the mechanism for the effective reduction of energy density by multi‐pulse Nd:YAG laser was due to enhanced light absorption of the blood with thrombus formation.

Conclusions

For multi‐pulse treatment, laser parameters are recommended as repetition rate of 10 Hz and pulse number of 10. The incident energy in each pulse should be strong enough to induce blood coagulation through seven or eight pulses and should be lower than the threshold of blood cavitation. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:852–865, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Moving up in taste: Enhanced projected taste and freshness of moving food products
Authors: Gvili Yaniv , Tal Aner , Amar Moty , Wansink Brian
Published: June 2017

Can implied motion enhance consumer judgment of food freshness and taste? Freshness plays an important role in determining anticipated taste. Different perceptual cues may influence judgments of freshness. While some cues such as coloring and bruising play an obvious role, the authors argue that cues that on face value appear unrelated to freshness may also influence judgments of freshness. Specifically, the authors argue that humans have learned to relate movement to food freshness, and that this leads perceived motion to generate enhanced judgments of freshness, and, consequently, projected taste. This proposition is demonstrated in four studies. The studies show that the inclusion of implied motion in food pictures leads to elevated judgments of freshness and projected taste.
Computational Studies of the Active and Inactive Regulatory Domains of Response Regulator PhoP Using Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Qing Xiao‐Yu , Steenackers Hans , Venken Tom , De Maeyer Marc , Voet Arnout
Published: June 2017

The response regulator PhoP is part of the PhoP/PhoQ two‐component system, which is responsible for regulating the expression of multiple genes involved in controlling virulence, biofilm formation, and resistance to antimicrobial peptides. Therefore, modulating the transcriptional function of the PhoP protein is a promising strategy for developing new antimicrobial agents. There is evidence suggesting that phosphorylation‐mediated dimerization in the regulatory domain of PhoP is essential for its transcriptional function. Disruption or stabilization of protein‐protein interactions at the dimerization interface may inhibit or enhance the expression of PhoP‐dependent genes. In this study, we performed molecular dynamics simulations on the active and inactive dimers and monomers of the PhoP regulatory domains, followed by pocket‐detecting screenings and a quantitative hot‐spot analysis in order to assess the druggability of the protein. Consistent with prior hypothesis, the calculation of the binding free energy shows that phosphorylation enhances dimerization of PhoP. Furthermore, we have identified two different putative binding sites at the dimerization active site (the α4‐β5‐α5 face) with energetic “hot‐spot” areas, which could be used to search for modulators of protein‐protein interactions. This study delivers insight into the dynamics and druggability of the dimerization interface of the PhoP regulatory domain, and may serve as a basis for the rational identification of new antimicrobial drugs.
Impact of episiotomy on the urogenital hiatus using transperineal ultrasound
Authors: Cassadó Garriga Jordi , Carmona Ruiz Ana , Pessarrodona Isern Antoni , Rodríguez Carballeira Monica , Esteve Serena Esther , García Manau Pablo , Valls Esteve Marta , Huguet Galofré Eva
Published: June 2017

Aims

To analyze whether episiotomy affects the urogenital hiatal area and the difference in the hiatus at rest and during contraction, as an indirect measurement of the contractile capacity of the levator ani muscle.

Methods

We performed an observational, comparative, retrospective study of primiparous women who had normal vaginal deliveries. The urogenital hiatal area was compared in women with and without episiotomy. All women underwent transperineal ultrasound scanning after delivery, and all the images were analyzed offline by the principal investigator who was blinded to all clinical data. The urogenital hiatal area was measured at rest and during both Valsalva and contraction manoeuvres. The difference in the hiatus at rest and during contraction was also calculated. These scanning variables were compared between the study groups.

Results

In total, 194 women were analysed (101 with, and 93 without, episiotomy). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups regarding the area of the hiatus at rest (P = 0.583), on Valsalva (P = 0.158), and on contraction (P = 0.468), or in the difference in the hiatus at rest and during contraction (P = 0.095).

Conclusions

In normal vaginal delivery, neither the area of the urogenital hiatus nor its difference at rest and during contraction, as measured by ultrasound, were modified by performing an episiotomy.
Structural study of the bladder in fetuses with prune belly syndrome
Authors: Julio Junior Helce R. , Costa Suelen F. , Costa Waldemar S. , Barcellos Sampaio Francisco J. , Favorito Luciano A.
Published: June 2017

Aims

To study the bladder structure of fetuses with prune belly syndrome (PBS).

Methods

We studied three bladders obtained from three male fetuses with PBS and seven bladders from seven male fetuses without anomalies. Each bladder was dissected and embedded in paraffin, from which 5 μm thick sections were obtained and stained with Masson's trichrome (to quantify connective tissue and smooth muscle) and picrosirius red with polarization (to observe collagen). Immunohistochemistry with tubulin (Tubulin, beta III, Mouse Monoclonal Antibody) was applied to observe the bladder nerves. The images were captured with an Olympus BX51 microscope and Olympus DP70 camera. The stereological analysis was done with the Image Pro and Image J programs, using a grid to determine volumetric densities (Vv). Means were statistically compared using the Mann‐Whitney test (P < 0.05).

Results

Quantitative analysis documented that smooth muscle fibers were significantly smaller (P = 0.04) in PBS fetuses (9.67% to 17.75%, mean = 13.2%) compared to control group (13.33% to 26.56%, mean = 17.43%). The analysis of collagen fibers showed predominance of green in the control group, suggesting collagen type III presence, and predominance of red in the in PBS fetal bladders, suggesting collagen type I presence in this group. The qualitative analysis of the nerves with immunohistochemistry with tubulin showed predominance of nerves in the control group.

Conclusion

The bladder in PBS had lower concentrations of smooth muscle fibers, collagen type III, and nerves. These structural alterations can be one of the factors involved in urinary tract abnormality such as distended bladder in patients with PBS.
A multigrid perspective on the parallel full approximation scheme in space and time
Authors: Bolten Matthias , Moser Dieter , Speck Robert
Published: June 2017

For the numerical solution of time‐dependent partial differential equations, time‐parallel methods have recently been shown to provide a promising way to extend prevailing strong‐scaling limits of numerical codes. One of the most complex methods in this field is the “Parallel Full Approximation Scheme in Space and Time” (PFASST). PFASST already shows promising results for many use cases and benchmarks. However, a solid and reliable mathematical foundation is still missing. We show that, under certain assumptions, the PFASST algorithm can be conveniently and rigorously described as a multigrid‐in‐time method. Following this equivalence, first steps towards a comprehensive analysis of PFASST using blockwise local Fourier analysis are taken. The theoretical results are applied to examples of diffusive and advective type.
Feasibility and safety of home exercise training in children with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Liem Robert I. , Akinosun Moriyike , Muntz Devin S. , Thompson Alexis A.
Published: June 2017

Exercise guidelines do not exist for individuals with sickle cell anemia (SCA) despite the impact of disease‐related complications on physical functioning. Thirteen subjects (mean 15.1 ± 2.8 years old) with SCA were prescribed three exercise sessions/week for 12 weeks on a stationary bicycle placed at home. In total, 77% of subjects completed 89% of prescribed sessions without exercise‐related adverse events, thus meeting feasibility and safety criteria. Adherence to prescribed duration and target heart rate during training decreased during the second half of the study. Future trials are warranted to further evaluate training benefits associated with regular exercise in children with SCA.
Epithelioid hemangioendotheliomas of the liver and lung in children and adolescents
Authors: Hettmer Simone , Andrieux Geoffroy , Hochrein Jochen , Kurz Philipp , Rössler Jochen , Lassmann Silke , Werner Martin , von Bubnoff Nikolas , Peters Christoph , Koscielniak Ewa , Sparber‐Sauer Monika , Niemeyer Charlotte , Mentzel Thomas , Busch Hauke , Boerries Melanie
Published: June 2017

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a rare, vascular sarcoma. Visceral forms arise in the liver/ lungs. We review the clinical and molecular phenotype of pediatric visceral EHE based on the case of a 9‐year‐old male child with EHE of the liver/lungs. His tumor expressed the EHE‐specific fusion oncogene WWTR1‐CAMTA1. Molecular characterization revealed a low somatic mutation rate and activated interferon signaling, angiogenesis regulation, and blood vessel remodeling. After polychemotherapy and resection of lung tumors, residual disease remained stable on oral lenalidomide. Literature review identified another 24 children with EHE of the liver/lungs. Most presented with multifocal, systemic disease. Only those who underwent complete resection achieved complete remission. Four children experienced rapid progression and died. In six children, disease remained stable for years without therapy. Two patients died from progressive EHE 21 and 24 years after first diagnosis. Natural evolution of pediatric visceral EHE is variable, and long‐term prognosis remains unclear.
Effect of dicumyl peroxide concentration on the polymerization kinetics of a polysilazane system
Authors: D'Elia Raffaele , Dusserre Gilles , Del Confetto Sylvie , Eberling‐Fux Nicolas , Descamps Cédric , Cutard Thierry
Published: June 2017

The effect of dicumyl peroxide (DCPO) concentration on the polymerization kinetics of a polysilazane system has been investigated through DSC analyses. DCPO acts as polymerization initiator by activating the polyaddition of vinyl groups. The overall heat of reaction is found to be a linear function of the DCPO concentration above 1.5 wt%, due to the addition of the heat of fully initiated polymerization and the heat of DCPO decomposition. Below 1.5 wt% of DCPO, the polymerisation of polysilazane is not fully initiated and only part of the reaction occurs. The resulting overall heat of reaction is therefore lower than that provided by the linear law valid for higher concentrations. A two‐reaction kinetic model built on this interpretation leads to a satisfactory representation of the DSC analyses performed for each DCPO concentration between 0.1 and 20 wt%. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:859–869, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Cover Image, Volume 66, Issue 7
Authors: Di Bello Maria Pia , Mergola Lucia , Scorrano Sonia , Del Sole Roberta
Published: June 2017

The cover image, by Maria Pia Di Bello et al., is based on the Research Article Towards a new strategy of a chitosan‐based molecularly imprinted membrane for removal of 4‐nitrophenol in real water samples, DOI: 10.1002/pi.5360.

image
Hill climbing hysteresis of perovskite‐based solar cells: a maximum power point tracking investigation
Authors: Pellet Norman , Giordano Fabrizio , Ibrahim Dar M. , Gregori Giuliano , Zakeeruddin Shaik Mohammed , Maier Joachim , Grätzel Michael
Published: June 2017

The surge of the power conversion efficiency of metal halide lead perovskite solar cells comes with concerns, such as the long‐term ecotoxicity of lead compounds, their sensitivity toward moisture and oxygen, or the scarcity of some of their components. Most perovskite solar cells still suffer from serious stability problems when measured under real working conditions (maximum power point tracking at 60°C). In the long run, stability will certainly decide on the fate of CH3NH3PbI3 and related lead perovskites for their use in photovoltaic modules. Herein, we show an effective and inexpensive strategy to perform ageing of perovskite solar cells under maximum power point tracking. For the first time, we analyze the issue of power extraction from solar cells exhibiting hysteresis. We show that a standard tracking algorithm such as perturb and observe fails to converge to the maximum power point of the solar cell if it exhibits j(V) hysteresis, and we present an effective strategy to stabilize the algorithm. We show that enforcing oscillations in forward bias can boost the mean power output of some perovskite solar cells by more than 10%, in contrast to a reference crystalline silicon solar cell. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A rapid and easy protein N‐terminal profiling strategy using (N‐Succinimidyloxycarbonylmethyl)tris(2,4,6‐trimethoxyphenyl)phosphonium bromide (TMPP) labeling and StageTip
Authors: Li Yanchang , Wang Zhiqiang , Zhou Wenjing , Zhang Kun , Ma Jie , Wu Feilin , Ji Jianguo , Hong Xuechuan , Deng Zixin , He Simin , Xu Ping
Published: June 2017

Protein N‐terminal profiling is crucial when characterizing biological functions and provides proteomic evidences for genome reannotations. However, most of the current N‐terminal enrichment approaches involve multiple chemical derivatizations and chromatographic separation processes which are time consuming and can contribute to N‐terminal peptide losses. In this study, a fast, one‐step approach utilizing (N‐Succinimidyloxycarbonylmethyl)tris(2,4,6‐trimethoxyphenyl)phosphonium bromide (TMPP) derivatization and StageTip separation was developed to enhance N‐terminal peptide enrichment and analysis. Based on the characteristics of TMPP‐derivatized samples, such as a higher hydrophobicity and increased likelihood to produce a and b ions in collision‐induced dissociation or HCD fragmentation modes, first the SDS‐PAGE was optimized to increase protein loading and gel entry and to remove unbound TMPP. Then, this process was combined with a simplified StageTip separation and a new scoring criterion (considering a, b and y ions) to identify more TMPP‐modified N‐terminal spectra. When utilizing a low amount of starting material (∼20 μg protein), a total of 581 yeast N‐terminal peptides were identified, with 485 of them being TMPP modified, in only about one third of the general experimental time. It is hoped that the workflow constructed herein will provide a fast and practical strategy for N‐terminomic studies.
Thermoelectric performance in n‐type bulk silicon: The influence of dopant concentration and dopant species
Authors: Bennett Nick S.
Published: June 2017

Silicon (Si) has received recent interest for thermoelectric (TE) applications. For all TE materials, accurately tuning the doping concentration remains the easiest way to maximise the thermoelectric figure‐of‐merit (ZT). This study investigates the thermoelectric properties at 300 K of n‐type Si as a function of both dopant concentration (N ∼1019–1020 cm−3) and dopant species (P, As and Sb), including measurements of electrical resistivity, thermal conductivity, Seebeck coefficient and Hall mobility. All properties were found to vary as a function of both doping concentration and species, leading to impacts on the ZT. The electrical resistivity was lowest for P‐doped Si and highest in Sb‐doped Si. For the Seebeck coefficient, the situation was reversed. The thermal conductivity was lowest for Sb‐doping and highest in P‐doped Si. In all cases As‐doping was the intermediate dopant. An optimum doping concentration was realized at a value of ∼6–7 × 1019cm−3, and is similar for both As‐ and P‐doped Si. For Sb‐doping, the optimum value is likely to be similar, but the highest doping in commercially available wafers was ∼4 × 1019cm−3. At 300 K, ZT ∼0.010 is achieved for P‐doped bulk Si, however the best overall value was for As‐doped Si, at ∼0.013. For Sb doping the best value is ∼0.012, though a higher value is likely to be possible, but only if doping levels approximately double the concentrations available for this current study can be achieved in starting substrates. These results provide a useful insight for researchers who are selecting a starting substrate for top‐down nano‐structuring approaches to Si thermoelectrics, where a wafer with optimised ZT is required.
Southern Hemisphere summertime Rossby waves and weather in the Australian region
Authors: O'Brien Laura , Reeder Michael J.
Published: June 2017

Motivated by recent studies on the significant summertime weather patterns in the Australian region, the life cycle of summertime transient Rossby wave packets in the Southern Hemisphere is investigated. The strength of the interaction I between the wave packets and the jet is defined by the advection of potential vorticity by the divergent part of the wind on the 350 K isentropic surface. The magnitude of I is used as the basis for time‐lagged composites in distinct regions: southwest Chile, southwest Africa, over the Indian Ocean, southwest Australia, and over the West Pacific. The interaction is strongest on the stratospheric side of the jet core. Although in each case cyclogenesis from a pre‐existing disturbance in the upper troposphere precedes the generation of the Rossby wave packets, there are two types of interaction with the jet. In the souhwest Chile, southwest Africa and Indian Ocean cases, extratropical cyclogenesis and the associated convection lies on the poleward side of the jet, and hence I is positive. In the southwest Australia and West Pacific cases, extratropical cyclogenesis occurs 3 days earlier than the others, and I is negative as it describes the interaction of a downstream propagating Rossby wave packet with the subtropical jet. In all cases, as the cyclones develop, the wave activity propagates from low levels to the upper levels of the troposphere, and then downstream and equatorwards towards higher values of refractive index. The equatorward refraction of the southwest Australia and West Pacific wave packets is accompanied by enhanced tropical convection in the warm conveyor belt of the advancing front.
Recordings and Analysis of Atomic Ledge and Dislocation Movements in InGaAs to Nickelide Nanowire Phase Transformation
Authors: Chen Renjie , Dayeh Shadi A.
Published: June 2017

The formation of low resistance and self‐aligned contacts with thermally stable alloyed phases is a prerequisite for realizing reliable functionality in ultrascaled semiconductor transistors. Detailed structural analysis of the phase transformation accompanying contact alloying can facilitate contact engineering as transistor channels approach a few atoms across. Original in situ heating transmission electron microscopy studies are carried out to record and analyze the atomic scale dynamics of contact alloy formation between Ni and In0.53Ga0.47As nanowire channels. It is observed that the nickelide reacts on the In0.53Ga0.47As (111) || Ni2In0.53Ga0.47As (0001) interface with atomic ledge propagation along the Ni2In0.53Ga0.47As direction. Ledges nucleate as a train of strained single‐bilayers and propagate in‐plane as double‐bilayers that are associated with a misfit dislocation of . The atomic structure is reconstructed to explain this phase transformation that involves collective gliding of three Shockley partials in In0.53Ga0.47As lattice to cancel out shear stress and the formation of misfit dislocations to compensate the large lattice mismatch in the newly formed nickelide phase and the In0.53Ga0.47As layers. This work demonstrates the applicability of interfacial disconnection (ledge + dislocation) theory in a nanowire channel during thermally induced phase transformation that is typical in metal/III–V semiconductor reactions.
In‐Plane Uniaxial Strain in Black Phosphorus Enables the Identification of Crystalline Orientation
Authors: Zhang Shuqing , Mao Nannan , Wu Juanxia , Tong Lianming , Zhang Jin , Liu Zhirong
Published: June 2017

Identification of the crystalline axis of anisotropic black phosphorus (BP) is important for investigating its physical properties, as well as for optical and electronic applications. Herein, it is showed that by applying in‐plane uniaxial strain and measuring the changes of the Raman shifts, the crystalline axis of BP can be reliably determined. The strain effects on the Raman shifts are angle‐dependent, and they can be expressed as a combination of the Raman responses under zigzag and armchair strain. Differing from previous polarized optical spectroscopic methods where the Raman intensity is analyzed, the proposed method uses the Raman frequency shift, which is less affected by laser polarization, excitation wavelength, the sample thickness, and the substrate. The effective strain applied on BP from the stretched substrate is estimated, and the results show that only 20 to 40% of the strain can be effectively transferred to BP flakes from a polyethylene terephthalate substrate. Our method provides not only an effective and robust approach to identify the crystalline orientation of layered BP, but it is also a model to extract additional information in strain‐related studies. It can also be extended to other 2D anisotropic materials.
Multifunctional Hyperbolic Nanogroove Metasurface for Submolecular Detection
Authors: Jiang Li , Zeng Shuwen , Xu Zhengji , Ouyang Qingling , Zhang Dao‐Hua , Chong Peter Han Joo , Coquet Philippe , He Sailing , Yong Ken‐Tye
Published: June 2017

Metasurface serves as a promising plasmonic sensing platform for engineering the enhanced light–matter interactions. Here, a hyperbolic metasurface with the nanogroove structure in the subwavelength scale is designed. This metasurface is able to modify the wavefront and wavelength of surface plasmon wave with the variation of the nanogroove width or periodicity. At the specific optical frequency, surface plasmon polaritons are tightly confined and propagated with a diffraction‐free feature due to the epsilon‐near‐zero effect. Most importantly, the groove hyperbolic metasurface can enhance the plasmonic sensing with an ultrahigh phase sensitivity of 30 373 deg RIU−1 and Goos–Hänchen shift sensitivity of 10.134 mm RIU−1. The detection resolution for refractive index change of glycerol solution is achieved as 10−8 RIU based on the phase measurement. The detection limit of bovine serum albumin (BSA) molecule is measured as low as 0.1 × 10−18m (1 × 10−19 mol L−1), which corresponds to a submolecular detection level (0.13 BSA mm−2). As for low‐weight biotin molecule, the detection limit is estimated below 1 × 10−15m (1 × 10−15 mol L−1, 1300 biotin mm−2). This enhanced plasmonic sensing performance is two orders of magnitude higher than those with current state‐of‐art plasmonic metamaterials and metasurfaces.
Recent Progress on Localized Field Enhanced Two‐dimensional Material Photodetectors from Ultraviolet—Visible to Infrared
Authors: Wang Jianlu , Fang Hehai , Wang Xudong , Chen Xiaoshuang , Lu Wei , Hu Weida
Published: June 2017

Two‐dimensional (2D) materials have drawn tremendous attention in recent years. Being atomically thin, stacked with van der Waals force and free of surface chemical dangling bonds, 2D materials exhibit several distinct physical properties. To date, 2D materials include graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDS), black phosphorus, black P(1‐x)Asx, boron nitride (BN) and so forth. Owing to their various bandgaps, 2D materials have been utilized for photonics and optoelectronics. Photodetectors based on 2D materials with different structures and detection mechanisms have been established and present excellent performance. In this Review, localized field enhanced 2D material photodetectors (2DPDs) are introduced with sensitivity over the spectrum from ultraviolet, visible to infrared in the sight of the influence of device structure on photodetector performance instead of directly illustrating the detection mechanisms. Six types of localized fields are summarized. They are: ferroelectric field, photogating electric field, floating gate induced electrostatic field, interlayer built‐in field, localized optical field, and photo‐induced temperature gradient field, respectively. These localized fields are proved to effectively promote the detection ability of 2DPDs by suppressing background noise, enhancing optical absorption, improving electron‐hole separation efficiency, amplifying photoelectric gain and/or extending the detection range.
Potassium‐Based Dual Ion Battery with Dual‐Graphite Electrode
Authors: Fan Ling , Liu Qian , Chen Suhua , Lin Kairui , Xu Zhi , Lu Bingan
Published: June 2017

A potassium ion battery has potential applications for large scale electric energy storage systems due to the abundance and low cost of potassium resources. Dual graphite batteries, with graphite as both anode and cathode, eliminate the use of transition metal compounds and greatly lower the overall cost. Herein, combining the merits of the potassium ion battery and dual graphite battery, a potassium‐based dual ion battery with dual‐graphite electrode is developed. It delivers a reversible capacity of 62 mA h g−1 and medium discharge voltage of ≈3.96 V. The intercalation/deintercalation mechanism of K+ and PF6− into/from graphite is proposed and discussed in detail, with various characterizations to support.
Informing System Design Using Human Performance Modeling
Authors: Watson Michael , Rusnock Christina , Miller Michael , Colombi John
Published: June 2017

Humans play a key role in the operation and support of most systems and model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) offers new opportunities to properly consider human capabilities and involvement. This research presents an approach for systems engineers to integrate system models with human performance modeling for early and more effective system design. Unlike analyses using traditional physics‐based models found in most extant MBSE literature, adjusting system parameters for human‐based analyses can greatly impact the design of the system itself. Adjusting a human‐system parameter can lead to design implications including adjustments to task allocation, process and workflow, and interface design. To demonstrate this, a quantitative case‐study approach is used. Starting with a set of Systems Modeling Language (SysML) diagrams, a task analysis is performed to inform an “as is” model of human performance in the Improved Performance Research Integration Tool (IMPRINT). An alternative IMPRINT model is created with varying design parameters and utilized to perform a trade study. Through the analysis, constraints and assumptions placed on the human are verified and the results of varying automation estimated. With current design emphasis in MBSE and model‐based engineering (MBE), there is great opportunity to emphasize human considerations and integrate human performance analysis.
Successful fertility‐sparing surgery and chemotherapy for stage IC3 ovarian cancer with the postoperative use of the traditional Japanese herbal formulation hachimijiogan: A case report
Authors: Nishio Eiji , Kawai Satoshi , Akita Eri , Fujii Takuma
Published: June 2017

Case

A 32‐year old, unmarried, nulligravida woman was diagnosed as having ovarian cancer stage IC3. The patient received six cycles of carboplatin and paclitaxel every 4 weeks after surgery. She was given a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist as an ovarian safeguard while receiving treatment with anticancer agents.

Outcome

After treatment with the traditional Japanese herbal formulation hachimijiogan and oral contraceptives, the patient spontaneously became pregnant and gave birth to a healthy baby at 40 gestational weeks.

Conclusion

A hachimijiogan treatment may be effective for treating decreased ovarian function following chemotherapy.
Postnatal outcome of fetal isolated ventricular size disproportion in the absence of aortic coarctation
Authors: van Nisselrooij A. E. L. , Rozendaal L. , Linskens I. H. , Clur S. A. , Hruda J. , Pajkrt E. , van Velzen C. L. , Blom N. A. , Haak M. C.
Published: June 2017

Objective

Cardiac ventricular size disproportion is a marker for aortic coarctation (CoA) in fetal life, but approximately 50% of fetuses do not have CoA after birth. The aim of this study was to evaluate the postnatal outcome of cases with fetal ventricular size disproportion in the absence of CoA after birth.

Methods

All cases with fetal isolated ventricular size disproportion diagnosed between 2002 and 2015 were extracted from a prenatal congenital heart defects regional registry. Cases were stratified according to presence or absence (non‐CoA) of aortic arch anomalies after birth. Postnatal outcome of non‐CoA cases was evaluated by assessing the presence of cardiac and other congenital malformations, genetic syndromes and other morbidity after birth. Non‐CoA cases were further classified according to whether they had cardiovascular pathology requiring medication or intervention.

Results

Seventy‐seven cases with fetal ventricular size disproportion were identified, of which 46 (60%) did not have CoA after birth. Of these, 35 did not require cardiovascular intervention or medication, whereas 11 did. Of the 46 non‐CoA cases, six presented with clinical pulmonary hypertension requiring treatment after birth, cardiac defects were present in 24 cases and syndromic features were seen in four. Overall, 43% of all non‐CoA children were still under surveillance at the end of the study period.

Conclusions

The postnatal course of cases with fetal ventricular size disproportion is complicated by prenatally undetected congenital defects (46%) and pulmonary or transition problems (35%) in a significant number of cases that do not develop CoA. Proper monitoring of these cases is therefore warranted and it is advisable to incorporate the risks for additional morbidity and neonatal complications in prenatal counseling. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Detecting deceptive engagement in social media by temporal pattern analysis of user behaviors: a survey
Authors: Xiao Qian , Bertino Elisa
Published: June 2017

Deceptive engagement in social media, such as spamming, commenting, or rating with automatic scripts, spreading fabricated facts, seriously affects users’ trust on online services. Given the large volumes of information generated by users, effectively spotting users involved such deceptive engagement has become a challenging problem. Recent research has shown that techniques for analyzing temporal behavioral patterns are critical to address such problem. In this study, we survey recent advances in these techniques. We first summarize three approaches to model temporal information. Then, by using representative application examples, we discuss recent approaches with respect to their applications to real‐world large‐scale social media. With a focus on the temporal perspective, we then discuss advantages and challenges of each approach. WIREs Data Mining Knowl Discov 2017, 7:e1210. doi: 10.1002/widm.1210

This article is categorized under:

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Knowledge Representation

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Motivation and Emergence of Data Mining

Technologies > Prediction
STARR with Contour Transtar for Obstructed Defecation Syndrome: Long‐Term Results
Authors: Mari Francesco Saverio , Pezzatini Massimo , Gasparrini Marcello , Antonio Brescia
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) is a widespread and disabling syndrome. With this study, we want to evaluate the long‐term results of stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) performed with Contour Transtar device in the treatment for ODS. A re‐evaluation of 113 patients subjected to STARR from June 2007 to January 2010 was conducted.

Methods

All the patients treated for symptomatic ODS with STARR with Contour Transtar were included in the study. We re‐evaluate all patients treated in the study period with clinical examination and specific questionnaire to verify the stability of the functional results and the satisfaction at 5 years from surgery. Constipation was graded using the Agachan–Wexner constipation score; eventual use of aids to defecate and patient satisfaction were assessed preoperatively, 6 months and 5 years after surgery. Long‐term complications were also investigated.

Results

Constipation intensity decreased from the preoperative value of 15.8 (±4.9) to 5.2 (±3.9) (p < 0.0001) at 6 months and remained stable after 5 years (7.4 ± 4.1; p < 0.01). Patients who use laxatives and enema decrease from 74 (77%) and 27 (28%) to only 16 (17%; p < 0.001) and 5 (5%; p < 0.001), respectively, at 5‐year follow‐up. None continue to help themselves with digitations after surgery. Also the satisfaction rate remained stable (3.64 vs 3.81) during the 5 years of the study.

Conclusion

The long‐term results have demonstrated the efficacy of the STARR with Contour Transtar in treating ODS and the stability over time of the defecatory improvements.

Clinical trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02971332.
New eco-friendly low-cost binders for Li-ion anodes
Authors: Versaci D. , Nasi R. , Zubair U. , Amici J. , Sgroi M. , Dumitrescu M. A. , Francia C. , Bodoardo S. , Penazzi N.
Published: June 2017

In the production of commercial Li-ion batteries, the active materials slurries are generally prepared using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) as binder because of its good adhesion properties and electrochemical stability. Unfortunately, there are some disadvantages related to the use of PVdF: the most important is the use of toxic and environmentally unfriendly solvents, such as N-methyl-pyrrolidone (NMP), and the second is the high costs. In the light of these considerations, it seemed straightforward to investigate the suitability of some water-soluble, inexpensive, and eco-friendly materials to test as alternative binders (sodium alginate, chitosan tragacanth gum, gelatin). The rheological properties of these materials have been investigated in addition to the electrochemical characterization. Furthermore, graphite electrodes with PVdF, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) binders have been considered for sake of comparison. We found that some of these water-soluble binders, besides good electrochemical performances, showed a high adhesion to the current collector and a good electrochemical stability under the experimental conditions employed, which makes them interesting for the next generation of Li-ion batteries.
Racialized space and discourse in the picture books of Ezra Jack Keats
Authors: Falkner Anna
Published: June 2017

Scholars have argued elementary social studies is uniquely suited to build a foundation of critical knowledge of race and racism with young children (e.g. Bolgatz, 2005, 2007; Wills, 2005 ). To build this foundation, we must more deeply examine the materials, such as picture books, that are used in early classrooms. This research is a qualitative content analysis of one set of picture books: the neighborhood books of Caldecott award winner Ezra Jack Keats. Drawing on Goldberg's (1993) theory of racialized discourse and Neely and Sumatra's (2011) theory on racialized space, this research analyzes the racialized fictional space of Keats's neighborhood, and contextualizes the texts within broader socio-historical racial discourse. The author argues Keats's texts racialize neighborhood space through the characters’ relationships with each other, their interaction with the space, and the physical depiction of the setting. This research contributes to a growing movement toward addressing race and racism in elementary social studies by demonstrating how scholars, teachers, and students may interrogate picture books as transmitters of racial knowledge and history.
Linear stability of confined flow around a 180-degree sharp bend
Authors: Sapardi Azan M. , Hussam Wisam K. , Pothérat Alban , Sheard Gregory J.
Published: June 2017

This study seeks to characterise the breakdown of the steady two-dimensional solution in the flow around a 180-degree sharp bend to infinitesimal three-dimensional disturbances using a linear stability analysis. The stability analysis predicts that three-dimensional transition is via a synchronous instability of the steady flows. A highly accurate global linear stability analysis of the flow was conducted with Reynolds number $\mathit{Re}<1150$ and bend opening ratio (ratio of bend width to inlet height) $0.2\leqslant \unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\leqslant 5$. This range of $\mathit{Re}$ and $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}$ captures both steady-state two-dimensional flow solutions and the inception of unsteady two-dimensional flow. For $0.2\leqslant \unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\leqslant 1$, the two-dimensional base flow transitions from steady to unsteady at higher Reynolds number as $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}$ increases. The stability analysis shows that at the onset of instability, the base flow becomes three-dimensionally unstable in two different modes, namely a spanwise oscillating mode for $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}=0.2$ and a spanwise synchronous mode for $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\geqslant 0.3$. The critical Reynolds number and the spanwise wavelength of perturbations increase as $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}$ increases. For $1<\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\leqslant 2$ both the critical Reynolds number for onset of unsteadiness and the spanwise wavelength decrease as $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}$ increases. Finally, for $2<\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}\leqslant 5$, the critical Reynolds number and spanwise wavelength remain almost constant. The linear stability analysis also shows that the base flow becomes unstable to different three-dimensional modes depending on the opening ratio. The modes are found to be localised near the reattachment point of the first recirculation bubble.
Modern Freshwater Reservoir Offsets in the Eurasian Steppe: Implications for Archaeology
Authors: Svyatko Svetlana V , Reimer Paula J , Schulting Rick
Published: June 2017

This paper presents the results of the first broad-scale study of modern freshwater reservoir effects (FREs) in various regions of the Eurasian Steppe, associated with archaeological sites. The aim of this work was not only to demonstrate the widespread variability of modern FREs in the region, but also to draw the attention of specialists working in the area to the necessity of taking into account this important and still not fully understood factor involving radiocarbon dating of human and some faunal remains from archaeological sites. To identify modern FREs, modern fish of different species from 10 regions of Siberia and Kazakhstan have been subjected to accelerator mass spectrometry radiocarbon (AMS 14C) dating and stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis, and the results are compared with the existing data from previous research. Freshwater reservoir offsets have been detected in all analyzed regions, with the exception of Kharga Lake (Buryatia, Russia) and Kyzylkoi River (central Kazakhstan), varying not only between, but also within regions depending on fish species. The most significant offset in this study has been recorded for the Chuya River basin (Altai Mountains, 1097±40 14C yr), though not as high as observed in previous research for the Caspian lowlands (1477±52 and 1037±52 14C yr) and Upper Lena River basin (Lake Baikal area, 1981±30 14C yr). Both δ13C and δ15N values have been measured with the majority of samples reflecting C3 ecology of local reservoirs and δ15N depending on the diet of particular species, with predatory species such as pike, perch, and burbot demonstrating the highest δ15N. No general relationship has been observed between freshwater reservoir offsets and either δ13C or δ15N values of the samples.
LIE -HIGHER DERIVATIONS AND LIE -HIGHER DERIVABLE MAPPINGS
Authors: DING YANA , LI JIANKUI
Published: June 2017

Let ${\mathcal{A}}$ be a unital torsion-free algebra over a unital commutative ring ${\mathcal{R}}$. To characterise Lie $n$-higher derivations on ${\mathcal{A}}$, we give an identity which enables us to transfer problems related to Lie $n$-higher derivations into the same problems concerning Lie $n$-derivations. We prove that: (1) if every Lie $n$-derivation on ${\mathcal{A}}$ is standard, then so is every Lie $n$-higher derivation on ${\mathcal{A}}$; (2) if every linear mapping Lie $n$-derivable at several points is a Lie $n$-derivation, then so is every sequence $\{d_{m}\}$ of linear mappings Lie $n$-higher derivable at these points; (3) if every linear mapping Lie $n$-derivable at several points is a sum of a derivation and a linear mapping vanishing on all $(n-1)$th commutators of these points, then every sequence $\{d_{m}\}$ of linear mappings Lie $n$-higher derivable at these points is a sum of a higher derivation and a sequence of linear mappings vanishing on all $(n-1)$th commutators of these points. We also give several applications of these results.
IMAGES OF HIGHER-ORDER DIFFERENTIAL OPERATORS OF POLYNOMIAL ALGEBRAS
Authors: LIU DAYAN , SUN XIAOSONG
Published: June 2017

We investigate images of higher-order differential operators of polynomial algebras over a field $k$. We show that, when $\operatorname{char}k>0$, the image of the set of differential operators $\{\unicode[STIX]{x1D709}_{i}-\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}_{i}\mid i=1,2,\ldots ,n\}$ of the polynomial algebra $k[\unicode[STIX]{x1D709}_{1},\ldots ,\unicode[STIX]{x1D709}_{n},z_{1},\ldots ,z_{n}]$ is a Mathieu subspace, where $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}_{i}\in k[\unicode[STIX]{x2202}_{z_{1}},\ldots ,\unicode[STIX]{x2202}_{z_{n}}]$ for $i=1,2,\ldots ,n$. We also show that, when $\operatorname{char}k=0$, the same conclusion holds for $n=1$. The problem concerning images of differential operators arose from the study of the Jacobian conjecture.
Nutrient profiling for regulatory purposes
Authors: Rayner Mike
Published: June 2017

In this paper, I first provide definitions of nutrient profiling and of a nutrient profile model. I set out the purposes of nutrient profiling: both general and specific. I give two examples of nutrient profile models that have been developed for regulatory purposes by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK and the WHO for its European Region – the UK FSA/Ofcom and the WHO-Euro models – and compare the way the models are constructed and function, how they have been developed, the extent to which they have been tested and validated and their use in regulation. Finally I draw some conclusions about the future use of nutrient profiling for regulatory purposes. I argue that its full potential has yet to be realised and give some reasons why. I pose some urgent research questions with respect to nutrient profiling.
Uses of nutrient profiling to address public health needs: from regulation to reformulation
Authors: Drewnowski Adam
Published: June 2017

Nutrient profiling (NP) models rate the nutritional quality of individual foods, based on their nutrient composition. Their goal is to identify nutrient-rich foods, generally defined as those that contain more nutrients than calories and are low in fat, sugar and salt. NP models have provided the scientific basis for evaluating nutrition and health claims and regulating marketing and advertising to children. The food industry has used NP methods to reformulate product portfolios. To help define what we mean by healthy foods, NP models need to be based on published nutrition standards, mandated serving sizes and open-source nutrient composition databases. Specifically, the development and testing of NP models for public health should follow the seven decision steps outlined by the European Food Safety Authority. Consistent with this scheme, the nutrient-rich food (NRF) family of indices was based on a variable number of qualifying nutrients (from six to fifteen) and on three disqualifying nutrients (saturated fat, added sugar, sodium). The selection of nutrients and daily reference amounts followed nutrient standards for the USA. The base of calculation was 418·4 kJ (100 kcal), in preference to 100 g, or serving sizes. The NRF algorithms, based on unweighted sums of percent daily values, subtracted negative (LIM) from positive (NRn) subscores (NRn – LIM). NRF model performance was tested with respect to energy density and independent measures of a healthy diet. Whereas past uses of NP modelling have been regulatory or educational, voluntary product reformulation by the food industry may have most impact on public health.
Evaluation of the impact of 2 years of a dosing intervention on canine echinococcosis in the Alay Valley, Kyrgyzstan
Authors: VAN KESTEREN F. , MASTIN A. , TORGERSON P. R. , MYTYNOVA BERMET , CRAIG P. S.
Published: June 2017

Echinococcosis is a re-emerging zoonotic disease in Kyrgyzstan. In 2012, an echinococcosis control scheme was started that included dosing owned dogs in the Alay Valley, Kyrgyzstan with praziquantel. Control programmes require large investments of money and resources; as such it is important to evaluate how well these are meeting their targets. However, problems associated with echinococcosis control schemes include remoteness and semi-nomadic customs of affected communities, and lack of resources. These same problems apply to control scheme evaluations, and quick and easy assessment tools are highly desirable. Lot quality assurance sampling was used to assess the impact of approximately 2 years of echinococcosis control in the Alay valley. A pre-intervention coproELISA prevalence was established, and a 75% threshold for dosing compliance was set based on previous studies. Ten communities were visited in 2013 and 2014, with 18–21 dogs sampled per community, and questionnaires administered to dog owners. After 21 months of control efforts, 8/10 communities showed evidence of reaching the 75% praziquantel dosing target, although only 3/10 showed evidence of a reduction in coproELISA prevalence. This is understandable, since years of sustained control are required to effectively control echinococcosis, and efforts in the Alay valley should be and are being continued.