bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perturbative dynamics of thin-shell wormholes beyond general relativity: An alternative approach
Authors: Rubín de Celis Emilio , Tomasini Cecilia , Simeone Claudio
Published: September 2017

Recent studies relating the approximations for the equations-of-state for thin shells and their consequent perturbative evolution are extended to thin-shell wormholes in theories beyond general relativity and more than four spacetime dimensions. The assumption of equations-of-state of the same form for static and slowly evolving shells appears as a strong restriction excluding the possibility of oscillatory evolutions. Then the new results considerably differ from previous ones obtained within the usual linearized approach.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A SIERPINSKI CARPET-INSPIRED TRANSDUCER
Authors: CANNING S. , WALKER A. J. , ROACH P. A.
Published: September 2017

Piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers have the ability to act both as a receiver and a transmitter of ultrasound. Standard designs have a regular structure and therefore operate effectively over narrow bandwidths due to their single length scale. Naturally occurring transducers benefit from a wide range of length scales giving rise to increased bandwidths. It is therefore of interest to investigate structures which incorporate a range of length scales, such as fractals. This paper applies an adaptation of the Green function renormalization method to analyze the propagation of an ultrasonic wave in a series of pre-fractal structures. The structure being investigated here is the Sierpinski carpet. Novel expressions for the non-dimensionalized electrical impedance and the transmission and reception sensitivities as a function of the operating frequency are presented. Comparisons of metrics between three new designs alongside the standard design (Euclidean structure) and the previously investigated Sierpinski gasket device are performed. The results indicate a significant improvement in the reception sensitivity of the device, and improved bandwidth in both the receiving and transmitting responses.
Long Time Prediction of Uncertain Systems Using Singular Perturbation
Authors: Harati Ehsan , Noubari Hossein Ahmadi
Published: September 2017

This paper considers the problem of long time prediction of uncertain dynamic systems. Spectral methods such as polynomial chaos expansion (PCE) provides a suitable alternative for classical Monte Carlo method with lower computational load. However, polynomial chaos expansion has a major drawback of long time integration error. In this paper, we will apply singular perturbation (SP) method for reducing long time integration error. Using SP the accuracy of long time predictions are improved with comparable computational load. We will apply SP to illustrative exemplify problems to show effectiveness of our approach. Moreover, we will illustrate application of SP together with a model order reduction tool to reduce long time integration error as applied to distributed parameter.
On the Generalization Performance of a Regression Model with Imprecise Elements
Authors: Ferraro Maria Brigida
Published: September 2017

A linear regression model for imprecise random variables is considered. The imprecision of a random element has been formalized by means of the LR fuzzy random variable, characterized by a center, a left and a right spread. In order to avoid the non-negativity conditions the spreads are transformed by means of two invertible functions. To analyze the generalization performance of that model an appropriate prediction error is introduced, and it is estimated by means of a bootstrap procedure. Furthermore, since the choice of response transformations could affect the inferential procedures, a computational proposal is introduced for choosing from a family of parametric link functions, the Box-Cox family, the transformation parameters that minimize the prediction error of the model.
IN-VITRO BIOACTIVITY EVALUATION OF K2O-SUBSTITUTED Na2O-CaO-P2O5-SiO2 GLASS BIOCERAMICS
Authors: ZIA REHANA , RIAZ MADEEHA , ASGHAR AYESHA , HUSSAIN TOUSIF
Published: September 2017

In the present work, the effect of K2O/Na2O substitution on the bioactivity of Na2O-CaO-P2O5-SiO2 ceramics prepared by solid-state method was studied. Ceramics-based bioactive implants are economical; they require low processing temperature and are more bioactive when compared with glasses, glass ceramics and composites. K2O is known to control proper function of cells and stimulate bone formation process. The hydroxyapatite layer developed on the surface of samples after soaking in stimulated body fluid solution was studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and atomic absorption spectroscopy. The results showed an increase in the bioactivity of the samples as Na2O was partially replaced with K2O. The addition of K2O enhanced the apatite-forming ability of the ceramic samples and makes it suitable for filling defects and fracture in bones.
An Auto-Scaling Framework for Heterogeneous Hadoop Systems
Authors: Bibal J. V. Benifa , Dejey D.
Published: September 2017

The scalability of the cloud infrastructure is essential to perform large-scale data processing using MapReduce programming model by automatically provisioning and de-provisioning the resources on demand. The existing MapReduce model shows performance degradation while getting adapted to heterogeneous environments since sufficient techniques are not available to scale the resources on demand and the scheduling algorithms would not cooperate as the resources are configured dynamically. An Auto-Scaling Framework (ASF) is presented in this article to configure the resources automatically based on the current system load in a heterogeneous Hadoop environment. The scheduling of data and task is done in a data-local manner that adapts while new resources are configured, or the existing resources are removed. A monitoring module is integrated with the JobTracker to observe the status of physical machines, compute the system load and provide automated provisioning of the resources. Then, Replica Tracker is utilized to track the replica objects for efficient scheduling of the task in the physical machines. The experiments are conducted in a commercial cloud environment using diverse workload characteristics, and the observations show that the proposed framework outperforms the existing scheduling mechanisms by the performance metrics such as average completion time, scheduling time, data locality, resource utilization and throughput.
High-intensity attosecond pulse generation by using inhomogeneous laser field in frequency and space
Authors: Feng Liqiang , Li Wenliang , Castle Rich-Samuel , Li Yi
Published: September 2017

High-order harmonic spectra and attosecond source generation from Ar atom driven by the inhomogeneous laser field in frequency and space have been theoretically investigated. The results showed that (i) for the case of the frequency modulation of the laser, the harmonic cutoff can be remarkably extended with the introduction of the chirp of the laser field, (ii) for the case of the space modulation of the laser, the harmonic cutoff can be further extended by using the positive spatial inhomogeneous field, (iii) by properly adding a terahertz controlling field, the intensity of the harmonic yield can be enhanced by 2 orders of magnitude, showing a 775[Formula: see text]eV supercontinuum. As a result, five isolated attosecond pulses (IAPs) from 60 as to 22 as can be obtained.
STRESS ANALYSIS OF INTERNAL CAROTID ARTERY WITH LOW STENOSIS LEVEL: THE EFFECT OF MATERIAL MODEL AND PLAQUE GEOMETRY
Authors: SHAHIDIAN AZADEH , HASSANKIADEH ARASH GHORBANNIA
Published: September 2017

Stress concentration in carotid stenosis has been proven to assist plaque morphology in disease diagnosis and vulnerability. This work focuses on numerical analysis of stress and strain distribution in the cross-section of internal carotid artery using a 2D structure-only method. The influence of four different idealized plaque geometries (circle, ellipse, oval and wedge) is investigated. Numerical simulations are implemented utilizing linear elastic model along with four hyperelastic constitutive laws named neo-Hookean, Ogden, Yeoh and Mooney–Rivlin. Each case is compared to the real geometry. Results show significant strength of oval and wedged geometries in predicting stress and strain values. Our results emphasize that Yeoh and Ogden hyperelastic materials are more reliable in stress prediction with errors less than 3%. The same concept is observed in locating critical stresses where oval and wedged plaque geometries are the most accurate models. Similar results are observed in predicting maximum principal elastic strain with errors less than 1%. However, the strain distribution in idealized plaque models showed a considerable difference in comparison with real geometry.
Parallel-Correctness and Transferability for Conjunctive Queries
Authors: Ameloot Tom J. , Geck Gaetano , Ketsman Bas , Neven Frank , Schwentick Thomas
Published: September 2017

A dominant cost for query evaluation in modern massively distributed systems is the number of communication rounds. For this reason, there is a growing interest in single-round multiway join algorithms where data are first reshuffled over many servers and then evaluated in a parallel but communication-free way. The reshuffling itself is specified as a distribution policy. We introduce a correctness condition, called
parallel-correctness
, for the evaluation of queries w.r.t. a distribution policy. We study the complexity of parallel-correctness for conjunctive queries as well as transferability of parallel-correctness between queries. We also investigate the complexity of transferability for certain families of distribution policies, including the Hypercube distribution policies.
Archimedes
Authors: Chen Yang , Zhou Xiaofeng , Li Kun , Wang Daisy Zhe
Published: September 2017

We present the ARCHIMEDES system for efficient query processing over probabilistic knowledge bases. We design ARCHIMEDES for knowledge bases containing incomplete and uncertain information due to limitations of information sources and human knowledge. Answering queries over these knowledge bases requires efficient probabilistic inference. In this paper, we describe ARCHIMEDES's efficient knowledge expansion and querydriven inference over UDA-GIST, an in-database unified data- and graph-parallel computation framework. With an efficient inference engine, ARCHIMEDES produces reasonable results for queries over large uncertain knowledge bases. We use the Reverb-Sherlock andWikilinks knowledge bases to show ARCHIMEDES achieves satisfactory quality with real-time performance.
Coefficients Bounds for Certain Subclass of Biunivalent Functions Associated with Ruscheweyh q-Differential Operator
Authors: Hussain Saqib , Khan Shahid , Zaighum Muhammad Asad , Darus Maslina , Shareef Zahid
Published: September 2017

We introduce in our present investigation a new subclass of analytic and biunivalent functions associated with Ruscheweyh q-differential operator in open unit disk E. We use the Faber polynomial expansions to find nth coefficients bounds of class of bisubordinate functions and also find initial coefficient estimates.
Kinetics of Quality Changes ofPangasiusFillets at Stable and Dynamic Temperatures, Simulating Downstream Cold Chain Conditions
Authors: Mai Nga , Huynh Van
Published: September 2017

This study was about the quality changes ofPangasiusfillets during storage under simulated temperature conditions of downstream cold chain. Sensory, chemical, and microbiological analyses were conducted over storage time and bacterial growth was modelled. Sensory quality index (QI), at five stable (1, 4, 9, 15, and 19 ± 1°C) and three dynamic temperatures, progressed faster at higher temperatures, especially with sooner temperature abuses. Total volatile basic nitrogen remained under the acceptable limit throughout all the storage conditions. Total viable psychrotrophic counts (TVC) were around 5.68 ± 0.24 log CFU g−1at the beginning and exceeded the limit of 6 log CFU g−1after 216, 96, 36, 16, and 7 h at 1, 4, 9, 15, and 19 ± 1°C, respectively. Meanwhile,Pseudomonascounts started at 3.81 ± 0.53 log CFU g−1and reached 4.60–6.36 log CFU g−1by the time of TVC rejection. Since lower shelf lives were given by TVC rather than QI, it should be appropriate to base the product shelf life on the TVC acceptable limit. Kinetics models based on the Baranyi and Roberts and square root models, developed for TVC andPseudomonasspp., gave acceptable bacterial estimations at dynamic temperatures, with over 80% of observed counts within the acceptable simulation zone, revealing promising model applicability as a supporting tool for cold chain management. However, further improvement and validation of the models are needed.
Gesture Decoding Using ECoG Signals from Human Sensorimotor Cortex: A Pilot Study
Authors: Li Yue , Zhang Shaomin , Jin Yile , Cai Bangyu , Controzzi Marco , Zhu Junming , Zhang Jianmin , Zheng Xiaoxiang
Published: September 2017

Electrocorticography (ECoG) has been demonstrated as a promising neural signal source for developing brain-machine interfaces (BMIs). However, many concerns about the disadvantages brought by large craniotomy for implanting the ECoG grid limit the clinical translation of ECoG-based BMIs. In this study, we collected clinical ECoG signals from the sensorimotor cortex of three epileptic participants when they performed hand gestures. The ECoG power spectrum in hybrid frequency bands was extracted to build a synchronous real-time BMI system. High decoding accuracy of the three gestures was achieved in both offline analysis (85.7%, 84.5%, and 69.7%) and online tests (80% and 82%, tested on two participants only). We found that the decoding performance was maintained even with a subset of channels selected by a greedy algorithm. More importantly, these selected channels were mostly distributed along the central sulcus and clustered in the area of 3 interelectrode squares. Our findings of the reduced and clustered distribution of ECoG channels further supported the feasibility of clinically implementing the ECoG-based BMI system for the control of hand gestures.
Biological Function of MicroRNA193a-3p in Health and Disease
Authors: Grossi Ilaria , Salvi Alessandro , Abeni Edoardo , Marchina Eleonora , De Petro Giuseppina
Published: September 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small noncoding RNAs that act mainly as negative regulators of gene expression. Several studies demonstrated that miRNAs take part in numerous biological processes, such as proliferation, apoptosis, and migration. The dysregulation of miRNAs has been frequently observed in different types of disease, including cancer. Here, we provide a comprehensive review on the human miR-193a-3p by considering its role in both physiological and pathological contexts. Different mechanisms involved in regulating miR-193a-3p expression have been reported, including epigenetic modifications and transcription factors. In physiological contexts, miR-193a-3p seemed able to limit proliferation and cell cycle progression in normal cells. Remarkably, several publications demonstrated that miR-193a-3p acted as a tumor suppressor miRNA in cancer by targeting different genes involved in proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and metastasis. Furthermore, the downregulation of miR-193a-3p has been observed in many primary tumors and altered levels of circulating miR-193a-3p have been identified in serum or plasma of cancer patients and subjects affected by Parkinson’s disease or by schizophrenia. In a clinical perspective, further studies are needed to explore the antitumor effects of the miR-193a-3p mimics delivery and the relevance of this miRNA detection as a possible diagnostic and prognostic biomarker.
Joining of Incompatible Polymer Combinations by Form Fit Using the Vibration Welding Process
Authors: Wolf Michael , Kleffel Tobias , Leisen Christoph , Drummer Dietmar
Published: September 2017

The production of components consisting of various polymer types by welding is severely restricted and only possible for bonding compatible materials with melting points in a close range. Several modifications, such as the cross-linking of one joining partner, allow for circumventing the restrictions regarding the melting points but do not help in joining bonding incompatible materials. Investigations of dissimilar material combinations, especially from polymer-metal hybrid structures, show a high potential of connections based on form fits. Within the scope of this paper, the possibility of joining incompatible polymer combinations, such as polyamide 66 and high-density polyethylene, by micro form fit using the vibration welding process is analyzed. For this purpose, the generated bonding strength of the test specimen was determined by shear tests. Furthermore, the undercuts of the generated prestructures and the resulting bond of the test specimen were examined microscopically by computer-tomography. These investigations depict the high potential of joining incompatible polymer combinations by form fit in the vibration welding using prestructuring to generate undercuts.
Balance Performance Is Task Specific in Older Adults
Authors: Dunsky Ayelet , Zeev Aviva , Netz Yael
Published: September 2017

Balance ability among the elderly is a key component in the activities of daily living and is divided into two types: static and dynamic. For clinicians who wish to assess the risk of falling among their elderly patients, it is unclear if more than one type of balance test can be used to measure their balance impairment. In this study, we examined the association between static balance measures and two dynamic balance field tests. One hundred and twelve community-dwelling older adults (mean age 74.6) participated in the study. They underwent the Tetrax static postural assessment and then performed the Timed Up and Go (TUG) and the Functional Reach (FR) Test as dynamic balance tests. In general, low-moderate correlations were found between the two types of balance tests. For women, age and static balance parameters explained 28.1–40.4% of the variance of TUG scores and 14.6–24% of the variance of FR scores. For men, age and static balance parameters explained 9.5–31.2% of the variance of TUG scores and 23.9–41.7% of the variance of FR scores. Based on our findings, it is suggested that a combination of both static and dynamic tests be used for assessing postural balance ability.
Assessment of Homodyned K Distribution Modeling Ultrasonic Speckles from Scatterers with Varying Spatial Organizations
Authors: Hu Xiao , Zhang Yufeng , Deng Li , Cai Guanghui , Zhang Qinghui , Zhou Yi , Zhang Kexin , Zhang Junhua
Published: September 2017

Objective. This paper presents an assessment of physical meanings of parameter and goodness of fit for homodyned K (HK) distribution modeling ultrasonic speckles from scatterer distributions with wide-varying spatial organizations. Methods. A set of 3D scatterer phantoms based on gamma distributions is built to be implemented from the clustered to random to uniform scatterer distributions continuously. The model parameters are obtained by maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) from statistical histograms of the ultrasonic envelope data and then compared with those by the optimally fitting models chosen from three single distributions. Results show that the parameters of the HK distribution still present their respective physical meanings of independent contributions in the scatterer distributions. Moreover, the HK distribution presents better goodness of fit with a maximum relative MLE difference of 6.23% for random or clustered scatterers with a well-organized periodic structure. Experiments based on ultrasonic envelope data from common carotid arterial B-mode images of human subjects validate the modeling performance of HK distribution. Conclusion. We conclude that the HK model for ultrasonic speckles is a better choice for characterizing tissue with a wide variety of spatial organizations, especially the emphasis on the goodness of fit for the tissue in practical applications.
The Effect of LASIK Procedure on Peripapillary Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer and Macular Ganglion Cell-Inner Plexiform Layer Thickness in Myopic Eyes
Authors: Zivkovic Maja , Jaksic Vesna , Giarmoukakis Athanassios , Grentzelos Michael , Zlatanovic Marko , Zlatanovic Gordana , Miljkovic Aleksandra , Jovanovic Svetlana , Stamenkovic Miroslav , Kymionis George
Published: September 2017

Purpose. To evaluate the effect of applied suction during microkeratome-assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) procedure on peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness as well as macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GC-IPL) thickness. Methods. 89 patients (124 eyes) with established myopia range from −3.0 to −8.0 diopters and no associated ocular diseases were included in this study. RNFL and GC-IPL thickness measurements were performed by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD OCT) one day before LASIK and at 1 and 6 months postoperatively. Results. Mean RNFL thickness prior to LASIK was 93.86±12.17 μm while the first month and the sixth month postoperatively were 94.01±12.04 μm and 94.46±12.27 μm, respectively. Comparing results, there is no significant difference between baseline, one month, and six months postoperatively for mean RNFL (p>0.05). Mean GC-IPL thickness was 81.70±7.47 μm preoperatively with no significant difference during the follow-up period (82.03±7.69 μm versus 81.84±7.64 μm; p>0.05). Conclusion. RNFL and GC-IPL complex thickness remained unaffected following LASIK intervention.
Added Value of Digital Breast Tomosynthesis Combined with Digital Mammography According to Reader Agreement: Changes in BI-RADS Rate and Follow-Up Management
Authors: Galati Francesca , Marzocca Flaminia , Bassetti Erica , Luciani Maria L. , Tan Sharon , Catalano Carlo , Pediconi Federica
Published: September 2017

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the added value of digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) when combined with digital mammography (DM) in BI-RADS assessment and follow-up management. Methods: From February 2014 to January 2015, 214 patients underwent DM and DBT, acquired with a Siemens Mammomat Inspiration unit. 2 expert readers independently reviewed the studies in 2 steps: DM and DM+DBT, according to BI-RADS rate. Patients with BI-RADS 0, 3, 4, and 5 were recalled for work-up. Inter-reader agreement for BI-RADS rate and work-up rate were evaluated using Cohen's kappa. Results: Inter-reader agreement (κ value) for BI-RADS classification was 0.58 for DM and 0.8 for DM+DBT. DM+DBT increased the number of BI-RADS 1, 2, 4, 5 and reduced the number of BI-RADS 0 and 3 for both readers compared to DM alone. Regarding work-up rate agreement, κ was poor for DM and substantial (0.7) for DM+DBT. DM+DBT also reduced the work-up rate for both Reader 1 and Reader 2. Conclusion: DM+DBT increased the number of negative and benign cases (BI-RADS 1 and 2) and suspicious and malignant cases (BI-RADS 4 and 5), while it reduced the number of BI-RADS 0 and 3. DM+DBT also improved inter-reader agreement and reduced the overall recall for additional imaging or short-interval follow-up.
Effect of Cardiac Surgery-Associated Acute Kidney Injury on Long-Term Outcomes of Chinese Patients: A Historical Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Buyun , Ma Lulu , Shao Yongfeng , Liu Si , Yu Xiangbao , Zhu Yamei , Xu Xianrong , Xing Changying , Mao Huijuan
Published: September 2017

Background/Aims: To evaluate the long-term outcomes of Chinese patients with cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI). Methods: Patients who underwent cardiac surgery with a median 3-year follow-up were enrolled. The long-term survival rate and the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) were recorded, and related risk factors were analyzed. Results: Of all 1,363 patients, 457 (33.5%) developed CSA-AKI. The AKI patients had a lower 3-year survival rate (88.8 vs. 97.2%, respectively, p < 0.001) and a higher incidence of CKD stages 3-5 (9.9 vs. 2.3%, respectively, p < 0.001) than the non-AKI patients. Cox regression analysis showed that AKI, atrial fibrillation, chronic cardiac insufficiency, longer surgical duration, respiratory failure after surgery, and longer mechanical ventilation time were associated with long-term mortality, while AKI, older age, and lower baseline kidney function were associated with incident CKD stages 3-5. Conclusion: CSA-AKI increased the risk of 3-year mortality and incident CKD stages 3-5.
Biomarkers of Renal Injury in Cirrhosis: Association with Acute Kidney Injury and Recovery after Liver Transplantation
Authors: Singal Ashwani K. , Jackson Bradford , Pereira Glauber B. , Russ Kirk B. , Fitzmorris Paul Stephen , Kakati Donny , Axley Page , Ravi Sujan , Seay Toni , Ramachandra Rao Satish P. , Mehta Ravindra , Kuo Yong-Fang , Singh Karan P. , Agarwal Anupam
Published: September 2017

Background: To define urine or serum biomarkers in predicting renal function recovery after liver transplantation (LT). Methods: Adults listed for LT (February 2011-July 2014) and with modified diet for renal disease-6 (MDRD-6) <60 mL/min provided urine/blood samples at baseline and serially until LT for biomarkers in serum (pg/mL) and urine (pg/mg creatinine). Results: Of 271 LT listed patients (mean age 57 years, 63% males, median listing MELD 17.5), 1 year acute kidney injury (AKI) probability was 49%, with odds of 1.3-, 3.0-, 4.6-, and 8.5-fold times for listing MELD 16-20, 21-25, 26-30, and >30, compared to MELD <16. Thirty-seven people died over 1 year from the time of listing, with twofold increased odds with AKI. Among 67 patients with MDRD <60, only urinary epidermal growth factor was different comparing AKI (increase in serum creatinine ≥0.3 mg/dL from baseline within past 3 months) vs. no AKI (2,254 vs. 4,253, p = 0.003). Differences between acute tubular necrosis (ATN) and hepatorenal syndrome could not be ascertained for a small sample of 3 patients with ATN. Analyzing 15 of 43 receiving LT and MDRD-6 <30 prior to LT, biomarkers were not different comparing 5 patients recovering renal function (MDRD-6 >50 mL/min) at 6 months vs. 10 without recovery. Conclusions: AKI is common among LT listed patients, with a negative impact on transplant-free survival. Serum and urine biomarkers are not associated with the recovery of renal function after LT. Multicenter studies are suggested to (a) develop strategies to reduce the development of AKI and (b) derive novel biomarkers for use in accurately predicting renal recovery after LT.
Understanding the Parent Perspective on Prenatal Consultation for Fetuses with Congenital Anomalies
Authors: Berman Loren , Costanzo Caitlyn , Smola Susan , Taggi-Pinto Alison , Luks Francois L.
Published: September 2017

Introduction: An increasing number of congenital anomalies are diagnosed prenatally. Understanding the implications of these diagnoses on the life of their child is critical for parents, and the surgical consultation is often the primary venue for this education. Little is known about the parent perspective on prenatal consultation. Methods: Parents undergoing prenatal consultation were identified and in-depth interviews were conducted to explore the following: understanding of the diagnosis, preparedness for postnatal course, and suggestions for improvement. Qualitative analysis was performed to generate themes. Results: Twelve interviews with 16 family members were performed, encompassing a variety of prenatal diagnoses and outcomes. Near-ubiquitous emotions included fear, anxiety, and self-blame. Surgical consultation relieved anxiety for some, but the uncertain outcome increased anxiety in others. Most were satisfied with the information communicated during the encounter; however, those with worse outcomes wished they were better warned. Parents emphasized the importance of support systems and educational materials. Conclusions: Parents appreciate learning about all potential outcomes for the fetus, even though this generates anxiety. Surgeons should discuss the range of possible outcomes while acknowledging that uncertainty leads to anxiety. It is essential to incorporate the parent perspective when conducting prenatal consultation and training pediatric surgeons in this important practice.
Thismia nigricoronata, a new species of Burmanniaceae (Thismieae, Dioscoreales) from Vang Vieng, Vientiane Province, Laos, and a key to subgeneric classification
Authors: KUMAR PANKAJ , GALE STEPHAN W. , LI JI-HONG , BOUAMANIVONG SOMSANITH , FISCHER GUNTER A.
Published: September 2017

Thismia nigricoronata is described as a new species in family Burmanniaceae. Both morphological and phylogenetic analyses indicate that this new Lao endemic is allied to T. taiwanensis in section Glaziocharis, and it can be differentiated on the basis of its longer vestigial stem leaves, reflexed free outer perianth lobes and ornamented, vibrantly coloured outer surface of the perianth tube. The infrageneric taxonomy of Thismia is reviewed, the genera Geomitra and Scaphiophora are officially reduced to sectional status in Thismia, and all species are enumerated in systematic order. A key to all currently accepted subgenera, sections and subsections is presented to facilitate further examination of their phylogenetic integrity in light of apparent conflict between the traditional morphology-based system and the emerging DNA-based classification.
Salicornia cuscoensis (Amaranthaceae/Chenopodiaceae), a new species from Peru (South America)
Authors: ALONSO M. ÁNGELES , CRESPO MANUEL B. , FREITAG HELMUT
Published: September 2017

The name Salicornia cuscoensis given to a plant from high Andean saltmarshes near Cusco [Cuzco] and Ayacucho, Peru (South America) is validated by a diagnosis and description. The main morphological characters that separate S. cuscoensis from other closely related species are creeping habit, delicate branches, inflorescence of short and thin spikes, and seed indumentum. The new species clearly differs from other perennial Salicornia taxa growing in high Andean saltmarshes such as S. pulvinata and S. andina. The former forms small compact cushions producing very short, few-flowered inflorescences. The latter shows woody stems and forms larger rounded carpets. Morphologically, S. cuscoensis is also similar to S. magellanica, a species growing along the seashore in southern Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, but the latter has shorter and wider inflorescences and larger seeds with a different type and arrangement of indumentum. Molecular analyses also supported the separation of S. cuscoensis. Data on habitat, distribution and phylogenetic relationships are presented for the new species and its relatives, and an identification key is given for the South American taxa of the genus Salicornia.
The type locality of Tor mosal (Hamilton, 1822) (Teleostei: Cyprinidae)
Authors: RAGHAVAN RAJEEV , DAHANUKAR NEELESH , BRITZ RALF
Published: September 2017

Hamilton (1822) described Cyprinus mosal, now assigned to the genus Tor, from the ‘Kosi’, a tributary of the Ganges. The fact that two Gangetic tributaries with the name Kosi exist, has resulted in confusion in the Indian ichthyological literature and beyond regarding the type locality of Hamilton’s T. mosal. A critical review of Hamilton’s treatise on the fishes of the Ganges, as well as several other works by and on Hamilton, revealed that T. mosal was collected in and described from the Kosi (=Koshi), a Gangetic tributary that originates in the northern slopes of the Himalayas in the Tibet Autonomous Region and drains the southern slopes of Nepal and Bihar (India); and not from the more western Gangetic tributary by the same name flowing through Ramnagar in Uttarakhand State, India.
Role of Orography, Diurnal Cycle, and Intraseasonal Oscillation in Summer Monsoon Rainfall over the Western Ghats and Myanmar Coast
Authors: Shige Shoichi , Nakano Yuki , Yamamoto Munehisa K.
Published: September 2017

Rainfall over the coastal regions of western India [Western Ghats (WG)] and Myanmar [Arakan Yoma (AY)], two regions experiencing the heaviest rainfall during the Asian summer monsoon, is examined using a Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Precipitation Radar (PR) dataset spanning 16 years. Rainfall maxima are identified on the upslope of the WG and the coastline of AY, in contrast to the offshore locations observed in previous studies. Continuous rain with slight nocturnal and afternoon–evening maxima occurs over the upslope of the WG, while an afternoon peak over the upslope and a morning peak just off the coast are found in AY, resulting in different locations of the rainfall maxima for the WG (upslope) and AY (coastline). Large rainfall amounts with small diurnal amplitudes are observed over the WG and AY under strong environmental flow perpendicular to the coastal mountains, and vice versa. Composite analysis of the boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO) shows that the rain anomaly over the WG slopes lags behind the northward-propagating major rainband. The cyclonic systems associated with the BSISO introduces a southwest wind anomaly behind the major rainband, enhancing the orographic rainfall over the WG, and resulting in the phase lag. This lag is not observed in the AY region where more closed cyclonic circulations occur. Diurnal variations in rainfall over the WG regions are smallest during the strongest BSISO rainfall anomaly phase.
Characterization of nano particle added composite panels manufactured from Eastern redcedar
Authors: Chotikhun Aujchariya , Hiziroglu Salim , Buser Michael , Frazier Scott , Kard Brad
Published: September 2017

The objective of this study was to evaluate properties of experimental particleboard panels manufactured from Eastern redcedar ( Juniperus virginiana L.) using silicone dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticles added modified starch as a binder. Nine different types of panels were manufactured having nanoparticle contents of 0%, 1%, and 3% at three density levels of 600, 700, and 800 kg/m3. Based on the findings in this work, nanoparticle content above 1% in the panels adversely influenced their mechanical properties. It appears that using nano added modified starch along with only 2% urea formaldehyde adhesive resulted in accepted mechanical characteristics in the form of bending and internal bond strength of the samples. Since no wax or other additives were used in panel manufacture their dimensional stability needs to be improved. Very low formaldehyde emission value of 0.07 ppm was determined for the panels suggesting that such approach results in potential of manufacturing value-added composite products with insignificant environmental and health concerns.
Ballistic impact response of carbon/epoxy tubes with variable nanosilica content
Authors: Vashisth Aniruddh , Bakis Charles E , Ruggeri Charles R , Henry Todd C , Roberts Gary D
Published: September 2017

Laminated fiber reinforced polymer composites are known for high specific strength and stiffness in the plane of lamination, yet relatively low out-of-plane impact damage tolerance due to matrix dominated interlaminar mechanical properties. A number of factors including the toughness of the matrix can influence the response of composites to impact. The objective of the current investigation is to evaluate the ballistic impact response of carbon/epoxy tubes with variable amounts of nanosilica particles added to the matrix as a toughening agent. Mass density, elastic modulus, glass transition temperature and Mode I fracture toughness of the matrix materials were measured. Tubes manufactured with these matrix materials were ballistically impacted using a round steel projectile aimed at normal incidence across the major diameter. After impact, the tubes were nondestructively inspected and subjected to mechanical tests to determine the residual shear strength in torsion. Increasing concentrations of nanosilica monotonically increased the modulus and fracture toughness of the matrix materials. Tubes with nanosilica had smaller impact damage area, higher residual shear strength, and higher energy absorbed per unit damage area versus control materials with no nanosilica. Overall, the addition of nanosilica improved the impact damage resistance and tolerance of carbon/epoxy tubes loaded in torsion, with minimal adverse effects on mass density and glass transition temperature.
Accuracy of Parental Perception of Nighttime Breathing in Children with Down Syndrome
Authors: Friedman Norman R. , Ruiz Amanda G. , Gao Dexiang , Ingram David G.
Published: September 2017

Objective

In 2011, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a guideline for children with Down syndrome (DS), recommending a polysomnogram (PSG) by age 4 years regardless of symptoms. Their rationale was based on 2 publications with small cohorts, where at least 50% of the children had no obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) symptoms but their PSG results were abnormal. The American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation published a clinical practice guideline recommending PSG prior to adenotonsillectomy for these children. This study aimed to assess parents’ accuracy of their children’s breathing patterns as compared with PSGs in a larger cohort of children with DS.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care academic pediatric hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Sleep intake forms assessing frequency of parent‐observed apnea, snoring, and restless sleep were analyzed. None of the children had a previous tonsillectomy. Two groups were analyzed according to symptoms: infrequent (<3 nights per week on all questions answered) and frequent (≥6 nights per week on at least 1 question). OSA severity was categorized as follows: normal, <2 events per hour; mild, 2 to 4.9; moderate, 5 to 9.9; and severe, ≥10.

Results

A total of 113 children met inclusion criteria: 34% (n = 38) had infrequent symptoms, and 66% (n = 75) had frequent symptoms. Parents were unable to predict the presence or absence of OSA by nighttime symptoms (P =. 60). The risk of OSA for children with frequent symptoms versus those with infrequent symptoms was 1.04 (95% CI, 0.89‐1.3).

Conclusion

Parents of DS children are unable to predict the presence or absence of OSA by nighttime symptoms, nor are they able to determine its severity.
Vocal Fold Immobility due to Birth Trauma: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis
Authors: Jabbour Jad , North Lauren M. , Bougie David , Robey Thomas
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To describe the present understanding of birth trauma–related vocal fold immobility and quantitatively compare it with idiopathic congenital vocal fold immobility to explore whether it is a discrete entity.

Data Sources

PubMed, Ovid, and Cochrane databases.

Review Methods

English‐language, observational, or experimental studies involving infants with idiopathic congenital or birth trauma–related vocal fold immobility were included. Data from these studies were pooled with our institution’s vocal fold immobility database, with the resultant idiopathic congenital and birth trauma cohorts compared regarding patterns and outcomes of immobility.

Results

The search returned 288 articles, with 24 meeting inclusion criteria. Of studies reviewing all‐cause immobility, 8 of 9 (88.9%) identified birth trauma as an etiology, although birth trauma definitions and proposed mechanisms of immobility varied. The study subjects, combined with our institution’s database, yielded 188 idiopathic congenital and 113 birth trauma cases. Compared with idiopathic congenital cases, birth trauma cases had a higher proportion of unilateral immobility (72 of 113 [63.7%] vs 52 of 188 [27.7%], P <. 001) and rate of resolution (41 of 51 [80.4%] vs 91 of 159 [57.2%], P =. 003). Resolution occurred in 24 of 26 (91.3%) unilateral and 17 of 25 (68.0%) bilateral birth trauma cases and in 30 of 40 (75.0%) unilateral and 59 of 109 (54.1%) bilateral idiopathic congenital cases (P =. 11 and. 20, respectively).

Conclusion

While the definition and mechanism of birth trauma–related vocal fold immobility warrant further investigation, these findings suggest that it is distinct from idiopathic congenital vocal fold immobility, with a unique presentation and potentially more favorable outcomes. This can inform counseling and management for infants with otherwise unexplained immobility but known birth trauma.
Culture and nomophobia: The role of vertical versus horizontal collectivism in predicting nomophobia
Authors: Arpaci Ibrahim
Published: September 2017

This study aims at contributing to literature by investigating the role of espoused culture in influencing nomophobia. In the present study, the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) and Individualism-Collectivism (INDCOL) Scale were used to measure nomophobia and horizontal/vertical collectivism. The psychometric properties of the scales were examined against the data collected from 485 undergraduate students in Turkey (Mean age = 22.11, SD = 3.84). A structural equation modeling approach was used to test the hypothesized relationships. Results suggested that the relationship between vertical collectivism and nomophobia was significant and positive (.31), while the relationship between horizontal collectivism and nomophobia was not significant (and negative; -.15). The points raised in the present study should be taken into account when designing treatment and prevention programs in dealing with nomophobia.
Development of EirV3: A Computer-Based Tool for Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Cancer
Authors: Krogstad Hilde , Brunelli Cinzia , Sand Kari , Andersen Eivind , Garresori Herish , Halvorsen Tarje , Haukland Ellinor C. , Jordal Frode , Kaasa Stein , Loge Jon Håvard , Løhre Erik Torbjørn , Raj Sunil X. , Hjermstad Marianne Jensen
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Immediate transfer of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for use in medical consultations is facilitated by electronic assessments. We aimed to describe the rationale and development of Eir version 3 (EirV3), a computer-based symptom assessment tool for cancer, with emphasis on content and user-friendliness.

Methods

EirV3’s specifications and content were developed through multiprofessional, stepwise, and iterative processes (from 2013 to 2016), with literature reviews on traditional and electronic assessment and classification methods, formative iterative usability tests with end-users, and assessment of patient preferences for paper versus electronic assessments.

Results

EirV3 has the following two modules: Eir-Patient for PROMs registration on tablets and Eir-Doctor for presentation of PROMs in a user-friendly interface on computers. Eir-Patient starts with 19 common cancer symptoms followed by specific, in-depth questions for endorsed symptoms. The pain section includes a body map for pain location and intensity, whereas physical functioning, nutritional intake, and well-being are standard questions for all. Data are wirelessly transferred to Eir-Doctor. Symptoms with intensity scores ≥ 3 (on a 0 to 10 scale) are marked in red, with brighter colors corresponding to higher intensity, and supplemented with graphs displaying symptom development over time. Usability results showed that patients and health care providers found EirV3 to be intuitive, easy to use, and relevant. When comparing PROM assessments on paper versus tablets (n = 114), 19% of patients preferred paper, 41% preferred tablets, and 40% had no preference. Median intraclass correlation coefficient between paper and tablets (0.815) was excellent.

Conclusion

Iterative test rounds followed by continuous improvements led to a user-friendly, applicable symptom assessment tool, EirV3, developed for and by end-users. EirV3 is undergoing international testing of clinical and cross-cultural adaptability.
Vestigial-like 3 is a novel Ets1 interacting partner and regulates trigeminal nerve formation and cranial neural crest migration
Authors: Simon Emilie , Thézé Nadine , Fédou Sandrine , Thiébaud Pierre , Faucheux Corinne
Published: September 2017

Drosophila Vestigial is the founding member of a protein family containing a highly conserved domain, called Tondu that mediates their interaction with members of the TEAD family of transcription factors (Scalloped in Drosophila). In Drosophila, the Vestigial/Scalloped complex controls wing development by regulating the expression of target genes through binding to MCAT sequences. In vertebrates, there are four Vestigial-like genes whose functions are still not well understood. Here we describe the regulation and function of vestigial-like 3 (vgll3) during Xenopus early development. A combination of signals including FGF8, Wnt8a, Hoxa2, Hoxb2 and retinoic acid limits vgll3 expression to hindbrain rhombomere 2. We show that vgll3 regulates trigeminal placode and nerve formation and is required for normal neural crest development by affecting their migration and adhesion properties. At the molecular level, vgll3 is a potent activator of pax3, zic1, Wnt and FGF that are important for brain patterning and neural crest cell formation. Vgll3 interacts in the embryo with Tead proteins but unexpectedly with Ets1 with which it is able to stimulate a MCAT driven luciferase reporter gene. Our findings highlight a critical function for vgll3 in vertebrate early development.
The receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase PTPRB negatively regulates FGF2-dependent branching morphogenesis
Authors: Soady Kelly J. , Tornillo Giusy , Kendrick Howard , Meniel Valerie , Olijnyk-Dallis Daria , Morris Joanna S. , Stein Torsten , Gusterson Barry A. , Isacke Clare M. , Smalley Matthew J.
Published: September 2017

PTPRB is a transmembrane protein tyrosine phosphatase known to regulate blood vessel remodelling and angiogenesis. Here, we demonstrate that PTPRB negatively regulates branching morphogenesis in the mouse mammary epithelium. We show that Ptprb is highly expressed in adult mammary stem cells and also, although at lower levels, in oestrogen receptor-positive luminal cells. During mammary development, Ptprb expression is downregulated during puberty, a period of extensive ductal outgrowth and branching. In vivo shRNA knockdown of Ptprb in the cleared mammary fat pad transplant assay resulted in smaller epithelial outgrowths with an increased branching density and also increased branching in an in vitro organoid assay. Organoid branching was dependent on stimulation by FGF2, and Ptprb knockdown in mammary epithelial cells resulted in a higher level of fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) activation and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, both at baseline and following FGF2 stimulation. Therefore, PTPRB regulates branching morphogenesis in the mammary epithelium by modulating the response of the FGFR signalling pathway to FGF stimulation. Considering the importance of branching morphogenesis in multiple taxa, our findings have general importance outside mammary developmental biology.