bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Area‐efficient and high‐speed hardware structure of hybrid cryptosystem (AES‐RC4) for maximizing key lifetime using parallel subpipeline architecture
Authors: Maniam Senthil Murugan , Sasilatha T.
Published: April 2019

With the growth of wireless environments, confidential communication has become an important part of daily life. Generally, a wireless medium uses cryptography techniques when transmitting data to provide end‐to‐end protection. Most of the hardware‐efficient cryptosystems do not satisfy the security requirements. In this paper, we concentrate both on security issues and hardware efficiency and present an area‐efficient, high‐throughput hardware structure to implement a hybrid cryptosystem to avoid security problems. The security enhancements are done using a key enhancement process, and it is achieved by using a hybrid encryption cryptosystem. In this paper, we combine block and stream cipher encryption algorithms to frame the hybrid algorithm. We consider advanced encryption standard (AES) as the block cipher and Rivest cipher‐4 (RC4) as the stream cipher. Due to the hybrid systems, performance metrics, such as area, throughput, and power consumptions, are affected. Moreover, advanced arithmetic logic (ie, field arithmetic) combined with the on‐the‐fly key expansion technique is used to minimize area consumption, and parallel subpipeline technique is used to enhance the system throughput. The proposed hybrid architecture (AES‐RC4) is implemented in a field‐programmable gate array with a Xilinx tool.
An optimized multi‐attribute vertical handoff approach for heterogeneous wireless networks
Authors: Pradeep M. , Sampath P.
Published: April 2019

Wireless networking is becoming an increasingly important and popular way of providing global information access to users on mobility. Considering the accessibility of different advances, it is hard to choose the best system that guarantees client fulfilment. The best network selection in heterogeneous condition is a primary research issue. In Dynamic Network Selection Function (DNSF) method, which employs physical layer metrics as criteria for network selection, computation of functions‐based relative dynamic weight optimization is proposed. This method is implemented through simulation in a typical heterogeneous wireless environment of Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service (UMTS) and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). The number of unnecessary handover occasions with the Handoff failure rate of the client between accessible systems is utilized as the execution measurements, and constantly best‐associated system is chosen in view of the cost function. It is inferred that DNSF based approach yields ideal system determination in heterogeneous condition.
Development of a new 25plex STRs typing system for forensic application
Authors: Bai Xue , Yao Yiren , Wang Changli , Li Wanshui , Wang Youzheng , Song Wen , Mo Xiaoting , Ma Wenhua , Ye Jian
Published: April 2019

We have developed a novel STR 25‐plex florescence multiplex‐STR kit (DNATyper25) to genotype 23 autosomal and two sex‐linked loci for forensic applications and paternity analysis. Of the 23 autosomal loci, 20 are non‐CODIS. The sex‐linked markers include a Y‐STR locus (DYS391) and the Amelogenin gene. We present developmental validation studies to show that the DNATyper25 kit is reproducible, accurate, sensitive, and robust. Sensitivity testing showed that full profiles were achieved with as low as 125 pg of human DNA. Specificity testing demonstrated a lack of cross reactivity with a variety of commonly encountered non‐human DNA contaminants. Stability testing showed that full profiles were obtained with humic acid concentration ≤60 ng/μL and hematin concentration <400 μM. For forensic evaluation, the 23 autosomal STRs followed the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. In an analysis of 509 Chinese (CN) Hans, we detected a combined total of 181 alleles at the 23 autosomal STR loci. Since these autosomal STRs are independent from one another, PM was 8.4528 × 10−22, TDP was 0.999 999 999 999 999 999 999, CEP was 0.999 999 8395. The forensic efficiency parameters demonstrated that these autosomal STRs are highly polymorphic and informative in the Han population of China. We performed population comparisons and showed that the Northern CN Han has a close genetic relationship with the Luzhou Han, Tujia, and Bai populations. We propose that the DNATyper25 kit will be useful for cases where paternity analysis is difficult and for situations where DNA samples are limited in quantity and low in quality.
Personalized prognostication in head and neck cancer: A systematic review of nomograms according to the AJCC precision medicine core (PMC) criteria
Authors: Tham Tristan , Machado Rosalie , Herman Saori Wendy , Kraus Dennis , Costantino Peter , Roche Ansley
Published: April 2019

Background

The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Precision Medicine Core (PMC) has recognized the need for more personalized probabilistic predictions above the “TNM” staging system and has recently released a checklist of inclusion and exclusion criteria for evaluating prognostic models.

Methods

A systematic review of articles in which nomograms were created for head and neck cancer (HNC) was carried out according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. The AJCC PMC criteria were used to score the individual studies.

Results

Forty‐four studies were included in the final qualitative analysis. The mean number of inclusion criteria met was 9.3 out of 13, and the mean number of exclusion criteria met was 2.1 out of 3. Studies were generally of high quality, but no single study fulfilled all of the AJCC PMC criteria.

Conclusion

This is the first study to utilize the AJCC checklist to comprehensively evaluate the published prognostic nomograms in HNC. Future studies should attempt to adhere to the AJCC PMC criteria. Recommendations for future research are given.

The AJCC recently released a set of criteria to grade the quality of prognostic cancer models. In this study, we grade all published nomograms for head and neck cancer according to the new guidelines.
Exploratory analysis of prognostic factors for lenvatinib in radioiodine‐refractory differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Suzuki Chiaki , Kiyota Naomi , Imamura Yoshinori , Goto Hideaki , Suto Hirotaka , Chayahara Naoko , Toyoda Masanori , Ito Yasuhiro , Miya Akihiro , Miyauchi Akira , Otsuki Naoki , Nibu Ken‐ichi , Minami Hironobu
Published: April 2019

Background

Multitarget kinase inhibitors (m‐TKI), including lenvatinib, are now available as treatment options for radioiodine‐refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RR‐DTC). However, the optimal timing of treatment initiation with m‐TKI in these patients remains to be defined.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 30 consecutive patients with RR‐DTC. The relationship between clinical characteristics was evaluated, including tumor growth parameters at pretreatment/post‐treatment and efficacy of lenvatinib.

Results

A total of 26 patients with RR‐DTC treated with lenvatinib were evaluable for response and eligible for analysis. From the results of multivariate analysis, baseline tumor size and tumor‐related symptoms were independent negative prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS). Pretreatment tumor growth parameters were not prognostic for either PFS or OS.

Conclusions

Patients with RR‐DTC with a high tumor burden and tumor‐related symptoms had significantly worse prognosis. Greater tumor reduction after starting lenvatinib may lead to better prognosis, irrespective of pretreatment high tumor growth rate.
Optoacoustic mesoscopy analysis and quantitative estimation of specific imaging metrics in Fitzpatrick skin phototypes II to V
Authors: Li Xiuting , Dinish U. S , Aguirre Juan , Bi Renzhe , Dev Kapil , Attia Amalina Binte Ebrahim , Nitkunanantharajah Suhanyaa , Lim Qian Han , Schwarz Mathias , Yew Yik Weng , Thng Steven Tien Guan , Ntziachristos Vasilis , Olivo Malini
Published: April 2019

Raster Scanning Optoacoustic Mesoscopy (RSOM) is a novel optoacoustic imaging modality that offers non‐invasive, label‐free, high resolution (~7 μm axial, ~30 μm lateral) imaging up to 1 to 2 mm below the skin, providing novel quantitative insights into skin pathophysiology. As the RSOM image contrast mechanism is based on light absorption, it is expected that the amount of melanin present in the skin will affect RSOM images. However, the effect of skin tone in the performance of RSOM has not been addressed so far. Herein, we present the efficiency of RSOM for in vivo skin imaging of human subjects with Fitzpatrick (FP) skin types between II to V. RSOM images acquired from the volar forearms of the subjects were used to derive metrics used in RSOM studies, such as total blood volume, vessel diameter and melanin signal intensity. Our study shows that the melanin signal intensity derived from the RSOM images exhibited an excellent correlation with that obtained from a clinical colorimeter for the subjects of varying FP skin types. We could successfully estimate the vessel diameter at different depths of the dermis. Furthermore, our study shows that there is a need to compensate for total blood volume calculated for subjects with higher FP skin types due to the lower signal‐to‐noise ratio in dermis, owing to strong absorption of light by melanin. This study sheds light into how RSOM can be used for studying various skin conditions in populations with different skin phenotypes.
Corneal bioprinting utilizing collagen‐based bioinks and primary human keratocytes
Authors: Duarte Campos Daniela F. , Rohde Malena , Ross Mitchell , Anvari Parham , Blaeser Andreas , Vogt Michael , Panfil Claudia , Yam Gary Hin‐Fai , Mehta Jodhbir S. , Fischer Horst , Walter Peter , Fuest Matthias
Published: April 2019

Corneal transplantation is the treatment of choice for patients with advanced corneal diseases. However, the outcome may be affected by graft rejection, high associated costs, surgical expertise, and most importantly the worldwide donor shortage. In recent years, bioprinting has emerged as an alternative method for fabricating tissue equivalents using autologous cells with architecture resembling the native tissue. In this study, we propose a freeform and cell‐friendly drop‐on‐demand bioprinting strategy for creating corneal stromal 3D models as suitable implants. Corneal stromal keratocytes (CSK) were bioprinted in collagen‐based bioinks as 3D biomimetic models and the geometrical outcome as well as the functionality of the bioprinted specimens were evaluated after in vitro culture. We showed that our bioprinting method is feasible to fabricate translucent corneal stromal equivalents with optical properties similar to native corneal stromal tissue, as proved by optical coherence tomography. Moreover, the bioprinted CSK were viable after the bioprinting process and maintained their native keratocyte phenotypes after 7 days in in vitro culture, as shown by immunocytochemistry. The proposed bioprinted human 3D corneal models can potentially be used clinically for patients with corneal stromal diseases.
Sustained‐release of sclerostin single‐chain antibody fragments using poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microspheres for osteoporotic fracture repair
Authors: Li Ming , Li Shifei , Liu Jianheng , Cui Xiang , Zhang Shudong , Zhou Jian , Wang Xiumei , Yao Qi
Published: April 2019

Osteoporotic fracture is one of the most common bone diseases in middle and old age, as the most serious consequence of osteoporosis. Sclerostin single‐chain antibody fragments (SCL‐scFv) have been proven to promote bone formation by binding to scleroprotein, a natural antagonist of the Wnt pathway, but it is difficult to rule alone due to the weak permeability and immunogenicity. Herein, we prepared poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microspheres as a sustained‐release vehicle to prolong the activity of SCL‐scFv. The morphology of microspheres were uniform and nearly sphere, loading efficiency and encapsulation efficiency of SCL‐scFv microspheres were 6.28 ± 1.04% and 48.37 ± 8.11%, respectively. Approximately 90% of the SCL‐scFvs were released from the microspheres over 28 days with initial burst releasing (38%) in the first 4 days. Sustained‐release of active SCL‐scFv from microspheres promoted bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells osteogenic differentiation in vitro and enhanced fracture healing in ovariectomized rats by improving bone mass and bone formation in the fracture region. All these findings demonstrate that the microspheres are able to simultaneously achieve localized long‐term SCL‐scFv controlled release and effectively promote bone formation, which provides a promising approach for osteoporotic fracture.
Porous carbon nanospheres with moderately oriented domains for EDLC electrode
Authors: Meng Xiao , Chang Pan‐pan , Zhang Ji‐zong , Wang Cheng‐yang , Chen Ming‐ming
Published: April 2019

Porous carbon nanospheres with moderately oriented microcrystalline structures were prepared via a relatively simple synthetic route in this article. CTAB acted as a structure‐directing agent to induce small sulfonated pitch (SP) pieces to assemble orderly. By this means, the formation of carbon nanospheres was simultaneous with the moderate orientation of carbon microcrystalline without additional process. Owing to the moderately oriented microcrystalline structures, the resultant sample CNS3 possessed a high e‐conductivity of 62.5 S/m. When used as an electrode material for EDLCs, it showed excellent electrochemical properties even without any conductive agent. In an organic electrolyte, the resultant sample CNS3 possessed a high specific capacitance of 155 F/g at 20 A/g and outstanding cycle life with 94.2% capacity retention after 10,000 cycles. This work puts forward a novel design for carbon nanospheres with moderately oriented domains by a simple and energy‐efficient means.
Phylogenetic interrelationships of the eel families Derichthyidae and Colocongridae (Elopomorpha: Anguilliformes) based on the pectoral skeleton
Authors: da Silva João Paulo C. B. , Datovo Aléssio , Johnson G. David
Published: April 2019

A cladistic analysis of the eel families Derichthyidae and Colocongridae is herein proposed for the first time on the basis of morphological data. We discovered dozens of new phylogenetic characters derived from a detailed analysis of the pectoral skeleton, an anatomical system neglected by most previous studies. Our maximum parsimony analysis indicates that Colocongridae sensu lato is paraphyletic, with its two constituent genera Coloconger and Congriscus appearing as successive sister groups of derichthyids. Monophyly of the family Derichthyidae, which has been questioned by some studies, is herein strongly supported by 10 unambiguous synapomorphies. We also stress the importance of the appendicular skeleton as a useful source of phylogenetic information for the resolution of systematic problems within Anguilliformes.
Three‐phase hollow‐fiber liquid‐phase microextraction based on deep eutectic solvent as acceptor phase for extraction and preconcentration of main active compounds in a traditional Chinese medicinal formula
Authors: Xue Jiao , Wang Run‐qin , Chen Xuan , Hu Shuang , Bai Xiao‐hong
Published: April 2019

A three‐phase hollow‐fiber liquid‐phase microextraction based on deep eutectic solvent as acceptor phase was developed and coupled with high‐performance capillary electrophoresis for the simultaneous extraction, enrichment, and determination of main active compounds (hesperidin, honokiol, shikonin, magnolol, emodin, and β,β′‐dimethylacrylshikonin) in a traditional Chinese medicinal formula. In this procedure, two hollow fibers, impregnated with n‐heptanol/n‐nonanol (7:3, v/v) mixture in wall pores as the extraction phase and a combination (9:1, v/v) of methyltrioctylammonium chloride/glycerol (1:3, n/n) and methanol in lumen as the acceptor phase, were immersed in the aqueous sample phase. The target analytes in the sample solution were first extracted through the organic phase, and further back‐extracted to the acceptor phase during the stirring process. Important extraction parameters such as types and composition of extraction solvent and deep eutectic solvent, sample phase pH, stirring rate, and extraction time were investigated and optimized. Under the optimal conditions, detection limits were 0.3–0.8 ng/mL with enrichment factors of 6–114 for the analytes and linearities of 0.001–13 μg/mL (r2 ≥ 0.9901). The developed method was successfully applied to the simultaneous extraction and concentration of the main active compounds in a formula of Zi‐Cao‐Cheng‐Qi decoction with the major advantages of convenience, effectiveness, and environmentally friendliness.
Molecular profile of tongue cancer in an 18‐year‐old female patient with no recognizable risk factor
Authors: Ambele Melvin A. , Pepper Michael S. , van Heerden Marlene B. , van Heerden Willie F. P.
Published: April 2019

Background

The occurrence of oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) in nonsmoking young adults, especially females, has increased. Yet, there is no clear evidence to support the existence of any single determinant. This case reports the presence of TSCC in an 18‐year‐old female with no recognizable risk factor for oral cancer development.

Methods

Histological examination and p16 immunohistochemistry were performed. Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded sections were prepared from resected tissue and DNA was extracted for molecular OncoScan analysis.

Results

Histological and immunochemical analysis showed a p16‐negative poorly differentiated keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma. OncoScan analysis of this tumor revealed a high confidence TP53:p.R213*:c.637C>T somatic mutation as well as copy number alterations of chromosomal regions including gains of 1p, 3q, 5p, 7p, 8p, 8q, 11q, 15q, 17q, and 20p, and losses on 1p, 3p, 18q, and 22q.

Conclusion

The TP53:p.R213*:c.637C>T mutation detected is indicative of a genetic predisposition to cancer and it is the first to be reported in TSCC in a nonsmoking young adult.

Level of Evidence

Case report
Performance of revised STO(1M)‐3G basis set for prediction of 5‐fluorocytosine chemical shifts
Authors: Kupka Teobald , Mnich Adrianna , Broda Małgorzata A.
Published: April 2019

Nuclear shieldings and chemical shifts of 5‐fluorocytosine (5FC) were predicted in the gas phase and DMSO solution modeled by polarizable continuum model using B3LYP density functional and revised STO(1M)‐3G basis set. For comparison, eight arbitrary selected basis sets including STO‐3G and medium‐size Pople‐type and larger dedicated Jensen‐type ones were applied. The former basis sets were significantly smaller, but the calculated structural parameters, harmonic vibrational frequencies, were very accurate and close to those obtained with larger, polarization‐consistent ones. The predicted 13C and 1H chemical shieldings of 5FC and cytosine, selected as parent molecule, were acceptable (root mean square for 13C chemical shifts in DMSO of about 5 ppm and less) though less accurate than those calculated with large basis sets, dedicated for prediction of nuclear magnetic resonance parameters.
Describing Fine-Scale Patterns of Genetic Structure and Introgression of Redband Trout in a Complex River System
Authors: Bohling Justin H. , Starcevich Steven J. , Von Bargen Jennifer , Bailey Elizabeth J.
Published: April 2019

The conservation status of Redband Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri has been an increasing concern of fish managers. Effective fish management first requires an understanding of the spatial distribution of distinct populations and the processes influencing gene flow. We performed a genetic analysis of Redband Trout from the Deschutes River basin in central Oregon to discern population genetic structure and the genetic impacts of an extensive hatchery stocking program and several potential barriers to dispersal. Conducting surveys in lateral habitats, we sampled over 1,400 young-of-the-year Redband Trout and genotyped them at a panel of 269 SNPs using genotyping-in-thousands by sequencing. We found that within this section of the Deschutes River basin there were multiple distinct genetic groups of Redband Trout, with an irrigation diversion dam and only one of eight waterfalls in the study area acting as complete barriers to gene flow. Within these distinct genetic groups there was a strong signal of isolation by distance. Despite the extensive stocking of large numbers out-of-basin hatchery Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss, our results indicated that introgression of wild fish occurred only with a locally derived hatchery strain of Redband Trout. Hatchery influence was greatest in Fall River and in neighboring portions of the Deschutes River. The combination of spatially explicit sampling in lateral habitat with genotyping via high-throughput sequencing provided an effective sampling design for this large river and its tributaries. Such an approach may be useful elsewhere for identifying genetic management units of Redband Trout and other widespread freshwater fishes.
Design of dissipative multimaterial viscoelastic‐hyperelastic systems at finite strains via topology optimization
Authors: Zhang Guodong , Khandelwal Kapil
Published: April 2019

This study focuses on the topology optimization framework for the design of multimaterial dissipative systems at finite strains. The overall goal is to combine a soft viscoelastic material with a stiff hyperelastic material for realizing optimal structural designs with tailored damping and stiffness characteristics. To this end, several challenges associated with incorporating finite‐deformation viscoelastic‐hyperelastic materials in a multimaterial design framework are addressed. This includes consideration of a thermodynamically consistent finite‐strain viscoelasticity model for simulating energy dissipation together with F‐bar finite elements for handling material incompressibility. Moreover, an effective multimaterial interpolation scheme is proposed, which preserves the physics of material mixtures in the context of density‐based topology optimization. A numerically accurate analytical design sensitivity calculation is also presented using a path‐dependent adjoint method. Furthermore, both prescribed‐load and prescribed‐displacement boundary conditions are considered in the optimization formulations, together with various strategies for controlling stiffness. As demonstrated by the numerical examples, the use of the stiffer hyperelastic material phase in a design not only improves stiffness but also increases energy dissipation capacity. Moreover, with the finite‐deformation theory, the effect of the loading magnitude on the optimized designs can be observed.
Porous organosilicone modified gelatin hybrids with controllable and homogeneous in vitro degradation behaviors for potential application as skin regeneration scaffold
Authors: Du Weining , Zhang Zetian , Gao Wenwei , Li Zhengjun
Published: April 2019

This work aims at investigating intensively the effects of organosilicone species and their dosage on the physicochemical and particularly the in vitro degradation properties of gelatin hybrids. We prepared various porous organosilicone modified gelatin hybrids with epoxy‐polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and/or glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GPTMS) and further systematically investigated their degradation behaviors in simulated physiological environments. It was found that the chemical composition, thermal stability, crosslinking degree, mechanical properties and porous structure of the gelatin hybrids could be tuned by adjusting the amount of PDMS and GPTMS. More importantly, degradation rates of the gelatin hybrids were reduced with increasing content of GPTMS, implying that the degradation behaviors could be controlled by tailoring the chemical interaction between the gelatin and organosilicone moieties. In addition, gelatin hybrids modified with both PDMS and GPTMS (PGs‐GE) were demonstrated as a homogeneous hybridization, and their maximum weight losses met the typical healing period of a normal skin wound. Noticeably, the P1G1‐GE hybrid with PDMS to GPTMS molar ratio 1:1 exhibited appropriate weight loss, integrity of pore structure and synchronous dissolution of silicon and protein during the degradation process, indicating a homogeneous degradation behavior. Furthermore, both the original and degraded P1G1‐GE hybrid exhibited favorable cytocompatibility in vitro. The findings will be helpful for further insight into the in vivo degradation of gelatin hybrids, suggesting their potential application as skin regeneration scaffolds. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Entropic death of nonpatterned and nanopatterned polyelectrolyte brushes
Authors: Menzel Matthias , Chen Wei‐Liang , Simancas Kimberly , Xu Hong , Prucker Oswald , Ober Christopher K. , Rühe Jürgen
Published: April 2019

The stability of nonpatterned and nanopatterned strong polyelectrolyte brushes (PEBs) is studied as a function of both brush character and the properties of a contacting liquid. High‐molecular‐weight PEBs of poly(4‐methyl vinylpyridinium iodide) (PMeVP) are synthesized using surface‐initiated radical‐chain polymerization. Nanopatterned brushes (NPBs) line with pattern sizes ranging from 50 to 200 nm are generated by patterning the initiator layer using deep‐ultraviolet photolithography followed by brush growth initiated from the patterned layer. Homogeneous PEBs with different degrees of charging and grafting densities are exposed to water and salt solutions with different temperatures for different periods. The degradation is monitored through dry‐state ellipsometry and atomic force microscopy measurements. Enhanced degrafting for more strongly swollen polymer brushes can be observed in agreement with an “entropic spring” model. Based on the results of the nonpatterned brushes, the NPBs are exposed to water at different temperatures and external salt content for varying periods of time. Counterintuitively, the NPBs show increased degrafting for smaller patterns, which is attributed to different polymer chain dynamics for nanobrushes and microbrushes. We investigate the influence of thermodynamic and kinetic parameters on the stability of (nanopatterned) PEBs and discuss the role of entanglements and formation of complexes in such films. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1283–1295
Lung function, exercise tolerance, and physical growth of children with congenital lung malformations at 8 years of age
Authors: Hijkoop Annelieke , van Schoonhoven Marloes M. , van Rosmalen Joost , Tibboel Dick , van der Cammen‐van Zijp Monique H. M. , Pijnenburg Mariëlle W. , Cohen‐Overbeek Titia E. , Schnater Johannes M. , IJsselstijn Hanneke
Published: April 2019

Objective

To improve counseling on congenital lung malformations (CLM) by describing long‐term outcomes of children either operated on or managed by observation.

Study design

We analyzed lung function (spirometry), exercise tolerance (Bruce treadmill), and physical growth of 8‐year‐old children with CLM who participated in our longitudinal prospective follow‐up program. The data are shown as median standard deviation scores (SDS) with IQR, or estimated marginal means (95% CI) on the basis of general linear models.

Results

Twenty‐nine (48%) of the 61 children had required surgery at a median age of 108 (IQR: 8‐828) days, and 32 (52%) were managed by observation. In the surgery group, all lung function measurements (except for forced vital capacity [FVC]) were significantly below 0 SDS, with median FEV1 −1.07 (IQR: −1.70 to −0.56), FEV1/FVC −1.49 (−2.62 to −0.33), and FEF25%‐75% −1.95 (−2.57 to −0.63) (all P < 0.001). Children in the observation group had normal FEV1 and FVC, whereas FEV1/FVC (−0.81 (−1.65 to −0.14)) and FEF25%‐75% (−1.14 (−1.71 to −0.22)) were significantly below 0 SDS (both P < 0.001). Mean exercise tolerance was significantly below 0 SDS in both groups (observation: −0.85 (95% CI: −1.30 to −0.41); surgery: −1.25 (−1.69 to −0.80)); eight (28%) children in the observation group and ten (40%) in the surgery group scored <−1 SDS. Physical growth was normal in both groups.

Conclusion

Children with CLM may be at risk for reduced lung function and exercise tolerance, especially those who required surgery. As little pulmonary morbidity was found in children with asymptomatic CLM, this study supports a watchful waiting approach in this group.
Selective Synthesis of Magnetite Nanospheres with Controllable Morphologies on CNTs and Application to Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Li Yunhui , Chen Xuecheng , Kierzek Krzystof , Shi Xiaoze , Chu Paul K. , Tang Tao , Mijowska Ewa
Published: April 2019

Iron oxide is widely used in many areas due to its environmental friendliness, low cost, as well as unique intrinsic properties and the morphology is one of the important parameters determining the physical properties. In this work, Fe3O4 nanospheres with different morphologies are synthesized on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) hydrothermally and by controlling the reaction conditions, solid, porous, and hollow Fe3O4 nanospheres are conjugated with CNTs selectively and the three different structures are investigated as anode materials in lithium‐ion batteries. The morphology of Fe3O4 is found to have a profound effect on the electrochemical performance of the lithium‐ion batteries under the same operating conditions. At high current densities, the hollow Fe3O4‐CNT delivers the best electrochemical performance but at low current densities, the solid Fe3O4‐CNT fares the best. The results provide insights into the design of high‐efficiency anode materials in lithium‐ion batteries.
Highly Miniaturized MEMS‐Based Test Platforms for Thermo‐Mechanical and Reliability Characterization of Nano‐Functional Elements − Technology and Functional Test Results
Authors: Meszmer Peter , Hahn Susann , Hiller Karla , Wunderle Bernhard
Published: April 2019

This paper reports on concepts, technology, integration aspects, and results of a MEMS‐based test platform for reliability tests of micro and nano objects. Building blocks of this platform to be used in in‐plane push‐pull‐configurations are a thermal actuator, a force sensor, and a displacement sensor as well as several types of samples to be integrated directly or indirectly. The technology concept is proven for aluminum wires as a first demonstrator for an integrated specimen. The modular concept enables the adoption of the platform for further types of samples and test configurations. The building blocks are simulated using a Finite‐Element approach and the results are compared to experimentally obtained data sets. According to the specifications, the thermal actuator is capable of providing displacements up to 1.5 μm. The displacement and the force sensor are specified to provide sensitivities of 3 fF nm−1 and 2.5 μV nN−1, respectively. SEM image of a piezoresistive force sensor attached to an integrated Al wire as test sample − building blocks of MEMS‐based test platforms.
Extraction of Intrinsic Properties of the Accumulation Channel in an Organic Field‐Effect Transistor
Authors: Govor Leonid V. , Parisi Jürgen
Published: April 2019

An organic field‐effect transistor based on a squaraine fiber is studied, where the electric conductance values of the bulk and accumulation channel are comparable. The measured current–voltage characteristics are decomposed into two components, one representing the bulk and the other the accumulation channel. For small gate voltage (Vg), the output characteristics of the channel are described as a superposition of the Ohmic, space‐charge‐limited current, and trap‐filled‐limited (TFL) conduction mechanisms. The traps near the source are filled with electrons injected from source via the source‐gate electric field, but the traps near the drain could be filled only with the source‐drain electric field (Vd). The higher the gate voltage, the larger is the density of electrons injected from the source into the accumulation channel, the larger the density of free electrons, the larger the density of the trapped electrons, and the larger the drain voltage up to which the modified Child's law exists. θ is the fraction of the free electrons. For large voltage Vg, all traps are filled with the source‐gate electric field, and, as a result, only Ohm's and Child's laws () are observed. The electron mobility in the accumulation channel features a linear dependence on the gate voltage.
Interfacial Interactions and Enhanced Optoelectronic Properties in CsSnI3–Black Phosphorus van der Waals Heterostructures
Authors: Yang Du‐Juan , Du Yuan‐Hao , Zhao Yu‐Qing , Yu Zhuo‐Liang , Cai Meng‐Qiu
Published: April 2019

Vertical Van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures, characterized by two‐dimensional materials and halide perovskites, have drawn extensive attention to differences in novel optoelectronic properties for isolated materials. In this paper, the structural, electronic, and optical properties of vdW heterostructures based on γ‐CsSnI3 and black phosphorus (BP) monolayers are investigated using first‐principle calculations. The calculated results show that the I–Cs are investigated interface heterostructure contacting the BP monolayer has a type‐I band alignment, while the I–Sn interface contacting the BP monolayer heterostructure has a type‐II alignment. In addition, CsSnI3–BP heterostructures show superior optical performance compared to CsSnI3 slabs in visible and ultraviolet spectra. This surprising result is traced to the smaller bandgap of heterostructures compared to that of isolated structures, as well as the inner electric field caused by the potential across the interface, which produces a charge redistribution at the interface and a separation of electron–hole pairs. This work offers a new view to shed light on the interface charge transfer mechanism for hybrid heterostructures with enhanced optical absorption. Therefore, a bandgap‐tunable inorganic perovskite may be attractive for optoelectric applications.
Time‐Dependent Density Functional Theory for Fermionic Superfluids: From Cold Atomic Gases − To Nuclei and Neutron Stars Crust
Authors: Bulgac Aurel
Published: April 2019

In cold atoms and in the crust of neutron stars, the pairing gap can reach values comparable with the Fermi energy. While in nuclei the neutron gap is smaller, it is still of the order of a few percent of the Fermi energy. The pairing mechanism in these systems is due to short range attractive interactions between fermions and the size of the Cooper pair is either comparable to the inter‐particle separation or it can be as big as a nucleus, which is still relatively small in size. Such a strong pairing gap is the result of the superposition of a very large number of particle–particle configurations, which contribute to the formation of the Cooper pairs. These systems have been shown to be the host of a large number of remarkable phenomena, in which the large magnitude of the pairing gap plays an essential role: quantum shock waves, quantum turbulence, Anderson–Bogoliubov–Higgs mode, vortex rings, domain walls, soliton vortices, vortex pinning in neutron star crust, unexpected dynamics of fragmented condensates and role of pairing correlations in collisions on heavy‐ions, Larkin–Ovchinnikov phase as an example of a Fermi supersolid, role of pairing correlations in controlling the dynamics of fissioning nuclei.
Diagrammatic Expansion for Positive Spectral Functions in the Steady‐State Limit
Authors: Hyrkäs Markku , Karlsson Daniel , van Leeuwen Robert
Published: April 2019

Recently, a method was presented for constructing self‐energies within many‐body perturbation theory that is guaranteed to produce a positive spectral function for equilibrium systems, by representing the self‐energy as a product of half‐diagrams on the forward and backward branches of the Keldysh contour [Phys. Rev. B 2014, 90, 115134]. An alternative half‐diagram representation that is based on products of retarded diagrams is derived here. This approach extends the method to systems out of equilibrium. When a steady‐state limit exists, it is shown that our approach yields a positive definite spectral function in the frequency domain.
Li2NbO3–Li2MnO3 Pseudo‐Binary Compounds Crystallizing into Distorted Rocksalt Structures
Authors: Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Shimoda Keiji , Okazaki Ken‐ichi , Ishikawa Yoshihisa , Yonemura Masao , Ukyo Yoshio , Fukunaga Toshiharu , Matsubara Eiichiro
Published: April 2019

Li2(NbxMn1–x)O3 is one of the Li‐rich, Mn‐based cathode materials represented by the structural prototype Li2MnO3. Many of these cathode materials crystallize into monoclinic structures; however, our neutron and X‐ray structural analyses revealed that the Li2(NbxMn1–x)O3 compounds adopt NaCl‐type cubic structures in a wide compositional range, at least between x = 5 at.% and x = 50 at.%. In these NaCl‐type structures, Na sites are randomly occupied by the three kinds of metal cations and the Cl sites are solely occupied by O2− anions. These cubic crystals comprise distorted atomic arrangements that are randomly displaced from the atomic positions in a regular NaCl‐type structure. Density functional theory calculations based on these distorted NaCl‐type structure models indicate lower total energy than those of the corresponding monoclinic structures. This result demonstrates that the Li2(NbxMn1–x)O3 compounds can crystallize into such NaCl‐type structures to decrease the crystallization energy.
Heavy‐Metal‐Free, Low‐Damping, and Non‐Interface Perpendicular Fe16N2 Thin Film and Magnetoresistance Device
Authors: Li Xuan , Yang Meiyin , Jamali Mahdi , Shi Fengyuan , Kang Shishou , Jiang Yanfeng , Zhang Xiaowei , Li Hongshi , Okatov Sergey , Faleev Sergey , Kalitsov Alan , Yu Guanghua , Voyles Paul M. , Mryasov Oleg N. , Wang Jian‐Ping
Published: April 2019

Realization of sub‐10 nm spin‐based logic and memory devices relies on the development of magnetic materials with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy that can provide low switching current and large thermal stability simultaneously. In this work, the authors report on one promising candidate, Fe16N2, a heavy‐metal‐free, non‐interface perpendicular magnetic material and demonstrate a perpendicularly magnetized current‐perpendicular‐to‐plane (CPP) giant magnetoresistance (GMR) device based on Fe16N2. The crystalline‐based perpendicular anisotropy of Fe16N2 in the CPP GMR device is measured to be about 1.9 × 106 J m−3 (1.9 × 107 erg cm−3), which is sufficient to maintain the thermal stability of sub‐10 nm devices. A first principle calculation is performed to support this large magnitude of the perpendicular anisotropy. Moreover, the Gilbert damping constant of the Fe16N2 thin film (α ≈0.01) measured by ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) is lower than for most existing materials with crystalline perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. The non‐interface perpendicular anisotropy and low damping properties of Fe16N2 may offer a pathway for future spintronics logic and memory devices.
Oxygenation‐Induced Two‐Dimensional Topological Insulators in Antimony Arsenide
Authors: Xiao Wen‐Zhi , Xiao Gang , Rong Qing‐Yan , Wang Ling‐Ling
Published: April 2019

This study investigates the stability, electronic structure, and topological property of a fully oxygenated blue‐antimony arsenide system based on first principle calculations. Our results demonstrate that the functionalized system is energetically, dynamically, and mechanically stable. Without the inclusion of spin–orbit coupling (SOC), a semimetal nature is observed with the degenerate valence and conduction bands at the Γ point. The SOC opens a large bulk gap of 252 meV, which makes it possible to work at room temperature. The nontrivial topological feature is confirmed by the Z2 topological invariant Z2 = 1 and the gapless edge states inside the bulk gap. This finding enriches the family of 2D topological insulators, deepens the insight into the quantum Hall effect, and provides some theoretical ideas for preparing high‐speed and dissipationless spintronic devices.
Oxidation energies of shuttle molecules candidates in lithium‐ion batteries from double‐hybrid models
Authors: Alipour Mojtaba
Published: April 2019

As promising candidates for protecting against both overcharge and overdischarge of lithium‐ion batteries, the shuttle molecules should be named. Considering the action mechanism of these molecules, it is turned out that their oxidation energies are important factors. Alongside the experimental efforts, computational chemistry within density functional theory (DFT) can play imperative roles in this respect. In the present contribution, in order to predict the oxidation energies of shuttle molecules the double‐hybrid (DH) approximations from DFT are of concern. In particular, applicability of the recently proposed DHs including parameterized, parameter‐free, and spin‐opposite‐scaled functionals is evaluated for our purpose. With more or less different accountabilities of the DHs under study, it is revealed that from the parameterized and parameter‐free approximations, the B2‐PLYP and Perdew‐Burke‐Ernzerhof (PBE)‐cubic integrand DH (CIDH) functionals, respectively, have the lowest deviations while the SOS0‐PBE0‐DH is the winner against others within the category of spin‐opposite‐scaled DHs. Perusing the role of both nonlocal exchange and correlation contributions in the energy expression of DHs on the predicted oxidation energies unveils that the high fractions of these terms do not guarantee better performance, but an appropriate proportion between the two is needed to achieve a reliable accuracy. Although this study ascertains the efficiency of DHs for describing the oxidation energies of shuttle molecules candidates, we hope that our findings can function as an inspiring avenue to develop novel DH approximations with a broad range of applications in electrochemistry.
Practical Bayesian modeling and inference for massive spatial data sets on modest computing environments†
Authors: Zhang Lu , Datta Abhirup , Banerjee Sudipto
Published: April 2019

With continued advances in Geographic Information Systems and related computational technologies, statisticians are often required to analyze very large spatial data sets. This has generated substantial interest over the last decade, already too vast to be summarized here, in scalable methodologies for analyzing large spatial data sets. Scalable spatial process models have been found especially attractive due to their richness and flexibility and, particularly so in the Bayesian paradigm, due to their presence in hierarchical model settings. However, the vast majority of research articles present in this domain have been geared toward innovative theory or more complex model development. Very limited attention has been accorded to approaches for easily implementable scalable hierarchical models for the practicing scientist or spatial analyst. This article devises massively scalable Bayesian approaches that can rapidly deliver inference on spatial process that are practically indistinguishable from inference obtained using more expensive alternatives. A key emphasis is on implementation within very standard (modest) computing environments (eg, a standard desktop or laptop) using easily available statistical software packages. Key insights are offered regarding assumptions and approximations concerning practical efficiency.
The dynamics of financial instability: simplifying Keen's Goodwin–Minsky model
Authors: Rammelt Crelis F.
Published: April 2019

Market capitalism typically goes through cycles of expansion and contraction. Every now and then, these common economic cycles go off the hinges. They become unstable and can lead to recessions, crises and depressions—phenomena that economists typically explain by looking to exogenous forces. Alternative explanations—mostly Marxian and Keynesian—for the instabilities have been sought within the structure of the economic system itself. One such explanation is provided by Steve Keen in his Goodwin–Minsky model. The model effectively mimics the dynamics of key indicators prior to, during and after the 2007/08 crisis. However, the model is also over‐specified, highly sensitive to initial conditions and therefore more difficult to convey. In line with George Box's plea for parsimony, this paper presents a more straightforward version of Keen's model that remains consistent with its fundamental behaviour. The model also illustrates the potential for further dialogue between Marxian economics and system dynamics.

© 2019 The Author System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society
Alternative Recovery and Valorization of Metals from Exhausted Catalytic Converters in a New Smart Polymetallic Catalyst
Authors: Tieuli Sebastiano , Baldi Franco , Arčon Iztok , Vogel‐Mikuš Katarina , Gallo Michele , Sperni Laura , Piccolo Oreste , Paganelli Stefano
Published: April 2019

A new metals‐polymeric composite, Metx‐EPS (I), was prepared to be used as catalyst in water or in two‐phase aqueous conditions. The metals source was an exhausted catalytic converter that was grinded and treated with an acidic solution at room temperature. After filtration, the solution was concentrated, neutralized and added to a broth of Klebsiella oxytoca DSM 29614 to produce (I) where metals are embedded in a peculiar polysaccharide structure (EPS). The composite was easily recovered from the fermentation broth and purified. The process protocol was verified many times and was shown to be reproducible satisfactorily. The % recovery of metals, originally present in the converter, was good as determined by atomic absorption. The morphology and the chemical state of main metals in (I) were investigated by X‐ray absorption spectroscopy methods (XANES and EXAFS). No metallic alloy seems to be evident. The catalytic activity and a possible synergic effect due to the presence of the different metals was valuated in the hydrogenation of some substrates, valuable precursors for the production of fine chemicals.
Ceria/reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite: Synthesis, Characterization, and Its Lubrication Application
Authors: Min Chunying , He Zengbao , Liu Dengdeng , Jia Wei , Qian Jiamin , Jin Yuhui , Li Songjun
Published: April 2019

Reduced graphene oxide nanosheet decorated with uniform ceria (CeO2) nanoparticles was prepared via a simple hydrothermal method. The anchored CeO2 nanoparticles with diameters of 3.5‐4.5 nm were well distributed on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets. The as‐prepared CeO2/rGO nanocomposites can be highly dispersed into the paraffin oil to form a stable monodisperse solution at the broad temperature range from −7°C to 160°C. The tribological performance of CeO2/rGO nanocomposites as oil lubricant additives was systematically investigated using a MS−T3000 ball‐on‐disk tester. The results indicated that paraffin oil with 5 wt% CeO2/rGO exhibited the best lubrication performance in terms of the lowest friction coefficient and wear rate compared to only GO or CeO2 nanoparticles as lubricant additives. Notably, the base oil filled with CeO2/rGO revealed the excellent tribological properties as friction coefficient and wear rate separately decreased by 15.85% and 76.03%, in comparison with the base paraffin oil. Moreover, optical microscope images of the wear surface of the steel disc as well showed that CeO2/rGO nanocomposites exhibited higher anti‐wear capability than GO nanosheet and CeO2 nanoparticles. The unique tribological properties of CeO2/rGO suggested the synergistic friction reduction and anti‐wear mechanism of rGO nanosheet and CeO2 nanoparticles.
Hip‐Hop Early Literacy in K–1 Classrooms
Authors: Meacham Shuaib James , Meacham Sohyun , Thompson Misty , Graves Hattie
Published: April 2019

The authors employ hip‐hop music as a literacy heuristic aimed at supporting the literacy development of kindergarten and first‐grade students. How do young students learn to write hip‐hop lyrics? How do young students engage in hip‐hop reading and writing processes? The classroom examples show that students engaged in individual and interactive writing practices and a variety of practices associated with music disciplinary literacy. Hip‐hop reading and lyric composition constituted culturally relevant literacy, which connected the students to the literacy practices found in their community and families.