bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Objective comparison of high‐contrast spatial resolution and low‐contrast detectability for various clinical protocols on multiple CT scanners
Authors: Racine Damien , Viry Anaïs , Becce Fabio , Schmidt Sabine , Ba Alexandre , Bochud François O. , Edyvean Sue , Schegerer Alexander , Verdun Francis R. 
Published: September 2017

PurposeWe sought to compare objectively computed tomography (CT) scanner performance for three clinically relevant protocols using a task‐based image quality assessment method in order to assess the potential for radiation dose reduction.MethodsFour CT scanners released between 2003 and 2007 by different manufacturers were compared with four CT scanners released between 2012 and 2014 by the same manufacturers using ideal linear model observers (MO): prewhitening (PW) MO and channelized Hotelling (CHO) MO with Laguerre‐Gauss channels for high‐contrast spatial resolution and low‐contrast detectability (LCD) performance, respectively. High‐contrast spatial resolution was assessed using a custom‐made phantom that enabled the computation of the target transfer function (TTF) and noise power spectrum (NPS). Low‐contrast detectability was assessed using a commercially available anthropomorphic abdominal phantom providing equivalent diameters of 24, 29.6, and 34.6 cm. Three protocols were reviewed: a head (trauma) and an abdominal (urinary stones) protocol were applied to assess high‐contrast spatial resolution performance; and another abdominal (focal liver lesions) protocol was applied for LCD. The liver protocol was tested using fixed and modulated tube currents. The PW MO was proposed for assessing high‐contrast detectability performance of the various CT scanners.ResultsCompared with older generation CT scanners, three newer systems displayed significant improvements in high‐contrast detectability over that of their predecessors. A fourth, newer system had lower performance. The CHO MO was appropriate for assessing LCD performance and revealed that an excellent level of image quality could be obtained with newer scanners at significantly lower dose levels.ConclusionsThis study shows that MO can objectively benchmark CT scanners using a task‐based image quality method, thus helping to estimate the potential for further dose reductions offered by the latest systems. Such an approach may be useful for adequately and quantitatively comparing clinically relevant image quality among various scanners.
Investigating simulation‐based metrics for characterizing linear iterative reconstruction in digital breast tomosynthesis
Authors: Rose Sean D. , Sanchez Adrian A. , Sidky Emil Y. , Pan Xiaochuan 
Published: September 2017

PurposeSimulation‐based image quality metrics are adapted and investigated for characterizing the parameter dependences of linear iterative image reconstruction for DBT.MethodsThree metrics based on a 2D DBT simulation are investigated: (1) a root‐mean‐square‐error (RMSE) between the test phantom and reconstructed image, (2) a gradient RMSE where the comparison is made after taking a spatial gradient of both image and phantom, and (3) a region‐of‐interest (ROI) Hotelling observer (HO) for signal‐known‐exactly/background‐known‐exactly (SKE/BKE) and signal‐known‐exactly/background‐known‐statistically (SKE/BKS) detection tasks. Two simulation studies are performed using the aforementioned metrics, varying voxel aspect ratio, and regularization strength for two types of Tikhonov‐regularized least‐squares optimization. The RMSE metrics are applied to a 2D test phantom with resolution bar patterns at varying angles, and the ROI‐HO metric is applied to two tasks relevant to DBT: lesion detection, modeled by use of a large, low‐contrast signal, and microcalcification detection, modeled by use of a small, high‐contrast signal. The RMSE metric trends are compared with visual assessment of the reconstructed bar‐pattern phantom. The ROI‐HO metric trends are compared with 3D reconstructed images from ACR phantom data acquired with a Hologic Selenia Dimensions DBT system.ResultsSensitivity of the image RMSE to mean pixel value is found to limit its applicability to the assessment of DBT image reconstruction. The image gradient RMSE is insensitive to mean pixel value and appears to track better with subjective visualization of the reconstructed bar‐pattern phantom. The ROI‐HO metric shows an increasing trend with regularization strength for both forms of Tikhonov‐regularized least‐squares; however, this metric saturates at intermediate regularization strength indicating a point of diminishing returns for signal detection. Visualization with the reconstructed ACR phantom images appear to show a similar dependence with regularization strength.ConclusionsFrom the limited studies presented it appears that image gradient RMSE trends correspond with visual assessment better than image RMSE for DBT image reconstruction. The ROI‐HO metric for both detection tasks also appears to reflect visual trends in the ACR phantom reconstructions as a function of regularization strength. We point out, however, that the true utility of these metrics can only be assessed after amassing more data.
A DNA Origami Mechanical Device for the Regulation of Microcosmic Structural Rigidity
Authors: Wan Neng , Hong Zhouping , Wang Huading , Fu Xin , Zhang Ziyue , Li Chao , Xia Han , Fang Yan , Li Maoteng , Zhan Yi , Yang Xiangliang 
Published: September 2017

AbstractDNA origami makes it feasible to fabricate a tremendous number of DNA nanostructures with various geometries, dimensions, and functionalities. Moreover, an increasing amount of research on DNA nanostructures is focused on biological and biomedical applications. Here, the reversible regulation of microcosmic structural rigidity is accomplished using a DNA origami device in vitro. The designed DNA origami monomer is composed of an internal central axis and an external sliding tube. Due to the external tube sliding, the device transforms between flexible and rigid states. By transporting the device into the liposome, the conformational change of the origami device induces a structural change in the liposome. The results obtained demonstrate that the programmed DNA origami device can be applied to regulate the microcosmic structural rigidity of liposomes. Because microcosmic structural rigidity is important to cell proliferation and function, the results obtained potentially provide a foundation for the regulation of cell microcosmic structural rigidity using DNA nanostructures.
Optical and Optoelectronic Property Analysis of Nanomaterials inside Transmission Electron Microscope
Authors: Fernando Joseph F. S. , Zhang Chao , Firestein Konstantin L. , Golberg Dmitri 
Published: September 2017

AbstractIn situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) allows one to investigate nanostructures at high spatial resolution in response to external stimuli, such as heat, electrical current, mechanical force and light. This review exclusively focuses on the optical, optoelectronic and photocatalytic studies inside TEM. With the development of TEMs and specialized TEM holders that include in situ illumination and light collection optics, it is possible to perform optical spectroscopies and diverse optoelectronic experiments inside TEM with simultaneous high resolution imaging of nanostructures. Optical TEM holders combining the capability of a scanning tunneling microscopy probe have enabled nanomaterial bending/stretching and electrical measurements in tandem with illumination. Hence, deep insights into the optoelectronic property versus true structure and its dynamics could be established at the nanometer‐range precision thus evaluating the suitability of a nanostructure for advanced light driven technologies. This report highlights systems for in situ illumination of TEM samples and recent research work based on the relevant methods, including nanomaterial cathodoluminescence, photoluminescence, photocatalysis, photodeposition, photoconductivity and piezophototronics.
Recent Advances and Perspectives in Microfluidics‐Based Single‐Cell Biosensing Techniques
Authors: He Jiacheng , Brimmo Ayoola T. , Qasaimeh Mohammad A. , Chen Pengyu , Chen Weiqiang 
Published: September 2017

AbstractSingle‐cell analyses of secretory proteins are essential to fully understand cellular functional heterogeneity and unravel the underlying mechanisms of intercellular signaling and interactions. Retrieving dynamic information of protein secretion at single‐cell resolution reflects the precise, real‐time functional states of individual cells in physiological processes. Such measurements remain very challenging in single‐cell analysis, which requires highly integrated systems capable of performing on‐chip single‐cell isolation and subsequent real‐time protein detection. Here, recent advances in microfluidics‐based single‐cell manipulation and emerging approaches for label‐free single‐cell biosensing are reviewed. The advantages and limitations of these technologies are summarized and challenges to establish the integrated microfluidic biosensing systems for real‐time single‐cell secretomics are discussed. Recent efforts on integrated platforms for on‐chip single‐cell protein assays are highlighted and some perspectives on future directions in this field are provided.
How Do You Effectively Teach Empathy to Students?
Authors: Cuzzo Maria Stalzer Wyant , Larson Mimi Rappley , Mattsson Lisa Miller , McGlasson Terry D. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractThis chapter explores a multidisciplinary approach to teaching empathy in undergraduate and graduate universities. Specific recommended best practices are provided for using postmodernist methods of active teaching and learning on empathy.
How Do You Take Learning Beyond the Classroom in an Interdisciplinary First‐Year Seminar?
Authors: James Peggy , Hudspeth Christopher 
Published: September 2017

AbstractWe suggest four changes to the first‐year experience (FYE): reconceptualize practices of engagement as verbs rather than nouns; remove the discrete borders between teacher and student; develop manifold opportunities within FYE; and create a learning place rather than a learning space.
How Do You Achieve Inclusive Excellence in the Classroom?
Authors: Considine Jennifer R. , Mihalick Jennifer E. , Mogi‐Hein Yoko R. , Penick‐Parks Marguerite W. , Van Auken Paul M. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractThis chapter identifies pedagogical strategies promoting equity for all students. Historical roots of Inclusive Excellence (IE), theories surrounding IE, and ways to affirm student identity are described, as well as factors that may interfere with the adoption of inclusive pedagogy.
Seroprevalence of West Nile virus in horses in different Moroccan regions
Authors: Benjelloun Abdennasser , El Harrak Mehdi , Calistri Paolo , Loutfi Chafiqa , Kabbaj Hafsa , Conte Annamaria , Ippoliti Carla , Danzetta Maria Luisa , Belkadi Bouchra 
Published: September 2017

AbstractWest Nile virus‐associated disease is one of the most widespread vector‐borne diseases in the world. In Morocco, the first cases were reported in horses in 1996 and the disease re‐emerged in 2003 and in 2010. The objective of this work was to study the epidemiological situation of WNV‐associated infection in Morocco, by quantifying the seroprevalence of anti‐WNV IgM and IgG antibodies in horses in different bioclimatic regions‐zones of Morocco in 2011. During the months of May, June and July 2011, 840 serum samples were collected from horses in four regions characterized by different environmental and climatic features such as altitude, temperature and precipitation. These environmental‐climatic regions are: the Atlantic plateaus of the Gharb and pre‐Rif region, the North Atlasic plains and plateaus region, the Atlas Mountains and pre‐Atlas region and the plains and plateaus of the Oriental region. All samples were tested for the anti‐WNV IgG antibodies by ELISA and positive sera were confirmed by virus neutralization (VN). An anti‐WNV antibody prevalence map was developed. A total of 261 samples (31%) were found positive by both techniques. The prevalence of the infection was higher in the Atlantic plateaus of the Gharb and pre‐Rif region, in the northern part of the country. Available data concerning the previous WNV‐associated disease outbreaks in Morocco and the preliminary results of this serological survey suggest that the Moroccan northwest is the region at highest risk for WNV circulation. In this region, the climate is more humid with higher rainfall than other regions and milder winter temperatures exist. In the same area, the presence of migratory bird settlements may affect the risk of virus introduction and amplification.
NATURAL HEDGING IN LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE
Authors: Levantesi Susanna , Menzietti Massimiliano 
Published: September 2017

AbstractWe investigate the application of natural hedging strategies for long-term care (LTC) insurers by diversifying both longevity and disability risks affecting LTC annuities. We propose two approaches to natural hedging: one built on a multivariate duration, the other on the Conditional Value-at-Risk minimization of the unexpected loss. Both the approaches are extended to the LTC insurance using a multiple state framework. In order to represent the future evolution of mortality and disability transition probabilities, we use the stochastic model of Cairns et al. (2009) with cohort effect under parameter uncertainty through a semi-parametric bootstrap procedure. We calculate the optimal level of a product mix and measure the effectiveness provided by the interaction of LTC stand alone, deferred annuity and whole-life insurance. We compare the results obtained by the two approaches and find that a natural hedging strategy for LTC insurers is attainable with a product mix of LTC and annuities, but including low proportion of LTC.
Applications of 256-Slice, Spiral Computed Tomography Perfusion Scanning in Limb Salvage After High-Voltage Electrical Injury
Authors: Ma Pengcheng , Sun Yong , Zhang Xintang , Liu Hui , Liu Canli , Zhao Jing 
Published: September 2017

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the applications of intelligent 256-slice computed tomography (iCT) perfusion imaging in high-voltage electrical injuries (HVEIs).Methods256-slice iCT was used to perform perfusion scanning for 48 patients with HVEI to detect the perfusion parameters.ResultsThe blood flow (BF) and peak enhancement intensity (PEI) values of the plane lower than the amputation level of the diseased side (ALD) were smaller than those of the corresponding healthy side (P<0.05); therefore, the differences were statistically significant. The BF value of the plane beyond the ALD was bigger than that of the ALD (t=2.99 and P=0.042); therefore, the difference was statistically significant. The BF, PEI, and blood volume values of the plane below the ALD were smaller than those of the ALD (P<0.05); therefore, the differences were statistically significant.ConclusionsThe technique of 256-slice iCT perfusion imaging could provide richer and more comprehensive imaging data for the clinical treatment of HVEIs, thus exhibiting its benefit in reducing the disability of patients with HVEIs. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018;12:478–485)
Microcytosis is associated with low cognitive outcomes in healthy 2-year-olds in a high-resource setting
Authors: McCarthy Elaine K. , Kiely Mairead E. , Hannon Geraldine , Ahearne Caroline , Kenny Louise C. , Hourihane Jonathan O’B. , Irvine Alan D. , Murray Deirdre M. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractFe deficiency in early childhood is associated with long-term consequences for cognitive, motor and behavioural development; however explorations in healthy children from low risk, high-resource settings have been limited. We aimed to explore associations between Fe status and neurodevelopmental outcomes in low risk, healthy 2-year-olds. This study was a secondary analysis of a nested case–control subgroup from the prospective, maternal-infant Cork Babies after Screening for Pregnancy Endpoints: Evaluating the Longitudinal Impact using Neurological and Nutritional Endpoints (BASELINE) Birth Cohort Study. At 2 years, serum ferritin, Hb and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) were measured and neurodevelopment was assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (n87). Five children had Fe deficiency (ferritin <12 µg/l) and no child had Fe deficiency anaemia (Hb<110 g/l+ferritin<12 µg/l). Children with microcytosis (MCV<74 fl,n13) had significantly lower mean cognitive composite scores (88·5 (sd13·3)v. 97·0 (sd7·8),P=0·04, Cohen’sdeffect size=0·8) than those without microcytosis. The ferritin concentration which best predicted microcytosis was calculated as 18·4 µg/l (AUC=0·87 (95% CI 0·75, 0·98),P<0·0001, sensitivity 92 %, specificity 75 %). Using 18·5 µg/l as a threshold, children with concentrations <18·5 µg/l had significantly lower mean cognitive composite scores (92·3 (sd10·5)v. 97·8 (sd8·1),P=0·012, Cohen’sdeffect size=0·6) compared with those with ferritin ≥18·5 µg/l. All associations were robust after adjustment for potential confounding factors. Despite a low prevalence of Fe deficiency using current diagnostic criteria in this healthy cohort, microcytosis was associated with lower cognitive outcomes at 2 years. This exploratory study emphasises the need for re-evaluation of the diagnostic criteria for Fe deficiency in young children, with further research in adequately powered studies warranted.
The effect of anthocyanin supplementation in modulating platelet function in sedentary population: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial
Authors: Thompson Kiara , Hosking Holly , Pederick Wayne , Singh Indu , Santhakumar Abishek B. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractThe anti-thrombotic properties of anthocyanin (ACN) supplementation was evaluated in this randomised, double-blind, placebo (PBO) controlled, cross-over design, dietary intervention trial in sedentary population. In all, sixteen participants (three males and thirteen females) consumed ACN (320 mg/d) or PBO capsules for 28 d followed by a 2-week wash-out period. Biomarkers of thrombogenesis and platelet activation induced by ADP; platelet aggregation induced by ADP, collagen and arachidonic acid; biochemical, lipid, inflammatory and coagulation profile were evaluated before and after supplementation. ACN supplementation reduced monocyte-platelet aggregate formation by 39 %; inhibited platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 expression by 14 %; reduced platelet activation-dependant conformational change and degranulation by reducing procaspase activating compound-1 (PAC-1) (↓10 %) and P-selectin expression (↓14 %), respectively; and reduced ADP-induced whole blood platelet aggregation by 29 %. Arachidonic acid and collagen-induced platelet aggregation; biochemical, lipid, inflammatory and coagulation parameters did not change post-ACN supplementation. PBO treatment did not have an effect on the parameters tested. The findings suggest that dietary ACN supplementation has the potential to alleviate biomarkers of thrombogenesis, platelet hyperactivation and hyper-aggregation in sedentary population.
Laser-generated Richtmyer–Meshkov and Rayleigh–Taylor instabilities. III. Near-peripheral region of Gaussian spot
Authors: Lugomer Stjepan 
Published: September 2017

AbstractDynamics and organization of laser-generated three-dimensional (3D) Richtmyer–Meshkov (RMI) and Rayleigh–Taylor instabilities (RMI and RTI) on metal target in the semiconfined configuration are different in the central region (CR) (Lugomer, 2016), near central region (NCR) (Lugomer, 2017) and the near periphery region (NPR) of the Gaussian-like spot. The RMI/RTI in the NPR evolve from the shock and series of reshocks associated with lateral expansion and increase of the vapor density, decrease of the Atwood number and momentum transfer. Scanning electron micrographs show irregular (chaotic) web of the base-plane walls, and mushroom spikes on its nodal points with disturbed two-dimensional (2D) lattice organization. Lattice disturbance is caused by the incoherent wavy motion of background fluid due to fast reshocks, which after series of reflections change their strength and direction. Reconstruction of the disturbed lattice reveals rectangular lattice of mushroom spikes with p2mm symmetry. The splitting (bifurcation) of mushroom diameter distribution on the large and small mushroom spikes increases with radial distance from the center of Gaussian-like spot. Dynamics of their evolution is represented by the orbits or stable periods in 2D phase space. The constant mushroom diameter – stable circulation or the stable periodic orbits – are the limit cycles between the unstable spiral orbits. Those with increasing periods represent supercritical Hopf bifurcation, while those leading to decrease and disappearance represent subcritical Hopf bifurcation. The empirical models of RMI, although predict dependence of the growth rate on radial distance (distance the reshocks travel to reach the interface), show many limitations. More appropriate interpretation of the simultaneous growth and lattice organization of small and large spikes give the fundamental model based on the interference of the perturbation modes depending on their amplitude, relative phase, and the symmetry. The late-time instability in the base-plane evolves into line solitons, vortex filaments and wave–vortex structures with chaotic rather than stochastic features.
Novel Method for Preparing Transmission Electron Microscopy Samples of Micrometer-Sized Powder Particles by Using Focused Ion Beam
Authors: Kim Tae-Hoon , Kang Min-Chul , Jung Ga-Bin , Kim Dong Soo , Yang Cheol-Woong 
Published: September 2017

AbstractThe preparation of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) samples from powders is quite difficult and challenging. For powders with particles in the 1–5μm size range, it is especially difficult to select an adequate sample preparation technique. Epoxy is commonly used to bind powder, but drawbacks, such as differential milling originating from unequal milling rates between the epoxy and powder, remain. We propose a new, simple method for preparing TEM samples. This method is especially useful for powders with particles in the 1–5μm size range that are vulnerable to oxidation. The method uses solder as an embedding agent together with focused ion beam (FIB) milling. The powder was embedded in low-temperature solder using a conventional hot-mounting instrument. Subsequently, FIB was used to fabricate thin TEM samples via the lift-out technique. The solder proved to be more effective than epoxy in producing thin TEM samples with large areas. The problem of differential milling was mitigated, and the solder binder was more stable than epoxy under an electron beam. This methodology can be applied for preparing TEM samples from various powders that are either vulnerable to oxidation or composed of high atomic number elements.