bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Study of Boar Sperm Coming From the Caput, Corpus, and Cauda Regions of the Epididymis
Authors: BRIZ MARIA D. , BONET SERGI , PINART BETH , EGOZCUE JOSEP , CAMPS ROSA
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT: Sperm quality in the caput, corpus, and cauda regions of the epididymis of healthy and sexually mature Landrace boars was studied. Epididymal sperm characteristics were examined by light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Sperm vitality decreased very slightly although progressively with the transport of sperm through the epididymis. Osmotic resistance of acrosomes was very low in the sperm from the caput and ∼100% in the corpus and cauda. The incidence of spermatozoa with the head detached from the tail remained stable in the first two regions of the epididymis, increasing notably in the cauda. Sperm agglutination increased progressively as sperm progressed along the epididymal duct. The percent of mature spermatozoa and aberrant spermatozoa increased from the caput to the cauda, whereas the percent of immature spermatozoa decreased. In the caput and corpus the percent of immature spermatozoa was similar, although in the caput they were characterized by the presence of a proximal cytoplasmic droplet; in the corpus the cytoplasmic droplet was distal. The acrosomal protuberance was highly developed in spermatozoa from the epididymal caput, but its volume was considerably reduced in those from the epididymal cauda. The electron density of the acrosomal content was lower in spermatozoa from the caput than in those from the epididymal cauda. The mitochondrial sheath of spermatozoa from the caput was made of voluminous mitochondria of unequal size, with a low electron‐dense matrix. In the cauda region, the mitochondria were smaller in diameter, homogeneous in size, and with greater matrix electron density. This last fact is related to the loss of the capacity of spermatozoa to fold their tail by the midpiece as they progress along the epididymal duct. The complex epididymal maturation process of the sperm results in quantitative and qualitative changes that can be characterized in each of the three epididymal regions. The presence in the ejaculate of one or more gamete forms belonging to the epididymal caput, corpus, or cauda will allow workers to better establish the intensity of stress produced by a high frequency of semen collection.
Round Spermatids From Prepubertal Mouse Testis Can Develop Into Normal Offspring
Authors: SASAGAWA ISOJI , TATENO TADASHI , ADACHI YUICHI , KUBOTA YOKO , NAKADA TERUHIRO
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT:We investigated fertilization and embryo development after intracytoplasmic injection of round spermatids collected from mice before puberty. The rates of normal fertilization, blastocyst formation, and development into live offspring were examined. The injection of oocytes with round spermatids from mature or prepubertal males resulted in similar rates of normal fertilization and embryo development. The rates of the development to term of two‐cell embryos were also similar, regardless of the origin of the round spermatids injected. This finding suggests that round spermatids from the prepubertal testis already have the ability to fertilize normally and to allow normal embryo development.
Use of Hoechst 33342 Stain to Evaluate Live Fresh and Frozen Bull Sperm by Computer‐Assisted Analysis
Authors: TARDIF ANGELA L. , FARRELL PAUL B. , TROUERN‐TREND VICTORIA , SIMKIN MICHAEL E. , FOOTE ROBERT H.
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT: The objective of this research was to investigate possible procedures for evaluating living bull sperm stained with Hoechst 33342 while in a simple medium and in commonly used complex egg yolk—glycerol‐Tris (EYGT) and whole milk—glycerol (WMG) extenders. The two semen extenders provide good cryoprotection, but the latter one virtually obscures the sperm. To evaluate sperm motion characteristics when static nonsperm particles are present, a new Hamilton Thrne epifluorescent optical system (UV) with a strobe light was developed for potential use with DNA‐stained sperm. This system permitted examination for the first time of sperm motion characteristics in milk. In Experiment 1 (four bull semen replicates with five dye concentrations and three incubation times), 2.5 μg/ml of Hoechst 33342 stained live and dead sperm sufficiently in a modified Tyrode's solution to measure all sperm characteristics without depressing motility, which was validated by using phasecontrast to analyze stained and unstained controls. In Experiments 2a and 2b, each using semen from four bulls with a 5 × 5 factorial arrangement, it was determined that 40 to 60 μ/ml of dye in EYGT or WMG, with UV illumination for 20 minutes, was optimal. There was no detrimental effect on sperm motility. In Experiment 3, analyses of two ejaculates, from each of eight bulls, confirmed that motion characteristics of sperm in EYGT and WMG were not depressed when the sperm were stained with Hoechst 33342. These experiments demonstrate that the dye concentrations and exposure times developed for use with the new epifluorescent optics facilitate evaluating bull sperm frozen in particle‐filled whole milk and should be useful for sperm evaluation of a variety of species when nonsperm particulate matter may otherwise interfere.
State of the Practice–Automation and Tools: Report from NCOSE Tools Working Group
Authors: Holtzman Julian
Published: September 2023

This paper will present the goals, objectives, and near‐term working plan for the Tools Working Group, a subcommittee of the NCOSE Practices Group. Since the Working Group has only been reactivated in the last nine months, this paper will not be able to include the major results; the most productive period has been that since the January meeting in Melbourne, Florida. A separate paper will be available to NCOSE 1993 meeting attendees at the end of the plenary session.
OBJECT ORIENTED ANALYSIS: AN INTRODUCTIONAND COMPARISONTO TRADITIONAL SYSTEMS ENGINEERING ANALYSIS METHODS
Authors: Wirth John M. , Joseph Daniel S.
Published: September 2023

Object oriented analysis (OOA) is an analysis method that “examines requirements from the perspective of the classes and objects found in the … problem domain” (Korncoff, 1993). OOA allows systems engineers to analyze increasingly complex problem domains. Its methodology improves the communication between the system analyst, the problem domain experts, the managers, and the customers. Analysis results are more internally consistent through OOA methods, and commonalty of objects and functions are explicitly represented through the use of inheritance. Requirements specifications can be built that are more resilient to change, and analysis methods and results are structured for reuse. Finally, when products of the systems analysis and design processes includes software written in Ada (or another object oriented language), OOA provides a consistent underlying representation that minimizes the transition/translation problems often encountered between software and systems engineering efforts.

This paper provides an introduction to OOA methods and its utility for systems engineering. A comparison between OOA and more traditional functions‐requirements‐allocations (FRA) analysis methods is discussed. A simple case study is presented to contrast traditional FRA and OOA methods.
EXPERIENCE WITH THE APPLICATION OF SYSTEMS ENGINEERING TOOLS
Authors: Cox John E.
Published: September 2023

Systems engineering is one of the last engineering disciplines to be automated. Now that system design automation (SDA) tools are finally becoming available, they are expected to be a “silver bullet” that offer a miraculous solution to the complex process of building large systems. However, experience. has shown that the addition of computer‐based tools to the systems engineering activity in fact adds an additional layer of concern to an already complex situation. Getting measurable benefits from the application of automated systems engineering tools has proven to require close management attention due to many factors.

This paper addresses the above and other issues, citing lessons learned in the deployment of RDD‐100(r) System Designer on several large programs and discussing the strategies that may be employed to maximize success in automating systems engineering processes.
SYSTEMS ENGINEERING: PROCESS VERSUS MANAGEMENT
Authors: Bell James D. , Grellmann Hans W.
Published: September 2023

This paper presents practical considerations in applying systems engineering in the development of complex systems that have natural conflicts with management processes. Many efforts focus on the elements, program phases and tools of systems engineering, but generally do not address practical steps for applying systems engineering, while integrating the “human element” into the process. This paper addresses: a) the current environment, b) the distinction between systems engineering processes and elements of management, c) profiles of a good systems engineering manager vs. a good systems engineer, and d) the relationship of processes to organizational structure. The paper concludes with some thoughts on a management philosophy that supports systems engineering.
INTEGRATED MASTER PLAN / INTEGRATED MASTER SCHEDULE
Authors: Lagaly Donald J.
Published: September 2023

The Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) Request For Proposals called for several dramatic changes in the acquisition process along the guidelines proposed by the Packard Commission. The ATF EMD Program was to truly be an event‐based program, as opposed to being driven predominantly by a schedule produced before the proposals were submitted. How can a major aircraft EMD program be managed apart from a schedule? Of course, it cannot. For the F‐22 EMD Program, an Integrated Master Plan (IMP) was developed, defining all essential tasks in a hierarchial and Integrated Product Team format. The IMP describes the Events, Significant Accomplishments, and Accomplishment Criteria to be completed to the satisfaction of the SPO/Contractor team throughout the nine year EMD Program. The IMP indicates which Work Breakdown Structure element is primarily tasked with each Accomplishment Criteria, the multiple Accomplishment Criteria under a specific Significant Accomplishment, and the multiple Significant Accomplishments necessary to successfully demonstrate satisfactory Event closure. The IMP is a contractual document, without calendar dates. An associated Integrated Master Schedule expands the contractual IMP by adding an expected schedule to every Event, Significant Accomplishment, and Accomplishment Criteria. The IMS also adds sub‐criteria Tasks to some Accomplishment Criteria. In the early stages of the EMD Program, the IMP has already demonstrated its value by instilling a discipline to the concurrent engineering nature of the F‐22 Program that might otherwise have been very difficult to achieve.
Behavior Based System Test Planning
Authors: Alford Mack
Published: September 2023

This paper presents a systematic approach for identifying and scheduling integration tests derived from the RDD model of system behavior and its allocation to components. Some test metrics are identified and related to existing software metrics.
A SYSTEMS ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT APPROACH FOR COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISES
Authors: Stone Arthur G.
Published: September 2023

In the commercial market sector, (non‐DoD) systems engineering is usually not required by customers. The decision to use it has to be based on what's good for business. However, very little information is available on how to develop a strategy for employing systems engineering in the commercial market sector. This paper proposes a strategy based on a hierarchy of systems engineering processes, with the systems approach at the top of the hierarchy. The systems approach identifies; (1) the basic systems engineering activities and their purpose, (2) a standard system life cycle model that integrates the basic systems engineering activities over time, and (3) guidelines on tailoring the systems approach into a systems engineering process that will work for any industry and product unique considerations.
Life Cycle and Production Unit Cost Analysis Techniques for System Configuration Selection in the Norwegian Offshore Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Plummer David F.
Published: September 2023

The constituent elements, hierarchical relationship, and design, construction, commissioning, startup, production and decommissioning life cycle of oil and gas production systems (e.g., offshore drilling/production platforms, onshore petroleum processing facility, offshore gas production platforms) in the Norwegian offshore petroleum/gas industry are described.

Economic and financial considerations (currency conversion, escalation/inflation rates, rate of return) which affect life‐cycle and production unit cost analyses are summarized. Risk and uncertainty in the analyses are discussed.

The structure and estimation of life cycle costs for complex petroleum/gas production facilities is discussed. A model is presented for calculating unit costs for production‐facility output, e.g., $/bbl, $/sm3; definitions of terms are given in an appendix. The use of life‐cycle and production unit cost estimates to select a preferred system configuration is discussed.

A numerical example is provided to illustrate the production unit cost estimation procedure. Cost information for the example is based on an actual Norwegian offshore oil/gas production system.
SYSTEMS ENGINEERING THE FAULT ANALYSIS PROCESS FOR COMMERCIAL AVIONICS APPLICATION
Authors: Spangler C. Steven
Published: September 2023

This paper provides an overview of a fault analysis methodology and process that integrates Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) with Built‐in Test Equipment (BITE) Coverage Analysis. This integrated process has been given the title FMEA/BITE Analysis. The Systems Engineering methods and tools used to develop this integrated process are discussed and applied to the problem statement. Decomposition of requirements for industry standards and the new Boeing Commercial Airplane Group (BCAG) 777 Cabin Management System were used to identify what the analysis process must do and what the analysis results must contain. A trade study was performed to select the process architecture based on the multiple objectives of both the FMEA and the BITE Coverage analyses. An overview of the FMEA/BITE Analysis process is provided that specifies the analysis tasks, data items, and product deliverables. Finally, concepts are identified in which computer assistance can be applied to achieve a high‐quality, measurable fault analysis.
EXPERIENCES IN TRAINING SOFTWARE ENGINEERS TO PERFORM SYSTEMS ENGINEERING
Authors: Harbaugh Sam
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the experiences in designing and delivering a systems engineering course for a project team consisting of software engineers who have, for the first time, total systems responsibility for a new computer system. The training objectives support the training mission which is to help assure project success.

The training scope includes the systems engineering process, its management and its products beginning with needs analysis and continuing through system requirements specification, system design and producing software requirements and a software development plan.

The course described here includes analysis of various aspects of computer systems; workload, functionality, man‐machine interface, security, and the “ilities” (reliability, maintainability, etc.). The course covers system design techniques and process models. The course covers how the results of analysis and design are qualified and how they are used in the construction of Government documents.
REQUIREMENTS: A PRACTICAL, TESTED APPROACH FOR BREAK‐THROUGH SYSTEMS
Authors: Frantz W. Forrest
Published: September 2023

Requirements are often described in free‐flowing text, interspersed throughout a document, difficult to locate, qualitative versus quantitative, incomplete, and hence, not a means to base final customer acceptance. But, when requirements are uniquely specified and quantified via standard requirement attributes, requirements can be analyzed and clearly communicated. This allows a process to occur between the customer and project team that concisely defines the requirements and acceptance criteria of the system. The approach sets the basis for systems development ‐ from architectonics through customer acceptance.

Prior to implementing a practical approach to requirements definition and analysis, project teams found the requirements process too difficult to implement and did without. Customer ownership was weak. Few breakthrough projects succeeded. As a result, several approaches to requirements definition and analysis were tested.

This paper presents a synthesis of the best of these approaches. Projects now move into final phases with well‐defined acceptance criteria and customer ownership. Presented in this paper are guidelines and standards used to develop requirements, requirement attributes, the Ten Commandments of requirements, the process of developing requirements, formats, acceptance criteria, and how requirements feed other project disciplines.
7.1.4 Identifying and Modeling Safety Hazards
Authors: Daniels Jesse , Bahill A. Terry , Werner Paul W.
Published: September 2023

The Hazard Model described in this paper is a risk management tool that is intended to aid in tracking and evaluating risks. The model is a new application of old systems engineering tools, i.e., tradeoff studies. However, the model is not intended to be directly integrated into the SE process. Rather, it should be implemented as an ongoing evaluator of key attributes as required by the system under study. The Hazard Model is designed to accept data from distributed databases, evaluate the data, and provide as output a numerical representation of the system's state, called the Hazard Index. The Hazard Index may be interpreted as a traveler's advisory. A Hazard Object template is used to ensure that all necessary descriptors for each condition that may potentially contribute to hazardous circumstances are collected in a standardized format. Three methods for combining hazard data are presented and compared. These three methods serve as the “engine” for our Hazard Model. Interactions among hazard stimuli are also investigated. Three methods are presented for handling three different types of interactions between the Hazard Objects.
8.1.4 Military and civil logistic support of humanitarian relief operations
Authors: Ludema M. W. , Roos H.B.
Published: September 2023

As a result of a higher frequency of crisis situations, and due to the fact that societies become more and more vulnerable, the expenditures for humanitarian relief operations are growing. The currently available knowledge concerning humanitarian relief operations and relief logistics can be used more effective. Much knowledge is available in the humanitarian relief society and in military organizations involved in relief operations in crisis situations. The current base of knowledge is not interrelated or evaluated enough in respect to relief system effectiveness. If knowledge concerning humanitarian relief operations would be reengineered following a systems engineering, system logistics, and a more coordinative approach, humanitarian relief operations might be more effective for the same or even less money. One solutions that could benefit from integrated civil and military relief logistics knowledge and coordination of civil and military relief operations is the establishment of several relief‐hubs for one the Netherlands might prove a good location.
2.3.2 Implementing Systems Engineering
Authors: Armstrong James R.
Published: September 2023

The task of implementing systems engineering is always a challenge. Many times, the task is given to a technical expert with little training in people skills. Further, even the social scientists struggle with getting people to change. Much has been written about change management. However, recent research in this area has developed a process for change that provides more structure to this activity and has application to systems engineering. This paper provides a translation from the social environment to the technical.
4.3.3 Exploring Concepts during Pre‐System Definition
Authors: Schoening William W.
Published: September 2023

Despite the fact that Pre‐System Definition (PSD) is a precursor to the later life‐cycle phases, organizations continue to perform this phase poorly. PSD projects (also called Concept Exploration or Feasibility Studies) can be characterized as being of relatively short duration with rapid transitions in focus. Since PSD is before design, the issues and approaches are different from the later design phases. This paper describes many of the causes for poor PSD execution and discusses techniques for helping a poorly executing PSD project recover. Brief diagnostic questions are posed to help readers implement the approaches proposed in this paper.
4.3.4 Role of Design, Design Validation, and Verification Activities in Development of Software Systems
Authors: Kaslow David , Martin Lockheed
Published: September 2023

Often on a large program, the management structure focuses on the management of the work and monitors the development and approval of the program baseline but does not provide the day‐to‐day design direction. At best, program management has knowledge of the high‐level portion of the baseline. Integrated Process and Product Teams (IPPTs) are one mechanism for providing day‐to‐day direction. This paper recommends establishing Design, Design Validation, and Verification Activities for the day‐to‐day coodination of the design. These Activities can be used very effectively in the traditional management structure or as an integrating force among IPPTs.
6.3.1 Properties of a High Quality Informal Requirements Document
Authors: Schneider Richard E. , Buede Dennis M.
Published: September 2023

One way to improve the quality of a system level informal requirements document is to check it for goodness properties and fix any checking errors. Several lists of goodness properties are available but they differ by author. And a sound basis for selecting goodness properties is seldom provided. We propose a set of goodness properties which were developed from a larger list of properties using selection criteria as this sound basis.

In previous work we established a set of criteria for selecting which properties represent high quality in an informal requirements document. This paper extends that work by applying the selection criteria to a large set of candidate properties. Through a process of refining, combining, splitting, and discarding of candidate properties using the selection criteria, we arrived at the limited set of high quality properties. This paper describes that process.
6.3.2 End User Involvement in Establishing Software Requirements for Aerospace Software Systems
Authors: Ippolito Brian , Murman Earll
Published: September 2023

Requirement practitioners often cite end user involvement as an important element of an effective requirement derivation process. The research reported in this paper provides quantitative data of end user involvement in the software requirement derivation process. The paper includes information on the identity of the end user versus the customer, end user involvement, frequency of end user and customer changes, value added by the end user, enablers, and end user satisfaction. The findings presented were part of a larger two‐year research effort involving over one hundred and seventy requirement practitioners from the Aerospace industry, United States Air Force, and MIT. The goal of the research effort was to identify effective practices for deriving software requirements.
1.4.4 Rapid Architecting Based on Systems Engineering Principles
Authors: Harzenetter Florian , Thomé Bernhard , Igenbergs Eduard
Published: September 2023

This paper provides an approach to Rapid Architecting based on systems engineering principles. After an introduction to the problem area, the notion of “Rapid Architecting” is explained: First a description of a generic process model for Rapid Architecting is proposed. This description is not tied to any specific method for architecting. Then we describe a method that implements this generic process model as well as the models needed for carrying out the process. While explaining the process and the models, we outline the underlying systems engineering principles that have been the basis for the definition of the process and the method.
3.4.3 Architecture Based Design Applied to a Remote Sensing Satellite Planner
Authors: Kaslow David
Published: September 2023

The Architcture Based Design (ABD) process provides a mechanism and a series of repositories for evolving and documenting an architecture and design. It was first introduced at the INCOSE 1998 Symposium and is beginning to be applied to a variety of architecture and design efforts. The application of ABD to the initial architecture and design of a Planner for a remote sensing system provides insight as how to introduce and implement ABD and the ABD tool set on a project.
2.5.4 Using an Integrated Capability Maturity Model® – The FAA Experience
Authors: Ibrahim Linda
Published: September 2023

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) developed an integrated Capability Maturity Model (CMM), known as the FAA‐iCMM®, that integrates the Systems Engineering CMM, the Software Acquisition CMM and the CMM for Software. The FAA‐iCMM was released in 1997 and is the first major integrated CMM in existence. Since 1997, it has been successfully guiding the systematic improvement of FAA‐wide processes used to manage, acquire, and engineer systems, products, and services.

This paper describes FAA's pioneering experience pursuing integrated process improvement using the FAA‐iCMM. Lessons learned are presented regarding model representation, goal setting, the improvement infrastructure, training, transitioning, and appraisal. Plans to evolve the model and relationships with the government‐industry‐SEI CMM Integration (CMMI) effort are also discussed.

The paper will be of interest to any organization that seeks enterprise‐wide process improvement and that might consider using an integrated capability maturity model to guide that effort.
7.5.2 What the Lessons Learned from Large, Complex, Technical Projects Tell Us about the Art of Systems Engineering
Authors: Cook Stephen C
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the literature to identify the lessons that have been learned from a selection of the thousands of projects that have been conducted over the last 15 years or so. The first purpose of this review is to establish a value‐for‐money argument for the application of systems engineering. The review is also intended to provide guidance on the application and development of systems engineering methodologies. To provide a context, the paper opens with a definition of systems engineering, a description of key concepts and a brief discussion on supplementary methodologies. This is followed by a discussion of the lessons learned by NASA, the UK Ministry of Defence, and the UK and USA software development industries. The paper closes with discussion that concludes that systems engineering is a cost‐effective way of ameliorating schedule, performance and user‐acceptance risk for large, complex, technical development projects. It also concludes that the lessons learned indicate the need for more than good processes; there is a growing need to understand and manage the socio‐political issues associated with creating and successfully fielding a complex, technical system.
7.5.3 An Application of the CEaVa Method
Authors: Larsen Bob , Buede Dennis
Published: September 2023

In the complex world of developing requirements and eliciting user needs, engineers build billions of dollars of products that are wrong on delivery, because they solved the wrong problem. The problem statement does change, because the environment (i.e., schedule, technology, people, or politics) changes. The Continuous Early Validation (CEaVa) refinement method will stabilize the problem statement (i.e., critical requirements or KPPs), which will enhance the probability of building the right product. We will highlight the a $200 M cost savings from a multi‐billion dollar Army Information Technology system case study that utilized the CEaVa method.
7.5.4 International Space Station Integrated Verification Process
Authors: Haskins Bill R.
Published: September 2023

The International Space Station (ISS) verification challenge was developing a process that ensured the verification of lots of requirements for a very complex system. The ISS integrated verification process was developed to provide a disciplined engineering approach for the verification of the ISS specification requirements and to provide a traceable archive of verification data needed to sustain ISS operations. The ISS integrated verification process has proven itself to be a tried and true structured process that can be adapted to any type of simple or complex system.
2.6.4 Creativity and Innovation in the Systems Engineering Process
Authors: Cropley David H , Cropley Arthur J
Published: September 2023

The systems engineering process, applied across a typical system life‐cycle model, features design, or synthesis, as a core element. Creativity and innovation are required, to varying degrees, in all successful synthesis activities in systems engineering. The process of creativity and innovation in systems engineering is, however, poorly understood and is not adequately fostered. Educational institutions also place little emphasis on creativity and innovation in undergraduate teaching. This deficiency results in an engineering culture that is frequently resistant to the factors which promote creativity and innovation. This paper presents a phase‐model of creativity which maps onto the process of synthesis in the systems engineering life‐cycle. The paper serves as a framework for fostering creativity and innovation in systems engineers, at all levels, as well as for embedding a creativity culture in the systems engineering process.
5.6.1 AP‐233 Architecture
Authors: Herzog Erik , Törne Anders
Published: September 2023

This paper outlines the information model architecture of the current working draft, WD4, of ISO 10303 ‐ 233 (AP‐233) standard proposal. The objective is to communicate how the architecture of the information model permits the exchange of systems specifications between computer based systems engineering tools. The model architecture makes no assumptions on the complexity of the information exchanged and does not require specific tool capabilities. The paper also illustrates how supplemental information, in particular configuration management and process information, is handled in the information model. We believe that capturing and maintaining this information is crucial for industrial applications and hence for industrial adoption of AP‐233 by the systems engineering community.
5.6.3 Integrating Systems and Software Engineering Concepts in AP‐233
Authors: Pandikow Asmus , Herzog Erik , Törne Anders
Published: September 2023

This paper presents ongoing work to extend the ISO 10303‐233 (AP‐233) systems engineering information model in order to integrate software‐engineering concepts. The work is motivated by the increasing importance of software in contemporary systems and the gap between systems and software engineering's specification methods. Encoding entities supporting modern software engineering attains two objectives. Firstly, the model could be used for exchanging software specifications in addition to system specifications. Secondly, relationships between entities representing software and system concepts can be encoded which allows for traceability between requirements expressed in a systems specification and the software design specification.
Friendship attachment style, intolerance of uncertainty, and psychological distress among unaccompanied immigrant minors in times of COVID‐19
Authors: Ceccon Chiara , Moscardino Ughetta
Published: September 2023

Introduction

This cross‐sectional study used a convergent parallel mixed‐method design to investigate friendship attachment style, intolerance of uncertainty, and psychological distress among unaccompanied immigrant minors (UIMs) during the second wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Italy.

Method

Participants were 80 male UIMs (Mage = 17 years, standard deviation = 0.84) hosted in residential care communities. Individual interviews comprising questionnaires and open‐ended questions assessed the constructs of interest. Qualitative data were analyzed through thematic content analysis, whereas descriptive statistics and regression analysis were computed on quantitative data.

Results

Several UIMs mentioned positive relationships with peers, but more than half also felt reluctant to trust others and build new friendships due to events experienced before and during migration. However, in quantitative data, 69% identified themselves with the secure friendship attachment style. Regarding intolerance of uncertainty, participants expressed feelings of worry about the pandemic, but also emphasized their resources in terms of confidence, optimism, and planning skills, as well as being accustomed to uncertainty; indeed, levels of this variable were low‐to‐medium. In regression analysis, insecure attachment and higher intolerance of uncertainty were each associated with greater psychological distress. Moreover, psychological distress was lower among securely attached UIMs with low (vs. high) levels of intolerance of uncertainty.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that, even in conditions of societal insecurity, UIMs display resilience and employ effective coping strategies; however, a lack of trust in peer relationships and the inability to tolerate uncertainty may undermine their psychological adjustment. Implications for developmental theory and practice are discussed.
Size correction and deep image optimization in optical coherence tomography angiography with structural image‐assisted common parts extraction method
Authors: Zhang Wenxin , Zhou Hong , Tao Yuxiu , Zhu Fu , He Bin , Liu Ning , Chen Junyi , Xue Ping
Published: September 2023

Tail artifact elimination is essential in optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) for the artifacts will prevent the reconstruction of the 3D vessel image. The tail artifacts of superficial vessels obscure the deep vascular signals and cause the signals at different depths to mix with each other. Most tail artifact elimination methods can shorten the tails but have difficulty in determining the lower boundary of the vessels. In this letter, we introduce a technique to extract vascular signals with more accurate vascular boundaries. With the help of structural image, our method can reconstruct the 3D image of the vascular network more precisely and perform better in deep areas. The images of vessels of palm are used to compare our new technique with previous common parts extraction method experimentally. The results show that our method removes the tail artifacts more thoroughly and has a significant advantage in imaging deep vessels.
Health professions learners’ evaluation of e‐learning scenario‐based case study design: Reinvigorating flipped classroom modalities
Authors: Farokhi Moshtagh R. , English Dana Kiefer , Boone Stephanie L , Amaechi Bennett T.
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Interactive scenario‐based learning (SBL) cases were developed using the SoftChalk platform to deliver content about patients’ barriers to accessing healthcare and patient management strategies connecting oral to systemic health. The interactive cases were designed to engage the digital‐savvy learners, meet them where they are by leveling up, and seek their feedback to determine flipped (FC) or modified flipped classroom (MFC) content delivery approaches.

Methods

Health professions students completed interactive SBL cases (Phase‐I) using either FC as assigning content outside of class time preparation or MFC as allocating time at the beginning of the class deliveries, and a 12‐item post‐completion survey. The senior dental student cohort (Phase‐II) completed an anonymous Qualtrics survey that assessed their confidence leading to clinical competence two years after the interactive SBL case deliveries. The final survey (Phase‐III) of first‐year dental students evaluated the improved interactive scenario‐based cases post modifications. [Corrections added on 03 October 2023: After first online publication the first sentence of methods section has been updated.]

Results

No significant differences existed between the FC and MFC content delivery scores; however, learners preferred the structured time allotted in the MFC approach as a learning style for participants (N=989). The overall means percent score was 93.2% (n = 398) for FC and 96.5% (n = 591) for MFC. Thematic analysis of written responses indicated that learners felt the vignettes were relevant, thought‐provoking, incorporated decision‐making, and provided feedback. Four themes about strengths emerged as engaging, interactive, relevant, and critical. Design and technological challenges emerged as interactive SBL improvements. A follow‐up report (74/103, 2021) revealed that 48% of senior dental students surveyed recollected the SBL cases when they delivered preventive, patient‐centered dental services as juniors and seniors. They also recalled that the interactive cases prepared them for clinical success. The Final comments (2022) did not commend any significant improvements.

Conclusion

Interactive scenario‐based approaches nurture active learning and critical thinking. The educator can engage learners by incorporating teaching modalities as SBL cases to enhance their knowledge and create educational environments by meeting learners where they are. Learners can be valuable partners as educators define their instructional strategies to be equitable and student‐centered. [Correction added on 04 October 2023: after first online publication, abstract section has been revised.]
Mpox stigma among men who have sex with men in the Netherlands: Underlying beliefs and comparisons across other commonly stigmatized infections
Authors: Zimmermann Hanne M. L. , Gültzow Thomas , Marcos Tamika A. , Wang Haoyi , Jonas Kai. J. , Stutterheim Sarah E.
Published: September 2023

People with or at risk for mpox are likely to be stigmatized because of analogies to other sexually transmitted infections. Stigma is driven by beliefs about the perceived severity of the condition and perceived responsibility for acquiring the condition, both in broader society and individual responsibility. We explored these beliefs and compared them across mpox, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), syphilis, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia in an online survey, conducted in July 2022, with 394 men‐who‐have‐sex‐with‐men in the Netherlands. We compared mean scores between infections using repeated measures analysis of variance and conducted hierarchical regression analyses to identify determinants of both mpox perceived responsibility endpoints. Results showed that participants expected that mpox would be seen as a “gay disease” and will be used to blame gay men. Compared to other infections, mpox was considered less severe than HIV, but more severe than syphilis, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia. Perceived responsibility was comparable across infections, but, for each infection, participants perceived attributed responsibility to be higher in society than individual responsibility. Both perceived responsibility endpoints were highly correlated with each other and with other stigma beliefs. These results provide insight on the underlying determinants of mpox stigma and demonstrate that anticipated mpox stigma is present in the Netherlands.
Comparative study on the use of seasoned or unseasoned casks made of wood from different origins for the ageing of Sherry vinegar
Authors: González‐García Juan Alberto , Cereceda Marta , Durán‐Guerrero Enrique , Rodríguez‐Dodero M Carmen , Castro Remedios
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

In the present study, the ageing process of Sherry vinegar in used (seasoned) or new casks made of chestnut, American oak, Spanish oak or French oak wood has been investigated, considering that no research has investigated whether this seasoning has a definite influence on the final composition of the aged beverage. The polyphenolic and volatile contents of the aged vinegars were determined and their sensory properties were evaluated. Different statistical tools were applied to the data collected.

RESULTS

With respect to polyphenolic contents, ageing time was the most influential factor, followed by the seasoned‐cask factor. The type of wood was only significant for gallic acid, p‐hydroxybenzoic acid, methylfurfural, ethyl gallate, ferulic acid, coniferyl aldehyde and sinapaldehyde. Principal component analysis according to polyphenols did not allow the samples to be differentiated, whereas cluster analysis revealed a slight grouping trend according to ageing time and seasoning of the wood. In relation to volatile compounds, variance analysis revealed that, again, ageing time and cask‐seasoning were the most significant factors, with the samples clustering according to these two parameters. Following the sensory study, a clear difference between seasoned and new cask vinegars could be established as a result of the high scores in olfactory quality obtained for those vinegars aged in new casks. This was probably because of an excess of the descriptor ‘ethyl acetate’ exhibited by seasoned‐cask Sherry vinegars.

CONCLUSION

The previous seasoning of the casks together with the ageing time conditioned the composition of the vinegars aged in casks of different botanical origin, which translated into differences at a sensory level. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
The current role of radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of intrahepatic recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Fu Rong , Ling Wenwu
Published: September 2023

The incidence of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after initial curative treatments is relatively high. However, there is still the lack of standard management of recurrent HCC. Among several treatment modalities for primary HCC, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) seems to be more widely used for intrahepatic recurrent lesions. Therefore, we provide a comprehensive review of the current and novel application of RFA for recurrent HCC in all stages after curative treatment of primary HCC.
Comparison of advanced methodologies for diatom identification within dynamic coastal communities
Authors: Pierce Emily , Torano Olivia , Lin YuanYu , Schnetzer Astrid , Marchetti Adrian
Published: September 2023

Diatom community composition has a critical influence on global ocean health and ecological processes. Developing accurate and efficient methods for diatom identification under dynamic environmental conditions is essential to understanding the implications of diatom community changes. Two developing methods for identifying and enumerating phytoplankton, cell imaging and molecular sequencing, are experiencing rapid advancements. This study aims to compare diatom taxonomic composition results within natural assemblages derived from rapidly advancing methods, FlowCam imaging and metabarcoding of the V4 region of the 18S rRNA gene, with traditional light microscopy cell counting techniques. All three methods were implemented in tandem to analyze changes in dynamic diatom assemblages within simulated upwelling experiments conducted in the California upwelling zone. The results of this study indicate that, summed across all samples, DNA sequencing detected four times as many genera as morphology‐based methods, thus supporting previous findings that DNA sequencing is the most powerful method for analyzing species richness. Results indicate that all three methods returned comparable relative abundance for the most abundant genera. However, the three methods did not return comparable absolute abundance, primarily due to barriers in deriving quantities in equal units. Overall, this study indicates that at the semi‐quantitative level of relative abundance measurements, FlowCam imaging and metabarcoding of the V4 region of the 18S rRNA gene yield comparable results with light microscopy but at the qualitative and quantitative levels, enumeration metrics diverge, and thus method selection and cross‐method comparison should be performed with caution.
The more extroverted the better? Unraveling the complex relationship between service robots' personality and the service robot experience
Authors: Li Changxu (Victor) , Larivière Bart
Published: September 2023

This study combines the customer experience, service robot, and communication literatures to explore how a service robot's personality affects the overall service robot experience. It considers individual (here, the customers' extroverted vs. introverted personality) and situational (here, hedonic vs. utilitarian service settings) contextual factors, and three specific service robot experiences (here, warmth, competence, and discomfort). A pretest (n = 81) shows that a robot's personality (here, extroversion vs. introversion) can be shaped using verbal and nonverbal cues in the service robot design. Applying Complexity and Configuration Theories and using the novel fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis and necessary condition analysis (NCA) techniques, the main study (n = 279) reveals the complex impact of the service robot personality on the overall service robot experience. Unlike conventional methods (e.g., SEM and regression) yielding averaged results, our findings show that various configurations with both introverted and extroverted robot personalities can equally lead to positive service robot experiences, based on the individual and situational context in which customers are embedded and the extent to which warmth, competence and discomfort are perceived. Hence, the more extroverted is not always better. Finally, the NCA findings reveal the minimum competence level that is required to obtain a certain level for the overall service robot experience. By understanding the intricate link between robot personality and its context, this research helps companies in strategically enhancing the service robot experience.