bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Firre locus produces a trans-acting RNA molecule that functions in hematopoiesis
Authors: Lewandowski Jordan P. , Lee James C. , Hwang Taeyoung , Sunwoo Hongjae , Goldstein Jill M. , Groff Abigail F. , Chang Nydia P. , Mallard William , Williams Adam , Henao-Meija Jorge , Flavell Richard A. , Lee Jeannie T. , Gerhardinger Chiara , Wagers Amy J. , Rinn John L.
Published: November 2019

RNA has been classically known to play central roles in biology, including maintaining telomeres, protein synthesis, and in sex chromosome compensation. While thousands of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified, attributing RNA-based roles to lncRNA loci requires assessing whether phenotype(s) could be due to DNA regulatory elements, transcription, or the lncRNA. Here, we use the conserved X chromosome lncRNA locus Firre, as a model to discriminate between DNA- and RNA-mediated effects in vivo. We demonstrate that (i) Firre mutant mice have cell-specific hematopoietic phenotypes, and (ii) upon exposure to lipopolysaccharide, mice overexpressing Firre exhibit increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and impaired survival. (iii) Deletion of Firre does not result in changes in local gene expression, but rather in changes on autosomes that can be rescued by expression of transgenic Firre RNA. Together, our results provide genetic evidence that the Firre locus produces a trans-acting lncRNA that has physiological roles in hematopoiesis.
eIF4A supports an oncogenic translation program in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chan Karina , Robert Francis , Oertlin Christian , Kapeller-Libermann Dana , Avizonis Daina , Gutierrez Johana , Handly-Santana Abram , Doubrovin Mikhail , Park Julia , Schoepfer Christina , Da Silva Brandon , Yao Melissa , Gorton Faith , Shi Junwei , Thomas Craig J. , Brown Lauren E. , Porco John A. , Pollak Michael , Larsson Ola , Pelletier Jerry , Chio Iok In Christine
Published: November 2019

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is a lethal malignancy with limited treatment options. Although metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of many cancers, including PDA, previous attempts to target metabolic changes therapeutically have been stymied by drug toxicity and tumour cell plasticity. Here, we show that PDA cells engage an eIF4F-dependent translation program that supports redox and central carbon metabolism. Inhibition of the eIF4F subunit, eIF4A, using the synthetic rocaglate CR-1-31-B (CR-31) reduced the viability of PDA organoids relative to their normal counterparts. In vivo, CR-31 suppresses tumour growth and extends survival of genetically-engineered murine models of PDA. Surprisingly, inhibition of eIF4A also induces glutamine reductive carboxylation. As a consequence, combined targeting of eIF4A and glutaminase activity more effectively inhibits PDA cell growth both in vitro and in vivo. Overall, our work demonstrates the importance of eIF4A in translational control of pancreatic tumour metabolism and as a therapeutic target against PDA.
Optical vector analysis with attometer resolution, 90-dB dynamic range and THz bandwidth
Authors: Qing Ting , Li Shupeng , Tang Zhenzhou , Gao Bindong , Pan Shilong
Published: November 2019

Optical vector analysis (OVA) capable of achieving magnitude and phase responses is essential for the fabrication and application of emerging optical devices. Conventional OVA often has to make compromises among resolution, dynamic range, and bandwidth. Here we show an original method to meet the measurement requirements for ultra-wide bandwidth, ultra-high resolution, and ultra-large dynamic range simultaneously, based on an asymmetric optical probe signal generator (ASG) and receiver (ASR). The ASG and ASR remove the measurement errors introduced by the modulation nonlinearity and enable an ultra-large dynamic range. Thanks to the wavelength-independence of the ASG and ASR, the measurement range can increase by 2 N times by applying an N-tone optical frequency comb without complicated operation. In an experiment, OVA with a resolution of 334 Hz (2.67 attometer in the 1550-nm band), a dynamic range of > 90 dB and a measurement range of 1.075 THz is demonstrated.
Pipetting-based immunoassay for point-of-care testing: Application for detection of the influenza A virus
Authors: Noh Ji Yeong , Yoon Sun-Woo , Kim Youngji , Lo Thi Van , Ahn Min-Ju , Jung Min-Chul , Le Tran Bac , Na Woonsung , Song Daesub , Le Van Phan , Haam Seungjoo , Jeong Dae Gwin , Kim Hye Kwon
Published: November 2019

Point-of-care tests (POCT) for pathogens are considered important for low-resource countries and facilities. Although lateral flow immunoassays (LFIA) have many advantages including speed and ease of use, their sensitivity is limited without specific equipment. Furthermore, their response cannot be enhanced through enzymatic reactions. Owing to these limitations, LFIAs have not yet been generally adopted as the standard protocol for in vitro analysis of infectious pathogens. We aimed to develop a novel pipetting-based immunoassay using a removable magnetic ring-coupled pipette tip. The “magnetic bead-capture antibody-targeted protein complex” was simply purified by pipetting and quantified by enzymatic colour development or using a lateral flow system. This pipetting-based immunoassay was applied to detect the nucleoprotein (NP) of the influenza A virus. Using an HRP-conjugated monoclonal antibody as a probe, the assay allowed for specific and sensitive detection. Furthermore, when this assay was applied exclusively for antigen capture in the lateral flow system, the limit of detection improved 100-fold and displayed greater sensitivity than the lateral flow system alone. Therefore, the pipetting-based immunoassay may be potentially used as a sensitive POCT to clinically detect a target antigen.
Early Life Trauma Has Lifelong Consequences for Sleep And Behavior
Authors: Lewin Monica , Lopachin Jenna , Delorme James , Opendak Maya , Sullivan Regina M. , Wilson Donald A.
Published: November 2019

Sleep quality varies widely across individuals, especially during normal aging, with impaired sleep contributing to deficits in cognition and emotional regulation. Sleep can also be impacted by a variety of adverse events, including childhood adversity. Here we examined how early life adverse events impacted later life sleep structure and physiology using an animal model to test the relationship between early life adversity and sleep quality across the life span. Rat pups were exposed to an Adversity-Scarcity model from postnatal day 8–12, where insufficient bedding for nest building induces maternal maltreatment of pups. Polysomnography and sleep physiology were assessed in weaning, early adult and older adults. Early life adversity induced age-dependent disruptions in sleep and behavior, including lifelong spindle decreases and later life NREM sleep fragmentation. Given the importance of sleep in cognitive and emotional functions, these results highlight an important factor driving variation in sleep, cognition and emotion throughout the lifespan that suggest age-appropriate and trauma informed treatment of sleep problems.
Harmonic light scattering study reveals structured clusters upon the supramolecular aggregation of regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophene)
Authors: Moris Michèle , Van Den Eede Marie-Paule , Koeckelberghs Guy , Deschaume Olivier , Bartic Carmen , Van Cleuvenbergen Stijn , Clays Koen , Verbiest Thierry
Published: November 2019

Solubilized poly(3-alkylthiophene)s are known to self-assemble into well-ordered supramolecular aggregates upon lowering the solvent quality. This supramolecular organization largely determines the optical and electronic properties of these polymers. However, despite numerous studies the exact mechanism and kinetics of the aggregation process and the role of external stimuli are still poorly understood. Classical characterization techniques such as electronic spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and diffraction-based techniques have not been able to provide a full understanding. Here we use second-harmonic scattering (SHS) and third-harmonic scattering (THS) techniques to investigate this supramolecular aggregation mechanism. Our results indicate that the actual supramolecular aggregation is preceded by the formation of structured polymer-solvent clusters consistent with a nonclassical crystallization pathway.
Niobium pentoxide nanomaterials with distorted structures as efficient acid catalysts
Authors: Skrodczky Kai , Antunes Margarida M. , Han Xianying , Santangelo Saveria , Scholz Gudrun , Valente Anabela A. , Pinna Nicola , Russo Patrícia A.
Published: November 2019

Niobium pentoxides are promising acid catalysts for the conversion of biomass into fuels and chemicals. Developing new synthesis routes is essential for designing niobium pentoxide catalysts with improved activity for specific practical processes. Here we show a synthesis approach in acetophenone, which produces nanostructured niobium pentoxides with varying structure and acidity that act as efficient acid catalysts. The oxides have orthorhombic structures with different extents of distortions and coordinatively unsaturated metal atoms. A strong dependence is observed between the type and strength of the acid sites and specific structural motifs. Ultrasmall niobium pentoxide nanoparticles, which have strong Brønsted acidity, as well as Lewis acidity, give product yields of 96% (3 h, 140 °C, 100% conversion), 85% (3 h, 140 °C, 86% conversion), and 100% (3 h, 110 °C, 100% conversion) in the reactions of furfuryl alcohol, 5-(hydroxymethyl)furfural, and α-angelica lactone with ethanol, respectively.
Application of a fabric phase sorptive extraction-high performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detection method for the trace determination of methyl paraben, propyl paraben and butyl paraben in cosmetic and environmental samples
Authors: Gülle Sumeyra , Ulusoy Halil Ibrahim , Kabir Abuzar , Tartaglia Angela , Furton Kenneth G. , Locatelli Marcello , Samanidou Victoria F.
Published: November 2019

A new sample preparation and chromatographic separation method for methyl, propyl and butyl paraben in cosmetic and environmental samples has been developed, based on fabric phase sorptive extraction and high performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detection.
Structural and optical characterization of dilute phosphide planar heterostructures with high nitrogen content on silicon
Authors: Koval Olga Yu. , Fedorov Vladimir V. , Kryzhanovskaya Natalia V. , Sapunov Georgiy A. , Kirilenko Demid A. , Pirogov Evgeniy V. , Filosofov Nikolay G. , Serov Aleksei Yu. , Shtrom Igor V. , Bolshakov Alexey D. , Mukhin Ivan S.
Published: November 2019

Despite poor crystallinity, a dilute nitride phosphide heterostructure with 5% nitrogen content demonstrates PL response at RT centered at 1.76 eV.
Synthesis and iron coordination properties of schizokinen and its imide derivative
Authors: Chuljerm Hataichanok , Chen Yu-Lin , Srichairatanakool Somdet , Hider Robert C. , Cilibrizzi Agostino
Published: November 2019

The affinity constant of schizokinen for FeIII (log KFeIII = 36.2) is greater than that of desferrioxamine (log KFeIII = 30.6).
Oleanolic acid enhances tight junctions and ameliorates inflammation in Salmonella typhimurium-induced diarrhea in mice via the TLR4/NF-κB and MAPK pathway
Authors: Dong Na , Xue Chenyu , Zhang Lei , Zhang Tingting , Wang Chensi , Bi Chongpeng , Shan Anshan
Published: November 2019

Oleanolic acid attenuates intestinal inflammation and intestinal tight junction barrier damage through the TLR4/NF-κB and MAPKs pathway.
Pomegranate peel polyphenols reduce chronic low-grade inflammatory responses by modulating gut microbiota and decreasing colonic tissue damage in rats fed a high-fat diet
Authors: Zhao Ruiqi , Long Xingyu , Yang Junqi , Du Lin , Zhang Xitong , Li Jianke , Hou Chen
Published: November 2019

Recent studies have found that high-fat diet (HFD) cause gut microbiota imbalance and colon tissue damage, resulting in increased intestinal permeability, which is one of the main reasons for constantly circulating low-grade inflammatory cytokines.
Controlled synthesis of methacrylate and acrylate diblock copolymers via end-capping using CCTP and FRP
Authors: Patias Georgios , Wemyss Alan M. , Efstathiou Spyridon , Town James S. , Atkins Christophe J. , Shegiwal Ataulla , Whitfield Richard , Haddleton David M.
Published: November 2019

This work demonstrates a method for preparing acrylic-methacrylic diblock copolymers via end-capping.
Copper mediated RDRP of thioacrylates and their combination with acrylates and acrylamides
Authors: Aksakal Suzan , Beyer Valentin P. , Aksakal Resat , Becer C. Remzi
Published: November 2019

Ethyl thioacrylate was polymerised via Cu-RDRP and subjected to amidation to obtain the first “all-acrylic” copolymer.
A Zn(ii) metal–organic framework based on bimetallic paddle wheels as a luminescence indicator for carcinogenic organic pollutants: phthalate esters
Authors: Wu Ming Ze , Ma Zhi Long , Shi Jian Yun , Tian Li
Published: November 2019

A three-dimensional coordination polymer {[Zn(TIA)]·DMA}n (Zn-1) with rtl binodal topology has been synthesized. In addition, Zn-1 is the first MOF for luminescent probing of phthalate esters.
Distributed control performance assessment and corresponding optimal controller design considering communication delays
Authors: Alipouri Yousef , Huang Biao
Published: November 2019

In distributed control systems, a local regulator does not have complete knowledge of the whole system. Therefore, some information is transmitted between local regulators through communication lines. The delays in communication lines are not negligible and they can make the closed‐loop system unstable or impose a limit on the achievable control performance. Due to the process and communication delays, controllers cannot reject all disturbances. Although there has been a plethora of literature available for assessing the control performance in the presence of process time delay, no similar study has been conducted for distributed control systems in the presence of communication delays. In order to address this problem, a new solution for performance assessment of distributed control systems, which takes communication delays into account, is proposed here. Further, the corresponding minimum variance controller is also derived under the distributed control framework with communication delays.
The Mass Transfer Intensification of Combined Treatment Products
Authors: Skrygin Oleg , Smolentsev Vladislav , Schednov Anton
Published: November 2019

The paper addresses the issues, related to mass transfer of treatment products when using combined forming methods with the application of an electric field. The impact of process components upon strength characteristics of parts has been shown. We have discovered the dependence of allowance removal rate upon the quality of preparation of the reference workpiece surface. The article describes the available industrial and newly developed methods of mass transfer intensification, using the original kinematics of movement, the improvement of the geometrical shape, the position of electrode-tools and the application of various options in the flow of liquid working media, including the cavitational mode, described in detail for the first time. We have disclosed the mechanism of the impulse effect upon treatment products, ejected from the inter-electrode gap by the liquid working medium. The issues have been discussed, concerning the hydrodynamic instability of liquid working media flow, impacting the intensity of mass transfer, with limitations, caused by the impact of side surfaces of holes and channels when processing with a profiled and a non-profiled wire electrode-tool. We have shown the impact of a concentrated ultrasonic beam upon mass transfer of treatment products, formed at a great distance from the electrode.
Zinc Coating Obtained in the Result of the Mechanochemical Effects in Vibrodynamic the Setups of Various Types
Authors: Ivanov Vladimir , Popov Sergey , Dontsov Nikolay , Essola Dieudonné
Published: November 2019

The results of investigations of zinc coatings obtained on the surface of metals in the process of mechanochemical synthesis realized in conditions of vibro-wave technological systems (VTS) are presented. The features of the morphology of the coating structure are revealed, which activates the role of indents in the formation of free-moving vibrations under the influence of low-frequency oscillations, and its influence on increasing the operational properties of the surface layer of the parts. The advantages of this method of applying zinc coatings in comparison with traditional methods are shown.
Activation of Electrochemical Piercing of Small Diameter Holes by Implementing High-Voltage Pulses in the Inter-Electrode Gap
Authors: Rakhimyanov Kharis , Vasilevskaya Svetlana
Published: November 2019

The results of intensifying the process of electrochemical piercing of small diameter holes in the range of 0.3 mm to 1 mm by implementing the high-voltage pulses in the inter-electrode gap are presented. It is shown that the implementation of electro-erosive discharges in the inter-electrode gap during the electrochemical processing with immovable electrodes intensifies the process, increasing the speed of forming by more than 10 times. It is explained by increasing the current density from 5 – 15 A/sm2 to 50 – 100 A/sm2 at the initial moment of processing and from 2 – 3 A/sm2 to 10 – 15 A/sm2 after obtaining a processing depth of 0.5 – 1.2 mm. It is established that the geometry distortion at the hole entrance is caused by instability of inter-electrode gap value. Increasing the accuracy of forming requires the implementation of the inter-electrode gap in the scheme of processing the stabilization system. Thus, it is necessary to conduct further investigations on forming the small diameter holes during relative displacement of electrodes.
Milling of Thin Walled Components from Aluminum Alloys by Considering the Conditions of Rigidity and Automation Assignment Elements of a Cutting Mode on CNC Machines
Authors: Nazarov Michail , Kiselev Evgeny
Published: November 2019

The work is devoted to the problems of manufacturing thinwalled parts of the aviation industry and instrument engineering on modern numerical control machines. The main reason of defects of such products -loss of dimensional accuracy is revealed. The reason for this is the elastic deformation of the workpiece during milling. A mathematical model for calculating the elastic pressing of a thin wall during milling is proposed. The method of checking the adequacy of the developed model with the help of engineering analysis system is presented. The minimum set of geometrical parameters of the processed element and the cutting tool necessary for search of the rational cutting mode was defined. A new approach to automation of this process present through the evaluation of all possible solutions. The calculation of the rational cutting mode was made taking into account the conditions of rigidity of the workpiece. Conclusions on the efficiency of the developed technique are made.
Influence of the Method of Strengthening the Surface of Parts on Acoustic Characteristics
Authors: Levashova Elena , Ababkov Nikolai , Pimonov Maksim
Published: November 2019

The article is devoted to the consideration of the method of increasing the mechanical and tribological properties of parts of mining machines due to quenching and electric arc hardening of the restored surface layer by welding. The essence of the proposed method was to restore the geometric dimensions of the part with cored wire with guaranteed hardness of 50-55 HRC and an increase in values up to 60 HRC due to electric arc hardening (EAH), which uses equipment available at each mining enterprise, namely, a tungsten-electrode torch cooled water and protective gas. Argon, which has a relatively low ionization potential, was used as a protective gas, and the use of carbon dioxide was not considered, owing to the increased tendency to crack formation of layers strengthened in this way. The results of studies of the acoustic characteristics of the restored part of the rotation of the welding, made of steel 30HGSA in the initial state of surfacing after electric arc hardening, after quenching and the combined combination of hardening and electric arc hardening are shown.
New Boron-Containing Materials for Surface Hardening
Authors: Panteleyenko Fedor , Ostanin Oleg , Panteleyenko Katerina , Petrishin Grigory
Published: November 2019

The authors propose the range of new materials for restoring and strengthening coatings deposition, which have the next advantages: they are made of dispersive metal wastes (allows solve the problem of waste recycling), inexpensive, doesn’t require special equipment and expensive expendables, provides high adhesion to the steel underlay, high wear resistance and low porosity. The microstructure and the main regularities in coatings obtained of these new materials via different methods are researched and described in this paper. Based on this, the main recommendations in applying area for these coatings can be formulated. Industrial testing of such coatings confirmed their high exploitation properties. New materials can be applied for restoring and strengthening of metallurgical equipment, agricultural tillage and forage machines, elements of constructing machines metal parts.
The “Road Map” of the Potential Development Assessment of the Component Machine Building in the Single-Industry Region
Authors: Kazachenko Svetlana , Kulay Svetlana , Pudov Evgeniy , Shvakov Evgeniy
Published: November 2019

The development of component machine building in mining regions can become a key factor in the economic diversification, as well as the implementation of the import substitution program in Russia. The aim of this study is to develop an action plan (“road map”). It is also to assess the possibility of developing component machine-building in the single-industry mining region (on the example of Kemerovo region). The objectives of the study include formulation of goals and objectives of the “road map”. The task is also to identify the key elements and main directions of the component machine-building development, to form the action plan taking into account the time factor. The results of the road map provide an information base for the initial stage of the component machine building development program. The production capabilities of the region, domestic demand for components and assemblies of the working equipment, personnel needs, and opportunities for placing innovative business as a resident of TOSER in single-industry town, all these should be taken into account.
CRM Systems Management of Metallurgical Companies in Kazakhstan Based on the TRI * M System Methodology
Authors: Islamgaleyev Arman
Published: November 2019

The article presents material on the practical implementation of CRM programs in metallurgical organizations and the experience of its usage. In the result of the study, an attempt was made to generalize the configuration of the CRM approach to relationships and programs accounting, as well as typical impressions of the entire CRM implementation process using as integrated platform for the stakeholders in the form of TRI * M system an analytical tool.
Applying Selected Quality Management Tools to Creation the Ecological Quality of Manufacturing Processes and Products
Authors: Popek Stanisław , Popek Adam
Published: November 2019

The objective of this paper is to theoretically verify whether or not it is possible to apply some selected quality management tools to model the ecological quality of manufacturing processes and products in a company that is a plant manufacturing steel structures, traction towers, and lamp posts. Also, there are presented methods involving these selected quality management tools, and aiming at: solving problems occurring in this company, improving the quality of the company’s products and services, and decreasing the production costs. With quality management tools applied to determining detrimental effects of manufacturing processes and products manufactured on the environment, it is possible to control them within the entire product’s life cycle, as well to take effective corrective actions for the purpose of improving both the quality and the environment.
The place of machine parts production in the restructuring Bulgarian industry
Authors: Deneva Aneta
Published: November 2019

The end of the 20th century was quite stormy and left its mark in all fields of human existence. Moreover, it faced the human race with new challenges and trials. One of them is the wholly change in the economic system of society. The Bulgarian economy was also not pass of such changes. They were accompanied by large and painful transformations and turbulence. One of the most affected areas was industrial production. Its restructuring, the emergence and overcoming of various asymmetry continues to this day. At the present time, when we talk about the “new Industrial Revolution”, the digitization of the processes in the economy, when the world switched to Industry 4.0 the problem with the construction of a modern and competitive industrial sector is even more topical. An important part of this sector is the “machine parts production” industry. Over the years it also underwent a number of dips and transformations, but managed to maintain its position and lead role in the Bulgarian industry.
Materials Grindability
Authors: Shumyacher Vyacheslav , Kryukov Sergey , Kulik Olga , Kennedy Xavier
Published: November 2019

A physical description of material grindability is proposed as a property of deformation and surface destruction of processed surface at the envelope removal. A mechanism for microchip formation is described, which consists in changing mobility of the metal being grinded in “abrasive grain -workpiece” contact, which leads to uneven removal of the energy transmitted by abrasive particle. Criteria for assessing the grindability of metals and methodology for their determination are given. In this article, we described an automated measuring complex (AMC “Grinding”), which was developed, designed and tested by us. This complex is used to solve the aim of the monitoring of grinding process at all stages of abrasive treatment and gives the opportunity to make the adjustments at all stages of the technological process, taking into account both the properties of the abrasive tool and the properties of lubricating and cooling technological means and treatment regimes. The principle of operation of an automated complex is based on statistical analysis of output energy parameters of technological equipment operation. The proposed method for evaluating grindability has been experimentally tested when grinding parts of bearings under production conditions. As a result of processing the obtained data, rational tool characteristics and grinding modes were assigned, providing the required quality indicators.
Optimal trade credit and replenishment policies for non-instantaneous deteriorating items
Authors: Sharma Anuj Kumar , Tiwari Sunil , Yadavalli V.S.S. , Jaggi Chandra K.
Published: November 2019

The present study presents a fuzzy inventory model for non-instantaneous deteriorating items under conditions of permissible delay in payments. In the current paper, we incorporate the condition in which, the supplier accepts the partial payment at the end of the credit period and the reaming amount after that period under the term and condition. Here, the demand rate is a function of the selling price. Also, it is assumed that shortages are allowed and are fully backlogged. The present paper also considers that the interest earned (IE) on the fixed deposit amount, i.e., revenue generated by fulfilling the shortage, balance amount, after settling the account is higher than that of usual interest rate (Ie). Hence, the objective of this study is to determine the retailer’s optimal policies that maximize the total profit. Also, some theoretical results are obtained, which shows that the optimal solution not only exists, it is unique also. The impact of the new proposed credit policy is investigated on the optimality of the solution for the non-instantaneous deteriorating products. The validation of the proposed model and its solution method is demonstrated through the numerical example. The results indicate that the inventory model, along with the solution method, provides a powerful tool to the retail managers under real-world situations. Results demonstrate that it is essential for the managers to consider the inclusion of new proposed credit policy significantly increases the net annual profit.
Hydroalkylation of Unactivated Alkenes with Ketones and 5-Benzylfurfurals Enabled by Amine/Pd(II) Cooperative Catalysis
Authors: Sayed Mostafa , Shen Hong-Cheng , Zhang Ling , Gong Liu-Zhu
Published: November 2019

An intermolecular addition of ketones to unactivated alkenes has been developed by means of Pd(II)/amine cooperative catalysis, which incorporates the simultaneous activation of amide-containing alkenes and α-carbon of ketones enabled by Pd(II) catalyst and enamine, respectively. Moreover, the addition of 5-benzylfurfural derivatives to an unactivated alkene has also been achieved by integrating Pd(II) and trienamine catalysis to provide γ-adducts at the benzylic position of furfurals in good to high yields.
Camptodactyly Caused by an Anomalous Origin of the Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Tendon: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Duci Shkelzen B.
Published: November 2019

Camptodactyly is a flexion contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joints and is known as an isolated malformation that affects 1 in 300 in the population and can be inherited as an autosomal dominant trait with variable expression.

A 17-year-old female was referred to the Clinic of Plastic Surgery, University Clinical Center of Kosovo, Prishtina, for the first time with camptodactyly of the little finger in the right hand. She was presented with a progressive flexion contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joint greater than 110 degrees of her right little finger.

According to our observations from outpatient consultations, we concluded that the case of camptodactyly in the little finger in the flexible form (>110 degrees), which underwent surgical treatment, presented excellent result. Therefore, we think that the surgical technique used in our case report will contribute to treating this complicated deformity.
The effect of craniectomy size on mortality, outcome, and complications after decompressive craniectomy at a rural trauma center
Authors: Sedney Cara L. , Julien Terrence , Manon Jacinto , Wilson Alison
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Decompressive craniectomy (DC) has increasing support with current studies suggesting an improvement in both survival rates and outcomes with this intervention. However, questions surround this procedure; specifically, no evidence has indicated the optimal craniectomy size. Larger craniectomy is thought to better decrease intracranial pressure, but with a possible increase in complication rates. Our hypothesis is that a larger craniectomy may improve mortality and outcome, but may increase complication rates. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational therapeutic study was undertaken to determine if craniectomy size is related to complication rates, mortality, or outcome. Our institution's Trauma Registry was searched for patients undergoing DC. Craniectomy size was measured by antero-posterior (AP) diameter. Mortality, outcome (through admission and discharge Glasgow Coma Score and Glasgow Outcome Scale), and complications (such as re-bleeding, re-operation, hygroma, hydrocephalus, infection, and syndrome of the trephined) were noted. Complications, mortality, and outcome were then compared to craniectomy size, to determine if any relation existed to support our hypothesis. Results: 20 patients met criteria for inclusion in this study. Craniectomy size as measured by AP diameter was correlated with a statistically significant improvement in mortality within the group. All patients with a craniectomy size less than 10 cm died. However, outcome was not significantly related to craniectomy size in the group. Similarly, complication rates did not differ significantly compared to craniectomy size. Discussion: This study provides Level 3 evidence that craniectomy size may be significantly related to improved mortality within our group, supporting our initial hypothesis; however, no significant improvement in outcome was seen. Similarly, in contrast to our hypothesis, complication rates did not significantly correlate with craniectomy size.
Organophosphate intermediate syndrome with neurological complications of extrapyramidal symptoms in clinical practice
Authors: Detweiler Mark B.
Published: November 2019

Organophosphates (OPs) are ubiquitous in the world as domestic and industrial agricultural insecticides. Intentional poisoning as suicides attempts are clinical phenomena seen in emergency departments and clinics in agricultural areas. Intermediate syndrome with the neurological complication of extra pyramidal symptoms following acute OP ingestion may occur in pediatric and adult cases. While death is the most serious consequence of toxic OP doses, low levels of exposure and nonfatal doses may disrupt the neurobehavioral development of fetuses and children in addition to bring linked to testicular cancer and male and female infertility. These are disturbing. Chronic and acute toxicity from OPs are barriers to the health of our present and future generations. Symptoms and treatment of acute and chronic OP exposure are briefly referenced with inclusion of the intermediate syndrome. Suggestions for local and systemic reduction of the acute and long term consequences of OP ingestion are opined.
Effect of the low-resistance tunnel barriers induced inhomogeneous spin current distribution in graphene crossed configuration lateral spin valve
Authors: Liu Yanping , Zeng Cheng , Ding Junnan , Zhong Jiahong , Gao Yuanji , Kuang Xiaofei , Yu Juan , Cao Lingkai , He Jun , Liu Zongwen
Published: November 2019

The nonlocal spin valve configuration consists of two ferromagnetic and nonmagnetic channels, which is an effective configuration for determining spin injection and accumulation. Here, we report that a reversed nonlocal spin signal was detected by changing the voltage probe configurations in graphene (Py/MgO/graphene/MgO/Py) lateral spin valves. The abnormal reversed spin-dependent nonlocal voltage is attributed to the nonuniform pinhole at the interface of the low-resistance tunnel barrier, which makes the charge current flow through the detection electrode and return to the graphene channel. We demonstrate that the channel-width induced spin-polarized current inhomogeneity significantly contributes to nonlocal resistance. A detailed description and simulated results of the tunnel junctions provide evidence for the reversal of the nonlocal voltage sign induced by the low-resistance tunnel barriers. Our work sheds light on the understanding of the spatial distribution of the spin current and the effect of the tunnel barrier, which are essential for the development of spintronic devices.
Internal flow properties in a capillary bore
Authors: Wong Wei-Ying , Bjørnestad Maria , Lin Chang , Kao Ming-Jer , Kalisch Henrik , Guyenne Philippe , Roeber Volker , Yuan Juan-Ming
Published: November 2019

In this work, a detailed description of the internal flow field in a collapsing bore generated on a slope in a wave flume is given. It is found that in the case at hand, just prior to breaking, the shape of the free surface and the flow field below are dominated by capillary effects. While numerical approximations are able to predict the development of the free surface as it shoals on the laboratory beach, the internal flow field is poorly predicted by standard numerical models.
Halo currents and vertical displacements after ITER disruptions
Authors: Boozer Allen H.
Published: November 2019

Axisymmetric control of the vertical position of highly shaped tokamaks, such as ITER, requires active feedback. In ITER, this control will be lost during the period in which the plasma current decays following a thermal quench of a disruption; the decay is sufficiently rapid that the surrounding walls in ITER can be approximated as perfect conductors. When axisymmetric feedback control was required before the disruption, it is shown that the edge safety factor tends to drop as the plasma current decays following a thermal quench. When the q = 2 surface approaches the plasma edge, a strong nonaxisymmetric halo current is expected to arise, which could occur when the plasma current has decayed less than 20% from the predisruption magnitude.
Three-dimensional shock-sulfur hexafluoride bubble interaction
Authors: Zhu Yuejin , Yang Zhiwei , Gao Longkun , Luo Kai Hong
Published: November 2019

The evolution of shock-sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) bubble interaction is investigated using a detailed three-dimensional numerical simulation. The influences of the end wall distance on the bubble evolution are analyzed by using the high-resolution simulations. The results show that vorticities mainly emerge at the interfaces of the shock wave and the SF6 bubble, and a downstream jet is formed, owing to the impingement of the high pressure in the vicinity of the downstream pole of the bubble and the induction of nearby vorticities. Besides, the big vortices of the SF6 bubble could interact with the walls in the y-direction to increase the bubble volume. When the end wall distance is shortened, a short and wide downstream jet is formed, owing to the untimely interaction of the reflected shock wave with the distorted SF6 bubble. Also, a new upstream jet emerges behind the impingement of the reflected shock wave, and there is no interaction between the distorted SF6 bubble and the wall in the y-direction until a very late time. From a quantitative point of view, the discrepancy between the bubble volume and effective bubble volume is larger in the case with a long end wall distance, which has enhanced vorticities and strengthened bubble-wall interaction. Moreover, the reflected shock wave has a dominant compression effect on the distorted SF6 bubble evolution for the two cases with different end wall distances, but for the case with a longer end wall distance, the bubble-wall interaction has a more significant influence than the influence of vorticities on the bubble volume increase. The computational results demonstrate the three-dimensional effects of shock-SF6 bubble interactions, which have not been seen in previous two-dimensional simulations.
Quantum dot thermometry at ultra-low temperature in a dilution refrigerator with a 4He immersion cell
Authors: Nicolí G. , Märki P. , Bräm B. A. , Röösli M. P. , Hennel S. , Hofmann A. , Reichl C. , Wegscheider W. , Ihn T. , Ensslin K.
Published: November 2019

Experiments performed at a temperature of a few millikelvins require effective thermalization schemes, low-pass filtering of the measurement lines, and low-noise electronics. Here, we report on the modifications to a commercial dilution refrigerator with a base temperature of 3.5 mK that enable us to lower the electron temperature to 6.7 mK measured from the Coulomb peak width of a quantum dot gate-defined in an [Al]GaAs heteostructure. We present the design and implementation of a liquid 4He immersion cell tight against superleaks, implement an innovative wiring technology, and develop optimized transport measurement procedures.
A string-driven rotor for efficient energy harvesting from ultra-low frequency excitations
Authors: Fan Kangqi , Zhang Yiwei , E Shiju , Tang Lihua , Qu Hengheng
Published: November 2019

This Letter reports a string-driven rotor for constructing ultralow frequency energy harvesters. Consisting of a disk-shaped rotor with a shaft, an elastic string, and an inelastic string, the proposed rotor structure can convert ultralow frequency vibrations or linear reciprocating motions to high-speed rotation of the rotor without any sophisticated transmission mechanism. On the basis of the string-driven rotor, an electromagnetic energy harvester is designed, and the corresponding theoretical model is established. Both simulation and experiments demonstrate the high output performance of the harvester under a periodic excitation with an amplitude of 5 mm and at a frequency lower than 5 Hz. The harvester also generates 6.5 mW power when driven by hand at a frequency of approximately 4 Hz. This study exhibits the exciting potential of the string-driven rotor for boosting the efficiency of harvesting energy from pervasive ultralow frequency excitations.
Energy absorption effects of the electromagnetic waves in collisional dusty plasmas
Authors: Wang Zhibin , Li Jinrong , Li Bowen , Nie Qiuyue , Zhang Zhonglin , Mao Aohua
Published: November 2019

Energy absorption of electromagnetic (EM) waves in collisional dusty plasmas is attracting much attention from researchers due to its applications in many fields, such as plasma antennas, blackout research during reentry, plasma stealth technology, and the design of microwave transmission in plasmas. In this paper, the propagation characteristics, in particular, the energy absorption effects of EM waves in partially ionized unmagnetized collisional dusty plasmas, are investigated. The results show that the effective energy absorption of EM waves is mainly due to the interaction between electrons and waves, and the plasmas with proper collisional frequencies can be used as a broadband frequency EM wave absorption medium with moderate absorption efficiency. Quantitative analyses of the characteristics of the EM waves that propagate in the collisional dusty plasmas are also included in this study.
Microfiber-shaped building blocks assemble to form liver cell tissue with blood vessel networks
Authors: Liebendorfer Adam
Published: November 2019

Using a degradable shell made of calcium alginate allowed for construction of first-of-its-kind metabolically complex liver-replicating tissues.
Multivalued solutions of hyperbolic Monge-Ampère equations: solvability, integrability, approximation
Authors: Tunitsky D. V.
Published: November 2019

Solvability in the class of multivalued solutions is investigated for Cauchy problems for hyperbolic Monge-Ampère equations. A characteristic uniformization is constructed on definite solutions of this problem, using which the existence and uniqueness of a maximal solution is established. It is shown that the characteristics in the different families that lie on a maximal solution and converge to a definite boundary point have infinite lengths. In this way a theory of global solvability is developed for the Cauchy problem for hyperbolic Monge-Ampère equations, which is analogous to the corresponding theory for ordinary differential equations. Using the same methods, a stable explicit difference scheme for approximating multivalued solutions can be constructed and a number of problems which are important for applications can be integrated by quadratures.

Bibliography: 23 titles.
Boundary behaviour of open discrete mappings on Riemannian manifolds. II
Authors: Ilyutko D. P. , Sevost’yanov E. A.
Published: November 2019

The boundary behaviour of classes of ring mappings, which generalize quasiconformal mappings in the sense of Gehring, is under investigation. Theorems proving that they have continuous boundary extensions are established in terms of prime ends of regular domains. Results on the equicontinuity of mappings in these classes in the closure of a fixed domain are also established in these terms.

Bibliography: 45 titles.
Barriers and enablers to delivering preventative and early intervention footcare to people with diabetes: a scoping review of healthcare professionals' perceptions
Authors: Mullan Leanne , Driscoll Andrea , Wynter Karen , Rasmussen Bodil
Published: November 2019

The aim of this study is to examine barriers and enablers to delivering preventative and early intervention footcare to people with diabetes, from the perspective of healthcare professionals within primary care. MEDLINE, CINAHL and Scopus databases, as well as Google Scholar, were searched in September 2018. Inclusion criteria included: English language, qualitative and quantitative studies, since 1998, reporting on barriers or enablers, as reported by primary care health professionals, to delivering preventative or early intervention footcare to people with diabetes. In total, 339 studies were screened. Eight studies met criteria. Perceived barriers to providing footcare included: geographical, administrative and communication factors; referral and care guideline availability and implementation challenges; limited availability of specialists and high-risk foot services; and limited resources including time and funding. Enablers to footcare were: implementation of footcare programs; education; clear definition of staff roles; development of foot assessment reminder systems; and reminders for people with diabetes to remove their shoes at appointments. Barriers and enablers to footcare are multifaceted. Healthcare professionals are affected by health system and individual factors. By implementing strategies to address barriers to footcare delivery, it is possible to improve outcomes for people with diabetes, thus reducing the effect of diabetes-related foot disease.
Mu opioid receptor expression and localisation in murine spermatozoa and its role in IVF
Authors: Olabarrieta Estibaliz , Totorikaguena Lide , Romero-Aguirregomezcorta Jon , Agirregoitia Naiara , Agirregoitia Ekaitz
Published: November 2019

The endogenous opioid peptides are reported to be involved in the regulation of reproductive physiology. Many of the studies conclude with statements on the harmful effect of opioids on male fertility but, in fact, there are no studies regarding the real fertilisation potential of spermatozoa that have been exposed to opioids. The aim of the present study was to examine if modulation of mu opioid receptor (OPRM1) in murine spermatozoa during capacitation influenced embryo production after IVF. The presence of OPRM1 in murine mature spermatozoa was analysed by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence. We analysed the involvement of OPRM1 on IVF and pre-implantational embryo development by incubating the spermatozoa with the opioid agonist morphine and/or antagonist naloxone. We verified the presence of OPRM1 in murine mature spermatozoa, not only at the mRNA level but also the protein level. Moreover, incubation of the spermatozoa with morphine, before IVF, had an effect on the fertilisation rate of the spermatozoa and reduced the numbers of blastocysts, which was reversed by naloxone. Considering that opioids are widely used clinically, it is important to take into account their effect, via OPRM1, on the fertility of patients.
Morphology, developmental stages and quality parameters of in vitro-produced equine embryos
Authors: Carnevale Elaine M. , Metcalf Elizabeth S.
Published: November 2019

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is used to produce equine embryos invitro. The speed of embryo development invitro is roughly equivalent to what has been described for embryos produced invivo. Morphological evaluations of ICSI-produced embryos are complicated by the presence of debris and the dark nature of equine embryo cytoplasm. Morulas and early blastocysts produced invitro appear similar to those produced invivo. However, with expansion of the blastocyst, distinct differences are observed compared with uterine embryos. In culture, embryos do not undergo full expansion and thinning of the zona pellucida (ZP) or capsule formation. Cells of the inner cell mass (ICM) are dispersed, in contrast with the differentiated trophoblast and ICM observed in embryos collected from uteri. As blastocysts expand invitro, embryo cells often escape the ZP as organised or disorganised extrusions of cells, probably through the hole incurred during ICSI. Quality assessment of invitro-produced early stage equine embryos is in its infancy, because limited information is available regarding the relationship between morphology and developmental competence. Early embryo development invivo is reviewed in this paper, with comparisons made to embryo development invitro and clinical assessments from a laboratory performing commercial ICSI for >15 years.