bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of pressure and impurities on oxidation in supercritical CO2
Authors: Pint Bruce A. , Lehmusto Juho , Lance Michael J. , Keiser James R.
Published: April 2019

Both indirect‐ and direct‐fired supercritical CO2 cycles for high‐efficiency power generation are expected to have impurities that may greatly alter the compatibility of Fe‐ and Ni‐based structural alloys in these environments. Recent work has attempted to quantify reaction rates at 750°C in simulated laboratory environments with controlled impurity levels at ambient pressure, as well as under supercritical conditions (30 MPa). With low impurity levels in research and industrial‐grade CO
2, pressure appeared to have only a limited effect on oxide thickness and internal oxidation and reaction products were similar to those formed in laboratory air. However, a direct‐fired simulation at 750°C/30 MPa in CO
2 + 1%O
2 + 0.25%H
2O has found an increased mass gain and characterization after 2,500‐hr exposures have found thicker reaction products, especially for Fe‐based alloys. At these impurity levels, pressure may have a significant effect on the role of impurities.
Volatilization kinetics of chromium oxide, manganese oxide, and manganese chromium spinel at high temperatures in environments containing water vapor
Authors: Stenzel Alexander , Fähsing Diana , Schütze Michael , Galetz Mathias C.
Published: April 2019

Performance degradation of solid oxide fuel cells due to chromium volatilization is a well‐investigated issue in the literature. Therefore, retention coatings were developed to distinctly reduce the chromium volatilization. One approach was by alloying with manganese to ferritic steels to form manganese chromium spinel which is reported to decrease chromium volatilization by 61–75%. In the present paper, the volatilization rates of pure manganese chromium spinel ceramics were examined as well as those of the two oxides forming this spinel—pure chromium oxide and pure manganese oxide—in synthetic air containing 10% water vapor (high p(O2)) and argon/hydrogen containing 10% water vapor (low p(O2)) at 850°C, 950°C, and 1,050°C. Chromium oxide showed higher volatilization rates in high p(O2), whereas manganese oxide demonstrated higher volatilization rates in low p(O2). Contradictory to the literature, manganese chromium spinel displayed the highest volatilization rates in both atmospheres and nonlinear kinetics behavior. This deviation from linear behavior can be attributed to diffusion‐controlled volatilization in high p(O2).
‐Theory for Schrödinger systems
Authors: Kunze M. , Lorenzi L. , Maichine A. , Rhandi A.
Published: April 2019

In this article, we study for the ‐realization of the vector‐valued Schrödinger operator . Using a noncommutative version of the Dore–Venni theorem due to Monniaux and Prüss, we prove that the ‐realization of , defined on the intersection of the natural domains of the differential and multiplication operators which form , generates a strongly continuous contraction semigroup on . We also study additional properties of the semigroup such as extension to L1, positivity, ultracontractivity and prove that the generator has compact resolvent.
Single‐stage cross‐facial nerve grafting has a result equivalent to that of two‐stage cross‐facial nerve grafting
Authors: Park Seong Oh , Ha Jeong Hyun , Kim Il‐Kug , Jin Ung Sik , Chang Hak
Published: April 2019

Backgrounds

Cross‐face nerve grafting (CFNG) is an important treatment for patients with facial palsy. Currently, two‐stage CFNG is frequently performed. CFNG is performed first, followed by coaptation when innervation reaches the grafted nerve ending. The present study compared single‐stage CFNG with conventional two‐stage CFNG.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data of 17 patients who underwent CFNG with zygomatic and buccal branch with hypoglossal crossover. Patients with single‐stage (group 1) and two‐stage (group 2) CFNG were comparatively analyzed 2 years postoperatively. There were nine and eight patients in groups 1 and 2, respectively. The patient's perioperative status was measured with imaging and animation using the Yanagihara grade, altitude, and angle differences of the oral commissure and eye closure.

Results

Patients in group 1 could recognize their first postoperative spontaneous movement earlier than those in group 2 (268.3 ± 25.1 days vs. 327.5 ± 51.3 days, respectively, p = 0.015). The Yanagihara grade significantly improved for patients in both groups postoperatively (group 1: 12.8 ± 5.5 to 25.3 ± 6.1, p < 0.01; group 2: 12.4 ± 5.6 to 24.3 ± 5.0, p = 0.012). Height and angle difference of the oral commissure showed a significant improvement during resting and smiling in both groups. Eye closure also showed significant improvement in both groups (group 1: 4.1 ± 0.6 to 2.6 ± 0.5, p < 0.01; group 2: 4.0 ± 0.5 to 2.8 ± 0.7, p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the postoperative improvement rate between the groups.

Conclusions

Single‐stage CFNG shows results equivalent to those of two‐stage CFNG. Single‐stage CFNG is associated with a shorter treatment period and fewer operations.
An external compress‐release protocol induces dynamic elasticity in the porcine bladder: A novel technique for the treatment of overactive bladder?
Authors: Balthazar Andrea , Cullingsworth Zachary E. , Nandanan Naveen , Anele Uzoma , Swavely Natalie R. , Speich John E. , Klausner Adam P.
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Dynamic elasticity is an acutely regulated bladder material property through which filling and passive emptying produce strain softening, and active voiding restores baseline pressure. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that strain softening produced by filling‐passive emptying is equivalent to that produced by compression‐release in a porcine bladder model.

Methods/materials

Latex balloons and ex vivo perfused pig bladders were used for a series of alternating fill‐passive emptying (“Fill”) and external compress‐release (“Press”) protocols. For the Fill protocol balloons/bladders were (1) filled to defined volumes (prestrain softening), (2) filled to capacity to strain soften (reference), and (3) passively emptied to the original volume (poststrain softening). For the Press protocol, balloons/bladders were (1) filled to defined volumes (prestrain softening), (2) externally compressed to reference pressure and then released for five cycles (poststrain softening). After each protocol, bladders were voided with high‐KCl buffer to induce “active” voiding.

Results

In both balloons and porcine bladder, both the Fill and Press protocols produced significant strain softening (P < 0.05) and poststrain softening pressures were not different for Fill and Press protocols (P > 0.05), indicating a similar degree of strain softening with both methods.

Conclusions

Repeated external compression can induce bladder strain softening similar to filling and passive emptying. This technique may represent a means to acutely regulate bladder compliance and potentially be used as a mechanical treatment for urinary urgency.
A commentary on the localisation of the sustainable development goals
Authors: Jones Peter , Comfort Daphne
Published: April 2019

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) embrace an ambitious and wide ranging set of environmental, social, and economic issues designed to effect a transition to a more sustainable future. Although the SDGs are global in nature, there is an increasing awareness that they also have an important local dimension. With this in mind, this commentary paper outlines the characteristics of the SDGs, reviews their importance at the local level, provides some illustrations of how they are being addressed locally within North Western Europe and United Kingdom, and offers some reflections on localising the SDGs. The paper suggests that progress in launching and developing local initiatives within the United Kingdom has, to date, been limited. In part, this reflects the lack of a clear national policy framework for the localisation of the SDGs and in part, it reflects the challenges of raising awareness of the importance of local SDG initiatives and of funding such initiatives. Looking to the future, communications and public relations professionals may have an important role to play in raising awareness of the importance of the SDGs at the local level, and this may help to change hearts and minds in addressing the policy making and financial challenges.
The effect of attached tetracycline and hydrophilic groups on the enhancement of antibacterial effectiveness and low temperature flexibility of polyurethane
Authors: Chung Yong‐Chan , Kim Dong Eui , Choi Jae Won , Chun Byoung Chul
Published: April 2019

Tetracycline was chemically attached to polyurethane (PU) to enhance its antimicrobial activity, and a carboxyl group or polyol was also attached to PU to enhance the hydrophilicity. The attached groups affected cross‐linking, viscosity of PU solution, glass transition of soft segment, breaking tensile stress, reliable shape recovery capability, flexibility at very low temperature, surface hydrophilicity, and antibacterial effectiveness. The glass transition temperature could go up from −67.5°C for unmodified PU to −48.8°C due to the attached tetracycline. The attachment of tetracycline boosted breaking tensile stress and shape recovery by 345% and 186%, respectively, relative to unmodified PU. The attached carboxyl group and polyol improved the hydrophilicity as confirmed by water swelling and water contact angle data. Finally, PU samples with the attached tetracycline demonstrated excellent flexibility at freezing temperature compared with ordinary PU and absolutely inhibited the bacterial growth of S. aureus and K. pneumoniae on PU.
The utilization and challenges of Japan's MID‐NET® medical information database network in postmarketing drug safety assessments: A summary of pilot pharmacoepidemiological studies
Authors: Yamada Kaori , Itoh Maori , Fujimura Yoshiaki , Kimura Michio , Murata Koichiro , Nakashima Naoki , Nakayama Masaharu , Ohe Kazuhiko , Orii Takao , Sueoka Eizaburo , Suzuki Takahiro , Yokoi Hideto , Ishiguro Chieko , Uyama Yoshiaki ,   on behalf of MID‐NET project group
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To examine the potential role of Medical Information Database Network (MID‐NET®), a newly established Japanese medical information database network, in postmarketing drug safety assessments through the characterization of its advantages and limitations in five pilot studies.

Methods

The pilot studies were designed to address three major objectives in postmarketing drug safety assessments, ie, the examination of actual drug utilization, the impact of safety‐related regulatory actions, and drug‐associated risks. The five studies were conducted on the following topics: (a) utilization of codeine‐containing products and its relationship with respiratory depression, (b) impact of a Dear Healthcare Professional letter on hypocalcemia incidence associated with denosumab (Ranmark®) use, (c) risk of acute myocardial infarction associated with antidiabetic drug use, (d) risk of glucose metabolism disorders associated with atypical antipsychotic drug use, and (e) prospective monitoring of abnormal laboratory test results during new drug prescriptions.

Results

The pilot studies were successfully conducted and demonstrated the value of MID‐NET® in postmarketing drug safety assessments. In particular, the ability to utilize laboratory test results as objective clinical indicators is a major advantage of this database. Potential limitations include a relatively small sample size and a lack of patient‐level data linkages among hospitals.

Conclusions

MID‐NET® was confirmed to be a valuable database for postmarketing drug safety assessments. The use of laboratory test results to define clinical outcomes may allow more objective and accurate analyses to be conducted. These studies furthered our understanding of the characteristics of MID‐NET®, including its advantages and limitations.
In situ generated amine as a Lewis base catalyst in the reaction of 3,7‐dinitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane in nitric acid: Experimental and DFT study
Authors: Zhang Yu , Chi Guoli , He Ying , Xu Zishuai , Zhang Luyao , Luo Jun , Zhou Baojing
Published: April 2019

The problem how ammonium nitrate affects the nitrolysis of 3,7‐dinitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane (DPT) in nitric acid to prepare 1,3,5,7‐tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazacyclooctane (HMX) has puzzled chemists for decades. In this paper, experimental work and theoretical calculation are described to investigate the long‐standing challenge. The experiment results showed that ammonium nitrate or alkylammonium chlorides were in favor of the formation of 1‐nitroso‐3,5,7‐trinitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazacyclooctane (MNX) but hindered the conversion of MNX to HMX. A plausible catalytic mechanism was proposed. In which ammonia or amines, in situ generated from the unfavorable balance with their salts, act as Lewis base catalysts. At the same time, the DFT computation results reveal that rigid bicyclic transition states established with 1‐hydroxymethyl‐3,5,7‐trinitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazacyclooctane, ammonia (or amines) and three water molecules lead to very low activation energies. Then, a novel process for the preparation of MNX with excellent yield up to 78.5% was developed, which is free of the use of NaNO2 or N2O4 as nitroso resources.
Randomized clinical trial of high concentration versus titrated oxygen use in pediatric asthma
Authors: Patel Bhavi , Khine Hnin , Shah Ami , Sung Deborah , Medar Shivanand , Singer Lewis
Published: April 2019

Objective

To compare the effects of high concentration to titrated oxygen therapy (HCOT) on transcutaneous carbon dioxide (PtCO2) level in pediatric asthma exacerbation. Titrated oxygen therapy (TOT) in acute asthma will avoid a rise in PtCO
2 in the pediatric population.

Method

The study design is a prospective, randomized, clinical trial comparing HCOT (maintain SpO2 92‐95%) while being treated for asthma exacerbation in the emergency department (ED). Inclusion criteria: 2 to 18 years, previously diagnosed asthma with acute exacerbation (asthma score >5). PtCO2 and asthma scores were measured at 0, 20, 40, 60 minutes and then every 30 minutes until disposition decision. The primary outcome was a change in PtCO
2. Secondary outcomes were admission rate and change in asthma score.

Results

A total of 96 patients were enrolled in the study with a mean age of 8.27 years; 49 in HCOT and 47 in the TOT group. The 0 minute PtCO2 was similar (35.33 + 3.88 HCOT vs 36.66 + 4.69 TOT, P = 0.13); whereas, the 60 minutes PtCO
2 was higher in the HCOT (38.08 + 5.11 HCOT vs 35.51 + 4.57 TOT, P = 0.01). The asthma score was similar at 0 minute (7.55 + 1.34 HCOT vs 7.30 + 1.18 TOT, P = 0.33); whereas, the 60 minutes asthma score was lower in the TOT (4.71 + 1.38 HCOT vs 3.57 + 1.25 TOT, P = 0.0001). The rate of admission to the hospital was 40.5% in HCOT vs 25.5% in the TOT (P = 0.088).

Conclusions

HCOT in pediatric asthma exacerbation leads to significantly higher carbon dioxide levels, which increases asthma scores and trends towards the increasing rate of admission. Larger studies are needed to explore this association.
Free energy calculations elucidate substrate binding, gating mechanism, and tolerance‐promoting mutations in herbicide target 4‐hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase
Authors: Schindler Christina E. M. , Hollenbach Eva , Mietzner Thomas , Schleifer Klaus‐Jürgen , Zacharias Martin
Published: April 2019

4‐Hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) catalyzes the second reaction in the tyrosine catabolism and is linked to the production of cofactors plastoquinone and tocopherol in plants. This important biological role has put HPPD in the focus of current herbicide design efforts including the development of herbicide‐tolerant mutants. However, the molecular mechanisms of substrate binding and herbicide tolerance have yet to be elucidated. In this work, we performed molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations to characterize active site gating by the C‐terminal helix H11 in HPPD. We compared gating equilibria in Arabidopsis thaliana (At) and Zea mays (Zm) wild‐type proteins retrieving the experimentally observed preferred orientations from the simulations. We investigated the influence of substrate and product binding on the open–closed transition and discovered a ligand‐mediated conformational switch in H11 that mediates rapid substrate access followed by active site closing and efficient product release through H11 opening. We further studied H11 gating in At mutant HPPD, and found large differences with correlation to experimentally measured herbicide tolerance. The computational findings were then used to design a new At mutant HPPD protein that showed increased tolerance to six commercially available HPPD inhibitors in biochemical in vitro experiments. Our results underline the importance of protein flexibility and conformational transitions in substrate recognition and enzyme inhibition by herbicides.
A structural view of bacterial DNA replication
Authors: Oakley Aaron J.
Published: April 2019

DNA replication mechanisms are conserved across all organisms. The proteins required to initiate, coordinate, and complete the replication process are best characterized in model organisms such as Escherichia coli. These include nucleotide triphosphate‐driven nanomachines such as the DNA‐unwinding helicase DnaB and the clamp loader complex that loads DNA‐clamps onto primer–template junctions. DNA‐clamps are required for the processivity of the DNA polymerase III core, a heterotrimer of α, ε, and θ, required for leading‐ and lagging‐strand synthesis. DnaB binds the DnaG primase that synthesizes RNA primers on both strands. Representative structures are available for most classes of DNA replication proteins, although there are gaps in our understanding of their interactions and the structural transitions that occur in nanomachines such as the helicase, clamp loader, and replicase core as they function. Reviewed here is the structural biology of these bacterial DNA replication proteins and prospects for future research.
Creation and Migration of Intrinsic Defects in Si‐Doped Diamond Produced Using Microwave Plasma Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Wang Kaiyue , Ding Senchuan , Zhang Yufei , Wang Hong‐Xing , Tian Yuming , Wang Yingmin , Chai Yuesheng
Published: April 2019

In this study, low temperature micro‐photoluminescence technology is used to investigate the development and migration of intrinsic defects in Si‐doped diamond. The results demonstrate that NV and Si‐V luminescence are weakened due to the recombination of self‐interstitials created by electron irradiation in diamond. After annealing at high temperatures, interstitial‐related centers disappear and the vacancy migrate significant distances to isolated N and Si atoms for conversion into NV and Si‐V centers.
Solvothermal Growth of PbBi2Se4 Nano‐Flowers: A Material for Humidity Sensor and Photodetector Applications
Authors: Aher Rahul , Bhorde Ajinkya , Nair Shruthi , Borate Haribhau , Pandharkar Subhash , Naik Dhirsing , Vairale Priti , Karpe Smita , Late Dattatray , Prasad Mohit , Jadkar Sandesh
Published: April 2019

In the present work, lead bismuth selenide (PbBi2Se4) nano‐flowers are synthesized by using a simple solvothermal method. Humidity sensor and photodetector based on PbBi2Se4 nano‐flowers are fabricated on indium tin oxide (ITO) substrates and their sensing properties are investigated. Formation of PbBi2Se4 is confirmed by XRD, EDS, and XPS whereas formation of nano‐flowers is confirmed by SEM and TEM analysis. XRD analysis reveals the hexagonal crystal structure of PbBi2Se4 phase with a = b = 4.22 Å, and c = 17.42 Å. The surface morphology of PbBi2Se4 clearly shows the formation of well‐organized flower‐like nanostructures which closely resembles the shape of Dahlia. The elemental mapping of chemical constituents obtained from SEM‐EDS analysis shows uniform distribution of chemical constituents for the Pb, Bi, and Se in PbBi2Se4 nano‐flowers. The PbBi2Se4 nano‐flowers‐based humidity sensor has a typical response time of ≈65 s and recovery time of ≈75 s. In case of PbBi2Se4 nano‐flowers‐based photodetector, the response and recovery time are observed ≈121 and ≈123 s, respectively, under visible light illumination with photoresponsivity (5 × 10−6), photosensitivity (2.16%), and quantum efficiency (1.5 × 104). The obtained results demonstrate the potential applications of solvothermally grown PbBi2Se4 nano‐flowers‐based devices for humidity sensors and photodetectors. The ease of the present work is to develop novel material to obtain device quality humidity sensors and photodetectors.
Combination of tanshinone IIA and doxorubicin possesses synergism and attenuation effects on doxorubicin in the treatment of breast cancer
Authors: Li Kun , Liu Wensu , Zhao Qian , Wu Chunxia , Fan Chenxing , Lai Hong , Li Shizheng
Published: April 2019

Doxorubicin (Dox) is a first‐line drug for breast cancer chemotherapy. However, with the prolongation of chemotherapy cycle, breast cancer cells are increasingly tempt to resist Dox, and meanwhile, high cumulative dose of Dox brings enhancing toxic side effects, and these effects may lead to chemotherapy failure. Hence, it is necessary to search an agent in combination medication with Dox, which can not only enhance the chemosensitivity of Dox but also reduce the toxic side effects. Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA) is reported to have antitumor activity in addition to its cardiovascular protective effects. We employed human breast cancer MCF‐7 and MCF‐7/dox cells in order to assess whether Tan IIA might perform such function. Our in vitro studies showed that Tan IIA could enhance the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to Dox through inhibiting the PTEN/AKT pathway and downregulating the expression of efflux ABC transporters including P‐gp, BCRP, and MRP1. In addition, our in vivo studies showed Tan IIA enhanced the chemotherapeutic effect of Dox against breast cancer while reducing its toxic side effects including weight loss, myelosuppression, cardiotoxicity, and nephrotoxicity. Therefore, Tan IIA could be used as a novel agent combined with Dox in breast cancer therapy.
Development and evaluation of organic vapour permeation system for packaging applications
Authors: Cheon Sol Mi , Jung Bich Nam , Shim Jin Kie , Hwang Sung Wook
Published: April 2019

This paper reported the permeability of four different organic compounds in low‐density polyethylene (LDPE), ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), and in a multilayer film composed of them through the isostatic flow permeation measurement system. The methodology assumed that the nitrogen feed stream is saturated with organic vapour, and a chromatographic technique was used as a detector for the quantification of the permeate. The results were in general good agreement with literature reports, providing accuracy and reliability of measurement procedures. The permeability of LDPE increased with increasing hydrophobicity of organic compounds, but hydrophilic EVOH suggesting that there had been an effect of functional groups on permeability behaviour. The multilayer films were observed larger than expected because of the interface responsible for adhesive bonding of tie resins to EVOH by chemical interactions. Nonetheless, as an application of such multilayer structures, we suggested the method studied as feasible and possible tools for characterizing permeation properties against organic vapours.
3D path planning for flexible needle steering in neurosurgery
Authors: Hong Ayoung , Boehler Quentin , Moser Roman , Zemmar Ajmal , Stieglitz Lennart , Nelson Bradley J.
Published: April 2019

Background: We propose a 3D path planning method to steer flexible needles along curved paths in the context of deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedures.

Methods: Our approach is based on a rapidly exploring random tree strategy, and it takes into account constraints coming from anatomical obstacles and physical constraints dictated by flexible needle kinematics. The strategy is evaluated in simulation on a realistic 3D CAD model of the brain.

Results: The subthalamic nucleus (STN) and the fornix can be reached along several curved paths from various entry points. As compared with the usual straight line path, these curved paths avoid tissue damage to important neural structures while allowing for a much greater selection of entry points.

Conclusions: This path planning method offers alternative curved paths to reach DBS targets with flexible needles. The method potentially leads to safer paths and additional entry points capable of reaching the desired stimulation targets.
Towards an effective use of language to explain light in the museum
Authors: Afonso Susana , Afonso Ana Sofia , Rodrigues Francisco
Published: April 2019

Museum educators play a key role in explaining science in a museum. Verbal language is primarily used to communicate scientific concepts, but the way language shapes the explanations provided has not been investigated. This qualitative study focuses on the explanations about light provided by three museum educators to eighth grade students (13–14 years old), during unstructured visits to a science museum. The visits were audio‐recorded and field notes were taken. The museum educators' language was analyzed at a microlevel, through the perspective of Cognitive Linguistics and Conceptual Metaphor theory. The results of this analysis coupled with a multidimensional framework for analyzing explanations allowed an understanding on what is explained and how it is explained in the museum by museum educators. Findings show that explanations were descriptive and causal, structured by the use of hybrid lexicon and by conceptual metaphors, whose quality depends on the structural similarity between domains. Furthermore, the explanations based on geometric optics were qualitative and with low level of precision, complexity, and abstractness.
Halogen Atom and Position Dependent Strong Enhancement of Solid‐State Fluorescence and Stimuli Responsive Reversible Fluorescence Switching
Authors: Gayathri Parthasarathy , Karthikeyan Subramanian , Moon Dohyun , Anthony Savarimuthu Philip
Published: April 2019

Halogen (F, Cl and Br) substituted triphenylamine (TPA)‐phenylacetonitrile donor‐acceptor aggregation enhanced emissive (AEE) compounds have been synthesized and investigated halogen atom and substitution position dependent solid‐state fluorescence. Interestingly, para position substituted compounds exhibited stronger fluorescence compared to meta position substituted compounds. Further, strong enhancement of fluorescence efficiency was observed with increase of atomic size from H to Br (Φf=11.81 to 33.05%). Solid state structural studies revealed formation of halogen‐H and halogen‐π interactions in the crystal lattice that rigidified the fluorophores and enhanced the fluorescence. Computational studies have been performed to get insight on the fluorescence efficiency modulation by halogen. Integration of propeller shaped TPA lead to external stimuli induced reversible/self‐reversible fluorescence switching. PXRD studies confirmed self‐recovering of crystalline state after crushing. Fluorescent PMMA polymer thin films of halogen derivatives showed off‐on fluorescence switching upon exposure of acid and base/heating. Thus, the present studies indicate that halogen could be employed for strongly enhancing fluorescence efficiency of organic compounds that might be of potential interest for optoelectronic device application.
Rational Design of a Flexible CNTs@PDMS Film Patterned by Bio‐Inspired Templates as a Strain Sensor and Supercapacitor
Authors: Zhang Chenjun , Li Hui , Huang Aoming , Zhang Qiao , Rui Kun , Lin Huijuan , Sun Gengzhi , Zhu Jixin , Peng Huisheng , Huang Wei
Published: April 2019

Flexible devices integrated with sensing and energy storage functions are highly desirable due to their potential application in wearable electronics and human motion detection. Here, a flexible film is designed in a facile and low‐cost leaf templating process, comprising wrinkled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as the conductive layer and patterned polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with bio‐inspired microstructure as a soft substrate. Assembled from wrinkled CNTs on patterned PDMS film, a strain sensor is realized to possess sensitive resistance response against various deformations, producing a resistance response of 0.34%, 0.14%, and 9.1% under bending, pressing, and 20% strain, respectively. Besides, the strain sensor can reach a resistance response of 3.01 when stretched to 44%. Furthermore, through the electro‐deposition of polyaniline, the CNTs film is developed into a supercapacitor, which exhibits a specific capacitance of 176 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and a capacitance retention of 88% after 10 000 cycles. In addition, the fabricated supercapacitor shows super flexibility, delivering a capacitance retention of 98% after 180° bending for 100 cycles, 95% after 45° twisting for 100 cycles, and 98% after 100% stretching for 400 cycles. The superior capacitance stability demonstrates that the design of wrinkled CNTs‐based electrodes fixed by microstructures is beneficial to the excellent electrochemical performance.
Behavior and analysis of unsymmetrical double barrel precast concrete box culverts with posttensioning bars
Authors: Wu Xiangguo , Kang Thomas H. ‐K. , Xia Xinlei , Chen Xiao‐Kai , Hwang Hyeon‐Jong , Zhou Ruihua
Published: April 2019

This study focused on the structural behavior of double barrel precast concrete (PC) box culverts where the width of each barrel may vary from that of the other. In lieu of using the elastic foundation beam method, current design codes specify use of reaction method to evaluate the internal force distribution between the two culvert segments. On the basis of a parametric study, a modification of reaction method was proposed to consider the effects of foundation stiffness and structural configuration. The proposed method predicted well the structural behavior of the structure on ground. Further, the structural integrity of each PC segment and between the segments is significantly affected by the sectional layout of posttensioning bars because the cross‐sectional area of the culvert is large. Significant stress concentration and nonuniform stress distribution also affects waterproofing performance of elastic sealing rubber strips at joint interfaces. To evaluate this, numerical analysis was performed with various sectional layouts of posttensioning bars. The distribution and average value of stresses were significantly affected by the posttensioning bar layout. Results of this study can be used as reference for design methods associated with double barrel PC box culverts where width of each barrel may vary from that of the other.
Enhancing Antioxidant Effect against Peroxyl Radical‐Induced Oxidation of DNA: Linking with Ferrocene Moiety!
Authors: Liu Zai‐Qun
Published: April 2019

As a major member in the family of reactive oxygen species, peroxyl radical is able to abstract hydrogen atom from 4‐position of ribose, leading to the collapse of DNA strand. Thus, inhibiting oxidative stress with exogenous antioxidants acts as a promising strategy to protect the integrity of DNA structure and is thereby suggested to be a pathway against developments of related diseases. Ferrocene as an organometallic scaffold is widely applied in the design of organometallic drugs, and redox of Fe(II)/Fe(III) in ferrocene offers advantage for providing electron to radicals. Presented herein are our ongoing studies on ferrocene‐appended antioxidants, including McMurry reaction applied to construct ferrocifen; Aldol condensation used to prepare ferrocenyl curcumin; Povarov reaction employed to prepare ferrocenyl quinoline; Biginelli reaction used to construct ferrocenyl dihydropyrimidine; Groebke reaction used to synthesize ferrocenyl imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine; and Passerini three‐component reaction as well as Ugi four‐component reaction applied to synthesize α‐acyloxycarboxamide and bisamide, respectively. It is found that ferrocene moiety is able to enhance antioxidative effect of the aforementioned scaffolds even without the aid of phenolic hydroxyl group. The role of ferrocene in enhancing antioxidative effect can be attributable to trapping radicals, decreasing oxidative potential, and increasing the affinity toward DNA strand. Therefore, ferrocene is worthy to be taken into consideration in the design of drugs in relation to DNA oxidation.
Tunnel crack detection using coarse‐to‐fine region localization and edge detection
Authors: Li Ce , Xu Pinjie , Niu Lijinliang , Chen Yuan , Sheng Longshuai , Liu Mingcun
Published: April 2019

Detecting cracks on the concrete surface is crucial for the tunnel health monitoring and maintenance of Chinese transport facilities, since it is closely related with the structural health and reliability. The automated and efficient tunnel crack detection recently has attracted more research studies, particularly cheap availability of digital cameras makes this issue easier. However, it is still a challenging task due to concrete blebs, stains, and illumination over the concrete surface. This paper presents an efficient crack detection method in the tunnel concrete structure based on digital image processing and deep learning. Three contributions of the paper are summarized as follows. First, we collect and annotate a tunnel crack dataset including three kinds of common cracks that might benefit the research in the field. Second, we propose a new coarse‐to‐fine crack detection method using improved preprocessing, coarse crack region localization and classification, and fine crack edge detection. Third, we introduce a faster region convolutional neural network to develop a coarse crack region localization and classification, then deploy edge extraction to implement the fine crack edge detection, gaining a high‐efficiency and high‐accuracy performance.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Machine Learning

Application Areas > Industry Specific Applications

Technologies > Classification
Hydrothermal Synthesis, Crystal Structure Determination, and Magnetic Properties of a New Calcium Iron Iridium Hydrogarnet Ca3(Ir2–xFex)(FeO4)2–x(O4H4)1+x with 0 ≤ x ≤ 1
Authors: Poddig Hagen , Hunger Jens , Kamusella Sirko , Klauss Hans‐Henning , Wolter Anja U. B. , Bastien Gaël , Corredor Bohórquez Laura T. , Doert Thomas
Published: April 2019

The new calcium iron iridium hydrogarnet Ca3(Ir2–xFex)(FeO4)2–x(H4O4)1+x (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) was obtained by hydrothermal synthesis under strongly oxidizing alkaline conditions. The compound adopts a garnet‐like crystal structure and crystallizes in the acentric cubic space group I43d (no. 220) with a = 12.5396(6) Å determined at T = 100 K for a crystal with a refined composition Ca3(Ir1.4Fe0.6)(FeO4)1.4(O4H4)1.6. Iridium and iron statistically occupy the octahedrally coordinated metal position, the two crystallographically independent tetrahedral sites are partially occupied by iron. Hydroxide groups are found to cluster as hydrogarnet defects, i.e. partially substituting oxide anions around the empty tetrahedral metal sites. The presence of hydroxide ions was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy and the hydrogen content was quantified by carrier gas hot extraction; the overall composition was verified by energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The structure model is supported by 57Fe‐Mössbauer spectroscopic data evidencing different Fe sites and a magnetic ordering of the octahedral iron sublattice at room temperature. The thermal decomposition proceeds via three steps of water loss and results in Ca2Fe2O5, Fe2O3 and Ir. Mössbauer and magnetization data suggest magnetic order at ambient temperature with complex magnetic interactions.
Conceptualising the ‘Perfect’ Family in Late Nineteenth-Century Philanthropic Institutions
Authors: Taylor Steven J.
Published: April 2019

Steve Taylor turns to the Waifs and Strays Society to rethink the nature, shape, and meaning of the working-class Victorian family. In a period when significant numbers of children were fostered for a variety of reasons by relatives, friends and other individuals it is hardly surprising that there was considerable discussion around the fragility of family units, ‘nomadic’ husbands, alcoholic parents, wandering wives, and working parents. At the core of these observations was an underlying concern that children were being failed by family and kin alike. Taylor examines how concerns about the young and their status in working families were represented in philanthropic institutions by middle-aged white men. His chapter picks up one of the main themes of this volume which is the idea that the shape and meaning of family were essentially imagined.
Natural seesaw and leptogenesis from hybrid of high-scale type I and TeV-scale inverse
Authors: Agashe Kaustubh , Du Peizhi , Ekhterachian Majid , Fong Chee Sheng , Hong Sungwoo , Vecchi Luca
Published: April 2019

Abstract

We develop an extension of the basic inverse seesaw model which addresses simultaneously two of its drawbacks, namely, the lack of explanation of the tiny Majorana mass term μ for the TeV-scale singlet fermions and the difficulty in achieving successful leptogenesis. Firstly, we investigate systematically leptogenesis within the inverse (and the related linear) seesaw models and show that a successful scenario requires either small Yukawa couplings, implying loss of experimental signals, and/or quasi-degeneracy among singlets mass of different generations, suggesting extra structure must be invoked. Then we move to the analysis of our new framework, which we refer to as hybrid seesaw. This combines the TeV degrees of freedom of the inverse seesaw with those of a high-scale (M

N
≫ TeV) seesaw module in such a way as to retain the main features of both pictures: naturally small neutrino masses, successful leptogenesis, and accessible experimental signatures. We show how the required structure can arise from a more fundamental theory with a gauge symmetry or from warped extra dimensions/composite Higgs. We provide a detailed derivation of all the analytical formulae necessary to analyze leptogenesis in this new framework, and discuss the entire gamut of possibilities our scenario encompasses — including scenarios with singlet masses in the enlarged range M

N
∼ 106 − 1016 GeV. This idea of hybrid seesaw was proposed by us in arXiv:1804.06847; here, we substantially elaborate upon and extend earlier results.
Defining the Three Delays in Referral of Surgical Emergencies from District Hospitals to University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Rwanda
Authors: Mpirimbanyi Christophe , Abahuje Egide , Hirwa Aime Dieudone , Gasakure Miguel , Rwagahirima Elisee , Niyonzima Christian , Hakizimana Adolphe Niyoyita , Ishimwe Epiphanie , Ntirenganya Faustin , Rickard Jennifer
Published: April 2019

Background

Surgical conditions represent up to 30% of the global burden of diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the delays in patients transferred to a tertiary referral hospital from district hospitals (DHs) in Rwanda with emergency general surgery (EGS) conditions.

Methods

We performed a prospective review of all EGS patients referred from DH over a 3‐month period to assess delays in transfer and accessing care. We then surveyed general practitioners to define their perspective on delays in surgical care.

Results

Over a 3‐month period, there were 86 patients transferred from DH with EGS conditions. The most common diagnoses were bowel obstruction (n = 22, 26%) and trauma (n = 19, 22%). The most common performed operations were laparotomy (n = 21, 24%) and bowel resection (n = 20, 23%). The mortality rate was 12%, and the intensive care unit admission rate was 4%. In transfer to the referral hospital, 5% patients were delayed for financial reasons and 2% due to lack of insurance. After reaching CHUK, 5% patients were delayed due to laboratory and radiology issues. Other delays included no operating theater available (4%) and no surgeon available (1%). Providers’ perceptions for not performing surgeries at DH were predominantly the lack of a competent surgical provider or anesthesia staff.

Conclusion

EGS patients represent a broad range of diagnoses. Delays were noted at each step in the referral process with multiple areas for potential improvement. Expanding surgical access at the DH has the potential to decrease delays and thereby improves patient outcomes.
Parental behavioural control in adolescence: How does it affect self‐esteem and self‐criticism?
Authors: Gittins Catherine B. , Hunt Caroline
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Parental behavioural control is believed to be beneficial for young children. However, with increased need for independence during adolescence, parental rules may undermine self‐beliefs.

Methods

The current study examined the effect of behavioural control, plus parental support and psychological control, on the self‐esteem and self‐criticism of 243 Australian adolescents (mean age = 12.08, 52% female) over two years.

Results

Behavioural control largely did not predict self‐esteem. Furthermore, in girls it predicted higher self‐criticism 12 and 24 months later. Behavioural control does not appear to benefit adolescents' self‐cognitions and, in fact, increases self‐criticism in girls.

Conclusions

By providing copious rules around appropriate behaviours, parents may possibly indicate to girls that they are not capable of becoming independent, thus reducing feelings of competence.
Sexual Dysfunction in Women Treated for Type 1 Diabetes and the Impact of Coexisting Thyroid Disease
Authors: Stechova Katerina , Mastikova Lenka , Urbaniec Krzysztof , Vanis Miroslav , Hylmarova Simona , Kvapil Milan , Pastor Zlatko
Published: April 2019

Introduction

More sexual problems are reported among people treated for diabetes; however, this situation is less explored in women than in men.

Aim

To analyze the presence and causal links of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among Czech women treated for type 1 diabetes.

Methods

40 women completed a national version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Female Sexual Distress Scale-revised (FSDS-R), and Beck’s Depression Inventory–II (BDI-II). A metabolic and endocrine analysis was done using blood samples. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS v.24 and the R environment.

Main Outcome Measures

Patient details (personal information, diabetes-related data, and sex history), sexual performance (the FSFI and FSDS-R scores), and level of depression (the BDI-II score) were measured.

Results

FSD was present in 58% of the participants (based on the FSFI score), and 38% women declared significant sexual distress (according to their FSDS-R score). Even though only 4 women fulfilled the criteria for depression, we observed a strong association between BDI-II and FSFI (for total FSFI score P = .012, ρ = −0.394) resp. FSDS-R scores (P < .001, ρ = 0.552). Although we were not able to establish a clear direct connection between FSD and metabolic control, BDI-II scores were closely correlated with glycosylated hemoglobin (P = .009, ρ = 0.407). The duration of diabetes (based on FSDS-R: P = .046) but neither age nor the presence of chronic diabetic microvascular complications was associated with a higher FSD occurrence. We also observed an association between FSD and the presence of autoimmune hypothyroidism, even when successfully treated (FSDS-R: P = .009; FSFI: P = .067).

Conclusion

FSD is more common in women with type 1 diabetes than in healthy women, and coexisting thyroid autoimmune disease seems to exacerbate FSD. Women suffering from type 1 diabetes, and particularly those with additional endocrinopathies, should be actively screened for FSD.
Provoked Vestibulodynia in Women with Pelvic Pain
Authors: Bao Carol , Noga Heather , Allaire Catherine , Williams Christina , Bedaiwy Mohamed A. , Sadownik Leslie A. , Brotto Lori A. , Smith Kelly B. , Yong Paul J.
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Pelvic pain and vulvar pain are common conditions in women. In this study, we sought to characterize the clinical picture of patients with concurrent pelvic pain and provoked vestibulodynia (PVD).

Aim

To analyze the association between sexual/clinical characteristics and a diagnosis of PVD among women with pelvic pain.

Methods

Cross-sectional analysis of a prospective registry at a tertiary referral center for pelvic pain and endometriosis, involving consecutive non-menopausal sexually active patients 18–49 years-old seen by a single gynecologist from January 2016–December 2017. The sample was divided into 2 groups: pelvic pain with PVD; and pelvic pain alone (without PVD).

Main Outcome Measures

Superficial dyspareunia and deep dyspareunia on a 11-point numeric rating scale, and the sexual quality-of-life subscale of the Endometriosis Health Profile-30 (0–100%).

Results

There were 129 patients that met study criteria: one third with pelvic pain and PVD (n = 42) and two-thirds with pelvic pain alone (without PVD) (n = 87). Women with pelvic pain and PVD had significantly more severe superficial dyspareunia ≥7/10 (OR = 12.00 (4.48–32.16), P < .001), more severe deep dyspareunia ≥7/10 (OR = 4.08 (1.83–9.10), P = .001), and poorer sexual quality of life (Endometriosis Health Profile-30 ≥50%) (OR = 4.39 (1.67-11.57), P = .002), compared with the group with pelvic pain alone. Women with pelvic pain and PVD also had more anxiety, depression, and catastrophizing, more frequent tenderness of the bladder and pelvic floor, and more common diagnosis of painful bladder syndrome. On the other hand, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, abdominal wall allodynia, positive Carnett test for abdominal wall pain, functional quality of life, endometriosis, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Conclusions

In the pelvic pain population, PVD may be associated with more negative impact on dyspareunia, sexual quality of life, and bladder/pelvic floor function, but it may not significantly impact abdominopelvic pain or day-to-day function in general.
The First History of Our Financial Crisis
Authors: Hansen Per H.
Published: April 2019

Adam Tooze's Crashed is arguably the first historical narrative of the financial crisis. It is an ambitious account of the crisis and its global economic, financial, political, and geopolitical causes and implications. Crashed is organized chronologically in four parts—the “Gathering Storm,” “The Global Crisis,” “Eurozone,” and “Aftershocks”—and focuses more on the macrolevel structures, processes, and decisions than on the microlevel and the people suffering from the crisis. Except, that is, in aggregate numbers and a few empathic comments such as this: “As house prices fell, equity dwindled, and the hardest hit slid into negative equity. Families scrambled to slash spending and pay down credit card and other short-term debt. The result was a smothering recession in consumer demand” (p. 143).
The BMI–adiposity conundrum in South Asian populations: need for further research
Authors: Kapoor Nitin , Furler John , Paul Thomas V. , Thomas Nihal , Oldenburg Brian
Published: April 2019

High body fat in apparently lean individuals is a commonly described phenotype in individuals of Asian descent, but very limited consolidated scientific literature is available on this topic. This phenotype is known as ‘normal-weight obesity’ and may explain the large disparity between the prevalence of obesity (as measured by BMI) and diabetes that occurs in these individuals. Routine use of obesity indicators that best predict body fat content would help to identify these individuals in clinical practice. In this debate, we would like to highlight that even though fat and BMI have a good correlation, as suggested by Kryst et al. (2019), clinicians, public health researchers and policymakers should consider the use of these indicators in conjunction with each other rather than individually. Future research is needed on pathogenic mechanisms, diagnostic modalities and therapeutic options in these individuals which will help to further characterize and manage these patients appropriately.