bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educational tool for foundation of electricity using conductive pen and carbon ink brush pen
Authors: Sakai Daisuke , Kida Sayaka , Harada Kenji , Shibata Hiroyuki
Published: October 2018

We propose an educational tool for foundation of electricity using conductive pens. Electrical leads for an experiment were drawn on the inkjet printing paper using silver ink marker. Electrical resistances were drawn by two kinds of pens; one was the same silver ink marker and the other was a carbon ink brush pen. A combined resistance was measured and compared with the calculated value. The relative error was less than ±1% in both series and parallel connection with the resistances drawn by the carbon ink brush. Therefore, this is useful to experience and learn the foundation of electricity.
Ammonothermal Synthesis of EAMO2N (EA = Sr, Ba; M = Nb, Ta) Perovskites and 14N Solid‐State NMR Spectroscopic Investigations of AM(O,N)3 (A = Ca, Sr, Ba, La)
Authors: Cordes Niklas , Bräuniger Thomas , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: October 2018

Alkaline earth oxonitride perovskites EAMO2N (EA = Sr, Ba; M = Nb, Ta) were synthesized by the ammonothermal method at temperatures of 900 K and maximum pressures of up to 300 MPa in custom‐built autoclaves starting from Nb or Ta and Sr or Ba metals. The reactions were performed under ammonobasic conditions using NaN3 and NaOH as mineralizers. Powder X‐ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement were used to determine the crystal structures. The elemental composition and morphology of the obtained products were investigated by scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Crystals of 1–10 µm size were obtained. Optical band gap values were determined from UV/Vis measurements applying the Kubelka–Munk function with the Tauc method (Eg = 1.9 ‐ 2.1 eV). In addition to that, ANb/Ta(O,N)3 with A = Ca, Sr, Ba, La were synthesized by ammonolysis reactions of the respective ternary oxide precursors. The products were investigated with 14N solid‐state (MAS) NMR spectroscopy, all showing a single resonance at about 270 ppm.
In Utero Exposure to Benzo[a]pyrene Induces Ovarian Mutations at Doses That Deplete Ovarian Follicles in Mice
Authors: Luderer Ulrike , Meier Matthew J. , Lawson Gregory W. , Beal Marc A. , Yauk Carole L. , Marchetti Francesco
Published: October 2018

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons like benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants formed during incomplete combustion of organic materials. Our prior work showed that transplacental exposure to BaP depletes ovarian follicles and increases prevalence of epithelial ovarian tumors later in life. We used the MutaMouse transgenic rodent model to address the hypothesis that ovarian mutations play a role in tumorigenesis caused by prenatal exposure to BaP. Pregnant MutaMouse females were treated with 0, 10, 20, or 40 mg/(kg day) BaP orally on gestational days 7–16, covering critical windows of ovarian development. Female offspring were euthanized at 10 weeks of age; some ovaries with oviducts were processed for follicle counting; other ovaries/oviducts and bone marrow were processed for determination of lacZ mutant frequency (MF). Mutant plaques were pooled within dose groups and sequenced to determine the mutation spectrum. BaP exposure caused highly significant dose‐related decreases in ovarian follicles and increases in ovarian/oviductal and bone marrow mutant frequencies at all doses. Absence of follicles, cell packets, and epithelial tubular structures were observed with 20 and 40 mg/(kg day) BaP. Depletion of ovarian germ cells was inversely associated with ovarian MF. BaP induced primarily G > T and G > C transversions and deletions in ovaries/oviducts and bone marrow cells and produced a mutation signature highly consistent with that of tobacco smoking in human cancers. Overall, our results show that prenatal BaP exposure significantly depletes ovarian germ cells, causes histopathological abnormalities, and increases the burden of ovarian/oviductal mutations, which may be involved in pathogenesis of epithelial ovarian tumors. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 60:410–420, 2019. © 2018 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada
Treatment of infantile spasms
Authors: Hussain Shaun A.
Published: October 2018

The treatment of infantile spasms is challenging, especially in the context of the following: (1) a severe phenotype with high morbidity and mortality; (2) the urgency of diagnosis and successful early response to therapy; and (3) the paucity of effective, safe, and well‐tolerated therapies. Even after initially successful treatment, relapse risk is substantial and the most effective therapies pose considerable risk with long‐term administration. In evaluating any treatment for infantile spasms, the key short‐term outcome measure is freedom from both epileptic spasms and hypsarrhythmia. In contrast, the most important long‐term outcomes are enduring seizure‐freedom and measures of intellectual performance in later childhood and adulthood. First‐line treatment options—namely hormonal therapy and vigabatrin—display moderate to high efficacy but also exhibit substantial side‐effect burdens. Data on efficacy and safety of each class of therapy, as well as the combination of these therapies, are reviewed in detail. Specific hormonal therapies (adrenocorticotropic hormone and various corticosteroids) are contrasted. Those etiologies that prompt specific therapies are reviewed briefly, as are an array of second‐line therapies supported by less‐compelling data. The ketogenic diet is discussed in greater detail, with a focus on the limitations of numerous available studies that generally suggest that it is efficacious. Special discussion is allocated to cannabidiol—the investigational therapy that has received the most attention, and which is already in use in the form of various artisanal cannabis extracts. Finally, a treatment algorithm reflecting the concepts and controversies discussed in this review is presented.
Viewing global strategy through a microfoundations lens
Authors: Contractor Farok , Foss Nicolai J. , Kundu Sumit , Lahiri Somnath
Published: October 2018

Research Summary: The emerging microfoundations literature asserts that macro concepts and macro‐outcomes, such as firm‐level capabilities, performance and strategies, need to be understood in terms of the underlying actions, interactions and characteristics of micro‐level entities, such as individual actors and managers. This literature has specific implications for the understanding of cross‐level explanatory mechanisms; notably, it asserts that all relations between macro variables are mechanisms that involve micro variables. While the microfoundations literature has been influential in the general strategy literature, global strategy has been less impacted by it. This is paradoxical because the research challenges pointed to by the literature are often magnified in the multinational corporation and in a global strategy context, and this context may introduce novel challenges. For example, Google's strategic decision in 2018 to reenter the Chinese market (macro‐level analysis) is best understood through the thinking of decision‐makers in the company, as well as opposition to the move from over 1,000 of its employees. We characterize microfoundations, discuss their relevance to the global strategy, and show how the papers in this special issue fill important microfoundational gaps in the global strategy literature.

Managerial Summary: For too long, studies of corporate strategies have focused on the firm as a unit of analysis, as if the firm could decide or think on its own, neglecting the fact that it is managers who think. The underlying motivations, interactions and characteristics of individual managers of companies have often been missing in explanations of global strategy formulation. This can especially be a lacuna in closely‐held companies in emerging countries where decision‐making is more concentrated in the minds of owners, top managers and family members.

The microfoundations literature specifically tries to connect the thinking and backgrounds of individual managers with strategic decisions their firm makes. While the microfoundations literature has made some headway in the general strategy literature, the analysis of global strategy has been less impacted by it. This is paradoxical because the research challenges pointed to by the literature are often magnified in the multinational corporation and in a global strategy context. This introductory paper first refines and enunciates microfoundations theory, in its application to global business. It then also shows how the papers in this special issue fill important microfoundational gaps in the global strategy literature.
White matter microstructural development and cognitive ability in the first 2 years of life
Authors: Girault Jessica B. , Cornea Emil , Goldman Barbara D. , Knickmeyer Rebecca C. , Styner Martin , Gilmore John H.
Published: October 2018

White matter (WM) integrity has been related to cognitive ability in adults and children, but it remains largely unknown how WM maturation in early life supports emergent cognition. The associations between tract‐based measures of fractional anisotropy (FA) and axial and radial diffusivity (AD, RD) shortly after birth, at age 1, and at age 2 and cognitive measures at 1 and 2 years were investigated in 447 healthy infants. We found that generally higher FA and lower AD and RD across many WM tracts in the first year of life were associated with better performance on measures of general cognitive ability, motor, language, and visual reception skills at ages 1 and 2, suggesting an important role for the overall organization, myelination, and microstructural properties of fiber pathways in emergent cognition. RD in particular was consistently related to ability, and protracted development of RD from ages 1 to 2 years in several tracts was associated with higher cognitive scores and better language performance, suggesting prolonged plasticity may confer cognitive benefits during the second year of life. However, we also found that cognition at age 2 was weakly associated with WM properties across infancy in comparison to child and demographic factors including gestational age and maternal education. Our findings suggest that early postnatal WM integrity across the brain is important for infant cognition, though its role in cognitive development should be considered alongside child and demographic factors.
Spatio‐temporal variability of the isotopic input signal in a partly forested catchment: Implications for hydrograph separation
Authors: Cayuela Carles , Latron Jérôme , Geris Josie , Llorens Pilar
Published: October 2018

The isotopic composition of precipitation (D and 18O) has been widely used as an input signal in water tracer studies. Whereas much recent effort has been put into developing methodologies to improve our understanding and modelling of hydrological processes (e.g., transit‐time distributions or young water fractions), less attention has been paid to the spatio‐temporal variability of the isotopic composition of precipitation, used as input signal in these studies. Here, we investigated the uncertainty in isotope‐based hydrograph separation due to the spatio‐temporal variability of the isotopic composition of precipitation. The study was carried out in a Mediterranean headwater catchment (0.56 km2). Rainfall and throughfall samples were collected at three locations across this relatively small catchment, and stream water samples were collected at the outlet. Results showed that throughout an event, the spatial variability of the input signal had a higher impact on hydrograph separation results than its temporal variability. However, differences in isotope‐based hydrograph separation determined preevent water due to the spatio‐temporal variability were different between events and ranged between 1 and 14%. Based on catchment‐scale isoscapes, the most representative sampling location could also be identified. This study confirms that even in small headwater catchments, spatio‐temporal variability can be significant. Therefore, it is important to characterize this variability and identify the best sampling strategy to reduce the uncertainty in our understanding of catchment hydrological processes.
Biocompatibility of injectable hydrogel from decellularized human adipose tissue in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Zhao Yu , Fan Jun , Bai Shuling
Published: October 2018

Adipose tissue engineering is considered as a promising treatment for repairing soft tissue defects. The decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) is becoming the research focus in tissue engineering for its tissue specificity. In this study, the human adipose tissue liposucted from healthy people were decellularized by a series of mechanical, chemical, and enzymatic methods. The components of cell and lipid were effectively removed, whereas the collagens and other ingredients in adipose tissue were retained in the human decellularized adipose tissue (hDAT). Then the extracted hDAT was further fabricated into injectable hydrogel, which could be self‐assembled to form gel under certain condition. The hDAT hydrogel was nontoxic to human adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) and could spontaneously induce adipogenic differentiation in vitro. It was highly biocompatible and could not cause inflammation and rejection after being implanted subcutaneously. The hDAT hydrogel developed in this study will be one of the available choices for soft tissue enlargement and cosmetic fillers because of its noninvasive in collection and implantation process. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 1684–1694, 2019.
Polarizable force field parameterization and theoretical simulations of ThCl4–LiCl molten salts
Authors: Liu Jian‐Biao , Chen Xin , Lu Jun‐Bo , Cui Hong‐Qiang , Li Jun
Published: October 2018

Recycle of thorium is an essential process in the thorium‐uranium closed fuel cycle of molten salt reactor (MSR). Pyrochemical treatment of spent nuclear fuel using chloride molten salts as medium has been considered as a promising method. In this article, we performed molecular dynamics simulations on the ThCl4LiCl molten salts using a polarizable force field parameterized by us from first‐principles calculations. The microscopic structures and macroscopic properties at different compositions were investigated using the developed force field to understand the structure/property relationship in the mixture. The differences between ThCl4LiCl and ThF4LiF MSs are compared to understand the behaviors of Th4+ in the fluoride‐chloride mixed media. In the molten fluorides, the coordination number of Th4+ is larger, and the resulting more shared anions lead to lower ThF dissociation barrier and shorter lifetime of the Th4+ first solvation shell. Our results also indicate the Pauling's structural rules for crystals can be used to rationalize the local structures in molten salts. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
rhOver: Determination of magnetic anisotropy and related properties for dysprosium(III) single‐ion magnets by semiempirical approaches utilizing Hartree–Fock wave functions
Authors: Böhme Michael , Plass Winfried
Published: October 2018

Dysprosium(III) ions are promising candidates for the design of single‐ion magnets (SIMs) as they show an intrinsic strong magnetic anisotropy. However, time‐demanding multireference methods are usually necessary to reproduce low‐lying magnetic states. In this work, we present an improved wave function‐based semiempirical ligand‐field (LF) theory approach to obtain magnetochemical properties of dysprosium(III)‐based SIMs. We reduce the computational effort by replacing the central dysprosium(III) ion with either yttrium(III) or lutetium(III), which allows to obtain a closed‐shell wave function from Hartree–Fock calculations. The wave function is subsequently used to determine a so‐called diamagnetic–electrostatic pseudo‐potential (DEPP) of the compound, which in turn can be applied to LF theory to obtain magnetochemical properties. The presented approach is tested against ab initio CASSCF/RASSI‐SO reference calculations and shows accurate prediction of magnetic anisotropy axes and a significant accuracy improvement as compared to point charge‐based LFT methods. In addition, we also introduce an improved electrostatic (IES) approach, which applies the obtained DEPPs to a known electrostatic method introduced by Chilton et al. (Nat. Commun. 2013, 4, 2551) to obtain the direction of the main anisotropy axis in dysprosium(III)‐based SIMs. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photoelectron spectrum of NO2−: SAC‐CI gradient study of vibrational‐rotational structures
Authors: Miyahara Tomoo , Nakatsuji Hiroshi
Published: October 2018

Three‐dimensional accurate potential energy surfaces around the local minima of NO2− and NO2 were calculated with the SAC/SAC‐CI analytical energy gradient method. Therefrom, the ionization photoelectron spectra of NO2−, the equilibrium geometries and adiabatic electron affinity of NO2, and the vibrational frequencies including harmonicity and anharmonicity of NO2− and NO2 were obtained. The calculated electron affinity was in reasonable agreement with the experimental value. The SAC‐CI photoelectron spectra of NO2− at 350 K and 700 K including the rotational effects were calculated using the Franck–Condon approximation. The theoretical spectra reproduced well the fine experimental photoelectron spectra observed by Ervin et al. (J. Phys. Chem. 1988, 92, 5405). The results showed that the ionizations from many vibrational excited states as well as the vibrational ground state are included in the experimental photoelectron spectra especially at 700 K and that the rotational effects are important to reproduce the experimental photoelectron spectra of both temperatures. The SAC/SAC‐CI theoretical results supported the analyses of the spectra by Ervin et al., except that we could show some small contributions from the asymmetric‐stretching mode of NO2−. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The SEM electron‐mirror effect in human tooth and synthetic hydroxyapatite samples
Authors: Reyes‐Gasga José , Rodríguez‐Torres José Antonio , Vargas‐Becerril Nancy , Moreno‐Rios Marisa , Rodríguez‐Gómez Arturo , García‐García Ramiro
Published: October 2018

The characteristics of the electron‐mirror effect (EME) image depend on both the scanning electron microscope parameters and the sample's physical properties. The behavior of human tooth (dentin and enamel) and synthetic hydroxyapatite samples submitted to the EME procedure is presented in this work. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and epoxy resin, two good EME producers, were used for comparison. A distorted EME image was observed in the obtained dentin's surface, but enamel and synthetic hydroxyapatite surfaces did not produce the EME. After ex situ calcination treatments of the teeth at 700 and 1,200°C, the EME was observed in dentin, enamel, and synthetic hydroxyapatite, but highly deformed EME images were produced. We show that these last observations are the result of the well‐known charge‐edge effect. After EME analysis, the calculated dielectric constant was 8.7 for dentin and 3.8 for PET.

Research Highlights

Electron‐mirror effect (EME) was observed in dentin but not in enamel or synthetic hydroxyapatite.

Highly deformed EME images are produced in all samples after calcination at above 700°C.

For dentin the calculated dielectric constant was 8.7 and for PET is was 3.8.
Sensilla on organs of female and male Aphidius gifuensis (Hymenoptera: Aphidiidae)
Authors: Wu Wei , Shen Sifan , Wang Chao , Fan Xiaohong , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Sufang
Published: October 2018

Aphidius gifuensis Ashmaed parasitizes several species of aphids that cause economic damage to globally important crops; however, the mechanism of host location in this species is unclear. Here, we studied the sensory system in A. gifuensis to explore the likely mechanisms of host location that could be useful in the improved application of this species in aphid biological control programs. We used scanning electron microscopy to observe the external morphologies of the sensilla recorded from the entire body of female and male A. gifuensis. We recorded 16–18 segments and five types of sensilla on female antennae, including Böhm bristle, Chaetica sensillum, basiconic sensillum, trichoid sensillum, and placodea sensillum. The male antennae consisted of 18–20 segments, and distribution of sensilla was similar to female antennae with minor differences. No hole on the surface or tip of the sensilla was observed. Interestingly, scattered pores around the TS were found on the entire body of females, but only from the antennae, abdomen, and thoracic legs in males. TS was the most abundant and widely distributed sensillum. Tympana structures were found on antennae and femur of thoracic legs. Antenna cleaner was found on the tibia of propodeum and wing cleaner was found on the tibia of metapedes. Special crevice‐shaped structures were found on the abdomen in both sexes, whereas strip‐shaped structures were found only on the abdomen of females. Possible functions of the sensilla in relation to their morphologies are discussed.
Prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in primary care patients with hypertension
Authors: Hamano Jun , Tokuda Yasuharu
Published: October 2018

Background

As the number of patients with hypertension who have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) might be underestimated, this study aimed to explore the prevalence of OSA and develop a diagnostic algorithm for moderate or severe OSA among primary care (PC) patients with hypertension.

Methods

This multicenter cross‐sectional study enrolled patients diagnosed with hypertension aged 18 years or older in Japan from October 2012 to September 2014.

Results

Forty‐nine patients (64.5%) had 22 or more obstructive respiratory events during sleep.

Conclusions

The prevalence of OSA among PC patients with hypertension might be much higher than previously thought.
A review of the monkeypox virus and a recent outbreak of skin rash disease in Nigeria
Authors: Kabuga Auwal I. , El Zowalaty Mohamed E.
Published: October 2018

Since the eradication of smallpox approximately 39 years ago, monkeypox virus remains the most pathogenic poxvirus, being mainly restricted to Central and West Africa. Before 1970, there were no reports of human monkeypox in Nigeria, while between 1971 and 1978 there were three cases, with none having been reported thereafter. However, in September 2017, a case of contagious skin rash disease, typical of monkeypox, was observed in an 11‐year‐old boy from the southern part of the country and confirmed to be associated with the monkeypox virus. This large outbreak consisted of 262 suspected, 115 confirmed cases, and 7 mortalities across 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The aim of this manuscript is to provide an updated, comprehensive, and timely review of monkeypox, an important emerging infection in Nigeria. Monkeypox is now a major threat to global health security, requiring an urgent multidisciplinary approach involving veterinarians, physicians, virologists, and public health experts to fast‐track the development of diagnostic assays, vaccines, antivirals, and other control strategies.
Association of polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor gene with severity of hand, foot, and mouth disease caused by enterovirus 71
Authors: Li Ya‐Ping , Deng Hui‐Ling , Xu Li‐Hong , Wang Mu‐Qi , Li Mei , Zhang Xin , Dang Shuang‐Suo
Published: October 2018

Severe hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is sometimes associated with critical complications that can cause substantial child mortality. Activity of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) may influence the outcomes of enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection. This case‐control study aimed to assess the association of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene encoding the VDR with the severity of EV71‐associated HFMD. We selected four VDR SNPs based on linkage disequilibrium and functional prediction, and we tested them using the SNPscan multiple SNP typing method for potential association with severity of EV71‐associated HFMD. We found a significant association in the case of rs11574129 (G vs A: odds ratio (OR), 0.3439; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.1778‐0.6653) and rs739837 (T vs G: OR, 0.5580; 95%CI, 0.3352‐0.9291). Our results suggest that these two SNPs may influence the severity of EV71‐associated HFMD.
Reorienting job crafting research: A hierarchical structure of job crafting concepts and integrative review
Authors: Zhang Fangfang , Parker Sharon K.
Published: October 2018

Two dominant perspectives of job crafting—the original theory from Wrzesniewski and Dutton () and the job demands resources perspective from Tims, Bakker, and Derks ()—remain separate in research. To synthesize these perspectives, we propose a three‐level hierarchical structure of job crafting, and we identify the aggregate/superordinate nature of each major job crafting construct. The first level of the structure is job crafting orientation, or approach versus avoidance crafting, which we argue is an essential yet often neglected distinction in the literature. We address the debate surrounding cognitive crafting and identify crafting form (behavioral versus cognitive crafting) as the next hierarchical level of constructs. Finally, we concur that job resources and job demands, or crafting content, capture different ways that individuals craft their jobs. Using this integrated hierarchical structure, we were able to review antecedents and outcomes from both perspectives. We show, for example, that approach crafting in its behavioral form is very similar to other proactive behaviors in the way it functions, suggesting a need for closer synthesis with the broader proactive literature, whereas avoidance crafting appears to be less proactive and often dysfunctional. On the basis of our review, we develop a road map for future research.
Feather degradation by keratinolytic bacteria and biofertilizing potential for sustainable agricultural production
Authors: Tamreihao K. , Mukherjee Saikat , Khunjamayum Rakhi , Devi Laishram Jaya , Asem Roshan Singh , Ningthoujam Debananda S.
Published: October 2018

Feathers account for 5–7% of the total weight of chicken have become one of the major pollutants due to their recalcitrant nature. Feather which is constituted of 90% keratin can be a good source of peptides, amino acids, and minerals for use as organic fertilizer. Traditional feather degradation methods consume large amount of energy and reduces the overall quality of the proteins. However, degradation of keratin by keratinolytic bacteria may represent as an alternative for the development of cheap, cost effective, eco‐friendly, and easily available nitrogen (N) and minerals rich source as potential organic fertilizers. Keratinase enzymes from bacteria are serine‐type proteases showing optimal activity at pH 6 to 9 and 30 to 50 °C. Mechanism of degradation includes, sulfitolysis, proteolysis, followed by deamination. Keratinolytic bacteria showing antagonism against important plant pathogens may act as biocontrol agent. Feather hydrolyzate can also be employed as nitrogenous fertilizers for plant growth. Tryptophan release from the feather degradation can act as precursor for plant phytohormone, indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA). Solubilization of inorganic phosphate (P) by keratinolytic bacteria may further elevate the growth of plant. Application of hydrolyzate increases the water holding capacity, N, carbon (C) and mineral content of the soil. It elevates protein, amino acids, and chlorophyll content of plant. Feather hydrolyzate enhances seed germination and growth of plant. Soil application further increases the population of beneficial bacteria. The use of keratinolytic bacteria having antagonistic and plant growth promoting activities, and feather hydrolyzate can emerge as sustainable and alternative tools to promote and improve organic farming, agro‐ecosystem, environment, human health, and soil biological activities.
The interannual variability of wind energy resources across China and its relationship to large‐scale circulation changes
Authors: Yu Lejiang , Zhong Shiyuan , Bian Xindi , Heilman Warren E.
Published: October 2018

This study investigates the interannual variability of wind energy resources across China and how it changes with season by applying empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analyses to gridded wind data from the Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR) from January 1979 through December 2011. The first EOF mode (EOF1) represents between 22% variance for winter and 29% for summer. Spatially, the variation is largely consistent across China for summer and autumn and almost opposite between north and south for spring and winter, and the strongest variation in all seasons is found over Inner Mongolia and Tibet. The second EOF mode (EOF2) represents between 13% variance for autumn and 16% for spring, and is largely dominated by a sharp contrast between Inner Mongolia and Tibet for all seasons. The EOF1 appears to be linked statistically to the pacific decadal oscillation for summer and autumn and to the Pacific North American pattern for spring and winter, while the EOF2 seems to be connected to the Arctic Oscillation for spring and winter and to an interdecadal variability for summer and autumn. The anomalous wind fields associated with these large‐scale circulation patterns modify the climatological wind fields in different ways that lead to an increase or a decrease of the 80‐m winds in different regions of China.
Ranking crop species using mixed treatment comparisons
Authors: Albert Isabelle , Makowski David
Published: October 2018

The mixed treatment comparison (MTC) method has been proposed to combine results across trials comparing several treatments. MTC allows coherent judgments on which of the treatments is the most effective. It produces estimates of the relative effects of each treatment compared with every other treatment by pooling direct and indirect evidence. In this article, we explore how this methodological framework can be used to rank a large number of agricultural crop species from yield data collected in field experiments. Our approach is illustrated in a meta‐analysis of yield data obtained in 67 field studies for 36 different bioenergy crop species. The considered dataset defines a network of comparisons of crop species. We introduce several Bayesian MTC models based on baseline treatment contrasts and evaluate the practical advantages of these models to produce yield ratio estimates. We explore the consistency of some estimates by node‐splitting and compare our results to those obtained with a classical two‐way linear mixed model. Results reveal that the model showing the lowest deviance information criterion (DIC) includes both study random effects and study‐specific residual variances. But all the tested models including study random effects lead to similar yield ratio estimates. The proposed Bayesian framework allows an in‐depth analysis of the uncertainty in the species ranking.
Clinical significance of isolated tumor cells and micrometastasis in low‐grade, stage I endometrial cancer
Authors: Piedimonte Sabrina , Richer Lara , Souhami Luis , Arseneau Jocelyne , Fu Lili , Gilbert Lucy , Alfieri Joanne , Jardon Kris , Zeng Xing Ziggy
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Ultrastaging in endometrial cancer (EC) led to increased detection of isolated tumor cells (ITC, ≤0.2 mm) and micrometastases (MM, 0.2‐2 mm), with unclear effect on prognosis. Our aim was to characterize the impact of ITC and MM on the outcome of these patients.

Methods

Grade 1 to 2 stage I endometrioid EC patients with nodal ITC (n = 11) or MM (n = 12) between 2012 and 2018 were retrospectively compared to a matched group of lymph node negative (n = 18) patients based on age, body mass index, grade, myometrial invasion, and lymphovascular space invasion (LVI) status using propensity score analysis (1:1). Mann‐Whitney U tests were performed on continuous variables and χ2 tests on categorical variables. Progression‐free survival (PFS) was the main endpoint.

Results

All MM and 81% of ITC had LVI. More ITC/MM patients received RT and chemotherapy (91.7% vs 18.4%; 70.8% vs 4.5%, respectively; P < 0.01) without significant difference in treatment‐related toxicities (25% vs 27.3% grade 1%‐2% and 20.8% vs 9.1% grade 2‐3; P = 0.538) or PFS (29.2 vs 25 months; P = 0.828). Two distant recurrences occurred in MM patients after 2.5 years; one lung and one para‐aortic lymph node.

Conclusion

With adjuvant treatment, ITC/MM in otherwise well‐differentiated stage I endometrial cancer have similar outcomes to matched LN− patients.
Simultaneous determination of broflanilide and its metabolites in five typical Chinese soils by a modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe method with ultra high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: An Xiaokang , Xu Jun , Dong Fengshou , Liu Xingang , Wu Xiaohu , Wang Ran , Zheng Yongquan
Published: October 2018

An efficient and sensitive analytical method for simultaneous determination of trace amounts of a new insecticide broflanilide and its metabolites (S(PFH‐OH)‐8007 and DM‐8007) residues in five typical Chinese soils (red soil, black soil, fluvo‐aquic soil, cinnamon soil and paddy soil) was developed. The samples were prepared by a modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe method. The determination of broflanilide and its metabolites was conducted by ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry with an electrospray ionization source in the positive ion mode. This is the first report for the determination of broflanilide and its metabolites in different soils. Broflanilide and its metabolites were extracted from all soils with acetonitrile and purified by a mixture of primary secondary amine and graphitized carbon black. The average recoveries of the three compounds in five types of soil ranged from 85.3 to 111.8% and the relative standard deviations were less than 13.6%. The limit of quantification was 0.1 μg/kg for all three compounds. This method was successfully used to determine broflanilide and its metabolites in five types of soil. The method was validated to be simple and effective for the determination of trace residual broflanilide and its metabolites in five types of soil.
Radical Copolymerization of N‐Vinylformamide with Methylvinylketone: An Approach to Iminium/Imine Ring Containing Polymers
Authors: Walther Tina , Seifert Andreas , Hähnle Hans‐Joachim , Hamers Christoph , Spange Stefan
Published: October 2018

The free radical copolymerization of N‐vinylformamide (NVF) with methylvinylketone in water and the subsequent alkaline or acidic hydrolysis produce iminium structures containing polymers. It can be concluded from the copolymerization parameters (rN

‐vinylformamide = 0.02, r
methylvinylketone = 0.50) that alternating copolymers are formed which contain few amounts with statistically arranged monomer sequences. The acidic hydrolysis of the copolymer results in a water‐soluble polymer bearing five‐membered iminium rings along the polymer chain. A water‐insoluble polymer is generated under alkaline conditions also containing five‐membered imine rings. The formation of the iminium ring polymer is attributed to the fact that generated free amino groups derived from NVF immediately react with the keto groups in the vicinity. The molecular structures of the obtained polymers are characterized by 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and IR spectroscopy. The assignment of the signals in the novel polymers are confirmed by model compounds.
Microwave analog filter‐based modulators for partial response signals
Authors: Cimoli Bruno , Johansen Tom Keinicke , Vegas Olmos Juan José
Published: October 2018

Partial response (PR) modulations boost the spectral efficiency of baseband signals by introducing controlled intersymbol interference. In this paper, we report design guidelines for PR modulators based on analog filters. Moreover, we designed and manufactured filter prototypes following the proposed guidelines. Measurements confirm that the prototypes can modulate up to 5 levels PR signals at 10 Gbps.
Caring for the ALS patient today: Are we under‐utilizing our available clinical tools?
Authors: Pattee Gary L.
Published: October 2018

See article on pages 168–173 in this issue.
Classification of needle‐EMG resting potentials by machine learning
Authors: Nodera Hiroyuki , Osaki Yusuke , Yamazaki Hiroki , Mori Atsuko , Izumi Yuishin , Kaji Ryuji
Published: October 2018

Introduction: The diagnostic importance of audio signal characteristics in needle electromyography (EMG) is well established. Given the recent advent of audio‐sound identification by artificial intelligence, we hypothesized that the extraction of characteristic resting EMG signals and application of machine learning algorithms could help classify various EMG discharges. Methods: Data files of 6 classes of resting EMG signals were divided into 2‐s segments. Extraction of characteristic features (384 and 4,367 features each) was used to classify the 6 types of discharges using machine learning algorithms. Results: Across 841 audio files, the best overall accuracy of 90.4% was observed for the smaller feature set. Among the feature classes, mel‐frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCC)‐related features were useful in correct classification. Conclusions: We showed that needle EMG resting signals were satisfactorily classifiable by the combination of feature extraction and machine learning, and this can be applied to clinical settings. Muscle Nerve 59:224–228, 2019
Multiresolution strategies for the modeling of composite shell structures based on the variable separation method
Authors: Vidal P. , Gallimard L. , Polit O.
Published: October 2018

We are interested in the layer‐wise modeling of composite cylindrical shell structures based on a variable separation method. The present study is focused on the use of a multiresolution strategy to decrease the computational cost of numerous analyses where some parameters can change. For this purpose, the displacement field is approximated as a sum of separated functions of the in‐plane coordinates and the transverse coordinate. Thus, an iterative process that consists of solving a two‐dimensional (2D) and a one‐dimensional problem successively at each iteration is required. In the thickness direction, a fourth‐order expansion in each layer is considered. For the in‐plane description, a classical finite element method is used. In our framework of a multiresolution process, once a first computation is achieved, the previously built 2D functions can be used. Thus, the following problems to be solved can be limited to a one‐dimensional problem. If needed, only few 2D functions might be built. The approach is assessed through mechanical tests on L‐angle specimens by comparing with a quasi–three‐dimensional layer‐wise approach. It is illustrated by varying the geometry and the stacking sequences of the shell.
Revolution in Industrial Image Processing
Authors: Stiefenhöfer Peter , Keppler Peter
Published: October 2018

Embedded vision has been the trend topic in the industry for some time now. Rarely in the past has a vision technology been ascribed so much change potential. A large number of exciting possible uses for embedded vision systems already exist in virtually all branches of industry and daily life. But will this technology really lead to a complete upheaval in machine vision?
Stereo Applications Need a Dedicated Lens Choosing
Authors: Simon Stephanie
Published: October 2018

Stereo cameras perceive the world in a manner similar to humans; this similarity allows machines using stereo technology to perform and interact like human partners. Robots equipped with a stereo camera can grasp objects autonomously, without the need for additional sensors or lights. Autonomous cars can have the ability to detect a human crossing the street and accurately determine their distance from the moving car, and their walking speed. The selection of the correct lens for a stereo application is much more important than for a setup with a single camera. The position and perspective of each camera with respect to the other determines the system's accuracy. Environmental parameters require consideration, in addition to temperature, shock, and vibration.
A Challenge for Systems Design
Authors: Platz Andreas
Published: October 2018

Integration of a coaxial light into the imaging lens saves contruction space and decreases the price. Furthermore, the design of telecentric lenses enables a parallel collimated illumination which simplifies measurement tasks, e.g., the detection of surface defects.
Smart Line Scan Measurement Systems
Authors: Halbach Guido , Oechsner Ulrich
Published: October 2018

Current industrial machine vision applications mostly rely on PC‐based image processing. Smart camera systems, which incorporate an image sensor and computing capabilities, were initially restricted to very simple tasks like barcode reading and interpretation. But as the computing capabilities of embedded systems increased, smart cameras are now able to handle a wide range of applications.
Photonic Design, Verification, and Implementation
Authors: Gonzalez Ana , Pozo Jose
Published: October 2018

The requirement of different sectors such as healthcare, telecommunications, and industry for new systems that will provide higher performance and lower foot‐print has triggered the development of many new photonic‐based solutions. A key aspect of the development of an optical system is the design and verification before its production to reduce failure and, as consequence, the time‐to‐market. There are commercial software solutions able to simulate and to analyze the packaging of optical systems, photonic integrated circuits (PICs) based devices, transmission systems & networks, and fiber‐optic lasers & amplifiers. Also, it is possible to take into account thermal and mechanical issues by multiphysics simulations. In this article, we explore the different available solutions to simulate your optical design before the production at the component level including free‐form optics and photonic integrated circuits (PICs) and also at the system level.
3 Approaches Show: Fiber Lasers Prepared for E‐Mobility
Authors: Wanke Nikolaus
Published: October 2018

E‐mobility contains all the characteristics of a huge global trend. E‐mobility is supported by politics, new technologies, products, services, and the people who are showing an increased acceptance and interest for cleaner mobility possibilities, e.g. e‐bicycles, ‐motorcycles, ‐scooters, ‐cars etc. The mega trend provides opportunities, requires changes, creates challenges, and is defined primarily by the electric powertrain. The e‐mobility industry embodies modern automated manufacturing plants, an environmentally friendly approach, and a high competitive pressure between the well‐known brands and the new market participants. Competitive pressures drive the need for modernized machinery and plant engineering as well as advanced material processes. These material processes need to be fast, reliable, flexible, environmentally friendly and therefore energy efficient. Fiber lasers meet these requirements. IPG Photonics, developer and manufacturer of high‐performance fiber lasers, offers several different solutions and possibilities for the mechanical and plant engineering. The wide range of IPG products enable customized solutions for the e‐mobility manufacturer, at the same time meeting the requirements of the fourth industrial revolution, the so‐called Industry 4.0.
Fast Laser Beam Characterization
Authors: Dini Christian , Bünting Andreas , Brčina Mladen
Published: October 2018

The power‐to‐weight ratio plays a key role in automotive construction: the lighter the powertrain components of the car or truck, the more efficient the vehicle. Moreover, it significantly cuts emissions and fuel consumption. And engineers are always striving to eliminate parts that are at higher risk of wear and tear. With these goals in mind, automotive experts at Daimler have successfully optimized the design and assembly of their differential gears, substituting bolted joints with laser welds (Fig.1). Not only has this reduced the mass of each part by over 15 percent, the new procedure requires no rework of the parts, and it has also brought down losses due to splashing of nuts and bolts through the oil reservoir of the differential gear during operation. In order to meet the stringent standards that Daimler is committed to, the company implemented a digital process chain to guarantee and document all relevant quality parameters. One key feature thereof is the non‐contact, automated characterization of process laser beams using Ophir's BeamWatch Integrated.
Seeing Things in a New Light
Authors: Pelaprat Jean‐Michel , Finuf Matthew , Fritz Robert , Zediker Mark
Published: October 2018

Nuburu has introduced a new high‐power blue laser that brings unmatched performance to many materials processing applications. Lasers are capable of delivering high energy density with pinpoint precision. The energy can be delivered without physical contact between the components of the laser and any material to be worked. These characteristics suit lasers for many materials processing applications – perhaps none more well‐suited than laser welding. Common industrial lasers are high‐power infrared (IR) systems operating at wavelengths around 10.6 μm or around 1 μm, or low‐ to moderate‐power green light systems operating at a wavelength around 532 nm. The capabilities of these systems are constrained by either the physics of the interaction (in the case of infrared lasers) or the cost and technological capability of the laser (in the case of green lasers). Nuburu's AO‐150 laser puts out a 150‐watt high‐quality beam of 450 nm laser light that brings game‐changing capabilities to laser welding and other industrial applications.
Secondary phase formation and surface modification from a high dose KF‐post deposition treatment of (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se2solar cell absorbers
Authors: Donzel‐Gargand Olivier , Larsson Fredrik , Törndahl Tobias , Stolt Lars , Edoff Marika
Published: October 2018

In this study, we assessed the potential of KF‐post deposition treatment (PDT) performed on a silver‐alloyed Cu (In,Ga)Se2(ACIGS) solar absorber. ACIGS absorbers with Ag/Ag + Cu ratio (Ag/I) close to 20% were co‐evaporated on a Mo‐coated glass substrate and exposed toin‐situKF‐PDT of various intensities.

The current–voltage characteristics indicated that an optimized PDT can be beneficial, increasing in our study themedianVocand efficiency values by +48 mV and + 0.9%abs(from 728 mV and 16.1% efficiency measured for the sample without PDT), respectively. However, an increased KF‐flux during PDT resulted in a net deterioration of the performance leading tomedianVocand efficiency values as low as 503 mV and 4.7%.

The chemical composition analysis showed that while the reference absorber without any post deposition treatment (PDT) was homogeneous, the KF‐PDT induced a clear change within the first 10 nm from the surface. Here, the surface layer composition was richer in K and In with an increased Ag/I ratio, and its thickness seemed to follow the KF exposure intensity. Additionally, high‐dose KF‐PDT resulted in substantial formation of secondary phases for the ACIGS. The secondary phase precipitates were also richer in Ag, K, and In, and electron and X‐ray diffraction data match with the monoclinic C 1 2/c 1 space group adopted by the Ag‐alloyed KInSe2phase. It could not be concluded whether the performance loss for the solar cell devices originated from the thicker surface layer or the presence of secondary phases, or both for the high‐dose KF‐PDT sample.