bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An advanced analytical neuro–space mapping technique with sensitivity analysis for transistor modeling
Authors: Zhu Lin , Liu Kaihua , Liu Wenyuan , Zhang Qi‐jun , Wu Haifeng , Ma Yongtao , Peng Bo
Published: November 2016

This paper presents an advanced analytical neuro–space mapping (neuro‐SM) technique for accurate and efficient modeling of transistor devices. This is an improvement over the existing neuro‐SM, which aims to use neural networks to map a given approximate device model towards an accurate model. The proposed neuro‐SM retains the ability of the existing neuro‐SM in modifying the voltage relationship between the given approximate device model and the accurate model. The proposed technique can also map the current relationship between the given model and the accurate model. In this way, the proposed neuro‐SM can produce improved accuracy over the existing neuro‐SM. In addition, analytical formulas of mapping and sensitivities of the direct current, small‐signal S parameter, and large‐signal harmonic of the proposed neuro‐SM model with respect to mapping parameters and coarse‐model parameters are also derived. The sensitivity analysis can be used with a gradient‐based training technique to improve the model training efficiency. The validity and efficiency of the proposed approach are verified through 2 transistor modeling examples and use of the proposed neuro‐SM models in a large‐signal behavior analysis of an amplifier.
Study of the two‐dimensional sine‐Gordon equation arising in Josephson junctions using meshless finite point method
Authors: Kamranian Maryam , Dehghan Mehdi , Tatari Mehdi
Published: November 2016

In this paper, the finite point method is discussed for solving the initial‐boundary value problem associated with the sine‐Gordon equation in two‐dimensional domains arising in the Josephson junctions problem. The resulting nonlinear system is solved using an appropriate predictor‐corrector scheme. The proposed scheme is simple and efficient. The collisional properties for cases involving the most known from the bibliography, line, and ring solitons are studied in numerical results. Also the birth of a single Josephson vortex in a Josephson transmission line at a T‐shaped junction is studied.
Genetically modified rodent models of SCA17
Authors: Cui Yiting , Yang Su , Li Xiao‐Jiang , Li Shihua
Published: November 2016

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 17 (SCA17) is a type of autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia (ADCA) characterized by variable manifestations, including cerebellar ataxia, dementia, and psychiatric symptoms. Since the identification of a CAG repeat expansion in the TATA‐box binding protein (TBP) gene in a patient with ataxia in 1999 and then verification of this expansion in patients with SCA17 in 2001, several SCA17 rodent models, including both knock‐in and transgenic models in mice and rats, have been established to explore the phenotypic features and pathogenesis of SCA17. These animal models revealed different pathological changes and phenotypes that are associated with the expression of mutant TBP protein and the CAG repeat lengths. It is important to understand how mutant TBP can cause differential pathological events in SCA17 animal models. In this review, we summarize and compare these animal models for the nature of transgenes and their expression as well as phenotypical features. We also discuss potential directions for future studies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessing seasonal variation of near surface air temperature lapse rate across India
Authors: Ojha Richa
Published: November 2016

Precise characterization of surface air temperature at different spatial scales remains a challenge as it often requires a dense network of temperature sensors. The most common approach for estimating surface air temperature at a desired location in hydrological and terrestrial models is to interpolate surface air temperature observations obtained from a sparse set‐up of temperature sensors using the global standard uniform lapse rate. This interpolation technique, though easy to use, can lead to unreliable results, as the global standard uniform lapse rate may not be representative of seasonal and local variations in lapse rate. In this study, linear and nonlinear regression relationships are derived to estimate mean minimum, mean and mean maximum near surface air temperatures (at monthly and annual time scales) across India. The normal daily air temperature data from 439 stations and their corresponding latitude, longitude and elevation are used in the analysis. The computed temperature gradients exhibit seasonal variation. The effects of elevation and longitude are more pronounced in pre‐monsoon (March–May) and post‐monsoon (October–November) months, whereas the effects of latitude are more in winter months (December–February). Results indicate that the global standard uniform lapse rate (− 0.65 ° C 100 m− 1) is only applicable for monthly mean maximum temperature for April and May. The highest interpolation reliability is obtained for monthly mean minimum temperature. The regression equations though simple, hold promise for describing surface air temperature across India.
Tracking high molecular weight polymer interdiffusion on a SERS‐based platform
Authors: Mana Carla D. , Tomba J. Pablo
Published: November 2016

We describe the implementation of an experimental setup based on Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) to investigate polymer interdiffusion. Ultra‐thin bilayer films of deuterated polystyrene (dPS) and polystyrene (PS) are placed in contact onto SERS‐active gold substrates with inverted square‐base pyramidal geometry and subsequently annealed. Initially, the Raman spectrum shows only spectral features of the polymer adjacent to the substrate. Upon annealing, Raman bands of the polymer located far from the substrate start to emerge, an indication of chain diffusion into the substrate hotspot and mixing between polymer layers. The kinetics of the process is consistent with transport of polymer chains in nanometer scale, with diffusion coefficients in the range 10−13 – 10−15 cm2/s. The temperature response of the process is characterized by an activation energy of 48.93 ± 1.5 kcal/mol, in excellent agreement with earlier experiments. SERS experiments provide a powerful and reliable experimental platform to characterize polymer interdiffusion without the need of chemical labeling, with several prospective applications to the study of chain dynamics in advanced polymer‐based nanocomposite materials. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nomogram for predicting central node metastasis in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Kim Seo Ki , Chai Young Jun , Park Inhye , Woo Jung‐Woo , Lee Jun Ho , Lee Kyu Eun , Choe Jun‐Ho , Kim Jung‐Han , Kim Jee Soo
Published: November 2016

Background

There was a difficulty for detecting Central lymph node metastasis (CLNM) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to design a nomogram for predicting CLNM.

Methods

A total of 10,763 PTC patients who underwent total thyroidectomy with central neck dissection (CND) in Samsung Medical Center were randomly assigned to the training set (n = 7,535) and to the internal validation set (n = 3,228). And, a total of 2,514 PTC patients who underwent total thyroidectomy with CND at Seoul National University Hospital were assigned to the external validation set.

Results

The values of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve in the training set, internal validation set, and external validation set were 0.721 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.709–0.732), 0.706 (95%CI, 0.688–0.724), and 0.706 (95%CI, 0.685–0.727), respectively.

Conclusions

We recommend the use of our nomogram to enable clinicians and patients to easily personalize and quantify the probability of CLNM during the both pre‐ and postoperative period. Clinicians may consider the prophylactic CND and meticulous postoperative evaluation in PTC patients with a high nomogram score. J. Surg. Oncol. 2017;115:266–272. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In situ solvent formation microextraction combined with magnetic dispersive micro‐solid‐phase extraction for the determination of benzoylurea insecticides in water samples
Authors: Zhang Ying , Yang Xiaoling , Wang Jiankang , Zhou Wenfeng , Lu Runhua , Gao Haixiang , Zhang Sanbing
Published: November 2016

A simple, fast, effective, and environmentally friendly method, in situ solvent formation microextraction combined with magnetic dispersive micro‐solid‐phase extraction for the determination of four benzoylurea insecticides is presented herein for the first time. In the proposed method, 1‐hexyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis[(trifluoromethane)sulfonyl]imide was formed by the reaction between 1‐hexyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride and lithium bis[(trifluoromethane)sulfonyl]imide and was used to extract benzoylurea insecticides. Then magnetic nanoparticles were added as carrier to retrieve and separate the ionic liquid from the sample solution. After the supernatant was removed, the ionic liquid was desorbed using acetonitrile and subsequently injected directly into a high‐performance liquid chromatograph equipped with a variable wavelength detector for analysis. The main factors affecting the extraction efficiency were investigated by a one factor at a time approach. Under optimized conditions, the proposed method showed good repeatability (RSD = 2.2–4.5%) and linearity (2–300 μg/L), with correlation coefficients greater than 0.9994 and low limits of detection (0.67–1.46 μg/L). Finally, the method was successfully applied to the analysis of four benzoylurea insecticides in environmental water samples with good recoveries (73.2–85.8%).
Mediterranean diet–gene interactions: A targeted metabolomics study in Greek‐Cypriot women
Authors: Kakkoura Maria G. , Sokratous Kleitos , Demetriou Christiana A. , Loizidou Maria A. , Loucaides Giorgos , Kakouri Eleni , Hadjisavvas Andreas , Kyriacou Kyriacos
Published: November 2016

Scope

A high adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) was previously associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer (BC) among Greek‐Cypriot women. Additionally, particular polymorphisms were shown to modulate this MD‐BC association. Herein, we aimed to investigate the effect of polymorphisms–MD interactions on the levels of specific metabolites that could be related to dietary adherence or enzymatic activity, which is itself modulated by polymorphisms.

Methods and results

Greek‐Cypriot women who were BC controls and had the lowest or the highest MD adherence (vegetables, fruit, legumes, fish) as assessed by principal component analysis (n = 564) were included. Participants were previously genotyped for nine polymorphisms of the one‐carbon metabolism, oxidative stress, and xenobiotic metabolism. The serum levels of 14 metabolites that are key players in the aforementioned pathways were measured by UPLC‐MS/MS. ANCOVA was used to assess polymorphism–MD interactions on metabolites’ levels within a multivariate linear regression model. Statistically significant interactions between GSTM1 (where GST is glutathione S‐transferase) deletion polymorphism and MD on flavin mononucleotide and on 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate (5‐MTHF) concentrations were observed. The MTHFR rs1801133 interacted significantly with MD on 5‐MTHF concentration.

Conclusion

Serum levels of flavin mononucleotide and 5‐MTHF were shown to be influenced by interactions between GSTM1 deletion or MTHFR (rs1801133) polymorphisms and a dietary pattern, characteristic of MD.
A functional pseudogene, NMRAL2P, is regulated by Nrf2 and serves as a coactivator of NQO1 in sulforaphane‐treated colon cancer cells
Authors: Johnson Gavin S. , Li Jia , Beaver Laura M. , Dashwood W. Mohaiza , Sun Deqiang , Rajendran Praveen , Williams David E. , Ho Emily , Dashwood Roderick H.
Published: November 2016

Scope

The anticancer agent sulforaphane (SFN) acts via multiple mechanisms to modulate gene expression, including the induction of nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (Nrf2)‐dependent signaling and the inhibition of histone deacetylase activity. Transcriptomics studies were performed in SFN‐treated human colon cancer cells and in nontransformed colonic epithelial cells in order to pursue new mechanistic leads.

Methods and results

RNA‐sequencing corroborated the expected changes in cancer‐related pathways after SFN treatment. In addition to NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1) and other well‐known Nrf2‐dependent targets, SFN strongly induced the expression of Loc344887. This noncoding RNA was confirmed as a novel functional pseudogene for NmrA‐like redox sensor 1, and was given the name NmrA‐like redox sensor 2 pseudogene (NMRAL2P). Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments corroborated the presence of Nrf2 interactions on the NMRAL2P genomic region, and interestingly, NMRAL2P also served as a coregulator of NQO1 in human colon cancer cells. Silencing of NMRAL2P via CRISPR/Cas9 genome‐editing protected against SFN‐mediated inhibition of cancer cell growth, colony formation, and migration.

Conclusion

NMRAL2P is the first functional pseudogene to be identified both as a direct transcriptional target of Nrf2, and as a downstream regulator of Nrf2‐dependent NQO1 induction. Further studies are warranted on NMRAL2P‐Nrf2 crosstalk and the associated mechanisms of gene regulation.
Analytical prediction of aggregates' effects on the ITZ volume fraction and Young's modulus of concrete
Authors: Zouaoui R. , Miled K. , Limam O. , Beddey A.
Published: November 2016

In order to evaluate analytically the ITZ volume fraction (fITZ) in concrete, a three phase model is proposed for the random concrete microstructure using the Voronoï tessellation. Within this model, the ITZ local thickness is a statistical variable depending on the local paste thickness available between each couple of neighbouring aggregates. The fITZ is found to not exceed 7% for typical concretes. Then, the concrete Young's modulus is predicted analytically using a four‐phase generalized self consistent model but in which the proposed fITZ is considered. It is found that the concrete Young's modulus increases when increasing aggregates volume fraction, aggregates maximum size and the proportion of coarse aggregates and when decreasing the ITZ thickness and Young's modulus. Finally, the validity of the proposed model is discussed based on a comparison between its predictions and three sets of experimental results related to normal and high strength concretes taken from literature. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Genealogy of the Genealogical Method: Discoveries, Disseminations and the Historiography of British Anthropology1
Authors: Gardner Helen
Published: November 2016

This article explores the origins of the genealogical method of kinship collection and the remembering and forgetting of Indigenous and settler contributors to early anthropology. While W. H. R. Rivers’ development of the genealogical method from the expedition to the Torres Strait in 1898 has iconic status as a foundation moment in the history of anthropology, there is irrefutable evidence that a genealogical method for kinship collection was employed in the Australian colonies from the early 1870s, developed by Gunnai/Kŭrnai man Tulaba with magistrate A. W. Howitt. The article tracks the origins and dissemination of both genealogical methods and the crucial role of Indigenous agency in the development of field practices. It concludes with an analysis of the place of colonial ethnographers and Indigenous authorities in the historiography of British anthropology.
Avoidant conversations about death by clinicians cause delays in reporting of neutropenic sepsis: Grounded theory study
Authors: Oakley Catherine , Taylor Cath , Ream Emma , Metcalfe Alison
Published: November 2016

Background

Evidence suggests that patients delay reporting symptoms of neutropenic sepsis (NS) despite the risk to their life. This study aimed to elicit factors that contribute to delayed patient reporting of NS symptoms.

Methods

A constructivist grounded theory study used observations of chemotherapy consultations (13 h) and 31 in‐depth interviews to explore beliefs, experiences, and behaviors related to NS. Participants included women with breast cancer, their carers (partners, family, or friends), and clinicians. An explanation for patient delays was developed through theoretical sampling of participants to explore emerging areas of interest and through constant comparison of data and their coding. This entailed iterative and concurrent data collection and analysis. Data were collected until saturation.

Results

All patients who developed NS‐type symptoms delayed presenting to hospital (2.5 h‐8 days), sometimes repeatedly. Moderators of delay included metastatic disease, bereavement, fatalism, religious beliefs, and quality of relationships with clinicians. There was an interplay of behaviors between clinicians, patients, and carers where they subconsciously conspired to underplay the seriousness and possibility of NS occurring.

Conclusions

Findings have implications for health risk communication and development of holistic service models.
Advances in quantum control of three‐level superconducting circuit architectures
Authors: Falci G. , Di Stefano P. G. , Ridolfo A. , D'Arrigo A. , Paraoanu G. S. , Paladino E.
Published: November 2016

Advanced control in Lambda (Λ) scheme of a solid state architecture of artificial atoms and quantized modes would allow the translation to the solid‐state realm of a whole class of phenomena from quantum optics, thus exploiting new physics emerging in larger integrated quantum networks and for stronger couplings. However control solid‐state devices has constraints coming from selection rules, due to symmetries which on the other hand yield protection from decoherence, and from design issues, for instance that coupling to microwave cavities is not directly switchable. We present two new schemes for the Λ‐STIRAP control problem with the constraint of one or two classical driving fields being always‐on. We show how these protocols are converted to apply to circuit‐QED architectures. We finally illustrate an application to coherent spectroscopy of the so called ultrastrong atom‐cavity coupling regime.
Spin reorientation transition in Na‐doped BaFe2As2 studied by single‐crystal neutron diffraction
Authors: Waßer Florian , Wurmehl Sabine , Aswartham Saicharan , Sidis Yvan , Park J. T. , Schneidewind Astrid , Büchner Bernd , Braden Markus
Published: November 2016

Several hole‐doped BaFe2As2 compounds were recently shown to exhibit a second magnetic phase transition in the concentration range close to the full suppression of antiferromagnetic (AFM) order. At this additional transition ordered magnetic moments reorient from in‐plane to out‐of‐plane alignment associated with a suppression of the orthorhombic distortion. We have studied the magnetic properties of such a representative hole‐doped system, Ba1–xNaxFe2As2 with 0.25 ≤ x ≤ 0.40, by neutron diffraction on large single crystals. With increasing Na substitution (0.25 ≤ x ≤ 0.39) the AFM transition temperature sharply decreases, while the spin‐reorientation transition temperature is rather constant, until both magnetic phases are completely suppressed at x = 0.40. For all studied Na concentrations the additional transition is related to the spin reorientation, which, however, is complete only in the middle of the concentration range of the out‐of‐plane phase. In the superconducting state, the intensities of magnetic Bragg reflections become heavily suppressed; this effect seems to increase for larger Tc and reaches ∼50% in Ba0.61Na0.39Fe2As2. In samples with coexisting in‐plane and out‐of‐plane ordering, this superconductivity induced suppression of ordered moments is significantly stronger for the out‐of‐plane components indicating that this phase more strongly competes with superconductivity.
Enhancement of photosensitivity in bismuth doped Cu2ZnSnS4 thin films
Authors: Rawat Kusum , Shishodia P. K.
Published: November 2016

In this paper, the effect of bismuth doping on the structural, morphological, optical and electrical properties of Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) films has been investigated. The undoped and bismuth doped CZTS films (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 mol%) were deposited on glass substrates by solution based method. The XRD result shows a significant improvement in the crystallinity of the films with increase in bismuth concentration. The Raman spectra of the films show the dominant peak at 334 cm–1 corresponding to A1 vibrational mode of CZTS kesterite phase. The FESEM micrographs of the films show an enhancement in the grain size and densification with the addition of bismuth ion concentration. The optical bandgap of the films was found to vary (1.59–1.40 eV) with the doping of bismuth ions. The I –V characteristics indicate twofold increment in the photoconductivity for the bismuth doped CZTS films under 100 mW/cm2 illumination suggesting their potential application in photovoltaic devices. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Distributed event‐triggered feedback consensus control with state‐dependent threshold for general linear multi‐agent systems
Authors: Liu Xiangdong , Du Changkun , Lu Pingli , Yang Dapeng
Published: November 2016

This paper considers the distributed event‐triggered consensus problem for multi‐agent systems with general linear dynamics under undirected graphs. Based on state feedback, we propose a novel distributed event‐triggered consensus controller with state‐dependent threshold for each agent to achieve consensus, without continuous communication in either controller update or triggering condition monitoring. Each agent only needs to monitor its own state continuously to determine if the event is triggered. It is proved that there is no Zeno behavior under the proposed consensus control algorithm. To relax the requirement of the state measurement of each agent, we further propose a novel distributed observer‐based event‐triggered consensus controller to solve the consensus problem in the case with output feedback and prove that there is no Zeno behavior exhibited. Finally, simulation results are given to illustrate the theoretical results. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Postcapture robust nonlinear control for tethered space robot with constraints on actuator and velocity of space tether
Authors: Huang Panfeng , Wang Dongke , Zhang Fan , Meng Zhongjie , Liu Zhengxiong
Published: November 2016

Stabilization control is an essential mission for the tethered space robot‐target combination during the postcapture phase of tethered space robot (TSR). In this paper, the stabilization problem of such a tumbling combination is studied. With the consideration of the space tether and the attitude of the TSR's gripper, the dynamic model of the combination is first derived using Lagrange method. Then a robust nonlinear controller for the combination is proposed based on the backstepping control method. Considering the constraint on the velocity of the space tether, command filter method is utilized to guarantee the velocity of the space tether within a permitted range. A feedback term is designed to compensate the saturation of the thruster. Moreover, an adaptive law is designed to estimate the disturbance of parameter uncertainties and this disturbance is compensated in the proposed controller. Numerical simulations suggest that the proposed robust controller can realize the orbit and attitude stabilization of the combination; besides, the velocity of the space tether is effectively constrained and the parameter uncertainties of the combination can be compensated via the adaptive law. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive block‐based pixel value differencing steganography
Authors: Hosam Osama , Ben Halima Nadhir
Published: November 2016

Steganography is the science of hiding secure data in digital carriers such as images and videos. Pixel value differencing (PVD) steganography algorithms embed data into images depending on pixel neighborhood differences. We have proposed PVD scheme for embedding secure data into digital images. The image is divided into non‐overlapping 3 × 3 blocks. The block's median pixel is used as a reference for calculating pixel differences. The distance between the minimum and maximum differences are fine tuned for spreading the secure data on a wide range of image regions with high‐intensity fluctuations. The embedding procedure embeds secure data into the content regions with edges and intensity transitions. Texture images provide higher embedding size compared with regular images. The results showed that the proposed algorithm is successfully able to avoid smooth regions in the embedding process. In addition, the proposed algorithm shows better embedding quality compared with the state of the art PVD approaches especially with low‐embedding rates. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Towards a complete chaotic map‐based mobile RFID authentication protocol with efficient anticollision tag indexing
Authors: Benssalah Mustapha , Djeddou Mustapha , Drouiche Karim
Published: November 2016

Radio frequency identification technology is one of the modern popular emerging technologies proven to advance a wide range of applications in both academia and industry. However, potential security risks, privacy issues, and efficiency are still open challenges that must be addressed seriously to achieve enhanced protection. In this paper, we show that the Akgün et al. protocol remains unsafe and imperfect in terms of the security issue and database identification efficiency. We, first, demonstrate that the Akgün et al. protocol suffers from a stolen/lost reader attack, which could expose users to some life threatening situations and unwanted collection of sensitive private information. Second, we found that all indexing identification‐based protocols and exceptionally the Akgün et al. protocol cannot be used properly when the collision of tag index occurs, which exhibits a low efficiency in the database entry identification process. As the Akgün et al. protocol is almost perfect, it is worthy to be enhanced. Therefore, towards a complete and secure mobile radio frequency identification authentication protocol, we propose efficient solutions that could overcome the aforementioned security problem and offer high identification efficiency using efficient anticollision procedure based on dynamic linked list data structure principle. Via informal and formal security analysis, we show that the improved version is insensitive to the most common attacks and is more efficient than the existing schemes in the literature. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lateral drift constrained structural optimization of an actual supertall building acted by wind load
Authors: Xu An , Sun Wei‐Xing , Zhao Ruo‐Hong , Wu Jiu‐Rong , Ying Wei‐Qin
Published: November 2016

Recent trends towards constructing taller and increasingly slender buildings imply that these structures are more sensitive to wind excitation. This paper presents a technique for the wind‐resistant optimal design of supertall buildings with a complex structural system including concrete‐filled steel tube columns, shear walls, and various types of beams and columns. In each optimal design cycle, the dynamic wind load acting on a building is transformed into a set of multiple‐oriented equivalent static wind loads, which converts the optimal design for a building acted by dynamic loads into a simpler optimal design problem that considers only static loads. The objective function and constraint functions are explicitly formulated for various types of frame and area members, and consequently, the optimal design problem is mathematically modeled. The optimality criteria method is employed to seek a solution to the optimal design problem. A 68‐story actual supertall building with a height of 303 m is considered for a case study. The obtained results show that the presented technique is capable of giving a good numerical optimal solution for practical use. The technique and results obtained from this study are valuable for academic and professional engineers involved in wind engineering and structural design.
Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in predicting birth‐weight discordance in twin pregnancy: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Leombroni M. , Liberati M. , Fanfani F. , Pagani G. , Familiari A. , Buca D. , Manzoli L. , Scambia G. , Rizzo G. , D'Antonio F.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To investigate the diagnostic performance of ultrasound in predicting birth‐weight (BW) discordance in twin pregnancy.

Methods

Electronic databases PubMed, EMBASE and CINAHL were searched using combinations of MeSH terms ‘birth weight’, ‘discordance’, ‘twins’ and ‘ultrasound’. Summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios and diagnostic odds ratios for the predictive accuracy of sonographically estimated fetal‐weight (EFW) discordance and abdominal‐circumference (AC) discordance in predicting BW discordance were computed using hierarchical summary receiver–operating characteristics curves.

Results

Twenty studies (including 5826 twin pregnancies) were included. EFW discordance ≥ 20% had a sensitivity of 65.4% and specificity of 90.8% in predicting BW discordance ≥ 20%. The predictive performance of ultrasound performed within 1 month, 2 weeks and 3 days before birth was 61.4%, 72.3% and 78.9%, respectively. EFW discordance ≥ 25% had a sensitivity of 57.7% and specificity of 95.2% in predicting BW discordance ≥ 25%. The sensitivity of EFW discordance ≥ 25% detected within 1 month, 2 weeks and 3 days before birth was 60.0%, 75.0% and 60.3%, respectively, while the corresponding values for specificity were 97.7%, 96.2% and 87.3%, respectively. In view of the different cut‐offs reported among studies, it was not possible to perform comprehensive data synthesis for each AC discordance cut‐off. The optimal diagnostic performance of AC discordance was for prediction of BW discordance ≥ 25%, with a sensitivity of 70.8% and specificity of 86.4%.

Conclusion

Ultrasound EFW discordance has an overall moderate accuracy in predicting BW discordance in twin pregnancy. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Outcome of monochorionic twin pregnancy with selective intrauterine growth restriction according to umbilical artery Doppler flow pattern of smaller twin: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Buca D. , Pagani G. , Rizzo G. , Familiari A. , Flacco M. E. , Manzoli L. , Liberati M. , Fanfani F. , Scambia G. , D'Antonio F.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To explore the outcome of monochorionic twin pregnancies affected by selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR) according to the umbilical artery Doppler pattern of the smaller twin.

Methods

An electronic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and ClinicalTrials.gov databases (2000–2016) was performed. sIUGR was defined as the presence of one twin with an estimated fetal weight and/or abdominal circumference < 10th or < 5th percentile and classified according to the umbilical artery Doppler flow pattern of the smaller twin (Type I: persistently positive; Type II: persistently absent/reversed; Type III: intermittently absent/reversed). Primary outcomes were perinatal mortality, intrauterine death, neonatal death and double fetal loss. Secondary outcomes were neonatal morbidity, including abnormal postnatal brain imaging, intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, admission to neonatal intensive care unit and respiratory distress syndrome, deterioration of fetal status, gestational age at delivery and degree of birth‐weight discordance. A composite adverse outcome, defined as the presence of any mortality or abnormal brain findings, was also assessed. Quality assessment of the included studies was performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was used to compute the summary odds ratios (ORs), mean differences (MD) and proportions for the different outcomes.

Results

Thirteen studies (610 pregnancies) were included. The risk of perinatal mortality was higher in twins affected by Type II compared with Type I sIUGR (OR, 4.1 (95% CI, 1.6–10.3)), whereas there was no difference among the other variants of growth restriction. Risk of abnormal postnatal brain imaging was significantly higher in twins affected by either Type II (OR, 4.9 (95% CI, 1.9–12.9)) or Type III (OR, 8.2 (95% CI, 2.0–33.1)) sIUGR compared with Type I sIUGR. The risk for neonatal intensive care unit admission was higher in Type II compared with Type I sIUGR (OR, 18.3 (95% CI, 1.0–339.7)). Twin pregnancies affected by Type I sIUGR were delivered at a significantly later gestational age compared with Type II (MD, 2.8 (95% CI, 1.83–3.86) weeks) and Type III (MD, 2.1 (95% CI, 0.97–3.19) weeks). The degree of birth‐weight discordance was higher in Type II compared with Type I (MD, 21.6% (95% CI, 9.9–33.2%)) and Type III (MD, 9.3% (95% CI, 3.8–14.9%)) sIUGR.

Conclusion

Monochorionic twin pregnancies affected by Type II sIUGR are at a higher risk of perinatal mortality and morbidity compared with Type I. The likelihood of an abnormal outcome is usually not significantly different between sIUGR Types II and III, although the latter has an unpredictable clinical course. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Simulating intra‐hourly wind power fluctuations on a power system level
Authors: Olauson Jon , Bergkvist Mikael , Rydén Jesper
Published: November 2016

In wind integration studies, sub‐hourly, load synchronous wind data are often preferable. These datasets can be generated by a hybrid approach, combining hourly measurements or output from meteorological models with a stochastic simulation of the high‐frequency fluctuations. This paper presents a method for simulating aggregated intra‐hourly wind power fluctuations for a power system, taking into account the time‐varying volatility seen in measurements. Some key elements in the modelling were transformations to stationarity, the use of frequency domain techniques including a search for appropriate phase angles and an adjustment of the resulting time series in order to get correct hourly means. Generation data from Denmark and Germany with 5 and 15 min temporal resolution were used for training models. It is shown that the distribution and non‐stationarity of simulated deviations from hourly means closely follow those of measurements. Power spectral densities and step change distributions agree well. Of particular importance is that the results are good also when the training and objective power systems are not the same. The computational cost is low in comparison with other approaches for generating high‐frequency data. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Serum Fatty Acid‐Binding Protein 4 is Increased in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Baran A. , Świderska M. , Bacharewicz‐Szczerbicka Joanna , Myśliwiec H. , Flisiak I.
Published: November 2016

Psoriasis is associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Fatty acid‐binding proteins (FABP) have been recognized as predictors of these systemic disorders. The aim of this study was to assess correlations between levels of serum heart and adipocyte fatty acid‐binding proteins (FABP3, FABP4) and disease severity, indicators of inflammation or metabolic disturbances, and topical treatment in psoriatic patients. Thirty‐seven patients with relapse of plaque‐type psoriasis and 16 healthy volunteers were recruited. Blood samples were collected before and after 14 days of therapy. Serum FABP concentrations were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for correlation with Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), body mass index (BMI), inflammatory or metabolic parameters, and treatment used. The median FABP4 serum levels were significantly increased (p = 0.038) in psoriatic patients, while FABP3 levels did not differ (p = 0.47) compared to the controls. No significant correlations were noted between the proteins and PASI, C‐reactive protein (CRP), BMI, or levels of glucose or lipids. FABP3 significantly correlated with white blood count (p = 0.03) and aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.04). After topical treatment, there was no significant change in serum FABP3 [11.5 (4.9–30.3) vs. 12.9 (3.5–30.3) ng/ml] (p = 0.96), whereas FABP4 was decreased [27,286 (20,344–32,257) vs. 23,034 (18,320–29,874) pg/ml] (p = 0.12), losing its basal significance. FABP4 may be a marker of psoriasis, and FABP3 may be associated with inflammation or liver disorders in psoriatic patients. FABP do not appear to be useful for determining disease severity or the effectiveness of antipsoriatic treatment.
Fatty Acids from a Glass Sponge Aulosaccus sp. Occurrence of New Cyclopropane‐Containing and Methyl‐Branched Acids
Authors: Santalova Elena A. , Denisenko Vladimir A.
Published: November 2016

In order to identify new structures, the free fatty acids from an extract of a glass sponge Aulosaccus sp. (from the north‐west Pacific) belonging to one of the least chemically investigated classes (Hexactinellida), were fractionated by RP‐HPLC and analyzed by NMR spectroscopy and GC–MS of their pyrrolidine derivatives, methyl(ethyl) esters and their dimethyl disulfide adducts. One hundred and twenty‐three C12–C31 acids (including nine new compounds) were detected, one hundred and ten of these compounds have not been found previously in glass sponges. The levels of common methylene‐interrupted polyenes, monoenes of the (n–7) family and less common branched‐chain components proved to be high. New acids were shown to be 5,13‐dimethyl‐tetradec‐4‐enoic, cis‐10,11‐methylene‐heptadecanoic, 10,12‐dimethyl‐octadecanoic, cis‐12,13‐methylene‐nonadecanoic, (14E)‐13‐methyl‐eicos‐14‐enoic, 19‐methyl‐eicos‐13‐enoic, cis‐20,21‐methylene‐heptacosanoic, 27‐methyl‐octacos‐21‐enoic and (22Z)‐nonacos‐22‐enoic. Some important mass spectrometric characteristics of pyrrolidides of homologous cyclopropane fatty acids are reported and discussed.
STROKOG (stroke and cognition consortium): An international consortium to examine the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of neurocognitive disorders in relation to cerebrovascular disease
Authors: Sachdev Perminder S. , Lo Jessica W. , Crawford John D. , Mellon Lisa , Hickey Anne , Williams David , Bordet Régis , Mendyk Anne‐Marie , Gelé Patrick , Deplanque Dominique , Bae Hee‐Joon , Lim Jae‐Sung , Brodtmann Amy , Werden Emilio , Cumming Toby , Köhler Sebastian , Verhey Frans R.J. , Dong Yan‐Hong , Tan Hui Hui , Chen Christopher , Xin Xu , Kalaria Raj N. , Allan Louise M. , Akinyemi Rufus O. , Ogunniyi Adesola , Klimkowicz‐Mrowiec Aleksandra , Dichgans Martin , Wollenweber Frank A. , Zietemann Vera , Hoffmann Michael , Desmond David W. , Linden Thomas , Blomstrand Christian , Fagerberg Björn , Skoog Ingmar , Godefroy Olivier , Barbay Mélanie , Roussel Martine , Lee Byung‐Chul , Yu Kyung‐Ho , Wardlaw Joanna , Makin Stephen J. , Doubal Fergus N. , Chappell Francesca M. , Srikanth Velandai K. , Thrift Amanda G. , Donnan Geoffrey A. , Kandiah Nagaendran , Chander Russell J. , Lin Xuling , Cordonnier Charlotte , Moulin Solene , Rossi Costanza , Sabayan Behnam , Stott David J. , Jukema J. Wouter , Melkas Susanna , Jokinen Hanna , Erkinjuntti Timo , Mok Vincent C.T. , Wong Adrian , Lam Bonnie Y.K. , Leys Didier , Hénon Hilde , Bombois Stéphanie , Lipnicki Darren M. , Kochan Nicole A.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

The Stroke and Cognition consortium (STROKOG) aims to facilitate a better understanding of the determinants of vascular contributions to cognitive disorders and help improve the diagnosis and treatment of vascular cognitive disorders (VCD).

Methods

Longitudinal studies with ≥75 participants who had suffered or were at risk of stroke or TIA and which evaluated cognitive function were invited to join STROKOG. The consortium will facilitate projects investigating rates and patterns of cognitive decline, risk factors for VCD, and biomarkers of vascular dementia.

Results

Currently, STROKOG includes 25 (21 published) studies, with 12,092 participants from five continents. The duration of follow‐up ranges from 3 months to 21 years.

Discussion

Although data harmonization will be a key challenge, STROKOG is in a unique position to reuse and combine international cohort data and fully explore patient level characteristics and outcomes. STROKOG could potentially transform our understanding of VCD and have a worldwide impact on promoting better vascular cognitive outcomes.
Evaluation of α‐synuclein as a novel cerebrospinal fluid biomarker in different forms of prion diseases
Authors: Llorens Franc , Kruse Niels , Schmitz Matthias , Gotzmann Nadine , Golanska Ewa , Thüne Katrin , Zejneli Orgeta , Kanata Eirini , Knipper Tobias , Cramm Maria , Lange Peter , Zafar Saima , Sikorska Beata , Liberski Pawel P. , Mitrova Eva , Varges Daniela , Schmidt Christian , Sklaviadis Theodoros , Mollenhauer Brit , Zerr Inga
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Accurate diagnosis of prion diseases and discrimination from alternative dementias gain importance in the clinical routine, but partial overlap in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers impedes absolute discrimination in the differential diagnostic context.

Methods

We established the clinical parameters for prion disease diagnosis for the quantification of CSF α‐synuclein in patients with sporadic (n = 234) and genetic (n = 56) prion diseases, in cases with cognitive impairment/dementia or neurodegenerative disease (n= 278), and in the neurologic control group (n= 111).

Results

An optimal cutoff value of 680 pg/mL α‐synuclein results in 94% sensitivity and 96% specificity when diagnosing sporadic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD). Genetic CJD cases showed increased CSF α‐synuclein values. No increased α‐synuclein levels were detected in non‐CJD cases with rapid progression course.

Discussion

Detection of α‐synuclein in the CSF of patients with suspected CJD is a valuable diagnostic test reaching almost full discrimination from non‐prion disease cases. These data highlight the utility of CSF α‐synuclein quantification in front of classical CSF biomarkers in clinical routine.
A real‐world impact of cost‐effectiveness of pegylated interferon/ribavarin regimens on treatment‐naïve chronic hepatitis C patients in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Pei‐Chien , Liu Ta‐Wei , Hsieh Meng‐Hsuan , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Liang Po‐Cheng , Lin Yi‐Hung , Huang Ching‐I , Huang Chung‐Feng , Hsieh Ming‐Yen , Hou Nai‐Jen , Lin Zu‐Yau , Chen Shinn‐Cherng , Huang Jee‐Fu , Dai Chia‐Yen , Chuang Wan‐Long , Yu Ming‐Lung
Published: November 2016

Treatments with pegylated interferon/ribavirin (PEG‐IFN/RBV) has been standard‐of‐care in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) (CHC) infection and reimbursed in Taiwan. However, the actual cost‐effectiveness remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate a real‐world cost‐effectiveness for CHC patients treated with PEG‐IFN/RBV by using a clinical cohort with linkage to the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan. The total and itemized medical‐care expenses of outpatient visits of 117 treatment‐naïve CHC patients with linkage to the two million sampling of the National Health Insurance Research Database were collected. Four components of costs were assessed, including antiviral agents, nonantiviral agents, laboratory testing and consultation costs. The cost per sustained virological response (SVR) achieved was calculated to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness. The average cost per treatment in 117 naïve Taiwanese CHC patients was $4620. With an overall SVR rate of 78.6%, the average cost per SVR was $5878. The average medical‐care cost per treatment for 52 Genotype 1 (G1) patients was $5133, including $4420 for antivirals, $380 for nonantivirals, $302 for laboratory, and $78 for consultation, compared to $4209, $3635, $317, $233, and $56 for 65 Genotype 2 (G2) patients. With an SVR rate at 67.3% for G1 and 87.7% for G2 patients, the cost per SVR achieved was significantly higher in G1 patients than those in G2 patients ($7627 vs. $4799, p = 0.001). In the current study, we provided the real‐world cost‐effectiveness of PEG‐IFN/RBV for treatment‐naïve CHC patients. The genotype‐specific cost‐effectiveness could enhance decision‐making for policy‐makers in the coming era of directly acting antiviral therapy.
Quantifying resonant and near-resonant interactions in rotating turbulence
Authors: Clark di Leoni Patricio , Mininni Pablo D.
Published: November 2016

Nonlinear triadic interactions are at the heart of our understanding of turbulence. In flows where waves are present, modes must not only be in a triad to interact, but their frequencies must also satisfy an extra condition: the interactions that dominate the energy transfer are expected to be resonant. We derive equations that allow direct measurement of the actual degree of resonance of each triad in a turbulent flow. We then apply the method to the case of rotating turbulence, where eddies coexist with inertial waves. We show that for a range of wavenumbers, resonant and near-resonant triads are dominant, the latter allowing a transfer of net energy towards two-dimensional modes that would be inaccessible otherwise. The results are in good agreement with approximations often done in theories of rotating turbulence, and with the mechanism of parametric instability proposed to explain the development of anisotropy in such flows. We also observe that, at least for the moderate Rossby numbers studied here, marginally near-resonant and non-resonant triads play a non-negligible role in the coupling of modes.
Domino in domino dominorum: Bede and John of Beverley
Authors: Biggs Frederick M.
Published: November 2016

The distinctive phrase, domino in domino dominorum, shared by the salutations in the prefatory letter of Bede's revised metrical Vita Cuthberti and in the letter sent by Hwaetbert with his former abbot Ceolfrith to Rome, reflects an unexpected historical connection among Bede's revision, Ceolfrith's departure and, more tentatively, the abdication of John of Beverley of the bishopric of York. While only Ceolfrith's journey has been dated to 716, I argue that Bede was revising his poem in anticipation of this event, but under the false assumption that it would be John of Beverley who would lead the party. The salutation, drawn from one of Augustine of Hippo's letters, supports this claim by identifying, after the opening phrase that would be appropriate for a bishop, John as a priest, a playful conjunction of terms used by Bede to call attention to the bishop of York's changing status. This opening, then, was in Bede's mind when the need for a letter from Hwaetbert to Pope Gregory II arose. Bede's revision and, probably, some discussion of John's retirement can be dated to 716.
The Exeter Book Riddles: authorship and transmission
Authors: Orton Peter
Published: November 2016

The Exeter Book Riddles are anonymous, and the generally formulaic character of all Old English verse discourages attempts to establish unity or diversity of authorship for them; but correlations between the sequence of Riddles in the manuscript and the recurrence from poem to poem of aspects of form, content (including solutions), presentation and style sometimes suggest common authorship for particular runs of texts, or reveal shaping episodes in the collection's transmission. Investigation along these lines throws up clear differences between the two main blocks of Riddles (1–59 and 61–95), and evidence emerges that the composition of many (at least) of Riddles 61–95 was influenced by a reading of Riddles 1–59.