bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two‐Dimensional Metal‐Halide Perovskite‐based Optoelectronics: Synthesis, Structure, Properties and Applications
Authors: Li Hongda , Luo Tianyuan , Zhang Shoufeng , Sun Zijun , He Xiong , Zhang Wenfeng , Chang Haixin
Published: May 2020

In the past decade, metal‐halide perovskites have attracted increasing attention in optoelectronics, due to their superior optoelectronic properties. However, inherent instabilities of conventional three‐dimensional (3D) perovskites over moisture, heat, and light remain a severe challenge before the realization of commercial application of metal‐halide perovskites. Interestingly, when the dimensions of metal‐halide perovskites are reduced to two dimensions (2D), many of the novel properties will arise, such as enlarged bandgap, high photoluminescence quantum yield, and large exciton binding energy. As a result, 2D metal‐halide perovskite‐based optoelectronic devices display excellent performance, particularly as ambient stable solar cells with excellent power conversion efficiency (PCE), high‐performance light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) with sharp emission peak, and high‐sensitive photodetectors. In this review, we first introduce the synthesis, structure, and physical properties of 2D perovskites. Then, the 2D perovskite‐based solar cells, LEDs, and photodetectors are discussed. Finally, a brief overview of the opportunities and challenges for 2D perovskite optoelectronics is presented.
Ecological speciation in European whitefish is driven by a large-gaped predator
Authors: Öhlund Gunnar , Bodin Mats , Nilsson Karin A. , Öhlund Sven-Ola , Mobley Kenyon B. , Hudson Alan G. , Peedu Mikael , Brännström Åke , Bartels Pia , Præbel Kim , Hein Catherine L. , Johansson Petter , Englund Göran
Published: May 2020

Lake-dwelling fish that form species pairs/flocks characterized by body size divergence are important model systems for speciation research. Although several sources of divergent selection have been identified in these systems, their importance for driving the speciation process remains elusive. A major problem is that in retrospect, we cannot distinguish selection pressures that initiated divergence from those acting later in the process. To address this issue, we studied the initial stages of speciation in European whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus) using data from 358 populations of varying age (26–10,000 years). We find that whitefish speciation is driven by a large-growing predator, the northern pike (Esox lucius). Pike initiates divergence by causing a largely plastic differentiation into benthic giants and pelagic dwarfs: ecotypes that will subsequently develop partial reproductive isolation and heritable differences in gill raker number. Using an eco-evolutionary model, we demonstrate how pike's habitat specificity and large gape size are critical for imposing a between-habitat trade-off, causing prey to mature in a safer place or at a safer size. Thereby, we propose a novel mechanism for how predators may cause dwarf/giant speciation in lake-dwelling fish species.
Influence of multisource fire on temperature distribution and natural smoke exhaust effect in urban tunnels with a shaft
Authors: Zhou Yang , Chen Fei , Chen Jian , Jiang Binhui
Published: May 2020

The combustion characteristics of multisource fire and single‐source fire are quite different, and there is little research on the influence of multisource fire on the natural smoke extraction effect of shaft in urban tunnels. Therefore, in this article, the method of numerical simulation was used to study the influence of fire power and distance between two fire sources on the natural smoke extraction effect of shaft and the temperature distribution in tunnel in the case of multisource fire. Typical characteristics of smoke are analyzed, such as mass flow rate, temperature distribution, velocity vector, and CO concentration. The simulation results show that when there is a certain distance between the fire sources, the two flames are inclined and close to each other. The smoke temperature under the ceiling is higher under multiple fire sources than that under single fire source. In addition, when one of the fire sources is located at the downstream of the shaft, the smoke emission in the shaft is relatively high. As the distance between fire sources continues to increase, the smoke exhaust rate basically remains stable, and an empirical relationship between smoke exhaust rate and fire source location is established.
Evaluation of bioactivity of butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata D.) seeds and skin
Authors: Li Haoxin
Published: May 2020

Butternut squash is greatly consumed in United Kingdom and as by‐products of its processing are produced large amounts of skin and seeds. However, little research has been reported on the antioxidant properties and bioactive peptides from butternut squash seeds and skin. This study focused on assessing the potential of these wastes as sources of beneficial and bioactive compounds. The results indicated that the squash skin phenolic extract showed higher values of antioxidant activity and phenolic content compared with the values of phenolic for the seed material (3.20 mg GAE/g, 1.82 mg GAE/g, respectively). Furthermore, both squash seed protein hydrolysate and skin phenolic extract inhibited α‐amylase activity in a dose‐dependent manner (5–20 mg/ml). Hydrolyzed peptides from squash seeds possess antihypertensive ability (which was significantly different from the control group p < .05). Therefore, it can be demonstrated that these squash residues are potentially good sources of bioactive compounds with health benefits.
Does adequate physical activity attenuate the associations of alcohol and alcohol‐related cancer mortality? A pooled study of 54 686 British adults
Authors: Feng Yingyu , Powell Lauren , Vassallo Amy Jo , Hamer Mark , Stamatakis Emmanuel
Published: May 2020

The potential of physical activity (PA) to attenuate the effects of alcohol consumption on the risks of alcohol‐related cancer mortality is unknown. We used data from participants aged 30 years and over in 10 British population‐based surveys (Health Surveys for England 1994, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2003, 2004, 2006 and 2008 and the Scottish Health Surveys 1998 and 2003). Alcohol‐related cancer mortality included oral cavity, throat, larynx, oesophagus, liver, colorectal, stomach and female breast (conservative definition), and additionally pancreas and lung (broad definition). Alcohol consumption was categorised into six groups based on the UK units/week: (a) never‐drinkers, (b) ex‐drinkers, (c) occasional drinkers, (d) within guidelines (<14 UK units/week [women]; <21 UK units/week [men]), (e) hazardous (14‐35 [women]; 21‐49 [men]) and (f) harmful (>35 [women]; >49 [men]). PA was categorised using two dichotomous classifications based on the lower (7.5 Metabolic Equivalent Task [MET]‐hours/week) and upper (15 MET‐hours/week) recommended limits. Using Cox proportional hazard models, we found a strong direct association between alcohol consumption and mortality risk of alcohol‐related cancers, with a significantly higher risk among ex‐drinkers (Hazard ratio [HR] = 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.09, 1.94]), drinkers who consumed hazardous (HR = 1.39, 95% CI = [1.06, 1.83]) and harmful amounts of alcohol (HR = 1.62, 95% CI = [1.13, 2.30]) compared to never‐drinkers in the fully adjusted model. The increased mortality risks were substantially attenuated when participants in these drinking groups exercised >7.5 MET‐hours/week. PA could be promoted as an adjunct risk minimisation measure for alcohol‐related cancer prevention.
COVID‐19, Globalization, De‐globalization and the Slime Mold's Lessons For Us All
Authors: Pross Addy
Published: May 2020

The world is struggling with the COVID‐19 pandemic on a backdrop of conflicting globalization and de‐globalization forces. A study of biology reveals that nature has been contending with such general issues for billions of years and has come up with broad strategies for their resolution. Copy and paste!
Intuitionistic fuzzy approach for enhancement of low contrast mammogram images
Authors: Chaira Tamalika
Published: May 2020

Mammogram image enhancement is very much necessary in diagnosing breast cancer or tumor at an early stage. Nonuniform illumination and low contrast images are commonly encountered in mammogram images. Conventional enhancement algorithms produce either some artifacts or cannot highlight minute details present in the images, particularly when dealing with mammogram images. In this article, we propose a new mammogram image enhancement scheme using Atanassov's intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS) theory. IFS considers two uncertainties—membership and nonmembership degree apart from membership degree as in fuzzy set theory. As mammogram images are low contrast images and many of the image definitions are vague/unclear, so IFS theory may be suitable for better image enhancement. Initially, the image is transformed to an intuitionistic fuzzy image using a novel intuitionistic fuzzy generator. Hesitation degree is computed and using the hesitation degree, two membership levels are computed to form an interval type 2 fuzzy set. These two membership functions are then combined using Zadeh's fuzzy t‐conorm to form a new membership function. Threshold of interval type 2 fuzzy image is obtained using restricted equivalence function. Using the threshold, modified fuzzy hyperbolization is carried out. Real data experiments demonstrate that the proposed algorithm has better performance on contrast and visual quality of the images both quantitatively and qualitatively when compared with different existing methods.
Temporal modulation of optical energy for enhanced photothermal hemostasis of intraoperative bleeding during laser treatment
Authors: Park Suhyun , Kang Hyun Wook
Published: May 2020

Intraoperative bleeding during laser treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) often impedes cystoscopic vision, necessitating the use of conventional hemostatic devices. This study proposes an optical technique to improve the efficacy of photothermal hemostasis of bleeders during laser prostatectomy by temporally modulating a 532 nm laser beam. A perfused porcine kidney model is established to quantitatively investigate various optical pulse patterns and irradiation modes. Thermal simulations demonstrate a high success rate of complete hemostasis achieved by the modulated 532 nm pulse pattern. In comparison to the irradiation modes typically employed for hemostasis, the modulated 532 nm mode exhibits a short coagulation time and minimal thermal injury. ex vivo and in vivo cystoscopic observations validate the clinical feasibility of the proposed optical energy modulation method to regulate intraoperative bleeding.
Translation of an esophagus histopathological FT‐IR imaging model to a fast quantum cascade laser modality
Authors: Liberda Danuta , Hermes Michael , Koziol Paulina , Stone Nick , Wrobel Tomasz P.
Published: May 2020

The technical progress in fast quantum cascade laser (QCL) microscopy offers a platform where chemical imaging becomes feasible for clinical diagnostics. QCL systems allow the integration of previously developed FT‐IR‐based pathology recognition models in a faster workflow. The translation of such models requires a systematic approach, focusing only on the spectral frequencies that carry crucial information for discrimination of pathologic features. In this study, we optimize an FT‐IR‐based histopathological method for esophageal cancer detection to work with a QCL system. We explore whether the classifier's performance is affected by paraffin presence from tissue blocks compared to removing it chemically. Working with paraffin‐embedded samples reduces preprocessing time in the lab and allows samples to be archived after analysis. Moreover, we test, whether the creation of a QCL model requires a preestablished FTIR model or can be optimized using solely QCL measurements.
Osteoporosis Management in the Era of COVID-19
Authors: Yu Elaine W , Tsourdi Elena , Clarke Bart L , Bauer Douglas C , Drake Matthew T
Published: May 2020

Osteoporosis is a chronic condition that reflects reduced bone strength and an associated increased risk for fracture. As a chronic condition, osteoporosis generally requires sustained medical intervention(s) to limit the risks for additional bone loss, compromise of skeletal integrity, and fracture occurrence. Further complicating this issue is the fact that the abrupt cessation of some therapies can be associated with an increased risk for harm. It is in this context that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented disruption to the provision of health care globally, including near universal requirements for social distancing. In this Perspective, we provide evidence, where available, regarding the general care of patients with osteoporosis in the COVID-19 era and provide clinical recommendations based primarily on expert opinion when data are absent. Particular emphasis is placed on the transition from parenteral osteoporosis therapies. It is hoped that these recommendations can be used to safely guide care for patients with osteoporosis until a return to routine clinical care standards is available. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Efficient computation of free energy surfaces of chemical reactions using ab initio molecular dynamics with hybrid functionals and plane waves
Authors: Mandal Sagarmoy , Nair Nisanth N.
Published: May 2020

Ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations employing density functional theory (DFT) and plane waves are routinely carried out using density functionals at the level of generalized gradient approximation (GGA). AIMD simulations employing hybrid density functionals are of great interest as it offers a more accurate description of structural and dynamic properties than the GGA functionals. However, the computational cost for carrying out calculations using hybrid functionals and plane wave basis set is at least two orders of magnitude higher than that using GGA functionals. Recently, we proposed a strategy that combined the adaptively compressed exchange operator formulation and the multiple time step integration scheme to reduce the computational cost by an order of magnitude [J. Chem. Phys. 151, 151102 (2019)]. In this work, we demonstrate the application of this method to study chemical reactions, in particular, formamide hydrolysis in an alkaline aqueous medium. By actuating our implementation with the well‐sliced metadynamics scheme, we can compute the two‐dimensional free energy surface of this reaction at the level of hybrid‐DFT. This work also investigates the accuracy of the PBE0 (hybrid) and the PBE (GGA) functionals in predicting the free energetics of this chemical reaction.
Nutrient starvation and light deprivation effects on starch accumulation in Landoltia punctata cultivated on anaerobically digested dairy manure
Authors: Kruger Kevin , Chen Lide , He B. Brian
Published: May 2020

Duckweed has been recognized for its potential of producing biomass on nutrients from waste streams. Our research has shown that strains of duckweed can be successfully cultivated on anaerobically digested (AD) dairy manure under controlled levels of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). The objective of this study was to explore the maximization of starch accumulation in Landoltia punctata (Mey.) Les & Crawford strain 0128 under different cultivation conditions using AD dairy manure as the nutrient source. Experimental results have shown that the most influential factors for starch accumulation in L. punctata were the nutrient concentration and the appropriate scheduling of nutrient starvation at the right growth stages. In our study, nutrient starvation for starch accumulation in L. punctata was achieved by incorporating nutrient addition of appropriately diluted AD dairy manure sequentially in a controlled manner under a constant light intensity of 3,000 lx. It was observed that a starch concentration of 30% (w/w) within the L. punctata biomass was achieved with an initial total N of 57.1 mg L−1 and a total P of 6.7 mg L−1 after a 30‐d cultivation. Under the abovementioned cultivation conditions, the duckweed L. punctata recovered 16.3% (±4.0%) of total N and 25.9% (±6.6%) of total P from AD manure into its biomass. It is concluded that L. punctata can be successfully cultivated on nutrients from dairy manure for starch production, which would achieve well‐being for dairy farmers by producing a feedstock for biofuels while treating dairy wastewater in an environmentally friendly manner.
Evaluation of 11 years of newborn screening for maple syrup urine disease in the Netherlands and a systematic review of the literature: Strategies for optimization
Authors: Stroek Kevin , Boelen Anita , Bouva Marelle J. , De Sain‐van der Velden Monique , Schielen Peter C. J. I. , Maase Rose , Engel Henk , Jakobs Bernadette , Kluijtmans Leo A. J. , Mulder Margot F. , Rubio‐Gozalbo M. E. , van Spronsen Francjan J. , Visser Gepke , de Vries Maaike C. , Williams Monique , Heijboer Annemieke C. , Kemper Evelien A. , Bosch Annet M.
Published: May 2020

Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) leads to severe neurological deterioration unless diagnosed early and treated immediately. We have evaluated the effectiveness of 11 years of MSUD newborn screening (NBS) in the Netherlands (screening >72 hours, referral if both total leucine (Xle) and valine ≥400 μmol/L blood) and have explored possibilities for improvement by combining our data with a systematic literature review and data from Collaborative Laboratory Integrated Reports (CLIR). Dutch MSUD NBS characteristics and accuracy were determined. The hypothetical referral numbers in the Dutch population of additional screening markers suggested by CLIR were calculated. In a systematic review, articles reporting NBS leucine concentrations of confirmed patients were included. Our data showed that NBS of 1 963 465 newborns identified 4 MSUD patients and led to 118 false‐positive referrals (PPV 3.28%; incidence 1:491 000 newborns). In literature, leucine is the preferred NBS parameter. Total leucine (Xle) concentrations (mass‐spectrometry) of 53 detected and 8 false‐negative patients (sampling age within 25 hours in 3 patients) reported in literature ranged from 288 to 3376 (median 900) and 42 to 325 (median 209) μmol/L blood respectively. CLIR showed increasing Xle concentrations with sampling age and early NBS sampling and milder variant MSUD phenotypes with (nearly) normal biochemical profiles are causes of false‐negative NBS results. We evaluated the effect of additional screening markers and established the Xle/phenylalanine ratio as a promising additional marker ratio for increasing the PPV, while maintaining high sensitivity in the Dutch MSUD NBS.
Characterizing phosphorus availability in waste products by chemical extractions and plant uptake
Authors: Christiansen Nina Høj , Sørensen Peter , Labouriau Rodrigo , Christensen Bent T. , Rubæk Gitte Holton
Published: May 2020

Background:The fertilizer value of phosphorus (P) in waste products relies heavily on its availability to the subsequent crop.

Aim:We studied the link between extractable P in waste products and apparent P recovery (APR,i.e., difference in plant P uptake between P amended and un‐amended soils divided by the amount of P added) using spring barley grown on three sandy soils.

Methods:The products included sewage sludge, biomass ash, struvite, compost, meat and bone meal, biochar from sewage sludge, and industrial sludge. Soft rock phosphate and triple‐superphosphate (TSP) were included for comparison. Availability of P was characterized by extraction with water and solutions of sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, oxalic acid, hydrochloric acid, ammonium acetate, ammonium fluoride and anion exchange resin membranes. TSP was used to establish mineral‐fertilizer‐equivalents (MFE). Water and bicarbonate extractions were also applied to products incubated with soil before extraction.

Results:The APR ranged 26 to 31% for TSP and 0 to 30% for waste products. APR correlated most strongly with bicarbonate extractable P. The correlation increased when products were incubated with soil before extraction.

Conclusions:We conclude that bicarbonate extraction is a good indicator of potential P availability. However, interactions between waste products and soil properties modify P availability.
Quantum chemical study of the reaction of trichloroethylene with O(3P)
Authors: Messaoudi Boulanouar
Published: May 2020

The adiabatic mechanism of the reaction of trichloroethylene with O(3P), exploring the various O‐atom addition and H‐atom abstraction channels, is theoretically studied at the MP2/6‐311++G(2d, 2p), MP2/aug‐cc‐pVTZ, CCSD/6‐31G(d), G3, and CBS‐QB3 levels of theory. From a kinetic point of view, the addition to the less substituted carbon atom of the double bond is more favorable than the addition to the more substituted carbon. Such O‐atom addition reactions are favored over the one possible hydrogen‐abstraction reaction. Calculations of the present study showed that five products are obtained: HCCl + C(O)Cl2 (P1), Cl + ClC(O)CHCl (P2), H + ClC(O)CCl2 (P3), Cl + HC(O)CCl2 (P4), and CH(O)Cl + CCl2 (P5). The products P2 and P4 are found to be the most favored ones. The kinetic calculations of rate constant in the range of 285–395 K are performed at the CBS‐QB3 level of theory and are in conformity with the experimental outcomes.
Topical fibroblast growth factor‐2 for treatment of chronic tympanic membrane perforations
Authors: Santos Felipe , Shu Edina , Lee Daniel J. , Jung David H. , Quesnel Alicia M. , Stankovic Konstantina M. , Abdul‐Aziz Dunia E. , Bay Camden P. , Quinkert Amy , Welling D. Bradley
Published: May 2020

Objective

To determine the efficacy of fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2) in treating chronic nonhealing tympanic membrane (TM) perforations.

Method

Double‐blinded, randomized placebo controlled phase 2 clinical trial for patients with chronic TM perforations of more than 3 months duration with a cross‐over arm. Patients received either FGF‐2 or placebo (sterile water) saturated gelatin sponge in the perforation after rimming the perforation under topical anesthesia. The perforation was then covered with Tisseel fibrin glue. The primary endpoint was complete closure of the TM perforation. Secondary end points included change in hearing and partial TM closure rates. The TM was examined every 3 weeks with otoendoscopy for closure. The treatment was repeated if there was incomplete closure every 3 weeks up to a total of three treatments per arm.

Results

Seventy four patients were recruited for the study. Fifty seven met eligibility criteria and fifty four completed the study. Ten of 14 perforations closed completely in the placebo group (71.4%) and 23 of 40 perforations closed completely in the FGF‐2 treatment group (57.5%), P value = .36. Pure tone averages and word recognition scores were not statistically significantly different between study groups post‐treatment. After initial complete closure, re‐perforation occurred in seven FGF‐2 treated patients and two placebo patients making the effective final closure rate 40% for FGF and 57% for placebo, respectively.

Conclusion

No statistically significant difference in tympanic membrane perforation closure rate was found between the FGF‐2 and placebo groups. There were no differences in hearing outcomes between the groups.

Level of evidence

1b.
Relationship of Cerebrospinal Fluid Vitamin B12 Status Markers With Parkinson's Disease Progression
Authors: Christine Chadwick W. , Auinger Peggy , Saleh Nasrin , Tian Miao , Bottiglieri Teodoro , Arning Erland , Tran Nam K. , Ueland Per Magne , Green Ralph ,   the Parkinson Study Group—DATATOP Investigators
Published: May 2020

Background

Using blood specimens from untreated early Parkinson's disease (PD) patients from the DATATOP trial, we found that subjects in the low serum vitamin B12 tertile experienced greater annualized change in ambulatory capacity score, whereas those with moderately elevated (>15 μmol/L) total homocysteine had greater annualized declines in the Mini‐Mental State Exam.

Methods

In this this study we sought to determine whether levels of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) B12 markers were also associated with progression of PD.

Results

The annualized change in the UPDRS “walking” item, a component of the ambulatory capacity score, was worse in the low B12 tertile. No association with change in the Mini‐Mental State Exam was seen for those 7% with the highest baseline CSF total homocysteine.

Conclusions

In these untreated early‐PD subjects, low CSF B12 predicted greater worsening of the UPDRS “walking” item, whereas CSF total homocysteine was not associated with progression of cognitive impairment. These findings extend and partially support our findings in serum. © 2020 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Acromicric dysplasia with stiff skin syndrome‐like severe cutaneous presentation in an 8‐year‐old boy with a missense FBN1 mutation: Case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Tao , Yang Yuyan , Dong Qi , Zhu Huijuan , Liu Yuehua
Published: May 2020

Background

Acromicric dysplasia is a rare heritable short‐stature syndrome with joint stiffness and varying degrees of cutaneous hardness. Stiff skin syndrome is a rare connective tissue disorder characterized by diffusely thick and hard skin from the time of birth. Heterozygous point mutations in the FBN1 have been proposed as the predominant cause of both diseases.

Methods

By performing skin biopsy, X‐ray imaging, electrocardiography, as well as whole‐genome sequencing and Sanger sequencing, we diagnosed an 8‐year‐old Chinese boy as acromicric dysplasia with severe skin stiffness caused by a heterogeneous mutation in the FBN1.

Results

The patient presented with skin tightness, wrist and ankle stiffness, short stature and limbs, several deformed joints in the extremities, cone‐shaped epiphyses, and distinct facial features. He also had a patent foramen ovale and frequent respiratory infections. Skin biopsy showed thickened dermis and excessive collagen aggregation. Alcian blue staining indicated dermal mucopolysaccharide deposition. Mutation analysis revealed a heterozygous missense mutation, c.5243G>A (p.Cys1748Tyr), in exon 42 of the FBN1.

Conclusion

This is a report about acromicric dysplasia with stiff skin syndrome‐like severe cutaneous presentation caused by a single hotspot mutation, further revealing the gene pleiotropy of FBN1.
Stability of an incompressible plasma–vacuum interface with displacement current in vacuum
Authors: Morando Alessandro , Secchi Paolo , Trakhinin Yuri , Trebeschi Paola
Published: May 2020

We study the free boundary problem for a plasma–vacuum interface in ideal incompressible magnetohydrodynamics. Unlike the classical statement when the vacuum magnetic field obeys the div‐curl system of pre‐Maxwell dynamics, to better understand the influence of the electric field in vacuum, we do not neglect the displacement current in the vacuum region and consider the Maxwell equations for electric and magnetic fields. Under the necessary and sufficient stability condition for a planar interface found earlier by Trakhinin, we prove an energy a priori estimate for the linearized constant coefficient problem. The process of derivation of this estimate is based on various methods, including a secondary symmetrization of the vacuum Maxwell equations, the derivation of a hyperbolic evolutionary equation for the interface function, and the construction of a degenerate Kreiss‐type symmetrizer for an elliptic‐hyperbolic problem for the total pressure.
Solution method for the time‐fractional hyperbolic heat equation
Authors: Dassios Ioannis , Font Francesc
Published: May 2020

In this article, we propose a method to solve the time‐fractional hyperbolic heat equation. We first formulate a boundary value problem for the standard hyperbolic heat equation in a finite domain and provide an analytical solution by means of separation of variables and Fourier series. Then, we consider the same boundary value problem for the fractional hyperbolic heat equation. The fractional problem is solved using three different definitions of the fractional derivative: the Caputo fractional derivative and two recently defined alternative versions of this derivative, the Caputo–Fabrizio and the Atangana–Baleanu. A closed form of the solution is provided for each case. Finally, we compare the solutions of the fractional and the standard problem and show numerically that the solution of the standard hyperbolic heat equation can be retrieved from the solution of the fractional equation in the limit γ→2, where γ represents the exponent of the fractional derivative.
Wideband and compact rat‐race coupler for fifth‐generation N77/N78/N79 applications
Authors: Zhou Bo , Zhang Ziyang , Li Changkun , Qian Li , Wang Yunheng
Published: May 2020

A wideband and compact rat‐race coupler that covers 3 to 5 GHz is proposed for the fifth‐generation new radio N77/N78/N79 applications. The wideband characteristic is obtained by using cascaded two‐section topology and broadside‐coupled lines at each input/output port. Miniaturization of two‐section rings is achieved using meander microstrip lines. A fractional bandwidth of 50% and a size reduction of 60% are both reached. Good in‐phase and out‐of‐phase characteristics are obtained as well. The circuit can be easily fabricated using conventional printed circuit board process and suitable for mass production.
Model reduction for nonlinear multiscale parabolic problems using dynamic mode decomposition
Authors: Jiang Lijian , Li Mengnan
Published: May 2020

In this article, a model reduction technique is presented to solve nonlinear multiscale parabolic problems using dynamic mode decomposition. The multiple scales and nonlinearity bring great challenges for simulating the problems. To overcome this difficulty, we develop a model reduction method for the nonlinear multiscale dynamic problems by integrating constraint energy minimizing generalized multiscale finite element method (CEM‐GMsFEM) with dynamic mode decomposition (DMD). CEM‐GMsFEM has shown great efficiency to solve linear multiscale problems in a coarse space. However, using CEM‐GMsFEM to directly solve multiscale nonlinear parabolic models involves dynamically computing the residual and the Jacobian on a fine grid. This may be very computationally expensive because the evaluation of the nonlinear term is implemented in a high‐dimensional fine scale space. As a data‐driven method, DMD can use observation data and give an explicit expression to accurately describe the underlying nonlinear dynamic system. To efficiently compute the multiscale nonlinear parabolic problems, we propose a CEM‐DMD model reduction by combing CEM‐GMsFEM and DMD. The CEM‐DMD reduced model is a coarsen linear model, which avoids the nonlinear solver in the fine space. It is crucial to judiciously choose observation in DMD. Only proper observation can render an accurate DMD model. In the context of CEM‐DMD, we introduce two different observations: fine scale observation and coarse scale observation. In the construction of DMD model, the coarse scale observation requires much less computation than the fine scale observation. The CEM‐DMD model using the coarse scale observation gives a complete coarse model for the nonlinear multiscale dynamic systems and significantly improves the computation efficiency. To show the performance of the CEM‐DMD using the different observations, we present a few numerical results for the nonlinear multiscale parabolic problems in heterogeneous porous media.
Predicting physical activity and cardiovascular risk and quality of life in adults with osteoarthritis at risk for metabolic syndrome: A test of the information‐motivation‐behavioral skills model
Authors: Kim Chun‐Ja , Kang Hee Sun , Kim Jung Suk , Won Ye Yeon , Schlenk Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2020

Aim

To examine a hypothetical model of physical activity and health outcomes (cardiovascular risk and quality of life) based on the information–motivation–behavioural skills model in adults.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A total of 165 adults with osteoarthritis at risk for metabolic syndrome were recruited between October 2016 and September 2017 from the outpatient clinic in South Korea. Data were collected on the model constructs such as cognitive function, social support, depressive symptoms, barriers to self‐efficacy, physical activity and quality of life. A hypothetical model was tested using the AMOS 25.0 program.

Results

Cognitive function and barriers to self‐efficacy had a direct effect on physical activity. Physical activity had a direct effect on cardiovascular risk, while social support and depressive symptoms had a direct effect on quality of life.

Conclusions

The information–motivation–behavioural skills model can predict physical activity and, in turn, cardiovascular risk and quality of life in adults with osteoarthritis at risk for metabolic syndrome.
Comparison of depth of cure in opaque sealant cured with high irradiance light‐emitting diodes at various light tip distances
Authors: Cloud Corey J. , Tantbirojn Daranee , Wells Martha H. , Versluis Antheunis
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate depth of cure of an opaque sealant when light cured from increasing tip distances with high irradiance light‐emitting diode (LED) curing units.

Methods

Ultraseal XT Plus opaque sealant was cured in a 2 × 2 × 5 mm covered slot mold using LEDs in high irradiance (VALO, SmartLite) or regular mode (Demi Ultra). Curing durations were 9, 15, and 20 seconds for the VALO, SmartLite, and Demi Ultra, respectively. The light tip was placed at three distances from the sealant surface (0, 3, and 5 mm; N = 10/group). Depth of cure was determined at the sealant surface and at 0.5 mm increments using Vicker's hardness (VHN). Results were statistically analyzed using two‐way ANOVA and multiple comparisons (α = 0.05).

Results

Depth of cure was significantly affected by the LEDs and light tip distance. At 0.5 mm below the surface, most combinations resulted in hardness higher than 80% of the surface value, except for SmartLite at 3 and 5 mm tip distances and VALO at 5 mm tip distance. Regardless of the tip distance, VALO and Demi Ultra achieved similar VHN values through 1.5 mm depth.

Conclusions

It is not likely that sealant is adequately cured with LEDs, even for those in high power mode, when the light tip is moved away from the surface due to lower radiant exposure.
A Shell‐by‐Shell Approach for Synthesis of Mesoporous Multi‐Shelled Hollow MOFs for Catalytic Applications
Authors: Sun Bo , Zeng Hua Chun
Published: May 2020

Over the past two decades, advanced materials with hollow interiors have received significant attention in materials research owing to their great application potential across a vast number of technological fields. Though with great difficulty, multi‐shelled hollow metal–organic frameworks (MSHMs) have also been successfully synthesized in recent years. Herein, a rational shell‐by‐shell soft‐templating protocol has been devised to fabricate highly uniform multi‐shelled hollow cobalt‐imidazole‐based MOF (ZIF‐67). For the first time, it has become possible to endow mesoporosity to this new type of functional material (i.e., mesoporous MOFs). When used as carrier materials in catalytic reactions, in principle, these mesoporous MSHMs with high surface area not only improve the dispersity of metal nanoparticles (NPs), but also efficiently facilitate the mass diffusion of the reactions, resulting in enhanced catalyst activity. Moreover, the obtained MSHMs/M nanocomposites serve as base‐metal bifunctional catalysts for one‐pot oxidation‐Knoevenagel condensation cascade reaction, in which the MSHMs itself serves as a pristine active catalyst in addition to its role of catalyst support. The results demonstrate that excellent multifunctional catalysts can be achieved via preparing intrinsically microporous bulk MOFs into extrinsically mesoporous MSHMs which possess many structural merits that conventional bulk MOFs do not have.
2,4,6‐Triamino‐1,3,5‐Trinitrobenzene Explosive Wastewater Treatment by Hydrodynamic Cavitation Combined with Chlorine Dioxide
Authors: Wang Kun , Jin Riya , Qiao Yina , He Zengdi , Wang Xiaojian , Wang Chaoqi , Lu Yanrong
Published: May 2020

A large amount of wastewater is produced in the process of 2,4,6‐Triamino‐1,3,5‐trinitrobenzene (TATB) production, which is harmful to the environment and human health. In this work, the removal rate of chemical oxygen demand (COD) from TATB wastewater was investigated by using hydrodynamic cavitation (HC), chlorine dioxide (ClO2), and the combination of the HC and ClO2. We explored the effects of different operating parameters on extent of degradation including time (10–60 min), concentration of ClO2 (25–150 mg/L) and initial pH (6, 9.25). The result showed that the reduction of COD from explosive wastewater with initial concentration of 5407 mg COD/L was 65.9 % after a 60 min treatment with a ClO2 dosage of 150 mg/L at a pH of 6. The COD removal process by the HC/ClO2 conforms to a pseudo‐first‐order kinetic equation with a reaction rate of 20.8×10−3 min−1. We were able to determine that the HC/ClO2 method has a synergistic effect on TATB wastewater treatment with a synergetic coefficient of 3.01. By comparing the cavitational yield and cost of each process, the HC/ClO2 has a higher energy efficiency (26.78×10−3 mg/J). In conclusion, the HC/ClO2 composite process is more economical, effective, and suitable for large‐scale commercial operations.
Synthesis of Functional 2‐Substituted 1,3‐Dinitroimidazolidines
Authors: Sysolyatin Sergey V. , Paromov Artyom E.
Published: May 2020

Three new functional 2‐substituted 1,3‐dinitroimidazolidines were synthesized herein. A synthetic strategy is suggested for structurally different α,α‐dinitraminocarboxylic acids via condensation of glyoxylic acid ethyl ester with amine or amide derivatives. Alkali‐ and acid‐catalyzed hydrolyses of ethyl 1,3‐dinitroimidazolidine‐2‐carboxylate were studied. A series of hydrolysis products were isolated. The Curtius rearrangement of 1,3‐dinitroimidazolidine‐2‐carboxylic acid to 2‐isocyanato‐1,3‐dinitroimidazolidine was carried out. Hydrolyses of 1,3‐dinitroimidazolidine‐2‐carbonyl azide and 2‐isocyanato‐1,3‐dinitroimidazolidine were studied. 1,3‐Dinitroimidazolidine‐2‐amine was captured as 1,3‐bis(1,3‐dinitroimidazolidin‐2‐yl)urea.
Enhancing resistance of Sesamum indicum against Alternaria sesami through Bacillus velezensisAR1
Authors: Bayisa Regassa Ayana
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Considerable yield loss and poor quality of sesame seed are attributed to fungal pathogens including Alternaria sesami. The use of agrochemicals and few biocontrol agents have been employed to at least minimize the problem. Thus, this research work was initiated to mitigate the impact of the disease using Bacillus velezensis AR1. A total of four treatments, A. sesami alone, sole fungicide, AR1, and alternate application of AR1 with dithianon (fungicide) were applied with six replications.

RESULTS

The results indicate that the sole and alternate application of AR1 with fungicide reduced disease severity to less than 10%. Plant physiological traits also improved due to the plant growth promoting AR1. Induced plant defense‐related biochemicals, i.e. total phenolic and flavonoid contents, were maximum in the plant subjected to AR1 and alternate application with a fungicide. In addition, the concentration of leaf amino acid proline was doubled due to AR1 compared to the control. The concentration of the plant growth‐regulating hormones gibberellic acid and indole acetic acid (IAA), as well as leaf chlorophyll, total nitrogen and phosphorus contents were also significantly increased by 203.86, 7.79, 0.31 mg gFW−1, 0.15 and 0.13%, respectively, due to the treatments. Furthermore, postharvest soil chitinase, cellulase and 1,3‐β‐glucanase activity results indicated the biological control and rapid soil colonization trends of AR1.

CONCLUSION

From these in vitro and in vivo experiment findings, B. velezensis AR1 can be recommended for biological control of plant fungal diseases for environmentally safe and quality crop production. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Internal migration in Northern Ireland: Are people becoming more stuck in place?
Authors: Shuttleworth Ian , Foley Brian , Champion Tony
Published: May 2020

The analysis uses the Northern Ireland Longitudinal Study to explore migration trends from 2001 to 2015. Its contributions are to extend this analysis to the period after the 2011 Census, to use administrative data to measure migration not as a transition between places but as (potentially) multiple events over the full 2001–2015 period over different distance bands, to add to the UK evidence base on internal migration trends, and to show how long‐term trends appear to override economic cyclical effects. The results show that internal migration rates over all distance bands fell from 2001 onward, continuing a decline in migration between Super Output Areas recorded since 1981, the first date for which there are data. This indicates that Northern Ireland, despite its unique political and social history, has not been immune to the long‐term migration decline observed elsewhere in Great Britain and other countries such as the United States. The only caveat to this is that when moves from Northern Ireland to other places are included in the long‐distance band of 50 km or more then long‐distance migration returns to near its 2001–2003 level by 2013. The analysis also shows that the same personal characteristics as elsewhere are related to different frequencies and distances of moving.
Ultrasonographic measurement of the thickness of cervical oesophagus layers in the reflux oesophagitis: Association with clinical findings
Authors: Yalcin Ahmet , Taydas Onur , Koc Ural , Aydinli Onur
Published: May 2020

Introduction

We aimed to evaluate the oesophagus of patients with reflux oesophagitis using ultrasonography and sought associations between the measurements of the mucosa, submucosa and muscularis propria, and endoscopic and clinical findings.

Methods

Thirty‐nine patients with endoscopically proven reflux oesophagitis and 19 patients with negative endoscopy for oesophagitis were included in the study. Two radiologists assessed the cervical oesophagus at the level of the thyroid gland. The data belonging to the ultrasonographic assessment of the patient group were compared to those of the controls.

Results

The muscular, submucosal and mucosal thicknesses of the cervical oesophagus measured by two observers significantly differed between the patient and control groups. The P‐values for mucosa, submucosa and muscularis propria were .02, <.001 and <.001, respectively for observer 1, .004, .001 and <.001, respectively for observer 2. The regression analysis showed that among the symptoms of heartburn, regurgitation and dysphagia, heartburn was independently associated with decreased mucosal and submucosal thicknesses of the oesophagus.

Discussion

Our findings confirmed that the layers of oesophagus in the gastroesophageal reflux disease were thicker compared to those of healthy people. We also found that heartburn was associated with decreased thicknesses of mucosal and submucosal layers in patients.
Stress tensor and gradient of hydrostatic pressure in the contact plane of axisymmetric bodies under normal and tangential loading
Authors: Willert Emanuel , Forsbach Fabian , Popov Valentin L.
Published: May 2020

The Hertzian contact theory, as well as most of the other classical theories of normal and tangential contact, provides displacements and the distribution of normal and tangential stress components directly in the contact surface. However, other components of the full stress tensor in the material may essentially influence the material behaviour in contact. Of particular interest are principal stresses and the equivalent von Mises stress, as well as the gradient of the hydrostatic pressure. For many engineering and biomechanical problems, it would be important to find these stress characteristics at least in the contact plane. In the present paper, we show that the complete stress state in the contact plane can be easily found for axially symmetric contacts under very general assumptions. We provide simple explicit equations for all stress components and the normal component of the gradient of hydrostatic pressure in the form of one‐dimensional integrals.
Online Technology in Knowledge Transfer
Authors: Burgos Daniel
Published: May 2020

The transfer of knowledge entails a challenge for any research activity. It drives the promise and results towards implemented and replicable facts. The transfer is frequently crystallised in contracts and patents, but not solely: scientific communication, general publication, property rights, or public R&D + innovation projects generated in the heat of research are also transference products and tools. This article lays out the benefits and weaknesses of these devices, underlining the participation of technology, especially online tech, when appropriate. We found that there are a variety of resources for transference, and that technology is only valid in some of them.
Reinforced Limit of a MEMS Model with Heterogeneous Dielectric Properties
Authors: Laurençot Philippe , Nik Katerina , Walker Christoph
Published: May 2020

A MEMS model with an insulating layer is considered and its reinforced limit is derived by means of a Gamma convergence approach when the thickness of the layer tends to zero. The limiting model inherits the dielectric properties of the insulating layer.
Soft Tissue Sepsis Places a Massive Burden on Regional and Tertiary Surgical Services in KZN Province South Africa
Authors: Ehlers Vincent , Kohler C. , Di Rago Natasha , Tefera Aida , Lutge Elizabeth , Clarke Damian
Published: May 2020

Background

Frequently, surgical intervention is needed to treat soft tissue sepsis (STS). Ideally, most STS should be managed at the lowest level of surgical care close to the patient's home and a well‐functioning surgical service will be able to deliver this safely and effectively. This study interrogates the burden of STS in the province of KwaZulu‐Natal and reviews at which level in the health system the operative management of STS is being dealt with.

Methods

This study describes the operations for soft tissue sepsis conducted at all regional and tertiary hospitals in KwaZulu‐Natal province for the period of 1 July to 31 December 2015. All procedures for soft tissue sepsis were identified for closer review.

Results

Between 1 June and 31 December 2015, a total 6302 soft tissue‐related procedures were performed in the regional and tertiary hospitals of KZN. The breakdown by anatomical region was as follows, 618 (9.8%) head and neck surgeries, 895 (14.2%) chest and back, 277 (4.4%) abdominal wall, 818 (13%) pelvis/perineal/buttock and 3070 (48.7%) extremity‐related surgeries. There were a further 815 (12.9%) soft tissue‐related procedures where the anatomical region was unspecified. Of the soft tissue procedures, 3943 (62.6%) were for the management of soft tissue sepsis. The anatomical regions involved included 316 (8%) head and neck, 485 (12.3%) chest and back, 194 (4.9%) abdominal wall, 589 (14.9%) pelvic, perineal and buttock, 2054 (52.1%) extremity and 365 unspecified operations. Peri‐anal sepsis contributed 315 (8%), breast sepsis contributed to 372 (9.4%) of all soft tissue sepsis and amputations of extremities 658 (16.7%) of septic soft tissue procedures.

Conclusion

There is a significant burden of soft tissue sepsis requiring surgical treatment each month at regional and tertiary hospitals in KZN. This is made up of breast sepsis, peri‐anal sepsis and diabetic foot sepsis. This burden is being managed at an inappropriate level of care.