bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RESEARCH AND APPLICATION OF IMPROVED HIGH PRECISION MATCHING PURSUIT METHOD
Authors: Wu‐Yang YANG , Qing YANG , Xin HE , Gao‐Han YAN , Xin‐Jian WEI , De‐Wu CHEN , Dong Li
Published: February 2018

Based on conventional matching pursuit (MP) algorithm, an improved approach of MP is presented in this paper. By introducing a new strategy of building complete library, the Ricker wavelet was taken as atoms and the maximum correlation of original seismic data was used to estimate the location and atomic energy of complete library. The decomposition precision was increased further through the method so that the adaptability of the algorithm was greatly improved. To avoid the atomic spacing being too small, the smallest atomic spacing was introduced, so the decomposition efficiency and quality were further improved. Model trial and application of practical data showed that not only the quality of the signal sparse representation through the algorithm was improved and the convergence speed was accelerated, but also the adaptability and decomposition precision of the algorithm were enhanced. Effective seismic information can be obtained better and the precision of seismic interpretation can be improved by the method.
Protonation of a Spherical Macrotricyclic Tetramine: Water Inclusion, Allosteric Effect, and Cooperativity
Authors: Graf Ernest , Harrowfield Jack , Kintzinger Jean‐Pierre , Lehn Jean‐Marie , Le Moigne Jacques , Rissanen Kari
Published: February 2018

The spherical macrotricyclic cryptand tetramine “C24” (1) displays remarkable protonation behaviour. It undergoes protonation in four successive steps for which pKa values of 11.17±0.05, 10.28±0.04, 6.00±0.06 and 3.08±0.08 have been determined at 298 K. The unusually close values for the first two protonations provide evidence for the encapsulation of a water molecule serving as effector for the second protonation, which is consistent with earlier observations that the exchange of protons bound in the diprotonated species with solvent protons is unusually slow and that 17O NMR spectra show the presence of an oxygen centre in the same species quite distinct from that of solvent water. Encapsulation of water is also observed in the solid state in the picrate salt of the triprotonated form of 1 and has been characterised by means of X‐ray structural determination.
Novel aspects of live intestinal epithelial cell function revealed using a custom time‐lapse video microscopy apparatus
Authors: Papetti Michael , Kozlowski Piotr
Published: February 2018

Many aspects of cell physiology, including migration, membrane function, and cell division, are best understood by observing live cell dynamics over time using video microscopy. To probe these phenomena in colon epithelial cells using simple components with a limited budget, we have constructed an inexpensive (<$410) self‐contained apparatus, consisting of a closed‐loop, feedback‐controlled system regulated by a PID (proportional‐integrative‐derivative) controller contained within a 0.077 m3 insulated acrylic box. Temperature, humidity, pH, and proliferative capacity of colon epithelial cells in this system mimic those in a standard tissue culture incubator for over four days. Our system offers significant advantages over existing cost‐prohibitive commercially available and custom‐made devices because of its very low cost, use of PID temperature control, lack of reliance on constant infusion of external humidified, heated air or carbon dioxide, ability to directly measure cell culture medium temperature, and combination of exquisite cellular detail with minimal focus drift under physiological conditions for extended periods of time. Using this apparatus, coupled with an inverted microscope equipped with phase contrast optics and a programmable digital camera, we have observed many events in colon epithelial cells not visible by static imaging, including kinetics of normal and abnormal mitoses, dynamic membrane structures, intracellular vesicle movements, and cell migration. © 2018 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Monte Carlo–based channel estimation and performance evaluation for UWOC links under geometric losses
Authors: Qadar Rabia , Kasi Mumraiz K. , Ayub Sara , Kakar Faisal A.
Published: February 2018

Underwater wireless optical communication has been studied and proposed as a potential technology for various underwater applications including monitoring and surveillance using wireless sensor networks. In this context, we present a statistical model using an exhaustive Monte Carlo approach for an underwater wireless optical communication link between sensor nodes in a data mulling environment. This work provides insights into the science of photon transport underwater, its utilization in a communication system, evaluation, and optimization of underwater communication. We characterize the temporal channel behavior taking into account multiple scattering of photons involving the constraints of detector aperture diameter, field‐of‐view (FOV), and link distance for an aligned point‐to‐point link. We analyze the designed model in terms of total received power and bit error rate for clear ocean waters. Our simulation results show that the detector aperture and FOV has an impact towards a successful communication in the distance from 5 to 20 m. In addition, results show that the FOV is an affecting factor only in the presence of larger aperture sizes of the detector.
Phylogeography and taxonomic status of trout and salmon from the Ponto‐Caspian drainages, with inferences on European Brown Trout evolution and taxonomy
Authors: Ninua Levan , Tarkhnishvili David , Gvazava Elguja
Published: February 2018

Current taxonomy of western Eurasian trout leaves a number of questions open; it is not clear to what extent some species are distinct genetically and morphologically. The purpose of this paper was to explore phylogeography and species boundaries in freshwater and anadromous trout from the drainages of the Black and the Caspian Seas (Ponto‐Caspian). We studied morphology and mitochondrial phylogeny, combining samples from the western Caucasus within the potential range of five nominal species of trout that are thought to inhabit this region, and using the sequences available from GenBank. Our results suggest that the genetic diversity of trout in the Ponto‐Caspian region is best explained with the fragmentation of catchments. (1) All trout species from Ponto‐Caspian belong to the same mitochondrial clade, separated from the other trout since the Pleistocene; (2) the southeastern Black Sea area is the most likely place of diversification of this clade, which is closely related to the clades from Anatolia; (3) The species from the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea drainages are monophyletic; (4) except for the basal lineage of the Ponto‐Caspian clade,Salmo rizeensis, all the lineages produce anadromous forms; (5) genetic diversification within the Ponto‐Caspian clade is related to Pleistocene glacial waves; (6) the described morphological differences between the species are not fully diagnostic, and some earlier described differences depend on body size; the differences between freshwater and marine forms exceed those between the different lineages. We suggest a conservative taxonomic approach, using the namesS. rizeensisandSalmo labraxfor trout from the Black Sea basin andSalmo caspiusandSalmo ciscaucasicusfor the fish from the Caspian basin.
Acid‐Promoted Cascade Reaction of N‐(4‐Chloroquinolin‐3‐yl)carbamates with Amines: One‐Pot Assembly of Imidazo[4,5‐c]quinolin‐2‐ones
Authors: Lu Xiao , Kim Myunghoon , Orr Meghan J. , Li Hao , Huang Wenwei
Published: February 2018

An acid‐promoted cascade reaction of N‐(4‐chloroquinolin‐3‐yl)carbamates with amines is described. This method achieves the formation of two new C–N bonds through an intermolecular amination/intramolecular cyclization reaction sequence. In combination with a subsequent Suzuki coupling reaction, this three‐component telescopic procedure provides rapid access to various bioactive imidazo[4,5‐c]quinolin‐2‐one derivatives.
Fluorine‐Containing Functionalized Cyclopentene Scaffolds Through Ring Contraction and Deoxofluorination of Various Substituted Cyclohexenes
Authors: Remete Attila Márió , Nonn Melinda , Fustero Santos , Haukka Matti , Fülöp Ferenc , Kiss Loránd
Published: February 2018

The fluorination of some highly‐functionalized cyclopentene derivatives, obtained from various substituted cyclohexenes through a ring‐opening/ring‐contraction procedure, has been investigated. The transformations were found to be highly substrate dependent, and led to the formation of various functionalized alicyclic compounds or heterocycles containing allyl difluoride or vinyl fluoride moieties.
Grappling with the social dimensions of novel ecosystems
Authors: Backstrom Anna C , Garrard Georgia E , Hobbs Richard J , Bekessy Sarah A
Published: February 2018

The novel ecosystem concept has emerged in response to the increasing prevalence of modified ecosystems. Traditional conservation and restoration strategies have been deemed inadequate to guide the management of ecosystems that are the product of anthropogenic environmental change and have no “natural” analogs. Opinions about novel ecosystems are currently divided between those who embrace the flexibility offered by the concept and those who see it as a shift toward the abandonment of traditional strategies. However, the debate is missing a key element: recognition that all conservation decisions are socially constructed and that the concept of novel ecosystems is most practicable within a decision or management context. Management of novel ecosystems should be framed in such a context, and the concept evaluated for its capacity to meet social, ecological, and economic objectives.
A model for implementing sustainable mHealth applications in a resource‐constrained setting: A case of Malawi
Authors: Pankomera Richard , van Greunen Darelle
Published: February 2018

The proliferation of mobile devices in a resource‐constrained setting like Malawi has created an enabling environment for the deployment of mobile health (mHealth) applications. These applications offer various services such as maternal and child health, nutrition, and HIV management in different localised places in Malawi. Unfortunately, most of these applications are pilot projects that are not centrally managed by the government. The downside of this approach is that most projects are not scaled up once they are completed. As a result, there is no continuity of the mHealth projects. Because of a lack of coordination, lessons learned from one projects are not propagated to other projects. The lack of sustainability of mHealth projects wastes a lot of resources. The comprehensive literature study and semistructured interviews in public health and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector in Malawi further highlighted the following challenges: poor infrastructure, lack of proper policy and regulation, lack of human skills and development, lack of financial resources, and poor ICT governance. Guiding policies were subsequently proposed to circumvent the aforementioned challenges. An ICT model is therefore proposed to effectively manage the sustainability of mHealth projects in Malawi. The proposed model has the following phases: solution requirement, strategy for project execution, implementation of the solution, and monitoring and evaluation. The model was further validated by 5 experts selected from different areas of expertise including mHealth application developers, ICT policymakers, and public health practitioners. Results show that the model is relevant, useful, and applicable within the setting of Malawi. It is therefore envisaged that the model can be used by policymakers, decision makers, and ICT implementers for the smooth utilisation of resources and the sustainability of mHealth applications in Malawi.
Label‐free quantification of the effects of lithium niobate polarization on cell adhesion via holographic microscopy
Authors: Mandracchia Biagio , Gennari Oriella , Bramanti Alessia , Grilli Simonetta , Ferraro Pietro
Published: February 2018

The surface of a c− cut ferroelectric crystal at room temperature is characterized by the so‐called screening surface charges, able to compensate the charge due to the spontaneous polarization. Recently, these charges inspired the investigation of the interaction affinity of live cells with lithium niobate and lithium tantalate crystals. However, different knowledge gaps still remain that prevent a reasonable application of these materials for biological applications. Here, a label‐free holographic total internal reflection microscopy is shown; the technique is able to evaluate quantitatively the contact area of live fibroblast cells adhering onto the surface of a ferroelectric lithium niobate crystal. The results show values of contact area significantly different between cells adhering onto the positive or negative face of the crystal. This reinforces the reasons for using the polarization charge of these materials to study and/or control cellular processes and, thus, to develop an innovative platform based on polar dielectric functional substrates.
Differential‐fed printed monopole antenna loaded with half cylindrical DR for UWB handheld device application
Authors: Lu Liang , Jiao Yong‐Chang , Zhang Li , Cui Chao‐Yi , Wang Rui‐Qi
Published: February 2018

Loaded with dielectric resonator (DR), a differential‐fed printed monopole antenna is proposed and investigated. Consisting of a half sector cylindrical DR and a two‐layer dielectric substrate, the antenna has a pair of differential‐fed monopoles acting as radiator as well as feeding network for the DR. When the DR is loaded, the differential reflection coefficient bandwidth is improved from 52.95% to 115.4%. Moreover, different from the traditional antenna, cross polarization of the antenna can radiate in co‐polarization null radiation pattern regions in E‐plane. So, cross polarization and co‐polarization can together radiate omnidirectional patterns in E‐plane, which indicates that the antenna can be used as handheld device to receive signals efficiently.
Grounded CPW multi‐band wearable antenna for MBAN and WLAN applications
Authors: Hosseini Varkiani Seyed Mohsen , Afsahi Majid
Published: February 2018

In this paper, a grounded CPW‐fed multi‐band (GCM) wearable antenna for WLAN and medical application is presented. The multi‐band antenna operated at 2.4 GHz, 3.5 GHz, 6 GHz, and 6.7 GHz with a size of 58.5 mm × 62 mm. The grounded CPW consists of T‐shape silver fabric for radiating patch and defected rectangular ground plane. The antenna fabricated and tested on two different substrate, the non‐woven layer and cotton layer with dielectric constant 1.15, thickness 5 mm, and dielectric constant 1.65 with thickness 1 mm, respectively. The numerical and experimental result for different bending conditions are studied and also the antenna implementation on cotton layer using adhesive and sewing are compared. In different bending condition and different fabrication structures the result shows a good agreement between measurement results and simulations. The comparison confirms that the GCM wearable antenna could be a good candidate for wearable WLAN applications.
Multilayer liquid metamaterial radome design for performance enhancement of microstrip patch antenna
Authors: Patel Shobhit K. , Shah Karan H. , Kosta Y. P.
Published: February 2018

In this manuscript microstrip patch antenna loaded with multilayer liquid metamaterial radome (superstrate) structures for gain enhancement is presented. The antenna superstrate is loaded with three ring split ring resonator (SRR) metamaterial. Two multilayer radome structures used for enhancement of gain and protection of conventional microstrip patch antenna. First multilayer structure is made with six equal layers of three ring SRR and second multilayer structure is made with four log periodic layers of three ring SRR. The microstrip patch antenna loaded with multilayer SRR radome structure is compared with conventional microstrip patch antenna. The results of proposed design are compared in form of reflection coefficient, gain and bandwidth. The enhancement in gain is achieved by covering antenna with different radome structures.
Design and analysis of a resonator based metamaterial for sensor applications
Authors: Rahman M. N. , Islam M. T. , Samsuzzaman M.
Published: February 2018

A resonator based metamaterial for sensor application is studied in this paper. The resonator is encompassed by a partial ground plane and excited by a microstrip feed‐line. As the resonator, partial ground frame, and the feeding transmission line are on the same microstrip, the measurement can be executed by using the common laboratory facility instead of using the waveguide. The proposed metamaterial occupies a compact size of 20 × 20 mm2 and is imprinted on a low‐cost FR4 substrate. The substrate has a relative permittivity of 4.6 with a dielectric loss tangent of 0.02. The resonator and the ground frame are placed on the similar part of the substrate and the feed‐line is placed on the other part of the substrate. In metamaterial design, normally arrays of metamaterial unit cells are needed, whereas this study presents only one cell, which can achieve the metamaterial properties. The characteristic parameters are fetched and analyzed to find the concurrency between the simulated and measured results. The presented metamaterial is applied in sensor applications where the simulated and measured results reveal considerable agreement.
A single frequency narrow linewidth fiber laser based on quasi‐π‐phase‐shifted grating
Authors: She L. J. , Zhang D. T. , Wang X. L. , Chen D. R.
Published: February 2018

We propose and demonstrate a single frequency narrow linewidth fiber laser composed of the quasi‐π‐phase‐shifted grating (QπPSG) with a short line cavity and a structure of distributed feedback. On the high‐precision displacement platform, quasi‐π phase shift is introduced between two uniform fiber Bragg gratings based on a high‐concentration Erbium‐doped fiber (EDF) by ultraviolet exposure. Coupling the 980 nm pumped light to the QπPSG, the obtained laser is further amplified using a section of low‐concentration EDF. The single frequency lasing is achieved with a central wavelength of 1550.5 nm, and a slope efficiency of about 5.7%.
Design and development of vivaldi antenna array for wind profiler RADAR application
Authors: Prakash Anand , Chattoraj Neela , Shukla Satya Bhushan
Published: February 2018

Wind velocity profile are required for the study of atmospheric phenomena and weather forecasting. Atmospheric radar is a remote sensing instruments, which can observe the air motion of the troposphere with high degrees of accuracy. Wind Profile Radar (WPR) can provide the three dimensional profile of wind velocities and wind direction of each layer of atmosphere in real time and has become crucial to the world today. In this article, the Vivaldi antenna array is designed and developed for WPR that would operate at center frequency of 1.35 GHz and the VSWR <2 over frequency range from 1.25 to 1.45 GHz and also to design and develop 1:4 equal Split Wilkinson Power divider. The microstrip design is optimized and utilized in a corporate‐feeding network for an antenna array. The return loss, coupling, and isolation between the ports of power divider are evaluated to determine the design. Antenna array and the power divider network are mounted back to back on Aluminum plate. VSWR <2 over the band and isolation between outputs ports of power divider are critical design requirements.
Figure of merit of X‐type hexaferrite (Ba2Co2Fe28O46) for mobile antenna applications
Authors: Lee Woncheol , Hong Yang‐Ki , Choi Minyeong , Won Hoyun , Lee Jaejin , Jung Myung‐Hwa , Bae Seok
Published: February 2018

We report a Ba2Co2Fe28O46 (Co2X) hexaferrite, which has a high figure of merit (FOM = μ′/tan δμ) over the frequency range from 800 MHz to 1 GHz. The Co2X hexaferrite was prepared by the conventional solid‐state reaction. The calcined and sintered Co2X hexaferrites were characterized with a vibrating sample magnetometer and an impedance analyzer for their static and dynamic magnetic properties. The sintered Co2X hexaferrite shows 67.3 emu/g of saturation magnetization, 10.5 kOe of anisotropy field, and 0.03 of low magnetic loss tangent with relatively high permeability of 2.07 at 1 GHz, resulting in FOM of 69. This is the highest FOM among the reported microwave magnetic materials over the frequency range from 800 MHz to 1 GHz, which has not been previously reported. Therefore, the developed Co2X hexaferrite is suitable for antenna applications at the low‐frequency bands of mobile wireless communications.
Flow MRI simulation in complex 3D geometries: Application to the cerebral venous network
Authors: Fortin Alexandre , Salmon Stéphanie , Baruthio Joseph , Delbany Maya , Durand Emmanuel
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Develop and evaluate a complete tool to include 3D fluid flows in MRI simulation, leveraging from existing software. Simulation of MR spin flow motion is of high interest in the study of flow artifacts and angiography. However, at present, only a few simulators include this option and most are restricted to static tissue imaging.

Theory and methods

An extension of JEMRIS, one of the most advanced high performance open‐source simulation platforms to date, was developed. The implementation of a Lagrangian description of the flow allows simulating any MR experiment, including both static tissues and complex flow data from computational fluid dynamics. Simulations of simple flow models are compared with real experiments on a physical flow phantom. A realistic simulation of 3D flow MRI on the cerebral venous network is also carried out.

Results

Simulations and real experiments are in good agreement. The generality of the framework is illustrated in 2D and 3D with some common flow artifacts (misregistration and inflow enhancement) and with the three main angiographic techniques: phase contrast velocimetry (PC), time‐of‐flight, and contrast‐enhanced imaging MRA.

Conclusion

The framework provides a versatile and reusable tool for the simulation of any MRI experiment including physiological fluids and arbitrarily complex flow motion.
Delivery of adipose‐derived stem cells in poloxamer hydrogel improves peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Allbright Kassandra O. , Bliley Jacqueline M. , Havis Emmanuelle , Kim Deok‐Yeol , Dibernardo Gabriella A. , Grybowski Damian , Waldner Matthias , James Isaac B. , Sivak Wesley N. , Rubin J. Peter , Marra Kacey G.
Published: February 2018

Introduction: Peripheral nerve damage is associated with high long‐term morbidity. Because of beneficial secretome, immunomodulatory effects, and ease of clinical translation, transplantation with adipose‐derived stem cells (ASC) represents a promising therapeutic modality. Methods: Effect of ASC delivery in poloxamer hydrogel was assessed in a rat sciatic nerve model of critical‐sized (1.5 cm) peripheral nerve injury. Nerve/muscle unit regeneration was assessed via immunostaining explanted nerve, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and histological analysis of reinnervating gastrocnemius muscle. Results: On the basis of viability data, 10% poloxamer hydrogel was selected for in vivo study. Six weeks after transection and repair, the group treated with poloxamer delivered ASCs demonstrated longest axonal regrowth. The qPCR results indicated that the inclusion of ASCs appeared to result in expression of factors that aid in reinnervating muscle tissue. Discussion: Delivery of ASCs in poloxamer addresses multiple facets of the complexity of nerve/muscle unit regeneration, representing a promising avenue for further study. Muscle Nerve 58: 251–260, 2018
BFGS‐like updates of constraint preconditioners for sequences of KKT linear systems in quadratic programming
Authors: Bergamaschi L. , De Simone V. , di Serafino D. , Martínez A.
Published: February 2018

We focus on efficient preconditioning techniques for sequences of Karush‐Kuhn‐Tucker (KKT) linear systems arising from the interior point (IP) solution of large convex quadratic programming problems. Constraint preconditioners (CPs), although very effective in accelerating Krylov methods in the solution of KKT systems, have a very high computational cost in some instances, because their factorization may be the most time‐consuming task at each IP iteration. We overcome this problem by computing the CP from scratch only at selected IP iterations and by updating the last computed CP at the remaining iterations, via suitable low‐rank modifications based on a BFGS‐like formula. This work extends the limited‐memory preconditioners (LMPs) for symmetric positive definite matrices proposed by Gratton, Sartenaer and Tshimanga in 2011, by exploiting specific features of KKT systems and CPs. We prove that the updated preconditioners still belong to the class of exact CPs, thus allowing the use of the conjugate gradient method. Furthermore, they have the property of increasing the number of unit eigenvalues of the preconditioned matrix as compared with the generally used CPs. Numerical experiments are reported, which show the effectiveness of our updating technique when the cost for the factorization of the CP is high.
High chemical and solvent resistant, branched terpene methacrylate polymers—Preparation, thermal properties, and decomposition mechanism
Authors: Worzakowska Marta
Published: February 2018

Branched terpene methacrylate polymers under UV‐polymerization process of methacrylates prepared based on naturally occurring terpene alcohols such as geraniol, nerol, and citronellol have been obtained. Amine catalysed reaction of geraniol, nerol, or citronellol with methacryloyl chloride allowed obtaining terpene methacrylate monomers with high yield. Their structure was confirmed by spectroscopic methods (1HNMR, 13CNMR, ATR‐FTIR). The structure of the resulting polymers was evaluated by applying the 13C/CP MAS and ATR‐FTIR. The chosen physicochemical properties such as chemical resistance, solvent resistance, and thermal properties in inert and oxidative atmospheres have been studied. In addition, the detailed pyrolysis and oxidative degradation mechanism by applying the TG/DSC/FTIR/QMS‐coupled method was evaluated. The results indicated the potential application of novel, branched terpene methacrylate polymers for manufacturing products which could be utilized under corrosive conditions, due to their high resistance in both acidic and basic environments and different polarity solvents, as well as satisfactory thermal resistance.
The influence of mesoporous SiO2‐graphene hybrid improved the flame retardancy of epoxy resins
Authors: Liu Jiajia , Yuen Richard K. K. , Hong Ningning , Hu Yuan
Published: February 2018

A novel mesoporous SiO2‐graphene nanohybrid was successfully synthesized by a 1‐pot hydrothermal synthesis method using tetraethylortho silicate and graphene oxide as initial materials to improve the dispersion of graphene in epoxy matrix. Subsequently, the SiO2‐graphene nanohybrids were added into epoxy resin to investigate their fire behaviors. It was found that the incorporation of the as‐prepared SiO2‐graphene nanohybrids into epoxy resin obviously increased the flame retardancy, compared with those of neat epoxy. This attractive feature of SiO2‐graphene epoxy nanocomposites was attributed to the barrier effect as well as the labyrinth effect contributed by SiO2‐graphene in EP resin.
Comparison of bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage findings in three types of suppurative lung disease
Authors: de Vries Jorrit J. V. , Chang Anne B. , Marchant Julie M.
Published: February 2018

Background

Endobronchial suppuration is present in children with protracted bacterial bronchitis (PBB), bronchiectasis, and cystic fibrosis (CF). However, no studies have directly compared bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) findings across these conditions within a single center using the same techniques and with shared community pathogens.

Aim

To determine; (i) the bronchoscopic findings and BAL microbiology and cellularity among children with these conditions and; (ii) the relationship between bacterial pathogens, airway cellularity and aberrant macroscopic bronchoscopic findings.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all bronchoscopy data (undertaken over 6.5‐years) from our center in children (<6 years; n = 316) meeting definitions of PBB (n = 125), bronchiectasis (n = 138), and CF (n = 53).

Results

The children's median age was 26‐months (Interquartile range (IQR) = 16‐43). Children with PBB and bronchiectasis had higher rates of Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae infection, whereas children with CF had frequent Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus infections. Novel findings include detection of cytomegalovirus and Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) (by polymerase chain reaction) in children with PBB (26%, 17%, respectively) and bronchiectasis (27%, 29%). Median airway neutrophil percentage was significantly higher in CF (68%; IQR = 42‐83) compared to PBB (36%; IQR = 18‐68) and bronchiectasis (22%; IQR = 8‐64) (P < 0.0001), despite lower rates of infection. Presence of malacia did not significantly impact on infection or inflammation.

Conclusion

In this first study to directly compare bronchoscopic data among young children with PBB, bronchiectasis, and CF, microbiological patterns of airway infections and neutrophilia varied. Our findings of cytomegalovirus and EBV detection in children with PBB and bronchiectasis require confirmation and further evaluation.
The impact of staffing model in a 6‐day rehabilitation physiotherapy service
Authors: Caruana E. L. , Kuys S.S. , Clarke J. , Brauer S.G.
Published: February 2018

Background and Purpose

The impact of staffing model providing weekend physiotherapy rehabilitation has not been evaluated. This study aims to determine the impact of staffing a weekend rehabilitation service with physiotherapists currently working in rehabilitation compared to acute hospital physiotherapists, on length of stay (LOS), functional independence and gait and balance, and to determine the impact on neurological, orthopaedic, and reconditioning diagnostic groups.

Methods

A prospective cohort study with historical control was completed in a private, metropolitan Australian rehabilitation unit. All participants admitted to the rehabilitation unit over two, 20‐week periods in 2011 and 2012 were included. Weekend physiotherapy was provided by physiotherapists working in rehabilitation in 2012 (intervention) and physiotherapists working in the acute wards in 2011 (control). Outcomes included LOS, Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and gait and balance measures.

Results

Overall, there were 504 participants; 234 in 2012 and 270 in 2011. No difference was found in LOS between staffing models (mean difference−1.5 days, 95%CI −4.4 to 1.3). Greater FIM change (mean difference 3.5, 95%CI 0.3 to 6.7) and efficiency (FIM change/LOS: mean difference 0.3, 95%CI 0.1 to 0.5) were found with rehabilitation compared to acute staffing. There was no between‐group difference in gait or balance performance. When diagnostic groups were compared, no difference in LOS was found between staffing models. Participants with an orthopaedic diagnosis had a significantly greater FIM change (mean difference 3.8, 95%CI 0.4 to 7.1), whereas FIM efficiency was improved in neurological (mean difference 0.4, 95%CI 0.1 to 0.7) and orthopaedic populations (mean difference 0.3, 95%CI 0.03 to 0.5) with rehabilitation staffing.

Discussion

Staffing a weekend rehabilitation service with physiotherapists currently working in rehabilitation influences functional independence. Different diagnostic groups appear to respond differently.
InAs0.7Sb0.3 Bulk Photodiodes Operating at Thermoelectric‐Cooler Temperatures
Authors: Il'inskaya Natalya D. , Karandashev Sergey A. , Lavrov Al'bert A. , Matveev Boris A. , Remennyi Maxim A. , Stus’ Nicolay M. , Usikova Anna A.
Published: February 2018

Current–voltage and photoelectrical characteristics of InAs0.7Sb0.3 photodiodes grown onto InAs substrates are investigated in the interval of 212–330 K, i.e., the “thermoelectrical temperature range”. The impacts of mesa diameter, buffer layer thickness, and cooling on the zero‐bias resistance and spectral responsivity are described and analyzed. At low temperatures, the dynamic zero‐bias resistance dominat the serial one, resulting in the specific detectivity at 6.5 µm and at T = 233 K being as high as 3.2 · 108 cm Hz1/2 W−1 for a flat‐plate photodiode.
Structure and Electrical Conductivity of Irradiated BaTiO3 Nanoparticles
Authors: Shameer Ahmed Basheer , Nandaprakash Mysuru Basavaraju , Namratha Keerthiraj , Byrappa Kullaiah , Somashekar Rudrappa
Published: February 2018

The effects of gamma irradiation on hydrothermally synthesized BaTiO3 nanoparticles have been investigated. Gamma irradiation is carried out at room temperature from 0, 50, 100, 150, 200 kGy to maximum dosage up to 250 kGy with 60Co source. Prepared BaTiO3 nanoparticles are investigated using line profile analysis employing X‐ray diffraction (XRD) data; the structure, size, dielectric and conductivity properties of the BaTiO3 are studied using Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and impedance analyzer. The post‐irradiation volume of the BaTiO3 unit cell increases with dosage and most of the cells possess a modified tetragonal structure. The Grüneisen constant is high for 242 cm−1 optical modes with 150 kGy and lowest for 516 cm−1 optical mode for 50 kGy irradiation. The morphology changes and particle size decreases as the radiation dose is increased. Conductivity (σ) increases with the increase in radiation dose, especially at 50 kGy. Cole–Cole plot is suggestive of the depolarization nature of irradiated BaTiO3 nanoparticles.
An orbital localization criterion based on the topological analysis of the electron localization function at correlated level
Authors: Alcoba Diego R. , Oña Ofelia B. , Torre Alicia , Lain Luis , Tiznado William
Published: February 2018

This work describes a procedure for localizing orbitals based on the topological analysis of the electron localization function at correlated level. The decomposition of the overlap matrix according to the partitioning of the three dimensional physical space into basins provided by that function allows us to define a localization index to be maximized using isopycnic orbital transformations. The localization algorithm has been computationally implemented and its efficiency tested on selected molecular systems at equilibrium, stretched, and twisted geometries. We report results which allow to analyze the influence of the correlated and uncorrelated treatments on the orbital localization.
Synthesis and Immobilization of Benzothiazole‐Appended Triazole‐Silane: Biological Evaluation and Molecular Docking Approach
Authors: Singh Gurjaspreet , Chowdhary Kavita , Satija Pinky , Singh Akshpreet , Singh Baljinder , Singh Kashmir , Espinosa Cristóbal , Esteban M. Angeles , Sehgal Rakesh , Verma Vikas
Published: February 2018

The present work involves the synthesis of Benzothiazole capped triazole‐silane (3) by ‘Click Silylation’ and its immobilization onto silica surface. This new silane is characterised by IR, 1H, 13C spectroscopy. TGA, TEM and SEM were the evidence for its adsorption at silica surface. The anti‐parasitic, anti bacterial and anti oxidant activity of synthesised compounds was evaluated. The results shows that nanoparticle of silane displayed more significant activity as compared to benzothiazole derived silane (3) against G. lamblia, T. vaginalis, various bacterial strains (E.coli, Bacillus subtillus, Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio cholera) and showed potential anti‐oxidant activity. Further Molecular docking study was performed to analyse the binding manner and enzyme inhibitory activity of compound‐3 with β‐glucuronidase.
A Sustainable Synthesis of Functionalized Pyrrole Fused Coumarins under Solvent‐Free Conditions Using Magnetic Nanocatalyst and a New Route to Polyaromatic Indolocoumarins
Authors: Mukherjee Sayan , Sarkar Soumen , Pramanik Animesh
Published: February 2018

A general and environmentally benign one‐pot method has been developed for the library synthesis of biologically important chromeno[4, 3‐b]pyrrol‐4(1H)‐one derivatives. A three‐component domino condensation of 4‐aminocoumrins, arylglyoxal monohydrates and various nucleophilic substrates, such as, arylamines, malononitrile, ethyl cyanoacetate and cyanoacetamide produced functionalized chromeno[4, 3‐b]pyrrol‐4(1H)‐ones in presence of magnetically separable Fe3O4@SiO2‐SO3H nanoparticles as solid acid catalyst under solvent free conditions. Furthermore, a two‐component condensation of 4‐aminocoumrins and arylglyoxal monohydrates furnished a series of hydroxy functionalized chromeno[4, 3‐b]pyrrol‐4(1H)‐ones under similar reaction conditions. The salient features of the present method are mild reaction conditions, reduced reaction time, elimination of hazardous solvents, good yield of the products, greater substrate scope and use of a magnetically separable and recyclable nanocatalyst. Moreover, it has been observed that a class of chromeno[4, 3‐b]pyrrol‐4(1H)‐one derivatives can be easily converted to biologically important indolo[3, 2‐c]coumarin derivatives in good yield through intramolecular thermal cyclization without using any catalyst.
Direct Aerobic Strategy for Synthesis of Imines via Alcohols and Amines Promoted by Ruthenium(II) (η6‐p‐cymene) Complexes
Authors: Manikandan Thimma Sambamoorthy , Ramesh Rengan , Shivalingegowda Naveen , Krishnappagowda Lokanath Neratur
Published: February 2018

Neutral ruthenium(II) p‐cymene complexes were synthesised by complexation of [Ru(η6‐p‐cymene)(μ‐Cl)Cl]2 with substituted methyl‐2‐pyrrolyl ketone benzhydrazone ligands in good yields. The characterization of the synthesised complexes was accomplished by analytical and spectroscopic techniques (FT‐IR, UV‐Vis, NMR, and ESI‐MS). Crystal structures of two of the complexes exhibited that the hydrazone ligand was bonded to ruthenium ion in a bidentate fashion via imine nitrogen and imidolate oxygen and witnessed ruthenium centered pseudo‐octahedral geometry. The catalytic feasibility of these Ru(II) complexes was explored for the direct aerobic synthesis of imine from the coupling of alcohols and amines in toluene medium with Cs2CO3 as a base without molecular sieves or any additives. The scope and versatility of the present catalytic system were performed with the diverse range of alcohols and amines such as primary/secondary aromatic, aliphatic, heteroaromatic, cyclic as well as chiral substrates under open atmospheric condition. Further, the tolerance of steric and electronic effects on substrates was evaluated. Besides, the effect of promoters on the reaction including solvents, bases, temperatures and catalyst loading was carried out as well.
Structuring of Amide Cross‐Linked Non‐Bridged and Bridged Alkyl‐Based Silsesquioxanes
Authors: Nunes S. C. , de Zea Bermudez V.
Published: February 2018

The development of sophisticated organized materials exhibiting enhanced properties is a challenging topic of the domain of organic/inorganic hybrid materials. This review, composed of four sections, reports the work we have carried out over the last 10 years on the synthesis of amide cross‐linked alkyl/siloxane hybrids by means of sol‐gel chemistry and self‐directed assembly/self‐organization routes relying on weak interactions (hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding). The various as‐produced lamellar structures displaying a myriad of morphologies, often closely resembling those found in natural materials, are discussed. The major role played by the synthetic conditions (pH, water content, co‐solvent(s) nature/concentration and dopant presence/concentration), the alkyl chains (length and presence of ramification or not) and the number of the amide cross‐links present in the precursor, is evidenced. Examples of highly organized hybrids structures incorporating ionic species (alkali and alkaline earth metal salts) and optically‐active centers (organic dyes and lanthanide ions) are described. A useful qualitative relationship deduced between the emission quantum yield of the ordered hybrid materials and the degree of order of the hydrogen‐bonded network is highlighted.
Anomaly detection in time series based on interval sets
Authors: Ren Huorong , Liu Mingming , Liao Xiujuan , Liang Li , Ye Zhixing , Li Zhiwu
Published: February 2018

Anomaly detection in time series is a popular topic focusing on a variety of applications, which achieves a wealth of results. However, there are many cases of missing anomalies and false alarms for most existing works. Inspired by the concept of interval sets, this paper proposes an anomaly detection algorithm called probability interval and tries to detect the anomaly data in time series from a new perspective. In the proposed algorithm, a time series is divided into several subsequences. Each subsequence is regarded as an interval set depending on its value space and boundary of the subsequence. The similarity measurements between interval sets adopt interval operations and point probability distributions of the interval bounds. In addition, based on similarity results, the anomaly score is defined. The experimental results on artificial and real datasets indicate that the proposed algorithm has better discriminative performance than the piecewise aggregate approximation method and greatly reduces the false alarm rate. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
American College of Surgeons Member Involvement in Global Surgery: Results from the 2015 Operation Giving Back Survey
Authors: Boeck Marissa A. , Goodman Laura F. , Lin Yihan , Wilczak Brittanie , Tefera Girma
Published: February 2018

Background

Five billion people worldwide lack access to safe surgery. American College of Surgeons (ACS) members have a strong history of humanitarian and volunteer work. Since its founding in 2004, Operation Giving Back (OGB) has served as a volunteer resource portal. This study sought to understand current activities, needs, and barriers to ACS member volunteerism, and to re‐assess the role of OGB.

Methods

A 25‐question electronic survey was sent to ACS members in August 2015. Utilizing branching logic, those who were involved or interested in volunteerism completed the full survey. Data were assessed using univariable analysis methods.

Results

Three percent (n = 1764) of those e‐mailed answered the survey. Respondents were mostly men (82%), ≥50 years of age (61%), and general surgeons (70%). Fifty‐three percent (n = 937) reported current or past volunteer activities, and 76.5% (n = 1349) were interested in activities within three years. Approximately 84% were interested in international volunteerism and 55% in domestic volunteerism. Few (5.7%) had both training and experience in emergency and disaster response, and only 17% had institutional salary support. Eighty‐two percent wished to work with OGB, and 418 indicated organizations with whom they are involved could benefit from OGB collaboration.

Conclusions

Interest in surgical volunteerism among ACS member survey respondents is high. OGB has the opportunity to meet member needs by developing programmatic activities, identifying volunteer prospects, facilitating multi‐institutional consortia, and leading pre‐deployment training. By maximizing volunteer efforts, OGB has the potential to foster sustainable and scalable ethical practices to improve basic access to surgical care globally.
Understanding the Functional Mobility of Adults with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) Through the International Classification of Functioning (ICF)
Authors: Scott-Roberts Sally , Purcell Catherine
Published: February 2018

Purpose of Review

This phenomenological study explored the lived experience of six adults with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and its potential impact on functional mobility. Utilising the International Classification of Functioning (World Health Organisation, 2001), the data derived from interviews were analysed to consider how persistent motor impairments impact on activity engagement and participation.

Recent Findings

Much of the research evidence pertaining to DCD focuses on children. However, there is increasing acknowledgment that for some, the motor impairments synonymous with DCD continue into adulthood.

The findings from this study suggest that for this group of participants, functional mobility can be compromised, restricting activity and participation. At a body structure/function level, participants identified additional impairments that moved beyond mobility, suggesting that the secondary consequences of fatigue and anxiety were disabling. However, personal factors were seen to mitigate some difficulties encountered to allow participants to remain actively engaged in a range of adult roles.
Public Procurement as a Tool for the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights: a Study of Collaboration, Due Diligence and Leverage in the Electronics Industry
Authors: MARTIN-ORTEGA Olga
Published: February 2018

This article explores the innovative use of public procurement as a tool to respect, protect and promote human rights by capitalizing on the significant leverage that public buyers have over corporate practices in their supply chain. It provides an analysis of Electronics Watch, an organization that focuses on the role of states’ own procurement practices as central to the state duty to protect the human rights of those who are affected by its activities as an economic actor. Through the assessment of the Electronics Watch model this article argues that by bringing together the economic leverage of public buyers and corporate human rights due diligence, one can create transformative tools for the improvement of working conditions in global supply chains.
Freedom and Force: Essays on Kant’s Legal Philosophy edited by Sari Kisilevsky and Martin J Stone*
Authors: Sage Nick
Published: February 2018

This review considers some criticisms made of Arthur Ripstein’s Kantian theory of private law. Authors in this collection are Japa Pallikkathayil, Katrin Flikschuh, Andrea Sangiovanni, AJ Julius, George Pavlakos, Daniel Weinstock, Allen Wood, and Martin J Stone, with reply by Arthur Ripstein. The review itself focuses on the problematic role in Ripstein’s theory of individual choice or purposiveness in the light of the work of the eight critics.
Transfer by Contract in Kant, Hegel, and Comparative Law
Authors: Sérafin Stéphane
Published: February 2018

Kant and Hegel offer two very different accounts of contract as a transfer of rights. In this paper, I argue that Kant’s approach largely corresponds to that taken by the German legal system, in which the transfer of property rights arises separately from the original contractual obligation. Hegel’s account of contract is instead most comfortably associated with the approach taken by the French legal system, in which a contract is sufficient on its own to effect a full transfer of property rights. I conclude that only German law and Kantian transfer theory properly conceive of contract as an obligation, while the Hegelian and French approaches risk erasing the obligational content of contract entirely.