bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metal-organic framework-derived metal oxide nanoparticles@reduced graphene oxide composites as cathode materials for rechargeable aluminium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Kaiqiang , Lee Tae Hyung , Cha Joo Hwan , Jang Ho Won , Choi Ji-Won , Mahmoudi Morteza , Shokouhimehr Mohammadreza
Published: September 2019

The use of metal oxides as electrode materials has seen great success in lithium-ion batteries. However, this type of electrode materials has been regarded as an improper option for rechargeable aluminium-ion batteries (AIBs) in comparison with sulfides and selenides, and has, thus, been nearly abandoned. Here, we demonstrate the suitability of metal oxides as cathode materials of AIBs, exhibiting high electrochemical activities toward Al-ion storage. We designed economical metal-oxide cathodes (Co3O4@reduced graphene oxide (rGO), Fe2O3@rGO, and CoFe2O4@rGO) for AIBs. The Co3O4@rGO displayed superior electrochemical properties, regarding both capacity and lifespan, to the current state-of-the-art cathode material reported by scientific literature. Furthermore, the CoFe2O4@rGO exhibits rational electrochemical capacities and an extremely stable charge/discharge process with an excellent Coulombic efficiency of 99.6%. The proposed study expects to stimulate researchers to focus on the overlooked metal oxides as competitive cathode materials for high performance AIBs.
Impacts of environmental complexity on respiratory and gut microbiome community structure and diversity in growing pigs
Authors: Megahed Ameer , Zeineldin Mohamed , Evans Kaleigh , Maradiaga Nidia , Blair Ben , Aldridge Brian , Lowe James
Published: September 2019

The limited understanding of the interaction between rearing environment of the growing pig and the pig’s microbial community impedes efforts to identify the optimal housing system to maximize animal health and production. Accordingly, we characterized the impact of housing complexity on shaping the respiratory and gut microbiota of growing pig. A total of 175 weaned pigs from 25 litters were randomly assigned within liter to either simple slatted-floor (S) or complex straw-based rearing ecosystem (C). Beside the floor swabs samples, fecal swabs and mucosal scraping samples from bronchus, ileum, and colon were collected approximately 164 days post-weaning at the time of slaughter. The S ecosystem seems to increase the α-diversity of respiratory and gut microbiota. Moreover, the C-raised pigs showed 35.4, 89.2, and 60.0% reduction in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio than the S-raised pigs at bronchus, ileum, and colon, respectively. The unfavorable taxa Psychrobacter, Corynebacterium, Actinobacteria, and Neisseria were the signature taxa of C environment-associated microbial community. Therefore, the microbiota of S-raised pigs seems to show higher density of the most essential and beneficial taxa than the C-raised pigs. We preliminarily conclude that increasing the physical complexity of rearing environment seems to provide suboptimal conditions for establishing a healthy microbial community in the growing pigs.
Functional metagenomic analysis of dust-associated microbiomes above the Red Sea
Authors: Aalismail Nojood A. , Ngugi David K. , Díaz-Rúa Rubén , Alam Intikhab , Cusack Michael , Duarte Carlos M.
Published: September 2019

Atmospheric transport is a major vector for the long-range transport of microbial communities, maintaining connectivity among them and delivering functionally important microbes, such as pathogens. Though the taxonomic diversity of aeolian microorganisms is well characterized, the genomic functional traits underpinning their survival during atmospheric transport are poorly characterized. Here we use functional metagenomics of dust samples collected on the Global Dust Belt to initiate a Gene Catalogue of Aeolian Microbiome (GCAM) and explore microbial genetic traits enabling a successful aeolian lifestyle in Aeolian microbial communities. The GCAM reported here, derived from ten aeolian microbial metagenomes, includes a total of 2,370,956 non-redundant coding DNA sequences, corresponding to a yield of ~31 × 106 predicted genes per Tera base-pair of DNA sequenced for the aeolian samples sequenced. Two-thirds of the cataloged genes were assigned to bacteria, followed by eukaryotes (5.4%), archaea (1.1%), and viruses (0.69%). Genes encoding proteins involved in repairing UV-induced DNA damage and aerosolization of cells were ubiquitous across samples, and appear as fundamental requirements for the aeolian lifestyle, while genes coding for other important functions supporting the aeolian lifestyle (chemotaxis, aerotaxis, germination, thermal resistance, sporulation, and biofilm formation) varied among the communities sampled.
Studies on the in vitro and in vivo metabolism of the synthetic opioids U-51754, U-47931E, and methoxyacetylfentanyl using hyphenated high-resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Nordmeier Frederike , Richter Lilian H. J. , Schmidt Peter H. , Schaefer Nadine , Meyer Markus R.
Published: September 2019

New Synthetic Opioids (NSOs) are one class of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) enjoying increasing popularity in Europe. Data on their toxicological or metabolic properties have not yet been published for most of them. In this context, the metabolic fate of three NSOs, namely, trans-3,4-dichloro-N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methyl-benzenacetamide (U-51754), trans-4-bromo-N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methyl-benzamide (U-47931E), and 2-methoxy-N-phenyl-N-[1-(2-phenylethyl)piperidin-4-yl] acetamide (methoxyacetylfentanyl), was elucidated by liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry after pooled human S9 fraction (phS9) incubations and in rat urine after oral administration. The following major reactions were observed: demethylation of the amine moiety for U-51754 and U-47931E, N-hydroxylation of the hexyl ring, and combinations thereof. N-dealkylation, O-demethylation, and hydroxylation at the alkyl part for methoxyacetylfentanyl. Except for U-47931E, parent compounds could only be found in trace amounts in rat urine. Therefore, urinary markers should preferably be metabolites, namely, the N-demethyl-hydroxy and the hydroxy metabolite for U-51754, the N-demethylated metabolite for U-47931E, and the N-dealkylated metabolite as well as the O-demethylated one for methoxyacetylfentanyl. In general, metabolite formation was comparable in vitro and in vivo, but fewer metabolites, particularly those after multiple reaction steps and phase II conjugates, were found in phS9. These results were consistent with those of comparable compounds obtained from human liver microsomes, human hepatocytes, and/or human case studies.
Bayesian Multiple Emitter Fitting using Reversible Jump Markov Chain Monte Carlo
Authors: Fazel Mohamadreza , Wester Michael J. , Mazloom-Farsibaf Hanieh , Meddens Marjolein B. M. , Eklund Alexandra S. , Schlichthaerle Thomas , Schueder Florian , Jungmann Ralf , Lidke Keith A.
Published: September 2019

In single molecule localization-based super-resolution imaging, high labeling density or the desire for greater data collection speed can lead to clusters of overlapping emitter images in the raw super-resolution image data. We describe a Bayesian inference approach to multiple-emitter fitting that uses Reversible Jump Markov Chain Monte Carlo to identify and localize the emitters in dense regions of data. This formalism can take advantage of any prior information, such as emitter intensity and density. The output is both a posterior probability distribution of emitter locations that includes uncertainty in the number of emitters and the background structure, and a set of coordinates and uncertainties from the most probable model.
Perceptual and conceptual processing of visual objects across the adult lifespan
Authors: Bruffaerts Rose , Tyler Lorraine K. , Shafto Meredith , Tsvetanov Kamen A. ,   Cambridge Centre for Ageing and Neuroscience, Brayne Carol , Bullmore Edward T. , Calder Andrew C. , Cusack Rhodri , Dalgleish Tim , Duncan John , Henson Richard N. , Matthews Fiona E. , Marslen-Wilson William D. , Rowe James B. , Campbell Karen , Cheung Teresa , Davis Simon , Geerligs Linda , Kievit Rogier , McCarrey Anna , Mustafa Abdur , Price Darren , Samu David , Taylor Jason R. , Treder Matthias , van Belle Janna , Williams Nitin , Bates Lauren , Emery Tina , Erzinçlioglu Sharon , Gadie Andrew , Gerbase Sofia , Georgieva Stanimira , Hanley Claire , Parkin Beth , Troy David , Auer Tibor , Correia Marta , Gao Lu , Green Emma , Henriques Rafael , Allen Jodie , Amery Gillian , Amunts Liana , Barcroft Anne , Castle Amanda , Dias Cheryl , Dowrick Jonathan , Fair Melissa , Fisher Hayley , Goulding Anna , Grewal Adarsh , Hale Geoff , Hilton Andrew , Johnson Frances , Johnston Patricia , Kavanagh-Williamson Thea , Kwasniewska Magdalena , McMinn Alison , Norman Kim , Penrose Jessica , Roby Fiona , Rowland Diane , Sargeant John , Squire Maggie , Stevens Beth , Stoddart Aldabra , Stone Cheryl , Thompson Tracy , Yazlik Ozlem , Barnes Dan , Dixon Marie , Hillman Jaya , Mitchell Joanne , Villis Laura , Clarke Alex
Published: September 2019

Making sense of the external world is vital for multiple domains of cognition, and so it is crucial that object recognition is maintained across the lifespan. We investigated age differences in perceptual and conceptual processing of visual objects in a population-derived sample of 85 healthy adults (24–87 years old) by relating measures of object processing to cognition across the lifespan. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) was recorded during a picture naming task to provide a direct measure of neural activity, that is not confounded by age-related vascular changes. Multiple linear regression was used to estimate neural responsivity for each individual, namely the capacity to represent visual or semantic information relating to the pictures. We find that the capacity to represent semantic information is linked to higher naming accuracy, a measure of task-specific performance. In mature adults, the capacity to represent semantic information also correlated with higher levels of fluid intelligence, reflecting domain-general performance. In contrast, the latency of visual processing did not relate to measures of cognition. These results indicate that neural responsivity measures relate to naming accuracy and fluid intelligence. We propose that maintaining neural responsivity in older age confers benefits in task-related and domain-general cognitive processes, supporting the brain maintenance view of healthy cognitive ageing.
Chronic oral exposure to field-realistic pesticide combinations via pollen and nectar: effects on feeding and thermal performance in a solitary bee
Authors: Azpiazu Celeste , Bosch Jordi , Viñuela Elisa , Medrzycki Piotr , Teper Dariusz , Sgolastra Fabio
Published: September 2019

Pesticide use is one of the main causes of pollinator declines in agricultural ecosystems. Traditionally, most laboratory studies on bee ecotoxicology test acute exposure to single compounds. However, under field conditions, bees are often chronically exposed to a variety of chemicals, with potential synergistic effects. We studied the effects of field-realistic concentrations of three pesticides measured in pollen and nectar of commercial melon fields on the solitary beeOsmia bicornisL. We orally exposed females of this species throughout their life span to 8 treatments combining two neonicotinoid insecticides (acetamiprid, imidacloprid) and a triazole fungicide (myclobutanil) via pollen and sugar syrup. We measured pollen and syrup consumption, longevity, ovary maturation and thermogenesis. Although bees consumed larger amounts of syrup than pollen, pesticide intake via syrup and pollen were similar. At the tested concentrations, no synergistic effects emerged, and we found no effects on longevity and ovary maturation. However, all treatments containing imidacloprid resulted in suppressed syrup consumption and drastic decreases in thoracic temperature and bee activity. Our results have important implications for pesticide regulation. If we had measured only lethal effects we would have wrongly concluded that the pesticide combinations containing imidacloprid were safe toO. bicornis. The incorporation of tests specifically intended to detect sublethal effects in bee risk assessment schemes should be an urgent priority. In this way, the effects of pesticide exposure on the dynamics of bee populations in agroecosystems will be better assessed.
Conversion of no/low value waste frying oils into biodiesel and polyhydroxyalkanoates
Authors: Vastano Marco , Corrado Iolanda , Sannia Giovanni , Solaiman Daniel K. Y. , Pezzella Cinzia
Published: September 2019

A sustainable bioprocess was developed for the valorization of a no/low value substrate, i.e. waste frying oils (WFOs) with high content of free fatty acids (FFAs), otherwise unsuitable for biodiesel production. The bioprocess was verified using both recombinant (Escherichia coli) and native (Pseudomonas resinovorans) polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) producing cell factories. Microbial fermentation of WFOs provided a 2-fold advantage: i) the reduction of FFAs content resulting into an upgrading of the “exhausted waste oils” and ii) the production of a bio-based microbial polymer. Proper strain designing and process optimization allowed to achieve up to 1.5 g L−1 of medium chain length, mcl-PHAs, together with an efficient conversion (80% yield) of the treated WFO into biodiesel.
Combined Effects of Having Sleep Problems and Taking Sleeping Pills on the Skeletal Muscle Mass and Performance of Community-Dwelling Elders
Authors: Yang Chuan-Wei , Li Chia-Ing , Li Tsai-Chung , Liu Chiu-Shong , Lin Chih-Hsueh , Lin Wen-Yuan , Lin Cheng-Chieh
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to explore the combined effects of having sleep problems and taking sleeping pills on the skeletal muscle mass and performance of community-dwelling elders. A total of 826 participants who have complete information regarding dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry examination, questionnaire, and physical performance tests were included. The status of having sleep problems and taking sleeping pills was assessed with a self-reported questionnaire. The prevalence rates of sleep problems among older men and women were 37.4% and 54.5%, respectively. After multivariate adjustment, the mean height-adjusted skeletal muscle indices for elders having sleep problems and taking sleeping pills among men and women were 7.29 and 5.66 kg/m2, respectively, which were lower than those without sleep problems (P = 0.0021 and P = 0.0175). The performance of the older men having sleep problems and taking sleeping pills in terms of walking speed, grip strength, and number of squats, was poorer than those of the older men without sleep problems. The status of having sleep problems and taking sleeping pills was correlated with low skeletal muscle mass and poor physical performance in community-dwelling elders. These findings suggest that having sleep problems and taking sleeping pills are associated with having sarcopenia among community elderly.
Testcross performance and combining ability of early maturing maize inbreds under multiple-stress environments
Authors: Annor Benjamin , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Nyadanu Daniel , Akromah Richard , Fakorede Morakinyo A. B.
Published: September 2019

Availability of multiple-stress tolerant maize is critical for improvement in maize production in West and Central Africa (WCA). A study was carried out to (i) assess a set of inbred lines for combining ability under stressed and optimal conditions, (ii) determine the performance of the testcrosses under different conditions, and (iii) identify outstanding hybrids across the conditions. Two hundred and five testcrosses were planted with five hybrid checks under Striga-infested, low soil nitrogen, drought and optimal conditions between 2015 and 2016 in Nigeria. The grain yield inheritance under optimal condition was largely regulated by additive gene effect whereas non-additive gene effects largely regulated grain yield under the three stresses. Four of the inbreds had significant positive general combining ability effects each under low N and drought, and three under Striga infestation for grain yield. The inbreds could be vital sources of beneficial alleles for development and improvement of tropical yellow maize hybrids and populations. Hybrids TZEI 443 x ENT 13 and TZEI 462 x TZEI 10 were high yielding and stable; they out-performed the three early maturing released hybrids in WCA. The new hybrids should be extensively assessed and released in the sub-region to improve food security.
Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for monitoring vitamin D hydroxymetabolites in human aqueous humor
Authors: Fabregat-Cabello Neus , Darimont Pierre , Huyghebaert Loreen , Reynier Pascal , Annweiler Cédric , Milea Dan , Le Goff Caroline , Cavalier Étienne
Published: September 2019

A stable isotope dilution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed for the determination of 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (24,25(OH)2D3) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3/D2 (25(OH)D3/D2) in human aqueous humor samples.
Correction: Housefly (Musca domestica) larvae powder, preventing oxidative stress injury via regulation of UCP4 and CyclinD1 and modulation of JNK and P38 signaling in APP/PS1 mice
Authors: He Yinru , Yang Xia , Jiao Mengya , Anoopkumar-Dukie Shailendra , Zeng Yu , Mei Hanfang
Published: September 2019

Correction for ‘Housefly (Musca domestica) larvae powder, preventing oxidative stress injury via regulation of UCP4 and CyclinD1 and modulation of JNK and P38 signaling in APP/PS1 mice’ by Yinru He et al., Food Funct., 2019, 10, 235–243.
Optimizing PtFe intermetallics for oxygen reduction reaction: from DFT screening to in situ XAFS characterization
Authors: Gong Mingxing , Zhu Jing , Liu Mingjie , Liu Peifang , Deng Zhiping , Shen Tao , Zhao Tonghui , Lin Ruoqian , Lu Yun , Yang Shize , Liang Zhixiu , Bak Seong Min , Stavitski Eli , Wu Qin , Adzic Radoslav R. , Xin Huolin L. , Wang Deli
Published: September 2019

Ordered PtFe with an atomic Pt shell has been successfully synthesized and delivers enhanced performance towards the ORR.
Magnetic biohybrid micromotors with high maneuverability for efficient drug loading and targeted drug delivery
Authors: Sun Mengmeng , Fan Xinjian , Meng Xianghe , Song Jianmin , Chen Weinan , Sun Lining , Xie Hui
Published: September 2019

Recent progress of untethered mobile micromotors has shown immense potential for targeted drug delivery in vivo.
Improvement in the quality of black phosphorus by selecting a mineralizer
Authors: Yu Ying , Xing Boran , Wang Dan , Guan Liao , Niu Xinyue , Yao Jiadong , Yan Xiaoyuan , Zhang Shucheng , Liu Yali , Wu Xiaoxiang , Sha Jian , Wang Yewu
Published: September 2019

BP grown using lead instead of tin as the mineralizer exhibits better properties, which are beneficial for its applications.
Preparation and dielectric properties of poly(acrylonitrile-co-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate) materialsviaradical emulsion copolymerization
Authors: Kadimi Amal , Kaddami Hamid , Ounaies Zoubeida , Habibi Youssef , Dieden Reiner , Ameduri Bruno , Raihane Mustapha
Published: September 2019

Radical emulsion copolymerization of acrylonitrile (AN) with 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate (MATRIF) and their homopolymerization initiated by potassium persulfate (KPS) were studied.
Muconic acid esters as bio-based acrylate mimics
Authors: Quintens Greg , Vrijsen Jeroen H. , Adriaensens Peter , Vanderzande Dirk , Junkers Tanja
Published: September 2019

Dialkyl muconates are synthesized from biobased muconic acid. These monomers are shown to be readily polymerized in radical polymerizations, and may serve as alternatives to classical acrylates.
Stepwise engineering ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeto produce (+)-valencene and its related sesquiterpenes
Authors: Ouyang Xiaodan , Cha Yaping , Li Wen , Zhu Chaoyi , Zhu Muzi , Li Shuang , Zhuo Min , Huang Shaobin , Li Jianjun
Published: September 2019

A new yeast-based platform for the biosynthesis of (+)-valencene and its related sesquiterpenes found in grapefruit.
Synthesis and anti-phytopathogenic activity of 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatives
Authors: Yin Xiao-Dan , Sun Yu , Lawoe Raymond Kobla , Yang Guan-Zhou , Liu Ying-Qian , Shang Xiao-Fei , Liu Hua , Yang Yu-Dong , Zhu Jia-Kai , Huang Xiao-Ling
Published: September 2019

Phytopathogenic fungi have become a serious threat to the quality of agricultural products, food security and human health globally, necessitating the need to discover new antifungal agents with de novo chemical scaffolds and high efficiency.
Appraisal of Cu(ii) adsorption by graphene oxide and its modelling via artificial neural network
Authors: Zhang Yumeng , Dai Min , Liu Ke , Peng Changsheng , Du Yufeng , Chang Quanchao , Ali Imran , Naz Iffat , Saroj Devendra P.
Published: September 2019

Graphene oxide (GO), as an emerging material, exhibits extraordinary performance in terms of water treatment.
Rapid13C NMR hyperpolarization delivered frompara-hydrogen enables the low concentration detection and quantification of sugars
Authors: Richardson Peter M. , Iali Wissam , Roy Soumya S. , Rayner Peter J. , Halse Meghan E. , Duckett Simon B.
Published: September 2019

The monosaccharides glucose and fructose are rapidly detected and quantified by13C NMR in conjunction with the hyperpolarisation method signal amplification by reversible exchange-relay.
Aerobic C–C and C–O bond formation reactions mediated by high-valent nickel species
Authors: Smith Sofia M. , Planas Oriol , Gómez Laura , Rath Nigam P. , Ribas Xavi , Mirica Liviu M.
Published: September 2019

Reported herein are organometallic Ni(ii) complexes that react with mild oxidants such as O2 and H2O2 and exhibit oxidatively-induced reactivity to yield C–C and C–O bond formation products via observable high-valent Ni intermediates.
The relationship between flux emergence and subsurface toroidal magnetic flux
Authors: Cameron R. H. , Jiang J.
Published: September 2019

Aims.The 1D mean-field equation describing the evolution of the subsurface toroidal field can be used with the observed surface radial field to model the subsurface toroidal flux density. Our aim is to test this model and determine the relationship between the observationally inferred surface toroidal field (as a proxy for flux emergence), and the modelled subsurface toroidal flux density.

Methods.We used a combination of sunspot area observations and the surface toroidal field inferred from Wilcox Solar Observatory (WSO) line-of-sight magnetic field observations. We then compared them with the results of a 1D mean-field evolution equation for the subsurface toroidal field, driven by the observed radial field from the National Solar Observatory/Kitt Peak and SOLIS observations.

Results.We derive calibration curves relating the subsurface toroidal flux density to the observed surface toroidal field strengths and sunspot areas. The calibration curves are for two regimes, one corresponding to ephemeral region emergence outside of the butterfly wings, the other to active region emergence in the butterfly wings. We discuss this in terms of the size and vertical velocity associated with the two types of flux emergence.
The influence of crop dryer operation parameters on the efficiency of energy recovery from extract air
Authors: Przydróżny Edward , Przydróżna Aleksandra , Szczęśniak Sylwia , Walaszczyk Juliusz
Published: September 2019

Crop drying, especially maize drying, occurs at low external air temperatures, which are lower than the extract air temperature. Therefore, using heat exchangers, to recover thermal energy from the extract air to preheat the cold and dry external air, results in a significant reduction in the primary energy demand for crop drying. The measurements of air parameters in the crop dryer, with a drying capacity of 19 Mg/h of maize, confirm the assumptions undertaken for the production of the heat recovery system. We apply the cross-counter-flow surface heat exchanger system to provide a significant improvement in the efficiency of crop drying. We perform the analysis of the thermal energy recovery system operation. Our results indicate the influence of the drying air set-point and the crop specific humidity on the efficiency of energy recovery from the exhaust air. We performed our measurements at different drying air temperature set-points and different crop relative humidity.
Comprehensive heat treatment using solar energy to produce high quality foam concrete
Authors: Tokmyrza Batyrkhan , Aruova Lyazat , Dauzhanov Nabi , Ospanova Zhumabeke , Utkelbaeva Aizhan
Published: September 2019

The article illustrates the possibility of producing products from foam concrete by using effective components and the intensification of solar heating by soft modes, which allows to obtain high-quality material and organize energy-efficient and environmentally friendly production. Solar technology in the production of foam concrete – a new method of heat treatment, which is highly environmentally friendly and safe.
Towards online triggering for the radio detection of air showers using deep neural networks
Authors: Föhrer Florian , Charnock Tom , Zilles Anne , Tueros Matias
Published: September 2019

The detection of air-shower events via radio signals requires the development of a trigger algorithm for clean discrimination between signal and background events in order to reduce the data stream coming from false triggers. In this contribution we will describe an approach to trigger air-shower events on a single-antenna level aswell as performing an online reconstruction of the shower parameters using neural networks.
Acoustic detection of neutrinos in bedrock
Authors: Trzaska Wladyslaw Henryk , Loo Kai , Enqvist Timo , Joutsenvaara Jari , Kuusiniemi Pasi , Slupecki Maciej
Published: September 2019

We propose to utilize bedrock as a medium for acoustic detection of particle showers following interactions of ultra-high energy neutrinos. With the density of rock three-times larger and the speed of sound four-times larger compared to water, the amplitude of the generated bipolar pressure pulse in rock should be larger by an order of magnitude. Our preliminary simulations confirm that prediction. Higher density of rock also guarantees higher interaction rate for neutrinos. A noticeably longer attenuation length in rock reduces signal dissipation. The Pyhäsalmi mine has a unique infrastructure and rock conditions to test this idea and, if successful, extend it to a full-size experiment.
Open-closed Iterative Learning Control Algorithm for Exoskeleton Rehabilitation Purposes
Authors: Lazarević Mihailo , Živković Nikola , Radojević Darko
Published: September 2019

The paper designs an appropriate iterative learning control (ILC) algorithm based on the trajectory characteristics of upper exosk el eton robotic system. The procedure of mathematical modelling of an exoskeleton system for rehabilitation is given and synthesis of a control law with two loops. First (inner) loop represents exact linearization of a given system, and the second (outer) loop is synthesis of a iterative learning control law which consists of two loops, open and closed loop. In open loop ILC sgnPDD2 is applied, while in feedback classical PD control law is used. Finally, a simulation example is presented to illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed advanced open-closed iterative learning control scheme.
Use of the shifting method results for PID controllers parameters estimation
Authors: Hornychová Alžbeˇta , Hofreiter Milan
Published: September 2019

This paper presents the use of the results of the shifting method of relay feedback identification for tuning the Proportional-Integral-Derivative controllers. Parameters of the second order plus time delay models estimated by the shifting method of relay feedback identification were used to compute controller parameters. Behaviour of closed loop systems with tuned controllers was tested and compared for three simulated systems and one real laboratory system. All tests were performed on the programmable logic controller Tecomat Foxtrot. In all the studied cases the use of the tuned controllers resulted in correct control of the system.
The design of a process for simplifying the insertion of a new scenario into the virtual simulator
Authors: Svoboda Petr , Rak Jakub , Lošek Václav
Published: September 2019

The research presented in this article is focused on managing the process of inserting new scenario into the virtual simulator. The first part of the article defines the basic logical division of scenarios whilst the next part contains the design of a tool for MS Excel. The tool is used to simplify the addition of a scenario into the existing simulator by means of an automated SQL script generation and this article describes its functionality together with an algorithm of its usage. The conclusion deals with checking the functionality of the tool by running the resulting SQL script with the existing database and by checking that the loading of the database with new scenario is correct.
Introducing green logistics elements into a selected company - case study
Authors: Tomastik Marek , Vichova Katerina , Cernohlavkova Eva , Habrova Marketa
Published: September 2019

In the case study, we examine the economic impacts of the environmental repercussions of logistics in the selected company. We deal with the current environmental and financial demands of the company chosen fleet and propose the adequate replacement of existing vehicles for electric vehicles and with the necessary accessories. We follow the possibilities of technological modifications for the option of installing the exact type of essential accessories with the simultaneous delimitation of parking areas, which would best meet the required criteria. We monitor the profitability of energy production. Furthermore, a technological solution that can be solved within a selected company. The aim of the case study is to compare the purchase costs of cars to different types of propulsion and to find out the possibility of achieving savings within the operating costs of in-house logistics. It also monitors the reduction in emission footprints and the perception of the company under review.
The finding of the queuing theory models for evaluation throughput of the IRS radio network in the Czech Republic
Authors: Večeřa Filip , Pavlík Lukáš
Published: September 2019

The queuing theory is a discipline that uses mathematical procedures to evaluate the usability of the utilization system - a radio-communication network. The paper describes the basic parameters of queuing systems and explains the individual variables used in queuing theory models. The functional principles of individual queuing theory models are graphically depicted in the article. The article also includes basic knowledge of the functions of the PEGAS radio communication network, which is used by IRS in the Czech Republic. Not least, the article searches for the most convenient model of queuing theory for the possible evaluation of the transmissivity of the Czech IRS radio network.
Peacock Motifs in Rig Vedic Hymns and Hungarian Folksongs
Authors: Revesz Peter Z.
Published: September 2019

Comparative musicology can link together the musical traditions of distant people. For example, Kodály found interesting melodic similarities between Hungarian and Mari folksongs. Although he found no melodic similarities between Hungarian and Indian folksongs, Kodály also believed that the peacock motif in Hungarian folksongs had an Indian origin. That would imply that texts with certain motifs are preserved even more than the melodies in folksongs. In this paper we show that it is indeed the case by describing a possible Rig Vedic origin of various Hungarian folksong texts with the peacock motif.
Beschäftigungsgruppe für ältere Männer
Authors: Blumenrode Stefan
Published: September 2019

Beschäftigungsideen für ältere Männer, speziell für ältere Männer mit kognitiven
Einschränkungen, sind in den Therapieangeboten von geriatrischen und
gerontopsychiatrischen Kliniken und Einrichtungen der Altenhilfe selten. Da die
Pflege- und Betreuungspersonen überwiegend weiblich sind, sind viele Materialien
für die Beschäftigung und Aktivierung auf eine weibliche Zielgruppe
zugeschnitten. Auch wenn männliche Patienten noch immer deutlich in der
Unterzahl sind, ihr Anteil steigt ständig – und Sitztanz macht nicht jeder Mann
mit. Welche Themen und Materialien Männer ansprechen und wie eine
Beschäftigungsgruppe für Männer gestaltet werden kann, möchten wir Ihnen hier
vorstellen.
Investigation on Mo Kα radiation from pulsed-power-driven needle-and-blade diode
Authors: Deng Minghai , Chen Xiaohui , Ma Xun , Ma Chenggang , Wu Hongguang , Li Hongtao
Published: September 2019

This article discusses the factors influencing the yields of molybdenum Kα radiations from a pulsed-power driven needle-and-blade diode for the application of real-time x-ray diffraction of shocked solids. Based on our 300 kV/10 kA pulsed power stand, electrical properties (diode voltage, current and deposited energy) and energy spectrum were evaluated under different diode configurations. It is found that the diode voltage plays an important role in the production of Kα radiation. A large emission angle was beneficial for obtaining higher Kα photon yields and the deposited power on diode could be generally used to predict the Kα radiation. These results are helpful to guide the development of pulsed power diode for dynamic x-ray diffraction applications.
Signaling the trustworthiness of science
Authors: Jamieson Kathleen Hall , McNutt Marcia , Kiermer Veronique , Sever Richard
Published: September 2019

Trust in science increases when scientists and the outlets certifying their work honor science’s norms. Scientists often fail to signal to other scientists and, perhaps more importantly, the public that these norms are being upheld. They could do so as they generate, certify, and react to each other’s findings: for example, by promoting the use and value of evidence, transparent reporting, self-correction, replication, a culture of critique, and controls for bias. A number of approaches for authors and journals would lead to more effective signals of trustworthiness at the article level. These include article badging, checklists, a more extensive withdrawal ontology, identity verification, better forward linking, and greater transparency.
An expert system for vehicle accident reconstruction
Authors: Lyubenov D , Mateev V , Kadikyanov G
Published: September 2019

The paper presents the capabilities of the developed expert system for vehicle accident reconstruction. The system determines converted energy for each vehicle, post-collision and pre-collision vehicles speeds, vehicle braking deceleration, the times in the braking process and total stopping distance. This system provides an opportunity to investigate the impact of various parameters at vehicle accident reconstruction. The developed expert system significantly reduces the time for the preparation of the expertise and the admission of errors. It can be used in expert practice and training.
Reproductive success and health of breeding Bank Swallows (Riparia riparia) in aggregate (sand and gravel) pit and natural lakeshore habitats
Authors: Burke Tianna R , Cadman Michael D , Nol Erica
Published: September 2019

Bank Swallows (Riparia riparia) are designated as Threatened in Canada, in part due to loss of natural breeding habitat along lakeshores and rivers. Excavation in sand and gravel pits (aka aggregate pits) has increased availability of potential nesting habitat away from lakes and rivers, and these substitute habitats may be important to stabilize the decline experienced by some Bank Swallow populations. Over 2 yr, we collected data on Bank Swallow reproductive success from 2 natural lakeshore habitat sites along bluffs of the north shore of Lake Ontario and 7 aggregate pits in southern Ontario, within 100 km of the lakeshore. Nests at the lakeshore habitat were initiated earlier than in aggregate pits, 8 days earlier in 2014 and 13 days earlier in 2015. Neither clutch size nor number of nestlings were different between the 2 habitat types. There were differences in the number of fledglings produced between the habitat types, with Bank Swallows nesting in aggregate pits raising more fledglings per successful nest. However, birds nesting in aggregate pits also had significantly more nests that raised no fledglings, even though eggs in those nests hatched. Breeding adults from aggregate pits were initially heavier than those from the lakeshore habitat, but their mass decreased significantly over the nesting season. Fledgling masses were not significantly different between habitat types. Parasite loads on fledgling Bank Swallows from aggregate pits were significantly lower than on fledglings from the lakeshore. These indicators suggest that aggregate pits can provide at least equivalent habitat for Bank Swallows to that provided by natural lakeshore habitat, making them potentially key for the recovery of this species in Ontario.
Peripheral Nerve Impairment and Recurrent Falls Among Women: Results From the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation
Authors: Ylitalo Kelly R , Strotmeyer Elsa S , Pettee Gabriel Kelley , Lange-Maia Brittney S , Avis Nancy E , Karvonen-Gutierrez Carrie A
Published: September 2019

Background

Falls and related injuries are important public health concerns yet underappreciated in early aging. This study examined the association of peripheral nerve impairment (PNI) with fall outcomes in early old aged women (60–72 years).

Methods

Women (n = 1,725; mean age 65.1 ± 2.7 years) from the longitudinal cohort Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation completed a PNI questionnaire on presence, frequency, and severity of symptoms, and 10- and 1.4-g monofilament testing in 2016–2017. PNI was defined as four or more self-reported symptoms or monofilament insensitivity. Recurrent falls (two or more) and recurrent fall injuries (two or more falls with one or more injuries) in the previous 12 months were assessed via questionnaire. Poisson regression was used to generate risk ratios (RRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the fall outcomes, adjusting for covariates.

Results

Approximately 12.3% of participants reported two ore more falls, 7.6% reported recurrent falls with injury, and 15.8% reported four or more PNI symptoms. Women with recurrent falls were more likely to report four or more PNI symptoms compared to women without recurrent falls (32.1% vs 13.5%; p < .001). One quarter (25.6%) of participants had four or more PNI symptoms or monofilament insensitivity; after adjusting for covariates, women with either symptoms or insensitivity were more likely to report recurrent falls compared to women with neither (RR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.24, 2.17).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that PNI may identify those at high risk for falls, particularly among women during early late life. Neuropathy screening instruments such as symptom questionnaires or monofilament testing are easy to implement and may have utility for fall risk assessment.
Discrepancies in Hearing Thresholds between Pure-Tone Audiometry and Auditory Steady-State Response in Non-Malingerers
Authors: Noh Heil , Lee Dong-Hee
Published: September 2019

Objectives:

To evaluate discrepancies between pure-tone audiometry (PTA) and auditory steady state response (ASSR) tests in non-malingerers and investigate brain lesions that may explain the discrepancies, especially in cases where the PTA threshold was worse than the estimated ASSR threshold.

Design:

PTA, speech audiometry, auditory brainstem response, ASSR, and neuroimaging tests were carried out on individuals selected from 995 cases of hearing impairment. Among these, medical records of 25 subjects (19 males, 6 females; mean age = 46.5 ± 16.0 years) with significant discrepancy between PTA and estimated ASSR thresholds were analyzed retrospectively. To define acceptable levels of discrepancy in PTA and ASSR hearing thresholds, 56 patients (27 males, 29 females; mean age = 53.0 ± 13.6 years) were selected for the control group. Magnetic resonance images, magnetic resonance angiograms, and positron emission tomograms were reviewed to identify any neurologic abnormalities.

Results:

Pathologic brain lesions were found in 20 cases (80%) in the study group, all of which showed a significant discrepancy in hearing threshold between PTA and ASSR. Temporal lobe lesions were found in 14 cases (70%), frontal lobe lesions in 12 (60%), and thalamic lesions without the frontal or temporal lobe in 2 cases (10%). On repeated PTA and ASSR tests a few months later, the discrepancy between ASSR and behavioral hearing thresholds was reduced or resolved in 6 cases (85.7%). Temporal lobe lesions were found in all 3 cases in which the estimated ASSR threshold worsened with unchanged PTA threshold, and frontal lobe lesions were found in all 3 cases in which the PTA threshold improved but the estimated ASSR threshold was unchanged. No neurological lesions were found in 5 cases (20%) of patients with a discrepancy between ASSR and behavioral hearing thresholds.

Conclusions:

Clinicians should not rely exclusively on ASSR, especially in cases of central nervous system including temporal, frontal lobe, or thalamus lesions. If no lesions are found in a neuroimaging study of a patient with a discrepancy between PTA thresholds and estimated ASSR thresholds, further functional studies of the brain may be needed. If clinicians encounter patients with a discrepancy between PTA thresholds and estimated ASSR thresholds, an evaluation of brain lesions and repeat audiologic tests are recommended in lieu of relying solely on ASSR.
Use of Medicare Data to Identify Team-based Primary Care
Authors: Kuo Yong-Fang , Raji Mukaila A. , Lin Yu-Li , Ottenbacher Margaret E. , Jupiter Daniel , Goodwin James S.
Published: September 2019

Background:

It is unclear whether Medicare data can be used to identify type and degree of collaboration between primary care providers (PCPs) [medical doctors (MDs), nurse practitioners, and physician assistants] in a team care model.

Methods:

We surveyed 63 primary care practices in Texas and linked the survey results to 2015 100% Medicare data. We identified PCP dyads of 2 providers in Medicare data and compared the results to those from our survey. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value (PPV) of dyads in Medicare data at different threshold numbers of shared patients were reported. We also identified PCPs who work in the same practice by Social Network Analysis (SNA) of Medicare data and compared the results to the surveys.

Results:

With a cutoff of sharing at least 30 patients, the sensitivity of identifying dyads was 27.8%, specificity was 91.7%, and PPV 72.2%. The PPV was higher for MD-nurse practitioner/physician assistant pairs (84.4%) than for MD-MD pairs (61.5%). At the same cutoff, 90% of PCPs identified in a practice from the survey were also identified by SNA in the corresponding practice. In 5 of 8 surveyed practices with at least 3 PCPs, about ≤20% PCPs identified in the practices by SNA of Medicare data were not identified in the survey.

Conclusions:

Medicare data can be used to identify shared care with low sensitivity and high PPV. Community discovery from Medicare data provided good agreement in identifying members of practices. Adapting network analyses in different contexts needs more validation studies.
Classification of Endometrial Carcinoma: New Perspectives Beyond Morphology
Authors: Akhtar Mohammed , Al Hyassat Samir , Elaiwy Orwa , Rashid Sameera , Al-Nabet Ajayeb D.M.H.
Published: September 2019

Endometrial carcinoma has been traditionally divided into type 1 or endometrioid type that is usually moderate to well differentiated and type 2 that is usually poorly differentiated with high histologic grade and aggressive clinical behavior. However, interobserver diagnostic agreement is suboptimal, particularly among the high-grade histotypes. Furthermore, recent data indicate that this histotype assignment does not independently correlate with survival. In recent years, there has been remarkable progress in our understanding of the molecular basis of endometrial carcinoma and extensive molecular studies have been performed under The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) leading to molecular classification of endometrial carcinoma that has been shown to be significantly prognostic. This classification system divides the tumors into 4 subgroups namely, polymerase ε exonuclease (POLE) ultramutated, hypermutated microsatellite instability, copy number low, and copy number high (serous-like). Carcinomas with POLE domain hotspot mutations are highly prognostically favorable; those with copy number alterations and TP53 mutations are highly aggressive; and microsatellite unstable and “copy number low” endometrioid are associated with intermediate prognoses. The TCGA applied methods that are too costly and cumbersome for widespread implementation into routine clinical practice. Several other groups have attempted to identify these categories by using immunohistochemical biomarkers rather than molecular studies. Immunohistochemical biomarkers have been used successfully to identify all the subgroups except for POLE ultramutated, which requires sequencing for proper categorization. It is hoped that future studies will identify a suitable biomarker for POLE mutation so that this classification can be routinely used in all medical centers.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Children With Chronic Illness Compared to Parents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hall Cheryl A. , Donza Carly , McGinn Sarah , Rimmer Alexandra , Skomial Suzanna , Todd Emily , Vaccaro Francesco
Published: September 2019

Purpose:

The purpose of this systematic review is to identify quality-of-life issues that affect participation in age-appropriate activities in chronically ill children, as reported by the children and their families.

Summary of Key Points:

Social and emotional functioning scores on the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 were found to have the greatest frequency of poor agreement between parents and children in 4 of the 6 studies included in this review, suggesting parents and children have wide variation in their assessment in these areas of psychosocial function.

Conclusions:

Cumulative evidence appears to indicate that parents of children with chronic illness perceive their children as having a poorer quality of life than the children report for themselves.

Recommendations for Clinical Practice:

Identifying differences and commonalities between these reports can guide health care practitioners to specific activities that should be the focus of caring for children; specifically, functional goal development can become more personalized and appropriate.
Detection of mutations in the VP7 gene of vaccine-derived strains shed by monovalent rotavirus vaccine recipients
Authors: Kaneko Mei , Takanashi Sayaka , Inoue Mana , Sakiyama Hiroshi , Okitsu Shoko , Mizuguchi Masashi , Ushijima Hiroshi
Published: September 2019

Strains of Rotarix, a live attenuated monovalent oral rotavirus vaccine, replicate in the intestine and are shed for about one month in immunocompetent recipients. The current study aimed to identify genetic changes of shed strains to reveal any significant mutations and their clinical impact on recipients. Stool samples of recipients of the first dose of Rotarix were sequentially collected for one month from the day of administration. Sequence analyses of the VP7 gene in eight recipients revealed five amino acid substitutions. Among them, two were observed in aa123, which is located in antigenic region 7-1a. Since there were no associated clinical symptoms, the genetic changes were unlikely to have caused reversion of pathogenicity of vaccine strain. Of interest, the virus in one case became closer to wild-type rotavirus via an amino acid change at aa123 occurring 14 days after administration, which might have resulted from multiple replications and long-term shedding of the vaccine strain.