bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on ethylene glycol monomethyl ether palm oil monoester as a novel biofuel
Authors: Guo Hejun , Liu Shenghua , Wang Rudong , Su Junzuo , Ma Jing , Feng Yang
Published: July 2015

In the article, a new biofuel named ethylene glycol monomethyl ether palm oil monoester (EGMMEPOM) is developed as a clean alternative fuel for diesel engine. It was synthesized through transesterification reaction with a refined palm oil and ethylene glycol monomethyl ether (EGMME) as reactants and potassium hydroxide (KOH) as catalyst under certain conditions. Its chemical structure was identified through Fourier transform‐infrared (FT‐IR) spectrum, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy, and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) analyses, and its main fuel properties were measured precisely. A two‐cylinder diesel engine was utilized to investigate its combustion performances, fuel economy and emissions characteristics. When the engine was operated with the new biofuel at a high speed of 2000 r/min instead of diesel fuel, smoke emissions were decreased by 26.3% to 70.0% with carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon compounds (HC) emissions significantly reduced. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions were decreased by 14.0% to 23.5%. The new palm oil monoester has a cetane number as high as 77.0 which leads to a shorter autoignition delay duration than diesel fuel and makes the curves of in‐cylinder pressure increasing rate and heat release rate shift forward 2 to 3 degrees crank angle (°CA). Owing to more amount of oxygen existing in the new biofuel, both peak in‐cylinder pressure increasing rate and peak heat releasing rate decreased. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 241–249, 2016
An improved genetic algorithm and its applications to the optimisation design of an aspirated compressor profile
Authors: Jinhuan Zhang , Zhenggui Zhou
Published: July 2015

Genetic algorithm (GA) is a widely used method for numerical optimisation owing to their good global search ability; however, their local search ability has an obvious shortcoming. To improve local search ability, this paper introduces a simplex method and combines it with a GA to form an improved genetic algorithm (IGA). In the IGA, at each generation of the original GA, high‐fitness individuals are selected as vertices of a simplex, and then a one‐dimensional search within the simplex is conducted to obtain the most‐fit individuals while replacing the inferior ones. Typical test functions show that the IGA can effectively improve the optimisation effect over that of the original GA. To further verify the IGA's practicability, an aspirated compressor profile is optimised with profile, suction flow rate and suction flow location as coupled design parameters. The results again show that the IGA has a better optimising effect than the GA. In addition, it is also verified that coupling the profile and suction flow parameters results in a design that outperforms the uncoupled design; therefore, designing an aspirated compressor blade by arranging suction flow on a conventional blade without considering suction flow is not a good method. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The organization of the posterior parietal cortex devoted to upper limb actions: An fMRI study
Authors: Ferri Stefania , Rizzolatti Giacomo , Orban Guy A.
Published: July 2015

The present fMRI study examined whether upper‐limb action classes differing in their motor goal are encoded by different PPC sectors. Action observation was used as a proxy for action execution. Subjects viewed actors performing object‐related (e.g., grasping), skin‐displacing (e.g., rubbing the skin), and interpersonal upper limb actions (e.g., pushing someone). Observation of the three action classes activated a three‐level network including occipito‐temporal, parietal, and premotor cortex. The parietal region common to observing all three action classes was located dorsally to the left intraparietal sulcus (DIPSM/DIPSA border). Regions specific for observing an action class were obtained by combining the interaction between observing action classes and stimulus types with exclusive masking for observing the other classes, while for regions considered preferentially active for a class the interaction was exclusively masked with the regions common to all observed actions. Left putative human anterior intraparietal was specific for observing manipulative actions, and left parietal operculum including putative human SII region, specific for observing skin‐displacing actions. Control experiments demonstrated that this latter activation depended on seeing the skin being moved and not simply on seeing touch. Psychophysiological interactions showed that the two specific parietal regions had similar connectivities. Finally, observing interpersonal actions preferentially activated a dorsal sector of left DIPSA, possibly the homologue of ventral intraparietal coding the impingement of the target person's body into the peripersonal space of the actor. These results support the importance of segregation according to the action class as principle of posterior parietal cortex organization for action observation and by implication for action execution. Hum Brain Mapp 36:3845–3866, 2015. © 2015 The Authors Human Brain Mapping Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ecohydrological separation in wet, low energy northern environments? A preliminary assessment using different soil water extraction techniques
Authors: Geris Josie , Tetzlaff Doerthe , McDonnell Jeffrey , Anderson James , Paton Graeme , Soulsby Chris
Published: July 2015

Ecohydrological studies in seasonally dry climatic regions have revealed isotopic separation of the sources of water used by trees and those that generate stream flow, also referred to as the ‘two water worlds’ hypothesis. Here we investigated whether similar separation occurs in a wet, low energy northern (Latitude 57°) environment in Scotland. For two common soil types (Histosols and Podzols) at three soil depths, and at both forested (with Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)) and non‐forested sites, we compared the stable isotope composition of soil water held at increasing soil water tensions. These were assessed by different soil water extraction techniques: Rhizon samplers (mobile water), centrifugation at different speeds (representing different tensions), and cryogenic extraction (bulk water). Sampling occurred during a relatively dry summer. Water that was held at increasing tensions appeared more depleted than more mobile water, consistent with older (winter) precipitation. This pattern was independent of soil type, vegetation cover, and time during the growing season, although there was a slight tendency towards less separation with soil depth. Nevertheless, soil waters in this generally wet, low energy environment exhibited only minor evaporative enrichment, limited to the upper soil profile only. Furthermore, stream water showed no deviation from the local meteoric water line. Preliminary sampling for tree xylem water suggested uptake of evaporated soil water from the near surface soil horizons (upper 10 cm) where fine root densities are concentrated. For Histosols in particular, tree water appeared lagged in its isotopic composition compared to the soil water time series. Although more work is needed to fully test the ‘two water worlds’ hypothesis, our initial analyses did not provide clear evidence to support this in wet, low energy northern environments. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transcription factors that interact with p53 and Mdm2
Authors: Inoue Kazushi , Fry Elizabeth A. , Frazier Donna P.
Published: July 2015

The tumor suppressor p53 is activated upon cellular stresses such as DNA damage, oncogene activation, hypoxia, which transactivates sets of genes that induce DNA repair, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, or autophagy, playing crucial roles in the prevention of tumor formation. The central regulator of the p53 pathway is Mdm2 which inhibits transcriptional activity, nuclear localization and protein stability. More than 30 cellular p53‐binding proteins have been isolated and characterized including Mdm2, Mdm4, p300, BRCA1/2, ATM, ABL and 53BP‐1/2. Most of them are nuclear proteins; however, not much is known about p53‐binding transcription factors. In this review, we focus on transcription factors that directly interact with p53/Mdm2 through direct binding including Dmp1, E2F1, YB‐1 and YY1. Dmp1 and YB‐1 bind only to p53 while E2F1 and YY1 bind to both p53 and Mdm2. Dmp1 has been shown to bind to p53 and block all the known functions for Mdm2 on p53 inhibition, providing a secondary mechanism for tumor suppression in Arf‐null cells. Although E2F1‐p53 binding provides a checkpoint mechanism to silence hyperactive E2F1, YB‐1 or YY1 interaction with p53 subverts the activity of p53, contributing to cell cycle progression and tumorigenesis. Thus, the modes and consequences for each protein‐protein interaction vary from the viewpoint of tumor development and suppression.
On the inclusion of post‐MP2 contributions to double‐Hybrid density functionals
Authors: Chan Bun , Goerigk Lars , Radom Leo
Published: July 2015

In this study, we explore the effect of supplementing the DuT spin‐component‐scaled double‐hybrid density functional method with post‐second‐order Møller–Plesset‐type theory (MP2) correlation terms. We find that the inclusion of additional MP3 correlation energies has almost no effect on the performance. Further addition of correlation effects from MP4 generally leads to a small improvement in the performance. However, we find that the inclusion of the higher‐order perturbative correlation effects does not rectify some major shortcomings of DuT for more challenging systems, and the use of MP4, in fact, leads to a significant deterioration in the performance in some cases. We also find that the use of correlation energies from CCSD(T) instead of those from MP3 and MP4 does not lead to a substantial improvement over the MP4‐based method, both in general and in some difficult cases that we have examined. An additional observation is that, for large systems that are dominated by noncovalent interactions, DuT and the two MPn‐based post‐MP2 double‐hybrid density functional theory (DFT) procedures all benefit from the inclusion of dispersion corrections. Overall, our investigation suggests that the current generation of MP2‐based double‐hybrid DFT methods may already be providing close to the optimal performance that can be achieved with the double‐hybrid methodology paired with spin‐component‐scaling. Development of even better double hybrids is an active research field, and we hope that our study provides valuable insights. We recommend the continuing use of existing MP2‐based double‐hybrid methods as a bridging level between hybrid density functional procedures and high‐level wave‐function‐based procedures. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Structure and stability of noble gas bound compounds (E = C, Ge, Sn, Pb; X = H, F, Cl, Br)
Authors: Pan Sudip , Moreno Diego , Ghosh Sreyan , Chattaraj Pratim K. , Merino Gabriel
Published: July 2015

It has been analyzed at the MP2/def2‐QZVPPD level whether(E = C‐Pb; X = H, F‐Br) can bind noble gas atoms. Geometrical and electronic structures, dissociation energy values, thermochemical parameters, natural bond order, electron density, and energy decomposition analyses highlight the possibility of such noble gas boundcompounds. Except He and Ne, the other heavier congeners of this family make quite strong bonds with E. In fact, the dissociations of Ar‐Rn bound analogues turn out to be endergonic in nature at 298 K, except in the cases of ArGe,, and.and(E = Ge‐Pb) can even bind two Ng atoms with reasonably high dissociation energy. As the pzorbital of the E center inplays a crucial role in its binding with the noble gas atoms, the effect of the π back‐bonding causing X → E electron transfer ought to be properly understood. Due to the larger back‐donation, the Ng binding ability ofgradually decreases along F to Br.and the global minimum HE+…H2(E = Sn, Pb) complexes are also able to bind Ar‐Rn atoms quite effectively. The NgE bonds in Ar‐Rn bound,, and(E = Ge‐Pb) and Xe/RnE bonds inand(E = Ge, Sn) are mainly of covalent type. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Four‐component relativistic DFT calculations of 77Se NMR chemical shifts: A gateway to a reliable computational scheme for the medium‐sized organoselenium molecules
Authors: Rusakov Yury Yu. , Krivdin Leonid B.
Published: July 2015

A versatile high‐accuracy computational scheme for the 77Se nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) chemical shifts of the medium‐sized organoselenium compounds is suggested within a framework of a full four‐component relativistic density functional theory (DFT). The main accuracy factors (DFT functionals, relativistic geometry, vibrational corrections, and solvent effects) are addressed. The best result is achieved with NMR‐oriented KT2 functional of Keal–Tozer characterized by a fairly small error of only 30 ppm for the span of about 1700 ppm (<2%). © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Regular budding modes in a zooxanthellate dendrophylliid Turbinaria peltata (Scleractinia) revealed by X‐ray CT imaging and three‐dimensional reconstruction
Authors: Sentoku Asuka , Ishibashi Masatsugu , Masumoto Shinji , Ohno Rie , Tomiyama Takayuki , Machiyama Hideaki , Tadai Osamu , Ezaki Yoichi
Published: July 2015

The zooxanthellate dendrophylliid coral, Turbinaria peltata (Scleractinia), exhibit various growth forms that increase the photoreception area through the development of coenosteum skeletons. Because it is difficult to make detailed observations of the internal structures, we visualized inner skeletal structures using nondestructive microfocus X‐ray computed tomography (CT) imaging. After removal of the coenosteum skeletons from the X‐ray CT images, three‐dimensional 3D‐models were reconstructed for individual corallites. Regular budding was observed from the 3D‐model and cross‐sectional images as follows: 1) lateral corallites occurred only near the two primary septa on one side, apart from a directive primary septum with distinct polarity; 2) the budding occurred upward at acute angles; and 3) these regular structures and polarity were repeated throughout growth with every generation. Even in zooxanthellate dendrophylliids, the same budding modes as observed in azooxanthellate equivalents control the colonial growth. These characteristics provide clues for understanding the mechanisms that regulate the shapes of modular marine organisms. J. Morphol. 276:1100–1108, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Foregut morphology and ontogeny of the spider crab Maja brachydactyla (Brachyura, Majoidea, Majidae)
Authors: Castejón Diego , Rotllant Guiomar , Ribes Enric , Durfort Mercè , Guerao Guillermo
Published: July 2015

We describe the morphology of the foregut of the spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922, from first larval stage to adult, with detailed stage‐specific documentation using light and scanning electron microscopy. A total of 40 ossicles have been identified in the foregut of adults of M. brachydactyla using Alizarin‐Red staining. The morphological pattern of the ossicles and gastric mill is very similar to other Majoidea species with only a few variations. The foregut of the zoeae stages appeared as a small and simple cavity, with a cardio‐pyloric valve that separates the stomach into cardiac and pyloric regions. The pyloric filter is present from the first zoea, in contrast to the brachyuran species which have an extended larval development. Calcified structures have been identified in the cardio‐pyloric valve and pyloric region of the zoeal stages. The most significant changes in foregut morphology take place after the metamorphosis from ZII to megalopa, including the occurrence of the gastric mill. In the megalopa stage, the foregut ossicles are recognizable by their organization and general morphology, but are different from the adult phase in shape and number. Moreover, the gastric teeth show important differences: the cusps of the lateral teeth are sharp (no molariform); the dorsal tooth have a small, dentate cusp (not a well‐developed quadrangular cusp); and the accessory teeth are composed of one sharp peak (instead of four sharp peaks). The gastric mill ontogeny from megalopa to adult reveals intermediate morphologies during the earlier juvenile stages. The relationship between gastric mill structures with food preferences and their contribution to the brachyuran phylogeny are briefly discussed. J. Morphol. 276:1109–1122, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Likert score 3 prostate lesions: Association between whole‐lesion ADC metrics and pathologic findings at MRI/ultrasound fusion targeted biopsy
Authors: Rosenkrantz Andrew B. , Meng Xiaosong , Ream Justin M. , Babb James S. , Deng Fang‐Ming , Rusinek Henry , Huang William C. , Lepor Herbert , Taneja Samir S.
Published: July 2015

Background

To assess associations between whole‐lesion apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) metrics and pathologic findings of Likert score 3 prostate lesions at MRI/ultrasound fusion targeted biopsy.

Methods

This retrospective Institutional Review Board‐approved study received a waiver of consent. We identified patients receiving a highest lesion score of 3 on 3 Tesla multiparametric MRI reviewed by a single experienced radiologist using a 5‐point Likert scale and who underwent fusion biopsy. A total of 188 score 3 lesions in 158 patients were included. Three‐dimensional volumes‐of‐interest encompassing each lesion were traced on ADC maps. Logistic regression was used to predict biopsy results based on whole‐lesion ADC metrics and patient biopsy history. Biopsy yield was compared between metrics.

Results

By lesion, targeted biopsy identified tumor in 22.3% and Gleason score (GS) > 6 tumor in 8.5%, although results varied by biopsy history: biopsy‐naïve (n = 80), 20.0%/8.8%; prior negative biopsy (n = 53), 9.4%/1.9%; prior positive biopsy (n = 55): 40.0%/14.5%. Biopsy history, whole‐lesion mean ADC, whole‐lesion ADC10–25, and whole‐lesion ADC25–50 were each significantly associated with tumor or GS > 6 tumor at fusion biopsy (P ≤ 0.047). In men without prior negative prostate biopsy, whole‐lesion ADC25–50 ≤ 1.04*10−3 mm2/s achieved 90.0% sensitivity and 50.0% specificity for GS > 6 tumor, which was significantly higher (P < 0.001) than specificity of PSA (17.5%) at identical sensitivity.

Conclusion

For score 3 lesions in patients without prior negative biopsy, whole‐lesion ADC metrics help detect GS > 6 cancer while avoiding negative biopsies. However, deferral of fusion biopsy may be considered for score 3 lesions in patients with prior negative biopsy (without applying whole‐lesion ADC metrics) given exceedingly low (∼ 2%) frequency of GS > 6 tumor in this group. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:325–332.
Atmospheric circulation drivers of lake inflow for the Waitaki River, New Zealand
Authors: Kingston Daniel G. , Webster Clare S. , Sirguey Pascal
Published: July 2015

Hydro‐electricity is a critical resource in New Zealand, and as such improved understanding of the drivers of water resource availability is a key research goal. Large‐scale atmospheric circulation is the principal driver of surface climate and water resource variability over New Zealand. Focusing on the Waitaki River (located in the South Island; one of the most important rivers for hydro‐electricity in New Zealand), a comprehensive analysis is presented of the large‐scale atmospheric circulation drivers of monthly inflow to the three main headwater lakes, Ohau, Pukaki and Tekapo. Analyses are undertaken using composite, correlation, partial least‐squares (PLS) regression and cross‐wavelet analyses. Environment‐to‐climate composite analysis indicates that variation in lake inflow is driven primarily by the strength of the NE–SW pressure gradient over the three lakes (i.e. parallel to the axis of the Southern Alps, from which the lakes are fed). Relatively strong winds from a north‐westerly direction are associated with high lake inflow; weaker winds from a more south‐westerly direction occur during times of low inflow. Climate‐to‐environment composites of lake inflow, together with correlation, PLS and wavelet analysis, indicate that inflow is described well by the MZ1 and MZ2 New Zealand‐based circulation indices, but not larger‐scale modes of atmospheric circulation. The MZ1 and MZ2 indices have rarely been considered previously as explanatory variables for water resources in the South Island of New Zealand, but here it is suggested that these indices represent a promising new direction for future studies, particularly relating to season‐ahead prediction of water resource availability.
Exploratory Study of Spirituality and Psychosocial Growth in College Students
Authors: Reymann Linda S. , Fialkowski Geraldine M. , Stewart‐Sicking Joseph A.
Published: July 2015

This study examined spirituality, personality, and psychosocial growth among 216 students at a small university in Maryland. Results demonstrated that faith maturity predicted unique variance in purpose in life. There was a main effect observed for gender among faith scores, as well as an interaction effect between gender and year in school among faith scores. The findings suggest that a culture that fosters students' spirituality may have positive effects on aspects of well‐being.
Ethnic Identity and Acculturative Stress as Mediators of Depression in Students of Asian Descent
Authors: Lantrip Crystal , Mazzetti Francesco , Grasso Joseph , Gill Sara , Miller Janna , Haner Morgynn , Rude Stephanie , Awad Germine
Published: July 2015

This study underscored the importance of addressing the well‐being of college students of Asian descent, because these students had higher rates of depression and lower positive feelings about their ethnic group compared with students of European descent, as measured by the Affirmation subscale of the Ethnic Identity Scale. Affirmation mediated the depression difference between these groups. Within the Asian group, affirmation and depression were inversely correlated, and this relationship was mediated by acculturative stress.
College Students With High‐Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder: Best Practices for Successful Transition to the World of Work
Authors: Dipeolu Abiola O. , Storlie Cassandra , Johnson Carol
Published: July 2015

The transition from college to work is a challenging time for students with autism spectrum disorder. College counselors who understand the challenges students face adjusting to the world of work can position themselves to be change agents for this population. This article illuminates the challenges facing these students to help close the knowledge gap of their career development trajectory. Strategies and best practices to guide these students through successful transition to the world of work are provided.
Development of an impurity‐profiling method for source identification of spilled benzene series compounds by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry: Toluene as a case study
Authors: Han Bin , Chen Junhui , Zheng Li , Zhou Tao , Li Jingxi , Wang Xiaoru , Wang Jiangtao
Published: July 2015

In this study, an impurity profiling method was established for the source identification of spilled benzene series compounds. Toluene was used as a case study to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach. Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry was applied for identification and quantification of the impurities including ethyl benzene, p‐xylene, m‐xylene, and o‐xylene in toluene. Impurities in toluene were detected at very low levels by applying mass spectrometry in selected‐ion monitoring mode. Eight authentic toluene samples collected from different manufacturers were analyzed by the developed gas chromatography with mass spectrometry method to construct the characteristic impurity profiling of toluene. Then, combined with scatter distribution, similarity analysis and t‐test, a suite of diagnostic ratios based on the impurity distribution was used for the differentiation of toluene from different sources. Results indicated that scatter distribution method can discriminate the original toluene samples from different manufacturers. Similarity calculation and t‐test methods can identify effectively the weathered toluene samples. The proposed impurity profiling method was useful for discrimination between toluene samples from different sources. Statistical analysis of these impurity profiles demonstrated the potential to investigate whether two questioned spilled toluene samples encountered in forensic casework are from the same source.
The Association of Satisfaction and Perceived Burden With Anxiety and Depression in Primary Caregivers of Dependent Elderly Relatives
Authors: del‐Pino‐Casado Rafael , Palomino‐Moral Pedro A. , Frías‐Osuna Antonio
Published: July 2015

Some researchers have viewed caregiver burden and satisfaction as two ends of the same continuum rather than as independent aspects of the caregiving experience. We conducted a cross‐sectional study of primary caregivers of dependent elderly relatives in Spain (N = 200; probabilistic sample), to determine whether satisfaction and perceived burden coexisted in caregivers, and whether these variables, considered separately and in combination, were associated with anxiety and depression, while controlling for objective aspects of care recipients' needs. Data on satisfaction with care, perceived burden, objective burden, anxiety, and depression were gathered in 2013 by interviews in caregivers' homes. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed. Of the 200 primary caregivers, 12.5% reported both high satisfaction with care and high perceived burden. Anxiety and depression levels were lower in caregivers with high satisfaction and low perceived burden than in those with low satisfaction and high burden or with high satisfaction and high burden. Our findings support the following conclusions: (1) Satisfaction may be experienced despite the presence of stressful factors; (2) the combination of high satisfaction and low burden might have protective effects on anxiety and depression in caregivers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Size Estimation of Kingsoldier Bream (Argyrops spinifer) and Evidence of Fishing Strategies
Authors: Yeomans L.
Published: July 2015

This paper provides regression formulae for size estimation of kingsoldier bream (Argyrops spinifer) from measurements taken on bones enabling the reconstruction of the size of fish present in archaeological samples. Bones of Sparidae are commonly recovered from archaeological sites bordering the Arabian Gulf, and, of the species within this family, kingsoldier bream are relatively abundant with the bones also easily identifiable. The marine environment where this fish occurs varies throughout its life cycle, and therefore the reconstructed size of the fish can be used to infer the types of location where past fishing activities took place. Comparison of the estimated size of fish caught from two Late Islamic sites on the northwest coast of Qatar, in combination with other evidence, has been used to indicate differing frequencies of fishing methods at the two sites. This variation in fishing is caused by the topography of the coast in the immediate vicinity of the sites with shallow waters providing a wide tidal zone at the northern of the two with an environment suitable for fishing with stone‐built intertidal fish traps (known in Arabic as al maskar). The topography of the coast at the southern of the two sites is steeper, and the settlement was an important trading port so the coast was utilised primarily as a harbour rather than a fishing ground. The supply of fish at this settlement was provided by fishermen more commonly using basket traps (gargoor) and handlines with fishing taking place from boats. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Almost automorphic solutions for fractional stochastic differential equations and its optimal control
Authors: Rajivganthi C. , Muthukumar P.
Published: July 2015

Fractional calculus is the field of mathematical analysis that deals with the investigation and applications of integrals, derivatives of arbitrary order. The strength of derivatives of non‐integer order is their ability to describe real situations more adequately than integer order derivatives, especially when the problem has memory or hereditary properties. This paper is mainly concerned with the square‐mean almost automorphic mild solutions to a class of fractional neutral stochastic integro‐differential equations with infinite delay driven by Poisson jumps. The existence of square‐mean almost automorphic mild solutions of the previous fractional dynamical system is proved by using the method of successive approximation. The results are formulated and proved by using the fractional calculus, solution operator, and stochastic analysis techniques. Further, the existence of optimal control of the proposed problem is also presented. An example is provided to illustrate the developed theory. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma in a pediatric population
Authors: Lerner Jonathan , Goldfarb Melanie
Published: July 2015

Background

Follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPTC) has been shown to be an intermediate entity between papillary (PTC) and follicular/Hurtle cell (FTC) thyroid carcinoma in adults. However, the tumor characteristics and prognosis of FVPTCs has not been studied in the pediatric population and is the focus of the current study

Methods

All pediatric patients ≤19 years of age with differentiated thyroid cancer (PTC, FVPTC, or FTC) were identified from the SEER registry from 1988–2009. Patients were divided into groups based on their histology. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for demographic, tumor, and treatment characteristics, as well as hazard ratios (HRs) for overall (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS) were calculated for FVPTC.

Results

Of 1,956 patients, 445 (22.7%) had FVPTC. Compared to PTCs, FVPTCs were larger (OR: 2.03, CI:1.35–3.06), node negative (OR: 2.26, CI:1.61–3.19), occurred more often in patients <15 years of age (OR: 1.58, CI:1.10–2.27), and had a partial thyroidectomy (OR: 1.61, CI:1.01–2.57). Conversely, compared to FTC, FVPTCs tumors were smaller (OR: 2.78, CI:1.70–4.53), node positive (OR: 5.26, CI:2.74–10.11), a first cancer (OR: 4.98, CI:2.48–9.99), and more often had a total thyroidectomy (OR: 2.84, CI:1.70–4.76). Only tumor size >4 cm (HR: 13.92, CI:1.24–156.72) influenced OS for patients with FVPTC. There was no significant difference in OS or DSS between groups.

Conclusions

In pediatric patients ≤19 years of age, FVPTCs have intermediate tumor features compared to PTC and FTC, but a similar OS and DSS. All pediatric patients with thyroid cancer require lifelong surveillance. However, FVPTCs >4 cm may warrant closer follow‐up due to an increased risk of death. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ceftolozane/Tazobactam: A Novel Cephalosporin/β‐Lactamase Inhibitor Combination
Authors: Cho Jonathan C. , Fiorenza Mallory A. , Estrada Sandy J.
Published: July 2015

Ceftolozane/tazobactam is a novel antipseudomonal β‐lactam/β‐lactamase inhibitor combination that is currently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of complicated intraabdominal infections (cIAI) and complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI). It exhibits bactericidal properties through inhibition of bacterial cell wall biosynthesis, which is mediated through penicillin‐binding proteins (PBPs). Ceftolozane is a potent PBP3 inhibitor and has a higher affinity for PBP1b compared with other β‐lactam agents. Ceftolozane/tazobactam differs from other cephalosporins due to its increased activity against some AmpC β‐lactamases and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The addition of tazobactam provides enhanced activity against extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producing Enterobacteriaceae and certain anaerobic organisms. Population pharmacokinetic studies for ceftolozane and ceftolozane/tazobactam are best described by a two‐compartment model with zero‐order input and linear elimination. Similar to other cephalosporins, the best pharmacodynamic property to predict efficacy for ceftolozane/tazobactam is a concentration that remains above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for 40–50% of the dosing interval. For Enterobacteriaceae and P. aeruginosa strains, the time above the MIC (T > MIC) needed to produce bactericidal activity was much less with ceftolozane than other cephalosporins, with T > MIC requirements of approximately 30%. For currently approved indications, the dose of ceftolozane/tazobactam is 1.5 g (ceftolozane 1 g/tazobactam 0.5 g) intravenously every 8 hours given as a 1‐hour infusion. Ceftolozane has low plasma protein binding (20%) and is predominantly excreted unchanged in the urine (≥92%). Dosage adjustments are required for moderate‐to‐severe renal impairment and in patients receiving hemodialysis. Based on data from clinical trials, adverse effects due to ceftolozane/tazobactam do not differ considerably from other cephalosporins, with the most common being nausea, diarrhea, headache, and pyrexia. Ceftolozane/tazobactam is a promising new agent for the treatment of cIAI and cUTI, including those caused by multidrug‐resistant gram‐negative organisms.
Bulk heterojunction thickness uniformity – a limiting factor in large area organic solar cells?
Authors: Jin Hui , Armin Ardalan , Hambsch Mike , Lin Qianqian , Burn Paul L. , Meredith Paul
Published: July 2015

It is commonly thought that inhomogeneities in the bulk heterojunction thickness of donor:acceptor organic solar cells are a major efficiency‐limiting factor in scaling to modules. This is primarily related to degradation of the charge collection efficiency associated with the thicker segments of the active layer and/or loss of fill factor from thin segments where shorting occurs. We study the former effect in two model polymer–fullerene organic solar cell blend systems with very different charge transport properties: poly(3‐n‐hexylthiophene):[6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PC60BM) and poly[N‐9”‐heptadecanyl‐2,7‐carbazole‐alt‐5,5‐(4′,7′‐di‐2‐thienyl‐2′,1′,3′‐benzothiadiazole)]:[6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCDTBT:PC70BM). We find that junction thickness inhomogeneities do not cause substantial power losses in large area cells (5 × 5 cm2 monolithic submodules) when the bimolecular recombination dynamics are suppressed, i.e., the system is non‐Langevin. This insight into the scaling physics of organic solar cells suggests that non‐Langevin materials will deliver more robust and viable large area manufacturing opportunities.
Non‐porous grooved single‐material auxetics
Authors: Mizzi Luke , Gatt Ruben , Grima Joseph N.
Published: July 2015

Over the years, great advances have been made in the field of auxetic metamaterials where one of the main focuses was the production of systems which can be produced through simple and relatively inexpensive means. In this work, auxetic systems created through the introduction of elliptical grooves, meant to mimic the rotating units mechanism, are proposed and analyzed. These systems were found to have the potential to exhibit Poisson's ratios ranging from ca.‐1 to the Poisson's ratio of the material of the system itself, with some systems also possessing the remarkable property of a zero Poisson's ratio. The final product is a non‐porous metamaterial with potentially tailor‐made Poisson's ratio properties.
CUSUM Algorithm for Detecting Translations in Gamma Distributions
Authors: Jeske Daniel R.
Published: July 2015

The cumulative sum algorithm is developed for detecting translations of in‐control gamma distributions. Efficient computing algorithms for the first two moments of the in‐control and out‐of‐control run length distribution are provided. The special case of exponential distributions is discussed in some detail as it provides an unusual context where analytical formulae are available. The results are illustrated by applying them to a network surveillance context. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Directional Visual Descriptors and Multirobot Strategies for Large‐Scale Coverage Problems
Authors: Tamassia Marco , Farinelli Alessandro , Murino Vittorio , Del Bue Alessio
Published: July 2015

Visual coverage of large‐scale environments is a key issue for several, important application scenarios, such as large‐scale three‐dimensional (3D) reconstruction, search and rescue, and active video surveillance. In this paper, we consider a setting where a group of robots, equipped with standard cameras, must fully cover a surrounding area while minimizing associated movement costs. To address this problem, we use a descriptor for visual coverage that encodes a measure of the visual information contained in an area, based on a regular discretization of the environment in voxels. In particular, our measure of coverage is related to how much of each voxel volume is “penetrated” by the bundle of rays projected from the camera center. Crucially, our descriptor explicitly encodes the viewing direction from which the voxel is observed, which is a key element to measure coverage of visual sensors. Next, we propose an autonomous cooperative exploration approach to control robot movements. Specifically, based on our visual coverage descriptor, we define a utility function to encode the value of future moves for the robots, and we select the next move for a robot by performing a greedy maximization of such utility function. Finally, we empirically evaluate our approach in a simulation scenario based on real visual data and on widely used robotic tools (such as ROS and Stage). Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms baseline random approaches (i.e., random, semirandom, and uncoordinated) and thus is a valid solution for visual coverage in large‐scale outdoor scenarios.
Towards relating delivery methods and examination success: lessons learned from the VALO LLP project case study
Authors: Rahanu Harjinder , Georgiadou Elli , Siakas Kerstin , Ekert Damjan , Messanarz Richard , Abeysinghe Geetha
Published: July 2015

Didactic, teacher‐centred approaches and rote learning have long been discredited and gradually replaced by participative, interactive and creative learning sessions. Formal classroom sessions are being replaced or augmented by self‐directed study increasingly in distance mode. The evolution and affordability of technologies enables massive participation in studies, not only for short training for professional updating but also for longer study periods and attainment of qualifications. The rapid changes in society and technology demand that everybody continuously updates their knowledge and skills in their area of expertise and gain knowledge, skills and competencies in other areas for a successful life of careers and not necessarily a career for life as was the norm in the past. It is important to safeguard the quality of independent assessment and certification methods. In this paper, we consider the main delivery methods and their impact on assessment methods and associated results. With reference to the European Certification and Qualification Association framework and the recently completed European Union co‐funded Lifelong Learning Programme project VALO, we juxtapose the delivery methods used and the examination results at different partner institutions. We extract observed issues and trends, which could be principles to be adopted by future projects with regards to process improvement and performance enhancement. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Louisiana crude oil on the sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus) during a life‐cycle exposure to laboratory oiled sediment
Authors: Raimondo Sandy , Hemmer Becky L. , Lilavois Crystal R. , Krzykwa Julie , Almario Alex , Awkerman Jill A. , Barron Mace G.
Published: July 2015

Determining the long‐term effects of crude oil exposure is critical for ascertaining population‐level ecological risks of spill events. A 19‐week complete life‐cycle experiment was conducted with the estuarine sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus) exposed to reference (uncontaminated) sediment spiked with laboratory weathered South Louisiana crude (SLC) oil at five concentrations as well as one unspiked sediment control and one seawater (no sediment) control. Newly hatched larvae were exposed to the oiled sediments at measured concentrations of < 1 (sediment control), 50, 103, 193, 347, and 711 mg total polyaromatic hydrocarbons (tPAH)/kg dry sediment. Juveniles were exposed through the reproductively active adult phase at measured concentrations of <1 (sediment control), 52, 109, 199, 358, and 751 mg tPAH/kg sediment. Throughout the exposure, fish were assessed for growth, survival, and reproduction. Resulting F1 embryos were then collected, incubated, and hatched in clean water to determine if parental full life‐cycle exposure to oiled sediment produced trans‐generational effects. Larvae experienced significantly reduced standard length (5–13% reduction) and wet weight (13–35% reduction) at concentrations at and above 50 and 103 mg tPAH/kg sediment, respectively. At 92 and 132 days post hatch (dph), standard length was reduced (7–13% reduction) at 199 and 109 mg tPAH/kg dry sediment, respectively, and wet weight for both time periods was reduced at concentrations at and above 109 mg tPAH/kg dry sediment (21–38% reduction). A significant reduction (51–65%) in F0 fecundity occurred at the two highest test concentrations, but no difference was observed in F1 embryo survival. This study is the first to report the effects of chronic laboratory exposure to oiled sediment, and will assist the development of population models for evaluating risk to benthic spawning fish species exposed to oiled sediments. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1627–1639, 2016.
Predictable Charts
Authors: McClure Erin
Published: July 2015

This article explores how to integrate reading, writing, speaking, and listening instruction by engaging students in Predictable Charts. Discover how Predictable Charts can support students with reading, writing, speaking, and listening in Kindergarten, First Grade, or Special Education classrooms. Through this article, learn the steps to implementing this weeklong supportive, interactive, and engaging instructional practice.
Outage performance of relay selection with spatially random relays using RF energy harvesting
Authors: Liu Kuang‐Hao
Published: July 2015

To enable green wireless networks, one appealing approach is to deploy energy harvesting (EH) relays to assist the source transmission. Unlike conventional relays relying on fixed power supplies, EH relays make use of the energy collected from the RF radiation of the source node, and thus, they do not introduce extra energy cost to the network. This paper presents an analytical study to assess the efficacy of EH relays when the one with the maximal end‐to‐end signal‐to‐noise ratio is selected to perform data relaying while others perform EH. Because the action (either harvesting energy or forwarding data) of one EH relay affects those of others, exact performance analysis is not tractable. Additionally, relay density and positions may be random, which further complicates the analysis. Our analysis is conducted based on the hypothesis that each EH relay has an equal chance to be selected. This hypothesis allows for analytical tractability and is of importance to EH relays because otherwise some may drain their batteries fast. We identify the conditions under which the aforementioned hypothesis is valid. Our analysis also considers two variants of amplify‐and‐forward relays with and without using channel state information. Numerical results are presented to validate the analysis accuracy along with extensive discussions on the impact of numerous system parameters. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Game of energy consumption balancing in heterogeneous sensor networks
Authors: Khanmirza Hamed , Yazdani Nasser
Published: July 2015

In a multi‐hop sensor network, sensors largely rely on other nodes as a traffic relay to communicate with targets that are not reachable by one hop. Depending on the topology and position of nodes, some sensors receive more relaying traffic and lose their energy faster. Such imbalanced energy consumption may lead to server problems like network partitioning. In this paper, we study the problem of energy consumption balancing (ECB) in heterogeneous sensor networks by assuming general any‐to‐any traffic pattern. We consider both factors of transmission power and forwarding load in measuring energy consumption. To find a solution, we formulate the problem as a strategic network formation game with a new utility function. We show that this game is guaranteed to converge to strongly connected topologies which have better ECB and bounded inefficiency. We propose a localized algorithm in which every node knows only about its k‐hop neighbourhood. Through simulations on uniform and clustered networks with various densities, we show that the performance of our algorithm is comparable with global and centralized algorithms. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Topological Modeling of Reconstructive Phase Transitions through Periodic Surfaces: Tin Dioxide I – A Calcium Chloride to Palladium Fluoride Type Transition
Authors: Bieri‐Gross Barbara , Nesper Reinhard
Published: July 2015

First order phase transitions in solids are under thermodynamic as well as kinetic control. Different from molecular modelling we focus here on tracing cooperative rearrangements of groups of atoms by help of periodic equisurfaces (PES) derived from selected structure factors, which are common to the structures under consideration. Such drastic Fourier filtering is very helpful in deriving the cooperative pictures of first order phase transitions. This report analyses the transition of SnO2 from the calcium chloride modification to the cubic high pressure form called “Pa3 phase”. An outline is given how to define a common unit cell for the two limiting structures based on the assumption of smallest net diffusion, i.e. conserving most structural features. Our approach garanties a minimum of integral displacement but has only indirect relation to energy considerations, such as small unit cells, short pathways and preservation of dominat structural features.
A Novel Facile Room Temperature Chemical Lithiation for Reduction of Eu3+ in NASICON Crystal Structure
Authors: Wang Jiao , Zhang Zhi‐Jun , Zhao Jing‐Tai
Published: July 2015

Facile and effective synthesis strategy is dramatically desirable for basic studies and practical applications of Eu2+ luminescent materials. In this work, facile chemical lithiation is used for reduction of trivalent Eu3+ ions into divalent Eu2+ ions in Eu1/3Zr2(PO4)3 crystal structure using nBu‐Li solution at room temperature. VUV/Vis luminescence properties, X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES), and magnetic properties were used to characterize the valence state of Eu ions in crystal structure of host lattice. The emission light color changes from orange‐red [Eu1/3Zr2(PO4)3] to blue‐green [LixEuIIxEuIII1/3–xZr2(PO4)3], and the samples are paramagnetic after this facile chemical lithiation. The ultra‐fast decay time (<50 ns) of Li0.286EuII0.286EuIII0.047Zr2(PO4)3 is attributed to the luminescence quenching effects of Eu3+ and Eu2+ co‐existing in the crystal structure. All the results indicate that this chemical lithiation method is a facile and effective method for Eu2+ luminescent materials fabrication and LixEuIIxEuIII1/3–xZr2(PO4)3 is a potential luminescent material.