bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Preparation and studies of new phosphorus‐containing diols as potential flame retardants
Authors: Wang Kui , Morgan Alexander B. , Benin Vladimir 
Published: May 2017

SummarySeveral new phosphorus‐containing potential flame retardants (FRs) were prepared and evaluated for heat release reduction potential, by incorporation of the molecules into polyurethane samples, generated from methylene diphenyl diisocyanate and 1,3‐propane diol. The potential FRs were all prepared from commercial diisocyanates, with the phosphorus‐containing substructure introduced as a semicarbazone. All of the target structures were diols, to facilitate their incorporation into a polyurethane main chain. The polyurethane samples were prepared via copolymerization, and analysis clearly demonstrated that the potential FRs were chemically incorporated, prior to heat release testing. The heat‐release reduction potential of these substances was evaluated using the microcombustion calorimeter. Results demonstrated that both heat release reduction potential and char formation were structure dependent. Some of the compounds containing an aromatic core had more effect on char formation (higher char yields) and peak heat‐release rate (lowered heat release) than just phosphorus content alone.
Chemosensory characterization of virgin olive oils obtained from organic and conventional practices during fruit ripening
Authors: Jiménez Brígida , Rivas Ana , Lorenzo María Luisa , Sánchez‐Ortiz Araceli 
Published: May 2017

AbstractThe current increase in demand for organic products by consumers, including virgin olive oils (VOO), makes it necessary to study the characteristics of these types of foods. Moreover, the higher quality of organic products versus that of conventional products is controversial. In this regard, the chemosensory qualities of several virgin olive oils produced from fruit grown in an experimental orchard at four different stages of maturation under organic and conventional management systems were analysed. The resulting oils were subjected to sensory and chemical analyses. According to the data organic virgin olive oils showed higher concentrations of volatile compounds synthesized throughout lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway, responsible for green grass and olive fruity sensory attributes and showed lower concentrations of phenols, related to bitter and pungent attributes. Sensorily, conventional oils were more bitter and richer in green‐leaf character, while organic oils were sweeter. Multivariate analysis showed that 10 sensory descriptors and 6 compositional parameters clearly discriminate between Picual and Hojiblanca cultivars and between organic and conventional samples. These results could be useful to clarify the different sensory characteristic between virgin olive oils obtained by conventional and organic olive crops.
Nickel Depletion and Agglomeration in SOFC Anodes During Long‐Term Operation
Authors: Zekri A. , Herbrig K. , Knipper M. , Parisi J. , Plaggenborg T. 
Published: May 2017

AbstractLow degradation is a key feature for a successful commercialization of solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) systems. A variety of degradation mechanisms influences the overall degradation rate. Nickel depletion, agglomeration and coarsening in anodes during operation are considered as an important degradation mechanism. In this work, the microstructure of SOFC anodes of electrolyte‐supported cells with operation times up to 20,000 hours (850 °C) were analyzed. The examined anodes consist of a porous cermet of nickel and gadolinium doped ceria. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis were used to investigate the nickel distribution in the anode. The results show nickel depletion at the electrolyte/anode interface, which becomes more noticeable for increased operation time. In addition, nickel agglomeration in the contact layer and in the functional layer was found. A relationship between nickel agglomeration and depletion was deduced.
Biocompatibility of four common orthopedic biomaterials following neuroelectromyostimulation: Anin‐vivostudy
Authors: Lecocq Mathieu , Felix Marie‐Solenne , Bernard Cécile , Linares Jean‐Marc , Chaves‐Jacob Julien , Decherchi Patrick , Dousset Erick 
Published: May 2017

AbstractDespite the worldwide high prevalence of total joint arthroplasty (TJA), life expectancy of prosthesis remains limited by mechanical and chemical constraint which promote wear debris production, surrounding tissues damage and finally prosthesis loosening. Such results could be amplified by neuro‐myoelectrostimulation (NMES; widely used to reduce neuromuscular deficits observed following TJA surgery). It was previously described in anin vivoexperiment that interactions between NMES and Ti6Al4V implant are deleterious for both implant and surrounding muscles. The purpose of the present study was to compare the biocompatibility of four common orthopedic biomaterials, two metallic (Ti6Al4V, CrCo) and two nonmetallic (PEEK, Al2O3) alloys, fixed on rat tibial crest in which the surrounding muscles were electrostimulated. Muscle cell death rate was not found significantly increased, with or without electrical stimulation for nonmetallic implants. Contrary to Ti6Al4V alloy, the CrCo implant did not induce destruction of the surrounding muscle. However, cell viability decreased for both metallic alloys when NMES was applied but within a greater significant extent for Ti6Al4V implant. Otherwise, when NMES was applied, implant‐to‐bone adhesion significantly decreased for Ti6Al4V while no significant difference was found for PEEK, Al2O3, and CrCo. Statistical analyses reveal also a lesser adhesion strength for Ti6Al4V compared with CrCo when NMES was applied. Selecting the most suitable material in term of biocompatibility remains a major concern and non‐metallic materials seems to be more appropriated in regard to electrical currents used for post TJA care. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1156–1164, 2018.
Male‐on‐male sexual assault: Victim, offender and offence characteristics
Authors: Ioannou Maria , Hammond Laura , Machin Laura 
Published: May 2017

AbstractUnlike male‐on‐female sexual assaults, little is known about the nature of male‐on‐male sexual assault, especially in terms of victim, offender and offence characteristics. The present paper systematically reviews the limited research into male‐on‐male sexual offences in order to ascertain the current state of knowledge with regards to these issues. An extensive search resulted in the identification of 15 empirical studies, with a total of 5,112 cases of male‐on‐male sexual assaults, for inclusion in the analyses. Findings revealed that, in the main, both victims and offenders of this type of offence tend to be young and heterosexual. Offenders tend to act alone during the assault and to be previously acquainted with the victim. Most male‐on‐male sexual assaults are violent in nature, taking place in either the victim's or the offender's home. Victims are subjected to various sexual acts, with anal penetration being the most frequent, and victims are frequently forced to perform oral sex on the offender. The implications of these findings, as well as limitations of the reviewed studies and directions for future research, are discussed.
Multiscale and macroscopic modeling of magneto‐elastic behavior of soft magnetic steel sheets
Authors: Vanoost Dries , Steentjes Simon , Peuteman Joan , De Gersem Herbert , Pissoort Davy , Hameyer Kay 
Published: May 2017

AbstractThis paper compares different energy‐based magneto‐mechanical models, which describe the magnetization changes that a magnetostrictive and anisotropic material undergoes when subjected to a quasi‐static H‐field excitation and tensile or compressive external stress. The magnetic behavior is either characterized by considering the phenomenological energy‐based Hauser hysteresis model or by the recently introduced hysteresis energy. The effect of mechanical stress is included naturally in the energy summation of the multiscale models. Properties of the different models, such as accuracy and parameter identification, are illustrated by comparison with experimental data for a nonoriented FeSi3% electrical steel grade.
Lentigo maligna melanoma with a history of cosmetic treatment: Prevalence, surgical outcomes and considerations
Authors: Hibler Brian P. , Connolly Karen L. , Lee Erica H. , Rossi Anthony M. , Nehal Kishwer S. 
Published: May 2017

IntroductionLentigo maligna (LM) is melanoma in situ on sun‐damaged skin and presents diagnostic challenges due to overlapping features with benign pigmented lesions. Cosmetic treatments may be inadvertently performed on LM. The aim of this study is to estimate the prevalence of LM with prior cosmetic treatment, and evaluate surgical outcomes.Study Design and MethodsRetrospective review of biopsy‐proven LM presenting over a 10‐year‐period (2006–2015). Prior cosmetic treatment and biopsies were recorded. Records were reviewed for demographic data, clinical characteristics, and surgical outcomes.Results37/503 (7.4%) patients with LM reported prior cosmetic therapy. Most (95%) were on the head and neck; mean size 1.9 cm. Most patients reported cryotherapy (73%), followed by laser (29.7%), topical bleaching agents (18.9%), and electrodessication, and/or curettage (5.3%). Ten patients (27%) received two or more modalities. Eight patients (21.6%) reported prior benign biopsies. Six patients (16%) had invasive disease, two on initial biopsy and 4/34 (11.7%) upstaged upon excision. Average margin for clearance was 9.1 mm.ConclusionPrior cosmetic treatment of LM is not uncommon, and may delay diagnosis and obscure borders, resulting in wider surgical margins. Clinicians should consider a biopsy confirming the benign nature of equivocal lesions prior to cosmetic treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:819–826, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Demonstration of the utility of biomarkers for dietary intake assessment; proline betaine as an example
Authors: Gibbons Helena , Michielsen Charlotte J. R. , Rundle Milena , Frost Gary , McNulty Breige A. , Nugent Anne P. , Walton Janette , Flynn Albert , Gibney Michael J. , Brennan Lorraine 
Published: May 2017

ScopeThere is a dearth of studies demonstrating the use of dietary biomarkers for determination of food intake. The objective of this study was to develop calibration curves for use in quantifying citrus intakes in an independent cohort.Methods and resultsParticipants (n = 50) from the NutriTech food‐intake study consumed standardized breakfasts for three consecutive days over three consecutive weeks. Orange juice intake decreased over the weeks. Urine samples were analyzed by NMR‐spectroscopy and proline betaine was quantified and normalized to osmolality. Calibration curves were developed and used to predict citrus intake in an independent cohort; the Irish National Adult Nutrition Survey (NANS) (n = 565). Proline betaine displayed a dose‐response relationship to orange juice intake in 24 h and fasting samples (p < 0.001). In a test set, predicted orange juice intakes displayed excellent agreement with true intake. There were significant associations between predicted intake measured in 24 h and fasting samples and true intake (r = 0.710–0.919). Citrus intakes predicted for the NANS cohort demonstrated good agreement with self‐reported intake and this agreement improved following normalization to osmolality.ConclusionThe developed calibration curves successfully predicted citrus intakes in an independent cohort. Expansion of this approach to other foods will be important for the development of objective intake measurements.
A novel multilayer MV imager computational model for component optimization
Authors: Myronakis Marios , Star‐Lack Josh , Baturin Paul , Rottmann Joerg , Morf Daniel , Wang Adam , Hu Yue‐Houng , Shedlock Daniel , Berbeco Ross I. 
Published: May 2017

PurposeA novel Megavoltage (MV) multilayer imager (MLI) design featuring higher detective quantum efficiency and lower noise than current conventional MV imagers in clinical use has been recently reported. Optimization of the MLI design for multiple applications including tumor tracking, MV‐CBCT and portal dosimetry requires a computational model that will provide insight into the physics processes that affect the overall and individual components’ performance. The purpose of the current work was to develop and validate a comprehensive computational model that can be used for MLI optimization.MethodsThe MLI model was built using the Geant4 Application for Tomographic Emission (GATE) application. The model includes x‐ray and charged‐particle interactions as well as the optical transfer within the phosphor. A first prototype MLI device featuring a stack of four detection layers was used for model validation. Each layer of the prototype contains a copper buildup plate, a phosphor screen and photodiode array. The model was validated against measured data of Modulation Transfer Function (MTF), Noise‐Power Spectrum (NPS), and Detective Quantum Efficiency (DQE). MTF was computed using a slanted slit with 2.3° angle and 0.1 mm width. NPS was obtained using the autocorrelation function technique. DQE was calculated from MTF and NPS data. The comparison metrics between simulated and measured data were the Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) and the normalized root‐mean‐square error (NRMSE).ResultsGood agreement between measured and simulated MTF and NPS values was observed. Pearson's correlation coefficient for the combined signal from all layers of the MLI was equal to 0.9991 for MTF and 0.9992 for NPS; NRMSE was 0.0121 for MTF and 0.0194 for NPS. Similarly, the DQE correlation coefficient for the combined signal was 0.9888 and the NRMSE was 0.0686.ConclusionsA comprehensive model of the novel MLI design was developed using the GATE toolkit and validated against measured MTF, NPS, and DQE data acquired with a prototype device featuring four layers. This model will be used for further optimization of the imager components and configuration for clinical radiotherapy applications.
Two‐step inversion with a logarithmic transformation for microwave breast imaging
Authors: Meaney Paul M. , Geimer Shireen D. , Paulsen Keith D. 
Published: May 2017

PurposeThe authors have developed a new two‐step microwave tomographic image reconstruction process specifically designed to incorporate logarithmic transformed microwave imaging algorithms as a means of significantly improving spatial resolution and target property recovery. Log transform eliminates the need for a priori information, but spatial filtering often integrated as part of the regularization required to stabilize image recovery, generally smooths image features and reduces object definition. The new implementation begins with this smoothed image as the first step, but then utilizes it as the starting estimate for a second step which continues the iterative process with a standard weighted Euclidean distance regularization. The penalty term of the latter restricts the new image to a multi‐dimensional location close to the original but allows the algorithm to optimize the image without excessive smoothing.MethodsThe overall approach is based on a Gauss‐Newton iterative scheme which incorporates a log transformation as a way of making the reconstruction more linear. It has been shown to be robust and not require a priori information as a condition for convergence, but does produce somewhat smoothed images as a result of associated regularization. The new two‐step process utilizes the previous technique to generate a smoothed initial estimate and then uses the same reconstruction process with a weighted Euclidean distance penalty term. A simple and repeatable method has been implemented to determine the weighting factor without significant computational burden. The reconstructions are assessed according to conventional parameter estimation metrics.ResultsWe apply the approach to phantom experiments using large, high contrast canonical shapes followed by a set of images recovered from an actual patient exam. The image improvements are substantial in regards to improved property recovery and feature delineation without inducing unwanted artifacts. Analysis of the residual vector after the reconstruction process further emphasizes that the minimization criterion is efficient with minimal biases.ConclusionsThe outcome is a novel synergism of an established stable reconstruction algorithm with a conventional regularization technique. It maintains the ability to recover high quality microwave tomographic images without the bias of a priori information while substantially improving image quality. The results are confirmed on both phantom experiments and patient exams.
Simplified derivation of stopping power ratio in the human body from dual‐energy CT data
Authors: Saito Masatoshi , Sagara Shota 
Published: May 2017

PurposeThe main objective of this study is to propose an alternative parameterization for the empirical relation between mean excitation energies (I‐value) and effective atomic numbers (Zeff) of human tissues, and to present a simplified formulation (which we called DEEDZ‐SPR) for deriving the stopping power ratio (SPR) from dual‐energy (DE) CT data via electron density (ρe) and Zeff calibration.MethodsWe performed a numerical analysis of this DEEDZ‐SPR method for the human‐body‐equivalent tissues of ICRU Report 46, as objects of interest with unknown SPR and ρe. The attenuation coefficients of these materials were calculated using the XCOM photon cross‐sections database. We also applied the DEEDZ‐SPR conversion to experimental DECT data available in the literature, which was measured for the tissue‐characterization phantom using a dual‐source CT scanner at 80 kV and 140 kV/Sn.ResultsIt was found that the DEEDZ‐SPR conversion enables the calculation of SPR simply by means of the weighted subtraction of an electron‐density image and a low‐ or high‐kV CT image. The simulated SPRs were in excellent agreement with the reference values over the SPR range from 0.258 (lung) to 3.638 (bone mineral‐hydroxyapatite). The relative deviations from the reference SPR were within ±0.6% for all ICRU‐46 human tissues, except for the thyroid that presented a −1.1% deviation. The overall root‐mean‐square error was 0.21%. Application to experimental DECT data confirmed this agreement within the experimental accuracy, which demonstrates the practical feasibility of the method.ConclusionsThe DEEDZ‐SPR conversion method could facilitate the construction of SPR images as accurately as a recent DECT‐based calibration procedure of SPR parameterization based directly on the CT numbers in a DECT data set.
A robust diffusion tensor model for clinical applications of MRI to cartilage
Authors: Ferizi Uran , Ruiz Amparo , Rossi Ignacio , Bencardino Jenny , Raya José G. 
Published: May 2017

PurposeDiffusion tensor imaging (DTI) of articular cartilage is a promising technique for the early diagnosis of osteoarthritis (OA). However, in vivo diffusion tensor (DT) measurements suffer from low signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) that can result in bias when estimating the six parameters of the full DT, thus reducing sensitivity. This study seeks to validate a simplified four‐parameter DT model (zeppelin) for obtaining more robust and sensitive in vivo DTI biomarkers of cartilage.MethodsWe use simulations in a substrate to mimic changes during OA; and analytic simulations of the DT drawn from a range of fractional anisotropies (FA) measured with high‐quality DT data from ex vivo human cartilage. We also use in vivo data from the knees of a healthy subject and two OA patients with Kellgren‐Lawrence (KL) grades 1 and 2.ResultsFor simulated in vivo cartilage SNR (∼25) and anisotropy levels, the estimated mean values of MD from the DT and zeppelin models were identical to the ground truth values. However, zeppelin's FA is more accurate in measuring water restriction. More specifically, the FA estimations of the DT model were additionally biased by between +2% and +48% with respect to zeppelin values. Additionally, both mean diffusivity (MD) and FA of the zeppelin had lower parameter variance compared to the full DT (F‐test, P < 0.05). We observe the same trends from in vivo values of patient data.ConclusionThe zeppelin is more robust than the full DT for cartilage diffusion anisotropy and SNR at levels typically encountered in clinical applications of articular cartilage. Magn Reson Med 79:1157–1164, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Optimization and characterization of electrospun chitosan/poly(vinyl alcohol) nanofibers as a phenol adsorbent via response surface methodology
Authors: Yousefi Abdolmaleki Aliyeh , Zilouei Hamid , Nouri Khorasani Saied , Abdolmaleki Amir 
Published: May 2017

Fabrication and characterization of chitosan/poly(vinyl alcohol) electrospun nanofibers for adsorption of phenol from water were investigated. The effects of voltage (15–30 kV), solution injection flow rate (0.5–1.5 ml/hr), distance of needle and collector (10–20 cm) and chitosan/poly(vinyl alcohol) ratio (25/75, 50/50, 75/25) were studied to obtain the optimum electrospinning conditions for the maximum adsorption capacity of phenol. Central composite design (CCD) was used to investigate and optimize the processing factors for production of chitosan/poly(vinyl alcohol) nanofibers from aqueous solutions. The nanofibers were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Uniform beadless nanofibers with the minimum diameters of 3–11 nm were obtained at chitosan/poly(vinyl alcohol) ratio of 50/50, voltage of 22.5 kV, distance of 15 cm and injection flow rate of 1.99 ml hr−1. Fourier transform infrared spectrum of chitosan/poly(vinyl alcohol) exhibited the existence of relevant functional groups of both poly(vinyl alcohol) and chitosan in the blends. Results of CCD show that among all processing factors, rate of electrospinning will highly affect the nanofiber adsorption. The response surface quadratic order model presented correlation coefficient explaining 69.5% of the variability in the adsorption. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of silica–polyvinyl imidazole core–shell nanoparticles via combination of RAFT polymerization and grafting‐to method
Authors: Gargari Jafar Ettehadi , Shakeri Alireza , Kalal Hossein Sid , Khanchi Alireza , Rashedi Hamid 
Published: May 2017

The silica–polyvinyl imidazole core–shell nanoparticles (silica/PVI NPs) with controlled shell thickness and narrow distribution size were fabricated via “grafting‐to” method. First, O‐ethyl xanthate terminated PVI with various chain lengths was produced via the reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization using O‐ethyl‐S‐phenyl dithiocarbonate (EPDC) as RAFT agent. Next, three synthesized PVI of different molecular weights (3.4, 6.6, and 11 kg/mol) were successfully grafted to the methacrylate modified silica NPs from solution by radical mediated grafting‐to method. These core–shell NPs were then characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectrum measurements (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Polyvinyl imidazole molecular weight, reaction time, polymer concentration, and reaction temperature were all used to control the grafting reaction for PVI grafting densities and shell thicknesses. The highest grafting density obtained was close to 1.2 chains/nm2 and was achieved for 3.4 kg/mol PVI at 80°C. The prepared silica/PVINP displayed efficient antifouling properties and stability in concentrated sodium chloride aqueous solutions over a broad pH range for a period of at least 7 days. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.