bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What does hand motor function tell us about our aging brain in association with WMH?
Authors: Riaz Misbah , Vangberg Torgil Riise , Vasylenko Olena , Castro-Chavira Susana , Gorecka Marta M. , Waterloo Knut , Rodríguez-Aranda Claudia
Published: August 2020

Background

White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are a common cerebral finding in older people. WMH are usually asymptomatic, but excessive WMH are associated with cognitive decline and dementia. WMH are also among the neurological findings most consistently associated with declining motor performance in healthy ageing.

Aims

To determine if WMH load is associated with simple and complex motor movements in dominant and non-dominant hands in cognitively intact older subjects.

Methods

Hand motor performance was assessed with the Purdue Pegboard and Finger-tapping tests on 44 healthy right-handed participants, mean age 70.9 years (range 59–84 years). Participants also underwent magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, which were used to quantify WMH volume. The effect of WMH on the motor parameters was assessed via mediation analyses.

Results

WMH load increased significantly with age, while the motor scores decreased significantly with age. WMH load mediated only the relationship between age and left-hand pegboard scores.

Discussion

WMH mediated only the more complex Purdue Pegboard task for the non-dominant hand. This is likely because complex movements in the non-dominant hand recruit a larger cerebral network, which is more vulnerable to WMH.

Conclusions

Complex hand movements in the non-dominant hand are mediated by WMH. Subtle loss of motor movements of non-dominant hand might predict future excessive white matter atrophy.
An Efficient Trap Passivator for Perovskite Solar Cells: Poly(propylene glycol) bis(2-aminopropyl ether)
Authors: Chen Ningli , Yi Xiaohui , Zhuang Jing , Wei Yuanzhi , Zhang Yanyan , Wang Fuyi , Cao Shaokui , Li Cheng , Wang Jizheng
Published: August 2020

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are regarded as promising candidates for future renewable energy production. High-density defects in the perovskite films, however, lead to unsatisfactory device performances. Here, poly(propylene glycol) bis(2-aminopropyl ether) (PEA) additive is utilized to passivate the trap states in perovskite. The PEA molecules chemically interact with lead ions in perovskite, considerably passivate surface and bulk defects, which is in favor of charge transfer and extraction. Furthermore, the PEA additive can efficiently block moisture and oxygen to prolong the device lifetime. As a result, PEA-treated MAPbI3 (MA: CH3NH3) solar cells show increased power conversion efficiency (PCE) (from 17.18 to 18.87%) and good long-term stability. When PEA is introduced to (FAPbI3)1-x(MAPbBr3)x (FA: HC(NH2)2) solar cells, the PCE is enhanced from 19.66 to 21.60%. For both perovskites, their severe device hysteresis is efficiently relieved by PEA.
Superionic Conductivity in Ceria-Based Heterostructure Composites for Low-Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Zhang Yifei , Liu Jingjing , Singh Manish , Hu Enyi , Jiang Zheng , Raza Rizwan , Wang Faze , Wang Jun , Yang Fan , Zhu Bin
Published: August 2020

Ceria-based heterostructure composite (CHC) has become a new stream to develop advanced low-temperature (300–600 °C) solid oxide fuel cells (LTSOFCs) with excellent power outputs at 1000 mW cm−2 level. The state-of-the-art ceria–carbonate or ceria–semiconductor heterostructure composites have made the CHC systems significantly contribute to both fundamental and applied science researches of LTSOFCs; however, a deep scientific understanding to achieve excellent fuel cell performance and high superionic conduction is still missing, which may hinder its wide application and commercialization. This review aims to establish a new fundamental strategy for superionic conduction of the CHC materials and relevant LTSOFCs. This involves energy band and built-in-field assisting superionic conduction, highlighting coupling effect among the ionic transfer, band structure and alignment impact. Furthermore, theories of ceria–carbonate, e.g., space charge and multi-ion conduction, as well as new scientific understanding are discussed and presented for functional CHC materials.
Comparative Efficacy of Linaclotide Versus Other Oral Constipation Treatments in Chronic Constipation: a Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Okumura Hiroyuki , Tang Wentao , Iwasaki Kosuke , Shoji Shingo , Odaka Takeo , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: August 2020

This systematic literature review and network meta-analysis (NMA) indirectly compared the Japanese standard dose of linaclotide 500 μg with other oral chronic constipation (CC) treatments. PubMed, Cochrane-CENTRAL, Ichushi-Web, andClinicalTrials.govwere systematically searched for eligible randomized controlled trials of 43 oral drugs approved globally for CC, including irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and opioid-induced constipation (OIC). The mean difference (95% credible interval) in change from baseline in weekly number of spontaneous bowel movements (SBM) was compared between linaclotide 500 μg (unapproved in OIC) and other treatments using Bayesian methodology. Fifty-two publications (54 trials) involving 47 treatments (16 drugs, different doses of the same drug treated as different treatments) were included in the NMA. Despite including various drugs/doses, for the mean difference in weekly SBM change, linaclotide 500 μg was statistically significantly more efficacious than other drugs/doses (vs 500 μg linaclotide) including the following: placebo (− 1.907; − 2.568, − 1.237); lubiprostone 16 μg (− 2.090; − 3.226, − 0.968); methylnaltrexone 150 mg (− 1.807; − 3.126, − 0.491), 300 mg (− 1.411; − 2.722, − 0.096), and 450 mg (− 1.405; − 2.708, − 0.097); naloxegol 5 mg (− 2.074; − 4.001, − 0.131) and 12.5 mg (− 1.329; − 2.347, − 0.318); and tegaserod 4 mg (− 1.133; − 2.059, − 0.207) and 12 mg (− 1.024; − 1.822, −0.228), and statistically significantly less effective than linaclotide 600 μg non-approved dose (1.159; 0.123, 2.199) and bisacodyl 10 mg (2.979; 1.723, 4.233). These findings provide relative efficacy data for linaclotide 500 μg vs other constipation drugs/doses regarding improving weekly SBM in CC and IBS-C and may inform clinical decision-making for constipation treatments.
Risk Factors for Developing Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: a Meta-analysis
Authors: Fakkel Tirzah M. , Çakici Nuray , Coert J. Henk , Verhagen Arianne P. , Bramer Wichor M. , van Neck Johan W.
Published: August 2020

To identify risk factors for the development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, systematic searches of PubMed, Embase, Web-of-Science, Cochrane and Google scholar databases were performed to conduct a meta-analysis of prospective studies that quantified major risk factors for diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Two authors independently extracted data for a random-effects meta-analysis. The standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% CI for continuous data, and an odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI for dichotomous data were calculated. Of 7473 studies retrieved, 16 qualified studies were included. Contributing risk factors for developing diabetic peripheral neuropathy were age (SMD = 0.36; CI, 0.19 to 0.54;P < 0.01), body mass index (SMD = 0.31; CI, 0.20 to 0.42;P < 0.01), diabetes duration (SMD = 0.47; CI, 0.30 to 0.65;P < 0.01), estimated glomerular filtration rate (SMD = − 0.45; CI, − 0.63 to − 0.27;P < 0.01), fibrinogen (SMD = 0.10; CI, 0.01 to 0.19;P = 0.03), haemoglobin A1c (SMD = 0.24; CI, 0.16 to 0.32;P < 0.01), high-density lipoproteins (SMD = − 0.14; CI, − 0.21 to − 0.06;P < 0.01) systolic blood pressure (SMD = 0.31; CI, 0.10 to 0.52;P < 0.01), waist circumference (SMD = 0.39; CI, 0.14 to 0.64;P < 0.01), weight (SMD = 0.34; CI, 0.24 to 0.43;P < 0.01), cardiovascular disease (OR = 2.22; CI, 1.75 to 2.81;P < 0.01), foot ulcer history (OR = 1.90; CI, 1.09 to 3.33;P = 0.02), hypertension (OR = 1.90; CI, 1.24 to 2.89;P < 0.01), macroalbuminuria (OR = 2.96; CI, 2.02 to 4.35;P < 0.01), micro- or macroalbuminuria (OR = 1.73; CI, 1.43 to 2.08;P < 0.01), proliferative retinopathy (OR = 2.48; CI, 1.80 to 3.41;P < 0.01) and retinopathy (OR = 2.19; CI, 1.84 to 2.62;P < 0.01). Our findings show 17 risk factors that significantly contribute to the development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Long-term heat treatment of collector bars for aluminium electrolysis: impact on microstructure and electrical properties
Authors: Hankel Jonas , Kernebeck Sandra , Deuerler Friederike , Weber Sebastian
Published: August 2020

In order to identify possible optimizations regarding the electrical energy efficiency of an aluminium electrolysis cell, the impact of service temperature on microstructure and electrical properties of the cell cathode was investigated. The investigations include experiments regarding the chemical composition, especially the content of carbon, the electrical conductivity and the microstructure at selected positions. Thermodynamic calculations were used to estimate local service temperatures and explain phase transformations and formations. It was found that due to the increased service temperature diffusion processes of carbon took place to a particular extent between cast iron and collector bar. As a result, the carbon content in the collector bar changed from 0.06 to 1.05–1.4 wt%, while in the cast iron a reduction from 3.47 to < 1.50 wt% took place. These processes led to isothermal phase transformations and formations, that changed the matrix of the collector bar from austenitic with low content of ferrite to an austenitic matrix accompanied by precipitation of secondary, predominantly allotriomorphic cementite at service temperature. It was then shown that this has a negative effect on collector bar and decreases the electrical conductivity by up to 26 %. It was also discovered that graphite spheroidization within the grey cast iron has a positive effect on its electrical conductivity, which has increased by 52 %. The results provide the basis to gain an understanding of the carbon diffusion related processes within the cathode of an electrolysis cell and reveal further potential to increase the energy efficiency of primary aluminium production.
Impact of heart failure severity on ventricular assist device haemodynamics: a computational study
Authors: McElroy Michael , Xenakis Antonios , Keshmiri Amir
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This computational fluid dynamics study investigates the necessity of incorporating heart failure severity in the preoperative planning of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) configurations, as it is often omitted from studies on LVAD performance.

Methods

A parametric study was conducted examining a common range of LVAD to aortic root flow ratios (LVAD/AR-FR). A normal aortic root waveform was scaled by 5–30% in increments of 5% to represent the common range of flow pumped by the left ventricle for different levels of heart failure. A constant flow rate from the cannula compensated for the severity of heart failure in order to maintain normal total aortic flow rate.

Results

The results show that LVAD/AR-FR can have a significant but irregular impact on the perfusion and shear stress-related haemodynamic parameters of the subclavian and carotid arteries. Furthermore, it is found that a larger portion of the flow is directed towards the thoracic aorta at the expense of the carotid and subclavian arteries, regardless of LVAD/AR-FR.

Conclusion

The irregular behaviour found in the subclavian and carotid arteries highlights the necessity of including the LVAD/AR-FR in the preoperative planning of an LVAD configuration, in order to accurately improve the effects on the cardiovascular system post implantation.
Sexual Orientation–Related Differences in Sexual Satisfaction and Sexual Problems—A Population-Based Study in Sweden
Authors: Björkenstam Charlotte , Mannheimer Louise , Löfström Matilda , Deogan Charlotte
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Human sexuality is a natural and important part of peoples’ life and well-being. The underlying interactions affecting sexual satisfaction are complex, and sexual orientation differences partly remain to be identified as well as explained.

Aim

Our aim was to investigate sexual orientation–related differences in sexual satisfaction and sexual dissatisfaction and differences in sexual function and sexual-related problems.

Methods

We used Swedish data from SRHR2017 (sexual and reproductive health and rights), based on self-administered surveys, linked to nationwide registers. The national sample consisted of 14,537 women and men aged 16–84 years. With logistic regression, we examined sexual orientation–related differences in self-reported sexual satisfaction and sexual dissatisfaction, stratified by sex.

Main outcome measures

The main outcome measures of this study are odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Bisexual women were more dissatisfied with their sex life, as compared with heterosexual women (OR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.3–2.6), as were bisexual men compared with heterosexual men (OR: 2.7; 95% CI: 1.7–4.4). A bisexual or lesbian identity was a robust risk factor for premature orgasm (OR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1–3.9 and OR: 8.0; 95% CI: 3.2–20.0, respectively). Lesbian women seemed to have lower risk for many sexual-related problems (however not significant). Gay men lacked arousal (OR: 3.3; 95% CI: 1.6–6.9), had no orgasm (OR: 2.6; 95% CI: 1.4–4.7), and were at lower risk of experiencing premature ejaculation (OR: 0.4; 95% CI: 0.2–0.9), as compared with heterosexual men.

Conclusion

Our findings contribute to the sparse evidence of some sexual orientation differences in sexual satisfaction and sexual dysfunctions. Especially bisexual women and men appear to experience less sexual satisfaction in relation to heterosexual and homosexual women and men.
Evolution of the Oceanic Lithosphere in the Equatorial Atlantic From Rayleigh Wave Tomography, Evidence for Small‐Scale Convection From the PI‐LAB Experiment
Authors: Harmon Nicholas , Rychert Catherine A. , Kendall J. Michael , Agius Matthew , Bogiatzis Petros , Tharimena Saikiran
Published: August 2020

The oceanic lithosphere is a primary component of the plate tectonic system, yet its evolution and its asthenospheric interaction have rarely been quantified by in situ imaging at slow spreading systems. We use Rayleigh wave tomography from noise and teleseismic surface waves to image the shear wave velocity structure of the oceanic lithosphere‐asthenosphere system from 0 to 80 My at the equatorial Mid‐Atlantic Ridge using data from the Passive Imaging of the Lithosphere‐Asthenosphere Boundary (PI‐LAB) experiment. We observe fast lithosphere (VSV > 4.4 km/s) that thickens from 20–30 km near the ridge axis to ~70 km at seafloor >60 My. We observe several punctuated slow velocity anomalies (VSV < 4.1 km/s) in the asthenosphere between 50 and 150 km depth, not necessarily focused beneath the ridge axis. Some of the slow velocity regions are located within 100 km of the ridge axis, but other slow velocity regions are observed at distances > 400 km from the ridge. We observe a high velocity lithospheric downwelling drip beneath 30 My seafloor that extends to 80–130 km depth. The asthenospheric slow velocities likely require partial melt. Although melt is present off axis, the lack of off‐axis volcanism suggests the lithosphere acts as a permeability boundary for deeper melts. The punctuated and off‐axis character of the asthenospheric anomalies and lithospheric drip suggests small‐scale convection is active at a range of seafloor ages. Small‐scale convection and/or more complex mantle flow may be aided by the presence of large offset fracture zones and/or the presence of melt and its associated low‐viscosities and enhanced buoyancies.
Full Particle Simulation of Whistler‐Mode Triggered Falling‐Tone Emissions in the Magnetosphere
Authors: Nogi Takeshi , Nakamura Satoko , Omura Yoshiharu
Published: August 2020

We perform a one‐dimensional electromagnetic full particle simulation for triggered falling‐tone emissions in the Earth's magnetosphere. The equatorial region of the magnetosphere is modeled with a parabolic magnetic field approximation. The short whistler‐mode waves with a large amplitude are excited and propagate poleward from an artificial current oscillating with a constant frequency and amplitude. Following the excited waves, clear emissions are triggered with a falling frequency. Without the inhomogeneity of the background magnetic field, no triggered emission appears. The falling tone has several subpackets of amplitude and decreases the frequency in a stepwise manner. The positive resonant current formed by resonant electrons in the direction of the wave magnetic field clearly shows that an electron hill is formed in the phase space and causes the frequency decrease. The entrapping of the resonant electrons at the front of the packets and the decrease of the amplitude at the end of packets are essential for the generation of falling‐tone emissions. Each wavefront of the emission has a strongly negative resonant current −JE, which results in the wave growth. In the formation process of the resonant currents, we investigate the inhomogeneous factor S, which controls the nonlinear motion of the resonant electrons interacting with waves. The factor S consists of two terms, a frequency sweep rate and a gradient of the background magnetic field. The resonant current JE in the wave packet changes its sign from negative to positive as the packet moves away from the equator, terminating the wave growth.
Toward An Integrated View of Ionospheric Plasma Instabilities: 5. Ion‐Thermal Instability for Arbitrary Ion Magnetization, Density Gradient, and Wave Propagation
Authors: Makarevich Roman A.
Published: August 2020

A unified fluid theory of ionospheric electrostatic instabilities is presented that includes thermal effects due to nonisothermal processes for arbitrary ion magnetization, background density gradient, and wave propagation. The theory considers arbitrary altitude within the limits imposed by the fluid and collisional models and integrates the ion‐thermal instability (ITI) with the Farley‐Buneman and gradient‐drift plasma instabilities (FBI and GDI). A general dispersion relation is obtained and solved numerically for the complex wave frequency ω by using either an iterative or a polynomial (quadric) form in ω. An analytic explicit expression for the instability growth rate is also derived under the local and slow growth approximations. The previously considered limiting cases of the FBI/ITI at long wavelengths and the FBI/GDI for isothermal plasma are successfully recovered. In the high‐latitude E‐region near 110 km in altitude, thermal effects are found to be destabilizing at long wavelengths near
 m and stabilizing at shorter wavelengths near 10 m. In the F‐region, the effects are destabilizing at
 m but much weaker that those of GDI for moderate gradients. At shorter wavelengths, they become comparable so that a significant fraction of propagation directions at
 m have positive growth rates, in contrast with the isothermal FBI/GDI case, where stronger gradients are needed to destabilize the plasma at these short wavelengths. The overall conclusion is that the thermal effects modify the growth rate terms traditionally associated with FBI and GDI rather than being purely additive.
Relationship Between Wintertime Leads and Low Clouds in the Pan‐Arctic
Authors: Li Xia , Krueger Steven K. , Strong Courtenay , Mace Gerald G.
Published: August 2020

Wintertime leads play an important role in the Arctic boundary layer as they promote turbulent flux exchanges from the warm exposed water to the cold atmosphere, thereby affecting the boundary layer cloudiness and structure. Recent work suggests that less (more) low‐level cloud occurrence is found in higher (lower) lead fraction periods, yet the analysis efforts were limited to a peripheral sea north of Barrow, Alaska. Here, we extend the previous study to examine this relationship between wintertime Arctic leads and low clouds in the context of a longer time series (November–March, 2006–2011) and greater spatial coverage (pan‐Arctic), based on cloud products from CloudSat and Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) satellites and lead area fraction derived from Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for EOS (AMSR‐E) observations. We focus on the east side of high‐pressure systems to isolate lead impacts on boundary layer clouds. Using a k‐means cluster‐analysis algorithm, low‐level cloud regimes are categorized on the basis of occurrence frequency of low‐level clouds. We find that, in the pan‐Arctic, less (more) low‐level cloud occurrence is associated with higher (lower) large‐scale lead flux, in agreement with the previous study. This lead‐low cloud association exhibits strong regional variation; it is enhanced over the Beaufort Sea where the variability of large‐scale meteorological conditions is decreased. These results suggest that a higher lead fraction might have important impacts on the Arctic surface energy budget by decreasing downwelling longwave radiation through reduced low‐level cloudiness.
Far‐Ranging Impact of Mountain Waves Excited Over Greenland on Stratospheric Dehydration and Rehydration
Authors: Kivi Rigel , Dörnbrack Andreas , Sprenger Michael , Vömel Holger
Published: August 2020

In situ observations of reduced stratospheric water vapor combined with those of ice particle formation are rarely conducted. On the one hand, they are essential to broaden our knowledge about the formation of polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs). On the other hand, the observed profiles allow the comparison with global circulation models. Here we report about a balloon‐borne observation above Sodankylä, Finland on 26 January 2005. The frostpoint hygrometer detected layers of reduced water vapor by up to 2 ppmv from 18.5 to 23 km. Beneath, a 1‐km‐deep layer of increased water vapor was identified. An aerosol backscatter sonde measured the presence of stratospheric ice clouds. According to meteorological analysis the PSCs were formed upstream above the east coast of Greenland due to mountain wave‐induced cooling. The inertia‐gravity waves generated a large and persistent stratospheric wake far downstream of Greenland and led to the observed dehydration. Comparing the most recent ERA5 data with operational analyses from 2005, we find an improved representation of mesoscale internal gravity waves, dehydration and PSC formation for this particular event.
Phototoxic damage to cone photoreceptors can be independent of the visual pigment: the porphyrin hypothesis
Authors: Marie Mélanie , Forster Valérie , Fouquet Stéphane , Berto Pascal , Barrau Coralie , Ehrismann Camille , Sahel José-Alain , Tessier Gilles , Picaud Serge
Published: August 2020

Lighting is rapidly changing with the introduction of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in our homes, workplaces, and cities. This evolution of our optical landscape raises major concerns regarding phototoxicity to the retina since light exposure is an identified risk factor for the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In this disease, cone photoreceptors degenerate while the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is accumulating lipofuscin containing phototoxic compounds such as A2E. Therefore, it remains unclear if the light-elicited degenerative process is initiated in cones or in the RPE. Using purified cone photoreceptors from pig retina, we here investigated the effect of light on cone survival from 390 to 510 nm in 10 nm steps, plus the 630 nm band. If at a given intensity (0.2 mW/cm²), the most toxic wavelengths are comprised in the visible-to-near-UV range, they shift to blue-violet light (425–445 nm) when exposing cells to a solar source filtered by the eye optics. In contrast to previous rodent studies, this cone photoreceptor phototoxicity is not related to light absorption by the visual pigment. Despite bright flavin autofluorescence of cone inner segment, excitation–emission matrix of this inner segment suggested that cone phototoxicity was instead caused by porphyrin. Toxic light intensities were lower than those previously defined for A2E-loaded RPE cells indicating cones are the first cells at risk for a direct light insult. These results are essential to normative regulations of new lighting but also for the prevention of human retinal pathologies since toxic solar light intensities are encountered even at high latitudes.
Genetic modifiers in rare disorders: the case of fragile X syndrome
Authors: Crawford Hayley , Scerif Gaia , Wilde Lucy , Beggs Andrew , Stockton Joanne , Sandhu Pria , Shelley Lauren , Oliver Chris , McCleery Joseph
Published: August 2020

Methods employed in genome-wide association studies are not feasible ways to explore genotype–phenotype associations in rare disorders due to limited statistical power. An alternative approach is to examine relationships among specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), selected a priori, and behavioural characteristics. Here, we adopt this strategy to examine relationships between three SNPs (5-HTTLPR, MAOA, COMT) and specific clinically-relevant behaviours that are phenotypic of fragile X syndrome (FXS) but vary in severity and frequency across individuals. Sixty-four males with FXS participated in the current study. Data from standardised informant measures of challenging behaviour (defined as physical aggression, property destruction, stereotyped behaviour, and self-injury), autism symptomatology, attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder characteristics, repetitive behaviour and mood/interest and pleasure were compared between each SNP genotype. No association was observed between behavioural characteristics and either 5-HTTLPR (serotonin) or MAOA (monoamine oxidase) genotypes. However, compared to the COMT (dopamine) AG and GG genotypes, the AA genotype was associated with greater interest and pleasure in the environment, and with reduced risk for property destruction, stereotyped behaviour and compulsive behaviour. The results suggest that common genetic variation in the COMT genotype affecting dopamine levels in the brain may contribute to the variability of challenging and repetitive behaviours and interest and pleasure in this population. This study identifies a role for additional genetic risk in understanding the neural and genetic mechanisms contributing to phenotypic variability in neurodevelopmental disorders, and highlights the merit of investigating SNPs that are selected a priori on a theoretical basis in rare populations.
IR–VUV spectroscopy of pyridine dimers, trimers and pyridine–ammonia complexes in a supersonic jet
Authors: Feng Jun-Ying , Lee Yuan-Pern , Zhu Chao-Yuan , Hsu Po-Jen , Kuo Jer-Lai , Ebata Takayuki
Published: August 2020

The infrared spectra of the C–H stretching vibrations of (pyridine)m, m = 1–3, and the N–H stretching vibrations of (pyridine)m–(NH3)n, m = 1, 2; n = 1–4, complexes were investigated by infrared (IR)–vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) spectroscopy under jet-cooled conditions.
The effect of charge on the uptake and resistance to reduction of platinum(iv) complexes in human serum and whole blood models
Authors: Chen Catherine K J , Gui Xiao , Kappen Peter , Renfrew Anna K , Hambley Trevor W
Published: August 2020

cis- and trans-Platinum(iv) complexes with diaminetetracarboxylate coordination spheres possess the highly desirable property of exhibiting unusual resistance to reduction by blood serum components and endogenous reductants such as ascorbate. At the same time they are rapidly reduced in the intracellular environment of cancer cells. Consequently, they can potentially be tuned to remain intact in vivo until arrival at the tumour target where they are rapidly reduced to yield the active platinum(ii) species. However, in order to achieve this, uptake must be largely restricted to tumour cells and therefore uptake by healthy cells including red blood cells must be prevented. In this proof of concept study, we report on the effect of net charge as a means of controlling the uptake by red blood cells. Using 1H NMR spectroscopy we found that modifying the net charge of the complex does not influence the rate of reduction of the complexes by an excess of ascorbate. Using XANES spectroscopy we found that modifying the net charge of the platinum(iv) complexes decreased the extent of reduction in whole blood, although probably not to the degree needed for the optimal delivery to tumours. Therefore, it is likely to be necessary to adopt higher charges and/or additional strategies to keep platinum(iv) prodrugs out of blood cells.
A Ag–ZrO2–graphene oxide nanocomposite as a metal-leaching-resistant catalyst for the aqueous-phase hydrogenation of levulinic acid into gamma-valerolactone
Authors: Bai Xufeng , Ren Ting , Mao Jingbo , Li Shenmin , Yin Jingmei , Zhou Jinxia
Published: August 2020

A novel metal-leaching-resistant catalyst containing Ag, ZrO2 and graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized for the aqueous-phase hydrogenation of LA into GVL.
Multi-waveband quasi-periodic oscillations in the light curves of blazar CTA 102 during its 2016–2017 optical outburst
Authors: Sarkar Arkadipta , Kushwaha Pankaj , Gupta Alok C. , Chitnis Varsha R. , Wiita Paul J.
Published: August 2020

Context. Quasi-periodic fluctuations in the light curves of blazars can provide insight into the underlying emission process. This type of flux modulation hints at periodic physical processes that result in emission. CTA 102, a flat spectrum radio quasar at a redshift of 1.032, has displayed significant activity since 2016. The multi-waveband light curve of CTA 102 shows signs of quasi-periodic oscillations during the 2016–2017 flare.

Aims. Our goal is to rigorously quantify the presence of any possible periodicity in the emitted flux during the mentioned period and to explore the possible causes that can give rise to it.

Methods. Techniques such as the Lomb-Scargle periodogram and weighted wavelet z-transform were employed to observe the power emitted at different frequencies. To quantify the significance of the dominant period, Monte-Carlo techniques were employed to consider an underlying smooth bending power-law model for the power spectrum. In addition, the light curve was modeled using an autoregressive process (AR1) to analytically obtain the significance of the dominant period. Lastly, the light curve was modeled using a generalized autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) process to check whether introducing a seasonal (periodic) component results in a statistically preferable model.

Results. Highly significant, simultaneous quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) were observed in the γ-ray and optical fluxes of blazar CTA 102 during its highest optical activity episode in 2016–2017. The periodic flux modulation had a dominant period of ∼7.6 days and lasted for ∼8 cycles (MJD 57710–57770). All of the methods used point toward significant (> 4σ) quasi-periodic modulation in both γ-ray and optical fluxes.

Conclusions. Several possible models were explored while probing the origin of the periodicity, and by extension, the 2016–2017 optical flare. The best explanation for the detected QPO appears to be a region of enhanced emission (blob), moving helically inside the jet.
A Novel Technique in Fibrin Gluing of Intercostal Nerves: Splint and Weld
Authors: Bhandari Prem Singh
Published: August 2020

Splint and weld technique ensures a sound coaptation of intercostal and musculocutaneous nerves with minimal introduction of synthetic suture through the neural tissue.
Upper Extremity Tendon Transfers: A Brief Review of History, Common Applications, and Technical Tips
Authors: Gardenier Jason , Garg Rohit , Mudgal Chaitanya
Published: August 2020

Background Tendon transfer in the upper extremity represents a powerful tool in the armamentarium of a reconstructive surgeon in the setting of irreparable nerve injury or the anatomic loss of key portions of the muscle-tendon unit. The concept uses the redundancy/expendability of tendons by utilizing a nonessential tendon to restore the function of a lost or nonfunctional muscle-tendon unit of the upper extremity. This article does not aim to perform a comprehensive review of tendon transfers. Instead it is meant to familiarize the reader with salient historical features, common applications in the upper limb, and provide the reader with some technical tips, which may facilitate a successful tendon transfer.

Learning Objectives (1) Familiarize the reader with some aspects of tendon transfer history. (2) Identify principles of tendon transfers. (3) Identify important preoperative considerations. (4) Understand the physiology of the muscle-tendon unit and the Blix curve. (5) Identify strategies for setting tension during a tendon transfer and rehabilitation strategies.

Design This study was designed to review the relevant current literature and provide an expert opinion.

Conclusions Tendon transfers have evolved from polio to tetraplegia to war and represent an extremely powerful technique to correct neurologic and musculotendinous deficits in a variety of patients affected by trauma, peripheral nerve palsies, cerebral palsy, stroke, and inflammatory arthritis. In the contemporary setting, these very same principles have also been very successfully applied to vascularized composite allotransplantation in the upper limb.
Désintégration modale et temporelle de l’espace théâtral
Authors: Wołowski Witold , Wołowska Katarzyna
Published: August 2020

A la nuit la nuit de François Billetdoux est une pièce de théâtre écrite presque tout entière au
conditionnel et avec des structures verbales et discursives du mode irréel. L’emploi de cette stratégie linguistique, qui fait le principal
objet des analyses effectuées dans le présent travail (à la fois littéraire, linguistique et théâtrologique), est corrolaire d’une intention
de fragiliser les bases ’’factuelles’’ sur lesquelles se fonde la construction de l’univers représenté dans l’œuvre. La pièce de Billetdoux
s’inscrit ainsi dans la lignée de la Sonate des spectres, de l’Annonce faite à Benoît et d’autres textes
littéraires et dramatiques qui montrent une certaine relativité des histoires individuelles.
Regulation Model of Suppressing Wind Power Fluctuation Based on Small Hydropower Virtual Power Plant
Authors: Wu Yangjin , Gao Jianyu , Hong Yunfei , Zhou Hanze , Ye Jiawei , Liu Lianguang
Published: August 2020

Using energy storage power station to suppress wind power fluctuation has large investment and low economic effect. According to the condition that Ningde grid has adjustable small hydropower, two construction schemes of virtual power plant based on adjustable small hydropower is proposed to suppress the power fluctuation of the coastal wind power in Ningde. The objective function of the coordination and optimization regulation model is to minimize the generation cost of the small hydropower units. Based on the cascade hydropower model, the water constraints of the reservoir and output constraints of the hydropower, as well as the constraints of stable operation of power system are considered. A double-layer algorithm based on the branch and bound and the checking and adding method of power flow constraint is used to solve the optimal model. The algorithm proves the validity of the optimal scheduling model and proposes the optimal strategies of the small hydropower. The simulation results show that the virtual power plant using small hydropower to suppress wind power fluctuation can effectively realize friendly access of Ningde wind farm, reduce the operation cost of power grid and achieve low carbon and clean electric power without additional construction investment.
Advance in Improving the Electrical Performance of Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Wu Wanjing , Zhang Duwei , Fang Ping
Published: August 2020

As a bioelectrochemical hybrid system, microbial fuel cell converts chemical energy into electrical energy through microbial metabolism, which has great advantages of energy conservation and environmental protection, high energy conversion efficiency, and reduced sludge volume. Therefore, how to improve the power generation performance and output power of MFC has been a hot topic in recent years. Based on this, on the basis of reviewing many literatures, this review analyzes the main factors influencing the electrical performance of MFC by combining the principle of MFC and its electronic transfer mechanism, including battery reactor structure, exchange membrane, anode microorganisms, electrode materials and parameters, etc. At the same time, the application prospect of MFC is discussed, including CW-MFC coupling technology, biosensor and sewage treatment technology. Finally, the present challenges of MFC are put forward, and a better application research direction is proposed for the future of MFC.
Collaborative Planning of Charging Station and Distribution Network Considering Electric Vehicle Mobile Energy Storage
Authors: Hua Guanghui , Xu Qingqiang , Zhang Yating , Yu Tian
Published: August 2020

A collaborative planning model for electric vehicle (EV) charging station and distribution networks is proposed in this paper based on the consideration of electric vehicle mobile energy storage. As a mobile charging load, EVs can interact with the power grid. Taking EVs as planning considerations, subsidies for EVs are used to shift the charging load to the feeder network area with a large margin, reducing the transformer capacity and reducing the overall planning cost. Finally, the article uses CPLEX to solve the optimization problem, and uses an 18-node distribution system for simulation verification.
Matching Design of Two Heat Collecting Modes in Solar Water Heating System in Alpine Region
Authors: Zhang Lingfei , Wang Ruidong , Liu Chen , Li Ruochen , Mao Ting
Published: August 2020

In view of the practical problems of using hot water in production and life in this remote farming and pastoral area in Guoluo, Qinghai Province, this paper studies and realizes the technology of multi-module integrated heating system for agriculture and animal husbandry in the alpine region. In the alpine region represented by the Guoluo area, there are sufficient solar radiation resources. This paper adopts the heat collecting method of Fresnel collector and electric auxiliary heating, and takes into account the actual situation of solar radiation, water demand and seasonal energy demand in the Guoluo area. The matching design of two important parameters of Fresnel solar collector area and electric auxiliary heater power in the system model is studied to realize the high-efficiency photothermal comprehensive utilization of solar energy and achieve effective low-cost coupling with electric heating. Finally, through the research of this paper, with the principle of low cost and low energy consumption, it will effectively solve the problem of agricultural and livestock production and living water in alpine regions, and provide examples for solving the problem of heating in winter in agricultural and pastoral areas.
Study on the Combination of Low-Pressure Hydrogen Cylinder and Non-sintered Ceramic Wall to Solve Water Permeability
Authors: Chang Ting-Yu , Wu Shinn-Dar , Huang Chun-Ming , Yang Yu-Lin , Lin Yea-Chyi , Hung Yen-Ling , Chang Yen-Hsiu
Published: August 2020

Global green energy development by many technological breakthroughs, so that the new composite materials modified and designed, so that new energy has a new look, this study to improve people’s high-pressure hydrogen storage of hydrogen energy technology hazards and hidden worries, so design and improve the local low-pressure hydrogen storage combined with secondary building wall design, and sustainable environmental thinking, The use of waste ceramic reuse technology, combined with low-pressure hydrogen bottle design to form a new composite material structure, and the best parameters to solve waterproof non-sintered ceramic clad metal material research, and OM, salt spray, perspective X-RAY observation with metal now ceramic anti-corrosion permeability, the future use of geotechnical engineering, building diversification. More so that hydrogen in non-high pressure, more in people’s life circle and local hydrogen storage and PC use. Thank partially support by the MOST 108-2221-E-343-001.
Optimal Distribution of Heat Collecting Area of Two Collectors in Solar Water Heating Systems
Authors: Zhang Lingfei , Chen Huan , Liu Chen , He Yiling , Cao Lei
Published: August 2020

In view of the large seasonal temperature difference, and the large temperature difference between day and night, difficulty in supplying domestic hot water supply in high altitude area, and the contradiction between low efficiency and cost of single type solar collector system, a hybrid heat collection system based on two different types of solar collectors has been considered in this paper, and a multi-objective optimization model for the heat collecting area optimization of the hybrid solar collectors has also established to solve the above problems. Besides, a fast and effective multi-objective optimization method was proposed for solving of this multi-objective optimization model. This method is based on the fast non-dominated genetic algorithm and the multi-objective decision-making analytic hierarchy process, and was used to analyze the practical hot water supply in a farm in Guoluo zone. The research results shown that this proposed optimization algorithm can quickly and effectively complete the heat collecting area distribution of two different types of collectors in the combined heat collecting system given a certain weight of system cost and heat collecting area. Under the premise of guaranteeing sufficient hot water supply, the system cost is significantly reduced. Therefore, the problem of difficulty and high cost of hot water supply in the plateau region is solved, which has a good practical significance.
Research on Wind and PV Power Consumption Strategy Considering Limited Flexible Regulation of Transmitted Bundling Power on Tie-Line
Authors: Sun B , Shi J D , Jiao B Q , Zang C , Zeng Y , Liu B
Published: August 2020

There are many “west-to-east” electricity transmission lines in China, some of which transmit bundling power among which including wind and photovoltaic (PV) power. On one hand, according to the interconnected power systems theory, the transmitted power on trans-regional tie-lines needs to keep relatively stable. Therefore, wind turbines and PV facilities have to be bundled with other controllable units, e.g., thermal units. On the other hand, the ratio of wind and PV electricity on tie-lines can be improved by making full use of flexible regulation strategy. With which, the transmitted power can be adjusted along with the day-ahead forecast results of wind energy and solar radiation intensity in some degree. Some work was done on the day-ahead limited flexible regulation. Firstly, the operation rules of the interconnected power systems were introduced, and the principle of how to improve the ratio of wind and PV electricity was explained. Then, considering the consumption and power supply economics of renewable electricity, an optimization model was established and the solving method was proposed. Finally, case studies were conducted. The variations of transmitted power curves under different focuses were analysed. The effectiveness of the proposed regulation strategy was confirmed.
Study on Heat Transfer Performance of Phase Change Thermal Storage Heat Pump Water Heater with Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Tu Zhigang , Xiong Ligui , Li Xinfang
Published: August 2020

To explore the feasibility of applying carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/paraffin composites to heat pump water heater system, heat transfer characteristics of phase change thermal storage heat pump water heater were analyzed and discussed. It was shown that the melting and solidification rates of nanocomposite were significantly improved upon the addition of CNTs nanoparticles, and the heat pump heat water with thermal storage has good stability in heat storage and release process. There are some differences in the distribution of temperature field in phase change thermal storage system, especially in exothermic stage. Thermal “stagnation” occurs near the corner of the outlet of water medium, so it is necessary to increase the amount of materials appropriately. Compared with traditional regenerative heat pump water heater with water tank, volume of regenerator of heat pump water heater is reduced by about 1/2 with the addition of nano-composites, and the thermal efficiency can reach 86%. The running experimental results of heat pump water heater suggests the reliability of designment of the thermal energy storage and the feasibility of CNTs/paraffin using in the heat pump water heater. The temperature of CNTs-paraffin composites rises faster and the heat transfer time is shorter at higher ambient temperature. Obviously, ambient temperature has a significant impact on the property of heat pump system.
Research on Environmentally Friendly Chemical Technology for Green Reusable and Sustainable Water Metal Copper Ions
Authors: Wu Shinn-Dar , He Sui-Qun , Yang Yu-Lin , Lin Yea-Chyi , Chang Ting-Yu , Peng Ching-Yu , Hsieh Meng-Ting
Published: August 2020

In traditional chemical processes, they are considered highly polluting and unfriendly to the environment. The air, water, soil, and land were severely damaged. Among the international environmental protection issues, especially the development of industry is a very worthwhile study. Therefore, this study will discuss metal ions in water. This study takes copper as the object of discussion. In the future, different metals, such as nickel, iron, zinc, and other metals, will be discussed, and industrial process problems will be solved. For copper, it is also a common metal in life. Copper metal bottles, handicrafts, circuit boards, heat dissipation components, metal soldering agents, sewage treatment agents and many other uses. However, in the copper process, electroplating, and waste after use are often treated as secondary pollution. From the perspective of technology and process, an environmentally friendly chemical process is proposed, which can also make the best use of reactants and waste water. After the process improvement, the copper ions are post-processed to extract new copper compound material technology. At the same time, the water body is controlled at pH 7, which can be reused more to achieve the goal of sustainable circulation. Thank partially support by the MOST 108-2221-E-343-001.
Analysis and Research on Energy-Storage Characteristics of Light Metal
Authors: Hu Bo , Wu C J
Published: August 2020

Compared with traditional fossil fuels, light metal is expected to develop into a next generation of energy carriers that are renewable, clean, emission-free, and have excellent energy-storage performance. Based on the chemical reaction equation and the standard molar enthalpy of formation, the mass storage energy density, volumetric storage energy density, oxidant participation of different metals are calculated and compared with common fossil fuels. The results show that the volumetric energy-storage density of magnesium, aluminium, and silicon is about 135%-253% of gasoline, and the oxidant utilization rate is about 228%-305% of gasoline. The calculation results of light metal energy-storage characteristics reveal the great technical potential of light metal fuel to improve the endurance of underwater vehicles.