bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of UGT1A1 polymorphisms on Raltegravir and its glucuronide plasma concentrations in a cohort of HIV-1 infected patients
Authors: Belkhir Leïla , Seguin-Devaux Carole , Elens Laure , Pauly Caroline , Gengler Nicolas , Schneider Serge , Ruelle Jean , Haufroid Vincent , Vandercam Bernard
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of UGT1A1 polymorphisms on Raltegravir (RAL) and its metabolite RAL-glucuronide trough plasma concentrations ([RAL]plasma and [RAL-glu]plasma) and on the metabolic ratio (MR): [RAL-glu]plasma/[RAL]plasma. UGT1A1 genotyping was performed on 96 patients. 44% (n = 42) were homozygous UGT1A1*1/*1 while 50% (n = 48) and 6% (n = 6) were UGT1A1*28 and UGT1A1*36 carriers, respectively. The median concentration and interquartile range (IQR) of [RAL]plasma were 88.5 ng/ml (41.0–236), 168 ng/ml (85.8–318) and 92.5 ng/ml (36.4–316) for UGT1A1*1/*1, UGT1A1*28 and UGT1A1*36 carriers, respectively. Only the difference between UGT1A1*1/*1 and *28 carriers was statistically significant (p = 0.022). The median MR (IQR) were 5.8 (3–10), 2.9 (1.6–5.3) and 3.2 (1.7–5.9) for UGT1A1*1/*1, UGT1A1*28 and UGT1A1*36 carriers, respectively. Only the difference between UGT1A1*1/*1 and *28 carriers was statistically significant (p = 0.004) with an allele-dependent effect: UGT1A1*28 homozygous having lower MR than heterozygous carriers who show lower MR compared to *1/*1. Except for the sensation of fatigue, this PK effect did not correlate with clinical adverse events or biological abnormalities. In Conclusion, we demonstrate that UGT1A1*28 polymorphism has a significant impact on RAL metabolism: UGT1A1*28 carriers being characterized by higher [RAL]plasma and lower MR.
Co-regulation of photosynthetic capacity by nitrogen, phosphorus and magnesium in a subtropical Karst forest in China
Authors: Wang Jing , Wen Xuefa , Zhang Xinyu , Li Shenggong , Zhang Da-Yong
Published: May 2018

Leaf photosynthetic capacity is mainly constrained by nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Little attention has been given to the photosynthetic capacity of mature forests with high calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) in the Karst critical zone. We measured light-saturated net photosynthesis (Asat), photosynthetic capacity (maximum carboxylation rate [Vcmax], and maximum electron transport rate [Jmax]) as well as leaf nutrient contents (N, P, Ca, Mg, potassium [K], and sodium [Na]), leaf mass per area (LMA), and leaf thickness (LT) in 63 dominant plants in a mature subtropical forest in the Karst critical zone in southwestern China. Compared with global data, plants showed higher Asat for a given level of P. Vcmax and Jmax were mainly co-regulated by N, P, Mg, and LT. The ratios of Vcmax to N or P, and Jmax to N or P were significantly positively related to Mg. We speculate that the photosynthetic capacity of Karst plants can be modified by Mg because Mg can enhance photosynthetic N and P use efficiency.
Three-Dimensional Printed Electrode and Its Novel Applications in Electronic Devices
Authors: Foo Chuan Yi , Lim Hong Ngee , Mahdi Mohd Adzir , Wahid Mohd Haniff , Huang Nay Ming
Published: May 2018

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology provides a novel approach to material fabrication for various applications because of its ability to create low-cost 3D printed platforms. In this study, a printable graphene-based conductive filament was employed to create a range of 3D printed electrodes (3DEs) using a commercial 3D printer. This printing technology provides a simplistic and low-cost approach, which eliminates the need for the ex-situ modification and post-treatment of the product. The conductive nature of the 3DEs provides numerous deposition platforms for electrochemical active nanomaterials such as graphene, polypyrrole, and cadmium sulfide, either through electrochemical or physical approaches. To provide proof-of-concept, these 3DEs were physiochemically and electrochemically evaluated and proficiently fabricated into a supercapacitor and photoelectrochemical sensor. The as-fabricated supercapacitor provided a good capacitance performance, with a specific capacitance of 98.37 Fg−1. In addition, these 3DEs were fabricated into a photoelectrochemical sensing platform. They had a photocurrent response that exceeded expectations (~724.1 μA) and a lower detection limit (0.05 μM) than an ITO/FTO glass electrode. By subsequently modifying the printing material and electrode architecture, this 3D printing approach could provide a facile and rapid manufacturing process for energy devices based on the conceptual design.
Long-term Outcome of Recoverable stents for Budd-Chiari syndrome Complicated with Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis
Authors: Bi Yonghua , Chen Hongmei , Ding Penxu , Ren Jianzhuang , Han Xinwei
Published: May 2018

This study aimed to present long-term results of a 12-year patient follow-up of recoverable stents for BCS complicated by inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis. Forty consecutive patients with BCS complicated by IVC thrombosis were treated with recoverable stents. The median duration of symptoms was 24 months. Recoverable stents was placed after predilation of the obstructed IVC, and then agitation thrombolysis or catheter-directed thrombolysis of IVC was performed. The recoverable stents was removed eventually after thrombus disappeared. Clinical patency was defined as absence or improvement of symptoms. Patients were subsequently followed-up by color Doppler ultrasound. Recoverable stents placement, balloon angioplasty and thrombolysis were technically successful in all patients. Stents were successfully removed in 92.1% of patients. A few serious related complications including one acute pulmonary thromboembolism, one stent migration, and one failure retrieval stents occurred. The median follow-up was 43.7 months. The long-term results were satisfactory except 2 patients who presented with a restenosis or re-obstruction and underwent additional therapy. There were 5 deaths owing to pulmonary embolism or underlying malignant disease 0.4–101.8 months after the procedures, including one procedure-related death. In conclusion, Recoverable stents treatment is safe and effective for BCS complicated by IVC thrombosis, with a good long-term outcome.
An efficient method for the synthesis of a polymer brushviaclick chemistry and its ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of AFP
Authors: Yang Dongcheng , Wang Jing , Chen Hou , Xu Hui , Wang Wenxiang , Yang Huawei , Wei Donglei , Bai Liangjiu
Published: May 2018

A sensitive electrochemical immunosensor based on polyacrylonitrile-g-poly(hydroxyethylmethacrylate) (PAN-g-PHEMA)/graphene oxide (GO) composites was prepared for the ultrasensitive detection of tumor markers.
Guest exchange in a porous cucurbit[6]uril-based metal–organic rotaxane framework probed by NMR and X-ray crystallography
Authors: Wu Xue-Song , Wang Xin-Long , Zhu Fu-Long , Bao Hong-Fei , Qin Chao , Su Zhong-Min
Published: May 2018

The first three-dimensional porous CB[6]-based metal–organic rotaxane framework with guest exchange in a single-crystal-to-single-crystal fashion is reported.
Single step synthesized three dimensional spindle-like nanoclusters as lithium-ion battery anodes
Authors: Zhang Lingyu , Gao Zhigang , Xie Haiming , Wang Chungang , Li Lu , Su Zhongmin
Published: May 2018

A facile, green, mild and one-step conventional heating method was developed to synthesize monodisperse Sn-doped Fe2O3 nanoclusters with a novel spindle-like 3D architecture as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries.
Three-dimensional Mn–Cu–Ce ternary mixed oxide networks prepared by polymer-assisted deposition for HCHO catalytic oxidation
Authors: Jiang Xinnan , Li Xiaohui , Wang Jitong , Long Donghui , Ling Licheng , Qiao Wenming
Published: May 2018

Mn–Cu–Ce ternary mixed oxide networks with a three-dimensional (3D) structure were developed by a polymer-assisted deposition method.
Multiple cation-doped linear polymers toward ATP sensing and a cell imaging application
Authors: Ma Hengchang , Ma Yucheng , Lei Lei , Yang Manyi , Qin Yanfang , Lei Ziqiang , Chang Lu , Wang Tao , Yang Yuan , Yao Xiaoqiang
Published: May 2018

A set of multiple cation-doped linear polymers (abbreviated as OPY-1,2-BE, OPY-1,4-BB, OPY-1,8-BO, OPY-1,4-OBB) synthesized from a dipyridine derivative (OPY) and dibrominated compounds were employed as fluorescent probes for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) sensing.
Fluorescent nanoparticle sensors with tailor-made recognition units and proximate fluorescent reporter groups
Authors: Xing Xiaoyu , Zhao Yan
Published: May 2018

Molecular imprinting in micelles followed by covalent modification of the binding pocket yielded fluorescent sensors with precisely constructed binding pockets.
Barium cation-responsive supra-amphiphile constructed by a new twisted cucurbit[15]uril/paraquat recognition motif in water
Authors: Li Qing , Sun Jifu , Zhou Jiong , Hua Bin , Shao Li , Huang Feihe
Published: May 2018

A new, strong, and barium cation-responsive host–guest recognition motif based on twisted cucurbit[15]uril and paraquat was established in water.
Intermittent time-set technique controlling the temperature of magnetic-hyperthermia-ablation for tumor therapy
Authors: Tang Xiuzhen , Xu Yanjun , Chen Jie , Ying Tao , Wang Longchen , Jiang Lixin , Wang Yan , Wang Zhenhai , Ling Yi , Wang Fengjuan , Yao Li , Ran Haitao , Wang Zhigang , Hu Bing , Zheng Yuanyi
Published: May 2018

Magnetic-hyperthermia-ablation is considered as an effective and minimally invasive technology for tumor therapy.
Effect of dipole polarization orientation on surface plasmon coupling with green emitting quantum wells by cathodoluminescence
Authors: Feng Yulong , Chen Zhizhong , Li Chengcheng , Chen Yifan , Zhan Jinglin , Chen Yiyong , Nie Jingxin , Jiao Fei , Kang Xiangning , Li Shunfeng , Wang Qi , Yu Tongjun , Zhang Guoyi , Shen Bo
Published: May 2018

Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are fabricated on the cross-section of green emitting quantum wells (QWs).
Lignans and isoflavonoids from the stems of Pisonia umbellifera
Authors: Liu Zhiguo , Zheng Xilong , Wang Yanan , Tang Mengyue , Chen Shilin , Zhang Fangbo , Li Li , Zhang Cun , Sun Yi
Published: May 2018

Twelve new compounds including four isoflavonolignans (1a/1b and 2a/2b), two neolignans (3a/3b), and six isoflavonoids (5–10), together with seven known compounds (4 and 11–16) were isolated from the stems of Pisonia umbellifera.
Correction: Tunnel injection from WS2 quantum dots to InGaN/GaN quantum wells
Authors: Merden Santiago Svette Reina , Caigas Septem P. , Lin Tzu-Neng , Yuan Chi-Tsu , Shen Ji-Lin , Chiu Ching-Hsueh , Kuo Hao-Chung
Published: May 2018

Correction for ‘Tunnel injection from WS2 quantum dots to InGaN/GaN quantum wells’ by Svette Reina Merden Santiago et al., RSC Adv., 2018, 8, 15399–15404.
Poly(ionic liquid) binders as ionic conductors and polymer electrolyte interfaces for enhanced electrochemical performance of water splitting electrodes
Authors: Spanos Ioannis , Neugebauer Sebastian , Guterman Ryan , Yuan Jiayin , Schlögl Robert , Antonietti Markus
Published: May 2018

A PIL blocks metals at the electrode, while it is permeable to water, hydroxy ions and the as-generated oxygen.
Against the rules: pressure induced transition from high to reduced order
Authors: Neuhaus Frederik , Mueller Dennis , Tanasescu Radu , Stefaniu Cristina , Zaffalon Pierre-Léonard , Balog Sandor , Ishikawa Takashi , Reiter Renate , Brezesinski Gerald , Zumbuehl Andreas
Published: May 2018

Envisioning the next generation of drug delivery nanocontainers requires more in-depth information on the fundamental physical forces at play in bilayer membranes.
Ultrafine CoPS nanoparticles encapsulated in N, P, and S tri-doped porous carbon as an efficient bifunctional water splitting electrocatalyst in both acid and alkaline solutions
Authors: Hu Yiping , Li Feng , Long Yu , Yang Haidong , Gao Lili , Long Xuefeng , Hu Haiguo , Xu Na , Jin Jun , Ma Jiantai
Published: May 2018

Searching for the same highly efficient, stable and non-noble metal electrocatalysts for the hydrogen/oxygen evolution reaction (HER/OER) is crucial to renewable-energy conversion systems.
Designer hydrogenated wrinkled yolk@shell TiO2 architectures towards advanced visible light photocatalysts for selective alcohol oxidation
Authors: Ziarati Abolfazl , Badiei Alireza , Luque Rafael , Ouyang Weiyi
Published: May 2018

Advanced wrinkled yolk@shell-TiO2 architectures were prepared via three sequential steps and provided excellent visible-light photocatalytic activities in selective alcohol oxidation.
A single ion conducting separator and dual mediator-based electrolyte for high-performance lithium–oxygen batteries with non-carbon cathodes
Authors: Wu Shichao , Qiao Yu , Deng Han , Zhou Haoshen
Published: May 2018

Lithium–oxygen batteries with non-carbon cathode realize largely-improved performance by designing mediators and Li+-Nafion separator to prevent self-discharge and shuttle problems.
Unraveling the molecular mechanisms of thermo-responsive properties of silk-elastin-like proteins by integrating multiscale modeling and experiment
Authors: Yeo Jingjie , Huang Wenwen , Tarakanova Anna , Zhang Yong-Wei , Kaplan David L. , Buehler Markus J.
Published: May 2018

Adaptive hydrogels tailor-made from silk-elastin-like proteins (SELPs) possess excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability with properties that are tunable and responsive to multiple simultaneous external stimuli.
Coordination of the chemical and electronic processes in GaSb(100) surface modification with aqueous sodium sulfide solution
Authors: Lebedev Mikhail V. , Lvova Tatiana V. , Sedova Irina V.
Published: May 2018

GaSb(100) surface electronic passivation with aqueous Na2S solution is driven by the redox reaction of gallium sulfide and elemental antimony formation.
[60]PCBM single crystals: remarkably enhanced band-like charge transport, broadband UV-visible-NIR photo-responsivity and improved long-term air-stability
Authors: Zhao Xiaoming , Liu Tianjun , Hou Xueyan , Liu Zilu , Shi Wenda , Dennis T. John S.
Published: May 2018

[60]PCBM single crystals were prepared to understand their intrinsic photo-responsivity, stability, and charge transport properties.
Rational design and synthesis of bifunctional metal nanocrystals for probing catalytic reactions by surface-enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Zhang Yun , Wu Yiren , Qin Dong
Published: May 2018

This report highlights recent progress in the rational design, synthesis, and applications of bimetallic nanocrystals with integrated SERS and catalytic activities.
Pyroptosis in pterygium pathogenesis
Authors: Sun Naiyu , Zhang Hong
Published: May 2018

Pterygium is a common ocular disease characterized by proliferating fibrovascular tissue. Pyroptosis, a recently discovered programed cell death, is known to be associated with oxidative stress, one of the main causes of pterygia. Here, we aimed to study the role of pyroptosis in pterygium pathogenesis. The expression of nod-like receptor pyrins-3 (NLRP3), caspase-1, IL-18, and IL-1β was analyzed in 60 human pterygium tissues and 60 human conjunctival epithelium tissues using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analysis. Human conjunctival epithelial cells (HConECs) and human pterygium fibroblasts (HPFs) were primary cultured and the level of pyroptosis-associated factors was detected. Both cells were treated with H2O2, and cell lysis was detected by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay, the expression of the factors by qRT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and immunostaining. The downstream factors IL-18 and IL-1β were measured after inhibition of caspase-1 to confirm the caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis. α-SMA and E-cadherin were detected as indicators of pyroptosis-induced myofibroblast activation in HPFs. We discovered that the expression of the factors was significantly increased in pterygium and that caspase-1-dependent pyroptosis presents in both H2O2-treated HPFs and HConECs during which the expression of these factors was significantly elevated and the elevation of downstream factors IL-18 and IL-1β was restrained after caspase-1 inhibition. α-SMA increase and E-cadherin down-regulation were detected in H2O2-treated HPFs and the changes were reversed by caspase-1 inhibition. Pyroptosis displays a role in the pathological process of pterygium formation and progression. Pyroptosis appears to be an intriguing target to prevent pterygium pathogenesis.
PCSK9 inhibition with alirocumab reduces lipoprotein(a) levels in nonhuman primates by lowering apolipoprotein(a) production rate
Authors: Croyal Mikaël , Tran Thi-Thu-Trang , Blanchard Rose Hélène , Le Bail Jean-Christophe , Villard Elise F. , Poirier Bruno , Aguesse Audrey , Billon-Crossouard Stéphanie , Ramin-Mangata Stéphane , Blanchard Valentin , Nativel Brice , Chemello Kévin , Khantalin Ilya , Thedrez Aurélie , Janiak Philip , Krempf Michel , Boixel Christophe , Lambert Gilles , Guillot Etienne
Published: May 2018

Therapeutic antibodies targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) (e.g. alirocumab) lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] levels in clinical trials. We recently showed that PCSK9 enhances apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] secretion from primary human hepatocytes but does not affect Lp(a) cellular uptake. Here, we aimed to determine how PCSK9 neutralization modulates Lp(a) levels in vivo.

Six nonhuman primates (NHP) were treated with alirocumab or a control antibody (IgG1) in a crossover protocol. After the lowering of lipids reached steady state, NHP received an intravenous injection of [2H3]-leucine, and blood samples were collected sequentially over 48 h. Enrichment of apolipoproteins in [2H3]-leucine was assessed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). Kinetic parameters were calculated using numerical models with the SAAMII software. Compared with IgG1, alirocumab significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC) (−28%), LDL-C (−67%), Lp(a) (−56%), apolipoprotein B100 (apoB100) (−53%), and apo(a) (−53%). Alirocumab significantly increased the fractional catabolic rate of apoB100 (+29%) but not that of apo(a). Conversely, alirocumab sharply and significantly reduced the production rate (PR) of apo(a) (−42%), but not significantly that of apoB100, compared with IgG1, respectively.

In line with the observations made in human hepatocytes, the present kinetic study establishes that PCSK9 neutralization with alirocumab efficiently reduces circulating apoB100 and apo(a) levels by distinct mechanisms: apoB primarily by enhancing its catabolism and apo(a) primarily by lowering its production.
10 A/567 V normally off p‐GaN gate HEMT with high‐threshold voltage and low‐gate leakage current
Authors: Hao Ronghui , Wu Dongdong , Fu Kai , Song Liang , Chen Fu , Zhao Jie , Du Zhongkai , Zhang Bingliang , Wang Qilong , Yu Guohao , Cheng Kai , Cai Yong , Zhang Xinping , Zhang Baoshun
Published: May 2018

Normally off p‐gallium nitride (GaN) gate high‐electron‐mobility transistors (HEMTs) on silicon substrate were fabricated with hydrogen plasma treatment technology, which features a high‐resistivity cap layer (HRCL) at the access region. With hydrogen plasma treatment at the access region, the normally off operation was obtained with a threshold voltage of +2.5 V based on the linear extrapolation of the transfer curve. The fabricated HRCL‐HEMT with a gate width of 49.7 mm exhibits a maximum drain current of 10 A at VGS = 8 V and a high off‐state breakdown voltage of 567 V at VGS = 0 V with substrate grounded. Meanwhile, the HRCL‐HEMT also shows low‐gate leakage current of 1.3 × 10−7 and 3.3 × 10−10 A/mm at VGS = 8 V and = −30 V, respectively. The positive threshold voltage, high drain current, high‐breakdown voltage and low‐gate leakage show the potential of HRCL‐HEMT for power switching applications.
Efficient squarer for Type C.2 pentanomial
Authors: Chen Qing , Li Yin , Qi Chuanda
Published: May 2018

In recent years, two new types of irreducible pentanomials, i.e. Type C.1 and Type C.2 pentanomials, and their associated generalised polynomials bases (GPBs) have been proposed to yield efficient bit‐parallel multiplier architectures. The GPB squarer for Type C.1 pentanomial is also investigated previously. But no GPB squarer for Type C.2 pentanomial is given as these pentanomials are far more complicated. In this Letter, the authors give explicit GPB squarer formulae for all Type C.2 pentanomials by re‐classifying these pentanomials into certain sub‐groups, which is based on the parities of pentanomial parameters. As the main contribution of this Letter, the authors show that the GPB squarers for most Type C.2 pentanomials match the fastest results.
Unified approaches based effective capacity analysis over composite /gamma fading channels
Authors: Al‐Hmood H. , Al‐Raweshidy H.S.
Published: May 2018

The effective capacity of a communications system using unified models is analysed. To obtain a simple closed‐form mathematically tractable expression, two different unified approximate models have been used. The mixture gamma distribution which is a highly accurate approximation approach has been first employed to represent the signal‐to‐noise ratio of fading channel. In the second approach, the mixture of Gaussian distribution which is another unified representation approach has been utilised. A comparison between the simulated and numerical results using both distributions over composite /gamma fading channels have been provided.
Voltage slope‐based zero voltage switching detection method for wireless power transfer systems
Authors: Li Siqi , Shu Wenbin , Lu Sizhao
Published: May 2018

A zero voltage switching (ZVS) detection method, which relies on the half‐bridge output voltage slopes during the MOSFET turn‐on and turn‐off transient processes, is proposed for the wireless power transfer (WPT) systems in this Letter. A voltage slope detection circuit and its active control method are also proposed to convert the nanosecond transient signal to a steady voltage level, which can be handled by the microcontroller easily. By having the information of the turn‐on and turn‐off voltage slopes, the state of ZVS can be evaluated to optimise the switching losses. A 500 kHz, three‐coil resonant WPT system is built in order to evaluate the performance of the proposed detection method. Experimental results show that the ZVS state can be detected effectively. Also, the turn‐off current can be controlled to a constant value to optimise the switching losses under the load and parameter variations.
Impact analysis for user pairing on NOMA‐based energy harvesting relaying networks with imperfect CSI
Authors: Zhang Yangyang , Ge Jianhua
Published: May 2018

Non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) has been adopted as a potential research candidate in the fifth generation wireless networks owing to its better user fairness and high‐frequency spectrum effect. Energy harvesting has also been attracted for its advantage to prolong the lifetime and without sustained energy supply. Considering the system complexity and lower interference, in this study, a hybrid network is analysed. The multiple users are divided into multiple two‐user groups, where NOMA is applied within each group and orthogonal multiple access (OMA) is applied for inter‐group. Furthermore, with the actual scenario consideration, imperfect channel state information (ICSI) is taken into account in this paper. The authors conduct some works in this study. First, the system performance is analysed and closed‐form expressions for the exact outage probability of the two paired users are derived. By further evaluating the outage probability at the high system signal‐to‐noise ratio regimes, it is observed that error floor exists in the outage probability due to the presence of ICSI. Finally, numerical simulations are performed to compare NOMA and the general OMA to verify the superiority of NOMA and highlight the importance of considering ICSI in wireless networks.
Safeguarding multiuser communication using full‐duplex jamming and Q‐learning algorithm
Authors: Qiu Xiaoying , Jiang Ting , Wang Ning
Published: May 2018

In this study, the authors consider secure communications in multiuser wireless networks where full‐duplex (FD) jamming operates to enhance physical layer security. The considered multiuser system is equipped with FD legitimate receivers in contrast to conventional frameworks where a half‐duplex (HD) receiver is at hand. This study investigates an alternative solution in which the authors take advantage of FD capability of the receivers to send jamming signals against the eavesdropper. Under these assumptions, the impact of self‐interference and channel interference on physical layer security is investigated. They derive the expressions of secrecy outage probability and ergodic secrecy rate in the proposed system. Two FD jammer selection schemes are proposed to further improve the security. In addition, they apply a reinforcement learning technology, called Q‐learning, to model the interaction between the source and multiple jamming users. The preliminary results show that the application of FD jamming and user selection scheme leads to a significant improvement in the wireless network security.
High‐throughput and compact reconfigurable architectures for recursive filters
Authors: Shinde Vaishali , Jai Kumar Ganesh , Valencia Daniel , Alimohammad Amirhossein
Published: May 2018

This study presents various high‐throughput reconfigurable architectures and their hardware implementation characteristics for infinite impulse response (IIR) filters. It is known that finite word length effects can be alleviated, to some extent, by realising a high‐order IIR filter using the cascade of lower‐order filter sections. The authors utilise the cascade structure of the first‐order and second‐order filters and apply a set of optimisation techniques, such as cutset retiming, look‐ahead transformations, and interleaving for high‐throughput realisations of IIR filters. Since the cascade structure may require a relatively large number of computational resources and storage elements, which depends linearly on the number of sections, the authors also present a filter processor architecture for the compact implementation of IIR filters. Filter architectures are developed in the fully parameterisable fixed‐point representation and verified against their synthesisable Verilog descriptions. The authors present the implementation results of the transformed filter architectures on a Xilinx Virtex‐7 field‐programmable gate array (FPGA). To the best of their knowledge, this is the first presentation of various high‐throughput and compact IIR filter architectures and their FPGA implementation characteristics.
Impedance matching theory to design an all‐optical AND gate
Authors: Mondal Haraprasad , Sen Mrinal , Prakash Chandra , Goswami Kamanashis , Sarma Champak Kumar
Published: May 2018

An impedance matching theory‐based methodology is presented in this study for designing/optimising photonic crystal‐based all‐optical AND gate. A basic architecture for the AND gate is projected first, and thereafter the same is optimised utilising the proposed methodology. Performance of the AND gate is evaluated based on several metrics that are calculated using a finite‐difference‐time‐domain simulation. The optimised AND gate has exhibited a high extinction ratio in the order of 6.9 dB, within a very small footprint of . It also supports propagation of a high bit rate (≈1 Tb/S) and has a wide operational bandwidth (≈4 THz), which make the device suitable for different photonic integrated circuit applications.
Bi‐level decentralised active power control for large‐scale wind farm cluster
Authors: Huang Sheng , Wu Qiuwei , Guo Yifei , Lin Zhongwei
Published: May 2018

This study presents a bi‐level decentralised active power control (DAPC) for a large‐scale wind farm cluster (WFC), consisting of several wind farms for better active power dispatch. In the upper level, a distributed active power control scheme based on the distributed consensus is designed to achieve fair active power sharing among multiple wind farms, which generates the power reference for each wind farm. A distributed estimator is used to estimate the total available power of all wind farms. In the lower level, a centralised control scheme based on the model predictive control is proposed to regulate active power outputs of all wind turbines (WTs) within a wind farm, which reduces the fatigue loads of WTs while tracking the power reference obtained from the upper‐level control. A WFC with 8 wind farms and totally 160 WTs, was used to test the control performance of the proposed DAPC scheme.
A new approach to distant solar system object detection in large survey data sets
Authors: Perdelwitz V. , Völschow M. , Müller H. M.
Published: May 2018

Context. The recently postulated existence of a giant ninth planet in our solar system has sparked search efforts for distant solar system objects (SSOs) both via new observations and archival data analysis. Due to the likely faintness of the object in the optical and infrared regime, it has so far eluded detection.

Aims. We set out to re-analyze data acquired by the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE), an all-sky survey well suited for the detection of SSOs.

Methods. We present a new approach to SSO detection via parallactic fitting. Using the heliocentric distance as a fit parameter, our code transforms groups of three or more single-observation point sources to heliocentric coordinates under the assumption that all data stem from an object. The fact that the orbit of a distant SSO is approximately linear in heliocentric coordinates over long time-scales can be utilized to produce candidates, which can then be confirmed with follow-up observations.

Results. We demonstrate the feasibility of the approach by a posteriori detecting the outer SSO Makemake within WISE data. An all-sky search for Planet Nine yielded no detection.

Conclusions. While the postulated Planet Nine eluded detection by our algorithm, we tentatively predict that this new approach to moving-object analysis will enable the discovery of new distant SSOs that cannot be discovered by other algorithms. Especially in cases of sparse data observed over long time spans, our approach is unique and robust due to the use of only one fit parameter.
Solar barycentric dynamics from a new solar-planetary ephemeris
Authors: Cionco Rodolfo G. , Pavlov Dmitry A.
Published: May 2018

Aims. The barycentric dynamics of the Sun has increasingly been attracting the attention of researchers from several fields, due to the idea that interactions between the Sun’s orbital motion and solar internal functioning could be possible. Existing high-precision ephemerides that have been used for that purpose do not include the effects of trans-Neptunian bodies, which cause a significant offset in the definition of the solar system’s barycentre. In addition, the majority of the dynamical parameters of the solar barycentric orbit are not routinely calculated according to these ephemerides or are not publicly available.

Methods. We developed a special version of the IAA RAS lunar–solar–planetary ephemerides, EPM2017H, to cover the whole Holocene and 1 kyr into the future. We studied the basic and derived (e.g., orbital torque) barycentric dynamical quantities of the Sun for that time span. A harmonic analysis (which involves an application of VSOP2013 and TOP2013 planetary theories) was performed on these parameters to obtain a physics-based interpretation of the main periodicities present in the solar barycentric movement.

Results. We present a high-precision solar barycentric orbit and derived dynamical parameters (using the solar system’s invariable plane as the reference plane), widely accessible for the whole Holocene and 1 kyr in the future. Several particularities and barycentric phenomena are presented and explained on dynamical bases. A comparison with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory DE431 ephemeris, whose main differences arise from the modelling of trans-Neptunian bodies, shows significant discrepancies in several parameters (i.e., not only limited to angular elements) related to the solar barycentric dynamics. In addition, we identify the main periodicities of the Sun’s barycentric movement and the main giant planets perturbations related to them.
Type Ia supernova Hubble diagram with near-infrared and optical observations
Authors: Stanishev V. , Goobar A. , Amanullah R. , Bassett B. , Fantaye Y. T. , Garnavich P. , Hlozek R. , Nordin J. , Okouma P. M. , Östman L. , Sako M. , Scalzo R. , Smith M.
Published: May 2018

Context.Type Ia Supernovae (SNe Ia) have been used as standardizable candles in the optical wavelengths to measure distances with an accuracy of ~7% out to redshiftz~ 1.5. There is evidence that in the near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths SNe Ia are even better standard candles, however, NIR observations are much more time-consuming.

Aims.We aim to test whether the NIR peak magnitudes could be accurately estimated with only a single observation obtained close to maximum light, provided that the time ofBband maximum, theB−Vcolor at maximum and the optical stretch parameter are known.

Methods.We present multi-epochUBV RIand single-epochJandHphotometric observations of 16 SNe Ia in the redshift rangez= 0.037 − 0.183, doubling the leverage of the current SN Ia NIR Hubble diagram and the number of SNe beyond redshift 0.04. This sample was analyzed together with 102 NIR and 458 optical light curves (LCs) of normal SNe Ia from the literature.

Results.The analysis of 45 NIR LCs with well-sampled first maximum shows that a single template accurately describes the LCs if its time axis is stretched with the optical stretch parameter. This allows us to estimate the peak NIR magnitudes of SNe with only few observations obtained within ten days fromB-band maximum. The NIR Hubble residuals show weak correlation with ΔM15and the color excessE(B−V), and for the first time we report a potential dependence on theJmax−Hmaxcolor. With these corrections, the intrinsic NIR luminosity scatter of SNe Ia is estimated to be ~0.10 mag, which is smaller than what can be derived for a similarly heterogeneous sample at optical wavelengths. Analysis of both NIR and optical data shows that the dust extinction in the host galaxies corresponds to a lowRV≃ 1.8–1.9.

Conclusions.We conclude that SNe Ia are at least as good standard candles in the NIR as in the optical and are potentially less affected by systematic uncertainties. We extended the NIR SN Ia Hubble diagram to its nonlinear part atz~ 0.2 and confirmed that it is feasible to accomplish this result with very modest sampling of the NIR LCs, if complemented by well-sampled optical LCs. With future facilities it will be possible to extend the NIR Hubble diagram beyond redshiftz≃ 1, and our results suggest that the most efficient way to achieve this would be to obtain a single observation close to the NIR maximum.
Calibration of reduced-order model for a coupled Burgers equations based on PC-EnKF
Authors: Wang Yuepeng , Cheng Yue , Zhang Zongyuan , Lin Guang
Published: May 2018

The proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) and the discrete empirical interpolation method (DEIM) are applied to coupled Burgers equations to develop its reduced-order model (ROM) by the Galerkin projection. A calibrated POD ROM is developed in the current study through adding and multiplying a set of time-dependent random parameters to recover the loss of accuracy due to the truncation of the POD modes. Calibrating the ROM becomes essentially a high-dimensional statistical inverse inference problem. To reduce the computational effort, the polynomial chaos based ensemble Kalman filter (PC-EnKF) is adopted in this work. By using a sparse optimization algorithm, a sparse PC expansion is obtained to facilitate further calculation of statistical moments used in ensemble Kalman filter. We apply the well-defined calibrated POD ROM for the coupled Burgers equations with the Reynolds numberRe= 10 000. The numerical results show that the PC-EnKF method is efficient in reducing the uncertainty included in the initial guess of input parameters and feasible in correcting the behavior of the POD ROM. The study suggests that the PC-EnKF is quite general as a calibration tool for calibrating the POD ROM.
Thymectomy in Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Rückert Jens , Swierzy Marc , Kohler Siegfried , Meisel Andreas , Ismail Mahmoud
Published: May 2018

In recent years much progress has been made in the investigation of the pathophysiology, characterizing subgroups, and extension of multimodal treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG). This applies especially to the role of thymectomy (Thx). Thymectomy is always indicated for thymoma-associated myasthenia gravis. Furthermore, based on large cohort studies, during recent decades thymectomy has also become a central part of immune-modulating MG therapy in patients without thymoma. The lack of randomized studies, however, caused a certain persistent reluctance as to the significance of thymectomy. The current MGTX trial has shown the effectiveness of thymectomy. A significant improvement of myasthenic complaints and the reduction of immunosuppressive medication was primarily shown for acquired early-onset MG (EOMG) with complete resection of all thymic tissue. Because the MGTX study only included patients younger than 65 years with generalized MG and positive for acetylcholine-receptor antibodies, at present the significance of Thx for other relevant subgroups as juvenile MG, MG in older patients, ocular MG, as well as seronegative patients is under investigation. Even the prevailing opinion of no benefit of thymectomy for MuSk-positive patients probably needs reevaluation based on ambiguous findings. With respect to surgery, based on the exclusive performance of extended median sternotomy for MG in the MGTX, the value of thoracoscopic modifications for thymectomy as a minimally-invasive alternative is currently under evaluation. For clinical reasons further judgment regarding different minimally-invasive thymectomy techniques compared to the conventional open procedures in the form of randomized comparative studies would be required. Currently, however, an experience-based robotic-assisted thoracoscopic unilateral approach to thymectomy meets all requirements related to surgical, clinical-neurological and patient aspects. Ethical reasons, therefore, will lead to other strategies for comparison of different surgical techniques.
Substanzbezogene Störungen und traumatische Erfahrungen in der Kindheit
Authors: Wieland Nuri , Klein Michael
Published: May 2018

Anhand zahlreicher epidemiologischer und klinischer Untersuchungen lässt sich zeigen, dass substanzbezogene Störungen und familiäre Gewalt und Vernachlässigung weit verbreitet sind und in einem systematischen Zusammenhang stehen. Problematischer Substanzkonsum bzw. die Entwicklung von Alkohol- und Drogenabhängigkeit können sowohl als Ursache als auch Folge von traumatischen Erfahrungen in der Kindheit gelten. Der vorliegende Artikel gibt einen Überblick über den aktuellen Forschungsstand, zeigt mögliche Erklärungsansätze und neue integrative Therapiekonzepte auf und beleuchtet die Suchterkrankung als einen der wichtigsten Risikofaktoren für elterliche Gewaltausübung und Vernachlässigung gegenüber ihren Kindern.
Relationship Between the Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Level and Prognosis of Diabetic Nephropathy with Microalbuminuria: A 7-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Seki Naoto , Matsumoto Tsuyoshi , Fukazawa Motoharu
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between the brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level and prognosis of diabetic nephropathy. The subjects were 100 Japanese outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with microalbuminuria. Associations between metabolic parameters at baseline, including BNP, and prognosis of diabetic nephropathy (progression of diabetic nephropathy, cardiovascular events, and death) were examined for 7 years. In Cox proportional hazard analysis, HbA1c, albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR) and BNP were identified as significant factors for progression of diabetic nephropathy (p=0.033, p=0.037, and p=0.044, respectively), BNP was identified as significant factor for cardiovascular events (p=0.046), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and BNP were identified as significant factors for death (p=0.046 and p=0.048, respectively). In Kaplan–Meier analysis, risks of progression of diabetic nephropathy, cardiovascular events, and death were significantly different between patients with a low and a high BNP level (p=0.046, p=0.002, and p=0.025, respectively). ROC curve analysis gave cutoff values for BNP of 14.9 pg/ml for progression of diabetic nephropathy, 16.3 pg/ml for cardiovascular events, and 17.6 pg/ml for death (p=0.047, p=0.035, p=0.018, respectively). In conclusion, the BNP level is associated with prognosis in diabetic nephropathy.
Anxiety-Related Bleeding and Thrombosis
Authors: Hoirisch-Clapauch Silvia
Published: May 2018

Anxiety, a normal response to stressful situations, is characterized by increased levels of factor VIII, fibrinogen, and von Willebrand factor, and by enhanced platelet aggregability. One would expect acute anxiety to be a prothrombotic state, but since acute mental stress induces tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) release from endothelial and chromaffin cells, fibrinolysis counteracts procoagulant stimuli. It could be said that procoagulant changes accompanying the fight-or-flight response reduce the risk of bleeding in case of potential injuries, while activation of fibrinolysis counteracts activation of hemostasis to prevent intravascular thrombus formation before injuries occur. Acutely anxious patients are prone to bleeding or thrombosis when the balance between hypercoagulation and hyperfibrinolysis is disturbed. Acute anxiety not only increases the risk of bleeding in hemophilia or von Willebrand disease, but many reports have shown that anxiolytic interventions such as hypnosis are effective in controlling bleeding in hemostatic disorders. The pathogenesis of cardiovascular and thrombotic diseases in highly anxious patients is multifactorial. An important element is α-adrenergic vasoconstriction, which increases viscosity due to leakage of intravascular fluid into the interstitium, and also causes hypertension, favoring plaque rupture. Paradoxical as it may seem, over secretion of tPA may increase cardiovascular risk. This is because tPA degrades the extracellular matrix, causing vascular stiffness that increases cardiac workload, and thus oxygen requirements. Anxious patients with conditions associated with increased plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 levels, such as depression or postprandial hyperinsulinemia, are at high risk of thrombosis. Postprandial hyperinsulinemia may result from consumption of high-carbohydrate foods, considered anxiolytic, combined with a sedentary life, which is common among anxious individuals. Preliminary evidence suggests that high anxiety combined with either depression or a lifestyle that results in hyperinsulinemia has an important role in the pathogenesis of thrombotic events currently classified as unprovoked.
Postburn Neck Contracture: Principles of Reconstruction and a Treatment Algorithm
Authors: Gao Yashan , Li Haizhou , Gu Bin , Xie Feng , Zhu Hainan , Wang Zhichao , Li Qingfeng , Zan Tao
Published: May 2018

Background Various techniques have been developed for postburn neck reconstruction, but a treatment algorithm is needed.

Methods We retrospectively reviewed all patients treated for postburn neck contracture at our institution between February 2008 and December 2015. Necks were divided into one anterior subunit and two lateral subunits marked by the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Deformities were categorized into three types according to their size and location. Type I deformities involve less than one subunit, type II deformities involve at least one subunit but less than two subunits, and type III deformities affect two or more subunits. Type II deformities were further divided into type IIa deformities, which mainly involve the anterior region, and type IIb deformities, which mainly involve the lateral region.

Results Local random pattern flaps were constructed for type I deformities. Pedicled flaps from the anterior chest and supraclavicular areas were preferred for type IIa deformities, and pedicled flaps from the back were preferred for type IIb deformities. Pedicled flaps from other areas were the second choice for type II deformities, followed by free and prefabricated flaps. For type III deformities, bipedicled flaps were usually required. At a follow-up of at least 12 months, all patients showed near-normal neck function, and aesthetic features were significantly improved.

Conclusion The proposed classification and treatment algorithm for postburn neck reconstruction may help achieve satisfactory outcomes.
Risk of Thrombosis in Patients Presenting with Myocardial Infarction with Nonobstructive Coronary Arteries (MINOCA)
Authors: Pasupathy Sivabaskari , Rodgers Susan , Tavella Rosanna , McRae Simon , Beltrame John
Published: May 2018

Patients presenting with myocardial infarction (MI) in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) is termed MI with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA). The underlying pathophysiology of MINOCA is multifactorial and in situ formation and subsequent spontaneous lysis of a coronary thrombus is often hypothesized as one of the mechanisms. The objective of this study is to determine whether MINOCA patients had a greater prothrombotic tendency in comparison to MI patients with obstructive CAD (MICAD). Prospectively, blood samples of 25 consecutive MINOCA patients (58 (interquartile range [IQR]: 48, 75) years, 48% women) and 25 age-/gender-matched MICAD patients (58 (IQR: 50, 66) years, 48% women) were obtained at 1 month after the initial presentation and overall thrombin generation potential and congenital/acquired thrombophilia states were assessed. As regard to results, overall thrombin generation parameters were similar (p > 0.05) between the MINOCA and MICAD groups, highlighting similar endogenous thrombin potential (1,590 nM/min; IQR: 1,380, 2,000 vs. 1,750 nM/min; IQR: 1,500, 2,040, respectively). There were no significant differences between MINOCA and MICAD, respectively, in respect to the numbers of patients with congenital thrombophilia states including factor V Leiden (0 vs. 4%) and prothrombin gene mutation (8 vs. 4%), decreased antithrombin (8 vs. 0%), protein C (0 vs. 0%), and protein S (4 vs. 0%). None of the patients demonstrated presence of lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibodies. Although MINOCA patients revealed thrombotic characteristics that are similar to those with MICAD, the results from this study are inconclusive and a larger study with healthy control subjects is required to assess the risk of thrombosis in MINOCA.