bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Fe–Co crystal doped hierarchical porous carbon fibers for removal of organic pollutants
Authors: Zhu Zhigao , Ji Chenghan , Zhong Lingling , Liu Shuang , Cui Fuyi , Sun Hongliang , Wang Wei
Published: August 2017

Hierarchical structured FeCo2@APCFs catalyzed PMS, which exhibited ultrafast degradation of organic pollutants, good stability, recyclability, and high mineralization.
Themed issue on green materials and surfaces
Authors: Jiang Lei , Antonietti Markus , Fechler Nina
Published: August 2017

Guest editors Lei Jiang, Markus Antonietti and Nina Fechler introduce this Journal of Materials Chemistry A themed issue on green materials and surfaces.
Gold-stabilized carboxymethyl dextran nanoparticles for image-guided photodynamic therapy of cancer
Authors: Lee Minchang , Lee Hansang , Vijayakameswara Rao N. , Han Hwa Seung , Jeon Sangmin , Jeon Jueun , Lee Seokyung , Kwon Seunglee , Suh Yung Doug , Park Jae Hyung
Published: August 2017

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been extensively investigated to treat cancer since it induces cell death through the activation of photosensitizers by light.
Visible-light-controllable drug release from multilayer-coated microneedles
Authors: Zheng Zhiqiang , Ye Haixia , Wang Juan , Zhang Taoye , You Qingliang , Li Haohuan , He Rongxiang , Chen Yong , Zhang Weiying , Cao Yiping
Published: August 2017

A method for the generation of visible-light-controllable drug release on microneedles is developed by host–guest chemistry. In response to visible light irradiation, model drugs encapsulated on polyelectrolyte multilayers transfer into the skin following brief microneedle application.
Selective synthesis of LaF3 and NaLaF4 nanocrystals via lanthanide ion doping
Authors: Nie Li , Shen Yuxing , Zhang Xi , Wang Xiuwen , Liu Botong , Wang Yangbo , Pan Yue , Xie Xiaoji , Huang Ling , Huang Wei
Published: August 2017

Pure LaF3 and NaLaF4 nanocrystals can be selectively synthesized by doping with proper lanthanide ions at certain concentrations, which determines the reaction pathways.
A meta-analysis and review examining a possible role for oxidative stress and singlet oxygen in diverse diseases
Authors: Petrou Athinoula L. , Terzidaki Athina
Published: August 2017

From kinetic data (k, T) we calculated the thermodynamic parameters for various processes (nucleation, elongation, fibrillization, etc.) of proteinaceous diseases that are related to the β-amyloid protein (Alzheimer's), to tau protein (Alzheimer's, Pick's), to α-synuclein (Parkinson's), prion, amylin (type II diabetes), and to α-crystallin (cataract). Our calculations led to ΔG≠ values that vary in the range 92.8–127 kJ mol−1 at 310 K. A value of ∼10–30 kJ mol−1 is the activation energy for the diffusion of reactants, depending on the reaction and the medium. The energy needed for the excitation of O2 from the ground to the first excited state (1Δg, singlet oxygen) is equal to 92 kJ mol−1. So, the ΔG≠ is equal to the energy needed for the excitation of ground state oxygen to the singlet oxygen (1Δg first excited) state. The similarity of the ΔG≠ values is an indication that a common mechanism in the above disorders may be taking place. We attribute this common mechanism to the (same) role of the oxidative stress and specifically of singlet oxygen, (1Δg), to the above-mentioned processes: excitation of ground state oxygen to the singlet oxygen, 1Δg, state (92 kJ mol−1), and reaction of the empty π* orbital with high electron density regions of biomolecules (∼10–30 kJ mol−1 for their diffusion). The ΔG≠ for cases of heat-induced cell killing (cancer) lie also in the above range at 310 K. The present paper is a review and meta-analysis of literature data referring to neurodegenerative and other disorders.
Embryonic stem cell derived germ cells induce spermatogenesis after transplantation into the testes of an adult mouse azoospermia model
Authors: Makoolati Zohreh , Movahedin Mansoureh , Forouzandeh-Moghadam Mehdi , Naghdi Majid , Koruji Morteza
Published: August 2017

The present study aimed to: (i) identify the exogenous factors that allow in vitro differentiation of mouse spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) from embryonic stem cells (ESCs); (ii) evaluate the effects of Sertoli cells in SSC enrichment; and (iii) assess the success of transplantation using in vitro differentiated SSCs in a mouse busulfan-treated azoospermia model. A 1-day-old embryoid body (EB) received 5 ng/ml of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) for 4 days, 3 µM retinoic acid (RA) in a SIM mouse embryo-derived thioguanine and ouabain resistant (STO) co-culture system for 7 days, and was subsequently co-cultured for 2 days with Sertoli cells in the presence or absence of a leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and RA composition, and in the presence of these factors in simple culture medium. Higher viability, proliferation and germ cell gene expression were seen in the presence of the LIF, bFGF and RA composition, on top of Sertoli cells. Immunocytochemistry results showed higher CDH1 expression in this group. Sertoli co-culture had no effects on SSC proliferation. Eight weeks after transplantation, injected cells were observed at the base of the seminiferous tubules and in the recipient testes. The number of spermatogonia and the mass of the testes were higher in transplanted testes relative to the control group. It seems that transplantation of these cells can be useful in infertility treatment.
Effect of Vitamin D Deficiency on Voice
Authors: Hamdan Abdul-Latif , Ziade Georges , Sarieddine Doja , Tabri Dollen , Allaw Fatima , Btaiche Rachel , Azar Sami
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this article was to investigate the relationship between low level of vitamin D, phonatory symptoms, and acoustic findings.

Method

A total of 38 subjects presenting to the endocrinology clinic were enrolled in 2 groups: 19 with vitamin D deficiency who were not on treatment, and 19 with normal vitamin D level who were on treatment. Demographic data included age, gender, and history of smoking. All patients were asked about the presence or absence of dysphonia, degree of phonatory effort, and vocal fatigue. Acoustic analysis and perceptual evaluation using the grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, and strain scale were performed on all subjects.

Results

The mean age of the total group was 47.29 ± 13.52 years. The difference in the mean and frequency of phonatory effort, vocal fatigue, and dysphonia, and in the mean of the acoustic variables, perceptual parameters, and the score of the Voice Handicap Index-10 was not statistically significant between patients with low vitamin D levels compared with controls.

Conclusion

The results of this study revealed no significant difference in the prevalence of phonatory symptoms in patients with vitamin D deficiency compared with patients with no vitamin D deficiency. A larger study is needed to substantiate the difference in the prevalence of phonatory systems between the 2 groups.
A Systematic Review of Speech Assessments for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Recommendations for Best Practice
Authors: Broome Kate , McCabe Patricia , Docking Kimberley , Doble Maree
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review was to provide a summary and evaluation of speech assessments used with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). A subsequent narrative review was completed to ascertain the core components of an evidence-based pediatric speech assessment, which, together with the results of the systematic review, provide clinical and research guidelines for best practice.

Method

A systematic search of eight databases was used to find peer-reviewed research articles published between 1990 and 2014 assessing the speech of children with ASD. Eligible articles were categorized according to the assessment methods used and the speech characteristics described.

Results

The review identified 21 articles that met the inclusion criteria, search criteria, and confidence in ASD diagnosis. The speech of prelinguistic participants was assessed in seven articles. Speech assessments with verbal participants were completed in 15 articles with segmental and suprasegmental aspects of speech analyzed. Assessment methods included connected speech samples, single-word naming tasks, speech imitation tasks, and analysis of the production of words and sentences.

Conclusions

Clinical and research guidelines for speech assessment of children with ASD are outlined. Future comparisons will be facilitated by the use of consistent reporting methods in research focusing on children with ASD.
Speech-Language Pathologists' Use of Intelligibility Measures in Adults With Dysarthria
Authors: Gurevich Naomi , Scamihorn Sydney L.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) who work with adults with dysarthria were surveyed to investigate trends of clinical practice for assessing speech intelligibility.

Method

Two hundred ninety-six SLPs responded to an online survey October 22–November 30, 2015.

Results

Findings showed that 35% of SLPs lacked access to any standardized assessments of intelligibility, with 66% of these implicating cost as the main reason. Work settings played a role, as all SLPs working in Veterans Affairs hospitals and 97% of SLPs working in university or research clinics reported access to at least one formal assessment. Even with access to formal tools to measure intelligibility, most SLPs preferred less formal measures. It is surprising to note that many SLPs reported using physical examinations (e.g., of cranial nerves and oral mechanisms) to measure speech intelligibility.

Conclusions

Results indicate the need to increase SLP familiarity with, and access to, currently available standardized assessments, as well as to improve education regarding the fundamental need to rate speech to assess intelligibility. Clinicians may also benefit from new standardized methods to objectively assess intelligibility that are accessible, practical, and efficient.
Design unimodular sequence train with low central and recurrent autocorrelation sidelobes via FFT‐based cyclic algorithm
Authors: Zhao Dehua , Wei Yinsheng , Liu Yongtan
Published: August 2017

The design of unimodular sequence train with low central and recurrent autocorrelation sidelobes is considered. The design problem is formulated as a minimisation of the integrated energy in central and recurrent autocorrelations with user‐supplied weights and an iterative method is proposed for it. The proposed method is computationally efficient, as its main computation can be implemented using FFT. Numeric results are reported to validate the proposed method.
VCSEL‐based optical links in burst‐mode slow optical power ramp‐up and how to achieve ultra‐short wake‐up times
Authors: Morf T. , Seifried M. , Cevrero A. , Ozkaya I. , Menolfi C. , Kuchta D. , Kossel M. , Francese P. , Kull L. , Kropp J. , Toifl T.
Published: August 2017

Optical links in datacentres operate mainly in burst mode. The utilisation might be as low as 10%, i.e. most of the time the link is idle, but still consumes power. It would therefore be desirable to put these links into a low‐power sleep mode during idle signal by reducing the bias, and to operate the electronics and laser only when data is actually being transmitted. The laser is typically implemented with vertical cavity surface‐emitting lasers (VCSELs). VCSELs should not be biased below their threshold current as otherwise an extensive turn‐on delay will be incurred. A significant wake‐up time is still observed in VCSELs even if the bias is not reduced during idle and only logic zeros are transmitted. With reduced bias, an unacceptable wake‐up time is observed. The authors present measured data and propose a high‐amplitude wake‐up pulse at the beginning of the data burst, to significantly speed up the wake‐up time. Measurements show the effectiveness of this pulse.
Salient object detection based on global multi‐scale superpixel contrast
Authors: Yang Jinfu , Wang Ying , Wang Guanghui , Li Mingai
Published: August 2017

Salient object detection, as a necessary step of many computer vision applications, has attracted extensive attention in recent years. A novel salient object detection method is proposed based on multi‐superpixel‐scale contrast. Saliency value of each superpixel is measured with a global score, which is computed using the region's colour contrast and the spatial distances to all other regions in the image. High‐level information is also incorporated to improve the performance, and the saliency maps are fused across multiple levels to yield a reliable final result using the modified multi‐layer cellular automata. The proposed algorithm is evaluated and compared with five state‐of‐the‐art approaches on three publicly standard datasets. Both quantitative and qualitative experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed method.
Moving object detection zone using a block‐based background model
Authors: Elharrouss Omar , Abbad Abdelghafour , Moujahid Driss , Tairi Hamid
Published: August 2017

Background modelling is a critical case for background‐subtraction‐based approaches and also for a wide range of applications. The background generation becomes difficult when the scene is complex or an object stays for a long time in the scene. Here, the authors propose a block‐based background initialisation, using the sum of absolute difference (SAD), and modelling, using a block‐based entropy evaluation, with a low computational cost which making them feasible for embedded platform. In general, many background‐subtraction approaches are sensitive to sudden illumination change in the scene and cannot update the background image in scenes. The proposed background modelling approach analyses the illumination change problem. The moving object detection mask is developed using a threshold selected by computing the mean of the SAD between the blocks background and the blocks of the current frame. From the qualitative and quantitative results obtained by the authors approach compared with some existing methods, the authors approach is effective for background generation and moving objects detection.
Enhancing fault ride‐through capability of DFIG with modified SMES‐FCL and RSC control
Authors: Xiao Xian‐Yong , Yang Ruo‐Huan , Chen Xiao‐Yuan , Zheng Zi‐Xuan , Li Chang‐Song
Published: August 2017

For grid‐connected doubly fed induction generators (DFIGs), fault ride‐through (FRT) capability and transient stability are vital problems that urgently need to be addressed. To overcome these problems, a novel superconducting magnetic energy storage‐fault current limiter (SMES‐FCL)‐based protection scheme by modified control of superconducting coil (SC) and rotor‐side converter (RSC) is investigated here. A rotor‐side mathematical model is used to estimate and optimise the SC inductance parameter. Two modified control strategies of SMES‐FCL cooperative operation and positive‐sequence d –q current modification (PCM) are proposed to control the SC and RSC for enhancing the transient stability of the overall DFIG system. In addition to maintaining good FRT performance from the SMES‐FCL on stabilising the electromagnetic torque, DC‐link voltage, active and reactive power, and stator and rotor current during grid fault, the PCM control is also demonstrated in the simulations to suppress the transient oscillations and thus to shorten the recovery time after grid fault. Meanwhile, compared with conventional SMES‐FCL scheme, the requirement of SC current capacity is much lowered for smoothing the DFIG output power under a varying wind speed condition and for enhancing the FRT performance under a grid fault condition.
Lightning flash algorithm for solving non‐convex combined emission economic dispatch with generator constraints
Authors: Kheshti Mostafa , Kang Xiaoning , Li Jiangtao , Regulski Pawel , Terzija Vladimir
Published: August 2017

Due to the importance of global warming and environmental impacts that accumulated from emission of gaseous pollutants of fossil‐fuelled power plants, the modern combined emission economic dispatch (CEED) is applied. This study proposes a new evolutionary lightning flash algorithm to solve dual‐objective CEED problem considering different scenarios with wind power penetration, multiple fuel options and operation constraints on the generators. The lightning flash algorithm is formulated based on the movements of the cloud to ground lightning strikes in a thunderstorm. This method is tested on 11 benchmark functions and then it is applied on six different practical case study systems for solving non‐convex CEED. The results of LFA on benchmark functions and the case study systems are compared with other methods and confirm the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed method with higher quality solution, less emission, less costs and better convergence against other methods for solving non‐convex practical economic dispatch, CEED and dynamic dispatch problems.
Reliable low‐cost surrogate modeling and design optimisation of antennas using implicit space mapping with substrate segmentation
Authors: Koziel Slawomir , Bekasiewicz Adrian
Published: August 2017

In this work, a reliable methodology for fast simulation‐driven design optimisation of antenna structures is proposed. The authors’ approach exploits implicit space mapping (ISM) technology. To adopt it for handling antenna structures, they introduce substrate segmentation with separate dielectric permittivity value assigned for each segment as ISM preassigned parameters. At the same time, the coarse model for space mapping is established by reducing discretisation level of the EM analysis of the antenna structure at hand. Further, the proposed approach is generalised to permit execution of ISM in case of dielectric resonator antennas (DRAs), which is realised by segmentation of the DR and appropriate assignment of permittivity values. The discussed methodology is demonstrated through optimisation of a bandwidth‐enhanced patch antenna and a triangular DRA. Comparison with state‐of‐the‐art surrogate‐assisted design methods, here, frequency and output space mapping, as well as conventional optimisation using pattern search, is also provided.
Experimental evaluation of the impact of mobility management protocols on HTTP adaptive streaming
Authors: Sani Yusuf , Isah Musab , Edwards Christopher , Mauthe Andreas
Published: August 2017

Video content is increasingly being consumed on the move using mobile devices such as smart phones and tablets. In order to deal with the challenges of heterogeneity of network access technologies and fluctuating resources, which are inherent features of mobile communication, HTTP adaptive streaming (HAS) is becoming the default technology for online video streaming. However, little research has been carried out to better understand the impact of handover schemes of the various mobility management protocols on the video quality of HAS. In this study, the authors present a comprehensive experimental measurement of the impact of handover on three representative HAS players. First, they implement three existing mobility management protocols, MIPv6, LISP‐MN and PMIPv6, on a network testbed. Using the fluid flow mobility model, the impact of frequent handover on the average video quality, the bandwidth utilisation and stability of the players was investigated. Their results show a degradation of all the observed parameters in all the reviewed players.
Hybrid 5G optical‐wireless SDN‐based networks, challenges and open issues
Authors: Sarigiannidis Panagiotis , Lagkas Thomas , Bibi Stamatia , Ampatzoglou Apostolos , Bellavista Paolo
Published: August 2017

The fifth‐generation (5G) mobile networks are expected to bring higher capacity, higher density of mobile devices, lower battery consumption and improved coverage. 5G entails the convergence of wireless and wired communications in a unified and efficient architecture. Mobile nodes, as defined in fourth‐generation era, are transformed in heterogeneous networks to make the front‐haul wireless domains flexible and intelligent. This work highlights a set of critical challenges in advancing 5G networks, fuelled by the utilisation of the network function virtualisation, the software defined radio and the software defined networks techniques. Furthermore, a novel conceptual model is presented in terms of control and management planes, where the inner architectural components are introduced in detail.
High‐impedance fault detection in electrical power distribution systems using moving sum approach
Authors: Sarwagya Kumari , De Sourav , Nayak Paresh Kumar
Published: August 2017

High‐impedance faults (HIFs) in electrical power distribution systems produce a very random, non‐linear and low‐magnitude fault current. The conventional overcurrent (OC) relaying‐based distribution system protection schemes find difficulty in detecting such low‐current HIFs. In this study, a simple two criteria‐based protection scheme is proposed for detection and isolation of HIFs in multi‐feeder radial distribution systems. It utilises one‐cycle sum of superimposed components of residual voltage for HIF detection and the maximum value of one‐cycle sum of superimposed components of negative‐sequence current for faulted feeder identification. The performance of the proposed scheme is evaluated for a wide variety of possible test cases by generating data through power systems computer‐aided design/electro‐magnetic transient design and control software. Results clearly show that the proposed scheme can assist conventional OC relay for detection and isolation of HIFs in distribution systems with any grounding connections in a more reliable and faster way.
Laser‐induced stainless steel mesh for high effective water/oil separation
Authors: Chen Tianchi , Liu Hongtao , Yang Haifeng , Yan Wei , Zhu Wei , Liu Hao , Guo Kaijin
Published: August 2017

The hierarchical micro/nano structures are successfully obtained on the stainless steel mesh via a simple laser direct writing technology. The as‐prepared mesh reveals excellent superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic properties or superhydrophobic/superoleophilic properties after 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H‐perfluorodecyltriisopropoxysilane modification. According to the oil density, the superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic mesh allows water to permeate and repels the light oil. Its oil/water separation efficiency is as high as 98.5% for the light oil. The superhydrophobic/superoleophilic mesh can be easily wetted by heavy oils while the water will be repelled, which the separation efficiency can reach 98.0% for the heavy oil. Moreover, this special wettability mesh can still maintain high separation efficiency after 20 separation cycles, which indicates the good separation stability.
Facile One-Pot Synthesis of Substituted Hydantoins from Carbamates
Authors: Gill Manjinder , Tanwar Dinesh , Ratan Anjali
Published: August 2017

A novel and simple approach for the preparation of 3-substituted, 5-substituted, or 3,5-disubstituted hydantoins is reported. It involves the reaction of α-amino methyl ester hydrochlorides with carbamates to yield the corresponding ureido derivatives, which subsequently cyclize under basic conditions to produce substituted ­hydantoins in good yields. By applying this method, the bioactive anticonvulsant drug ethotoin was synthesized in good yield. The process avoids conventional multistep protocols and does not use the hazardous, irritant, toxic, or moisture-sensitive reagents, such as isocyanates or chloroformates, that are commonly used for the synthesis of these important compounds.
Synthesis of Fluoropyrrolidines and (Fluoroalkyl)pyrrolidines
Authors: Pfund Emmanuel , Lequeux Thierry
Published: August 2017

Pyrrolidines and their derivatives are of great interest in medicinal chemistry and organic synthesis. Fluoropyrrolidines and (fluoroalkyl)pyrrolidines have been utilized in the preparation of medicinal drugs and also as organocatalysts. The synthesis of such compounds is achieved through the fluorination of pyrrolidine derivatives or by multistep synthesis from already containing fluoroalkyl precursors.

1 Introduction

1.1 General Interest of Fluorine-Containing Pyrrolidines

1.2 Fluoroalkylpyrrolidines and the Gauche Effect

2 Fluoropyrrolidines

2.1 3-Fluoropyrrolidines

2.2 3,3- and 3,4-Difluoropyrrolidines

2.3 3,3,4-Trifluoropyrrolidines

2.4 3,3,4,4-Tetrafluoropyrrolidines

3 (Difluoromethyl)- and (Trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidines

3.1 2-(Trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidines

3.2 3- and 4-(Trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidines

3.3 2-(Difluoromethyl)pyrrolidines

3.4 3- and 4-(Difluoromethyl)pyrrolidines

4 (Monofluoroalkyl)pyrrolidines

4.1 2-(Monofluoromethyl)pyrrolidines

4.2 2-(Monofluoroalkyl)pyrrolidines

4.3 2-(Monofluoroalkenyl)pyrrolidines

5 Conclusion
Metal-Catalyzed Isomerization of 5-Heteroatom-Substituted Isoxazoles­ as a New Route to 2-Halo-2H-azirines
Authors: Novikov Mikhail , Rostovskii Nikolai , Agafonova Anastasiya , Smetanin Ilia , Khlebnikov Alexander , Ruvinskaya Julia , Starova Galina
Published: August 2017

A convenient gram-scale method for the preparation of 2-halo-2H-azirine-2-carboxylic acid esters, thioesters and amides via metal-catalyzed isomerization of 5-heteroatom-substituted 4-haloisoxazoles is developed. The formation of the esters and amides is efficiently catalyzed by Rh2(Piv)4, while FeCl2·4H2O is the catalyst of choice for the synthesis of the thioesters. In addition, rhodium catalysis is successfully applied in the synthesis of azirine-2-carboxylates from non-halogenated 5-alkoxyisoxazoles.
Recent Advances in Ring-Opening Polymerization of O-Carboxyanhydrides
Authors: Xie Linghai , Tong Rong , Feng Quanyou , Zhong Yongliang
Published: August 2017

Poly(α-hydroxy acids) are important biodegradable polymers with wide applications. Recently O-carboxyanhydrides (OCAs) have emerged as promising monomer equivalents of lactides to synthesize poly(α-hydroxy acids). We will highlight recent advances in controlled ring-opening polymerization of OCAs catalyzed by organocatalysts, enzymes, or organometallic complexes.

1 Introduction

2 Organocatalysts for O-Carboxyanhydride Polymerization

2.1 Synthesis of O-Carboxyanhydride Monomers

2.2 Ring-Opening Polymerization of O-Carboxyanhydrides Catalyzed by 4-Dimethylaminopyridine

2.3 Epimerization in the Ring-Opening Polymerization of O-Carboxyanhydrides Catalyzed by the Pyridine Base

2.4 N-Heterocyclic Carbenes for Ring-Opening Polymerization of O-Carboxyanhydrides

3 Enzymes for O-Carboxyanhydride Polymerization

4 Organometallic Catalysts for O-Carboxyanhydride Polymerization

4.1 Early Efforts

4.2 Ring-Opening Polymerization Catalyzed by Zn Complexes

4.3 Photoredox Ring-Opening Polymerization Catalyzed by Zn/Ni Complexes

5 Conclusion and Perspective
Aqueous, One-Pot, Three-Component Reaction for Efficient Synthesis of 2-[4-(Arylsulfonyl)piperazin-1-yl]-1,3-benzothiazole, ‑1H-benzimidazole, or -1,3-benzoxazole Derivatives
Authors: Dileep Kommula , Murty M.
Published: August 2017

A simple and efficient synthetic protocol has been developed involving a one-pot three-component reaction of a 2-chlorobenzazole, piperazine, and an arenesulfonyl chloride under aqueous conditions at room temperature in the absence of a catalyst, ligand, or base. By using this protocol, a variety of 2-[4-(arylsulfonyl)piperazin-1-yl]-1,3-benzothiazole, -1H-benzimidazole, and -1,3-benzoxazole derivatives were synthesized in excellent yields.
Síndrome compartimental en extremidad superior tras mordedura de ofidio en España
Authors: Grijelmo Sada Belén , Estefanía Díez Miguel , Peña David , Ruiz Alonso María , Rivera Vegas María , García Cano María
Published: August 2017

La mordedura de víbora en España es un hecho infrecuente pero que puede ser grave y presentar potenciales complicaciones tales como el síndrome compartimental. Conocer su manejo es clave para evitar secuelas. La extremidad superior es la localización más frecuente de la mordedura. Sin embargo, existe controversia acerca de cuál es el tratamiento indicado, y aunque tradicionalmente se ha abogado por las fasciotomías, publicaciones más recientes apoyan el uso de antivenenos como principal tratamiento por su gran efectividad y tolerabilidad. En el presente trabajo de actualización, se realiza una puesta al día con las publicaciones más relevantes, proponiendo el manejo mediante la administración de faboterápicos (antivenenos) y la medición de la presión intracompartimental antes de realizar una fasciotomía.
Imaging of Acute Hamstring Muscle Strain Injuries
Authors: Dimmick Simon , Linklater James
Published: August 2017

Acute athletic hamstring muscle strain injuries are common and a cause of significant time off sport. An understanding of the anatomy of the hamstring muscle-tendon units is a prerequisite for interpreting the spectrum of structural abnormalities on imaging. The site of injury may range from proximal tendon, proximal myotendinous junction, with or without tendon injury, muscle, myofascial junction, distal myotendinous junction to distal tendon. Imaging findings in muscle injury range from intrafascicular and interfascicular muscle edema, blurring of fascicular margins, distortion of pennation angle, localized muscle fascicle discontinuity through to more extensive multi-fascicular discontinuity. Imaging findings in tendon injury include tendon edema, redundancy, zipper-like morphology, and partial-complete tendon discontinuity. Imaging findings in fascial injury include poor definition of fascial margins with perifascial edema through to a fascial defect. Published grading systems are presented, and their so far limited utility in predicting return to play is reviewed.
“Cleaved Tau Protein”: A Novel Biomarker Candidate in Mild Neurotrauma in Emergency Settings
Authors: Singh Kulwant , Pandey Deepa , Chand Gian , Sharma Vivek , Jha Ravi , Singh Royana , Rai Sunil , Gupta Rashmi , Pandey Sharad
Published: August 2017

Background Neurotrauma has been labeled as a “silent epidemic” affecting both the developed and the developing nations. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) in humans leads to the proteolytic cleavage of tau protein called cleaved tau (C-tau) protein. The objectives of the study are to the role of serum cleaved tau (C-tau/τC) protein as a biomarker in patients with mild TBI and correlate it with the clinical progression (GCS) and clinical outcome (GOS) in emergency settings.

Materials and Methods The study has been approved by the institutional ethical committee. The study included 40 cases with mild TBI and 40 controls. C-tau protein levels were measured in venous samples in emergency using human cleaved microtubule-associated protein tau ELISA kit (by CUSABIO).

Results The mean serum C-tau protein level in cases was 44.76 ± 23.10 pg/mL (range: 12.32–96.44, 95% CI: 37.37–52.15) and controls was 33.82 ± 13.65 pg/mL, (range: 2.48–66.54, 95% CI: 29.46–38.19, p = 0.091). At admission the mean serum C-tau level was 65.15 ± 22.41, 43.87 ± 9.67, 26.15 ± 9.13 pg/mL in patients with GCS 13, 14, and 15, respectively. Serum cleaved tau protein levels in the good outcome group were significantly lower, that is, 40.77 ± 19.63 pg/mL (mean ± SD) (range: 12.32–88.71, 95% CI: 34.13–47.42) compared with the poor-outcome group 80.66 ± 23.10 pg/mL (mean ± SD) (range: 46.55–96.44, 95% CI: 43.88–117.43, p = 0.004).

Conclusion In this study, serum C-tau levels in patients with mild TBI were comparatively higher than those in the controls. Reaching a definitive conclusion will be too early and beyond the scope of this study. Thus, more studies are required in identifying its role as a diagnostic and prognostic marker in mild TBI.
QTc Interval in Adolescents and Young Athletes: Influence of Correction Formulas
Authors: Gervasi Salvatore , Bianco Massimiliano , Palmieri Vincenzo , Cuccaro Francesco , Zeppilli Paolo
Published: August 2017

A QTc interval at the upper limits in young athletes can be challenging. Regardless of factors able to influence it (age, electrolytes, etc.), several authors underlined that rate correction formulas can often underestimate/overestimate it. Our objective was to identify the most reliable formula and relative upper normal limit of QTc for this population. The rest ECG of 701 healthy elite male athletes was analyzed. QTc was calculated with 4 formulas (Bazett, Fridericia, Framingham, Hodges). Correlation/regression analysis of QTc vs. heart rate and upper limits were calculated and compared considering different age groups. Abnormal ECGs were compared considering different upper limits. Correlation between QTc and heart rate was highly significant using Bazett’s and Framingham’s formulas, lower using Hodges’ formula, and not significant using Fridericia’s formula. Except for Framingham’s, the number of abnormal ECGs was identical considering an upper limit of 480 msec, and significantly different for lower limits. Upper limits were: Bazett 469 msec, Fridericia 451 msec, Framingham 458 msec, and Hodges 461 msec. Except for Framingham’s, no difference among other formulas in individuating abnormal ECGs for QTc≥480 msec was found. QTc obtained with the Bazett’s formula appears highly dependent on heart rate. This, especially in the grey zone (440–480 msec), can lead to overtesting. Framingham’s formula shows similar limits. Hodges’ formula offers uncertain reliability. Fridericia’s formula seems the most reliable.
The Effect of Clinical Pilates on Functional Movement in Recreational Runners
Authors: Laws Anna , Williams Sean , Wilson Cassie
Published: August 2017

Biomechanical imbalances and inefficient functional movements are considered contributing factors to running-related injuries. Clinical Pilates uses a series of exercises focused on retraining normal movement patterns. This study investigated whether a 6-week course of Clinical Pilates improves functional movement and thereby, potentially, reduces the risk of running-related injuries associated with movement dysfunction. A modified functional movement screen was used to analyze the functional movement ability of forty runners. Forty participants completed a 6-week course of Clinical Pilates delivered by a Clinical Pilates instructor. The movement screen was carried out 3 times for each runner: 6 weeks pre-intervention (baseline), within one week pre-intervention (pre) and within one week post-intervention (post). Repeated-measures analysis of variance and post-hoc tests found significant increases in scores between baseline and post (mean±SD; 13.4±2.4 vs. 17.0±1.7, p<0.01) and pre and post (mean±SD; 13.5±2.5 vs. 17.0±1.7, p<0.01), but no significant difference between baseline and pre (p=0.3). A 6-week course of Clinical Pilates significantly improves functional movement in recreational runners, and this may lead to a reduction in the risk of running-related injuries.
Existence of cryogenic magnetic entropy change in Gd based nanoparticles
Authors: Zeleňáková A. , Hrubovčák P. , Berkutova A. , Kapusta O. , Zeleňák V.
Published: August 2017

Magnetic nanoparticles with average diameter of 5–7 nm were prepared by nanocasting method inside of the pores of periodic silica matrix of SBA15 type. The uniform size of the pores limited the particles' growth what resulted in formation of nanocomposite consisting of monodisperse nanoparticles of Gd2O3 embedded in amorphous silica matrix. Magnetic properties of the material were examined in magnetic fields up to 5 T and in temperature range 2–52 K. The magnetic entropy change of 29 J/kg K was observed at 2 K for field variation 5 T in the investigated nanocomposite what suggests this material could be feasible for cryomagnetic refrigeration applications.
Development of cold cathode arc discharge filament based multi-cusp H− ion source
Authors: Kumar Rajnish , Ghodke Dharmraj V. , Senecha Vinod K.
Published: August 2017

A cold cathode arc discharge filament based multicusp H− ion source (HNIS) has been developed using an innovative low power igniter system working in a glow discharge regime to achieve a longer lifetime of the filament. This HNIS is cesium-free and its experimental prototype generates a maximum H− ion beam (HNIB) current of 12 mA at 50 keV beam energy in pulse mode with a peak arc power of 27 kW using the triode extraction system. This article presents the results of initial commissioning of the HNIS and steering magnetic field used to separate out the co-extracted electrons from HNIB, verified through experiments and 3-D ion beam simulations.
Tip-induced passivation of dangling bonds on hydrogenated Si(100)-2 × 1
Authors: Pavliček Niko , Majzik Zsolt , Meyer Gerhard , Gross Leo
Published: August 2017

Using combined low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM), we demonstrate hydrogen passivation of individual, selected dangling bonds (DBs) on a hydrogen-passivated Si(100)-2 × 1 surface (H–Si) by atom manipulation. This method allows erasing of DBs and thus provides a promising scheme for error-correction in hydrogen lithography. Both Si-terminated tips (Si tips) for hydrogen desorption and H-terminated tips (H tips) for hydrogen passivation are created by deliberate contact to the H–Si surface and are assigned by their characteristic contrast in AFM. DB passivation is achieved by transferring the H atom that is at the apex of an H tip to the DB, reestablishing a locally defect-free H–Si surface.
Experimental studies on striations in helium glow discharge
Authors: Zhu Hailong , Su Zixuan , Dong Youer
Published: August 2017

This letter reports the detailed observations and investigations of striations in the positive column region of helium glow discharges with a pin-to-plate copper electrode geometry in the pressure range 9–101 kPa. The striations are characterized by several plasma layers with alternate brightness and darkness. In this discharge, features such as negative glow, Faraday dark space, and striated positive column regions can be clearly observed. The evolution of a striation structure in the positive column region was found to be sensitive to gas pressure and electrode spacing. The striated discharge propagates in the form of an ionization wave with a velocity of 20.78 m/s and a frequency of 5.2 kHz.
Investigation of electronic transport through ultrathin carbon nanomembrane junctions by conductive probe atomic force microscopy and eutectic Ga–In top contacts
Authors: Zhang Xianghui , Marschewski Emanuel , Penner Paul , Beyer André , Gölzhäuser Armin
Published: August 2017

Highly ordered self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) can be considered as functional building blocks for molecular electronics. Aromatic SAMs can be converted into a highly stable monolayer, i.e., carbon nanomembranes, via electron irradiation induced cross-linking. Here, we report the electronic transport characteristics of the pristine SAM of 4′-nitro-1,1′-biphenyl-4-thiol (NBPT) and the amino-terminated cross-linked monolayer prepared on Au/mica and Au/Si substrates with the use of a conductive probe atomic force microscope (CP-AFM) and a eutectic Ga–In (EGaIn) top electrode. The amino-terminated cross-linking monolayer exhibits a lower friction compared to the non-crosslinked SAM, as electron irradiation leads to the enhancement of both molecular rigidity and hydrophilicity. The electron irradiation effect on junction conductance was also directly observed by CP-AFM. Quantitative measurements and statistical analysis were performed by applying current–voltage spectroscopy in CP-AFM and EGaIn methods. Both methods demonstrate that the cross-linking of a NBPT–SAM leads to a decrease of conductance by more than one order of magnitude, which is attributed to a partial loss of aromaticity of the SAM as well as a partial decoupling of molecules from the Au substrate. Transition voltages were found to be significantly reduced for the cross-linked monolayer. The surface roughness effect on the transport characteristics has been addressed based on a comparison between two junction platforms.
Experimental validation of an ultra-thin metasurface cloak for hiding a metallic obstacle from an antenna radiation at low frequencies
Authors: Teperik Tatiana V. , Burokur Shah Nawaz , de Lustrac André , Sabanowski Guy , Piau Gérard-Pascal
Published: August 2017

We demonstrate numerically and experimentally an ultra-thin (≈ λ/240) metasurface-based invisibility cloak for low frequency antenna applications. We consider a monopole antenna mounted on a ground plane and a cylindrical metallic obstacle of diameter smaller than the wavelength located in its near-field. To restore the intrinsic radiation patterns of the antenna perturbed by this obstacle, a metasurface cloak consisting simply of a metallic patch printed on a dielectric substrate is wrapped around the obstacle. Using a finite element method based commercial electromagnetic solver, we show that the radiation patterns of the monopole antenna can be restored completely owing to electromagnetic modes of the resonant cavity formed between the patch and obstacle. The metasurface cloak is fabricated, and the concept is experimentally demonstrated at 125 MHz. Performed measurements are in good agreement with numerical simulations, verifying the efficiency of the proposed cloak.
Measurement of contact angles of microscopic droplets by focal length method
Authors: Geiger Daniel , Geiger Kirsten , Neckernuss Tobias , Marti Othmar , Amirkhani Masoud
Published: August 2017

We present a method to measure contact angles of microscopic droplets with a conventional microscope that possesses a precision focus adjustment stage. The droplets are modeled as spherical caps that act as lenses. Their focal length is determined by measuring the distance from the substrate surface to the level where a sharp image of the aperture stop is observed. The lens diameter is found by edge detection of a microscope image of the microdroplets. The spherical cap model relates the focal length and diameter of such lenses to the contact angle of the used liquid with known refractive index. The measurement procedure was applied to condensed water droplets on a silicon substrate covered by its native oxide layer. The results are found to be in good agreement with conventional, goniometric sessile drop measurements of the advancing contact angle.
Impedance-matching acoustic bend composed of perforated plates and side pipes
Authors: Yang Yuzhen , Jia Han , Lu Wenjia , Sun Zhaoyong , Yang Jun
Published: August 2017

In this article, we propose a design for an impedance-matching acoustic bend. The bending structure is composed of sub-wavelength unit cells containing perforated plates and side pipes that allow the mass density and the bulk modulus of each unit cell to be tuned simultaneously. The refractive index and the impedance of the acoustic bend can therefore be modulated simultaneously to guarantee both the bending effect and high acoustic transmission. The results of simulation of the sound pressure field distribution show that the bending effect of the proposed impedance-matching acoustic bend is very good. Transmission spectra are calculated for both the impedance-matching acoustic bend and an acoustic bend composed of the perforated plates alone for comparison. The results indicate that the impedance-matching acoustic bend successfully improves the impedance ratio while also obviously increasing the transmission.
Effects of the wall boundary conditions of a showerhead plasma reactor on the uniformity control of RF plasma deposition
Authors: Kim Ho Jun , Lee Hae June
Published: August 2017

Technical difficulties hinder the formation of uniform deposition profiles near the electrode edge during a deposition in a showerhead capacitively coupled plasma (CCP) reactor. The discharge structure, gas flow, and radial distribution of the source gas outward from the electrode edge are subject to change significantly, which in turn affects the spatial distributions of the radical fluxes toward the electrode. To control the local non-uniformity of deposition profiles in the SiH4/NH3/N2/He CCP discharges for a hydrogenated silicon nitride (SiNxHy) film, the effects of the reactor components―including the sidewall boundary condition, electrode spacing, and showerhead design―were investigated using an axisymmetric fluid model. When the sidewall is electrically grounded, the deposition rate profiles of the SiNxHy film remain consistently convex (in which the deposition rate at the reactor center is locally much higher than that near the electrode edge), regardless of electrode spacing. However, when the sidewall surface is dielectric, the deposition rate profile can be transformed between a convex and a concave shape (in which the deposition rate at the reactor center is locally much lower than that near the electrode edge) by varying electrode spacing. The showerhead design also enables the modification of edge deposition profiles by redistribution of the local depletion rate of radicals. The simulation results agree very well with the experimental measurement.
Taming stochastic bifurcations in fractional-order systems via noise and delayed feedback
Authors: Sun Zhongkui , Zhang Jintian , Yang Xiaoli , Xu Wei
Published: August 2017

The dynamics in fractional-order systems have been widely studied during the past decade due to the potential applications in new materials and anomalous diffusions, but the investigations have been so far restricted to a fractional-order system without time delay(s). In this paper, we report the first study of random responses of fractional-order system coupled with noise and delayed feedback. Stochastic averaging method has been utilized to determine the stationary probability density functions (PDFs) by means of the principle of minimum mean-square error, based on which stochastic bifurcations could be identified through recognizing the shape of the PDFs. It has been found that by changing the fractional order the shape of the PDFs can switch from unimodal distribution to bimodal one, or from bimodal distribution to unimodal one, thus announcing the onset of stochastic bifurcation. Further, we have demonstrated that by merely modulating the time delay, the feedback strengths, or the noise intensity, the shapes of PDFs can transit between a single peak and a double peak. Therefore, it provides an efficient candidate to control, say, induce or suppress, the stochastic bifurcations in fractional-order systems.
Velocity boundary conditions for positive ions entering radio-frequency sheaths in electronegative plasmas
Authors: Sobolewski Mark A. , Wang Yicheng , Goyette Amanda
Published: August 2017

Under certain conditions in radio-frequency (rf) plasmas, the amplitude of the low-energy peak in ion energy distributions (IEDs) measured at an electrode depends sensitively on the velocity at which ions approach the sheath. By measuring IEDs, incident ion velocities can be determined. Here, IEDs were measured in inductively coupled plasmas in 1.3 Pa of CF4, at rf sheath voltages up to 100 V at 1 MHz, obtained by biasing a counterelectrode. From measured IEDs and sheath voltages, we determined the incident velocities of all significant positive ions: CF3+, CF2+, CF+, and F+. At higher bias voltages, we detected essentially the same velocity for all four ions, suggesting that some collisional process keeps different ions at the same velocity as they emerge from the presheath. For all four ions, measured velocities were significantly lower than the Bohm velocity uB and the electropositive ion sound speed cs, because of negative ion effects. From the measured velocities, an upper bound for negative ion temperature is obtained. The velocities determined here do not agree with boundary conditions that have been previously proposed, because the latter neglect either the reduction in ion sound speed due to negative ions or the acceleration that occurs as ions pass from the point where quasineutrality is violated to the point where electron density becomes negligible. Both of these effects are treated to fair approximation, for collisionless sheaths, by setting the initial velocity to twice the ion sound speed modified by negative ions.