bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Truncated T parasite staircase fractal U‐slot antenna for multiple advance internet of things applications
Authors: Goswami Pankaj K. , Goswami Garima
Published: October 2019

The internet of things (IoT) connects billions of smart heterogeneous modules in long‐term evolution (LTE) and LTE‐advance. The rapid growth of IoT has attracted typical wireless sensors designs for machine‐to‐machine communication. More action is required to improve quality, bandwidth, interfacing compatibility and efficiencies of such smart systems. This article presents an antenna design evolution to enhance compatibility, impedance matching and high bandwidth fidelity to smart wireless IoT sensors. A compact 12 × 18 × 1.6 mm3 staircase‐fractal slot antenna with truncated “T” parasites, gives promising characteristics for IoT applications in UWB and GSM/GPS range. Antenna is modeled and simulated on high frequency structure simulator. The prototype is fabricated and experimented to validate practical feasibility of antenna for wireless sensor based applications. The antenna resonates on 2.4, 5, and 9.55 GHz, exhibits complete UWB (3.1‐10.5 GHz). Additionally, offers GPS/GSM compatibility for real time applications. Therefore, the proposed antenna has novel utility of compatibility enhancement among multiple wireless sensors interface embedded in advance IoT based application.
A noise correction of the γ‐index method for Monte Carlo dose distribution comparison
Authors: Cohilis Marie , Sterpin Edmond , Lee John A. , Souris Kevin
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Due to the increasing complexity of IMRT/IMPT treatments, quality assurance (QA) is essential to verify the quality of the dose distribution actually delivered. In this context, Monte Carlo (MC) simulations are more and more often used to verify the accuracy of the treatment planning system (TPS). The most common method of dose comparison is the γ‐test, which combines dose difference and distance‐to‐agreement (DTA) criteria. However, this method is known to be dependent on the noise level in dose distributions. We propose here a method to correct the bias of the γ passing rate (GPR) induced by MC noise.

Methods

The GPR amplitude was studied as a function of the MC noise level. A model of this noise effect was mathematically derived. This model was then used to predict the time‐consuming low‐noise GPR by fitting multiple fast MC dose calculations. MC dose maps with a noise level between 2% and 20% were computed, and the GPR was predicted at a noise level of 0.3%. Due to the asymmetry of the γ‐test, two different cases were considered: the MC dose was first set as reference dose, then as evaluated dose in the γ‐test. Our method was applied on six proton therapy plans including analytical doses from the TPS or patient‐specific QA measurements.

Results

An average absolute error of 4.31% was observed on the GPR computed for MC doses with 2% statistical noise. Our method was able to improve the accuracy of the gamma passing rate by up to 13%. The method was found especially efficient to correct the noise bias when the DTA criterion is low.

Conclusions

We propose a method to enhance the γ‐evaluation of a treatment plan when there is noise in one of the compared distributions. The method allows, in a tractable time, to detect the cases for which a correction is necessary and can improve the accuracy of the resulting passing rates.
NMR spectral analysis of strongly second‐order 6‐, 8‐, 9‐ and 10‐ spin‐systems (1H─19F, 19F─19F, and 13C─19F) in perfluorotoluyl‐ and tetrafluoro‐pyridyl‐aromatics using the lineshape method ANATOLIA
Authors: Edgar Mark , Hayward Dee , Zeinali Fatemeh , Riaz Shahzad , Weaver George W.
Published: October 2019

A simple to use nuclear magnetic resonance analysis method has been tested on complex 1H, 19F, and 13C multiplets. This open‐source line‐shape analysis method analysis of total lineshape (ANATOLIA)1 provides some significant advantages over traditional assign‐iterate methods of NMR spectral analysis by avoiding false minima and progressing optimisation to the global minimum. The target molecules are 1‐perfluorotol‐4‐yl‐2‐perfluorotol‐4‐yl‐oxymethyl‐1H‐benzimidazole (molecule‐I) and 1‐tetrafluoropyrid‐4‐yl‐2‐tetrafluoropyrid‐4‐yl‐thio‐1H‐benzimidazole (molecule‐II) which were produced as part of a family of fluorinated drug scaffolds prepared for anticancer and antiparasitic screening. Spectra display significant second‐order effects with 1H Δδ = 3.68 and 4.67 Hz for the aromatic hydrogen “triplets”, with 19F 4JAA', 4JBB', 4JXX', and 4JYY' coupling constants range from +4.8 to −14.0 Hz and for 13C‐isotopomers 19F Δδ of up to 111.56 Hz. A spin‐system of six coupling nuclei (HaHbHcHd FYFY') was analysed in 12 s, a spin‐system of nine coupling fluorine nuclei (AA'BB'CCC‐YY') was analysed within 2 min, and 10 coupling nuclei (XX'YY'ZZZ‐BB'‐Hd) was optimised in 6 min using a laptop computer. ANATOLIA was also robust enough to be able to yield accurate spectral values from inaccurate input values. In both compounds, a fluorine–fluorine coupling constant was identified between the two fluoro‐aromatic rings (FBB' and FYY') of +4.05 and +4.67 Hz and attributed to a through‐space interaction. Ab initio structure optimisations and coupling constant calculations provided useful input data for spectral analysis. A modern 19F nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum of perfluorotoluene (octafluorotoluene) and analysis from 1975 was used as a test data set to assess ANATOLIA.
Prediction model of postnatal renal function in fetuses with lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO)—Development and internal validation
Authors: Duin Leonie K. , Fontanella Federica , Groen Henk , Adama van Scheltema Phebe N. , Cohen‐Overbeek Titia E. , Pajkrt Eva , Bekker Mireille , Willekes Christine , Bax Caroline J. , Oepkes Dick , Bilardo Caterina M.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To develop a prediction model of postnatal renal function in fetuses with lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) based on fetal ultrasound parameters and amniotic fluid volume.

Methods

Retrospective nationwide cohort study of fetuses with postnatally confirmed LUTO and known eGFR. Fetuses treated with fetal interventions such as vesico‐amniotic shunting or cystoscopy were excluded. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify prognostic ultrasound variables with respect to renal outcome following multiple imputation of missing data. On the basis of these fetal renal parameters and amniotic fluid volume, a model was developed to predict postnatal renal function in fetuses with LUTO. The main study outcome was an eGFR less than 60 mL/min * 1.73 m2 based on the creatinine nadir during the first year following diagnosis. Model performance was evaluated by receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, calibration plots, and bootstrapping.

Results

Hundred one fetuses with a confirmed diagnosis of LUTO were included, eGFR less than 60 was observed in 40 (39.6%) of them. Variables predicting an eGFR less than 60 mL/min * 1.73m2 included the following sonographic parameters: hyperechogenicity of the renal cortex and abnormal amniotic fluid volume. The model showed fair discrimination, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.70 (95% confidence interval, 0.59‐0.81, 0.66 after bootstrapping) and was overall well‐calibrated.

Conclusion

This study shows that a prediction model incorporating ultrasound parameters such as cortical appearance and abnormal amniotic fluid volume can fairly discriminate an eGFR above or below 60 mL/min * 1.73m2. This clinical information can be used in identifying fetuses eligible for prenatal interventions and improve counseling of parents.
Impact of early diagnosis and noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT): Knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of parents of children with sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs)
Authors: Samango‐Sprouse Carole A. , Porter Grace F. , Lasutschinkow Patricia C. , Tran Selena L. , Sadeghin Teresa , Gropman Andrea L.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To investigate the attitudes of parents of children with a sex chromosome aneuploidy (SCA) regarding the impact of an early diagnosis and noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT).

Method

A survey consisting of multiple choice and long response formatted questions was completed by parents of children with SCA(s).

Results

Fifty‐five participants responded to the survey. A total of 88.1% of participants who received an early diagnosis expressed that it had a positive impact on their child's life. Of the 23 participants who utilized NIPT, 95.7% believed it was a decisive factor in their life because they could research the disorders prior to the birth of their child (35.3%), pinpoint valuable resources and interventions (38.2%), and determine possible risk factors of neurodevelopmental delays to be considered after delivery (20.6%).

Conclusion

This study documented parental perspectives on the impact of an early SCA diagnosis and attitudes towards NIPT use for identifying those at risk for SCAs. These informative and insightful results provide personal experiences that health care providers may want to consider when providing prenatal counseling on NIPT for expectant mothers. As this analysis is the first of its kind, ascertainment is limited, and future research should aim to expand these findings by investigating the different factors influencing attitudes towards NIPT.
Natal origin of the invasive biosecurity pest, brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys: Penatomidae), determined by dual‐element stable isotope‐ratio mass spectrometry
Authors: Holder Peter W , Van Hale Robert J , Frew Russell , George Sherly , Armstrong Karen F
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Post‐border detection of a single brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) in New Zealand warranted a biosecurity response, the nature of which would be influenced by its status as part of an established population or as a new arrival. Stable isotope analysis has the potential to determine natal origins, but is difficult to achieve for samples as small as a single insect. Here an analytical modification to measure small samples was successfully trialled as a means to supply evidence as to the local or exotic natal origin of the intercepted BMSB specimen.

RESULTS

Sufficient analytical sensitivity was achieved using a modified isotope ratio mass spectrometry method, involving thermolysis and carbon monoxide cryofocusing, to enable the simultaneous analysis of δ2H and δ18O from wings of the post‐border BMSB sample. The values were much lower than those of the New Zealand green vegetable bug, used as a local reference. However, they fell within the range of those for BMSB of Northern Hemisphere origin intercepted at the New Zealand border over the same time period, specifically overlapping with the USA and Italy, but not China.

CONCLUSION

The isotope signature of the post‐border detected BMSB suggested a significantly cooler climate than the North Island of New Zealand, indicating that it was a new arrival and did not represent an established population. © 2019 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Disturbance‐prediction–based control of input time delay systems for rejection of unknown frequency disturbances
Authors: Wen Xinyu , Yan Peng
Published: October 2019

In this paper, a novel disturbance rejection approach is presented for a class of input time‐delay systems subject to sinusoidal disturbances with unknown frequency. In particular, an auxiliary observer is proposed to represent the periodic disturbance in a parametric uncertainty form, where the unknown factor related to disturbance frequency can be estimated. Furthermore, the correlation between the future disturbance and the auxiliary observer output is analyzed, such that the future disturbances can be predicted and rejected through the input channel. Based on the aforementioned observer and predictor structure, the overall control architecture can be established as a framework of disturbance‐prediction–based control for systems with input time delays, where the conditions on the asymptotic stability of the closed‐loop systems are also derived. Finally, numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control approach.
Programmable DNA Nanoindicator‐Based Platform for Large‐Scale Square Root Logic Biocomputing
Authors: Zhou Chunyang , Geng Hongmei , Wang Pengfei , Guo Chunlei
Published: October 2019

The prospect of programming molecular computing systems to realize complex autonomous tasks has advanced the design of synthetic biochemical logic circuits. One way to implement digital and analog integrated circuits is to use noncovalent hybridization and strand displacement reactions in cell‐free and enzyme‐free nucleic acid systems. To date, DNA‐based circuits involving tens of logic gates capable of implementing basic and complex logic functions have been demonstrated experimentally. However, most of these circuits are still incapable of realizing complex mathematical operations, such as square root logic operations, which can only be carried out with 4 bit binary numbers. A high‐capacity DNA biocomputing system is demonstrated through the development of a 10 bit square root logic circuit. It can calculate the square root of a 10 bit binary number (within the decimal integer 900) by designing DNA sequences and programming DNA strand displacement reactions. The input signals are optimized through the output feedback to improve performance in more complex logical operations. This study provides a more universal approach for applications in biotechnology and bioengineering.
Introduction
Authors: Dunlop Malcolm Wray , Lühr Hermann
Published: October 2019

Two volumes, ISSI Scientific Reports, SR-001: Analysis Methods for Multi-Spacecraft Data and SR-008: Multi-Spacecraft Analysis Methods revisited, were published to document the growing toolset using the multi-spacecraft dataset being collected by Cluster.
Acute exposure to nocturnal train noise induces endothelial dysfunction and pro-thromboinflammatory changes of the plasma proteome in healthy subjects
Authors: Herzog Johannes , Schmidt Frank P. , Hahad Omar , Mahmoudpour Seyed Hamidreza , Mangold Alina K. , Garcia Andreo Pascal , Prochaska Jürgen , Koeck Thomas , Wild Philipp S. , Sørensen Mette , Daiber Andreas , Münzel Thomas
Published: October 2019

Nocturnal train noise exposure has been associated with hypertension and myocardial infarction. It remains unclear whether acute nighttime train exposure may induce subclinical atherosclerosis, such as endothelial dysfunction and other functional and/or biochemical changes. Thus, we aimed to expose healthy subjects to nocturnal train noise and to assess endothelial function, changes in plasma protein levels and clinical parameters. In a randomized crossover study, we exposed 70 healthy volunteers to either background or two different simulated train noise scenarios in their homes during three nights. After each night, participants visited the study center for measurement of vascular function and assessment of other biomedical and biochemical parameters. The three nighttime noise scenarios were exposure to either background noise (control), 30 or 60 train noise events (Noise30 or Noise60), with average sound pressure levels of 33, 52 and 54 dB(A), respectively. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery was 11.23 ± 4.68% for control, compared to 8.71 ± 3.83% for Noise30 and 8.47 ± 3.73% for Noise60 (p < 0.001 vs. control). Sleep quality was impaired after both Noise30 and Noise60 nights (p < 0.001 vs. control). Targeted proteomic analysis showed substantial changes of plasma proteins after the Noise60 night, mainly centered on redox, pro-thrombotic and proinflammatory pathways. Exposure to simulated nocturnal train noise impaired endothelial function. The proteomic changes point toward a proinflammatory and pro-thrombotic phenotype in response to nocturnal train noise and provide a molecular basis to explain the increased cardiovascular risk observed in epidemiological noise studies.
Tunable viscosity modification with diluted particles: when particles decrease the viscosity of complex fluids
Authors: Gvaramia Manuchar , Mangiapia Gaetano , Pipich Vitaliy , Appavou Marie-Sousai , Jaksch Sebastian , Holderer Olaf , Rukhadze Marina D. , Frielinghaus Henrich
Published: October 2019

While spherical particles are the most studied viscosity modifiers, they are well known only to increase viscosities, in particular at low concentrations of approx. 1%. Extended studies and theories on non-spherical particles in simple fluids find a more complicated behavior, but still a steady increase with increasing concentration. Involving platelets in combination with complex fluids—in our case, a bicontinuous microemulsion—displays an even more complex scenario that we analyze experimentally and theoretically as a function of platelet diameter using small angle neutron scattering, rheology, and the theory of the lubrication effect, to find the underlying concepts. The clay particles effectively form membranes in the medium that itself may have lamellar aligned domains and surfactant films in the case of the microemulsion. The two-stage structure of clay and surfactant membranes explains the findings using the theory of the lubrication effect. This confirms that layered domain structures serve for lowest viscosities. Starting from these findings and transferring the condition for low viscosities to other complex fluids, namely crude oils, even lowered viscosities with respect to the pure crude oil were observed. This strengthens our belief that also here layered domains are formed as well. This apparent contradiction of a viscosity reduction by solid particles could lead to a wider range of applications where low viscosities are desired. The same concepts of two-stage layered structures also explain the observed conditions for extremely enhanced viscosities at particle concentrations of 1% that may be interesting for the food industry.
Childhood Behavioural Problems and Adverse Outcomes in Early Adulthood: a Comparison of Brazilian and British Birth Cohorts
Authors: Hammerton Gemma , Murray Joseph , Maughan Barbara , Barros Fernando C. , Gonçalves Helen , Menezes Ana Maria B. , Wehrmeister Fernando C. , Hickman Matthew , Heron Jon
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Examine associations between childhood behavioural problems with criminal behaviour, emotional disorders, substance use and unemployment in early adulthood in two birth cohorts from a middle- and high-income country.

Methods

Data were utilised from large, prospective birth cohorts in Brazil (1993 Pelotas Birth Cohort;N = 3939) and the UK (Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children; ALSPAC;N = 5079). Behavioural problems were reported on by parents at age 11 years (including disobeys, temper, lies, fights, steals). Outcomes (assessed with youth between ages 22 and 24 years) included criminal behaviour, emotional disorders, substance use and NEET (not in education, employment or training).

Results

In both cohorts, children with ‘conduct problems’ (those with increased probability of all five behaviours at age 11), were at higher risk of criminal behaviour, emotional disorders and NEET in adulthood compared to those with ‘low problems’. Associations for ‘conduct problems’ were stronger in Pelotas compared to ALSPAC for hazardous alcohol use [Pelotas: risk ratio = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.14–1.70; ALSPAC: risk ratio = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.57–1.02] and illegal drug use [Pelotas: risk ratio = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.16–1.50; ALSPAC: risk ratio = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.91–1.20], whereas associations for criminal behaviour [Pelotas: risk ratio = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.29–2.86; ALSPAC: risk ratio = 2.75, 95% CI = 2.04–3.73] and NEET [Pelotas: risk ratio = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.13–1.70; ALSPAC: risk ratio = 3.04, 95% CI = 1.99–4.65] were stronger in ALSPAC.

Conclusions

Childhood conduct problems were associated with criminal behaviour, emotional disorders and unemployment in adulthood in both Brazil and the UK. Additional associations were found for substance use in Brazil.
Evaluating the effect of gentamicin-clindamycin lavage on post-operational pain and infection through laparoscopic colectomy surgery
Authors: Negahi Alireza , Arminfar Amirhossein , Vaseghi Hamed , Moradi Mohammad , Alemrajabi Mahdi
Published: October 2019

Introduction Peritoneal antibiotic or normal saline lavage is seen to be beneficial in order to reduce the pain or infection risk through laparoscopic surgeries. It can also be applied for laparoscopic colectomy surgeries. In this study, we have compared the effects of antibiotic solution lavage (gentamycin-clindamycin) with normal saline lavage in patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy surgery.

Method In this double-blind Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), 40 patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy surgery were divided into antibiotic and normal saline lavage groups (20 patients in each group). Post-operational pain, need for painkiller, white blood cells count, C-reactive protein level, duration of hospitalization and wound infection were compared in 30 days between the groups.

Results Antibiotic lavage group had significantly less pain than the normal saline group (p
< 0.05) through 3, 6, 12 and 24
h after surgery. C-reactive protein level, white blood cells count, painkiller use, and hospitalization duration were significantly lower in antibiotic group. However, there was no difference regarding wound or intra-abdominal infection between the both groups.

Conclusion Using gentamicin-clindamycin peritonea lavage helps patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy surgery in pain reduction, need for painkillers and hospitalization duration.
Sources for Altitude Illness Information for Trekkers in the Himalayas
Authors: Strickland Brian M. , Kanaan Nicholas C.
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Educational materials are important tools in the prevention of altitude illness among individuals traveling to high altitude destinations. Travelers obtain information about altitude illness from many different educational resources. Our objective was to determine which educational resources for altitude illness prevention were used by trekkers on the Everest Base Camp trek and Annapurna Circuit. We also sought to compare which resources were used by individuals from different geographic areas.

Methods

A survey was administered to trekkers attending an altitude illness information lecture at the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic. Trekkers provided their basic demographic information and educational resources they used while preparing for the trek. Comparisons were made between trekkers based on the resources they used, as well as their age and country of origin.

Results

Of 1075 surveys administered, 906 were completed. Internet sources were most commonly used by trekkers (49%), followed by friends or family (22%), and healthcare providers (18%). The age of participants using Internet sources was 36 ± 12 y (mean ± SD), lower than those who did not use Internet sources (39 ± 14 y, P < 0.01). Participants came from 8 geographic areas; Europe (55%), North America (24%), and Oceania (11%) made up the vast majority. Compared to the overall cohort, participants from Oceania demonstrated more Internet reliance at 65% (χ2(1, n = 102)=9.7, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

In this group of trekkers in the Himalayas, the Internet was the most common source of information on altitude illness prevention and management. Trekkers using Internet sources were slightly younger than non-Internet users.
Recency and intensification of positive symptoms enhance prediction of conversion to syndromal psychosis in clinical high-risk patients
Authors: Brucato Gary , First Michael B. , Dishy Gabriella A. , Samuel Shana S. , Xu Qing , Wall Melanie M. , Small Scott A. , Masucci Michael D. , Lieberman Jeffrey A. , Girgis Ragy R.
Published: October 2019

Background

Early detection and intervention strategies in patients at clinical high-risk (CHR) for syndromal psychosis have the potential to contain the morbidity of schizophrenia and similar conditions. However, research criteria that have relied on severity and number of positive symptoms are limited in their specificity and risk high false-positive rates. Our objective was to examine the degree to which measures of recency of onset or intensification of positive symptoms [a.k.a., new or worsening (NOW) symptoms] contribute to predictive capacity.

Methods

We recruited 109 help-seeking individuals whose symptoms met criteria for the Progression Subtype of the Attenuated Positive Symptom Psychosis-Risk Syndrome defined by the Structured Interview for Psychosis-Risk Syndromes and followed every three months for two years or onset of syndromal psychosis.

Results

Forty-one (40.6%) of 101 participants meeting CHR criteria developed a syndromal psychotic disorder [mostly (80.5%) schizophrenia] with half converting within 142 days (interquartile range: 69–410 days). Patients with more NOW symptoms were more likely to convert (converters: 3.63 ± 0.89; non-converters: 2.90 ± 1.27; p = 0.001). Patients with stable attenuated positive symptoms were less likely to convert than those with NOW symptoms. New, but not worsening, symptoms, in isolation, also predicted conversion.

Conclusions

Results suggest that the severity and number of attenuated positive symptoms are less predictive of conversion to syndromal psychosis than the timing of their emergence and intensification. These findings also suggest that the earliest phase of psychotic illness involves a rapid, dynamic process, beginning before the syndromal first episode, with potentially substantial implications for CHR research and understanding the neurobiology of psychosis.
Quotas as Opportunities and Obstacles: Revisiting Gender Quotas in India
Authors: Turnbull Brian
Published: October 2019

This article addresses the empirical uncertainty regarding whether gender quotas establish a foundation of political representation and experience that encourages female candidates to compete against men. It updates and expands existing empirical research by contributing an analysis of the most recent electoral data across four municipal corporations in India over two election cycles. Critical questions on the theoretical expectation that gender quotas should encourage and enable women politicians to compete in open-gender contests over time are considered. The Indian quota system has not encouraged women to broadly compete outside the quota at the local level but has made some wards more likely to elect women. Parties also continue to resist nominating women outside the quota but are more likely to do so in wards previously represented by a woman. Finally, the unique overlap of gender and community quotas can discourage incumbency by essentially blocking incumbents from running again in their ward due to shifting community requirements.
Junglerice (Echinochloa colona) and feather fingergrass (Chloris virgata) seed production and retention at sorghum maturity
Authors: Mahajan Gulshan , Walsh Michael , Chauhan Bhagirath S.
Published: October 2019

In Australia, junglerice and feather fingergrass are problematic weeds in sorghum. The high seed production potential of these weeds increases their seedbank in the soil and makes weed control practices more difficult and expensive, particularly when weeds have evolved resistance to herbicides. A study was conducted to evaluate the seed production and seed retention behavior of junglerice and feather fingergrass at sorghum crop maturity following four transplanting times: 0, 2, 4, and 6 wk after sorghum emergence. Averaged across years, junglerice and feather fingergrass produced 4,060 and 5,740 seeds plant-1, respectively,when they were transplanted with the emergence of a sorghum crop. Seed retention ranged from 42% to 56% for junglerice and 67% to 75% for feather fingergrass when these weeds were transplanted from 0 to 4 wk after crop emergence. A positive correlation (r = 0.75 for junglerice; r = 0.44 for feather fingergrass) was found between seed production and weed biomass in both weeds, indicating that larger plants produced more seeds than smaller plants. However, no correlation was found between weed biomass and seed retention for junglerice. A weak positive correlation (r = 0.44) was found between feather fingergrass biomass and percent seed retention, indicating that seed retention was greater in larger plants compared with smaller plants. Our results suggest that feather fingergrass is a good candidate for harvest weed seed control (HWSC) tactics if crop harvest is timely. There is limited opportunity to use HWSC tactics for targeting junglerice seeds in sorghum crops, because most seeds dispersed before crop maturity. Additional research is required to evaluate seed retention levels of these weeds in other summer crops such as corn and soybean to determine the potential for HWSC for management of these species.
Evaluating effects of iron on manganese toxicity in soybean and sunflower using synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy and X-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Blamey F. Pax C. , Li Cui , Howard Daryl L. , Cheng Miaomiao , Tang Caixian , Scheckel Kirk G. , Noerpel Matt R. , Wang Peng , Menzies Neal W. , Kopittke Peter M.
Published: October 2019

Increased Fe in solution decreased Mn accumulation on soybean unifoliate leaves and in trichomes of sunflower lower alternate leaves.
Decoding the metallic bridging dynamics in nanogap atomic switches
Authors: Ji Xinglong , Pang Khin Yin , Zhao Rong
Published: October 2019

This work mathematically described the growth/shrinkage dynamics of nanoscale metallic filaments in gap type atomic switch, providing a direction for studying the switching behaviors in atomic switches from a quantitative view.
Buckled AgNW/MXene hybrid hierarchical sponges for high-performance electromagnetic interference shielding
Authors: Weng Chuanxin , Wang Guorui , Dai Zhaohe , Pei Yongmao , Liu Luqi , Zhang Zhong
Published: October 2019

The development of electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials is moving forward towards being lightweight and showing high-performance.
Precise modulation of molecular weight distribution for structural engineering
Authors: Tan Rui , Zhou Dongdong , Liu Baolei , Sun Yanxiao , Liu Xinxin , Ma Zhuang , Kong Deyu , He Jinlin , Zhang Zhengbiao , Dong Xue-Hui
Published: October 2019

Modulating MWD through precise blending of discrete macromolecules provides a model platform for highlighting the importance of chain length heterogeneity.
Effect of ropivacaine on peripheral neuropathy in streptozocin diabetes-induced rats through TRPV1-CGRP pathway
Authors: Zhang Nanwen , Wei Haixiang , Wu Weifang , Lin Peimin , Chen Yuan , Liu Zhiwei , Wang Honglin , Bian Yize , Yu Kai , Lin Shan , Cui Yanqi , Luo Renwei , Lin Jianming , Chen Xiaole
Published: October 2019

Objective To determine the effect of ropivacaine on peripheral neuropathy in diabetic rats and its possible mechanism.

Methods Forty-eight Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups: nondiabetic control group, nondiabetic group A (0.25% ropivacaine), nondiabetic group B (0.75% ropivacaine), diabetic control group (diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) +artificial cerebrospinal fluid), diabetic group A (DPN+0.25% ropivacaine), and diabetic group B (DPN + 0.75% ropivacaine), with eight rats in each group. Within an hour of the last administration, the sciatic motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) of each group was measured, and the morphological changes of rat sciatic nerve were observed by HE, Weil’s staining and electron microscopy. The expression of transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV1) in the spinal cord dorsal horn of rats was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, and the expression of Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) protein in the spinal cord was analyzed by Western blot.

Results Compared with the nondiabetic control group, elevated blood glucose, decreased weight and reduced average mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT), additionally, the sciatic nerves showed significantly slowed conduction velocity (both P<0.001) and damaged pathological structure, the expression of TRPV1 and CGRP were decreased (both P<0.001) in the diabetic groups. Compared with the diabetic control group, down-regulation of TRPV1 and CGRP in spinal cord was significant for the diabetic groups A and B treated with 0.25 and 0.75% ropivacaine, the higher concentration of ropivacaine correlated with a greater change.

Conclusion Ropivacaine can significantly block sciatic nerve conduction velocity in DPN rats in a concentration-dependent manner, which may be related to the expression of the TRPV1-CGRP pathway.
MiR-129-5p regulates cell proliferation and apoptosis via IGF-1R/Src/ERK/Egr-1 pathway in RA-fibroblast-like synoviocytes
Authors: Zhang Yan , Yan Ni , Wang Xiaoqing , Chang Yanhai , Wang Yu
Published: October 2019

It is reported that miR-129-5p plays an important role in various diseases, but its effect on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the potential mechanism remain to be clarified. In the present research, we aimed to investigate the effect of miR-129-5p on RA and the special molecular mechanism. First, the expression of miR-129-5p was analyzed in RA patients and RA Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLSs) by RT-PCR assay. The cell viability, apoptotic rate and the relative expression of caspase-3 and caspase-8 were measured by CCK-8, Annexin-FITC/propidium iodide (PI) and ELISA, respectively. Luciferase reporter assay was performed to investigate the target of miR-129-5p. The results revealed that the expression of miR-129-5p was down-regulated in RA patients and RA-FLSs. In addition, miR-129-5p inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis of RA-FLS. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) was the direct target of miR-129-5p, and IGF-1R promoted cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis by activating Src/ERK/Egr-1 signaling. Furthermoremore, the Src/ERK/Egr-1 signaling pathway was suppressed by miR-129-5p. Collectively, the results of the present study suggested that miR-129-5p regulated cell proliferation and apoptosis via IGF-1R/Src/ERK/Egr-1 signaling pathway in RA.
Scutellarin attenuates hypoxia/reoxygenation injury in hepatocytes by inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress through regulating Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling
Authors: Wu Haiyuan , Jia Lan
Published: October 2019

Scutellarin is a natural flavonoid that has been found to exhibit anti-ischemic effect. However, the effect of scutellarin on hepatic hypoxia/reoxygenation (ischemia–reperfusion (I/R)) injury remains unknown. The aim of the present study was to explore the protective effect of scutellarin on I/R-induced injury in hepatocytes. Our results showed that scutellarin improved cell viability in hepatocytes exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). Scutellarin treatment resulted in decreased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in H/R-induced hepatocytes. In addition, scutellarin reduced cell apoptosis in H/R-stimulated hepatocytes, as proved by the decreased apoptotic rate. Moreover, scutellarin significantly up-regulated bcl-2 expression and down-regulated bax expression in hepatocytes exposed to H/R. Furthermore, scutellarin treatment caused significant decrease in Keap1 expression and increase in nuclear Nrf2 expression. Besides, scutellarin induced the mRNA expressions of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1). Inhibition of Nrf2 significantly reversed the protective effects of scutellarin on H/R-stimulated hepatocytes. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that scutellarin protected hepatocytes from H/R-induced oxidative injury through regulating the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, indicating a potential relevance of scutellarin in attenuating hepatic I/R injury.
Association between polymorphisms in interleukin-18 promoter and risk of coronary artery disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Lian Zheng , Li Su-Fang , Cui Yu-Xia , Wu Man-Yan , Su Li-Na , Hu Dan , Xiong Wei-Jue , Chen Hong
Published: October 2019

Background: Previous studies have explored associations between interleukin-18 (IL-18) promoter polymorphisms and coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the results were controversial. We conducted a meta-analysis to clarify the association between the two polymorphisms and CAD risk. Methods: We searched English and Chinese databases and calculated the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) to estimate whether there are genetic associations between IL-18 promoter polymorphisms and the risk of CAD. All relevant studies were screened and meta-analyzed using STATA 15.0. Results: A total of 15 studies, including 12 studies for -137 G/C and 9 studies for -607 C/A, were identified for the meta-analysis. For -137 G/C, the results showed a significantly reduced risk of CAD in the dominant model (OR = 0.85) and heterozygous model (OR = 0.88) in the overall analysis. However, in subgroup analysis, decreased CAD risks were only observed in Asian populations for heterozygous genetic models. For -607 C/A, the overall OR revealed a reduced risk of CAD in all five genetic models (allelic, OR = 0.78; recessive, OR = 0.75; dominant, OR = 0.68; homozygous, OR = 0.61; heterozygous, OR = 0.72). In subgroup analysis, reduced CAD risk was also found in five genetic models of the Asian population. We also found that the IL-18 polymorphisms were correlated with myocardial infarction (MI) and multivessel (MV) disease. Conclusion: Our results suggested that the -137 polymorphism and -607 polymorphism in the IL-18 promoter were negatively associated with CAD, especially in the Asian population. In addition, some genetic models were correlated with the severity of CAD.
Speech-Language Pathology in Malaysia: Perspectives and Challenges
Authors: Chu Shin Ying , Khoong Elaine Shi Qing , Ismail Farah Najihah Mohamad , Altaher Abeer Muneer , Razak Rogayah A.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Malaysia, with its diverse culture and multilingual population, presents a unique and interesting setting for working as a speech-language pathologist (SLP). This article discusses the challenges that SLPs face when providing speech and language therapy in Malaysia and issues that need to be addressed for continued growth of this profession. While providing suggestions to SLPs on methods to overcome the challenges faced and improve their clinical practice, this article also calls upon international collaborations in overcoming these challenges.

Conclusions

Within the last few decades, the SLP profession in Malaysia has continued to grow and develop as it seeks to offer services on par with countries where the profession is more established. However, there is still much room for improvement as Malaysia continues to overcome current challenges.
Finding the Good in the Challenge: Benefit Finding Among Adults Who Stutter
Authors: Boyle Michael P. , Beita-Ell Carolina , Milewski Kathryn M.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether persons who stutter (PWS) reported benefits related to their stuttering and to describe the nature of those benefits.

Method

A mixed-methods approach was utilized. Qualitative content analysis was conducted with 5 different books, which included chapters written by PWS that focused on the experiences of stuttering and psychosocial aspects of the condition. In addition, 4 survey items measuring perceived benefits from stuttering were administered to 322 adults who stutter.

Results

Three major themes with 11 subthemes were identified in the qualitative analysis. PWS reported personal benefits from stuttering, including positive behavioral outcomes, cultivation of determination, feeling stronger, and emotional growth. Relationship benefits included social support access, deepening of relationships, and increased sensitivity to others. Changes in perspective included gained perspective about stuttering, gained perspective on life, a sense of appreciation, and finding positive meaning in challenges. Quantitative analysis revealed that over 90% of PWS agreed that stuttering has made them more understanding of other people, and over 80% agreed that it has made them stronger.

Conclusion

It is concluded that benefit finding among PWS should continue to be investigated in order to obtain a more complete understanding of the psychosocial aspects of stuttering and potentially to enhance therapeutic and support services for PWS.
Parameter identification based on prescribed estimation error performance for extended Wiener–Hammerstein systems
Authors: Li Linwei , Ren Xuemei
Published: October 2019

Most identification algorithms do not consider the prescribed error bound on the parameter estimation error information, which may result in the poor transient performance of parameter estimation during the identification process. In this study, a novel identification scheme is presented for the extended Wiener–Hammerstein systems with backlash non‐linearity, which is implemented by using prescribed performance function and error transformation technique. To improve the transient performance of parameter estimation, the prescribed performance function is designed to prescribe estimation error bound. Then, the error transformation technique is applied to transform the prescribed estimation error problem into an equivalent generalised error problem, which can simplify the design of identification algorithm. By developing the parameter updating law, the convergence of generalised error problem can be guaranteed, and the parameter estimation of considered system can be achieved. The numerical example and experiment results validate that the proposed scheme can provide more accurate parameter estimation and better transient performance than the available identification approaches.
Boundary control and exponential stability of a flexible Timoshenko beam manipulator with measurement delays
Authors: Han Fengming , Jia Yingmin
Published: October 2019

This study mainly focuses on the boundary control problem for a novel flexible Timoshenko beam manipulator system with measurement delay terms. The actuator structure of the manipulator consisted of a translational slider and a rotational motor, which are able to provide two inputs to influence different variables in boundary conditions of the Timoshenko partial differential equations. A static feedback boundary controller is proposed to realise exponential stability of the closed‐loop system based on ‐semigroup and fundamental solutions. The controller is independent of the precise knowledge of parameters in the delay terms directly, so it has robustness to time delays in certain degree. Numerical simulations are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Resilient state estimation for time‐varying uncertain dynamical networks with data packet dropouts and switching topology: an event‐triggered method
Authors: Gao Ming , Hu Jun , Chen Dongyan , Jia Chaoqing
Published: October 2019

In this study, the recursive state estimation method based on the event‐triggered protocol is given for time‐varying uncertain complex networks with switching topology (ST), data packet dropouts (DPDs), and randomly occurring non‐linearities (RONs). The event‐triggered strategy is given to regulate the communications and then save the limited network resources when the measurement information is transmitted. The phenomena of RONs, ST, and DPDs are depicted by some random variables obeying the Bernoulli distribution. Besides, the estimator gain perturbations are dealt with. The major aim of this study is to present a new state estimation algorithm for addressed time‐varying uncertain complex networks such that, for all STs, DPDs, and RONs, a minimal upper bound of state estimation error covariance matrix is derived by designing an optimal estimator gain matrix. Finally, a numerical simulation is presented to show the effectiveness of the provided time‐varying state estimation method.
Observer‐based positive edge consensus for directed nodal networks
Authors: Qian Yuchen , Zhang Wei , Ji Mingming , Yan Chenhang
Published: October 2019

The positive edge consensus problem of linear systems on undirected as well as directed nodal networks is studied here. The authors first present a distributed observer‐based positive edge consensus algorithm to address the problem. The proposed observer‐based protocol has more design freedom and a general form which includes the classical Luenberger observer‐based protocol as a special case. Moreover, with the help of line graph theory, they map the edge topology to the line topology such that the state of each edge in the connected networks can reach consensus. Sufficient conditions in terms of solving the Sylvester matrix equation, and the linear matrix inequalities are provided to design the proposed algorithm. Finally, a simulation example is given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed positive edge consensus protocol.
Antiplasmodial Bis-Indole Alkaloids from the Bark of Flindersia pimenteliana
Authors: Robertson Luke P. , Lucantoni Leonardo , Avery Vicky M. , Carroll Anthony R.
Published: October 2019

Three new (1–3) and 2 known (4–5) bis-indole alkaloids were identified from the bark of Flindersia pimenteliana (Rutaceae). The structures of 1–3 were elucidated on the basis of their (+)-HRESESIMS and 2D NMR spectroscopic data. Antiplasmodial activity for 1–3 against chloroquine sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine-resistant (Dd2) Plasmodium falciparum is also reported, with IC50 values ranging from 0.96 to 2.41 µg/mL. These results expand our knowledge of the structure-activity relationships of potently antiplasmodial isoborreverine-type alkaloids, the bioactivity of which have recently attracted significant attention in the literature.
Turing patterns via pinning control in the simplest memristive cellular nonlinear networks
Authors: Buscarino Arturo , Corradino Claudia , Fortuna Luigi , Frasca Mattia
Published: October 2019

Complex patterns are commonly retrieved in spatially-extended systems formed by coupled nonlinear dynamical units. In particular, Turing patterns have been extensively studied investigating mathematical models pertaining to different fields, such as chemistry, physics, biology, mechanics, and electronics. In this paper, we focus on the emergence of Turing patterns in memristive cellular nonlinear networks by means of spatial pinning control. The circuit architecture is made by coupled units formed by only two elements, namely, a capacitor and a memristor. The analytical conditions for which Turing patterns can be derived in the proposed architecture are discussed in order to suitably design the circuit parameters. In particular, we derive the conditions on the density of the controlled nodes for which a Turing pattern is globally generated. Finally, it is worth to note that the proposed architecture can be considered as the simplest ideal electronic circuit able to undergo Turing instability and give rise to pattern formation.