bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case studies on optimal location and sizing of renewable energy generators in distribution system
Authors: Singh A. Digambar , Sood B. Yog Raj , Barnwal C. Akhilesh Kumar
Published: December 2016

Optimal location and sizing of different types of renewable energy generation system at the distribution networks for the purpose of active power loss minimization is revealing much attention of electric power utilities in the recent days. In the present work, optimal location and sizing of different types of renewable energy generators (REGs) have been proposed for IEEE 33-bus test system. The vastness of the REGs is determined by minimizing the power loss in the distribution system. Power distribution losses have been minimized with the determination of optimal location as well as optimum size of distributed generator. In this work, various case studies such as active power loss, reactive power loss, combined real and reactive power, optimum power factor, and multi REGs placements have been considered for optimal location of REGs. A simple but efficient Repeated Load Flow (RLF) technique has been used to ascertain optimal location of REGs. The simulation results obtained from this RLF technique have also been compared with an outcome of other approach results. The proposed approach has been validated on IEEE 33-bus and 69 radial distribution test systems.
Behavior of sensitivity at edge of thin-film magnetoimpedance element
Authors: Kikuchi Hiroaki , Oe Suguru , Uetake Hiroaki , Yabukami Shin
Published: December 2016

We fabricated thin-film magnetoimpedance elements in which an impedance of each 100 μm section of element can be examined, to investigate impedance changes of each section subjected to a DC magnetic field. The field strength where the impedance peaks shows a larger value at the edge and it decreases toward the center of the element, while the sensitivity is small at the end of the elements and increases toward the center of the element. The obtained results can be explained on a basis of magnetic field simulation and simple impedance model taking into account a distribution of demagnetizing field. A uniformity of demagnetizing field is significant to obtain a higher sensitivity, and intensity of the demagnetizing field strongly affects a magnetic field strength when the impedance peaks. We also clarified an ellipsoidal shape uniform the distribution of demagnetizing field within the element, which contributes to improve the sensitivity of the MI sensor, especially near edge part.
MnO nanoparticles as the cause of ferromagnetism in bulk dilute Mn-doped ZnO
Authors: Lançon Diane , Nilsen Gøran J. , Wildes Andrew R. , Nemkovski Kirill , Huang Ping , Fejes Dóra , Rønnow Henrik M. , Magrez Arnaud
Published: December 2016

We show that the observed ferromagnetic behavior of ZnO lightly doped with Mn coincides with the presence of MnO nanoparticles, whereas cluster-free Mn doped ZnO behaves paramagnetically. This conclusion is reached by a study of the structural and magnetic properties of powdered samples of (Mnx,Zn1–x)O with x ≤ 0.033 using polarized neutron scattering. Two types of samples were synthesized via, respectively, a solid state method and the decomposition of hydrozincite. Further characterization has been performed using standard X-ray diffraction and magnetization measurements. The results show evidence for the formation of MnO nanoparticles in the highest doped samples for both synthesis methods, with a ferromagnetic behavior attributed to uncompensated Mn2+ in the MnO nanoparticles. The lower Mn-doped samples showed no evidence for structural segregation or magnetic correlations and showed only a paramagnetic behaviour.
Transparent multi-level-cell nonvolatile memory with dual-gate amorphous indium-gallium-zinc oxide thin-film transistors
Authors: Ahn Min-Ju , Cho Won-Ju
Published: December 2016

A fully transparent, nonvolatile charge-trap-flash memory that is based on amorphous indium-gallium-zinc-oxide thin film transistors was fabricated with a dual gate (DG) structure for a multi-level-cell (MLC) application. A large memory window was obtained at a low program voltage in the DG read-operation mode owing to the capacitive-coupling effect between the front gate and the back gate. The MLC was implemented by using the DG read-operation mode with four highly stable levels, as follows: A large threshold-voltage difference >3.5 V per level was obtained under a low program voltage <14 V with a fast program speed of 1 ms. In contrast, the conventional single gate operation mode was incompatible with the MLC application.
Electrical control of exchange bias via oxygen migration across CoO-ZnO nanocomposite barrier
Authors: Li Q. , Yan S. S. , Xu J. , Li S. D. , Zhao G. X. , Long Y. Z. , Shen T. T. , Zhang K. , Zhang J.
Published: December 2016

We proposed a nanocomposite barrier CoO-ZnO for magnetism manipulation in Co/CoO-ZnO/Ag heterojunctions. Both electrical control of magnetism and resistive switching were realized in this junction. An electrical tunable exchange bias of CoO1-v (v denotes O vacancies) on Co films was realized using voltages below 1 volt. The magnetism modulation associated with resistive switching can be attributed to the oxygen ions migration between the insulating CoO1-v layer and the semiconductive ZnO1-v layer, which can cause both ferromagnetic phase and resistance switching of CoO1-v layer.
Enhanced zero-bias conductance peak and splitting at mesoscopic interfaces between an s-wave superconductor and a 3D Dirac semimetal
Authors: Aggarwal Leena , Gayen Sirshendu , Das Shekhar , Thakur Gohil S. , Ganguli Ashok K. , Sheet Goutam
Published: December 2016

Mesoscopic point contacts between elemental metals and the topological 3D Dirac semimetal Cd3As2 have been recently shown to be superconducting with unconventional pairing while Cd3As2 itself does not superconduct. Here we show that the same superconducting phase at mesoscopic interfaces on Cd3As2 can be induced with a known conventional superconductor Nb where a pronounced zero-bias conductance peak is observed which undergoes splitting in energy under certain conditions. The observations are consistent with the theory of the emergence of Andreev bound states due to the presence of a pair potential with broken time reversal symmetry. The data also indicate the possibility of Majorana bound states as expected at the interfaces between s-wave superconductors and topologically non-trivial materials with a high degree of spin-orbit coupling.
Photoluminescence properties of polystyrene-hosted fluorophore thin films
Authors: Chakraborty Subha , Harris Katherine , Huang Mengbing
Published: December 2016

We report on a photo-luminescence study of four different fluorophores: Coumarin 6, 2,5-Diphenyloxazole (PPO), 1,4-Bis(5-phenyl-2-oxazolyl)benzene (POPOP) and Para-terpehnyl (PTP), doped in a polystyrene-based thin film. All of the samples are prepared by spin coating from a non-polar polymer solution at various concentrations. Their emission spectra and transient properties are characterized by photoluminescence measurements. Red-shifts in the emission spectra are observed for all four types of fluorophores as their concentration increases. We explain this phenomenon based on concentration dependence of solvatochromic effects and the results show good agreement with existing literature. We also show that the singlet-singlet annihilation processes are possibly a prevalent mechanism in the high concentration regime that affects the steady state and transient emission characteristics of the fluors. With the exception of PTP, photoluminescence quenching occurs as the fluorophore concentration in the polymer is increased. Rate equations for excited state decay mechanisms are analysed by considering different radiative and non-radiative energy transfer mechanisms. The results show consistency with our experimental observations. PTP shows the best photoluminescence results as an efficient fluor in the thin film, whereas PPO shows the strongest concentration dependent quenching and an anomalous lifetime distribution.
Combined anomalous Nernst effect and thermography studies of ultrathin CoFeB/Pt nanowires
Authors: Wells James , Selezneva Ekaterina , Krzysteczko Patryk , Hu Xiukun , Schumacher Hans W. , Mansell Rhodri , Cowburn Russell , Cuenat Alexandre , Kazakova Olga
Published: December 2016

Using electrical and thermal measurements, we present a method for characterising the anomalous Nernst effect (ANE) within nanoscale devices implementing perpendicular anisotropy materials. Perpendicularly magnetised CoFeB/Pt nanowires were fabricated in close proximity to Pt heater elements on an electrically insulating substrate. The voltages induced within the magnetic material as a result of the ANE were recorded for increasing heater powers, and for both out-of-plane saturated states of the device. Scanning thermal probe microscopy was used to map the temperature distribution within the region of the device at a range of heater powers. By analysing the results from each thermography measurement, it was possible to correlate the temperature gradient induced at the magnetic nanowire against the anomalous Nernst voltage measured within the device. For the particular material, geometry and substrate used, a Nernst coefficient value KN = 2.3 μV(K.T)-1 was calculated. This combination of measurements can provide a powerful tool to characterise the ANE within a number of nanoscale systems, a necessary task for the future implementation and optimisation of the effect within spin-caloritronic devices.
Performance analysis of a new radial-axial flux machine with SMC cores and ferrite magnets
Authors: Liu Chengcheng , Wang Youhua , Lei Gang , Guo Youguang , Zhu Jianguo
Published: December 2016

Soft magnetic composite (SMC) is a popular material in designing of new 3D flux electrical machines nowadays for it has the merits of isotropic magnetic characteristic, low eddy current loss and high design flexibility over the electric steel. The axial flux machine (AFM) with the extended stator tooth tip both in the radial and circumferential direction is a good example, which has been investigated in the last years. Based on the 3D flux AFM and radial flux machine, this paper proposes a new radial-axial flux machine (RAFM) with SMC cores and ferrite magnets, which has very high torque density though the low cost low magnetic energy ferrite magnet is utilized. Moreover, the cost of RAFM is quite low since the manufacturing cost can be reduced by using the SMC cores and the material cost will be decreased due to the adoption of the ferrite magnets. The 3D finite element method (FEM) is used to calculate the magnetic flux density distribution and electromagnetic parameters. For the core loss calculation, the rotational core loss computation method is used based on the experiment results from previous 3D magnetic tester.
Magnetic properties of Nd(Fe1-xCox)10.5M1.5 (M=Mo and V) and their nitrides
Authors: Fu J. B. , Yu X. , Qi Z. Q. , Yang W. Y. , Liu S. Q. , Wang C. S. , Du H. L. , Han J. Z. , Yang Y. C. , Yang J. B.
Published: December 2016

In this work, alloys of Nd(Fe1-xCox)10.5M1.5 (M=Mo and V) were prepared via arc melting and heat treatment. The nitrides of these alloys were synthesized using a gas-solid state reaction method. The influence of Co substitution for Fe in NdFe10.5Mo1.5 and NdFe10.5V1.5 alloys and their nitrides were investigated. It was found that the lattice parameters a, c, and unit cell volume V decrease with increasing Co content x for Nd(Fe1-xCox)10.5Mo1.5. As compared to their parent alloys, the lattice parameters and unit cells volume increase after nitrogenation, which gives rise to higher Curie temperature, magnetization and magnetocrystalline anisotropy field for nitrides. A small amount of Co substitution for Fe (x≤0.3) can enhance the magnetic properties including Curie temperature, saturation magnetization and magnetocrystalline anisotropy field of the alloys and their nitrides, while higher concentration of Co (x>0.3) will deteriorates these magnetic properties, especially for the nitrides, due to the modification of the band structure by Co atom. As a result, Nd(Fe1-xCox)10.5Mo1.5Ny and Nd(Fe1-xCox)10.5V1.5Ny with x≤0.2 become promising candidates for permanent magnet applications. A coercivity of 4.6 kOe and maximum energy product BHmax of 20 MGOe were achieved for NdFe9.45Co1.05Mo1.5Nx.
Interfacial Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction and orbital magnetic moments of metallic multilayer films
Authors: Yamamoto Kento , Pradipto Abdul-Muizz , Nawa Kenji , Akiyama Toru , Ito Tomonori , Ono Teruo , Nakamura Kohji
Published: December 2016

Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) at metallic multilayer interfaces of Co thin films and heavy-metals X (X=Ir, Pt) was investigated from first principles calculations that treat spin-spirals with the spin-orbit coupling. The results predict that the sign of the DMI parameters depends on the heavy-metals at the interfaces, and that the variation of the orbital moments behaves differently depending on the sign of the DMI parameters.
Triple-band polarization-insensitive and wide-angle metamaterial array for electromagnetic energy harvesting
Authors: Zhong Hui-Teng , Yang Xue-Xia , Tan Chong , Yu Kai
Published: December 2016

This work demonstrated a metamaterial array with polarization-insensitive and wide-angle operating in triple-band (GSM 1800, WiMAX, WLAN). The cell of the array consists of four same Split-Ring Resonators arranged in rotating central symmetry. The structure and size of the metamaterial cell were analyzed and optimized by using the microwave simulation software of CST. Meantime, we studied the absorption efficiency and harvesting efficiency under the normal and oblique incidences, energy distribution on the cell and the surface current paths. The simulation results show that the harvesting efficiency is 30%, 90%, and 74% at 1.75 GHz, 3.8 GHz, and 5.4 GHz, respectively, on the conditions of random polarization and the normal incidence. When the oblique incidence changes from 0° to 45°, this meta-harvester can also maintain effective harvesting efficiencies in triple-band. A 7 × 7 array has been fabricated and measured, and a good agreement with the simulated results was obtained.
Pressure-induced structural, magnetic and transport transitions in Sr2FeO3 from first-principles
Authors: Jia Ting , Zeng Zhi , Lin H. Q.
Published: December 2016

The serial system Srn+1FenO2n+1(n=1,2,3…) with the FeO4 square planar motif exhibits abundant phase transitions under pressure. In this work, we investigate the pressure-induced structural, magnetic and transport transitions in Sr2FeO3 from first-principles. Our results show that the system undergoes a structural transition from Immm to Ammm when the volume decreases by 30%, together with a spin-state transition (SST) from high-spin (S = 2) to intermediate-spin (S = 1), an antiferromagnetic-to-ferromagnetic transition and an insulator-to-metal transition (IMT). Besides, the IMT here is a bandwidth controlled transition, but little influenced by the SST.
A comparative study of ultra-low-temperature thermal conductivity of multiferroic orthoferrites RFeO3 (R = Gd and Dy)
Authors: Zhao J. Y. , Zhao Z. Y. , Wu J. C. , Xu H. S. , Liu X. G. , Zhao X. , Sun X. F.
Published: December 2016

Ultra-low-temperature thermal conductivity (κ) of GdFeO3 and DyFeO3 single crystals is studied down to several tens of milli-Kelvin. It is found that the κ is purely phononic and has strong magnetic-field dependence, indicating a strong spin-phonon coupling. Moreover, the low-T κ(H) with H∥c show rather different behaviors in these two materials. In particular, the κ of GdFeO3 can be strongly enhanced in several tesla field and becomes weakly field dependent in higher fields up to 14 T; whereas, the κ of DyFeO3 is continuously suppressed with increasing field and does not show any signature of recovery at 14 T. The results can be well understood by the difference in the spin anisotropy of Gd3+ and Dy3+ ions.
Multimode optical feedback dynamics of InAs/GaAs quantum-dot lasers emitting on different lasing states
Authors: Huang H. , Arsenijević D. , Schires K. , Sadeev T. , Bimberg D. , Grillot F.
Published: December 2016

Quantum dot lasers are envisioned to be the next generation of optical transmitters used for short-reach communication links, owing to their low threshold current and high temperature operation. However, in a context of steady increase in both speed and reach, quantum dot lasers emitting on their upper energy levels have been recently of greater interest as they are touted for their faster modulation dynamics. This work aims at further evaluating the potential impact of such lasers in communication links by characterizing their long-delay optical feedback responses as well as the role of the lasing states on the multimode dynamics of InAs/GaAs quantum-dot Fabry-Perot devices sharing the same design. Results unveil that the excited-state laser shows a much larger sensitivity to optical feedback, with a more complex route to chaos, and a first destabilization point occurring at lower feedback strengths than for a comparable ground-state laser, which remains almost unaffected.
Influence of alternative cations distribution in AgxLi96-x-LSX on dehydration kinetics and its selective adsorption performance for N2 and O2
Authors: Panezai Hamida , Sun Jihong , Jin Xiaoqi
Published: December 2016

Adsorption characteristics of pure gases N2 and O2 on various silver exchanged low silica X-type (AgxLi96-x-LSX) zeolites were investigated. The equilibrium adsorption isotherms of N2 and O2 were measured at 273 and 298 K. Textual and structural properties of parent and resultant AgxLi96-x-LSX were characterized by XRD, BET surface area, and SEM techniques. Kinetics of their thermal dehydration were studied by exploiting thermogravimetric and differential data (TG-DTG) obtained at three heating rates (5, 10 and 15 K) using two model-free (Kissinger and Flynn-Wall-Ozawa) and one model fitting (Coats-Redfern) methods. Forty one mechanism functions were used to evaluate kinetic triplet (activation energy, frequency factor, and most probable mechanism/model) for different stages of dehydration. Results revealed that the impact of very small content of silver on the adsorption of N2 is pronounced and attributed to weak chemical bonds formed between N2 and Ag+ clusters due to strong adsorption of N2 at low pressure, whereas O2 adsorption is affected to a negligible extent. In addition, the N2/O2 adsorption selectivity shows unexpected low values for Ag87.08Li7.94Na0.98-LSX with higher Ag+ content (91.00 %), which might be due to low crystalline water content as well as Ag+ clusters located at SIII sites. N2 adsorption strongly depends on temperature as higher adsorption occurs at low temperature 273 K as compared to 298 K.
Spin pumping driven auto-oscillator for phase-encoded logic—device design and material requirements
Authors: Rakheja S. , Kani N.
Published: December 2016

In this work, we propose a spin nano-oscillator (SNO) device where information is encoded in the phase (time-shift) of the output oscillations. The spin current required to set up the oscillations in the device is generated through spin pumping from an input nanomagnet that is precessing at RF frequencies. We discuss the operation of the SNO device, in which either the in-plane (IP) or out-of-plane (OOP) magnetization oscillations are utilized toward implementing ultra-low-power circuits. Using physical models of the nanomagnet dynamics and the spin transport through non-magnetic channels, we quantify the reliability of the SNO device using a “scaling ratio”. Material requirements for the nanomagnet and the channel to ensure correct logic functionality are identified using the scaling ratio metric. SNO devices consume (2-5)× lower energy compared to CMOS devices and other spin-based devices with similar device sizes and material parameters. The analytical models presented in this work can be used to optimize the performance and scaling of SNO devices in comparison to CMOS devices at ultra-scaled technology nodes.
Solar photocatalytic activity of nitrogen doped TiO2 coating by micro-arc oxidation
Authors: Sridhar S. , Arunnellaiappan T. , Rameshbabu N. , Mika S. , Viswanathan A.
Published: December 2016

Nitrogen doped porous TiO2 (N-TiO2) coating was developed from titanium nitride (TiN) by micro-arc oxidation (MAO), whereas TiN was prepared by plasma nitriding on commercially pure (Cp) titanium. The surface roughness of the N-TiO2 coating was greater than that of the TiO2 coating due to different MAO processing parameters. The band gap energy of N-TiO2 coating was reduced to 2.92 eV compared to TiO2 coating. The band gap energy reduction of N-TiO2 was attributed to nitrogen doping and the mixture of anatase, rutile and new phase (TiN0.30). The photoluminescence study demonstrated that the recombination rate of photo-generated electron–hole pairs of TiO2 was significantly suppressed after doping with nitrogen. N-TiO2 exhibited higher photocatalytic activity towards methylene blue dye degradation than to pure TiO2 coating. The recyclability test of N-TiO2 coating showed constant photocatalytic efficiency after the fourth run. Hence, N-TiO2 porous coating could be a promising material for immobilised solar photocatalytic applications.
Microstructure evaluation of CO-222/SiC coating produced by the plasma spraying method
Authors: Jafari M. , Mostaghimi J. , Monajatizadeh H. , Rafiei M.
Published: December 2016

A composite coating containing 10 wt-% of SiC and 90 wt-% CO-222 super alloy was coated with atmospheric plasma spray at two different currents on the surface of the 304 stainless steel. The aim of this research is to address the microstructure and phase formation during the plasma spray of Co-222/SiC composite coatings. The phase analysis, microstructure, surface morphology and microhardness of Co-222/SiC feedstock powder and the coating were characterised by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy and Vickers microhardness. The results demonstrated that the outer surface of SiC particles was decarburised and the SiO2 phase was formed at the high temperature of plasma gun. Also, Cr2O3 oxide was formed owing to the reaction of Cr from Co-222 super alloy with O2. By the formation of oxide phases and degradation of silicon carbide, the microhardness of the composite was reduced, as compared to CO-222 super alloy.
A flavour of Alzheimer's
Authors: Tessier Laurence Anne
Published: December 2016

This article describes how today in the United States neurologists diagnose forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia. Taking as a starting‐point the pervasive context of uncertainty in the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases, it examines how uncertainty is not merely an epistemological obstacle to the making of knowledge. On the contrary, the article analyses how uncertainty positively incites the use of clinicians’ ‘feelings’ in diagnostic work. Drawing on observations of clinical consultations and team meetings, it studies how, alongside contemporary instruments of objectification, clinicians use, share, and discuss their ‘feelings’ to ultimately renew knowledge about brain diseases. In documenting the manner in which medical expertise is bound to a concrete experience of the world, this article further explores how experts’ ‘intuition’ can be grasped as a conscious and effortful process, rather than as something ineffable, resisting analysis, and confined to an unconscious background.
Pregnancy outcomes in women with mechanical prosthetic heart valves: a prospective descriptive population based study using the United Kingdom Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS) data collection system
Authors: Vause S , Clarke B , Tower CL , Hay CRM , Knight M ,   (on behalf of UKOSS)
Published: December 2016

Objective

To describe the incidence of mechanical prosthetic heart valves (MPHV) in pregnancy in the UK; rates of maternal and fetal complications in this group of women, and whether these vary with the anticoagulation used during pregnancy.

Design

Prospective descriptive population‐based study.

Setting

All consultant‐led maternity units in the UK.

Population

All women with an MPHV who were pregnant between 1 February 2013 and 31 January 2015.

Methods

Collection and analysis of anonymous data relating to pregnancy management and outcome, using the UKOSS notification and data collection system.

Main outcome measures

Maternal death, serious maternal morbidity, poor fetal outcome.

Results

Data were obtained for 58 women giving an estimated incidence of 3.7 (95% CI 2.7–4.7) per 100 000 maternities. There were five maternal deaths (9%); a further 24 (41%) suffered serious maternal morbidity. There was a poor fetal outcome from 26 (47%) pregnancies. Only 16 (28%) women had a good maternal and good fetal outcome. Low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH) was used throughout pregnancy by 71% of women. Of these, 83% required rapid dose escalation in the first trimester. Monitoring regimens lacked consistency.

Conclusions

This study has estimated the incidence of MPHV in pregnant women in the UK. It includes the largest cohort managed with LMWH throughout pregnancy reported to date. It demonstrates a high rate of maternal death, and serious maternal and fetal morbidity. Women with MPHVs, and their clinicians need to appreciate the significant maternal and fetal risks involved in pregnancy. Care should be concentrated in specialist centres.

Tweetable abstract

High rates of poor maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant women with mechanical prosthetic heart valves
Heterogeneous activity causes a nonlinear increase in the group energy use of ant workers isolated from queen and brood
Authors: Ferral Nolan , Holloway Kyara , Li Mingzhong , Yin Zhaozheng , Hou Chen
Published: December 2016

Increasing evidence has shown that the energy use of ant colonies increases sublinearly with colony size so that large colonies consume less per capita energy than small colonies. It has been postulated that social environment (e.g., in the presence of queen and brood) is critical for the sublinear group energetics, and a few studies of ant workers isolated from queens and brood observed linear relationships between group energetics and size. In this paper, we hypothesize that the sublinear energetics arise from the heterogeneity of activity in ant groups, that is, large groups have relatively more inactive members than small groups. We further hypothesize that the energy use of ant worker groups that are allowed to move freely increases more slowly than the group size even if they are isolated from queen and brood. Previous studies only provided indirect evidence for these hypotheses due to technical difficulties. In this study, we applied the automated behavioral monitoring and respirometry simultaneously on isolated worker groups for long time periods, and analyzed the image with the state‐of‐the‐art algorithms. Our results show that when activity was not confined, large groups had lower per capita energy use, a lower percentage of active members, and lower average walking speed than small groups; while locomotion was confined, however, the per capita energy use was a constant regardless of the group size. The quantitative analysis shows a direct link between variation in group energy use and the activity level of ant workers when isolated from queen and brood.
The risk of secondary cancer in nasopharyngeal carcinoma paediatric patients due to intensity modulated radiotherapy and mega‐voltage cone beam computed tomography
Authors: Sherif Reham S , Attalla Ehab M , Elshemey Wael M , Madian Noha G
Published: December 2016

Introduction

There is a growing interest in the study of radiation‐induced secondary cancer. The aim of this work is (i) to estimate the peripheral doses attributable to intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and mega‐voltage cone beam computed tomography (MV‐CBCT) for some organs at risk (OARs) which surround the target being treated (Nasopharynx) in paediatric patients. (ii) To estimate the risk of radiation‐induced secondary cancers attributable to patient setup verification imaging dose using MV‐CBCT for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC) in paediatric patients and comparing it with that attributable to the therapeutic dose using IMRT.

Methods

Intensity modulated radiotherapy treatment planning of 10 NPC paediatric patients was carried out on KonRad release 2.2.23. The additional radiation doses to the patients attributable to MV‐CBCT were calculated also using Xio Version 4.4. A paediatric phantom and thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) were used to measure the patient doses attributable to IMRT. These doses were then compared with the calculated doses. The risk of induced secondary cancers attributable to IMRT and MV‐CBCT was calculated and compared to each other.

Results

The absorbed doses (mean dose) for the OARs (Brain, Brain stem, spinal cord, thyroid, oesophagus, mandible, heart, optic nerve, lung and eye) were higher for the therapeutic dose than for the imaging dose used in the verification of patient position before and during the treatment. The risk of induced secondary cancers in thyroid, oesophagus and lung (the only organs from the OARs which have tabulated values for risk calculations) was higher for therapeutic dose (7.29 ± 0.73%, 2.62 ± 0.17% and 6.76 ± 0.87%, respectively) than for verification imaging dose (0.14 ± 0.00%, 0.06 ± 0.00%, 0.10 ± 0.03% respectively).

Conclusion

The risk of secondary cancers attributable to verification imaging dose using MV‐CBCT is very small compared to therapeutic dose using IMRT. Therefore, it is important to focus on the risk of secondary cancers attributable to therapeutic dose especially when using IMRT, where the produced leakage radiation is considerably high compared to some other techniques (such as conformal radiotherapy).
Clinical Validation of Reduced Alcohol Consumption After Treatment for Alcohol Dependence Using the World Health Organization Risk Drinking Levels
Authors: Witkiewitz Katie , Hallgren Kevin A. , Kranzler Henry R. , Mann Karl F. , Hasin Deborah S. , Falk Daniel E. , Litten Raye Z. , O'Malley Stephanie S. , Anton Raymond F.
Published: December 2016

Background

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a highly prevalent public health problem associated with considerable individual and societal costs. Abstinence from alcohol is the most widely accepted target of treatment for AUD, but it severely limits treatment options and could deter individuals who prefer to reduce their drinking from seeking treatment. Clinical validation of reduced alcohol consumption as the primary outcome of alcohol clinical trials is critical for expanding treatment options. One potentially useful measure of alcohol treatment outcome is a reduction in the World Health Organization (WHO, International Guide for Monitoring Alcohol Consumption and Related Harm. Geneva, Switzerland, 2000) risk levels of alcohol use (very high risk, high risk, moderate risk, and low risk). For example, a 2‐shift reduction in WHO risk levels (e.g., high risk to low risk) has been used by the European Medicines Agency (2010, Guideline on the Development of Medicinal Products for the Treatment of Alcohol Dependence. UK) to evaluate nalmefene as a treatment for alcohol dependence (AD; Mann et al. 2013, Biol Psychiatry 73, 706–13).

Methods

The current study was a secondary data analysis of the COMBINE study (n = 1,383; Anton et al., ) to examine the association between reductions in WHO risk levels and reductions in alcohol‐related consequences and mental health symptoms during and following treatment in patients with AD.

Results

Any reduction in WHO risk drinking level during treatment was associated with significantly fewer alcohol‐related consequences and improved mental health at the end of treatment and for up to 1 year posttreatment. A greater reduction in WHO risk drinking level predicted a greater reduction in consequences and greater improvements in mental health.

Conclusions

Changes in WHO risk levels appear to be a valid end point for alcohol clinical trials. Based on the current findings, reductions in WHO risk drinking levels during treatment reflect meaningful reductions in alcohol‐related consequences and improved functioning.
The Mini Alcohol Craving Experience Questionnaire: Development and Clinical Application
Authors: Coates Jason M. , Gullo Matthew J. , Feeney Gerald F.X. , Kavanagh David J. , Young Ross McD. , Dingle Genevieve A. , May Jon , Andrade Jackie , Statham Dixie J. , Connor Jason P.
Published: December 2016

Background

Standardized alcohol craving scales are rarely used outside of research environments despite recognized clinical utility. Scale length is a key barrier to more widespread application. A brief measure of alcohol craving is needed to improve research and treatment of alcohol use disorders (AUDs). Grounded in the Elaborated Intrusion Theory of Desire, the Alcohol Craving Experience (ACE) Questionnaire comprises two 11‐item self‐report scales that assess past‐week frequency and maximum strength of alcohol craving. This study aimed to create a brief version of the ACE while maintaining psychometric integrity and clinical utility.

Methods

Patients attending a university hospital alcohol and drug outpatient service for the treatment of AUD completed the ACE as part of a questionnaire battery. Three patient samples were utilized: 519 patients with pretreatment and outcome data, 228 patients with pretreatment data, and 66 patients who completed the ACE at treatment sessions 1 and 2.

Results

The Frequency scale of the ACE possessed greater clinical utility and predictive validity than the Strength scale. Revision of the Frequency measure produced a 5‐item “Mini Alcohol Craving Experience” (MACE) Questionnaire. Satisfactory validity (construct, predictive, concurrent, convergent, and incremental) and reliability (internal and test–retest) were maintained. A 1 standard deviation increase in pretreatment MACE score was associated with a 54 percentage increase in the odds of patient lapse or dropout.

Conclusions

The MACE provides a brief, theoretically, and psychometrically robust measure of alcohol craving suitable for use with AUD populations in time‐limited clinical and research settings.
REmote SUpervision to Decrease HospitaLization RaTe. Unified and integrated platform for data collected from devices manufactured by different companies: Design and rationale of the RESULT study
Authors: Tajstra Mateusz , Sokal Adam , Gwóźdź Arkadiusz , Wilczek Marcin , Gacek Adam , Wojciechowski Konrad , Gadula‐Gacek Elżbieta , Adamowicz‐Czoch Elżbieta , Chłosta‐Niepiekło Katarzyna , Milewski Krzysztof , Rozentryt Piotr , Kalarus Zbigniew , Gąsior Mariusz , Poloński Lech
Published: December 2016

The number of patients with heart failure implantable cardiac electronic devices (CIEDs) is growing. Hospitalization rate in this group is very high and generates enormous costs. To avoid the need for hospital treatment, optimized monitoring and follow‐up is crucial. Remote monitoring (RM) has been widely put into practice in the management of CIEDs but it may be difficult due to the presence of differences in systems provided by device manufacturers and loss of gathered data in case of device reimplantation. Additionally, conclusions derived from studies about usefulness of RM in clinical practice apply to devices coming only from a single company. An integrated monitoring platform allows for more comprehensive data analysis and interpretation. Therefore, the primary objective of Remote Supervision to Decrease Hospitalization Rate (RESULT) study is to evaluate the impact of RM on the clinical status of patients with ICDs or CRT‐Ds using an integrated platform. Six hundred consecutive patients with ICDs or CRT‐Ds implanted will be prospectively randomized to either a traditional or RM‐based follow‐up model. The primary clinical endpoint will be a composite of all‐cause mortality or hospitalization for cardiovascular reasons within 12 months after randomization. The primary technical endpoint will be to construct and evaluate a unified and integrated platform for the data collected from RM devices manufactured by different companies. This manuscript describes the design and methodology of the prospective, randomized trial designed to determine whether remote monitoring using an integrated platform for different companies is safe, feasible, and efficacious (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02409225).
Maternal–fetal cholesterol transport in the second half of mouse pregnancy does not involve LDL receptor‐related protein 2
Authors: Zwier M. V. , Baardman M. E. , van Dijk T. H. , Jurdzinski A. , Wisse L. J. , Bloks V. W. , Berger R. M. F. , DeRuiter M. C. , Groen A. K. , Plösch T.
Published: December 2016

Aim

LDL receptor‐related protein type 2 (LRP2) is highly expressed on both yolk sac and placenta. Mutations in the corresponding gene are associated with severe birth defects in humans, known as Donnai–Barrow syndrome. We here characterized the contribution of LRP2 and maternal plasma cholesterol availability to maternal–fetal cholesterol transport and fetal cholesterol levels in utero in mice.

Methods

Lrp2+/− mice were mated heterozygously to yield fetuses of all three genotypes. Half of the dams received a 0.5% probucol‐enriched diet during gestation to decrease maternal HDL cholesterol. At E13.5, the dams received an injection of D7‐labelled cholesterol and were provided with 1‐13C acetate‐supplemented drinking water. At E16.5, fetal tissues were collected and maternal cholesterol transport and fetal synthesis quantified by isotope enrichments in fetal tissues by GC‐MS.

Results

The Lrp2 genotype did not influence maternal–fetal cholesterol transport and fetal cholesterol. However, lowering of maternal plasma cholesterol levels by probucol significantly reduced maternal–fetal cholesterol transport. In the fetal liver, this was associated with increased cholesterol synthesis rates. No indications were found for an interaction between the Lrp2 genotype and maternal probucol treatment.

Conclusion

Maternal–fetal cholesterol transport and endogenous fetal cholesterol synthesis depend on maternal cholesterol concentrations but do not involve LRP2 in the second half of murine pregnancy. Our results suggest that the mouse fetus can compensate for decreased maternal cholesterol levels. It remains a relevant question how the delicate system of cholesterol transport and synthesis is regulated in the human fetus and placenta.
Future Cash Flow Predictability of Non‐IFRS Earnings: Australian Evidence
Authors: Sinnewe Elisabeth , Harrison Jennifer L. , Wijeweera Albert
Published: December 2016

The global proliferation of reporting non‐International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) (pro forma) earnings has been subject to academic debate and regulatory reform. This study examines whether non‐IFRS earnings contain statistically significant information on future cash flow predictability that could be useful for investors. The study uses data from large Australian listed companies over a six‐year period (2006–11) covering three distinctive periods around the global financial crisis (GFC): pre‐GFC, GFC and post‐GFC. Results based on fixed effects panel estimation methods suggest non‐IFRS earnings do exert a significantly positive impact on future cash flow predictability but only during pre‐crisis and crisis periods.
Tauopathy with hippocampal 4‐repeat tau immunoreactive spherical inclusions: a report of three cases
Authors: Kovacs Gabor G. , Kwong Linda K. , Grossman Murray , Irwin David J. , Lee Edward B. , Robinson John L. , Suh Eunran , Van Deerlin Vivianna M. , Lee Virginia M. , Trojanowski John Q.
Published: December 2016

Tauopathies are a major group of neurodegenerative proteinopathies characterized by the accumulation of abnormal and hyperphosphorylated tau proteins in the brain. Tau pathology is characterized as 3R (repeat) or 4R predominant or mixed 3R and 4R type. Here we report three cases lacking mutations in the microtubule associated protein tau (MAPT) gene with unusual tau pathology. The age at onset and duration of illness, respectively, were 63 and 20 years (male), 67 and 5 years (female) and 72 and 20 years (female). The clinical presentation was compatible with a diagnosis of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) in two subjects and with cognitive decline in all three subjects. Common neuropathological features included neuronal loss in the hippocampus and dentate gyrus associated with spherical basophilic Pick body‐like inclusions showing 4R tau immunoreactivity, which was supported by the detection of predominantly 4R tau species by Western blot examination. In addition, accumulation of tau immunoreactive argyrophilic astrocytes in the hippocampus and amygdala and oligodendroglial coiled bodies in the hippocampal white matter were observed. These morphologies appeared in combination with Alzheimer disease‐related pathology and subcortical tau pathology compatible with PSP. Together with a single case report in the literature, our observations on these three cases expand the spectrum of previously described tauopathies. We suggest that this tauopathy variant with hippocampal 4R tau immunoreactive spherical inclusions might contribute to the cognitive deficits in the patients reported here. The precise definition of the clinicopathological relevance of these unusual tau pathologies merits further study.
Design, synthesis and pharmacophoric model building of new 3‐alkoxymethyl/3‐phenyl indole‐2‐carboxamides with potential antiproliferative activity
Authors: Abdelrahman Mostafa H. , Aboraia Ahmed S. , Youssif Bahaa G. M. , Elsadek Bakheet E. M.
Published: December 2016

Novel 3‐alkoxymethyl/3‐phenyl indole‐2‐carboxamide derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their anticancer activity. Most of the tested compounds showed moderate to excellent activity against the tested cell lines (MCF7 and HCT116). 3‐Phenyl substitution on indole with p‐piperidinyl phenethyl 24a and p‐dimethylamino phenethyl 24c exhibited anticancer activity against MCF7 with IC50 of 0.13 and 0.14 μm, respectively. Further mechanistic study of the most active compounds through their action on cell cycle showed disturbance in cell cycle progression and cell cycle arrest. For future development of this series of compounds, pharmacophore study was conducted which indicated that the enhancement of the activity could be achieved through the addition of acceptor or donating groups to the already‐present indole nucleus.
Talking with young children about concussions: an exploratory study
Authors: Kroshus E. , Gillard D. , Haarbauer‐Krupa J. , Goldman R. E. , Bickham D. S.
Published: December 2016

Background

Concussion education for children early in their participation in organized sport may help shape lasting attitudes about concussion safety. However, existing programming and research focus on older ages.

Methods

Qualitative interviews about concussions were conducted with twenty children between the ages of six and eight. Structural, descriptive and pattern coding were used to organize the transcribed interviews and identify emergent themes.

Results

Eighteen of the participants indicated that they had heard of the word concussion, with 12 describing the injury as related to the brain or head. The most frequently described mechanisms of injury were impacts to the head or falls, and symptoms tended to be somatic, such as generalized pain. The most frequently endorsed strategy to avoid sustaining a concussion was to ‘follow the rules.’ Multiple participants referenced parents as an informal source of information about concussions.

Conclusions

While most participants demonstrated some awareness about concussions, there were clear knowledge gaps that can be addressed with developmentally appropriate concussion education programming. Consistent with their developmental stage, interventions targeted at children in this age range may be most successful if they use basic logic, concrete ideas, provide rules to be followed and engage parents in dissemination.
Assessment by airway ellipticity on cine‐MRI to differentiate severe obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Kojima Tsukasa , Kawakubo Masateru , Nishizaka Mari K. , Rahmawati Anita , Ando Shin‐ichi , Chishaki Akiko , Nakamura Yasuhiko , Nagao Michinobu
Published: December 2016

Introduction

The severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is assessed by the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) determined from polysomnography (PSG). However, PSG requires a specialized facility with well‐trained specialists and takes overnight. Therefore, simple tools, which could distinguish severe OSA, have been needed before performing PSG.

Objectives

We propose the new index using cine‐MRI as a screening test to differentiate severe OSA patients, who would need PSG and proper treatment.

Methods

Thirty‐six patients with suspected OSA (mean age 54.6 y, mean AHI 52.6 events/h, 33 males) underwent airway cine‐MRI at the fourth cervical vertebra level during 30 s of free breathing and PSG. The minimum airway ellipticity (AE) in 30 s duration was measured, and was defined as the severity of OSA. Patients were divided into severe OSA, not‐severe OSA, and normal groups, according to PSG results. The comparison of AE between any two of the three groups was performed by Wilcoxon rank‐sum test. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the optimal cut‐off of AE for identifying severe OSA patients.

Results

The minimum AE for severe OSA was significantly lower than that for not‐severe OSA and normal (severe, 0.17 ± 0.16; not severe, 0.31 ± 0.17; normal, 0.38 ± 0.19, P < .05). ROC analysis revealed that the optimal cutoff of the minimum AE 0.21 identified severe OSA patients, with an area under the curve of 0.75, 68% sensitivity, and 83% specificity.

Conclusion

AE is a feasible quantitative index, and a promising screening test for detecting severe OSA patients.
Human capital and life satisfaction in economic transition
Authors: Silver Hannah C. , Caudill Steven B. , Mixon Franklin G.
Published: December 2016

This study explores the life satisfaction of Egyptians – with a particular focus on the impact of higher education on happiness – both before and after that country's Arab Spring of 2011. Ordered logit results point to positive and significant relationships between life satisfaction and both perceived high incomes and the human capital variable, good health, for the pre‐ and post‐Arab Spring periods in Egypt, thus confirming prior studies of transition economies. For a second human capital variable – secondary education – the results indicate a positive and significant relationship with happiness in pre‐Arab Spring Egypt, while that relationship for post‐Arab Spring Egypt is negative and significant. This particular finding is probably the result of the failure of educated Egyptians to achieve a better life despite their investments in human capital – due to the lack of opportunity that accompanied the failure of the country's Arab Spring to change the political and social environment.
Entrepreneurship in the shadows
Authors: Tumen Semih
Published: December 2016

I develop a dynamic model of forward‐looking entrepreneurs, who decide whether to operate in the formal economy or informal economy and choose how much to invest in their businesses, taking government policy as given. The government has access to two policy tools: taxes on formal business activity and enforcement (or policing) discouraging informality. The main focus of the paper is on transitional dynamics under different initial wealth levels. Whether an initially small business will be trapped in the informal economy and remain small forever or grow quickly and become a large formal business depends on tax and enforcement policies. High tax rates accompanied by loose enforcement – which is mostly the case in less‐developed countries (LDCs) – induce tax avoidance, discourage investment in formal businesses, and drive the entrepreneurial activity towards the informal sector even though the initial wealth level is high. Lowering taxes on formal activity joined with strict enforcement can help reducing the magnitude of poverty traps in LDCs – such as the MENA region, Latin America and developing Asia.