bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assisted reverse electrodialysis—principles, mechanisms, and potential
Authors: Vanoppen Marjolein , Criel Ella , Walpot Griet , Vermaas David A. , Verliefde Arne
Published: May 2018

Although seawater reverse osmosis (RO) is nearing its thermodynamic minimum energy limit, it is still an energy-intensive process, requiring 2–3 kWh/m³ at a recovery of 50%. Pre-desalination of the seawater by reverse electrodialysis (RED), using an impaired water source, can further decrease this energy demand by producing energy and reducing the seawater concentration. However, RED is hampered by the initial high resistance of the fresh water source, resulting in a high required membrane area (i.e., high investment costs). In this paper, a new process is presented that can overcome this initial resistance and decrease the RED investment cost without the need for additional infrastructure: assisted RED (ARED). In ARED, a small potential difference is applied in the direction of the natural salinity gradient, increasing the ionic transport rate and rapidly decreasing the initial diluate resistance. This decreasing resistance is shown to outweigh any negative effects caused by, for example, concentration polarization, resulting in a process that is more efficient than theoretically expected. As this effect is mainly important at low diluate concentrations (up to 0.1 M), ARED is proposed as a first step in an economic and energy efficient (A)RED-RO hybrid process.
A human huntingtin SNP alters post-translational modification and pathogenic proteolysis of the protein causing Huntington disease
Authors: Martin D. D. O. , Kay C. , Collins J. A. , Nguyen Y. T. , Slama R. A. , Hayden M. R.
Published: May 2018

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are key modulators of protein function. Huntington disease (HD) is a dominantly inherited neurodegenerative disorder caused by an expanded CAG trinucleotide repeat in the huntingtin (HTT) gene. A spectrum of PTMs have been shown to modify the normal functions of HTT, including proteolysis, phosphorylation and lipidation, but the full contribution of these PTMs to the molecular pathogenesis of HD remains unclear. In this study, we examine all commonly occurring missense mutations in HTT to identify potential human modifiers of HTT PTMs relevant to HD biology. We reveal a SNP that modifies post-translational myristoylation of HTT, resulting in downstream alterations to toxic HTT proteolysis in human cells. This is the first SNP shown to functionally modify a PTM in HD and the first validated genetic modifier of post-translational myristoylation. This SNP is a high-priority candidate modifier of HD phenotypes and may illuminate HD biology in human studies.
Adjusted Troponin I for Improved Evaluation of Patients with Chest Pain
Authors: Boeckel Jes-Niels , Palapies Lars , Klotsche Jens , Zeller Tanja , von Jeinsen Beatrice , Perret Maya F. , Kleinhaus Soeren L. , Pieper Lars , Tzikas Stergios , Leistner David , Bickel Christoph , Stalla Günter K. , Lehnert Hendrik , Lindahl Bertil , Wittchen Hans-Ulrich , Silber Sigmund , Baldus Stephan , Maerz Winfried , Dimmeler Stefanie , Blankenberg Stefan , Münzel Thomas , Zeiher Andreas M. , Keller Till
Published: May 2018

The use of cardiac troponins (cTn) is the gold standard for diagnosing myocardial infarction. Independent of myocardial infarction (MI), however, sex, age and kidney function affect cTn levels. Here we developed a method to adjust cTnI levels for age, sex, and renal function, maintaining a unified cut-off value such as the 99th percentile. A total of 4587 individuals enrolled in a prospective longitudinal study were used to develop a model for adjustment of cTn. cTnI levels correlated with age and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in males/females with rage = 0.436/0.518 and with reGFR = −0.142/−0.207. For adjustment, these variables served as covariates in a linear regression model with cTnI as dependent variable. This adjustment model was then applied to a real-world cohort of 1789 patients with suspected acute MI (AMI) (N = 407). Adjusting cTnI showed no relevant loss of diagnostic information, as evidenced by comparable areas under the receiver operator characteristic curves, to identify AMI in males and females for adjusted and unadjusted cTnI. In specific patients groups such as in elderly females, adjusting cTnI improved specificity for AMI compared with unadjusted cTnI. Specificity was also improved in patients with renal dysfunction by using the adjusted cTnI values. Thus, the adjustments improved the diagnostic ability of cTnI to identify AMI in elderly patients and in patients with renal dysfunction. Interpretation of cTnI values in complex emergency cases is facilitated by our method, which maintains a single diagnostic cut-off value in all patients.
Extended-conjugation π-electron systems in carbon nanotubes
Authors: Miyaura Kenshi , Miyata Yasumitsu , Thendie Boanerges , Yanagi Kazuhiro , Kitaura Ryo , Yamamoto Yuta , Arai Shigeo , Kataura Hiromichi , Shinohara Hisanori
Published: May 2018

Extending π-electron systems are among the most important topics in physics, chemistry and materials science because they can result in functional materials with applications in electronics and optics. Conventional processes for π-electron extension, however, can generate products exhibiting chemical instability, poor solubility or disordered structures. Herein, we report a novel strategy for the synthesis of π-conjugated polymers within the interiors of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). In this process, thiophene-based oligomers are encapsulated within CNTs as precursors and are subsequently polymerized by thermal annealing. This polymerization increases the effective conjugation length of the thiophenes, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and absorption peak red shifts. This work also demonstrates that these polythiophenes can serve as effective markers for individual CNTs during Raman imaging with single-wavelength laser excitation due to their strong absorbance. In addition, stable carrier injection into the encapsulated polythiophenes is found to be possible via electrochemical doping. Such doping has the potential to produce π-electron-based one-dimensional conductive wires and highly stable electrochromic devices.
Socioeconomic, environmental and lifestyle factors associated with gestational diabetes mellitus: A matched case-control study in Beijing, China
Authors: Carroll Xianming , Liang Xianhong , Zhang Wenyan , Zhang Wenjing , Liu Gaifen , Turner Nannette , Leeper-Woodford Sandra
Published: May 2018

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common health problem during pregnancy and its prevalence is increasing globally, especially in China. The aim of this study was to investigate socioeconomic, environmental and lifestyle factors associated with GDM in Chinese women. A matched pair case-control study was conducted with 276 GDM women and 276 non-GDM women in two hospitals in Beijing, China. Matched factors include age and pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI). GDM subjects were defined based on the International Association of Diabetes Study Group criteria for GDM. A conditional logistic regression model with backward stepwise selection was performed to predict the odds ratio (OR) for associated factors of GDM. The analyses of data show that passive smoking at home (OR = 1.52, p = 0.027), passive smoking in the workplace (OR = 1.71, p = 0.01), and family history of diabetes in first degree relatives (OR = 3.07, p = 0.004), were significant factors associated with GDM in Chinese women. These findings may be utilized as suggestions to decrease the incidence of GDM in Chinese women by improving the national tobacco control policy and introducing public health interventions to focus on the social environment of pregnant women in China.
A novel SNP in the 5’ regulatory region of organic anion transporter 1 is associated with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Sun Chiao-Yin , Wu Mai-Szu , Lee Chin-Chan , Chen Shu-Hong , Lo Kang-Chieh , Chen Yau-Hung
Published: May 2018

We aimed to analyze the associations of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the 5′ regulatory region of the human organic anion transporter 1 (OAT1) gene with chronic kidney disease (CKD). A case-control study including age- and sex-matched groups of normal subjects and patients with CKD (n = 162 each) was designed. Direct sequencing of the 5′ regulatory region (+88 to −1196 region) showed that patients with CKD had a higher frequency of the −475 SNP (T > T/G) than normal subjects (14/162vs. 2/162). The luciferase activity assay results indicated that the −475G SNP had a higher promoter efficiency than the −475T SNP. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and LC/MS/MS analyses showed that the −475G SNP up-regulated 26 proteins and down-regulated 74 proteins. The Southwestern blot assay results revealed that the −475G SNP decreased the binding of Hepatoma-derived growth factor (HDGF), a transcription repressor, compared to the −475T SNP. Overexpression of HDGF significantly down-regulated OAT1 in renal tubular cells. Moreover, a zebrafish animal model showed that HDGF-knockdown zebrafish embryos had higher rates of kidney malformation than wild-type controls [18/78 (23.1%) vs. 1/30 (3.3%)]. In conclusion, our results suggest that an OAT1 SNP might be clinically associated with CKD. Renal tubular cells with the −475 SNP had increased OAT1 expression, which resulted in increased transportation of organic anion toxins into cells. Cellular accumulation of organic anion toxins caused cytotoxicity and resulted in CKD.
Maternal predator odour exposure programs metabolic responses in adult offspring
Authors: St-Cyr Sophie , Abuaish Sameera , Welch Kenneth C. , McGowan Patrick O.
Published: May 2018

A cardinal feature of the reaction to stress is the promotion of energy mobilization, enabling appropriate behavioural responses. Predator odours are naturalistic and ecologically relevant stressors present over evolutionary timescales. In this study, we asked whether maternal predator odour exposure could program long-term energy mobilization in C57BL/6 mice offspring. To test this hypothesis, we measured rates of oxygen consumption in prenatally predator odour exposed mice in adulthood while controlling for levels of locomotor activity at baseline and under stress. Circulating thyroid hormone levels and the transcript abundance of key regulators of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis within the periventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus and in the liver, including carriers and receptors and thyrotropin-releasing hormone, were measured as endocrine mediators facilitating energy availability. Prenatally predator odour exposed mice of both sexes mobilized more energy during lower energy demand periods of the day and under stressful conditions. Further, prenatally predator odour exposed mice displayed modifications of their hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis through increased circulating thyroxine and thyroid hormone receptor α within the PVN and decreased transthyretin in the liver. Overall, these results suggest that maternal exposure to predator odour is sufficient to increase long-term energy mobilization in adult offspring.
Mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2, and a panel of 50 cancer-associated genes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Takeuchi Shoko , Doi Manami , Ikari Naoki , Yamamoto Masakazu , Furukawa Toru
Published: May 2018

Mutations in genes of the breast cancer susceptibility gene (BRCA) pathway, namely, BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2, can provide useful information for the efficacy of platinum-based or poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors chemotherapeutic regimens. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an important target for such precision chemotherapies because of its dismal prognosis. We analyzed mutations in the entire coding regions of the BRCA pathway genes, expression of breast cancer 2 (BRCA2), and mutations in hotspots of 50 cancer-associated genes in 42 surgically resected PDACs, and evaluated their associations with clinicopathological features. We identified 13 rare germline mutations in the BRCA pathway genes; 68 somatic mutations in KRAS, TP53, SMAD4, CDKN2A, GNAS, SMARCB1, and RB1; and 2 germline variations in MLH1. Among them, BRCA2S2148fs was known to be pathogenic. BRCA2R18H and BRCA2G2044V were enriched in tumor tissues. BRCA2K799R and BRCA2R2964T were novel germline variations. Patients harboring potentially deleterious mutations in the BRCA pathway genes showed significantly better prognosis than those with benign mutations or no mutation. These results indicate that rare germline variations in BRCA pathway genes could be found more frequently than previously anticipated and, more importantly, potentially deleterious mutations of them could be a favorable prognostic factor in patients with resectable PDACs.
Salvianolic acids from antithrombotic Traditional Chinese Medicine Danshen are antagonists of human P2Y1 and P2Y12 receptors
Authors: Liu Xuyang , Gao Zhan-Guo , Wu Yiran , Stevens Raymond C. , Jacobson Kenneth A. , Zhao Suwen
Published: May 2018

Many hemorheologic Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCMs) that are widely-used clinically lack molecular mechanisms of action. We hypothesized that some of the active components of hemorheologic TCMs may function through targeting prothrombotic P2Y1 and/or P2Y12 receptors. The interactions between 253 antithrombotic compounds from TCM and these two G protein-coupled P2Y receptors were evaluated using virtual screening. Eleven highly ranked hits were further tested in radioligand binding and functional assays. Among these compounds, salvianolic acid A and C antagonized the activity of both P2Y1 and P2Y12 receptors in the low µM range, while salvianolic acid B antagonized the P2Y12 receptor. These three salvianolic acids are the major active components of the broadly-used hemorheologic TCM Danshen (Salvia militorrhiza), the antithrombotic molecular mechanisms of which were largely unknown. Thus, the combination of virtual screening and experimental validation identified potential mechanisms of action of multicomponent drugs that are already employed clinically.
A practical approach to scale-adaptive deep convection in a GCM by controlling the cumulus base mass flux
Authors: Ahn Min-Seop , Kang In-Sik
Published: May 2018

As the horizontal resolution of general circulation model (GCM) is increased, the sub-grid scale vertical transport has to be decreased appropriately. In the present study, a resolution-dependent (so-called scale-adaptive or scale-aware) deep convection was formulated by controlling the cumulus base mass flux. Using a three-dimensional cloud resolving model simulation, we estimated the appropriate ratios of the sub-grid scale vertical transport to the total vertical transport of moist static energy for different horizontal resolutions, whose values are about 0.8 for 100 km resolution and about 0.6 for 50 km resolution. Those values were used as a guideline to decrease to the ratio of convective precipitation to the total precipitation in a high-resolution GCM. The cumulus base mass flux is reduced by multiplying a reduction coefficient, which is 0.2 for the 100 km resolution and 0.09 for the 50 km resolution in the present GCM. The GCM with the scale-adaptive deep convection produces the climatological mean precipitation similar to that of the original GCM, whereas it simulates the heavy precipitation frequency and the Madden and Julian Oscillation much better than those of the original GCM.
Correction: Corrigendum: Applying torque to the Escherichia coli flagellar motor using magnetic tweezers
Authors: van Oene Maarten M. , Dickinson Laura E. , Cross Bronwen , Pedaci Francesco , Lipfert Jan , Dekker Nynke H.
Published: May 2018

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 43285; published online: 07 March 2017; updated: 18 May 2018 The Acknowledgements section in this Article is incomplete. “We thank Seungkyu Ha, Yera Ye. Ussembayev, Richard Janissen, and Hubertus J. E. Beaumont for discussions, Richard M. Berry and Ren Lim for providing the strains, and Theo van Laar for the remaining help with the bacteria.
Role of xenobiotics in the induction and progression of fatty liver disease
Authors: Klaunig James E. , Li Xilin , Wang Zemin
Published: May 2018

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a major cause of chronic liver pathology in humans. Fatty liver disease involves the accumulation of hepatocellular fat in hepatocytes that can progress to hepatitis. Steatohepatitis is categorized into alcoholic (ASH) or non-alcoholic (NASH) steatohepatitis based on the etiology of the insult. Both pathologies involve an initial steatosis followed by a progressive inflammation of the liver and eventual hepatic fibrosis (steatohepatitis) and cirrhosis. The involvement of pharmaceuticals and other chemicals in the initiation and progression of fatty liver disease has received increased study. This review will examine not only how xenobiotics initiate hepatic steatosis and steatohepatitis but also how the presence of fatty liver may modify the metabolism and pathologic effects of xenobiotics. The feeding of a high fat diet results in changes in the expression of nuclear receptors that are involved in adaptive and adverse liver effects following xenobiotic exposure. High fat diets also modulate cellular and molecular pathways involved in inflammation, metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation and cell growth. Understanding the role of hepatic steatosis and steatohepatitis on the sequelae of toxic and pathologic changes seen following xenobiotic exposure has importance in defining proper and meaningful human risk characterization of the drugs and other chemical agents.
Fabrication of PEGylated Fe@Bi2S3 nanocomposites for dual-mode imaging and synergistic thermoradiotherapy
Authors: Li Erdong , Cheng Xiaju , Deng Yaoyao , Zhu Jing , Xu Xiaoding , Saw Phei Er , Gu Hongwei , Ge Cuicui , Pan Yue
Published: May 2018

Multifunctional magnetic nanocomposites are fabricated for synergistic thermoradiotherapy and simultaneously MRI/CT dual-mode imaging.
Straightforward synthesis of rubidium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide and complexes of the alkali metal bis(trimethylsilyl)amides with weakly coordinating 2,2,5,5-tetramethyltetrahydrofuran
Authors: Krieck Sven , Schüler Philipp , Görls Helmar , Westerhausen Matthias
Published: May 2018

2,2,5,5-Tetramethyl-THF (thf*) is a very bulky ether with a rather poor binding tendency due to weak basicity and steric hindrance. In the solid state, thf* complexes are observed whereas in solution these complexes dissociate.
Difuryl(supermesityl)borane: a versatile building block for extended π-conjugated materials
Authors: Riensch Nicolas A. , Fritze Lars , Schindler Tobias , Kremer Marius , Helten Holger
Published: May 2018

B-Doping of oligo(hetarene)s led to very robust, air-stable π-conjugated materials that are strong electron-acceptors and blue light emitters.
Micromotors for environmental applications: a review
Authors: Jurado-Sánchez Beatriz , Wang Joseph
Published: May 2018

Micromotors and the environment: illustrating the efficient operation of carbon-based micromotors for water purification.
Kinetic, metabolic and macromolecular response of bacteria to chronic nanoparticle exposure in continuous culture
Authors: Faghihzadeh F. , Anaya N. M. , Astudillo-Castro C. , Oyanedel-Craver V.
Published: May 2018

Effect of specific growth rates on metabolic and macromolecular response of bacteria to chronic antimicrobial nanoparticle exposure are studied.
Effects of an iron oxide–zeolite additive on process performance of anaerobic digestion of swine waste at mesophilic, ambient and psychrophilic temperatures
Authors: Lu Xiaofei , Wang Haidong , Ma Fang , Li Ang , Zhao Guang
Published: May 2018

The improved process performance of AD of swine waste at mesophilic, ambient and psychrophilic temperatures by an iron oxide–zeolite additive.
Lipolysis of domestic wastewater in anaerobic reactors operating at low temperatures
Authors: Petropoulos Evangelos , Dolfing Jan , Yu Yongjie , Wade Matthew J. , Bowen Emma J. , Davenport Russell J. , Curtis Thomas P.
Published: May 2018

Poor breakdown of lipids is a major barrier to the anaerobic treatment of domestic wastewater at low temperatures.
Rapid and reversible hydrazone bioconjugation in cells without the use of extraneous catalysts
Authors: Nisal Rahul , P. Jose Gregor , Shanbhag Chitra , Kalia Jeet
Published: May 2018

Rapid, catalyst-free and reversible bioconjugation in mammalian cells.
Driving π-plane to π-bowl through lateral coordination at room temperature
Authors: Geng Ruili , Hou Xueqing , Sun Yantao , Yan Chaoxian , Wu Yuewei , Zhang Hao-Li , Shao Xiangfeng
Published: May 2018

Coordination along the lateral direction makes the π-plane transform into a π-bowl, associated with significant modulation of the photophysical properties.
Rapid quantitation of multiple ions released from HeLa cells during emodin induced apoptosis by low-cost capillary electrophoresis with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wei Xuan , Wang Yuanhang , Ren Bo , Zhao Litao , Wang Zhaoyan , Pu Qiaosheng
Published: May 2018

Change in cation concentration, including that of potassium and sodium, is characteristic of apoptosis, therefore it is significant to detect cation concentration changes.
Removal of tetracycline by aerobic granular sludge and its bacterial community dynamics in SBR
Authors: Wang Xiaochun , Chen Zhonglin , Kang Jing , Zhao Xia , Shen Jimin
Published: May 2018

A lab-scale aerobic granular sludge sequencing batch reactor was introduced to explore the performance, formation and microbial succession of granular sludge for effectively removing tetracycline.
A smart multi-functional coating based on anti-pathogen micelles tethered with copper nanoparticlesviaa biosynthesis method usingl-vitamin C
Authors: Li Yan , Pi Qing-meng , You Hui-hui , Li Jin-quan , Wang Peng-cheng , Yang Xu , Wu Yang
Published: May 2018

A multi-functional anti-pathogen coating with “release-killing”, “contact-killing” and “anti-adhesion” properties was prepared from biocompatible polymer encapsulated chlorine dioxide (ClO2) which protected the active ingredient from the outside environment.
Examining the effect of hydroxyl groups on the thermal properties of polybenzoxazines: using molecular design and Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Zhang Kan , Han Lu , Nie Yijing , Szigeti Matthew Louis , Ishida Hatsuo
Published: May 2018

This article is the first report on understanding the structure-property relationship between molecular interactions and thermal properties of polybenzoxazines by Monte Carlo simulations.
The industrial feasibility of low temperature DeNOx in the presence of SOx: a project case in a medium coking plant
Authors: Li Changming , Yu Jian , He Yi , Yu Chao , Li Ping , Wang Chao , Huang Fulin , Gao Shiqiu
Published: May 2018

A DeNOx project case was built to explore the industrial feasibility of low temperature DeNOx in the presence of SOx.
Free-standing polydopamine films generated in the presence of different metallic ions: the comparison of reaction process and film properties
Authors: Han Xuwen , Tang Feng , Jin Zhaoxia
Published: May 2018

Different stratification processes lead to different morphologies of films generated with various cations.
The morphology and surface charge-dependent cellular uptake efficiency of upconversion nanostructures revealed by single-particle optical microscopy
Authors: Zhang Di , Wei Lin , Zhong Meile , Xiao Lehui , Li Hung-Wing , Wang Jianfang
Published: May 2018

The cellular uptake efficiency of nanostructures has been demonstrated to be highly dependent on the surface charge, size and shape although the cellular internalization process is still far from being well-understood.
Nano-film coated cathode functional layers towards high performance solid oxide fuel cells
Authors: Choi Mingi , Lee Jongseo , Lee Wonyoung
Published: May 2018

Nano-structured composite electrodes, from a carefully conducted infiltration process, are one of the most promising electrode structures for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT-SOFCs), due to their ability to promote the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and enlarge triple phase boundaries (TPBs).
Surface termination effects on the oxygen reduction reaction rate at fuel cell cathodes
Authors: Mastrikov Yuri A. , Merkle Rotraut , Kotomin Eugene A. , Kuklja Maija M. , Maier Joachim
Published: May 2018

The surface polarity of (La,Sr)O and MnO2 (001) terminations drastically affects defect and adsorbate concentrations, resulting in strongly different oxygen exchange rates.
A highly conductive and robust anion conductor obtainedviasynergistic manipulation in intra- and inter-laminate of layered double hydroxide nanosheets
Authors: He Xueyi , Cao Li , He Guangwei , Zhao Anqi , Mao Xunli , Huang Tong , Li Yan , Wu Hong , Sun Jie , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: May 2018

Synergistic manipulation in intra- and inter-laminate of layered double hydroxide results in a highly conductive and robust anion conductor.
Controllable synthesis of flower-like MoSe2 3D microspheres for highly efficient visible-light photocatalytic degradation of nitro-aromatic explosives
Authors: Huang Jingwen , Jin Bo , Liu Huiqiang , Li Xiaojuan , Zhang Qingchun , Chu Shijin , Peng Rufang , Chu Sheng
Published: May 2018

The nitro-aromatic explosives of NB, PNP and 2,4-DNP (40 mg L−1) could be completely degraded by MoSe2 3D microspheres for 3.5 h, 1.5 h and 2.5 h, under visible light irradiation.
Hydrophobic W18O49 mesocrystal on hydrophilic PTFE membrane as an efficient solar steam generation device under one sun
Authors: Chang Yuhong , Wang Zhenguang , Shi Yu-e , Ma Xicheng , Ma Long , Zhang Yuqiang , Zhan Jinhua
Published: May 2018

W18O49@PDMS mesocrystal membrane with the hydrophobic top and the hydrophilic bottom possesses the properties of self-floating and water transportation simultaneously.
Metal@I2–II–IV–VI4 core–shell nanocrystals: controlled synthesis by aqueous cation exchange for efficient photoelectrochemical hydrogen generation
Authors: Cheng Xiaoyan , Liu Jia , Feng Jingwen , Zhang Erhuan , Wang Hongzhi , Liu Xiangyu , Liu Jiajia , Rong Hongpan , Xu Meng , Zhang Jiatao
Published: May 2018

A new tactic for integrating multinary alloyed semiconductors and plasmonic metals into hybrid nanocrystals is developed based on aqueous cation exchange.
Light-induced degradation of fullerenes in organic solar cells: a case study on TQ1:PC71BM
Authors: Wang Yuming , Jafari Mohammad Javad , Wang Nana , Qian Deping , Zhang Fengling , Ederth Thomas , Moons Ellen , Wang Jianpu , Inganäs Olle , Huang Wei , Gao Feng
Published: May 2018

The stability of organic solar cells (OSCs) is critical for practical applications of this emerging technology.
A rhodamine-based fast and selective fluorescent probe for monitoring exogenous and endogenous nitric oxide in live cells
Authors: Wang Qing , Jiao Xiaojie , Liu Chang , He Song , Zhao Liancheng , Zeng Xianshun
Published: May 2018

A sensitive and selective fluorescent probe for fast detection of nitric oxide was synthesized by grafting a NO-trappero-phenylenediamine onto a rhodamine fluorophore.
Regenerable smart antibacterial surfaces: full removal of killed bacteria via a sequential degradable layer
Authors: Qu Yangcui , Wei Ting , Zhao Jian , Jiang Shuaibing , Yang Peng , Yu Qian , Chen Hong
Published: May 2018

An antibiotic-free and regenerable antibacterial hybrid film with both photothermal bactericidal activity and bacteria-releasing properties is fabricated on diverse substrates.
A high fluorescence rate is key for stable blue organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Liu Zhusen , Cao Fangyi , Tsuboi Taiju , Yue Yan , Deng Chao , Ni Xufeng , Sun Weilin , Zhang Qisheng
Published: May 2018

Singlet–singlet exciton annihilation (SSA) is found to be a critical factor for the decomposition of blue thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).
Tunable electronic and optical properties of InSe/InTe van der Waals heterostructures toward optoelectronic applications
Authors: Shang Jimin , Pan Longfei , Wang Xiaoting , Li Jingbo , Deng Hui-Xiong , Wei Zhongming
Published: May 2018

2D InSe/InTe van der Waals heterostructures with a direct band structure and typical type-II band alignment, effectively tuned by applying normal strain, are systematically discussed for future optoelectronic devices.
Photodetectors with ultra-high detectivity based on stabilized all-inorganic perovskite CsPb0.922Sn0.078I3 nanobelts
Authors: Du Zhentao , Fu Dingfa , Yang Tao , Fang Zhi , Liu Wenna , Gao Fengmei , Wang Lin , Yang Zuobao , Teng Jie , Zhang Hui , Yang Weiyou
Published: May 2018

We report the exploration of all-inorganic perovskite photodetectors based on stabilized CsPb0.922Sn0.078I3 nanobelts, which exhibit overall excellent performance with an ultrahigh detectivity up to 6.43 × 1013 Jones.
Lighting up Eu3+luminescence through remote sensitization in silica nanoarchitectures
Authors: Artizzu Flavia , Loche Danilo , Mara Dimitrije , Malfatti Luca , Serpe Angela , Van Deun Rik , Casula Maria Francesca
Published: May 2018

Remote sensitization in hybrid organic–inorganic Eu3+-doped layered silica nanoarchitectures allows for unusually high emission quantum yield through efficient energy transfer and the removal of ultra-fast quenching effects of inner-shell emitters.
Modelling and estimation of gear train backlash present in wind turbine driven DFIG system
Authors: Prajapat Ganesh P. , Bhui Pratyasa , Senroy Nilanjan , Kar Indra N.
Published: May 2018

The backlash, which is always present in the gears of drive‐trains to enable smooth operation, may increase with time due to the wear and tear during mechanical power transmission. Accurate knowledge of the amount of backlash non‐linearity is required in such systems for monitoring control applications as well as developing maintenance strategies. In this study, the modelling and online estimation of the backlash existing in the gear train of wind turbine driven doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) systems is presented. The estimation has been performed using the unscented Kalman filter considering the backlash as a parameter and augmenting it as a state into the dynamics. Local measurements of the DFIG system have been used to estimate the backlash. The performance and efficacy of the method have been investigated in different scenarios viz. system parameters, noise levels of the measurements and operating points of the DFIG system. The estimation has also been performed in an environment of the time‐varying wind, modelled by Van der Hoven's spectral model. The estimation has been enabled by the bad‐data detection and examined in the presence of unknown mechanical parameters of the shaft.
Assessment of cycling costs of combined cycle units for frequency regulation
Authors: Shen Cheng‐Chieh , Lin Chien‐Hung , Chang‐Chien Le‐Ren , Wu Chin‐Chung , Lu Chan‐Nan
Published: May 2018

Operation flexibility is a prerequisite to ensure the success of a power market operation. Due to the variable generation mix, generation units that are flexible to meet the challenge of ramping and provide operation reserve are important in today's system operations. Generators participating in frequency regulation and other ancillary services might lose energy market revenue due to reserved margins, thus regulation performance should be evaluated and paid for. The actual value of operation flexibility is dependent on the system characteristics and the market mechanism. Using the information available in energy management system and combined cycle power plants, this study proposes a simple and practical method to estimate the variant fuel cost increase of combined cycle units to provide frequency regulation service in an island power system. Based on actual operation data, analysis results testify the fact that the efficiency of the combined cycle units is reduced at lower loads and the units are subjected to different fuel cost increases at distinct operation configurations. The proposed method is justifiable and applicable for assessing variant costs incurred in providing energy system flexibility.
Unified theory on preservation of conditionally non‐blocking switches by the two‐stage interconnection network
Authors: Li Shuo‐Yen Robert
Published: May 2018

A central focus of switching theory is on non‐blocking properties of switches and their scalability. Several types of conditionally non‐blocking switches have been known to be preserved by the two‐stage interconnection network. The preservation of each type is by a separate theory. This study presents a coherent theory that yields an infinite family of preserved types, incorporating all known ones. Recursive two‐stage interconnection networks, including all banyan‐type networks, construct conditionally non‐blocking switches that are most compact in connecting every input to every output and rich in applications.
The role of molecular gas in the nuclear regions of IRAS 00183-7111
Authors: Ruffa I. , Vignali C. , Mignano A. , Paladino R. , Iwasawa K.
Published: May 2018

Aims. We present a multi-frequency study of the ultraluminous infrared galaxy (ULIRG) IRAS 00183-7111 (z = 0.327), selected from the Spoon diagnostic diagram as a highly obscured active galactic nucleus (AGN) candidate. ALMA millimetre and X-ray observations are used; the main aim is to verify at what level the molecular gas, traced by the CO, may be responsible for the obscuration observed at X-ray energies. Theory and observations both suggest that galaxy-scale absorption may play a role in the AGN obscuration at intermediate (i.e. Compton-thin) column densities.

Methods. We calibrated and analysed ALMA archival Cycle 0 data in two bands (Bands 3 and 6). The X-ray properties of IRAS 00183-7111 were studied by reducing and analysing separately archival Chandra and XMM-Newton data; recently acquired NuSTAR spectra were first examined individually and then added to the Chandra and XMM spectra for the broad-band (0.5 − 24 keV, observed frame) analysis.

Results. We derived a molecular gas column density of (8.0 ± 0.9) × 1021 cm−2 from the ALMA CO(1−0) detection, while the best-fit column density of cold gas obtained from X-ray spectral fitting is 6.8−1.5+2.1×1022 cm−. The two quantities suggest that the molecular gas may contribute only a fraction of the AGN obscuration; however, the link between them is not straightforward. The nuclear regions of IRAS 00183-7111 are likely stratified into different layers of matter: one inner and highly ionized by the strong radiation field of the AGN (as inferred from the high-ionization iron line found in the X-ray spectra), and one outer and colder, extending more than 5 kpc from the nucleus (as traced by the molecular gas observed with ALMA). The molecular gas regions also give rise to a vigorous starburst with SFR ~260 ± 28 M⊙ yr−1. The complexity of this nuclear environment makes it difficult to identify the origin of the AGN obscuration given the quality of the data currently available. Higher resolution observations in the millimetre regime are needed to deeply investigate this issue.
A multi-physics analysis for the actuation of the SSS in opal reactor
Authors: Ferraro Diego , Alberto Patricio , Villarino Eduardo , Doval Alicia
Published: May 2018

OPAL is a 20 MWth multi-purpose open-pool type Research Reactor located at Lucas Heights, Australia. It was designed, built and commissioned by INVAP between 2000 and 2006 and it has been operated by the Australia Nuclear Science and Technology Organization (ANSTO) showing a very good overall performance. On November 2016, OPAL reached 10 years of continuous operation, becoming one of the most reliable and available in its kind worldwide, with an unbeaten record of being fully operational 307 days a year. One of the enhanced safety features present in this state-of-art reactor is the availability of an independent, diverse and redundant Second Shutdown System (SSS), which consists in the drainage of the heavy water reflector contained in the Reflector Vessel. As far as high quality experimental data is available from reactor commissioning and operation stages and even from early component design validation stages, several models both regarding neutronic and thermo-hydraulic approaches have been developed during recent years using advanced calculations tools and the novel capabilities to couple them. These advanced models were developed in order to assess the capability of such codes to simulate and predict complex behaviours and develop highly detail analysis. In this framework, INVAP developed a three-dimensional CFD model that represents the detailed hydraulic behaviour of the Second Shutdown System for an actuation scenario, where the heavy water drainage 3D temporal profiles inside the Reflector Vessel can be obtained. This model was validated, comparing the computational results with experimental measurements performed in a real-size physical model built by INVAP during early OPAL design engineering stages. Furthermore, detailed 3D Serpent Monte Carlo models are also available, which have been already validated with experimental data from reactor commissioning and operating cycles. In the present work the neutronic and thermohydraulic models, available for OPAL reactor, are coupled by means of a shared unstructured mesh geometry definition of relevant zones inside the Reflector Vessel. Several scenarios, both regarding coupled and uncoupled neutronic & thermohydraulic behavior, are presented and analyzed, showing the capabilities to develop and manage advanced modelling that allows to predict multi-physics variables observed when an in-depth performance analysis of a Research Reactor like OPAL is carried out.
High Fidelity Modeling Method of High Performance Electromechanical Actuator
Authors: Li Peng , Gao Zhigang , Zhou Jun , Zhang Jiaolong
Published: May 2018

The accuracy of high performance electromechanical actuator(EMA) system model has important influence on the simulation accuracy of aircraft guidance and control loop. Aiming at solving the deficiency in the reflection of EMA characteristics using traditional second-order model, a high-fidelity global coupling modular structure modeling method is proposed. Based on the analysis of the modeling process, high-fidelity modeling research is conducted on "BLDCM/ball screw/fork" type EMA systems. The structure of high fidelity model is investigated, and modeling methods of nonlinear factors such as servo motor, transmission ratio, mechanical inertia and transmission flexibility in the system are examined in detail. Simulation results based on simulink platform show that the high fidelity model established by this method is highly consistent with the actual system performance of the input-output characteristics and the internal state characteristics, ensuring the authenticity of the system model, which plays an important effect on improving the simulation accuracy of the aircraft guidance and control loop.
Design of Unambiguous Combined Tracking Loop for GNSS Complex Subcarrier Signal
Authors: Luo Xianzhi , Zhao Hongwei , Yan Hao
Published: May 2018

Complex subcarrier modulation signal, is a kind of BOC signal which is used complex exponential function as subcarrier, has been widely applied in GNSS(Global Navigation satellite system). The existence of multiple correlation peaks of the autocorrelation function of the complex subcarrier signal, will cause the acquisition error and tracking to the side peak when the signal is synchronized. To solve this problem, an unambiguous combined tracking loop for complex subcarrier signals is proposed. In this loop architecture, the main loop completes the coarse synchronization with BPSK-like algorithm, and the assisted loop realizes the accurate tracking together main loop. In this paper, the dual estimate tracking algorithm and the side-peak cancellation scheme are employed respectively in the assisted loop. The performance of tracking accuracy and anti-multipath capability of the proposed architecture is analyzed, and the practicability is verified by using the actual collected data. Simulation and experimental results show that the tracking structure proposed in this paper is practical and has good performance of anti-noise and anti-multipath.
Les gestes dans l’apprentissage en danse contemporaine, entre mise en mots et mise en corps
Authors: Benedetti Davia
Published: May 2018

L’enseignement de la danse met en jeu des gestes à enseigner, des gestes pédagogiques, des gestes reproduits par les enseignés et des gestes propres à chacun. Cet article fait suite à une enquête anthropologique menée, en Corse, de 2007 à 2016, par observation participante et entretiens semi-dirigés, et complétée par des entretiens d’explicitation auprès d’élèves danseurs. Il analyse dans quelle mesure les processus de cognition tant rationnels qu’émotionnels sont liés à la motricité dans l’apprentissage en danse contemporaine. La verbalisation de connaissances théoriques et la description métaphorique des gestes à enseigner ont leur place dans la transmission de cette danse. Son apprentissage, cependant, réside essentiellement en l’acquisition d’une connaissance procédurale, incorporée par expérience directe et observation vicariante. Il repose sur une éducation sensorimotrice avec réciprocité d’écoute kinesthésique et sensorielle entre les danseurs. Il consiste à apprendre non pas à reproduire les gestes d’une technique de danse mais à signifier et interpréter un sens chorégraphique, de manière personnalisée et au moyen des gestes de cette technique. C’est une démarche d’écologisation corporelle, selon un processus neurocognitif prenant en compte les sensations, la sensibilité proprioceptive, les émotions et affects, et la conscience kinesthésique et empathique de ses partenaires.
Verhoben? – Fall für Vier
Authors: Redlich Maximilian , Schnegelsberg Thomas , Hamel Michael , Heinrich Marion
Published: May 2018

Die 33-jährige Kerstin Ewald arbeitet als Fahrzeugschlosserin und ist meist schwerer körperlicher Arbeit ausgesetzt. Nach einem Verhebetrauma bei der Arbeit litt sie wochenlang unter starken Rückenschmerzen. Effektive Hilfe bekommt sie schließlich im Rahmen eines vierwöchigen Rückenintensivprogramms von einem Arzt, einem Physio-, einem Sporttherapeuten und einer Psychologin.
Sensorimotor Exercises and Enhanced Trunk Function: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mueller Steffen , Engel Tilman , Mueller Juliane , Stoll Josefine , Baur Heiner , Mayer Frank
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a 6-week sensorimotor or resistance training on maximum trunk strength and response to sudden, high-intensity loading in athletes.

Forty-three healthy, well-trained participants were randomized into sensorimotor (SMT; n=11), resistance training (RT; n=16) and control groups (CG; n=16). Treatment groups received either sensorimotor training (SMT) or resistance training (RT) for 6 weeks, 3 times a week. At baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention, participants' maximum isokinetic strength in trunk rotation and extension was tested (concentric/eccentric 30°/s). In addition, sudden, high-intensity trunk loading was assessed for eccentric extension and rotation, with additional perturbation. Peak torque [Nm] was calculated as the outcome.

Interventions showed no significant difference for maximum strength in concentric and eccentric testing (p>0.05). For perturbation compensation, higher peak torque response following SMT (Extension: +24 Nm 95%CI±19 Nm; Rotation: +19 Nm 95%CI±13 Nm) and RT (Extension: +35 Nm 95%CI±16 Nm; Rotation: +5 Nm 95%CI±4 Nm) compared to CG (Extension: -4 Nm 95%CI±16 Nm; Rotation: -2 Nm 95%CI±4 Nm) was present (p<0.05).

This study showed that isokinetic strength gains were small, but that significant improvements in high-intensity trunk loading response could be shown for both interventions. Therefore, depending on the individual's preference, therapists have two treatment options to enhance trunk function for back pain prevention.
Implementierung eines Roboterprogramms in der Viszeralchirurgie – Erfahrungen eines deutschen Zentrums
Authors: Brunner Maximilian , Matzel Klaus , Aladashvili Archil , Krautz Christian , Grützmann Robert , Croner Roland
Published: May 2018

Hintergrund Roboterassistierte Operationen nehmen in der Viszeralchirurgie eine zunehmende Bedeutung ein. Wir beschreiben die Implementierung eines Roboterprogramms an einem deutschen Zentrum für Viszeralchirurgie mit dem Fokus auf Machbarkeit, Sicherheit, Patientenauswahl, Lernkurve, finanzielle Aspekte und eigene Erfahrungen aus den ersten 5 Jahren Roboterchirurgie.

Patienten und Methoden Daten über Patientendemografien, intra- und postoperative Parameter, onkologische Ergebnisse und Kosten aller roboterassistierten viszeralchirurgischen Operationen, die von August 2012 bis Dezember 2016 an unserer Klinik durchgeführt wurden, wurden retrospektiv analysiert. Mögliche Faktoren für eine präoperative Patientenselektion, welche die intra- oder postoperativen Ergebnisse beeinflussen könnten, wurden ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse Im genannten Zeitraum wurden insgesamt 81 roboterassistierte Operationen durchgeführt (vor allem kolorektale Resektionen [n = 35], ventrale Netzrektopexien [n = 23] und Leberresektionen [n = 18]). Die Konversionsrate lag bei 7%. Bei allen onkologischen Patienten konnte eine R0-Resektion erreicht werden. Die postoperative Verweildauer betrug 8,8 Tage, die Morbidität 24% mit einem Anteil von Majorkomplikationen (Clavien-Dindo > II) von 7% sowie die Mortalität 0%. Ein BMI von über 33,5 kg/m2 war mit einer signifikant höheren Morbidität (p = 0,024) und Majorkomplikationsrate (p = 0,046) sowie einer längeren Hospitalisierung (p = 0,009) assoziiert. Patienten mit einem Alter von über 65 Jahren wiesen eine signifikant höhere Morbidität (p = 0,025) auf. Mit zunehmender Anzahl an Operationen sank die Operationszeit (p = 0,001). Die durchschnittlichen Kosten einer roboterassistierten Operation einschließlich des Krankenhausaufenthalts betrugen 15 221 €. Die Kosten bei roboterasisstierten Sigmaresektionen bzw. Leberresektionen waren im Vergleich zum offenen Vorgehen um 106,8 bzw. 62,8% und im Vergleich zum laparoskopischen Vorgehen um 93,5 bzw. 66,5% höher.

Schlussfolgerung Die Durchführung roboterassistierter kolorektaler Resektionen, ventraler Netzrektopexien und Leberresektionen ist sicher machbar. Eine entscheidende Rolle bei der erfolgreichen und sicheren Durchführung von roboterassistierten Operationen stellt insbesondere während der Implementierungsphase eine sorgfältige Patientenauswahl dar. Zudem müssen die unvermeidliche Lernkurve, die notwendige Spezialisierung des gesamten Teams sowie die im Vergleich zur offenen und laparoskopischen Chirurgie höheren Kosten beachtet werden.