bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
System Integration Applications of Information Systems in the Space Station Freedom Program
Authors: Thomas L. Dale , Cohen Brad , Young Judy
Published: September 2023

The development of large scale systems necessarily involves a large number of engineering organizations, each working individually to design separate components which will ultimately be integrated. If these organizations are to work concurrently, routine and methodological communication between the engineering organizations is required. One necessary product of this communication is the timely specification and design of the components' mating interfaces.

The Space Station Freedom (S.S. Freedom) program is a multinational venture, with participating agencies including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (United States), the National Space Development Agency of Japan, the Canadian Space Agency, the European Space Agency, and the Italian Space Agency. To integrate a project of this scale, with such a large number of participants, a very large quantity of interface development is required to allow the design of the S.S. Freedom's components to proceed concurrently around the world. This paper briefly describes the scope of the system integration task in the S.S. Freedom program and discusses the utilization of an electronic information system specifically developed to facilitate the efficient organization and timely completion of interface design activities.
ON MANAGEMENT AND METRICS
Authors: Thomas Henry D.
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the origins of the modern‐day system of business accounting and its logical extension to management metrics as we know them. It will demonstrate that the majority of metrics used in industry today are based on financial reporting requirements. It will address the impact of these same metrics on management decision‐making.

The paper proposes a systems approach to metrics that really allows management to gauge progress towards the achievement of customer satisfaction and greater profitability. It demonstrates where to find the language in a customer's requirements that will spell the difference between customer acceptance and customer excitement. It introduces a Customer Satisfaction Matrix ‐ and explains how to build and use one. It will use a Window of Opportunity to show how an asset can really be a liability in disguise. It will demonstrate how to structure a metric so that the managerial behavior a company needs for long‐term customer satisfaction and profitability is the only behavioral choice logically and emotionally supported by the metric.
SYSTEMS ENGINEERING MATURITY MODEL
Authors: Mar Brian W.
Published: September 2023

While there is a growing interest in developing a systems engineering maturity model, there are alternatives for model development other than the SEI software process maturity model. An alternative maturity model based on metrics related to quality of product and complexity of systems engineering is proposed. The proposed model is much simplier to implement and can encompass all types of systems engineering.
UTILIZATION OF NOMOGRAMS BY SATELLITE SYSTEMS ENGINEERS
Authors: Galvin Dennis M.
Published: September 2023

One of the more challenging tasks of a satellite systems engineer is to measure the effects of changes in either mission requirements or subsystem capabilities in a timely manner during a programs' early development phase. The nomogram offers a means of relating a very large number of satellite system parameters on a graphical medium, thus providing a valuable tool for the systems engineer. The nomogram provides a faster method of estimating the effects of parameters than might otherwise be obtained using simulations or analytic methods. Nomograms also permit visualization of the effect of a change in one parameter on other parameters defined on the nomogram.

This paper presents the development and utilization of nomograms to show the effects of mission planning parameters on an earth resources or surveillance satellite mission and to show the effect of satellite mission requirements on satellite subsystems requirements. Each nomogram is presented on a medium for application as a tool for the satellite systems engineer.
DEVELOPING A SYSTEMS ENGINEERING AUTOMATION STRATEGY
Authors: Vigland Albert R.
Published: September 2023

In response to industry's need to manage systems engineering processes and methods, a market is evolving which is targeted at high‐level system design automation. Many of the tools on the market are extremely appealing — almost seductive — in their ability to captivate executives of large corporations struggling with systems engineering implementation issues. Just as an enterprise–wide homogeneous computer environment is a thing of the past, a “one–size–fits–all” solution to systems engineering automation is not likely to provide a competitive, cost effective solution. This paper describes a simple approach to organizing existing methodologies, analyzing the cost drivers for automation, and developing a strategy for automating the cost–effective segments of methodologies within an organizations systems engineering process.
THE AT&T FSAT RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS
Authors: Marion Edwin D.
Published: September 2023

The basic concepts that support the AT&T Federal Systems Advanced Technology's (FSAT) standard Risk Management process are discussed, and an overview of the process, currently a DOD Best Manufacturing Practice1 (Department of Defense 1991) is provided.

Risk management is an attempt to deal, in a structured and organized way, with technical, cost, and schedule uncertainties in project execution. In this context, risk and risk management are defined, and the basic concepts of aggregate and detailed risk analysis are developed. The standard techniques for analyzing and quantifying risk, including scenario mapping, Monte Carlo analysis, and decision trees are discussed, and an organized and integrated approach to risk management is suggested that can provide useful ways of addressing both known and unknown uncertainties.

AT&T FSAT's implementation of this approach, including integrated software tools and a close coupling to the Project Management, Systems Engineering, and Product Realization standard processes is discussed. The standard process consists of three major components identified as Risk Modeling, Decision Analysis, and Event Analysis. These components are combined into an integrated process that can be tailored to meet a wide range of project needs and can be applied on a project over its complete life cycle, from opportunity assessment to contract completion. Some recent experiences and reactions to the Risk Management process are included.
6.1.3 Systems Engineering and Supportability Analysis: Technology Refreshment for COTS‐Intensive Systems
Authors: Verma Dinesh , Plunkett Galen
Published: September 2023

The desire to integrate supportability issues in product and system design has long been articulated within the systems engineering community [Asimow, 1964; Ostrofsky, 1977; Pugh, 1980]. However, there has often been a lag between this intent and its execution. Supportability and serviceability analysis (traditionally, also referred to as ILS in the aerospace industry) is often relegated to a reactionary mode during detailed system design. At least partially, a contributing factor to this reality has been a hazy definition of supportability and serviceability parameters. This inhibits quantitative “dovetailing” of supportability parameters into the design and architecture synthesis activity.

The application of a systematic and integrated development approach must contend with the prevailing business realities. These include increased international competition, resource constraints, evolving system requirements and customer expectation, along with an imperative to get the system to market expeditiously. Furthermore, there is an increasing emphasis on assessing systems and products from a total ownership cost perspective. This mandates explicit inclusion of supportability and serviceability issues into system design. The requirement becomes even more urgent with the emphasis on commercial‐off‐the‐shelf system elements (COTS) in the development of complex, distributed, and multi‐functional systems. This emphasis on COTS technologies and elements has already resulted in significant, relatively immediate, reduction in system development and production costs, as reflected in Figure 1.

These benefits and cost reductions notwithstanding, an emphasis on utilizing COTS system elements results in unique challenges from a systems and supportability engineering standpoint. Proactive refreshment of COTS system elements becomes a key component within the overall system supportability and serviceability strategy. Furthermore, any technology refreshment strategy must be tailored to account for the system operational concept, its availability and accessibility, the business strategy, and the system maintenance concept. This is necessary if reductions in development and production costs are to be extended into an overall reduction in system ownership costs.
8.1.1 Systems Engineering and the Legal Profession – Revisited
Authors: Mackey William F.
Published: September 2023

This paper explores some of the similarities of the approaches taken by attorneys to a complex litigation case and those taken by engineers to a complex system development problem. The system development life cycle used in systems engineering has a direct corollary in the process of developing a legal case. Furthermore, the identification of technical, management, and legal risks; mitigation of those risks; and allocation of responsibility for them are of common interest to attorneys and engineering managers. This paper explores how attorneys can best assist engineers in the development process and how engineers can begin to address the problems of the litigation process.

Selected topics concerned with the invention and patent process, the systems development life cycle, and the criminal justice system are also examined in this paper. These topics are evaluated to determine some of the ways the systems engineer and the attorney can improve the people, the process, and the tools used in these two professions. The thesis is that many of the problems to come in the 21st century can be solved by the collaboration of systems engineers and attorneys.
7.2.1 A Data Structure Approach to Systems Engineering
Authors: Battersby D. J.
Published: September 2023

A fundamental aspect concerning the implementation of an efficient systems engineering process is the management and control of the data arising from the systems engineering process itself. This paper concentrates on defining the overall coordination of the disparate processes needed to define information flows within an extended organisation.

The problems of data control with respect to current data configurations are addressed and a concept for the future engineering environment developed. Discussion is presented in terms of the configuration management requirements of an organisation with semi‐integrated, large‐scale software solutions implemented across its business, design, development and manufacturing operations. A data structure concept is developed by matching the requirements of the organisation to the trends seen in the wider business environment.

In this context the systems engineering process is seen to be that by which a number of related databases evolve into a structure fitting the practical objectives of a project. The potential difficulties in achieving this are discussed in Section 2. One result that emerges from this view of systems engineering is the importance of collaboration in developing compatible data structures between organisations throughout the supply chain. The potential benefits arising from collaborative working and the associated control measures are discussed.
2.3.1 Examining the Necessity and Benefits of Systems Engineering in the Trenches
Authors: Chapin Gregory G.
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the necessity and benefits of systems engineering in the trenches1. Planner, orchestrator, negotiator, relationship builder, and communicator are key roles for a systems engineer to take in the trenches. The systems engineering approaches used and roles taken to provide technical and business process engineering solutions required to implement collaboration2 that operators used successfully to coordinate and approve fixed targets during the Operation Allied Force air campaign are documented. System objectives were: modify the existing process, leveraging collaboration to improve the effectiveness of information processes; improve product quality; and benefit federated efforts by geographically separated partners. This systems engineering effort took place at the United States European Command (USEUCOM) from February 1998 to June 1999 and continues as of this publication. USEUCOM targets community representatives estimate that using collaboration decreased target approval time from 2–4 days to 2–3 hours. Participants indicated collaboration improved process efficiencies, product quality, and synchronization. The success increased interest in and expansion of collaboration within the intelligence and operations communities, including expansion to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Clearly, the results and impact on mission effectiveness indicate systems engineering in the trenches is both necessary and beneficial.
6.3.3 Commercial System Development Models
Authors: Cathcart Tim , Grady Jeffrey O. , Jain Ravi , Surber Dan
Published: September 2023

The authors believe that system engineers commonly fail to include the full sweep of program possibilities in their view. Their views do not always encompass the full programmatic scope of marketing, system development, and programmatic life cycle issues. As a result they are not able to contribute to their full capacity in the evolution of maximally effective strategies for their enterprise. This paper does two things of value to this engineer so constrained: (1) attempts to expand the readers model of the development environment to the ultimate and (2) offers, in the process, a general model that includes within it several commercial models as well as the fairly traditional aerospace/defense development model. The authors maintain that essentially the same system engineering process will be effective within any of these particular applications of the general model, though the practitioner will have to make choices among alternative techniques.
1.4.2 Global System Architecture Optimization: Quantifying System Complexity
Authors: Carson Ronald S.
Published: September 2023

Mathematical optimization techniques are applied to the problem of selecting an optimized system architecture. Using complexity criteria we seek the allocation of functions which globally minimizes coupling and fan‐out and maximizes cohesion. The technique requires detailed functional analysis at the next lower level of indenture prior to completing the architecture at the current level. This aspect raises issues regarding the decomposition process, since the “answer” for the prior level is not completed until the functional analysis is at least begun at the next lower level. It is found that a globally optimum architecture probably cannot be defined based solely on the analysis and allocation of functions. However, the attempt to quantify complexity can yield useful data for analyzing architecture alternatives.
5.4.4 An Integrated Information Representation Schema for Complex Human Centric Systems
Authors: Crisp Harry E. , Hoang NgocDung T. , Nguyen Cuong M. , Karangelen Nicholas E. , Britton David
Published: September 2023

This paper will introduce the development of an information representation schema that can be used to support the development of complex human centric systems. Technology that was adopted to support schema evolution to accommodate new methods and tools or schema tailoring for the need of a specific program will also be addressed.
7.4.3 Learning and improvement in Product Innovation Processes: Enabling behaviors
Authors: Gieskes José F.B. , Langenberg Ilse W.H.A.
Published: September 2023

This paper describes Product Innovation as a continuous and cross‐functional process involving all stages of the product life cycle. This approach gives way to study knowledge transfer and learning in companies from a continuous improvement viewpoint. Based on a model developed in CIMA, a European ESPRIT project, the way in which a company shares and transfers knowledge and learning experiences in its product innovation process are assessed. The results can be used to give focus and direction to improvement actions (such as systems engineering and software development improvement plans).

The model describes learning and knowledge transfer within product innovation processes in terms of a number of interrelated variables: (improvement) performances, behaviors and levers to stimulate improvement, contingencies and learning / innovation capabilities. At the Research & Development Department of SIGNAAL the model was used to assess its current practices with regard to learning and improvement in product innovation. The results validate efforts on current and past improvement actions and provide additional insight into the past, current and future situation. Furthermore, the recommendations provide guidelines on how to continue with improvement.
8.4.3 COTS: What You Get (In Addition to the Potential Development Savings)
Authors: Long James E.
Published: September 2023

It comes as no surprise that incorporating an existing component into a system means you save in having to develop the component yourself—savings in schedule and development costs. What often is surprising is the impact that incorporating an existing component has on the system engineering process.

This paper reviews the system engineering process and shows where the incorporation of COTS (Commercial‐off‐the‐shelf) and GOTS (Government‐off‐the‐shelf) fits into the process. It discusses the savings you get from a COTS component as well as the cost of these savings. Also described are the issues of interfaces and life cycle maintenance and modification. Once you incorporate a COTS component, how do you handle the upgrades to the COTS? Before jumping in to take advantage of COTS products, take time to consider whether the system and design process are robust enough to handle the additional constraints.
2.5.1 Tailoring the EIA/IS‐731.2 Questionnaire
Authors: Dustin Anne Lilly , Graden Clint J.
Published: September 2023

A tailored EIA/IS‐731.2 assessment was performed on an organization responsible for oversight management. This project presented the assessment team with an opportunity to learn more about the EIA/IS‐731.2 Systems Engineering Capability Model Appraisal Method while performing an assessment with limited resources. EIA/IS‐731.2 emphasises tailoring the appraisal method to meet the objectives of the organization being assessed. However, with regard to tailoring the questionnaire, EIA/IS‐731.2 only discusses the selection of the appropriate Focus Areas and the method in which the questionnaire is administered. It is apparent that other types of tailoring could be just as productive to the assessment process. With regard to tailoring the questionnaire, our main objectives were: 1) to make the assessment process more efficient and less cumbersome by decreasing the time spent interpreting questions, and 2) to allow participants to better focus on the real issues by using language familiar to the participants. Tailoring the EIA/IS‐731.2 assessment questionnaire proved to be important to the success of this project. We increased customer satisfaction, decreased the time required for the participants to respond to the questions, and enhanced participant focus during the interview phase of the assessment. This paper discusses several areas in which the questionnaire was tailored for this assessment and the affect the modifications had on the questionnaire and the assessment. Additionally, this paper addresses other areas in which the quesitonnaire can be further tailored in order to increase clarity and succinctness.
2.5.2 An Innovative Adaptation of the EIA/IS 731.2 Systems Engineering Capability Model Appraisal Method
Authors: Graden C. J. , Nipper D. W.
Published: September 2023

In response to an opportunity to learn EIA/IS 731 appraisal methods while performing a real appraisal with limited resources, an appraisal team has developed an innovative approach to the questionnaire and interview/meeting analysis phases. First, a spreadsheet adaptation of the EIA/IS 731.2 questionnaire was prepared, providing a compact presentation of the preparatory briefing information, the question text, an area for answers, and an expanded area for comments. The net effect was one of combining the questionnaire completion with the data entry. Second, a method of grouping observed comments and questionnaire comments by topic was employed which reduced analysis time. As a result of this first trial, a number of further innovations based on database and Web technologies are discussed.
3.5.4 Systems Engineering Capability Model and the Systems Engineering Management Planning Environment
Authors: Martin Patricia T. , Baker Loyd , Thomas Terry N. , Knopf Fred
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Existing Systems Engineering Tool Environments can be used to automate the systems engineering management planning process compliant with the Systems Engineering Capability Model (SECM) contained in EIA‐731.1 and other necessary standards and practices. This paper describes how 3SL's Cradle tool is being used to integrate the planning process, using multiple modeling techniques, while maintaining traceability to IEEE‐1220‐1998, EIA‐632‐1999, the EIA‐731.1 & EIA‐731.2 SECM practices and DoD 5000.2. The result is a management plan that is useful for facilitating the processes in an Integrated Product Team (IPT) environment and foster continuous process improvement.

Systems Engineering tool environments are available to create and maintain both the Systems Engineering Management Plan (SEMP) and integrated project databases. Typically, the SEMP and database development activities are disjoint.

Topics

This presentation discusses the dynamics of inserting Systems Engineering Processes into an unstructured IPT environment and how a model‐based SE process was embraced to introduce rigor, improve communications, and enforce design consistency. How this integrated SEMP provides traceability into common capability model practices and Government acquisition practices and results is presented.
1.6.1 Development of Systems Engineers: A Structured Approach Based Upon International Experience
Authors: Harris Michael B.
Published: September 2023

The Systems Engineering and Evaluation Centre (SEEC), a dedicated research group within the University of South Australia, has been involved with an international Graduate Engineer Trainee Programme for several years. This experience has strengthened the observed enterprise‐level advantages of Systems Engineering training based upon appropriate education and work experience tailored for select individuals. The lessons learned from this involvement have been gathered as the basis for a structured approach for the development of Systems Engineers.
2.6.1 Germany's V‐2 Rocket Program and the Application of Systems Engineering
Authors: Ankrum T. Scott
Published: September 2023

During World War II, Nazi Germany rained terror down on London and other European cities with the World's first guided ballistic missile. Was that a marvel of systems engineering, before the term was even invented, or were other factors at work? The V‐2 rocket was taken, by Nazi Germany, from an unproven concept to mass production and use, even while the nation was under severe political and economic stress. In this paper, the progress of the V‐2 program is traced, from concept to production and use, while highlighting the major problems and milestones. How the major elements of systems engineering were incorporated into the program, or not, is examined. Were the concepts of systems engineering known at the time, even if the term was not? If not, would an understanding of systems engineering have made a difference to the V‐2 team, given the circumstances of war, politics and economics at the time?
2.6.3 Designing a Systems Engineering Educational Program Using Academic/Industry Collaboration
Authors: Turnquist Mark A. , D'Andrea Raffaelo , George Albert R. , Jackson Peter , Nozick Linda K. , Rhodes Donna , Roundy Robin , Selman Bart , Shoemaker Christine A. , Thomas Robert J.
Published: September 2023

In concert with a fundamental precept in systems engineering, that system design should be driven by customer requirements, Cornell University is collaborating with industry in the development of a Master of Engineering program in Systems Engineering. This paper describes the underlying philosophy of Cornell's program, the collaborative process through which it has been developed, and the resulting curriculum, with a particular focus on the interaction between Cornell and Lockheed Martin Federal Systems (LMFS).
9.2 Propulsion Control of Aircraft: A Case Study in Systems Engineering
Authors: Johnson Robert A.
Published: September 2023

On July 19, 1989 United Airlines Flight 232 was cruising at approximately 37,000 feet between Denver and Minneapolis when it experienced a catastrophic failure of the number two (tail‐mounted) engine. At the moment of failure the engine ejected shrapnel through the tail section, destroying all three on‐board hydraulic systems. The complete loss of hydraulics left the pilots of the McDonnell Douglas DC‐10 aircraft without the ability to move the flight controls. In contrast to what most aviation experts would have expected as an outcome, the airplane was crash‐landed at Sioux City, Iowa with 185 of the 296 passengers and crew surviving. The flight crew was able to maintain rudimentary control of the aircraft with only the use of thrust from the two remaining wing‐mounted engines by independently moving their respective power levers. It was not until the final touchdown that the crew's command of the aircraft was lost due to the imprecise nature of manual propulsion control (Propulsion Controlled Aircraft [PCA], 1999).

Following the accident, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommended that Propulsion Control of Aircraft (PCA) be evaluated as a “pilot friendly” backup system using engine thrust as the only actuating mechanism in the case of primary flight control failure. This paper examines the use of systems engineering to effectively decompose the problem, identify the solution set, and integrate the solution with the potential for improved safety and reduced life cycle costs. An overview of aircraft flight dynamics and primary control systems is provided in order to understand the basic system properties. Analysis includes physical systems as well as software systems and their interface. Finally, the use of simulation to better understand system behavior and mitigate risk while arriving at a system‐based solution is examined (Blanchard, 1998). Control the aircraft in flight after a primary flight control failure and accomplish that with an interface which is intuitive to the pilot, that is the problem. The solution could only have been reached through systems engineering.
9.7 Overview of a CONOPS for an SE Education Community
Authors: Ring Jack , Wymore A. Wayne
Published: September 2023

This paper summarizes a concept of operations (ConOps) for a Systems Engineering Education Community (SEEC). An SEEC enables those involved in performing systems engineering to improve systems engineering. An SEEC is envisioned as a vehicle for competency and proficiency growth by all practitioners of systems engineering as well as the vehicle for measuring, quantitatively, both the supply and demand sides of the SE learning community. Finally, the SEEC should be a resource for helping all members of the community make choices about the content, structure, utilization and outcomes of an SEEC.

The best SEEC is the one that produces a stream of the appropriate mix of SE practitioners for forthcoming projects at minimum cost and cycle time. Relative to current SE learning providers we estimate that cycle times must be reduced three fold and learning extent must be expanded nine fold. Also, capacity must increase two to five fold.
Comparison of Two Dexmedetomidine Administration Strategies on the Incidence of Postoperative Respiratory Complications: A Retrospective, Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighted Study
Authors: Baulier Charles , Popoff Benjamin , Wood Gregory , Schwarz Lilian , Tuech Jean‐Jacques , Dureuil Bertrand , Compère Vincent , Clavier Thomas
Published: September 2023

Randomized controlled trials have shown a higher risk of postoperative hypoxemia and delayed extubation with opioid‐free anesthesia (OFA), compared with opioid anesthesia. The practice of OFA is not standardized. The objective of this study is to investigate the association between the dexmedetomidine administration protocol used and the occurrence of postoperative respiratory complications. This work is a retrospective, propensity score‐adjusted study (inverse probability of treatment weighting) conducted between January 2019 and September 2021 in a French tertiary care university hospital, including 180 adult patients undergoing major digestive surgery. Comparison of 2 anesthesia protocols: with a continuous intravenous maintenance dose of dexmedetomidine following a bolus (group B+M, n = 105) or with a bolus dose alone (group B, n = 75). The main outcome measure was a composite respiratory end point within 24 hours of surgery. There was no significant difference in the incidence of overall respiratory complications, as assessed by the primary end point. Nevertheless, there were more patients with postoperative hypercapnia in group B+M than in group B (16% vs 2.5%, P = .004). Patients in group B+M were extubated later than patients in group B (group B+M, median 40 minutes, IQR 20‐74 minutes; group B, median 20 minutes, IQR 10‐50 minutes; P = .004). Our study showed negative results for the primary end point. However, data on the increased risk of postoperative hypercapnia in patients receiving a maintenance dose of dexmedetomidine are new. Other prospective randomized studies with greater power are necessary to confirm these data and to make OFA safer, by reducing the prescribed doses of dexmedetomidine.
Response‐dependent point loss and response force as disrupting operations on behavioral resistance to change in humans
Authors: Costa Carlos Eduardo , Luiz André Connor de Méo , Carmona Lucas Franco , Ponce Guilherme Dutra , Banaco Roberto Alves , Lattal Kennon A.
Published: September 2023

Behavioral momentum theory (BMT) provides a theoretical and methodological framework for understanding how differentially maintained operant responding resists disruption. A common way to test operant resistance involves contingencies with suppressive effects, such as extinction or prefeeding. Other contingencies with known suppressive effects, such as response‐cost procedures arranged as point‐loss or increases in response force, remain untested as disruptive events within the BMT framework. In the present set of three experiments, responding of humans was maintained by point accumulation programmed according to a multiple variable‐interval (VI) VI schedule with different reinforcement rates in either of two components. Subsequently, subtracting a point following each response (Experiment 1) or increasing the force required for the response to be registered (Experiments 2 and 3 decreased response rates, but responding was less disrupted in the component associated with the higher reinforcement rate. The point‐loss contingency and increased response force similarly affected response rates by suppressing responding and human persistence, replicating previous findings with humans and nonhuman animals when other types of disruptive events (e.g., extinction and prefeeding) were investigated. The present findings moreover extend the generality of the effects of reinforcement rate on persistence, and thus BMT, extending the analysis of resistance to two well‐known manipulations used to reduce responding in the experimental analysis of behavior.
Impact of non‐thermal plasma on betel leaf powder for essential oil extraction and its quality characteristics
Authors: Karunanithi Sangeetha , Guha Proshanta , Srivastav Prem Prakash
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Betel leaf is an essential oil (EO)‐rich plant from the Piperaceace family used as traditional herbal medicine. The minimum EO yield by the conventional extraction method was increased by adopting cold plasma (CP) as pretreatment. Thus, the present study involved optimizing the CP conditions and analyzing the EO's qualities.

RESULTS

Optimization of the CP parameters like electric voltage (A = 25–35 kV), treatment duration (B = 4–12 min) and extraction time (C = 60–180 min) was done for maximum EO yield (R1) and total phenolic content (TPC; R2) using response surface methodology with Box–Behnken design. Maximum EO yield (20.76 ± 1.15 g kg−1) and TPC (29.43 ± 1.7 mg GAE mL−1) were derived under optimal conditions: A = 34 kV, B = 10 min and C = 110 min. A quadratic polynomial model developed by multiple regression analysis revealed that the three independent variables significantly influenced the oil yield and TPC with R2 values of 0.9909 and 0.9962, respectively. The CP treatment significantly altered the betel leaf powder morphology and increased the EO's radical scavenging capacity and bioactive compounds like chavibetol, chavibetol acetate, hydroxychavicol and γ‐muurolene. Conversely, the functional groups, refractive index and specific gravity were unaffected by CP treatment.

CONCLUSION

The EO yield and its qualities were improved by applying CP under optimal conditions which can be helpful for scaled‐up industrial processes with further studies. The identified bioactive compounds are valuable in the food and pharmaceutical industries. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Short‐ and long‐term outcomes of transanal decompression tube and self‐expandable metallic stent for obstructive colorectal cancer based on a multicenter database (KYCC2110)
Authors: Numata Koji , Numata Masakatsu , Shirai Junya , Sawazaki Sho , Okamoto Hironao , Godai Teni , Katayama Yusuke , Atsumi Yosuke , Kazama Keisuke , Uchiyama Mamoru , Kohmura Takashi , Mushiake Hiroyuki , Sugano Nobuhiro , Higuchi Akio , Kato Aya , Iguchi Kenta , Rino Yasushi , Shiozawa Manabu
Published: September 2023

Aim

There are well‐known methods for decompressing the colorectal tract before surgery, including transanal decompression tubes (TDT) and self‐expanding metallic stents (SEMS). This study aimed to compare the short and long‐term results in patients with malignant large bowel obstruction in whom TDT or SEMS were placed before surgery.

Methods

This retrospective observational study enrolled 225 patients with malignant large bowel obstruction in whom TDT or SEMS were placed preoperatively and underwent R0 resection between 2008 and 2020. One‐to‐two propensity score matching was performed according to patient characteristics. Short‐ and long‐term outcomes were compared. The primary endpoint was relapse‐free survival (RFS). The secondary endpoints were the overall survival (OS) and postoperative complication rate.

Results

Fifty‐seven patients in the TDT group and 114 in the SEMS group were matched. The 3‐year RFS rates were 66.7% in the TDT group and 69.9% in the SEMS group (p = 0.54), and the 3‐year OS rates were 90.5% in the TDT group and 87.1% in the SEMS group (p = 0.52). No significant differences in the long‐term results were observed between the two groups. Regarding short‐term results, the SEMS group had significantly fewer stoma construction (p = 0.007) and shorter postoperative hospitalization (p < 0.001). The incidence of postoperative complications (grade ≥ 2) was significantly lower in the SEMS group (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

No significant differences in the long‐term results were observed between the TDT and SEMS group. The SEMS showed significant usefulness in terms of improving short‐term outcomes.
Reversible Assembly of Conductive Supragel Building Blocks by Metallo‐Complexes
Authors: Grigoryev Evgeny , Liubimtsev Nikolai , Neuendorf Talika A. , Vigogne Michelle , Thiele Julian
Published: September 2023

The design of multicomponent, building block‐based assemblies of polymer materials has gained tremendous interest due to the ability to combine functional variety and materials inside one integrated object. One such type of building blocks are polymer hydrogels that assemble into so‐called supragels. For that, it is necessary to implement reliable intra‐ and innerparticle cross‐linking methods that ensure mechanical stability and the supragels' adaptiveness over its life cycle, e.g., via selective assembly and disassembly. Here, a facile method for reversible interparticle cross‐linking of vinylimidazole‐based polymer hydrogel particles is presented. The method is based on supramolecular cross‐linking via transition metal complexation. Supragels consisting of four to 27 individual 3 × 3 × 3 mm particles are successfully obtained. By swelling the preassembled hydrogels inside aqueous solutions of Zn2+, Cu2+, and Fe2+ ions, stable interparticle linkage is achieved within 15 min. These supragels resist mechanical forces, but can be quantitatively disassembled into their corresponding building blocks by simple ligand exchange with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). With this method, it is possible to quickly build hydrogel macrostructures of any shape and complexity, which exemplarily also exhibit electrical conductivity due to the introduction of metal ions for cross‐linking.
Phenotypic Heterogeneity in Patients with Mutations in the Mitochondrial Complex I Assembly Gene NDUFAF5
Authors: Chen Pin‐Shiuan , Lee Ni‐Chung , Sung Chieh‐Ju , Liu Ya‐Wen , Weng Wen‐Chin , Fan Pi‐Chuan , Lee Wang‐Tso , Chien Yin‐Hsiu , Wu Chao‐Szu , Sung Yueh‐Feng , Tsai Ming‐Chen , Lee Yi‐Chung , Hsueh Hsueh‐Wen , Fan Sabrina Mai‐Yi , Wu Meng‐Chen , Li Hsun , Chen Huan‐Yun , Lin Han‐I , Ou‐Yang Chih‐Hsin , Hwuh Wuh‐Liang , Lin Chin‐Hsien
Published: September 2023

Background

Rare mutations in NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase complex assembly factor 5 (NDUFAF5) are linked to Leigh syndrome.

Objective

We aimed to describe clinical characteristics and functional findings in a patient cohort with NDUFAF5 mutations.

Methods

Patients with biallelic NDUFAF5 mutations were recruited from multi‐centers in Taiwan. Clinical, laboratory, radiological, and follow‐up features were recorded and mitochondrial assays were performed in patients' skin fibroblasts.

Results

Nine patients from seven unrelated pedigrees were enrolled, eight homozygous for c.836 T > G (p.Met279Arg) in NDUFAF5 and one compound heterozygous for p.Met279Arg. Onset age had a bimodal distribution. The early‐onset group (age <3 years) presented with psychomotor delay, seizure, respiratory failure, and hyponatremia. The late‐onset group (age ≥5 years) presented with normal development, but slowly progressive dystonia. Combing 25 previously described patients, the p.Met279Arg variant was exclusively identified in Chinese ancestry. Compared with other groups, patients with late‐onset homozygous p.Met279Arg were older at onset (P = 0.008), had less developmental delay (P = 0.01), less hyponatremia (P = 0.01), and better prognosis with preserved ambulatory function into early adulthood (P = 0.01). Bilateral basal ganglia necrosis was a common radiological feature, but brainstem and spinal cord involvement was more common with early‐onset patients (P = 0.02). A modifier gene analysis showed higher concomitant mutation burden in early—versus late‐onset p.Met279Arg homozygous cases (P = 0.04), consistent with more impaired mitochondrial function in fibroblasts from an early‐onset case than a late‐onset patient.

Conclusions

The p.Met279Arg variant is a common mutation in our population with phenotypic heterogeneity and divergent prognosis based on age at onset. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
A polarization‐insensitive metamaterial absorber for moisture‐sensing applications of agriculture products
Authors: Singh Harbinder , Sharma Atipriya , Gupta Amit , Singhal Ankur
Published: September 2023

This study evaluates the metamaterial absorbance and sensing applications of a novel wheel‐shaped resonator with triangular spokes. Electromagnetic simulation software, CST Microwave Studio, is used to investigate the numerical results before experimental verification. The proposed absorber exhibits perfect absorption properties at 10.42 GHz, with an absorbability of 99.85%. The designed sensor has been tested for estimating the moisture content of agricultural products, specifically almond kernels. The proposed prototype exhibits an excellent figure of merit and high sensitivity of 58.14 and 11.29 GHz/moisture content percentage, respectively. Additionally, the resonant peak of the sensor shifts by approximately 430 MHz when there is a 4% incremental alteration in the moisture content of the analyzed test sample. The designed sensor shows a high linearity in detecting small variations in moisture level, making it a favorable choice for sensing applications due to its compact size and flat shape.
No Increased Mercury Release from Dental Restorations at 1.5T, 3T, or 7T MRI
Authors: Burkett Brian J. , Rasmussen Chad M. , Fillmore W. Jonathan , McDonald Jennifer S. , McDonald Robert J. , Fagan Andrew J. , Erdahl Sarah A. , Eckdahl Steven J. , Welker Kirk M.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Dental amalgam contains mercury and is commonly used in dental restorations. The impact of MRI on mercury excretion from dental amalgam is not well understood across clinical field strengths, especially 7T. We investigated the effects of MRI exposure on mercury excretion using fresh, lab‐created dental amalgam restorations and in extracted teeth with old, pre‐existing restorations.

Methods

Donated, unfilled human teeth (n = 120) were restored with amalgam before being stored in saline, artificial saliva, or a dry box prior to MRI scanning. The teeth were placed in individual tubes of fresh artificial saliva and scanned at 1.5T, 3T, or 7T or left unscanned as controls. Mercury concentrations were measured 24–30 h later. Donated teeth with pre‐existing restorations (n = 40) were stored in artificial saliva, scanned at 7T or left unscanned as controls, and mercury concentration tested.

Results

For teeth extracted and restored in a laboratory, no significant difference was found (F = 2.42, P = 0.072) between mean mercury concentrations of unscanned teeth (13.72 μg/L) and teeth scanned at 1.5T (10.88 μg/L), 3T (12.65 μg/L), or 7T (8.88 μg/L). For teeth extracted with previously placed restorations, no significant difference (P = 0.288) was found between unscanned controls (4.28 μg/L) and teeth scanned at 7T (6.63 μg/L).

Conclusion

MRI of dental amalgam does not significantly increase mercury excretion at 1.5T, 3T, or 7T compared to unscanned teeth. This holds true for controlled laboratory restorations as well as for those placed and lived with prior to extraction and scanning, demonstrating no added risk to the clinical patient or research subject.
MiR‐484 promotes nonalcoholic fatty liver disease progression in mice via downregulation of Sorbs2
Authors: Jia Yinzhao , Pan Hao , Liu Jing , Huang Tiezeng , Han Ke , Mei Qiaojuan , Zeng Ling , Zhou Jinzhao , Zhang Yong
Published: September 2023

Objective

MicroRNA 484 (miR‐484) plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of different diseases and is typically described as a mitochondrial regulator. Whether miR‐484 is involved in lipid metabolism or exerts a role in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease remains unclear.

Methods

miR‐484 levels were examined in the livers of male mice fed a high‐fat diet and in hepatocytes treated with free fatty acids. Sorbin and SH3 structural domain‐containing protein 2 (Sorbs2) were identified as a novel target of miR‐484 by sequencing mRNA in the livers of miR‐484 knockout mice. Sorbs2 liver‐specific knockdown mice were constructed by tail vein injection of adeno‐associated virus vector to miR‐484 knockout mice. In addition, genetic manipulation of SORBS2 was performed in human hepatocyte lines, mouse primary hepatocytes, and the liver.

Results

Serum and hepatic miR‐484 levels are upregulated in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease mice. miR‐484 knockdown ameliorated hepatocyte steatosis, whereas miR‐484 overexpression increased hepatocyte lipid load. miR‐484 knockdown‐mediated alleviation of hepatic steatosis, liver injury, inflammation, and apoptosis was compromised after high‐fat diet‐induced knockdown of Sorbs2 in mouse liver and free fatty acid‐induced primary mouse hepatocytes.

Conclusions

These results identify Sorbs2‐mediated mitochondrial β‐oxidation and apoptosis that promote miR‐484 knockdown‐mediated remission of hepatic steatosis.

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Trends in the burden of most common obesity‐related cancers in 16 Southern Africa development community countries, 1990–2019. Findings from the global burden of disease study
Authors: Gona Philimon , Gona Clara , Ballout Suha , Mapoma Chabila , Rao Sowmya , Mokdad Ali ,   (GBD 2019 SADC BMI)
Published: September 2023

Background

Obesity‐related cancers in the 16 Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries is quite prominent. The changes and time trends of the burden of obesity‐related cancers in developing countries like SADC remain largely unknown. A descriptive epidemiological analysis was conducted to assess the burden of obesity‐related cancers, (liver, esophageal, breast, prostate, colon/rectal, leukemia, ovarian, uterine, pancreatic, kidney, gallbladder/biliary tract, and thyroid cancers) in SADC countries.

Methods

Data from the 2019 Global Burden of Diseases Study was used. Deaths extracted from vital registration, verbal autopsies and ICD codes. Cancer‐type, mortality and prevalence per 100,000 population and 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) were calculated using the Cause of Death Ensemble model and Spatio‐Temporal Gaussian process with mixed effects regression models. Annual rates of change (AROCs) between 1990 and 2019 and the corresponding UIs were calculated.

Results

The top age‐standardized mortality rates per 100,000 in 2019 for males were leukemia, 20.1(14.4–26.4), esophageal cancer, 15.1 (11.2–19.1), and colon and rectal cancer, 10.3 (8.6–12.6). For females, breast cancer, 20.6 (16.6–25.0), leukemia, 17.1 (11.4–23.7), and esophageal cancer, 8.3 (5.5–10.7), had the leading mortality rates. For males, AROC substantial (p < 0.05) increase for kidney cancer for 11 of the countries (AROC from 0.41% to 1.24%), colon cancer for eight of the countries (from 0.39% to 0.92%), and pancreatic cancer for seven countries (from 0.26% to 1.01%). In females, AROC showed substantial increase for pancreatic cancer for 13 of the countries from (0.34%–1.67%), nine countries for kidney cancer (from 0.27% to 1.02%), seven countries each for breast cancer (0.35%–1.13%), and ovarian cancer (from 0.33% to 1.21%).

Conclusions

There is need for location‐specific and culturally appropriate strategies for better nutrition and weight control, and improved screening for all cancers. Health promotion messaging should target kidney, colon, pancreatic, and breast cancers and encourage clinically tested methods of reducing BMI such as increasing personal physical activity and adoption of effective dietary regimes.