bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the photo-induced degradation of electron acceptors on the photophysics, charge transport and device performance of all-polymer and fullerene–polymer solar cells
Authors: Kim Taesu , Younts Robert , Lee Wonho , Lee Seungjin , Gundogdu Kenan , Kim Bumjoon J.
Published: September 2017

We report a comparative study of the photo-stabilities of all-polymer and fullerene-polymer solar cells based on the same polymer donor.
High-performance nonfullerene polymer solar cells based on a fluorinated wide bandgap copolymer with a high open-circuit voltage of 1.04 V
Authors: Wang Yan , Fan Qunping , Guo Xia , Li Wanbin , Guo Bing , Su Wenyan , Ou Xuemei , Zhang Maojie
Published: September 2017

Nonfullerene polymer solar cells based on a polymer donor PM6 containing a fluorinated-thienyl benzodithiophene unit and a small molecule acceptor ITIC showed a PCE of 9.7% with a Voc of up to 1.04 V and an energy loss as low as 0.51 eV.
ATP and NADPH coated iron oxide nanoparticles for targeting of highly metabolic tumor cells
Authors: Bonvin D. , Bastiaansen J. A. M. , Stuber M. , Hofmann H. , Mionić Ebersold M.
Published: September 2017

ATP/NADPH directly bound to the surface of iron oxide nanoparticles for simultaneous coating, targeting and high MRIr2relaxivity.
Metalla-aromatic loaded magnetic nanoparticles for MRI/photoacoustic imaging-guided cancer phototherapy
Authors: Yang Caixia , Lin Gan , Zhu Congqing , Pang Xin , Zhang Yang , Wang Xiaoyong , Li Xianglin , Wang Bin , Xia Haiping , Liu Gang
Published: September 2017

In this study, metalla-aromatic agents and a cluster of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles were loaded inside a micellar carrier and used for MRI/PA imaging-guided PTT/PDT synergistic cancer therapy.
Strong multi-functions based on conjugating chondroitin sulfate onto an amine-rich surface will direct the vascular cell fate for cardiovascular implanted devices
Authors: Li Jingan , Zou Dan , Zhang Kun , Luo Xiao , Yang Ping , Jing Yuying , Zhang Yuxuan , Cui Guilin , Huang Nan
Published: September 2017

This research may support potential applications for surface modification of cardiovascular implants to achieve improved multi-functions.
Probing the local structure of the near-infrared emitting persistent phosphor LiGa5O8:Cr3+
Authors: De Clercq Olivier Q. , Martin Lisa I. D. J. , Korthout Katleen , Kusakovskij Jevgenij , Vrielinck Henk , Poelman Dirk
Published: September 2017

A combination of techniques is used to investigate the incorporation of chromium in the persistent phosphor LiGa5O8:Cr3+. Afterglow can be enhanced by codoping with Si(iv) or Ge(iv) ions.
Photoswitchable thermogelling systems based on a host–guest approach
Authors: Hao Xiang , Xu MiaoMiao , Hu Jun , Yan Qiang
Published: September 2017

A photocontrolled thermogelling system based on host–guest approach has been constructed for intelligent regulation of fluid mechanical properties.
Doping of thermoelectric PbSe with chemically inert secondary phase nanoparticles
Authors: Wu Chao-Feng , Wang Heng , Yan Qimin , Wei Tian-Ran , Li Jing-Feng
Published: September 2017

Chemically inert nanoparticles were composited with semiconducting PbSe, realizing co-optimization on both mechanical strength and thermoelectric performance with a new doping mechanism related to interfaces.
Substrate orientation-induced epitaxial growth of face centered cubic Mo2C superconductive thin film
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Zhang Fan , Wang Huichao , Ho Chan Cheuk , Lu Wei , Dai Ji-yan
Published: September 2017

Face centered cubic Mo2C superconductive thin film was epitaxially grown on a sapphire substrate controlled by the substrate orientation.
Optimal strategy for polarization modulation in the LSPE-SWIPE experiment
Authors: Buzzelli A. , de Bernardis P. , Masi S. , Vittorio N. , de Gasperis G.
Published: September 2017

Context. Cosmic microwave background (CMB) B-mode experiments are required to control systematic effects with an unprecedented level of accuracy. Polarization modulation by a half wave plate (HWP) is a powerful technique able to mitigate a large number of the instrumental systematics.

Aims. Our goal is to optimize the polarization modulation strategy of the upcoming LSPE-SWIPE balloon-borne experiment, devoted to the accurate measurement of CMB polarization at large angular scales.

Methods. We departed from the nominal LSPE-SWIPE modulation strategy (HWP stepped every 60 s with a telescope scanning at around 12 deg/s) and performed a thorough investigation of a wide range of possible HWP schemes (either in stepped or continuously spinning mode and at different azimuth telescope scan-speeds) in the frequency, map and angular power spectrum domain. In addition, we probed the effect of high-pass and band-pass filters of the data stream and explored the HWP response in the minimal case of one detector for one operation day (critical for the single-detector calibration process). We finally tested the modulation performance against typical HWP-induced systematics.

Results. Our analysis shows that some stepped HWP schemes, either slowly rotating or combined with slow telescope modulations, represent poor choices. Moreover, our results point out that the nominal configuration may not be the most convenient choice. While a large class of spinning designs provides comparable results in terms of pixel angle coverage, map-making residuals and BB power spectrum standard deviations with respect to the nominal strategy, we find that some specific configurations (e.g., a rapidly spinning HWP with a slow gondola modulation) allow a more efficient polarization recovery in more general real-case situations.

Conclusions. Although our simulations are specific to the LSPE-SWIPE mission, the general outcomes of our analysis can be easily generalized to other CMB polarization experiments.
Unified formulation and analysis of mixed and primal discontinuous skeletal methods on polytopal meshes
Authors: Boffi Daniele , Di Pietro Daniele A.
Published: September 2017

We propose in this work a unified formulation of mixed and primal discretization methods on polyhedral meshes hinging on globally coupled degrees of freedom that are discontinuous polynomials on the mesh skeleton. To emphasize this feature, these methods are referred to here as discontinuous skeletal. As a starting point, we define two families of discretizations corresponding, respectively, to mixed and primal formulations of discontinuous skeletal methods. Each family is uniquely identified by prescribing three polynomial degrees defining the degrees of freedom, and a stabilization bilinear form which has to satisfy two properties of simple verification: stability and polynomial consistency. Several examples of methods available in the recent literature are shown to belong to either one of those families. We then prove new equivalence results that build a bridge between the two families of methods. Precisely, we show that for any mixed method there exists a corresponding equivalent primal method, and the converse is true provided that the gradients are approximated in suitable spaces. A unified convergence analysis is carried out delivering optimal error estimates in both energy- and L2-norms.
A difference scheme for a degenerating convection-diffusion-reaction system modelling continuous sedimentation
Authors: Bürger Raimund , Diehl Stefan , Mejías Camilo
Published: September 2017

Continuously operated settling tanks are used for the gravity separation of solid-liquid suspensions in several industries. Mathematical models of these units form a topic for well-posedness and numerical analysis even in one space dimension due to the spatially discontinuous coefficients of the underlying strongly degenerate parabolic, nonlinear model partial differential equation (PDE). Such a model is extended to describe the sedimentation of multi-component particles that react with several soluble components of the liquid phase. The fundamental balance equations contain the mass percentages of the components of the solid and liquid phases. The equations are reformulated as a system of nonlinear PDEs that can be solved consecutively in each time step by an explicit numerical scheme. This scheme combines a difference scheme for conservation laws with discontinuous flux with an approach of numerical percentage propagation for multi-component flows. The main result is an invariant-region property, which implies that physically relevant numerical solutions are produced. Simulations of denitrification in secondary settling tanks in wastewater treatment illustrate the model and its discretization.
High-order filtered schemes for time-dependent second order HJB equations
Authors: Bokanowski Olivier , Picarelli Athena , Reisinger Christoph
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we present and analyse a class of “filtered” numerical schemes for second order Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman (HJB) equations. Our approach follows the ideas recently introduced in B.D. Froese and A.M. Oberman, Convergent filtered schemes for the Monge-Ampère partial differential equation, SIAM J. Numer. Anal. 51 (2013) 423–444, and more recently applied by other authors to stationary or time-dependent first order Hamilton–Jacobi equations. For high order approximation schemes (where “high” stands for greater than one), the inevitable loss of monotonicity prevents the use of the classical theoretical results for convergence to viscosity solutions. The work introduces a suitable local modification of these schemes by “filtering” them with a monotone scheme, such that they can be proven convergent and still show an overall high order behaviour for smooth enough solutions. We give theoretical proofs of these claims and illustrate the behaviour with numerical tests from mathematical finance, focussing also on the use of backward differencing formulae for constructing the high order schemes.
Finite element approximation of an incompressible chemically reacting non-Newtonian fluid
Authors: Ko Seungchan , Pustějovská Petra , Süli Endre
Published: September 2017

We consider a system of nonlinear partial differential equations modelling the steady motion of an incompressible non-Newtonian fluid, which is chemically reacting. The governing system consists of a steady convection-diffusion equation for the concentration and the generalized steady Navier–Stokes equations, where the viscosity coefficient is a power-law type function of the shear-rate, and the coupling between the equations results from the concentration-dependence of the power-law index. This system of nonlinear partial differential equations arises in mathematical models of the synovial fluid found in the cavities of moving joints. We construct a finite element approximation of the model and perform the mathematical analysis of the numerical method in the case of two space dimensions. Key technical tools include discrete counterparts of the Bogovskiĭ operator, De Giorgi’s regularity theorem in two dimensions, and the Acerbi–Fusco Lipschitz truncation of Sobolev functions, in function spaces with variable integrability exponents.
Scalar problems in junctions of rods and a plate
Authors: Bunoiu Renata , Cardone Giuseppe , Nazarov Sergey A.
Published: September 2017

In this work we deal with a scalar spectral mixed boundary value problem in a spacial junction of thin rods and a plate. Constructing asymptotics of the eigenvalues, we employ two equipollent asymptotic models posed on the skeleton of the junction, that is, a hybrid domain. We, first, use the technique of self-adjoint extensions and, second, we impose algebraic conditions at the junction points in order to compile a problem in a function space with detached asymptotics. The latter problem is involved into a symmetric generalized Green formula and, therefore, admits the variational formulation. In comparison with a primordial asymptotic procedure, these two models provide much better proximity of the spectra of the problems in the spacial junction and in its skeleton. However, they exhibit the negative spectrum of finite multiplicity and for these “parasitic” eigenvalues we derive asymptotic formulas to demonstrate that they do not belong to the service area of the developed asymptotic models.
Small Molecules as Long-Wavelength Fluorophores: Push-Pull Substituted 4-Alkoxy-1,3-thiazoles
Authors: Beckert Rainer , Habenicht Stefanie , Rohland Philip , Reichel Jeaninne , Biver Tarita , Minei Pierpaolo , Jakobi Dörthe , Pucci Andrea , Weiß Dieter , Görls Helmar
Published: September 2017

A series of donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) substituted 4-hydroxythiazoles have been synthesized. Electron-donating groups (4-methoxyphenyl and 4-dimethylaminophenyl) were installed in the 5-position of the thiazole; thiophene/pyridine-bridged acceptors (formyl groups and their Knoevenagel condensation products) were placed in the 2-position. The influence of D-π-A character on the photophysical properties and electronic structure was investigated by means of UV/Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy.
Evaluation of the Plant Theory
Authors: Scholten Jan
Published: September 2017

This article discusses the value of the Plant theory in practice. This was done by informally asking around 10 homeopaths about their experience with the Plant theory. The complexity of the Plant kingdom makes several factors to be ascertained. This complexity takes time to learn. Though the benefits are great once it is learned. The learning is more than worth the time it takes. It opens the whole botanical world.
Refining the Translation of Accurate Perceptions into an Accurate Prescription: A Case of Beaucarnea recurvata
Authors: Anderson David
Published: September 2017

The author describes the challenge the homeopath has in making an accurate translation of a well-perceived and well-taken case into an accurate prescription. Using a case spanning 25 years of mostly non-helpful prescriptions, he describes how utilizing the seven parameters of Jan Scholten's analytical framework of perceiving and conceptualizing human suffering and the Plant kingdom guided him to an accurate and highly effective remedy.
A Case of Simaruba Cedron
Authors: Scholten Jan
Published: September 2017

This article describes a case of Simaruba cedron, mostly known in homeopathy as Cedron. The remedy was prescribed on the keynote ‘worse on exactly the same time’. This was long before the Plant theory was discovered and around 12 years before the book ‘Wonderful Plants’ was published. The interesting thing is that many aspects of the Plant theory are confirmed by the case. The case shows strong aspects of the Silver series, Phase 5 and Phase 6. Stage 9 is the information that comes from the case.
Everything Comes into Me: Vernix Caseosa
Authors: Collins Deborah , Leupen Alex
Published: September 2017

Alex Leupen practices in the Homeopathic Doctors' Centre in Utrecht, the Netherlands, since 1990. Eight colleagues work in this centre, including Jan Scholten. Alex is an experienced teacher (the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Germany) on the underlying systems in the plant families, animal kingdom, sarcodes, nosodes, fungi and the periodic table of the elements pertaining to homeopathic practice. In this column, he shares clinical tips.
The Effect of Split Nerve on Electromyography Signal Pattern in a Rat Model
Authors: Deslivia Maria , Lee Hyun-Joo , Zulkarnain Rizki , Zhu Bin , Adikrishna Arnold , Jeon In-ho , Kim Keehoon
Published: September 2017

Background Recent developments of prosthetic arm are based on the use of electromyography (EMG) signals. To provide improvements, such as coordinated movement of multiple joints and greater control intuitiveness, higher variability of EMG signals is needed. By splitting a nerve lengthwise, connecting each half to new target muscles, and employing a program to assign each biosignal pattern to a specific movement, we hope to enrich the number of biosignal sites on amputees' stump.

Methods We split the gastrocnemius muscle of 12 Sprague-Dawley rats into two muscle heads, searched for the peroneal nerve, divided them lengthwise, and connected one half of the nerve to the tibial nerve innervating both muscle heads (SN_50, n = 8). In another group, we connected the undivided peroneal nerve to the nerve of a single muscle head (non-SN_100, n = 6), while the other muscle head received different innervation (non-SN_0, n = 6). After 10 weeks, we stimulated the peroneal nerve and measured the EMG amplitude.

Results Mean EMG amplitude of the muscle head innervated by one half of the nerve (SN_50; 1.77 [range: 0.71–3.24] mV) and by the undivided nerve (non-SN_100; 3.45 mV [range: 1.13–5.34]) was not significantly different. However, the mean EMG amplitude produced by SN_50 was significantly different from that of the other innervation (i.e., non-SN_0; 0.76 mV [range: 0.41–1.35]), indicating the presence of noise.

Conclusion Split nerve in combination with split-muscle procedure can yield a meaningful EMG signal that might be used to convey the intention of living organism to a machine.
Félix Plater y la enfermedad de Dupuytren
Authors: Renú J. M.ª , Boada A.
Published: September 2017

Es difícil identificar la primera descripción en la literatura médica de la enfermedad de Dupuytren, posiblemente sea la de Félix Plater en el año 1614, pero el texto está escrito en un latín lleno de modismos y no queda claro si considera que la causa de la retracción son los tendones flexores u otra estructura cordonal formada en la palma de la mano.
Variações anatômicas do ramo tenar do nervo mediano no túnel do carpo
Authors: Giostri G. , Sobania R. , Nagai A. , Novak E. , Molina G.
Published: September 2017

Lanz, em 1977, classificou as possíveis variações do ramo motor no nervo mediano em relação ao ligamento transverso do carpo. Baseado nesse trabalho, foi proposto um estudo realizado em cadáveres para observar as possíveis variações da anatomia do ramo motor do nervo mediano. Foram utilizadas 44 peças anatômicas de membros superiores conservadas em formol. Foram dissecadas, cuidadosamente, a emergência e a entrada do ramo tenar na musuclatura, observando o número de ramos, a região da emergência e o tipo de trajeto, de acordo com a classificação de Lanz. A variação mais encontrada foi a anormalidades no trajeto do ramo tenar do nervo mediano, sendo a maior parte do tipo extra-ligamentar. A maior parte das peças anatômicas possuía apenas um ramo tenar do nervo mediano.
Systemic Hypoxia Increases the Expression of DPP4 in Preadipocytes of Healthy Human Participants
Authors: Chowdhury Helena , Velebit Jelena , Mekjavic Igor , Eiken Ola , Kreft Marko , Zorec Robert
Published: September 2017

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) is a transmembrane glycoprotein involved in protein degradation. Due to its action on incretins, which increase insulin secretion, DPP4 is considered a therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes. Here we have studied the role of single and combined effects of hypoxia and inactivity on the expression of DPP4 in human adipose tissue of 12 adult normal-weight males. Fat biopsies were obtained at baseline and after each of three experimental campaigns. The results revealed that in isolated human preadipocytes the expression of DPP4 was significantly increased by exposure of participants to hypoxia. Physical inactivity per se had no apparent effect on the DPP4 expression. It is concluded that DPP4 may be a marker to monitor indirectly tissue hypoxia, as occurs in obese subjects.
Homöopathische Begleitung in der Kinderpalliativmedizin
Authors: Grasser Monika
Published: September 2017

In der Palliativbetreuung von Kindern und Jugendlichen wurden in den letzten Jahren viele innovative Fortschritte gemacht; die Anforderungen der WHO zur palliativmedizinischen Versorgung von Kindern werden hier dargestellt sowie die derzeitigen Versorgungsstrukturen in Deutschland beschrieben. Die beiden wichtigsten homöopathischen Mittel in der Betreuung und Begleitung sterbender Kinder und Jugendlicher werden besprochen und differenziert. Anschließend wird die praktische homöopathische Begleitung anhand zweier Fallbeispiele von Kindern mit schweren angeborenen Erkrankungen vorgestellt. Sie zeigen, wie die Krankheitssymptome gelindert und die Lebensqualität des jeweiligen Kindes und seiner Familie verbessert werden können.
What Characterizes Depression in Old Age? Results from the Bruneck Study
Authors: Defrancesco Michaela , Pechlaner Raimund , Kiechl Stefan , Willeit Johann , Deisenhammer Eberhard , Hinterhuber Hartmann , Rungger Gregor , Gasperi Arno , Marksteiner Josef
Published: September 2017

Introduction Depression in old age is associated with functional disabilities, cognitive impairment, lower self-rated quality of life, and increased mortality. The aim of the study was to reveal the prevalence of depression and to investigate the characteristics of patients treated with antidepressants.

Methods We analyzed data from the Bruneck Study 2010. All participants completed a clinical examination, cognitive screening, the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) (cutoff score of>8 to define relevant depressive symptoms), and the World Health Organization quality of life questionnaire (WHO-QoL). Group differences were calculated using binary logistic regression analysis.

Results Out of 456 participants (mean age of 73.1±8.2 years), 22.1% showed depressive symptoms, and out of these, 30% were taking antidepressants. The depressed group compared to the GDS ≤8 group showed significantly lower WHO-QoL (p<0.001) and Mini Mental State Examination (p=0.015) score. Further, 13% of the latter compared to the GDS>8 group received antidepressants, and these had a lower WHO-QoL score (p<0.033).

Discussion Depressive symptoms are frequent in the elderly population. Our results confirm the negative influence of depressive symptoms on cognition and quality of life. Patients with somatic comorbidities are likely to receive more antidepressant medication.
Grincamycins I – K, Cytotoxic Angucycline Glycosides Derived from Marine-Derived Actinomycete Streptomyces lusitanus SCSIO LR32
Authors: Lai Zhenzhu , Yu Jianchen , Ling Huiping , Song Yongxiang , Yuan Jie , Ju Jianhua , Tao Yiwen , Huang Hongbo
Published: September 2017

Three new angucycline glycosides, designated grincamycin I (1), J (2), and K (3), together with the known congener A-7884 (4), were isolated from marine-derived actinomycete Streptomyces lusitanus SCSIO LR32. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by comprehensive spectral data analysis. Compounds 2 and 4 exhibited antitumor activity against human cancer cells MDA-MB-435, MDA-MB-231, NCI-H460, HCT-116 and HepG2, and human normal breast epithelial cell MCF10A with IC50 values ranging from 0.4 to 6.9 µM. In addition, A-7884 (4) demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Micrococcus luteus with an MIC value of 1.95 µg/mL.
Dissipative structures: From reaction-diffusion to chemo-hydrodynamic patterns
Authors: Budroni M. A. , De Wit A.
Published: September 2017

The interplay of reaction and diffusion processes can trigger localized spatiotemporal patterns when two solutions containing separate reactants A and B of an oscillating reaction are put in contact. Using the Brusselator, a classical model for chemical oscillations, we show numerically that localized waves and Turing patterns as well as reaction-diffusion (RD) patterns due to an interaction between these two kinds of modes can develop in time around the reactive contact zone depending on the initial concentration of reactants and diffusion coefficients of the intermediate species locally produced. We further explore the possible hydrodynamic destabilization of an initially buoyantly stable stratification of such an A + B → oscillator system, when the chemical reaction provides a buoyant periodic forcing via localized density changes. Guided by the properties of the underlying RD dynamics, we predict new chemo-hydrodynamic instabilities on the basis of the dynamic density profiles which are here varying with the concentration of one of the intermediate species of the oscillator. Nonlinear simulations of the related reaction-diffusion-convection equations show how the active coupling between the localized oscillatory kinetics and buoyancy-driven convection can induce pulsatile convective fingering and pulsatile plumes as well as rising or sinking Turing spots, depending on the initial concentration of the reactants and their contribution to the density.
Reference Correlations for the Viscosity and Thermal Conductivity of n-Undecane
Authors: Assael M. J. , Papalas T. B. , Huber M. L.
Published: September 2017

This paper presents new, wide-ranging correlations for the viscosity and thermal conductivity of n-undecane based on critically evaluated experimental data. The correlations are designed to be used with a recently published equation of state that is valid from the triple point to 700 K, at pressures up to 500 MPa, with densities below 776.86 kg m−3. The estimated uncertainty for the dilute-gas viscosity is 2.4%, and the estimated uncertainty for viscosity in the liquid phase for pressures up to 60 MPa over the temperature range 260 K–520 K is 5%. The estimated uncertainty is 3% for the thermal conductivity of the low-density gas and 3% for the liquid over the temperature range from 284 K to 677 K at pressures up to 400 MPa. Both correlations behave in a physically reasonable manner when extrapolated to the full range of the equation of state, but care should be taken when using the correlations outside of the validated range. The uncertainties will be larger outside of the validated range and also in the critical region.
Nonlinearity acoustic parameters from equation of state of liquid sodium under pressure
Authors: Li Huaming , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Sun Yongli , Li Mo
Published: September 2017

In the present paper, the expressions for acoustical parameter and nonlinearity parameter are obtained based on thermodynamic relations from an equation of state with a power law form. Both parameters for liquid Sodium are calculated under high pressure along the isothermal lines by using the available thermodynamic data and numeric derivations. The relation between the isochoric acoustical parameter and internal pressure is derived and the corresponding approximation at low pressure condition is discussed. The present results show nonlinearity parameter is a nonlinear function of pressure along the isothermal lines in liquid sodium. The calculated values are found to be very close to the experimental measurements and quasi-thermodynamic theory at melting point at ambient condition. Furthermore, several other thermodynamic quantities are also presented.
Magnetization of the joint-free high temperature superconductor (RE)Ba2Cu3Ox coil by field cooling
Authors: Zheng Yali , Wang Yawei , Li Jianwei , Jin Zhijian
Published: September 2017

Joint-free (RE)Ba2Cu3Ox (REBCO) coil based on ‘wind-and-flip’ technique has been developed to generate a persistent magnetic field without power supply. This paper is to study the magnetization characteristics of the joint-free REBCO coil by field cooling, in order to trap higher field. A joint-free pancake coil is wound by REBCO tapes and the field cooling magnetization test is performed on it. An approximate numerical model based on H-formulation is built for this coil to analyze its magnetization behavior, which is validated by the experimental results Analysis show that a persistent direct current is induced in the coil during the field cooling operation, which generates the trapped field. The induced current of the joint-free coil shows an intrinsic non-uniform distribution among turns. Increasing the magnetization field and critical current of REBCO conductors can considerably increase the trapped field. But the trapping factor (the rate of trapped field to background magnetization field) reaches a maximum value (60 % for the test coil). This maximum value is an intrinsic characteristics for a fabricated coil, which only depends on the coil’s geometry structure. With a same usage of REBCO tapes, the trapping factor can be improved significantly by optimizing the coil structure to multiple pancakes, and it can approach 100 %.
Water quality affects the structure of copepod assemblages along the Sfax southern coast (Tunisia, southern Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Drira Zaher , Kmiha-Megdiche Salma , Sahnoun Houda , Pagano Marc , Tedetti Marc , Ayadi Habib
Published: September 2017

The Sfax southern coast (Gulf of Gabes, Mediterranean Sea) has been under increased anthropogenic pressure for many years. In the present study we investigated the effects of this anthropisation on the spatial distribution of copepod assemblages in relation to the physicochemical features of seawater at 20 stations sampled on 19 March 2013. Copepods represented 73% of total zooplankton abundance. Small planktonic copepods (<1.45mm), including pollution-tolerant species (e.g. Oithona nana, Paracalanus parvus, Harpacticus littoralis and Tisbe battagliai), proliferated exclusively in stations of ~0.5-m depth characterised by high coastal anthropogenic inputs. The largest copepod species were dominated by Calanus helgolandicus (1.45–2.5mm) in the offshore zone in depths of ~3m. Substantial numbers of Oithona plumifera (7.5%) were found at depths between 0.5 and 3m. Copepod diversity was significantly higher in the southern zone, which is less affected by sewage, than in the northern zone, which was subjected to higher pressure (Shannon–Wiener index H′=1.5–2.5 and ≤1.5 bits individual–1). A shift in the planktonic copepod community between the two zones was linked to deterioration of water quality, with higher phosphorus levels, turbidity and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in the northern zone.
L’interface geste-signe dans l’acquisition du langage
Authors: Guidetti Michèle , Morgenstern Aliyah
Published: September 2017

L'objectif de ce numéro spécial est de présenter et de poursuivre les discussions et les échanges de points de vue à la fois théoriques et méthodologiques amorcés lors de l'atelier du GDR ADYLOC (GDR CNRS 3195) sur les liens entre gestes et signes qui s’est tenu à Paris les 4 et 5 Avril 2014. Ce Groupe de Recherche « Langues, langage oral et cognition : acquisition et dysfonctionnements » a rassemblé à l’initiative et autour de Maya Hickmann entre 2009 et 2015 bon nombre de spécialistes français de ces questions. Il a constitué un lieu propice aux discussions et échanges scientifiques permettant de faire émerger de nouveaux questionnements, perspectives et projets de recherche.
Night-exposure to noise induces hearing loss more than day exposure
Authors: Tharwat Adel , Abo El-Naga Heba Abd El-Rehem , Zien Ahmed Mahmoud , Abdel-Wahab Yasmien , Sanyelbhaa Hossam
Published: September 2017

Objective:

It was reported that exposure to high noise levels at night would induce more hearing loss in mice than exposure in the day. The present study aims to test this finding in human.

Materials and methods:

Eighty-four subjects were included in this study. They were males, working at textile factories. According to the type of working shifts of the workers, the study group was subdivided into two equal groups; (i) Day group: including those who worked only in day shifts through all of their employment, (ii) Day and night group: including those who worked in alternating shifts; day shift for a week followed by night shift for another week.

Results:

The day and night group had significantly higher (worse) thresholds at frequencies 3, 4, 6 kHz. Fourteen subjects (17%) in the present study had bilateral normal hearing sensitivity; 12 subjects (14%) in the day group and 2 subjects (2%) in the Day and night group.

Conclusions:

Alternating night and day noise exposure proved to be more insulting to the cochlea and resulted in a more pronounced hearing loss when compared to day only-noise exposure.
Key comparison BIPM.RI(I)-K3 of the air-kerma standards of the NIM, China and the BIPM in medium-energy x-rays
Authors: Burns D T , Kessler C , Jinjie Wu , Peiwei Wang
Published: September 2017

A key comparison has been made between the air-kerma standards of the NIM, Republic of China and the BIPM in the medium-energy x ray range. The results show the standards to be in agreement at around the level of the expanded uncertainty (k = 2) of the comparison of 6.0 parts in 103. The results are analysed and presented in terms of degrees of equivalence, suitable for entry in the BIPM key comparison database.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCRI, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Ownership Restrictions and Farmland Values: Evidence from the 2003 Saskatchewan Farm Security Act Amendment
Authors: Lawley Chad
Published: September 2017

An underlying issue in discussions of farmland ownership restrictions is their impact on farmland values and on land acquisition costs for local farmers. In this article, I examine the farmland value consequences of relaxing a particularly stringent farmland ownership restriction in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan. The Saskatchewan Farm Security Act was introduced in 1974 and prohibited non‐Saskatchewan residents and corporations from owning Saskatchewan farmland. In 2003, the act was amended to allow Canadian residents and Canadian corporations to acquire farmland, bringing Saskatchewan in line with neighboring provinces and states that restrict foreign ownership but are open to domestic ownership. I estimate the impact of the 2003 amendment on Saskatchewan farmland values using 1995 through 2010 parcel‐level farmland transactions in Saskatchewan and its neighboring province of Manitoba. The impact of the 2003 amendment is assessed in a series of econometric models that use differential trends in farmland prices in the two provinces before and after the amendment. I find that the 2003 amendment led to a 1.9% to 3.1% per year increase in Saskatchewan farmland values.
The systematic analysis of ultraconserved genomic regions in the budding yeast
Authors: Yang Zhi-Kai , Gao Feng
Published: September 2017

Motivation

In the evolution of species, a kind of special sequences, termed ultraconserved sequences (UCSs), have been inherited without any change, which strongly suggests those sequences should be crucial for the species to survive or adapt to the environment. However, the UCSs are still regarded as mysterious genetic sequences so far. Here, we present a systematic study of ultraconserved genomic regions in the budding yeast based on the publicly available genome sequences, in order to reveal their relationship with the adaptability or fitness advantages of the budding yeast.

Results

Our results indicate that, in addition to some fundamental biological functions, the UCSs play an important role in the adaptation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to the acidic environment, which is backed up by the previous observation. Besides that, we also find the highly unchanged genes are enriched in some other pathways, such as the nutrient-sensitive signaling pathway. To facilitate the investigation of unique UCSs, the UCSC Genome Browser was utilized to visualize the chromosomal position and related annotations of UCSs in S.cerevisiae genome.

Availability and implementation

For more details on UCSs, please refer to the Supplementary information online, and the custom code is available on request.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Fast, robust and non-convex subspace recovery
Authors: Lerman Gilad , Maunu Tyler
Published: September 2017

This work presents a fast and non-convex algorithm for robust subspace recovery. The datasets considered include inliers drawn around a low-dimensional subspace of a higher dimensional ambient space and a possibly large portion of outliers that do not lie nearby this subspace. The proposed algorithm, which we refer to as fast median subspace (FMS), is designed to robustly determine the underlying subspace of such datasets, while having lower computational complexity than existing accurate methods. We prove convergence of the FMS iterates to a stationary point. Further, under two special models of data, FMS converges to a point which is near to the global minimum with overwhelming probability. Under these models, we show that the iteration complexity is globally sublinear and locally $r$-linear. For one of the models, these results hold for any fixed fraction of outliers (< 1). Numerical experiments on synthetic and real data demonstrate its competitive speed and accuracy.
Risks of Ruxolitinib in STAT1 Gain-of-Function-Associated Severe Fungal Disease
Authors: Zimmerman Ofer , Rösler Berenice , Zerbe Christa S , Rosen Lindsey B , Hsu Amy P , Uzel Gulbu , Freeman Alexandra F , Sampaio Elizabeth P , Rosenzweig Sergio D , Kuehn Hye Sun , Kim Tiffany , Brooks Kristina M , Kumar Parag , Wang Xiaowen , Netea Mihai G , van de Veerdonk Frank L , Holland Steven M
Published: September 2017

Heterozygous STAT1 gain-of-function (GOF) mutations are associated with chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis and a broad spectrum of infectious, inflammatory, and vascular manifestations. We describe therapeutic failures with the Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor ruxolitinib in 2 STAT1 GOF patients with severe invasive or cutaneous fungal infections.
Quality Parameters and Rheological Dough Properties of 15 Spelt (Triticum spelta L.) Varieties Cultivated Today
Authors: Wiwart Marian , Szafrańska Anna , Wachowska Urszula , Suchowilska Elżbieta
Published: September 2017

Spelt grain has high nutritional value, but the rheological properties of dough made from spelt flour remain insufficiently investigated. Most studies have focused on comparing various breeding lines and accessions of spelt with selected conventional varieties. The aim of this study was to analyze the rheological properties of dough made from the flour of 14 winter and one spring spelt varieties cultivated today compared with two reference varieties of common wheat. The analyses were performed by the Mixolab test. In comparison with common wheat, spelt varieties were characterized by significantly lower values of the gluten index (16–42 versus 87%), Zeleny index (23–28 versus 46 cm3), and kernel vitreousness (5–35 versus 51%). Doughs produced from spelt and common wheat flour differed significantly it their rheological properties. Mixolab profiles demonstrated significant variations in the values of the retrogradation index (2–8), amylase index (1–8), water absorption index (0–6), and gluten+ index (1–7) across the tested spelt varieties. Principal component analysis revealed that all six Mixolab indicators strongly discriminated wheat and spelt varieties. The results clearly indicate that some modern varieties of spelt have high breadmaking potential. They are also characterized by relatively high variation in the analyzed technological properties of grain and flour.
Nodular Vasculitis in a Patient With Crohn's Disease on Vedolizumab
Authors: Pouldar Delila , Elsensohn Ashley , Ortenzio Francesca , Shiu Jessica , McLeod Michael , de Feraudy Sébastien
Published: September 2017

Erythema induratum (EI), or nodular vasculitis (NV), is a type of panniculitis that is often associated with vasculitis affecting various-sized veins, venules, and arteries in reaction to various causative factors. Historically, EI was highly linked to tuberculosis, but in 1946, Montgomery first proposed the term NV to describe cases of EI not associated with tuberculosis. Only 2 reports of NV associated with inflammatory bowel disease have been reported in the literature. The authors report a 60-year-old woman with Crohn's disease presenting with exacerbation of NV in the setting of vedolizumab therapy.
Body iodine status in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Arslanca Tufan , Korkmaz Vakkas , Arslanca Seyma B. , Karadag Burak , Ergün Yusuf
Published: September 2017

Objective:

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a frequent cause of morbidity and can negatively impact life expectancy; iodine is an essential element for bone mineralization, and iodine deficiency is frequently observed. The aim of the present study was to understand the connection between postmenopausal osteoporosis and the level of iodine in the body.

Methods:

A total of 132 participants were divided into three groups: group 1 consisted of healthy postmenopausal women (n = 34), group 2 comprised osteopenic women (n = 38), and group 3 included women with postmenopausal osteoporosis (n = 60). The three groups were compared according to demographic, clinical, and laboratory findings.

Results:

The urinary iodine levels were recorded as 216.1 ± 125.2 in the control group, 154.6 ± 76.6 in the osteopenic group, and 137.5 ± 64.9 in the postmenopausal osteoporosis group (P < 0.001). These differences were maintained after adjustment for body mass index (P < 0.001). The urinary iodine level accurately correlated with the total T-score for the lumbar spine (r = 0.236, P = 0.008). Multiple regression analysis showed that corrected for body mass index, alkaline phosphatase isoenzyme, and urinary deoxypyridinoline, the urinary iodine level was significantly associated with total T-score (beta coefficient = 0.270, P = 0.006).

Conclusions:

The urinary iodine level was significantly lower in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis, and iodine replacement may be important in preventing osteoporosis in areas where iodine deficiency is endemic.
Visualization of Skin Perfusion by Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Angiography—A Feasibility Study
Authors: Steinbacher Johannes , Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Meng Stefan , Hamscha Ulrike M. , Chan Chun-Sheng , Weninger Wolfgang J. , Wu Chieh-Tsai , Cheng Ming-Huei , Tzou Chieh-Han John
Published: September 2017

Plastic and reconstructive surgery relies on the knowledge of angiosomes in the raising of microsurgical flaps. Growing interest in muscle-sparing perforator flaps calls for reliable methods to assess the clinical feasibility of new donor sites in anatomical studies. Several injection techniques are known for the evaluation of vascular territories. Indocyanine green–based fluorescence angiography has found wide application in the clinical assessment of tissue perfusion. In this article, the use of indocyanine green–based fluorescence angiography for the assessment of perforasomes in anatomical studies is described for the first time.
Scar Tissue Causing Saphenous Nerve Entrapment: Percutaneous Scar Release and Fat Grafting
Authors: Ulloa Martin , Coronel Banda Mauricio
Published: September 2017

Painful neuropathies can be caused by nerve compression or neuromas. Nerve compressions can arise from scar adhesions causing painful posttraumatic entrapment of nerve branches via fibrosis. The classical treatment methods include neurolysis and nerve transposition. In this case, we present the treatment of recurrent scar entrapment of the saphenous nerve with percutaneous neurolysis and lipofilling in a patient who had previously undergone an open neurolysis procedure. Resolution of the condition without any complications was noted during the 2-month clinical follow-up. Percutaneous neurolysis and lipofilling are shown to be safe and reproducible methods for the treatment of neuropathic compressive scars.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Inhibits Reperfusion-Induced Neutrophil Polarization and Adhesion Via Plasmin-Mediated VEGF Release
Authors: Francis Ashish , Kleban Shawna R. , Stephenson Linda L. , Murphy Patrick S. , Letourneau Peter R. , Fang Xin-Hua , Wang Wei Z. , Baynosa Richard C.
Published: September 2017

Background:

Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury is seen in many settings such as free flap salvage and limb replantation/revascularization. The consequences—partial/total flap loss, functional muscle loss, or amputation—can be devastating. Of the treatment options available for IR injury, hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) is the most beneficial. HBO inhibits neutrophil-endothelial adhesion through interference of CD18 neutrophil polarization in IR, a process mediated by nitric oxide. The purposes of this study were to examine the involvement of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the beneficial HBO effect on CD18 polarization and neutrophil adhesion and investigate the effect of plasmin on VEGF expression in skeletal muscle following IR injury.

Methods:

A rat gracilis muscle model of IR injury was used to evaluate the effect of VEGF in IR, with and without HBO, on neutrophil CD18 polarization and adhesion in vivo and ex vivo. Furthermore, we investigated the effects that plasmin has on VEGF expression in gracilis muscle and pulmonary tissue by blocking its activation with alpha-2-antiplasmin.

Results:

HBO treatment following IR injury significantly decreased neutrophil polarization and adhesion ex vivo compared with the IR group. Anti-VEGF reversed the beneficial HBO effect after IR with polarization and adhesion. In vivo adhesion was also increased by anti-VEGF. HBO treatment of IR significantly increased the VEGF protein in both gracilis and pulmonary vasculature. Alpha-2-antiplasmin significantly reversed the HBO-induced increase of VEGF in gracilis muscle.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that HBO inhibits CD18 polarization and neutrophil adhesion in IR injury through a VEGF-mediated pathway involving the extracellular matrix plasminogen system.
Guideline-recommended vs high-dose long-term opioid therapy for chronic noncancer pain is associated with better health outcomes: data from a representative sample of the German population
Authors: Häuser Winfried , Schubert Tino , Scherbaum Norbert , Tölle Thomas
Published: September 2017

Recent evidence-based guidelines for long-term opioid therapy (LTOT) for chronic noncancer pain (CNCP) have defined daily morphine equivalent doses (MEQ/d) that require particular caution. The recommendation for a threshold MEQ/d is based on North American studies that have demonstrated negative health outcomes associated with high-dose LTOT for CNCP. We have conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study using an anonymized German health claims database, including 4,028,618 persons insured by 69 German statutory health insurances, representative of age and sex for the German population in 2014. Those receiving German guideline-recommended opioid treatments (dose <120 mg MEQ/d) for CNCP were compared with those receiving high-dose LTOT (≥120 mg MEQ/d) for selected health outcomes (risky opioid prescribing; hospital admissions due to diagnoses indicative of abuse/addiction of prescribed opioids; and health costs). The prevalence of LTOT for CNCP was 0.8%, with 9.9% receiving high-dose LTOT. Those receiving German guideline-recommended opioid treatments vs those receiving high-dose LTOT differed for the following parameters: risky opioid prescribing (combination with tranquilizers) (11.1% vs 14.3%; P < 0.001), hospital admissions because of mental and behavioral disorders due to alcohol, opioids, tranquilizers, multiple substances and intoxication by narcotic agents (1.6% vs 2.9%; P < 0.001), and total health costs (7259 vs 10,732 Euro; P < 0.001). The difference in annual costs between the 2 groups was largely due to differences in pharmaceutical costs in the outpatient setting (2282 vs 5402 €; P < 0.001). These data confirm recommendations for a threshold MEQ/d for CNCP as recommended by recent opioid prescribing guidelines for CNCP.