bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐invasive diagnosis and treatment strategies for traumatic brain injury: an update
Authors: Joseph Bellal , Khan Muhammad , Rhee Peter
Published: August 2017

Purpose of review

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in U.S. Since the last decade, there have been several advances in the understanding and management of TBI that have shown the potential to improve outcomes. The aim of this review is to provide a useful overview of these potential diagnostic and treatment strategies that have yet to be proven, along with an assessment of their impact on outcomes after a TBI.

Recent findings

Recent technical advances in the management of a TBI are grounded in a better understanding of the pathophysiology of primary and secondary insult to the brain after a TBI. Hence, clinical trials on humans should proceed in order to evaluate their efficacy and safety.

Mortality associated with TBI remains high. Nonetheless, new diagnostic and therapeutic techniques have the potential to enhance early detection and prevention of secondary brain insult.
Introducing the concept of “CSF‐shift edema” in traumatic brain injury
Authors: Cherian Iype , Beltran Margarita , Landi Alessandro , Alafaci Concetta , Torregrossa Fabio , Grasso Giovanni
Published: August 2017

Brain edema after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) plays an important role in the outcome and survival of injured patients. It is also one of the main targets in the therapeutic approach in the current clinical practice. To date, the pathophysiology of traumatic brain swelling is complex and, being that it is thought to be mainly cytotoxic and vasogenic in origin, not yet entirely understood. However, based on new understandings of the hydrodynamic aspects of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), an additional mechanism of brain swelling can be considered. An increase in pressure into the subarachnoid space, secondary to traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage, would result in a rapid shift of CSF from the cisterns, through the paravascular spaces, into the brain, resulting in an increase of brain water content. This mechanism of brain swelling would be termed as “CSF‐shift edema.”

This “CSF‐shift,” promoted by a pressure gradient, leads to increased pressure inside the paravascular spaces and the interstitium of the brain, disturbing the functions of the paravascular system, with implications of secondary brain injury.

Cisternostomy, an emerging surgical treatment, would reverse the direction of the CSF‐shift, allowing for a decrease in brain swelling. In addition, this technique would reduce the pressure in the paravascular spaces and interstitium, leading to a recovery of the functionality of the paravascular system.
Monitoring quality consistency of Liuwei Dihuang Pill by integrating the ultraviolet spectroscopic fingerprint, a multi‐wavelength fusion fingerprint method, and antioxidant activities
Authors: Yan Bo , Sun Guoxiang
Published: August 2017

Liuwei Dihuang Pill, a classical traditional Chinese medicine, has been widely used to treat kidney yin deficiency in China for hundreds of years. Little attention, however, has been paid to quality control methods for this formulation. In the present study, we aimed to establish a comprehensive and practical quality evaluation system for Liuwei Dihuang Pill. Thus, ultraviolet spectroscopic fingerprints and multi‐wavelength fusion fingerprints have been proposed for quality consistency evaluation of the popular patent. The similarity analysis of Liuwei Dihuang Pill samples was evaluated by systematic quantitative fingerprint method from qualitative and quantitative perspectives. The results showed that 26 batches of samples were classified into five grades for fusion fingerprints and three grades for ultraviolet spectroscopic fingerprints. Moreover, the fingerprint–efficacy correlation was also established and confirmed through the partial least squares model to visualize the antioxidant activity of Liuwei Dihuang Pill in vitro. In conclusion, these results indicated that integrating ultraviolet spectroscopic fingerprints and multi‐wavelength fusion fingerprints coupled with antioxidant activities provide a rapid and effective approach to monitor the quality consistency of Liuwei Dihuang Pill.
Use of multiple‐locus variable‐number of tandem repeats analysis (MLVA) to investigate genetic diversity of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium isolates from human, food, and veterinary sources
Authors: Mateva Gergana , Pedersen Karl , Sørensen Gitte , Asseva Galina , Daskalov Hristo , Petrov Petar , Kantardjiev Todor , Alexandar Irina , Löfström Charlotta
Published: August 2017

Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Typhimurium is the most common zoonotic pathogen in Bulgaria. To allow efficient outbreak investigations and surveillance in the food chain, accurate and discriminatory methods for typing are needed. This study evaluated the use of multiple‐locus variable‐number of tandem repeats analysis (MLVA) and compared results with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) determinations for 100 S. Typhimurium strains isolated in Bulgaria during 2008–2012 (50 veterinary/food and 50 human isolates). Results showed that isolates were divided into 80 and 34 groups using MLVA and AMR, respectively. Simpson's index of diversity was determined to 0.994 ± 0.003 and 0.945 ± 0.012. The most frequently encountered MLVA profiles were 3‐11‐9‐NA‐211 (n = 5); 3‐12‐9‐NA‐211 (n = 3); 3‐12‐11‐21‐311 (n = 3); 3‐17‐10‐NA‐311 (n = 3); 2‐20‐9‐7‐212 (n = 3); and 2‐23‐NA‐NA‐111 (n = 3). No clustering of isolates related to susceptibility/resistance to antimicrobials, source of isolation, or year of isolation was observed. Some MLVA types were found in both human and veterinary/food isolates, indicating a possible route of transmission. A majority (83%) of the isolates were found to be resistant against at least one antimicrobial and 44% against ≥4 antimicrobials. Further studies are needed to verify MLVA usefulness over a longer period of time and with more isolates, including outbreak strains.
Usage of multicriteria decision‐making support arsenal for strategic planning in environmental protection sphere
Authors: Tsyganok Vitaliy , Kadenko Sergii , Andriychuk Oleg , Roik Pavlo
Published: August 2017

This paper outlines an approach to strategic planning, based on decision‐making support methods. It provides a description of a step‐by‐step procedure, allowing the decision maker to build a strategy, targeted at solution of some weakly structured problem or at achievement of some complex goal, influenced by multiple tangible and intangible criteria. Criteria are formulated by experts and arranged into a hierarchy, as prescribed by the analytic hierarchy process. Relative weights of criteria are calculated on the basis of expert estimates, using the combinatorial approach, which is, in a way, an extension of analytic hierarchy process toolkit. In the context of this paper, a strategy is defined as the optimal way of currently available resource distribution among specific factors or projects, which influence the main goal of a strategic plan. Each project is characterized by certain funding volume constraints (minimum and maximum resource amounts) as well as time frames (launching and completion or termination dates). As an example of implementation of our approach, we consider a case of resource distribution among environmental projects.
Clinical verification of genetic results returned to research participants: findings from a Colon Cancer Family Registry
Authors: Laurino Mercy Y. , Truitt Anjali R. , Tenney Lederle , Fisher Douglass , Lindor Noralane M. , Veenstra David , Jarvik Gail P. , Newcomb Polly A. , Fullerton Stephanie M.
Published: August 2017

Background

The extent to which participants act to clinically verify research results is largely unknown. This study examined whether participants who received Lynch syndrome (LS)‐related findings pursued researchers’ recommendation to clinically verify results with testing performed by a CLIA‐certified laboratory.

Methods

The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center site of the multinational Colon Cancer Family Registry offered non‐CLIA individual genetic research results to select registry participants (cases and their enrolled relatives) from 2011 to 2013. Participants who elected to receive results were counseled on the importance of verifying results at a CLIA‐certified laboratory. Twenty‐six (76.5%) of the 34 participants who received genetic results completed 2‐ and 12‐month postdisclosure surveys; 42.3% of these (11/26) participated in a semistructured follow‐up interview.

Results

Within 12 months of result disclosure, only 4 (15.4%) of 26 participants reported having verified their results in a CLIA‐certified laboratory; of these four cases, all research and clinical results were concordant. Reasons for pursuing clinical verification included acting on the recommendation of the research team and informing future clinical care. Those who did not verify results cited lack of insurance coverage and limited perceived personal benefit of clinical verification as reasons for inaction.

Conclusion

These findings suggest researchers will need to address barriers to seeking clinical verification in order to ensure that the intended benefits of returning genetic research results are realized.
A wideband single‐layer crossover using substrate integrated waveguide to grounded coplanar waveguide transition
Authors: Bagheri Alireza , Moradi Gholamreza
Published: August 2017

This letter presents a wideband planar crossover for application in circuits based on substrate integrated waveguide (SIW). The proposed structure uses SIW to grounded coplanar waveguide (GCPW) transition, which facilitates crossing of two waves in the same substrate without considerable leakage. The coplanar waveguide (CPW) is used in the core part of this crossover, which provides a high isolation. GCPW lines are tapered and connected to CPW lines, resulting in a wideband matching. The proposed design has been verified via full wave electromagnetic simulation and experimental test. The crossover dimensions with SIW excitation is 40 mm × 40 mm and its isolation across 9–18 GHz band is more than 20 dB.
A paper based 2‐element antenna for WLAN MIMO applications fabricated using inkjet technology
Authors: Wignes Francesca L. , Glascoe Cody , Makar Gregory , Karakolak Tutku , Sekhar Praveen
Published: August 2017

A compact 2‐element antenna for MIMO applications with performance across the WLAN frequency bands is designed and fabricated on paper with a FUJI Film Dimatix 2800 material printer and conductive ink. This antenna is ∼1.1 cm × 3.5 cm and utilizes co‐planar feeding techniques and ground design to allow for resonance in the 2.4 and 5 GHz frequency bands with a minimum 800‐MHz bandwidth. The design is established using commercially available products for minimal processing. Factors such as ink handling, printing conditions, and paper selection are discussed qualitatively as they relate to antenna fabrication and performance. Successful simulation and fabrication is reported with low correlation, high isolation, and low reflection.
Size‐reduction balanced UWB BPF design using meander slotline and its mirror structure with the microstrip feed
Authors: Ho Min‐Hua , Hong Wanchu , Chang Geng‐Gui
Published: August 2017

The contribution of this work is to propose a size‐reduction design of a balanced UWB BPF using a meander slotline together with its mirror structure. The size reduction is accomplished by meandering the slotline. The proposed circuit is excited by a vertically oriented feeding microstrip. The meander slotline combined its mirror one exhibits a wideband response as well as the one of an ordinary slotline. However, the former together with the microstrip feed, which perfectly preserves the structural symmetry, has a much smaller circuit size. This structural symmetry of the circuit renders itself suitable in the balanced circuit design. Thus, a smallest balanced UWB BPF in the slotline‐alike structure category is realized.
Investigation of microstrip‐fed low‐profile broadband circularly polarized rectangular dielectric resonator antennas
Authors: Zhang Bohan , Zhang Jingwei , Liu Chengguo , Wu Zhi
Published: August 2017

A microstrip‐fed low‐profile broadband circularly polarized rectangular dielectric resonator antenna (RDRA) suitable for WLAN applications based on IEEE 802.11.a standards was designed and tested. In addition, a new iterative method for the estimation of resonance frequency with the consideration of the effect of the substrate was investigated in this article. The RDRA exhibits broadband and circular polarization (CP) by utilizing the asymmetrical offset feeding mechanism to excite two orthogonal degenerate modes (
and
). The RDRA provides the impedance bandwidths (|S11| < −10 dB) of 10.2% and the axial ratio (AR) bandwidth (AR < 3 dB) of 1.8%. Good agreements between the simulated and measured results have been obtained.
Tunable dual‐band filtering power divider with constant bandwidth and high selectivity
Authors: Wu Bian , Xu Yang , Wu Yufeng , Zhang Xiuyin
Published: August 2017

A tunable dual‐band filtering power divider with constant bandwidth and high selectivity is proposed, which incorporates a wideband power divider with two tunable dual‐band filters. The filter provides a tunable dual‐mode dual‐band filtering response, and realizes a 90° phase shift to replace the middle quarter wavelength transmission line. As the bias voltage increases, the lower band increases from 1.1 to 1.5 GHz with a constant bandwidth of 40 MHz, while the higher band remains at 2.17 GHz with a fixed bandwidth of 60 MHz. During the wide tuning range, the return loss and isolation are always >15 dB, with a high selectivity due to multiple transmission zeros.
Wideband circularly polarized antenna array using sequential phase feed structure and U‐shaped radiating patch elements for S‐band applications
Authors: Rasekhmanesh Mohammad Hosein , Piroutiniya Asrin , Mohammadi Pejman
Published: August 2017

In this article, a 2 × 2 circular polarized (CP) antenna array, which is using sequential rotation (SR) technique in feeding network, has been introduced. The feeding network uses two 90° arcs and several rectangular lines with the same width. The length of these elements is multiple of λg/4 to produce 90° phase difference in 4 outputs of feeding network. By connecting the patch elements to the feeding network, which have been surrounded with radiating patch elements, design of 2 × 2 patch array has been completed. This array antenna with an incomplete ground which helps to have a better impedance matching, has been caused to reach a wider axial ratio (AR) and impedance bandwidth. The prototype of the proposed antenna array is built to validate the antenna performance. By using these techniques, a common bandwidth of 1.15 GHz has been achieved for impedance bandwidth (S11 < 10 dB) and AR bandwidth (AR < 3 dB) and 7.5 dBi maximum gain. In addition, the gain is more than 4 dBi in desired frequency range. According to the frequency range of 2.8‐3.95 GHz, the proposed antenna is suitable for S‐band applications.
Hexa‐band printed monopole antenna for wireless applications
Authors: Sethi Waleed Tariq , Vettikalladi Hamsakutty , Fathallah Habib , Himdi Mohamed
Published: August 2017

In this letter, a hexa‐band printed monopole antenna composed of various L‐shape radiating elements is presented for various wireless applications. The antenna is designed to fully cover the CDMA (870–890 MHz), GSM (900–1800 MHz), DCS (1710–1880 MHz), PCS (1900 MHz), LTE‐E/LTE‐D (2300–2800 MHz), and WLAN (2.45/5.8 GHz) frequency bands. The proposed antenna achieves a gain of 1.8 dB, 3.17 dB, 3.23 dB, and 5.82 dB at respective bands. Fabrication of the antenna is completed on Rogers RT‐5880 high frequency laminate with a finite ground plane having a rectangular slot on the other side of the substrate. The antenna is realized via standard printed circuit board (PCB) technology and its performance is validated by measurements in terms of s‐parameters and radiation characteristics.
Transmission of 51.2 Gb/s 16 QAM single carrier signal in a MIMO radio‐over‐fiber system at W‐band
Authors: Wang Kaihui , Yu Jianjun
Published: August 2017

We experimentally demonstrate a 2 × 2 Multiple‐Input Multiple‐Output radio‐over‐fiber system at W‐band and successfully realize a single carrier 16 quadrature amplitude modulation transmission through 100 km single‐mode fiber and 40m W‐band wireless link with a net bitrate of 51.2 Gb/s. Two pairs of Cassegrain antennas are used in the wireless link, between which the isolation can be promised by adopting antenna polarization (H&V) multiplexing.
Size reduction and harmonic suppression in branch line couplers implemented by means of capacitively loaded slow‐wave transmission lines
Authors: Coromina Jan , Selga Jordi , Vélez Paris , Bonache Jordi , Martín Ferran
Published: August 2017

A systematic approach for the design of compact branch‐line hybrid couplers with harmonic suppression is proposed in this article. The couplers are implemented by means of slow‐wave artificial transmission lines based on patch capacitors. It is shown in this article that the number of unit cells of the artificial lines should not be arbitrary. Specifically, it is demonstrated that to efficiently suppress the harmonic bands of the coupler and simultaneously keep the response of the coupler unaltered in the region of interest, two unit cells are required. Based on the proposed design methodology, a compact branch line coupler with 46% size, as compared to the ordinary counterpart, and efficient rejection of the first and second harmonic bands, is reported in this article. The designed coupler exhibits good performance in the region of interest, very similar to one of the conventional coupler.
Three‐centimeter wave band antenna with controlled polarization based on reflective grating
Authors: Pasternak Yuriy G. , Proskurin Dmitrv K. , Fedorov Sergey M. , Sherstyuk Oleg I.
Published: August 2017

A mathematical model for analysis of metal‐dielectric structures with various profile of grating grooves was designed. Model is based on combined use of integral equations methods and generalized scattering matrices. Created and studied a prototype of planar diffraction antenna with periodic metal‐dielectric structures in its construction.
Secure visible light communication system with liquid crystal cell modulation
Authors: Wang Chun‐Qi , Kwon Do‐Hoon , Yang Se‐Hoon , Han Sang‐Kook
Published: August 2017

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a secure visible light communication (VLC) system using light‐emitting diode and liquid crystal cell. By employing this secure VLC system, transmitted data with useful message can be well protected and received by authorized users. After applying the pre‐emphasis and zero‐padding technique, clear eye diagrams and high bit error rate performance for the deciphered signal were obtained. We also report the optimal amplitude range for original message data and encryption signals. In addition, the influence of the proposed security process on the broadcast VLC system was explored.
Miniaturized dual‐band PCB inverted F/L antenna for nano‐satellite application
Authors: Soghi Sahar , Mohseni Armaki Seyyed Hossein , Fartookzadeh Mahdi
Published: August 2017

This article presents the design and implementation of a miniaturized dual‐band PCB inverted F/L antenna, with right‐handed circular polarization (CP) for Nano‐satellite application. This antenna has been designed in UHF/VHF amateur radio frequency bands, 144 and 435 MHz, which have been allocated for these applications. The proposed design is composed of four spiral‐shaped lines, printed on a FR‐4 substrate. Dimensions of each antenna are only 6.8 × 23.38 cm2, and they have been driven by 90 degrees phase difference in order to generate CP. Bandwidth and axial ratio of the antenna is about 1% and 1.68 dB in VHF, and is about 4% and 0.37 dB in UHF, respectively. A prototype of proposed antenna has been manufactured and tested. It will be shown that the simulation results are in good agreement with the measurements.
Simplified design, simulation, and lab‐environment measurement scheme for retro‐directive antenna arrays
Authors: Hannan Abdul , Hasan Azhar , Tarar Munir Ahmad
Published: August 2017

Retro‐directive antenna arrays are capable to reflect back an incoming signal in source direction just like corner reflectors. Retro‐directive antenna arrays do not use complex and expensive phase shifters or smart antennas to steer their beam. These arrays steer beam autonomously in source direction by reversing progressive phase induced by incident signal. Two basic designs of retro‐directive antenna array are Van Atta array and Phase Conjugating array. A simplified design for phase conjugating array is proposed in this article. Moreover, RF measurement and testing in Lab environment need special schemes to cater for issues of multipath, far field reflections, and mutual interference. Therefore, a specially designed lab environment testing methodology is proposed and validation of retro‐directive response of developed phase conjugating array using proposed testing methodology is also presented in the article.
An approach of the diffraction loss prediction using artificial neural network in hilly mountainous terrain
Authors: Lee Changwon , Park Sungkwon
Published: August 2017

An artificial neural network based diffraction model for hilly mountainous terrain is proposed. The proposed diffraction model is applied to predict the path in the case of non‐line‐of‐sight. The input parameters of the proposed model are presented and their performance in the path loss prediction is compared with the results from traditional empirical diffraction models using measurement data taken in mountain areas.
Bioinspired transparent antenna for WLAN application in 5 GHz
Authors: Silva Júnior P. F. , Freire R. C. S. , Serres A. J. R. , Catunda S. Y. , Silva P. H. da F.
Published: August 2017

In this paper is developed a transparent antenna, bioinspired in ingae edulis mart plants, build in Indio Tin Oxide film, and flexible transparent dielectric of low cost (cellulose acetate), generated by Gielis formula, for wireless local area network application in 5 GHz (5.15–5.85 GHz). The measured bioinspired transparent antenna presented bandwidth of 4.11 GHz (4.50‐8.66 GHz), covering the WLAN band, with maximum gain of 5.44 dBi, and half power beamwidth of 126° at resonance frequency.
A forecasting strategy based on wireless sensing for thermal comfort optimization in smart buildings
Authors: Viani Federico , Polo Alessandro
Published: August 2017

The prediction of thermal comfort in smart buildings is addressed in this article to support the energy manager in the management of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. An efficient control is fundamental to meet the user satisfaction as well as the energy cost reduction. The proposed method based on a customized support vector regression technique predicts and suggests to the energy managers the indoor target temperature required to obtain the desired comfort throughout the building. A network of low‐cost wireless sensors has been deployed to measure the indoor conditions of a real indoor scenario. The prediction performance has been experimentally validated and the obtained results have pointed out a temperature prediction error lower than 1°C and the achievement of the thermal comfort requirements.
Comprehensive study of the drying behavior of Boom clay: Experimental investigation and numerical modeling
Authors: Hubert Julien , Plougonven Erwan , Prime Noémie , Léonard Angélique , Collin Frédéric
Published: August 2017

This paper presents a thermo‐hydro‐mechanical framework to model the drying behavior of Boom clay. First, the experimental campaign conducted Noémie Prime is briefly presented because it is used to validate the model. The data acquisition and processing is emphasized because of the use of X‐ray microtomography to be able to more accurately compare experimental and numerical strain fields. The different submodels are introduced. Numerical simulations are performed to illustrate the capability of the proposed model to reproduce the observed behavior. Finally, a comprehensive sensitivity study on several key model parameters associated with the water retention curve, and the permeability of the medium, is performed to get a better understanding of the physics behind the coupled model.
A stabilized finite element method for a fictitious domain problem allowing small inclusions
Authors: Barrenechea Gabriel R. , González Cheherazada
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this work is to approximate numerically an elliptic partial differential equation posed on domains with small perforations (or inclusions). The approach is based on the fictitious domain method, and as the method's interest lies in the case in which the geometrical features are not resolved by the mesh, we propose a stabilized finite element method. The stabilization term is a simple, non‐consistent penalization that can be linked to the Barbosa‐Hughes approach. Stability and convergence are proved, and numerical results confirm the theory.
Interdigitated crystalline MMT‐MCA: Preparation and characterization
Authors: Zhao Min , Yi Deqi , Camino Giovanni , Frache Alberto , Yang Rongjie
Published: August 2017

A novel nanomaterial, montmorillonite–melamine cyanurate (MMT‐MCA), was successfully synthesized, in which the number of MCA layers in between 2 MMT layers can be controlled at 1 or a very large value (over 100 nm thick). Its interdigitated crystalline structure was thoroughly characterized. The MMT‐MCA shows outstanding dispersion ability in different polymers to easily prepare MMT nanocomposites by melt blending due to the π‐π stacking exfoliation between MCA layers. The paper opens the way to the synthesis of novel interdigitated nanomaterials.
A reference range of fetal abdominal circumference growth velocity between 20 and 36 weeks' gestation
Authors: Vannuccini Silvia , Ioannou Christos , Cavallaro Angelo , Volpe Grazia , Ruiz‐Martinez Sara , Impey Lawrence
Published: August 2017

Objective

To create a single equation and reference range for abdominal circumference growth velocity (ACGV) between 20 and 36 weeks in singleton pregnancies.

Method

Observational study of pregnant women having routine scans for abdominal circumference (AC) at 20 and 36 weeks' gestation. Exclusion criteria were multiple pregnancy, abnormal karyotype, major fetal abnormalities, and absent data on first‐trimester dating. Scan image quality and AC measurement reliability were assessed according to INTERGROWTH‐21st criteria. Regression models for the AC mean and standard deviation were fitted separately at 20 and 36 weeks, and z scores were calculated. Abdominal circumference growth velocity was defined as the z score difference between 20 and 36 weeks divided by the interval in days and multiplied by 100.

Results

The study population included 3334 fetuses. The equation for ACGV is (((AC36 − 53.090 − 1.081*GA36)/(0.057638*GA36 + 0.622741)) − ((AC20 + 68.349 − 1.571*GA20)/(0.06265*GA20 − 2.55361)))*100/(GA36 − GA20), where AC is expressed in millimeters and GA is gestational age in days. The 3rd, 5th, 10th, 50th, 90th, 95th, and 97th centiles are −1.8997, −1.6785, −1.3091, −0.0069, 1.3255, 1.7279, 1.9973, respectively.

Conclusion

We have defined ACGV between 20 and 36 weeks, and we have established its reference range. Further studies are needed to evaluate the clinical significance of growth patterns in the tail ends of this distribution.
A Parsimonious Explanation of the Resilient, Undercontrolled, and Overcontrolled Personality Types
Authors: Rosenström Tom , Jokela Markus
Published: August 2017

Researchers applying clustering methods have found that the five most commonly studied personality traits (the ‘Big Five’) appear to form three prototypes, known as resilient, undercontrolled, and overcontrolled (RUO) personality types. The analysis has been replicated cross–nationally, and the results have been reasonably robust. However, these findings do not necessarily imply discontinuities or non–linearities in the Big Five data. We study whether the RUO types can arise from typical Big Five intercorrelations alone. We used data from a previous meta–analysis of inter–trait correlations ( N = 144 117 participants) and simulated normally distributed observations with this correlation structure. Applying three different clustering algorithms ( k–means, hierarchical agglomerative, and model based) with three–cluster solutions to the simulated data, we examined whether the known correlations alone can give rise to the RUO typology. The simulated results were compared with previous empirical findings. A simple multivariate normal distribution with the Big Five correlation structure was sufficient to generate the RUO typology in three–cluster solutions for all the three clustering methods. Contrary to the RUO typology ‘carving personality description at its joints’, linear correlations typical for correlations among Big Five traits can create RUO types even in the absence of any points of discontinuity. Copyright © 2017 European Association of Personality Psychology
Research on Preparation of Perfusion Explosive Using Foamed SF‐3 Double‐Base Propellant
Authors: Zhang Di , Wei Xiao'an , He Weidong , Chen Feiyun , Wang Zeshan
Published: August 2017

Perfusion explosives were prepared using foamed SF‐3 propellants, which were synthesized by a two‐stage batch foaming process with different saturation time in supercritical fluid CO2 as a foaming agent. The foamed SF‐3 propellants were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Underwater detonation tests and test‐board detonation tests were carried out to investigate detonation performance of the prepared perfusion explosives. Results showed that more saturation time during the foaming process leads to more pores and cracks. Perfusion explosives prepared using foamed SF‐3 propellants exhibited much higher shock wave energy and stronger damage effectiveness than those using unfoamed SF‐3 propellants. Perfusion explosives prepared using foamed SF‐3 propellants with a saturation time of 2 h exhibited the highest shock wave energy and damage effectiveness, which decreased as the saturation time increased.
How fast monoamine oxidases decompose adrenaline? Kinetics of isoenzymes A and B evaluated by empirical valence bond simulation
Authors: Oanca Gabriel , Stare Jernej , Mavri Janez
Published: August 2017

This work scrutinizes kinetics of decomposition of adrenaline catalyzed by monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B enzymes, a process controlling the levels of adrenaline in the central nervous system and other tissues. Experimental kinetic data for MAO A and B catalyzed decomposition of adrenaline are reported only in the form of the maximum reaction rate. Therefore, we estimated the experimental free energy barriers form the kinetic data of closely related systems using regression method, as was done in our previous study. By using multiscale simulation on the Empirical Valence Bond (EVB) level, we studied the chemical reactivity of the MAO A catalyzed decomposition of adrenaline and we obtained a value of activation free energy of 17.3 ± 0.4 kcal/mol. The corresponding value for MAO B is 15.7 ± 0.7 kcal/mol. Both values are in good agreement with the estimated experimental barriers of 16.6 and 16.0 kcal/mol for MAO A and MAO B, respectively. The fact that we reproduced the kinetic data and preferential catalytic effect of MAO B over MAO A gives additional support to the validity of the proposed hydride transfer mechanism. Furthermore, we demonstrate that adrenaline is preferably involved in the reaction in a neutral rather than in a protonated form due to considerably higher barriers computed for the protonated adrenaline substrate. The results are discussed in the context of chemical mechanism of MAO enzymes and possible applications of multiscale simulation to rationalize the effects of MAO activity on adrenaline level.
Evaluating the potential for weed seed dispersal based on waterfowl consumption and seed viability
Authors: Farmer Jaime A , Webb Elisabeth B , Pierce Robert A , Bradley Kevin W
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Migratory waterfowl have often been implicated in the movement of troublesome agronomic and wetland weed species. However, minimal research has been conducted to investigate the dispersal of agronomically important weed species by waterfowl. The two objectives for this project were to determine what weed species are being consumed by ducks and snow geese, and to determine the recovery rate and viability of 13 agronomic weed species after passage through a duck's digestive system.

RESULTS

Seed recovered from digestive tracts of 526 ducks and geese harvested during a 2‐year field study had 35 020 plants emerge. A greater variety of plant species emerged from ducks each year (47 and 31 species) compared to geese (11 and 3 species). Viable seed from 11 of 13 weed species fed to ducks in a controlled feeding study were recovered. Viability rate and gut retention times indicated potential dispersal up to 2900 km from the source depending on seed characteristics and variability in waterfowl dispersal distances.

CONCLUSIONS

Study results confirm that waterfowl are consuming seeds from a variety of agronomically important weed species, including Palmer amaranth, which can remain viable after passage through digestive tracts and have potential to be dispersed over long distances by waterfowl. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Composition and Size Dependence of Alloying in Ni–Al Nanoparticles With Icosahedral and Rhombohedral Configurations: An Atomic Simulation Study
Authors: Yang Jianyu , Hu Wangyu , Dai Xiongying
Published: August 2017

The surface segregation and alloying of Ni–Al nanoparticles with icosahedral and rhombohedral configurations are studied via Monte Carlo simulations based on the analytic embedded atom model. The simulation shows that the alloying between Ni and Al at nanolevel is beneficial for all the studied nanoparticles. For the Ni–Al nanoalloy with icosahedral configuration, the excess energy is negative for all the compositions. This result indicates an energetic preference for the alloying of Ni and Al. The minimum excess energy decreases with increasing nanoalloy size because of the low surface–volume ratio. The compositions of Ni corresponding to the minimum excess energy increase linearly from 51.5 to 60.5% with increasing nanoalloy size. Among all the considered icosahedra and rhombohedra at the same size, the energy of the rhombohedra at the composition of 1:1, which are arranged on B2 crystal, is the smallest. With increasing nanoparticle size, the excess energies of the icosahedra at the 3:1 composition and the rhombohedra at the 1:1 composition increase. By contrast, the excess energy of the icosahedra at the 1:3 composition decreases. The result can be attributed to the competition between the Al surface segregation and alloying between Ni and Al.
Electronic Dynamics in Graphene and MoS2 Systems
Authors: Márk Géza I. , Fejér Gyöngyi R. , Vancsó Péter , Lambin Philippe , Biró László P.
Published: August 2017

We performed wave packet dynamical calculations for graphene‐ and MoS2 monolayers by a new formulation of the split‐operator FFT method utilizing ab initio band structure results into the kinetic energy operator. While the time dependent dynamics is available through the solution of the time dependent Schrödinger equation in wave packet dynamics, the energy dependent dynamics is calculated by the application of the time–energy Fourier transform to the wave function. Time dependent probability results show an anisotropic spreading of the probability density current. The magnitude and angular dependence of the anisotropy is dependent (i) on the process creating the initial wave packet (e.g., injection from an STM tip or scattering on an impurity) and (ii) on the details of the band structure.
Ensemble‐type Kalman filter algorithm conserving mass, total energy and enstrophy
Authors: Zeng Yuefei , Janjić Tijana , Ruckstuhl Yvonne , Verlaan Martin
Published: August 2017

For numerical discretization schemes, the violation of enstrophy conservation causes a systematic and unrealistic energy cascade towards high wave numbers. The same occurs in data assimilation schemes, where the total energy, enstrophy and divergence could be strongly affected. In this article, we construct an ensemble data assimilation algorithm that conserves mass, total energy and enstrophy. The algorithm uses B‐spline functions for localization and sequential quadratic programming to solve nonlinear constrained minimization problem. Idealized experiments are performed using a 2D shallow‐water model, with selected contraints derived from the nature run. It is found that all experiments exhibit comparable root‐mean‐square errors, with a slight advantage for those that include the conservation constraint on the globally integrated enstrophy. However, the kinetic energy and enstrophy spectra in experiments with the enstrophy constraint are considerably closer to the true spectra, in particular at the smallest resolvable scales. Therefore, imposing conservation of enstrophy within the data assimilation algorithm effectively avoids the spurious energy cascade of the rotational part and thereby successfully suppresses the noise generated by the data assimilation algorithm. The 14 day deterministic free forecast, starting from the initial condition enforced by both total energy and enstrophy constraints, produces the best prediction. The same holds for the ensemble free forecasts.
Rapid ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry and selected reaction monitoring strategy for the identification and quantification of minor spinacetin derivatives in spinach
Authors: Singh Jashbir , Jayaprakasha G.K. , Patil Bhimanagouda S.
Published: August 2017

Rationale

Spinach is green leafy vegetable which is a rich source of flavonoids, phenolic acids, carotenoids, and vitamins A, C and E. It contains unique flavonoids which have significant anticarcinogenic, antiinflammatory and free radical scavenging activities. The present study reports the systematic identification and quantification of novel flavonoids by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC/HR‐QTOFMS).

Methods

An ultrasonication technique was used for the extraction of flavonoids from spinach. A rapid and reliable analytical method was established for the identification of flavonoids from methanolic extract. Flavonoids were characterized by their ultraviolet (UV) spectra, high‐resolution accurate masses and MS/MS fragmentation pathways obtained using electrospray ionization (ESI). Furthermore, precursor ions from the intact molecule, and the resulting product ions, were monitored by selected reaction monitoring (SRM) with different collision energies in positive and negative ion mode.

Results

For the first time, five minor spinacetin derivatives were identified under optimized SRM and broadband collision‐induced dissociation (+bbCID) conditions. Fragmentation pathways were proposed for spectra obtained in ESI positive ion mode. The use of HR‐QTOFMS and SRM allowed us to differentiate between molecules with the same nominal mass. The identified spinacetin derivatives were found to be acylated with ferulic and coumaric acids.

Conclusions

UHPLC interfaced with HR‐QTOFMS in combination with SRM provides a rapid, reliable and highly sensitive method for the identification of flavonoids, and potentially other bioactive compounds, in a complex matrix.
On singular hybrid switched and impulsive systems
Authors: Zamani Iman , Shafiee Masoud , Ibeas Asier
Published: August 2017

In this work, the problem of stability analysis for a class of singular hybrid switched and impulsive system (HSIS) is addressed. Corresponding to each subsystem, a hybrid switched and impulsive controller is designed and then the exponential stability property of the proposed singular HSIS is discussed for linear and nonlinear cases. Because switched systems without impulses are a special case of HSISs, the results are also given to switched system with synchronous and asynchronous controllers. The obtained results apply to control singular systems, and the introduced theorems allow knowing how the control must be designed. Two numerical examples are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed approaches. At first, by using MATLAB® software, the proposed method is applied to a class of physiological processes of endocrine disruptor diethylstilbestrol models to illustrate the effectiveness of the results obtained here for the linear case. Thereafter, another numerical example is provided to support the presented theoretical results for the nonlinear case.
EPE‐Mobile—A framework for early performance estimation of mobile applications
Authors: Fernandes Thiago Soares , Moreira Álvaro Freitas , Cota Érika
Published: August 2017

Considering the constrained resources of mobile devices, a thorough performance evaluation of a mobile application is crucial. However, performance evaluation in the mobile domain is still a manual and time‐consuming task. The diversity of mobile devices only increases the complexity of this task. We propose EPE‐Mobile, a framework to automate early performance estimation in mobile applications. It is composed of a configurable library of basic operations and an engine that automatically creates a synthetic program based on the specification of a new app. The synthetic program that EPE‐Mobile generates provides feedback for mobile developers at the first design stages and before the actual implementation of a new application. The fast evaluation can also guide developers in optimizing their applications or in choosing devices with the best trade‐off between cost and performance to run a given application. Finally, developers can reuse the data collection infrastructure of the framework to collect performance data during all development stages. We validate the proposed framework using 4 applications from the Android Play Store. Based on their specifications, 4 synthetic programs were generated and executed on different devices. We compared the results to those obtained from the execution of the actual applications in the same devices. Experimental results show that it is possible to create synthetic applications with similar behavior to that of real applications and, thus, classify devices based on the actual application needs. The framework uses aspect‐oriented programming to collect the metrics of interest. This approach provides increased modularity and separation of concerns, thus facilitating the improvement of the framework itself, by adding other metrics or basic operations.
Review on CFD Simulation and Modeling of Decarburization Processes
Authors: Ersson Mikael , Tilliander Anders
Published: August 2017

Over the last few decades, a number of CFD models have been dedicated to increasing the understanding of the decarburization processes in steelmaking. However, these processes are highly complex with large variations in time and length, and this makes the systems extremely demanding to simulate. Several reports have been published where parts of the processes have been investigated numerically, but to date no models have been presented that can handle the entire complexity of the processes. Here, a review of the research performed on the subject from 1998 to 2016 is given. A table summarizing the models used and the key focus of the studies is given, and it can be concluded that the effort put in so far to investigate the decarburization in steelmaking is substantial, but not complete. The currently available numerical models give an insight into process parameters such as reactions, mixing time, temperature distribution and thermal losses, off‐gas post combustion and de‐dusting, and also nozzle configuration. With the recent developments in numerical modeling and the increase in hardware capability, the future of simulation and modeling of the decarburization processes in steelmaking seems bright.
Torque measurement method based on the Lorentz force law for miniature DC motor
Authors: Moriyama Shin‐ichi
Published: August 2017

This paper describes a torque measurement method for a miniature DC motor. The measurement principle is the Lorentz force law, that is, the equivalence in power between the electromagnetic torque and the motional electromotive force. The test bench that embodies the measurement needs no torque meter. Only a set of the same motors under test are sufficient, except for a digital oscilloscope, a DC power supply, and several resistors. The intrinsic measurement error related to the measurement principle is formulated by an equivalent circuit analysis of the DC brush motor. In addition, the superficial measurement error due to unevenness in electrical or mechanical characteristics between the two motors is clarified from the analysis. These measurement errors are experimentally evaluated for miniature DC motors on the market and the measurement accuracy is discussed. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Significance of Student Organizations to Leadership Development
Authors: Rosch David M. , Collins Jasmine D.
Published: August 2017

Student organizations have existed for almost as long as educational institutions have. This chapter examines the historical role of student organizations in developing leadership capacity in students, as well as their current roles on high school and collegiate campuses in creating transformational environments for student leadership learning and growth.
Building Social Change Oriented Leadership Capacity Among Student Organizations: Developing Students and Campuses Simultaneously
Authors: Kezar Adrianna , Acuña Avilez Arely , Drivalas Yianna , Wheaton Marissiko M.
Published: August 2017

This chapter highlights nontraditional forms of leadership development in student organizations. Using the social change model for leadership as a framework, the authors discuss the ways in which collectivist and activist approaches can result in similar skills obtained through traditional forms of leadership development.
The Empowering Role of Profession‐Based Student Organizations in Developing Student Leadership Capacity
Authors: Lebrón Mariana J. , Stanley Cheryl L. , Kim Ariana J. , Thomas Kieara H.
Published: August 2017

After recreation and intramural groups, students participate in profession‐based organizations more frequently than any other. This chapter explores how these groups can leverage their unique context to accelerate student leadership development and profession‐related leadership competencies.
How do academic stress and leisure activities influence college students' emotional well‐being? A daily diary investigation
Authors: Zhang Jieting , Zheng Yao
Published: August 2017

China has one of the largest bodies of college students who face growing academic stress that influences their well‐being. Using a daily diary method in a group of Chinese college students (n = 139, mean age = 19.50 years, 27% males) who reported their daily positive and negative emotion consecutively for two weeks, this study investigated the dynamic relations between daily academic stress, leisure activities engagement, and emotion, and further examined the moderation of sex on these links. The results showed that at both between‐ and within‐person level, academic stress was positively associated with negative emotion, and leisure activities engagement was positively associated with positive emotion. The association between leisure activities engagement and positive emotion were stronger among female students than among male students. These results suggest that effectively reducing academic stress and actively engaging in leisure activities are both important in promoting and enhancing daily emotional well‐being.