bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lateral prefrontal activity as a compensatory strategy for deficits of cortical processing in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Zamorano Francisco , Billeke Pablo , Kausel Leonie , Larrain Josefina , Stecher Ximena , Hurtado Jose M. , López Vladimir , Carrasco Ximena , Aboitiz Francisco
Published: July 2017

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common neuropsychiatric disorder in childhood and is characterized by a delay of cortical maturation in frontal regions. In order to investigate interference control, which is a key function of frontal areas, a functional MRI study was conducted on 17 ADHD boys and 17 typically developing (TD) boys, while solving the multi source interference task (MSIT). This task consists of two conditions, a “congruent condition” and an “incongruent condition”. The latter requires to inhibit information that interferes with task-relevant stimuli. Behavioral results showed that ADHD subjects committed more errors than TD children. In addition, TD children presented a larger MSIT effect -a greater difference in reaction times between the incongruent and the congruent conditions- than ADHD children. Associated to the MSIT effect, neuroimaging results showed a significant enhancement in the activation of the right lateral prefrontal cortex (rlPFC) in ADHD than in TD subjects. Finally, ADHD subjects presented greater functional connectivity between rlPFC and bilateral orbitofrontal cortex than the TD group. This difference in connectivity correlated with worse performance in both groups. Our results could reflect a compensatory strategy of ADHD children resulting from their effort to maintain an adequate performance during MSIT.
Transcriptome profiling of mouse colonic eosinophils reveals a key role for eosinophils in the induction of s100a8 and s100a9 in mucosal healing
Authors: Reichman Hadar , Moshkovits Italy , Itan Michal , Pasmanik-Chor Metsada , Vogl Thomas , Roth Johannes , Munitz Ariel
Published: July 2017

Eosinophils are bone marrow-derived cells that have been largely implicated in Th2-associated diseases. Recent data highlights a key role for eosinophils in mucosal innate immune responses especially in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which is one of the largest eosinophil reservoirs in the body. Although eosinophils express and synthesize a plethora of proteins that can mediate their effector activities, the transcriptome signature of eosinophils in mucosal inflammation and subsequent repair has been considerably overlooked. We demonstrate that eosinophils are recruited to the colon in acute inflammatory stages where they promote intestinal inflammation and remain in substantial numbers throughout the mucosal healing process. Microarray analysis of primary colonic eosinophils that were sorted at distinct stages of mucosal inflammation and repair revealed dynamic regulation of colonic eosinophil mRNA expression. The clinically relevant genes s100a8 and s100a9 were strikingly increased in colonic eosinophils (up to 550-fold and 80-fold, respectively). Furthermore, local and systemic expression of s100a8 and s100a9 were nearly diminished in eosinophil-deficient ΔdblGATA mice, and were re-constituted upon adoptive transfer of eosinophils. Taken together, these data may provide new insight into the involvement of eosinophils in colonic inflammation and repair, which may have diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
Capecitabine, 5-fluorouracil and S-1 based regimens for previously untreated advanced oesophagogastric cancer: A network meta-analysis
Authors: ter Veer Emil , Ngai Lok Lam , Valkenhoef Gert van , Mohammad Nadia Haj , Anderegg Maarten C. J. , van Oijen Martijn G. H. , van Laarhoven Hanneke W. M.
Published: July 2017

As evidence is inconsistent and based on either isolated Asian or Western studies, we conducted a network meta-analysis (NMA) to examine efficacy and safety of 5-FU (5-fluorouracil), capecitabine and S-1-based first-line treatment of advanced esophagogastric cancer in Asian and Western patients. Medline, EMBASE, CENTRAL and conferences ASCO and ESMO were searched up to January 2016 for randomized-controlled-trials comparing 5-FU, capecitabine or S-1-based regimens with equal chemotherapy backbones. Direct and indirect data for overall survival (OS) and progression-free-survival (PFS) were combined on the Hazard Ratio (HR)-scale using random-effects NMA and calculated as combined HRs and 95%credible intervals (95%CrI). Grade 1-2 and grade 3-4 adverse events were compared with pair-wise meta-analysis. Fifteen studies were identified including capecitabine (n = 945), 5-FU (n = 2,132) or S-1 (n = 1,636). No differences were found in respectively OS and PFS for capecitabine-based versus 5-FU-based regimens (HR = 0.89, 95%CrI = 0.76–1.04 and HR = 0.98, 95%CrI = 0.75–1.32), S-1-based versus 5-FU-based regimens (HR = 0.92, 95%CrI = 0.82–1.04 and HR = 0.88, 95%CrI = 0.70–1.11) and S-1-based versus capecitabine-based regimens (HR = 1.03, 95%CrI = 0.87–1.22 and HR = 0.89, 95%CrI = 0.65–1.20). Effects were similar in Asian and Western subgroups. Toxicity profiles were different but a lower frequency of relevant adverse events was observed with S-1 In conclusion, as efficacy was similar, choosing fluoropyrimidines should be based on their individual toxicity profiles.
A novel single-crystal & single-pass source for polarisation- and colour-entangled photon pairs
Authors: Laudenbach Fabian , Kalista Sebastian , Hentschel Michael , Walther Philip , Hübel Hannes
Published: July 2017

We demonstrate a new generation mechanism for polarisation- and colour-entangled photon pairs. In our approach we tailor the phase-matching of a periodically poled KTP crystal such that two downconversion processes take place simultaneously. Relying on this effect, our source emits entangled bipartite photon states, emerging intrinsically from a single, unidirectionally pumped crystal with uniform poling period. Its property of being maximally compact and luminous at the same time makes our source unique compared to existing photon-entanglement sources and is therefore of high practical significance in quantum information experiments.
SLC39A4 expression is associated with enhanced cell migration, cisplatin resistance, and poor survival in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wu Dong-ming , Liu Teng , Deng Shi-hua , Han Rong , Xu Ying
Published: July 2017

The zinc transporter SLC39A4 influences epithelial cell morphology and migration in various cancers; however, its role in regulating cell invasion and chemotherapeutic resistance in human lung cancer is not yet clear. Here, integrated analysis of gene expression in non-small cell lung cancer revealed that SLC39A4 expression is significantly correlated with increased tumour size and regional lymph node spread, as well as shorter overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). SLC39A4 silencing by lentivirus-mediated shRNA blocked human lung cancer cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition and metastasis in vitro and in vivo, respectively. Moreover, SLC39A4 knockdown enhanced cancer cell sensitivity to cisplatin-induced death by inhibiting stemness in lung cancer cells. Collectively, these data suggest that SLC39A4 may be a novel therapeutic target and predictive marker of tumour metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer.
The emerging role of zinc transporters in cellular homeostasis and cancer
Authors: Bafaro Elizabeth , Liu Yuting , Xu Yan , Dempski Robert E
Published: July 2017

Zinc is an essential micronutrient that plays a role in the structural or enzymatic functions of many cellular proteins. Cellular zinc homeostasis involves the opposing action of two families of metal transporters: the ZnT (SLC30) family that functions to reduce cytoplasmic zinc concentrations and the ZIP (SLC39) family that functions to increase cytoplasmic zinc concentrations. Fluctuations in intracellular zinc levels mediated by these transporter families affect signaling pathways involved in normal cell development, growth, differentiation and death. Consequently, changes in zinc transporter localization and function resulting in zinc dyshomeostasis have pathophysiological effects. Zinc dyshomeostasis has been implicated in the progression of cancer. Here we review recent progress toward understanding the structural basis for zinc transport by ZnT and ZIP family proteins, as well as highlight the roles of zinc as a signaling molecule in physiological conditions and in various cancers. As zinc is emerging as an important signaling molecule in the development and progression of cancer, the ZnT and ZIP transporters that regulate cellular zinc homeostasis are promising candidates for targeted cancer therapy.
Different pH triggered aggregate morphologies in sodium oleate–cationic surfactants mixed systems
Authors: Dharaiya Nilesh , Patel Urja , Ray Debes , Aswal Vinod K. , Sastry Nandhibatla V. , Bahadur Pratap
Published: July 2017

The unusual effect of pH on the aggregate morphology of pH dependent surfactant systems.
Detection of a few DNA copies by real-time electrochemical polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Moreau M. , Delile S. , Sharma A. , Fave C. , Perrier A. , Limoges B. , Marchal D.
Published: July 2017

In the current work, accurate quantification over 10 to 108 DNA copies has been successfully achieved for the first time by real-time electrochemical PCR.
Innovative sandwich assay with dual optical and SERS sensing mechanisms for bacterial detection
Authors: Pearson Brooke , Wang Panxue , Mills Alexander , Pang Shintaro , McLandsborough Lynne , He Lili
Published: July 2017

The increased incidence of food pathogen outbreaks placed a new emphasis on the requirement of a rapid, sensitive, and reliable detection method for pathogens in food samples.
N9 substituent mediated structural tuning of copper–purine complexes: chelate effect and thin film studies
Authors: Avasthi Ilesha , Khanna Shruti , Tripathi Santosh K. , Verma Sandeep
Published: July 2017

Six Cu(ii) complexes of strategically designed derivatives of 6-chloropurine, one of which has been explored as a thin film precursor on quartz and Si(111) surfaces by using chemical vapor deposition (CVD).
Comment on “Brownian diffusion of a particle at an air/liquid interface: elastic (not viscous) response of the surface”
Authors: Boniello G. , Stocco A. , Blanc C. , Nobili M.
Published: July 2017

In a recent article Toro-Mendoza et al. considered an elastic response of an interface in order to explain the enhanced lateral drag of solid particles straddling fluid interfaces we recently measured.
Induced polarization restricts the conformational distribution of a light-harvesting molecular triad in the ground state
Authors: Starovoytov Oleg N. , Zhang Pengzhi , Cieplak Piotr , Cheung Margaret S.
Published: July 2017

Free energy surface of the light-harvesting triad employing a non-polarizable force field (NFF) and a polarizable force field (PFF) shows that induced polarization limits the motion of rotation about chemical bonds as well as bending at the porphyrin, which are prominent using the NFF, thus limiting the conformational space of the triad.
Landscape of the structure–O–H bond dissociation energy relationship of oximes and hydroxylamines
Authors: Dao Rina , Wang Xinyu , Chen Kexian , Zhao Chenxuan , Yao Jia , Li Haoran
Published: July 2017

Extensive data are provided for in-depth understanding of the structure–O–H-bond-dissociation-energy-relationship of oximes and hydroxylamines, and novel insights are brought to electronic effects.
Different natures of surface electronic transitions of carbon nanoparticles
Authors: Sciortino A. , Cayuela A. , Soriano M. L. , Gelardi F. M. , Cannas M. , Valcárcel M. , Messina F.
Published: July 2017

Pictorial representation of the fluorescence mechanisms proposed for carbon nanodots. Blue: tunable visible emission from surface-delocalized electronic states. Violet: UV emission from localized, quasi-molecular chromophores.
Stability of dye-sensitized solar cells under extended thermal stress
Authors: Yadav Surendra K. , Ravishankar Sandheep , Pescetelli Sara , Agresti Antonio , Fabregat-Santiago Francisco , Di Carlo Aldo
Published: July 2017

The graphical abstract shows 5 equivalent DSCs in masterplate configuration and their performance stability under thermal stress @85 °C during 4700 h. Ru505/L12 cells resulted the most stable dye/electrolite pair by retain more than 95% of initial efficiency.
Kinetics of complexation of V(v), U(vi), and Fe(iii) with glutaroimide-dioxime: studies by stopped-flow and conventional absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Parker Bernard F. , Zhang Zhicheng , Leggett Christina J. , Arnold John , Rao Linfeng
Published: July 2017

Stopped-flow and conventional kinetic experiments were conducted to compare the rates of complexation of glutaroimide-dioxime with V(v), U(vi), and Fe(iii) to support efficient seawater recovery of uranium.
Commercially available gluten-free pastas elevate postprandial glycemia in comparison to conventional wheat pasta in healthy adults: a double-blind randomized crossover trial
Authors: Johnston C. S. , Snyder D. , Smith C.
Published: July 2017

Given the popularity of gluten-free diets, research regarding the health implications of gluten-free (GF) products is necessary.
Dietary linoleic acid intake and blood inflammatory markers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Su Hang , Liu Ruijie , Chang Ming , Huang Jianhua , Wang Xingguo
Published: July 2017

This meta-analysis aims at investigating the effect of linoleic acid intake on inflammatory cytokines, acute phase reactants and adhesion molecules.
Highly efficient synchronized production of phenol and 2,5-dimethylfuran through a bimetallic Ni–Cu catalyzed dehydrogenation–hydrogenation coupling process without any external hydrogen and oxygen supply
Authors: Li Wei , Fan Guoli , Yang Lan , Li Feng
Published: July 2017

Highly efficient synchronized production of phenol and 2,5-dimethylfuran was achieved via a bimetallic Ni–Cu catalyzed dehydrogenation–hydrogenation coupling process.
An efficient approach for the synthesis of 5-hydroxy-chromeno[2,3-b]pyridines under catalyst and solvent free conditions
Authors: Gupta Shruti , Khurana Jitender M.
Published: July 2017

An efficient and sustainable method has been developed for the synthesis of novel 5-hydroxy-chromeno[2,3-b]pyridines by the reaction of 3-formylchromone, aromatic amines and malononitrile under catalyst and solvent-free conditions by simply stirring the components magnetically or by grinding at room temperature.
Smart textiles of MOF/g-C3N4nanospheres for the rapid detection/detoxification of chemical warfare agents
Authors: Giannakoudakis Dimitrios A. , Hu Yuping , Florent Marc , Bandosz Teresa J.
Published: July 2017

Impregnated cotton textiles with a MOF based nanocomposite revealed a supreme multi-functionality to adsorb/degrade/sense vapors of a nerve agent surrogate.
High catalytic activity of a bimetallic AgPd alloy supported on UiO-66 derived porous carbon for transfer hydrogenation of nitroarenes using formic acid-formate as the hydrogen source
Authors: Cheng Saisai , Shang Ningzhao , Zhou Xin , Feng Cheng , Gao Shutao , Wang Chun , Wang Zhi
Published: July 2017

The Ag1Pd9@NPC-UiO-66 catalyst was fabricated and exhibited extraordinary catalytic activity toward the hydrogenation of nitroarenes to anilines at room temperature.
Facile synthesis of Cu3(BTC)2/cellulose acetate mixed matrix membranes and their catalytic applications in continuous flow process
Authors: Hou Junying , Luan Yi , Huang Xiubing , Gao Hongyi , Yang Mu , Lu Yunfeng
Published: July 2017

The Cu3(BTC)2/cellulose acetate mixed matrix membranes were fabricated for the acetalization of aldehydes.
A versatile optical assay plate fabricated from e-waste and its application towards rapid determination of Fe3+ ions in water
Authors: Mujawar Liyakat Hamid , Dhavamani Jeyakumar , Soror El-Shahawi Mohammad
Published: July 2017

Fabricating an optical assay plate from e-waste and demonstrating its applicability towards one-step assays.
Solubility and hydrolysis of Tc(iv) in dilute to concentrated KCl solutions: an extended thermodynamic model for Tc4+–H+–K+–Na+–Mg2+–Ca2+–OH−–Cl−–H2O(l) mixed systems
Authors: Baumann A. , Yalçıntaş E. , Gaona X. , Altmaier M. , Geckeis H.
Published: July 2017

The solubility of Tc(iv) under strongly reducing conditions is investigated in KCl solutions with 1.5 ≤ pHm ≤ 14.5, and an extended thermodynamic model for the system Tc4+–H+–K+–Na+–Mg2+–Ca2+–OH−–Cl−–H2O(l) is provided.
Effects of electron-withdrawing groups in imidazole-phenanthroline ligands and their influence on the photophysical properties of EuIII complexes for white light-emitting diodes
Authors: Rajamouli Boddula , Devi Rachna , Mohanty Abhijeet , Krishnan Venkata , Vaidyanathan Sivakumar
Published: July 2017

The red light emitting diode (LED) was fabricated by using europium complexes with InGaN LED (395 nm) and shown digital images, corresponding CIE color coordinates (red region) as well as obtained highest quantum yield of the thin film (78.7%).
Csp2–Br bond activation of Br-pyridine by neophylpalladacycle: formation of binuclear seven-membered palladacycle and bipyridine species
Authors: Nicasio-Collazo Juan , Wrobel Katarzyna , Wrobel Kazimierz , Serrano Oracio
Published: July 2017

A small library of seven-membered palladacycles and asymmetric bipyridines was prepared via C–Br activation and C–C coupling reactions.
Mo doped Ni2P nanowire arrays: an efficient electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction with enhanced activity at all pH values
Authors: Sun Yiqiang , Hang Lifeng , Shen Qi , Zhang Tao , Li Huilin , Zhang Xiaomin , Lyu Xianjun , Li Yue
Published: July 2017

Mo doped Ni2P nanowire arrays were prepared with enhanced activity toward the hydrogen evolution reaction at all pH values.
Plasmon–trion and plasmon–exciton resonance energy transfer from a single plasmonic nanoparticle to monolayer MoS2
Authors: Wang Mingsong , Li Wei , Scarabelli Leonardo , Rajeeva Bharath Bangalore , Terrones Mauricio , Liz-Marzán Luis M. , Akinwande Deji , Zheng Yuebing
Published: July 2017

Tunable plasmon–trion and plasmon–exciton resonance energy transfer from a single Au nanotriangle (AuNT) to monolayer MoS2 are demonstrated.
Wrinkle-stabilized metal-graphene hybrid fibers with zero temperature coefficient of resistance
Authors: Fang Bo , Xi Jiabin , Liu Yingjun , Guo Fan , Xu Zhen , Gao Weiwei , Guo Daoyou , Li Peigang , Gao Chao
Published: July 2017

Metal-coated graphene fibers with metal-level electrical conductivities (up to 2.2 × 107 S m−1), zero temperature coefficient of resistance, and favorable flexibility are continuously fabricated via a wrinkle-stabilized approach, showing the guiding roles of multiscale wrinkles to the stable growth of metals on graphene surface.
Transfer hydrogenation of ortho-hydroxybenzophenone ketimines catalysed by BINOL-derived phosphoric acid occurs by a 14-membered bifunctional transition structure
Authors: Reid Jolene P. , Goodman Jonathan M.
Published: July 2017

Chiral BINOL-derived phosphoric acids catalyse the transfer hydrogenation of ketimines using Hantszch esters.
The influence of the pore structure of hollow silica–alumina composite spheres on their activity for hydrolytic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane
Authors: Umegaki Tetsuo , Ogawa Ryota , Toyama Naoki , Ohki Shinobu , Tansho Masataka , Shimizu Tadashi , Kojima Yoshiyuki
Published: July 2017

Hollow silica–alumina composite spheres with a homogeneous pore structure showed unexpected high activity for hydrolysis of ammonia borane.
Garciyunnanimines A–C, novel cytotoxic polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinol imines from Garcinia yunnanensis
Authors: Zheng Dan , Zhang Hong , Zheng Chang-Wu , Lao Yuan-Zhi , Xu Dan-Qing , Xiao Lian-Bo , Xu Hong-Xi
Published: July 2017

Novel cytotoxic PPAP imines from G. yunnanensis and the biomimetic synthesis of PPAP imines from corresponding PPAPs.
An unexpected acid-catalyzed decomposition reaction of cilnidipine and pranidipine to the decarboxylative bridged tricyclic products via cascade rearrangements
Authors: Yang Minghua , Zhang Shusheng , Zhang Xiang , Wang Haoyang , Zhang Fang , Hou Yuting , Su Yue , Guo Yinlong
Published: July 2017

A gas-phase Carroll rearrangement occurring during electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry led to the discovery of bridged tricyclic degradation products from cilnidipine and pranidipine.
l-Cysteine assisted-synthesis of 3D In2S3 for 3D CuInS2 and its application in hybrid solar cells
Authors: Yue Wenjin , Wei Feiyu , He Chenbin , Wu Dandan , Tang Nengwen , Qiao Qiquan
Published: July 2017

Hierarchical CuInS2 is synthesized with hierarchical In2S3 as the template, which is applied in MEH-PPV/CuInS2 hybrid solar cells firstly.
Correction: Hierarchically porous polystyrene membranes fabricated via a CO2-expanded liquid selective swelling and in situ hyper-cross-linking method
Authors: Wang Haozong , Bai Hua , Li Lei
Published: July 2017

Correction for ‘Hierarchically porous polystyrene membranes fabricated via a CO2-expanded liquid selective swelling and in situ hyper-cross-linking method’ by Haozong Wang et al., RSC Adv., 2015, 5, 68639–68645.
Edge mode amplification in disordered elastic networks
Authors: Yan Le , Bouchaud Jean-Philippe , Wyart Matthieu
Published: July 2017

Understanding how mechanical systems can be designed to efficiently transport elastic information is important in a variety of fields, including in materials science and biology.
High holding voltage SCRs with segmented layout for high‐robust ESD protection
Authors: Huang Xiaozong , Liu Zhiwei , Liu Fan , Liu Jizhi , Song Wenqiang
Published: July 2017

Two high holding voltage silicon controlled rectifiers (SCRs) with segmented layout for high‐robust ESD protection are proposed, which are called SeSCR (segmented SCR) and anti‐SeSCR (anti‐segmented SCR), implemented in a 0.6 μm silicon on insulator (SOI) process. The transmission line pulse (TLP) characterisation results show that the holding voltage of the proposed structures can be elevated and adjusted with new layout topologies and different width of the segmentations for specific purposes. Meanwhile, the equivalent schematics and mechanisms of the segmented SCRs are also discussed.
Enhanced local density estimation in internet of vehicles
Authors: Haouari Noureddine , Moussaoui Samira , Senouci Sidi Mohammed , Boualouache Abdelwahab , Guerroumi Mohamed
Published: July 2017

The Internet of vehicles allows connecting vehicles to the Internet to make all data from vehicles available for applications aimed towards improving safety and comfort for passengers. Density is one of the most important sensed data to gather. This information is mainly obtained through periodic messages broadcast by the neighbouring vehicles. However, the availability of this information depends on the Internet. A low penetration rate of Internet of vehicles, or the loss of Internet connection, can significantly affect the accuracy of the sensed density. Moreover, the reception rate of the periodic messages seriously drops at short distances caused by the broadcast storm problem in high‐density scenarios. To address this problem, using inter‐vehicular communications, we propose a segment‐based approach for enhancing the accuracy of the local density estimation. This approach provides a highly accurate estimation with low overhead over the maximum vehicles transmission range to all the vehicles. The proposed approach is extensively evaluated analytically and by simulation. Performance evaluation results show that our approach SLDE allows about 3% of mean error ratio with low overhead over the maximum transmission range.
High‐torque‐density pseudo‐direct‐drive permanent‐magnet machine with less magnet
Authors: Yin Xin , Fang Youtong , Pfister Pierre‐Daniel
Published: July 2017

Magnetic gears, an alternative to conventional mechanical gearboxes, have been extensively studied in the last decade. By combining a magnetic gear and a conventional permanent‐magnet machine into one frame, different magnetic‐gear‐integrated permanent‐magnet machines with a high‐torque density are obtained, among which the pseudo‐direct‐drive permanent‐magnet machine features both a high‐torque capability and a good power factor with an acceptable structural complexity. However, the stator PM array in the conventional pseudo‐direct‐drive permanent‐magnet machine obstructs the magnetic path and reduces the excitation torque due to the coils. Another problem is the large permanent‐magnet amount which increases the overall cost. The authors propose a novel topology which has an improved torque capability under the same excitation current with a reduced permanent‐magnet amount. The working principles of the proposed machine are analysed theoretically using the linear‐material assumption to decouple the permanent‐magnet‐machine part and the magnetic‐gear part. Its performance is then validated by the finite‐element method. A comparison study with the conventional topology is conducted to show its merits.
Bilateral sparse transform for fast solving EM scattering problems by compressed sensing
Authors: Cao Xinyuan , Chen Mingsheng , Wu Xianliang , Kong Meng , Qi Qi , Zhang Liang
Published: July 2017

Rapid and accurate calculation of electromagnetic (EM) scattering problems over a wide incident angle range is always a difficult task which requires repeated numerical computation as the incident angle changes. Aiming at this subject, a solution that introduces compressed sensing into traditional method of moments is described, and the bilateral sparse transform method is first proposed to form a new scheme, in which the effectiveness is improved greatly since the total number of measurements required is reduced drastically as compared with the traditional unilateral sparse transform method. The basic principle is analysed in detail and the high effectiveness of bilateral sparse transform is verified by numerical results.
Characterisation of distortion of narrowband signals by linear time‐invariant systems
Authors: Direen Randal H. , Kuester Edward F. , Elmansouri Mohamed A.
Published: July 2017

The fidelity factor is a commonly used measure of the level of distortion of pulses in ultrawideband systems. In this study, a detailed examination is made of this quantity and how it relates to actual situations of signals transmitted through a linear time‐invariant system. Several examples are considered where the fidelity factor can be evaluated in closed form, or nearly so. In addition, a closed‐form analytical approximation is derived for the fidelity factor in the case where the bandwidth of the input signal is not too large. A number of examples are presented to illustrate the conditions under which this approximation can be expected to be accurate. The error of the approximation is found to be small unless the transfer function of the linear system varies rapidly near the centre frequency of the signal.
Tropospheric dry delay for microwaves using a model based on surface measurements on a global scale
Authors: Bonafoni Stefania , Mattioli Vinia
Published: July 2017

A new model for the estimation of the dry path delay affecting electromagnetic waves traversing the neutral atmosphere (troposphere and stratosphere) is presented. For instance, an accurate evaluation of this parameter is necessary to directly get the amount of water vapour in the atmosphere from measurements of radio signals total delay available from global navigation satellite systems observations. The new model is based on a modification of the conventional Saastamoinen model and it is still based on surface data. It has been experimentally developed by linear regression exploiting a large set of radiosonde observations (107,168 for the training phase, 17,654 for the test phase) covering all latitudes and seasons with the purpose to obtain a high accuracy in the zenith dry delay (ZDD) estimation process employing dependence on surface temperature and pressure. The testing procedure has shown good performances with respect to the ZDD computed from radiosondes profiles (zero‐error bias, error standard deviation 0.48 cm) and a simple and general applicability of the formulated model design over a global range of spatial and temporal scales.
Fully integrated high‐efficiency high step‐down ratio DC–DC buck converter with predictive over‐current protection scheme
Authors: Wang Langyuan , Zhao Menglian , Wu Xiaobo , Gong Xiaohan , Yang Liuqing
Published: July 2017

A high‐efficiency fully integrated 36 V–3 A stepping down DC–DC converter with high step‐down ratio and predictive over‐current protection scheme is introduced. To achieve high‐voltage conversion ratio, emulated current mode and dedicated current sensing circuits were involved. A novel predictive over‐current scheme is proposed to overcome inherent lack of emulated current‐mode control and provide fast response to over‐current events. In addition, due to N‐type field effect transistor (NFET) was adopted to improve efficiency, a floating rail regulator is presented to generate bootstrapped voltage for driver stage. The proposed converter was simulated and fabricated in 0.18 μm bipolar‐complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS)‐double‐diffused MOS process. Experimental results show the features work well, and with 35 ns minimum on‐time, this converter can convert up to 36 V input voltage to 1.8 V at 1 MHz switching frequency with single stage and compact solution. Measured peak efficiency is 89.5% and over 80% efficiency for 3 A output current is realised as well.
Simultaneous fault detection algorithm for grid‐connected photovoltaic plants
Authors: Dhimish Mahmoud , Holmes Violeta , Mehrdadi Bruce , Dales Mark
Published: July 2017

In this work, the authors present a new algorithm for detecting faults in grid‐connected photovoltaic (GCPV) plant. There are few instances of statistical tools being deployed in the analysis of photovoltaic (PV) measured data. The main focus of this study is, therefore, to outline a PV fault detection algorithm that can diagnose faults on the DC side of the examined GCPV system based on the t‐test statistical analysis method. For a given set of operational conditions, solar irradiance and module temperature, a number of attributes such as voltage and power ratio of the PV strings are measured using virtual instrumentation (VI) LabVIEW software. The results obtained indicate that the fault detection algorithm can detect accurately different types of faults such as, faulty PV module, faulty PV String, faulty Bypass diode and faulty maximum power point tracking unit. The proposed PV fault detection algorithm has been validated using 1.98 kWp PV plant installed at the University of Huddersfield, UK.
Single‐signal entity approach for sung word recognition with artificial neural network and time–frequency audio features
Authors: Khunarsa Peerapol
Published: July 2017

Singing voice recognition is very different from speech recognition or automatic speech recognition because there are distinct differences between speaking and singing voices. The problem is complex because music audio signals with their background instrumental accompaniments are regarded as noise sources that degrade the performance of the recognition system. This study proposes a statistical learning method to recognise words in a vocal audio signal with background music and to classify the region of a singing voice in a polyphonic audio signal. The goal of this study is to solve the problem of recognising words from sung input without using any method to separate instrumental from the background. This study also applies a concept from image recognition by using a spectrogram feature as an image to solve the problem. An audio signal with accompanying music was analysed and transformed into a spectrogram feature. To recognise it, the entire spectrogram feature was sliced, forming a feature vector for a feed‐forward neural network classifier. Several classification functions were compared, including K ‐Nearest Neighbour, Fisher Linear Classifier, Linear Bayes Normal Classifier, Naive Bayes Classifier, Parzen Classifier and Decision Tree. The results show that using a feed‐forward neural network can effectively recognise sung words at an accuracy rate of more than 93.0%. In particular, this system can recognise cross‐language music data.
Cardiac Involvement in Sarcoidosis: Evolving Concepts in Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Sayah David , Bradfield Jason , Moriarty John , Belperio John , Lynch Joseph
Published: July 2017

Clinically evident sarcoidosis involving the heart has been noted in at least 2 to 7% of patients with sarcoidosis, but occult involvement is much higher (> 20%). Cardiac sarcoidosis is often not recognized antemortem, as sudden death may be the presenting feature. Cardiac involvement may occur at any point during the course of sarcoidosis and may occur in the absence of pulmonary or systemic involvement. Sarcoidosis can involve any part of the heart, with protean manifestations. Prognosis of cardiac sarcoidosis is related to the extent and site(s) of involvement. Most deaths due to cardiac sarcoidosis are due to arrhythmias or conduction defects, but granulomatous infiltration of the myocardium may be lethal. The definitive diagnosis of isolated cardiac sarcoidosis is difficult. The yield of endomyocardial biopsies is low; treatment of cardiac sarcoidosis is often warranted even in the absence of histologic proof. Radionuclide scans are integral to the diagnosis. Currently, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose–positron emission tomography/computed tomography and gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging scans are the key imaging modalities to diagnose cardiac sarcoidosis. The prognosis of cardiac sarcoidosis is variable, but mortality rates of untreated cardiac sarcoidosis are high. Although randomized therapeutic trials have not been done, corticosteroids (alone or combined with additional immunosuppressive medications) remain the mainstay of treatment. Because of the potential for sudden cardiac death, implantable cardioverter defibrillators should be placed in any patient with cardiac sarcoidosis and serious ventricular arrhythmias or heart block, and should be considered for cardiomyopathy. Cardiac transplantation is a viable option for patients with end-stage cardiac sarcoidosis refractory to medical therapy.
Quality of Life in Sarcoidosis
Authors: Judson Marc
Published: July 2017

Health-related quality of life (HRQL) is an important aspect of patient evaluation. HRQL is particularly important in sarcoidosis, where treatment decisions are often based on HRQL impairment. HRQL assessment in sarcoidosis must take into account not only the direct effects of the disease but also the disease's psychosocial and emotional impact as well as the potential toxicity of therapy. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) have been used to assess HRQL in sarcoidosis cohorts. Recent HRQL PROs have been developed that are sarcoidosis-specific and have adequate resolution to be used for monitoring individual patients potentially. In this article, the approach to HRQL assessment in sarcoidosis is discussed. This article focuses on the general approach to HRQL assessment, specific sarcoidosis issues concerning HRQL assessment, the construction of HRQL PROs, and their application in sarcoidosis. Several HRQL issues in sarcoidosis will be specifically highlighted, including parasarcoidosis syndromes, sarcoidosis-induced fatigue, and the impact of corticosteroid therapy.
Primary Management of Large Pancreatic Pseudoaneurysm by Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Thrombin Injection after Failure of Transarterial Pseudoaneurysm Embolization
Authors: Garg Pawan , Khera Pushpinder , Rajagopal Rengarajan , Mehta Neeraj , Tarafdar Swarnava
Published: July 2017

Pancreatic pseudoaneurysm is a rare but life-threatening complication secondary to pancreatitis, surgery, trauma, or infection. Early treatment is advocated due to high risk of rupture and bleeding. Surgical treatment has traditionally been the first line but is associated with high morbidity. Transarterial embolization or exclusion is the treatment of choice; however, in cases with failure of endovascular treatment, percutaneous thrombin injection can be used successfully. We present a case of a large pancreatic pseudoaneurysm managed successfully with percutaneous ultrasound-guided thrombin injection after failure of transarterial management.
The Clinical and Technical Effectiveness of Endovascular Embolization in Patients with Nonvariceal Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Elmi Azadeh , Walker T. , Ganguli Suvranu , Kalva Sanjeeva
Published: July 2017

Background and Aim Endovascular embolization is a well-established option in the management of acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) after failed therapeutic endoscopy; however, questions remain concerning the outcomes and the various predictors of clinical and technical success of this therapy. The authors aimed to assess the effectiveness of endovascular embolization in patients with nonvariceal GIB.

Method Clinical records of 88 patients (mean age: 67.8 years) who underwent endovascular embolization for GIB were reviewed. Patient demographics, history, angiographic findings, treatment, and outcomes were recorded. The technical success of embolization, and the 24-hour and 30-day rebleeding and mortality rates were calculated. Multivariate analysis was performed to assess the factors associated with 24-hour and 30-day rebleeding.

Results Angiography demonstrated signs of bleeding in 63 (71.6%) patients and all underwent selective embolization of the abnormal artery. Empiric embolization was performed in 25 patients. Embolization was performed with coils (n = 45), Gelfoam (n = 12), microparticles (n = 14), glue (n = 2), or a combination of these (n = 15). The technical success rate was 96.6%. The 24-hour and 30-day rebleeding occurred in 13 (14.7%) and 16 (18.2%) patients, respectively. The 24-hour and 30-day mortality rates were 9.1 and 11.3%, respectively. Ischemic complications following embolization were seen in three patients, of which two required surgery. Based on the multivariate analysis, the need for continued transfusion after embolization and prior GIB were independent variables associated with 24-hour and 30-day rebleeding, respectively.

Conclusions Endovascular embolization has a high technical and clinical success in patients presenting with nonvariceal GIB.
A Novel Technique of Posterolateral Suturing in Thoracoscopic Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair
Authors: Boo Yoon , Rohleder Stephan , Muensterer Oliver
Published: July 2017

Background Closure of the posterolateral defect in some cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) can be difficult. Percutaneous transcostal suturing is often helpful to create a complete, watertight closure of the diaphragm. A challenge with the technique is passing the needle out the same tract that it entered so that no skin is caught when the knots are laid down into the subcutaneous tissue. This report describes a novel technique using a Tuohy needle to percutaneously suture the posterolateral defect during thoracoscopic repair of CDH.

Case We report a case of a 6-week-old infant who presented with a CDH and ipsilateral intrathoracic kidney that was repaired using thoracoscopic approach. The posterolateral part of the defect was repaired by percutaneous transcostal suturing and extracorporeal knot tying. To assure correct placement of the sutures and knots, a Tuohy needle was used to guide the suture around the rib and out through the same subcutaneous tract. The total operative time was 145 minutes and there were no perioperative complications. The patient was followed up for 3 months, during which there was no recurrence.

Conclusion Our percutaneous Tuohy technique for closure of the posterolateral part of CDH enables a secure, rapid, and tensionless repair.
Auricular Composite Grafting in Functional Rhinoplasty
Authors: Toriumi Dean , Rao Neela
Published: July 2017

Surgical correction of defects of the internal nasal valve, ala, vestibule, and sill is widely regarded as a challenge due to concerns of poor outcomes of facial aesthetics and nasal function. Auricular composite grafting is a reliable method of reconstruction of deformities of the nasal vestibule and sill. A classification system of types of defects may help surgeons in understanding the indications for composite grafting. Furthermore, we have developed surgical techniques that enhance survival of composite grafts of larger size. Composite grafting is an effective technique to repair a wide range of defects of the internal nasal valve, nasal sill/ala, and vestibule with excellent functional and aesthetic results.
Geometric Modeling of the Nasal Valve
Authors: Victor Wasnard , Sclafani Matthew , Sclafani Anthony
Published: July 2017

We have used a simple geometric model to examine forces affecting the nasal valve after dorsal reduction and spreader graft placement. The study was designed on the geometric modeling of the internal nasal valve (INV). Published measurements of the leptorrhine nose were used to construct a geometric model of the INV. The changes in the cross-sectional area (CSA) occurring after reduction rhinoplasty were calculated algebraically, as was the effect of these changes on the tendency of the lateral wall of the INV to collapse. The effect of spreader grafting on the CSA was determined, and the total change in CSA of the INV in various scenarios was determined and compared with the reported normal CSA. Relative to published norms, the gain in CSA from spreader grafting can be significant if thick grafts are used. When the lateral wall of the INV is conceptualized as a cantilevered beam fixed medially, the reduction of length reduction of the lateral segment of the INV can significantly reduce the tendency for the inward collapse of the lateral wall. The reduction in CSA of the INV associated with dorsal nasal reduction can be ameliorated through the placement of spreader grafts. Moreover, the reduction in length of the INV sidewall also limits inward collapse, assuming it is firmly reattached to the dorsal septum. An enhanced appreciation of the physical properties of the INV anticipated through a simplified geometric analysis will be invaluable to the rhinological surgeon interested in enhancing nasal function.
Pancreatic Kaposiform Hemangioendothelioma Not Responding to Sirolimus
Authors: Triana Paloma , Dore Mariela , Nuñez Vanesa , Jimenez Javier , Miguel Miriam , Díaz Mercedes , Ricardo Joan , Andres Ane , Lopez Santamaria Manuel , Lopez-Gutierrez Juan
Published: July 2017

Background Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma (KHE) is a vascular tumor frequently associated with Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon (KMP), characterized by severe thrombocytopenia and consumptive coagulopathy. Visceral involvement in KHE is rare. In our recent experience, sirolimus has shown to be an effective treatment in cutaneous KHE, becoming indeed the treatment of choice in KMP. We report a case of pancreatic KHE associated with KMP and refractory to sirolimus.

Case Report A 4-month-old infant is referred for obstructive jaundice (10 mg/dL conjugated bilirubin) secondary to vascular pancreatic tumor. Magnetic resonance (MR) and immunohistochemistry were compatible with KHE, but the tumor was considered unresectable. We initiated sirolimus (0.8 mg/m2/12 h) to treat KMP, and interventional radiology was performed for percutaneous biliary diversion. This procedure prompted KMP (platelets: 51,000/µL). Sirolimus treatment for 7 days showed no effect; therefore, we started our VAT protocol (vincristine/aspirine/ticlopidin) with great response after 10 days (platelets: 3,70,000/µL). Three months later, percutaneous biliary diversion was replaced by a biliary stent. The tumor disappeared leaving fibrosis and dilatation of biliary tract needing hepaticojejunostomy 6 months later.

Discussion It is difficult to establish protocols for an unusual presentation of a tumor with different targets. This is a reason collaborative multicenter studies should be performed. Management of obstructive jaundice secondary to a tumor that usually regresses in 10 years is an added challenge; therefore, the management should be led by a multidisciplinary team.

Sirolimus treatment in cutaneous KHE has been described as successful in the literature, as well as in our own experience; however, it failed in our first patient with visceral KHE. We need to investigate the different response to pharmacological agents in tumors with similar histopathology, but with visceral involvement.
Prevalence and Distribution of Diabetes Mellitus in a Maximum Care Hospital: Urgent Need for HbA1c-Screening
Authors: Kufeldt Johannes , Kovarova Marketa , Adolph Michael , Staiger Harald , Bamberg Michael , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Fritsche Andreas , Peter Andreas
Published: July 2017

Objective Diabetes mellitus affects almost one in 10 individuals in Germany. So far, little is known about the diabetes prevalence in maximum care hospitals. We assessed the diabetes prevalence, proportion of undiagnosed cases, the effectiveness of diabetes screening in a university hospital, the consequences for hospital stay and acquired complications.

Research Design and Methods Over a 4 week period we determined HbA1c from 3 733 adult patients which were hospitalized at the university hospital of Tuebingen and had an available blood sample. Diabetes diagnosis was defined as HbA1c≥6.5% and/or previously documented diabetes diagnosis, prediabetes was defined as HbA1c≥5.7% and <6.5% without history of previous diabetes.

Results 23.68% of the patients had prediabetes and 22.15% had diabetes with a high variation between the specialised departments (range 5–43%). The rate of unknown diabetes was 3.7%, the number needed to screen was 17 in patients older than 50 years. Patients with diabetes had a prolonged hospital stay compared to the mean length of stay for their diagnosis related group (diabetes: 1.47±0.24 days; no diabetes: −0.18±0.13 days, p=0.0133). The prevalence of hospital acquired complications was higher in diabetic patients (diabetes: 197 of 630; no diabetes: 447 of 2 459, p<0.0001).

Conclusions Every fourth patient in the university hospital had diabetes and every second had either prediabetes or diabetes. It is also worthwhile to screen for unknown diabetes in patients over the age of 50. The high prevalence and negative consequences of diabetes require screening and intensified specialized diabetes treatment in hospitals.