bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro RNAs upregulated in Vitiligo skin play an important role in its aetiopathogenesis by altering TRP1 expression and keratinocyte-melanocytes cross-talk
Authors: Vaish Utpreksha , Kumar Avinash A. , Varshney Swati , Ghosh Shreya , Sengupta Shantanu , Sood Chandni , Kar Hemanta K. , Sharma Pankaj , Natarajan Vivek T. , Gokhale Rajesh S. , Rani Rajni
Published: July 2019

Translation of genes is regulated by many factors including microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNA profiling of lesional and non-lesional epidermal RNA from 18 vitiligo patients revealed significant upregulation of 29 miRNAs in the lesional epidermis, of which 6 miRNAs were transfected in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) to study their downstream effects using quantitative proteomics. Many proteins involved in oxidative stress, Vesicle trafficking, Cellular apoptosis, Mitochondrial proteins and Keratins were regulated after miRNA transfections in the keratinocytes. However, tyrosinase related protein-1 (TRP1/TYRP1), a melanogenesis protein, was consistently downregulated in NHEKs by all the six miRNAs tested, which was quite intriguing. TRP1 was also downregulated in lesional epidermis compared with non-lesional epidermis. Since melanocytes synthesize and transfer melanosomes to the surrounding keratinocytes, we hypothesized that downregulation of TRP1 in NHEKs may have a role in melanosome transfer, which was confirmed by our co-culture experiments. Downregulation of TRP1 in keratinocytes negatively affected the melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes resulting in melanin accumulation which may be leading to melanin induced cytotoxicity in melanocytes. Regulation of key processes involved in aetiopathogenesis of vitiligo along with TRP1 suggests that miRNAs act in an integrated manner which may be detrimental for the loss of melanocytes in vitiligo.
New solution of the partial differential equation of the grain groove profile problem in the case of evaporation/condensation
Authors: Hamieh Tayssir , Khatir Zoubir , Ibrahim Ali
Published: July 2019

This paper constitutes a new contribution on the resolution of Mullins problem in the case of the evaporation-condensation and gives an exact and explicit solution of the second partial differential equation relative to the geometric profile of the grain boundary grooving. New analytical expressions of the solution, the groove profile, the derivative and the groove deep were obtained:$$\begin{array}{c}y{\boldsymbol{(}}x{\boldsymbol{,}}t{\boldsymbol{)}}{\boldsymbol{=}}{\boldsymbol{-}}\,\sqrt{\pi Ct}\,sin\,\theta \,{\boldsymbol{[}}erfc{\boldsymbol{(}}\frac{x}{{\bf{2}}\sqrt{Ct}}{\boldsymbol{)}}{\boldsymbol{+}}{\boldsymbol{\sum }}_{n{\boldsymbol{=}}{\bf{1}}}^{\infty }\,\frac{{\boldsymbol{(}}{\bf{2}}n{\boldsymbol{)}}{\boldsymbol{!}}}{{{\boldsymbol{(}}n{\boldsymbol{!}}{\boldsymbol{)}}}^{{\bf{2}}}{{\bf{2}}}^{{\bf{2}}n}\,\sqrt{{\bf{3}}n}}\,si{n}^{{\bf{2}}n}\theta \,{\boldsymbol{(}}erfc{\boldsymbol{(}}\frac{x\sqrt{{\bf{3}}n}}{{\bf{2}}\sqrt{ct}}{\boldsymbol{)}}{\boldsymbol{)}}{\boldsymbol{]}}\\ y{\boldsymbol{{\prime} }}{\boldsymbol{(}}x{\boldsymbol{,}}t{\boldsymbol{)}}{\boldsymbol{=}}{\boldsymbol{+}}\,\frac{\sin \,\theta }{\sqrt{{e}^{{x}^{{\bf{2}}}{\boldsymbol{/}}{\boldsymbol{(}}{\bf{2}}ct{\boldsymbol{)}}}{\boldsymbol{-}}si{n}^{{\bf{2}}}\theta }}\,{\rm{and}}\,{\varepsilon }_{{\bf{0}}}{\boldsymbol{(}}\theta {\boldsymbol{)}}{\boldsymbol{=}}\sqrt{\pi ct}\,\sin \,\theta \,{\boldsymbol{[}}1{\boldsymbol{+}}{\boldsymbol{\sum }}_{n{\boldsymbol{=}}1}^{\infty }\frac{{\boldsymbol{(}}{\bf{2}}n{\boldsymbol{)}}{\boldsymbol{!}}}{{{\boldsymbol{(}}n{\boldsymbol{!}}{\boldsymbol{)}}}^{{\bf{2}}}{{\bf{2}}}^{2n}\sqrt{3n}}si{n}^{2n}\theta {\boldsymbol{]}}\end{array}$$

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It was proved that the found solution gave more accurate results relative to those obtained by Mullins that neglected the first derivative (|y′| ≪ 1) relative to 1. The results obtained by this new solution can be advantageously used to give more precise solution of the general problem when combining the two phenomena relative to the evaporation-condensation and the surface diffusion in thin polycrystalline films.
A longitudinal study on latent TB infection screening and its association with TB incidence in HIV patients
Authors: Wong Ngai Sze , Leung Chi Chiu , Chan Kenny Chi Wai , Chan Wai Kit , Lin Ada Wai Chi , Lee Shui Shan
Published: July 2019

Latent TB infection (LTBI) in HIV patients, its treatment, and immunological recovery following highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) could interact and impact TB disease progression. We aim to examine the factors associated with LTBI and TB disease development among HIV patients. Longitudinal clinical and laboratory data were accessed from the largest HIV specialist clinic in Hong Kong, where HAART and yearly LTBI screening are routinely provided for HIV patients. Between 2002 and mid-2017, among 2079 HIV patients with 14119 person-years (PY) of follow-up, 32% of LTBI screened patients (n = 1740) were tested positive. The overall TB incidence was 1.26/100 PY from HIV diagnosis to HAART initiation, falling to 0.37/100 PY. A lower risk of TB disease progression was associated with local residence, Chinese ethnicity, negative baseline LTBI result, being on HAART, LTBI treatment, higher baseline CD4 and CD4/CD8 ratio. A positive test at baseline, but not subsequent testing results, was significantly associated with TB disease development. Baseline LTBI screening is an important strategy for identifying HIV patients at risk of TB disease progression. Routine repeat LTBI screening on an annual basis might not give additional benefits to patients on HAART with good immunological responses. Such practice should require re-evaluation.
Direct Synthesis of cubic shaped Ag2S on Ni mesh as Binder-free Electrodes for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Arulraj Arunachalam , Ilayaraja N. , Rajeshkumar V. , Ramesh M.
Published: July 2019

A facile approach of chemical bath deposition was proposed to fabricate direct synthesis of silver sulphide (Ag2S) on nickel (Ni) mesh without involvement for binders for supercapacitor electrodes. The phase purity, structure, composition, morphology, microstructure of the as-fabricated Ag2S electrode was validated from its corresponding comprehensive characterization tools. The electrochemical characteristics of the Ag2S electrodes were evaluated by recording the electrochemical measurements such as cyclic voltammetry and charge/discharge profile in a three electrode configuration system. Ag2S employed as working electrode demonstrates notable faradaic behaviour including high reversible specific capacitance value of 179 C/g at a constant charge/discharge current density of 1 A/g with high cyclic stability which is relatively good as compared with other sulphide based materials. The experimental results ensure fabricated binder-free Ag2S electrodes exhibits better electrochemical performance and suitable for potential electrodes in electrochemical energy storage applications.
Analytical Study of Fuel Switching from Heavy Fuel Oil to Natural Gas in clay brick factories at Arab Abu Saed, Greater Cairo
Authors: Higazy Mamdouh , Essa Khaled S. M. , Mubarak Fawzia , El-Sayed El-Sayed M. , Sallam Abdelsattar M. , Talaat Mona S.
Published: July 2019

Arab Abu Saed area in Giza governorate, south to Cairo contains more than 228 clay brick kilns represent the largest cluster of brickworks in Egypt. Burning of Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) in such kilns is the main source of air pollution in the surrounding locations. In this study, investigation of switching the fuel used in brick kilns from (HFO) to Natural Gas (NG) is carried out and the pollution loads are assessed in both cases. In addition, two Gaussian dispersion plume models are employed to estimate the concentration of primary pollutants; PM10, SO2, and NO2 at seven locations in the vicinity of Arab Abu Saed to determine the most adversely affected locations. Statistical analysis is applied to evaluate the correlation and conformity of the results of both models. Results show that using of NG leads to a significant reduction of pollution loads of PM10, SO2 and NO2 reaches 96%, 72%, and 24% respectively. In addition, the reduction of naturally occurring radionuclides in air is analyzed. Activity concentrations of Ra-226, Th-232 and K-40 in Bq/l for HFO were measured using HPGe detector for six HFO samples. Exposure due to air submersion of naturally occurring radionuclides in the study area leads to annual equivalent dose ranged between 2.16 mSv/y (received by Uterus) and 14 mSv/y (received by skin), and average effective dose 2.65 mSv/y which represent valuable exposure.
The nutritive value of black soldier fly larvae reared on common organic waste streams in Kenya
Authors: Shumo Marwa , Osuga Isaac M. , Khamis Fathiya M. , Tanga Chrysantus M. , Fiaboe Komi K. M. , Subramanian Sevgan , Ekesi Sunday , van Huis Arnold , Borgemeister Christian
Published: July 2019

In Africa, livestock production currently accounts for about 30% of the gross value of agricultural production. However, production is struggling to keep up with the demands of expanding human populations, the rise in urbanization and the associated shifts in diet habits. High costs of feed prevent the livestock sector from thriving and to meet the rising demand. Insects have been identified as potential alternatives to the conventionally used protein sources in livestock feed due to their rich nutrients content and the fact that they can be reared on organic side streams. Substrates derived from organic by-products are suitable for industrial large-scale production of insect meal. Thus, a holistic comparison of the nutritive value of Black Soldier Fly larvae (BSFL) reared on three different organic substrates, i.e. chicken manure (CM), brewers’ spent grain (SG) and kitchen waste (KW), was conducted. BSFL samples reared on every substrate were collected for chemical analysis after the feeding process. Five-hundred (500) neonatal BSFL were placed in 23 × 15 cm metallic trays on the respective substrates for a period of 3–4 weeks at 28 ± 2 °C and 65 ± 5% relative humidity. The larvae were harvested when the prepupal stage was reached using a 5 mm mesh size sieve. A sample of 200 grams prepupae was taken from each replicate and pooled for every substrate and then frozen at −20 °C for chemical analysis. Samples of BSFL and substrates were analyzed for dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extracts (EE), ash, acid detergent fibre (ADF), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), amino acids (AA), fatty acids (FA), vitamins, flavonoids, minerals and aflatoxins. The data were then subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using general linear model procedure. BSFL differed in terms of nutrient composition depending on the organic substrates they were reared on. CP, EE, minerals, amino acids, ADF and NDF but not vitamins were affected by the different rearing substrates. BSFL fed on different substrates exhibited different accumulation patterns of minerals, with CM resulting in the largest turnover of minerals. Low concentrations of heavy metals (cadmium and lead) were detected in the BSFL, but no traces of aflatoxins were found. In conclusion, it is possible to take advantage of the readily available organic waste streams in Kenya to produce nutrient-rich BSFL-derived feed.
Genotype-phenotype association analysis identifies the role of α globin genes in modulating disease severity of β thalassaemia intermedia in Sri Lanka
Authors: Perera Shiromi , Allen Angela , Silva Ishari , Hapugoda Menaka , Wickramarathne M. Nirmali , Wijesiriwardena Indira , Allen Stephen , Rees David , Efremov Dimitar G. , Fisher Christopher A. , Weatherall David J. , Premawardhena Anuja
Published: July 2019

β thalassaemia intermedia (βTI) are a heterogeneous group of disorders known to be extremely phenotypically diverse. This group is more complex to manage as no definitive treatment guidelines exist unlike for β thalassaemia major (βTM). There are only a few studies looking at genotype phenotype associations of βTI outside the Mediterranean region. The reasons for the diverse clinical phenotype in βTI are unknown. We categorized fifty Sri Lankan patients diagnosed with βTI as mild, moderate or severe according to published criteria. DNA samples were genotyped for β thalassaemia mutations, α globin genotype and copy number and known genetic modifiers of haemoglobin F production. There were 26/50 (52.0%) in mild group and 12/50 (24.0%) each in moderate and sever categories. 18/26 (69.2%) classified as mild were β heterozygotes and 17/18 (94.4%) had excess α globin genes. 11/12 (91.6%) classified as moderate were β heterozygotes and 8/11 (72.2%) had excess α globin genes. In contrast, 8/12 (66.7%) classified as severe were β homozygotes and 7/8(87.5%) had α globin gene deletions. In Sri Lanka, co-inheritance of either excess α globin genes in β thalassaemia heterozygotes or α globin gene deletions in β thalassaemia homozygotes is a significant factor in modulating disease severity.
Selective targeting of DC-SIGN by controlling the oligomannose pattern on a polyproline tetra-helix macrocycle scaffold
Authors: Wen Hsin-Chuan , Lin Cin-Hao , Huang Jen-Sheng , Tsai Chia-Lung , Chen Ting-Feng , Wang Sheng-Kai
Published: July 2019

A matching oligomannose arrangement provides significant selectivity toward DC-SIGN for anti-HIV agents development.
Halogen-bond mediated efficient storage of extremely volatile perfluoroiodides in ionic liquids
Authors: Gaspard Delphine , Seddon Kenneth R. , Robertson Peter K. J. , Gunaratne H. Q. Nimal
Published: July 2019

Utilising the non-volatility of ionic liquids, we demonstrate here that perfluoroidides can be stored with the aid of halogen bonding and released controllably from an ionic liquid matrix.
Plasma-assisted catalytic formation of ammonia in N2–H2plasma on a tungsten surface
Authors: Ben Yaala Marwa , Saeedi Arsalan , Scherrer Dan-Felix , Moser Lucas , Steiner Roland , Zutter Marco , Oberkofler Martin , De Temmerman Gregory , Marot Laurent , Meyer Ernst
Published: July 2019

Ammonia synthesis from hydrogen and nitrogen gases by low-temperature radio frequency plasma catalysis.
[(η3-Bi3)2(IrCO)6(μ4-Bi)3]3−: a new archetype of a 15-vertex deltahedral hybrid from Bixx−-coordination aggregation of cationic [IrCO]+ units
Authors: Li Zhenyu , Liu Caiping , Wu Jie , Lin Zian , Xu Li
Published: July 2019

The first Zintl-deltahedral metal carbonyl hybrid [(η3-Bi3)2(IrCO)6(μ4-Bi)3]3− was obtained by a new synthetic methodology, namely the Bixx−-coordination aggregation of [Ir(CO)]+ to trigonal prismatic [Ir(CO)]66+.
Curcumin-loaded Pickering emulsion stabilized by insoluble complexes involving ovotransferrin–gallic acid conjugates and carboxymethyldextran
Authors: Wei Zihao , Zhang Hongwei , Huang Qingrong
Published: July 2019

The present work aimed to fabricate antioxidant particle-stabilized Pickering emulsions with outstanding protection of encapsulated nutraceuticals.
Near-infrared excited luminescence and in vitro imaging of HeLa cells by using Mn2+ enhanced Tb3+ and Yb3+ cooperative upconversion in NaYF4 nanocrystals
Authors: Prorok Katarzyna , Olk Michał , Skowicki Michał , Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Kotulska Agata , Lipiński Tomasz , Bednarkiewicz Artur
Published: July 2019

To improve the Tb3+ upconversion emission intensity, a new approach, i.e. Mn2+ co-doping, has been proposed and verified in this work. The significant enhancement of the emission intensity as a result of the introduction of Mn2+ ions was observed.
Bilayer chlorophyll derivatives as efficient hole-transporting layers for perovskite solar cells
Authors: Li Na , Dall’Agnese Chunxiang , Zhao Wenjie , Duan Shengnan , Chen Gang , Sasaki Shin-ichi , Tamiaki Hitoshi , Sanehira Yoshitaka , Miyasaka Tsutomu , Wang Xiao-Feng
Published: July 2019

Bilayer chlorophyll derivatives are examined as a hole-transporting layer for perovskite solar cells, leading to enhancement in device performance and stability.
Modulating and opposite actions of two aqueous extracts prepared fromCinnamomum cassiaL. bark andQuercus ilexL. on the gastrointestinal tract in rats
Authors: Sebai Hichem , Rtibi Kaïs , Selmi Slimen , Jridi Mourad , Balti Rafik , Marzouki Lamjed
Published: July 2019

Cinnamon bark and evergreen oak acorns, natural sources of functional ingredients, are effective for those suffering from diarrhea, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome.
Retracted Article: Knockdown of TMPRSS11D inhibits the proliferation, migration and invasion of cervical cancer cells
Authors: Yan Kun , Hu Chunyan , Liu Chen , Chu Guanghua , Wang Xinru , Ma Shuyun , Li Long
Published: July 2019

TMPRSS11D is a member of the type II transmembrane serine proteases (TTSPs) family that is implicated in the development and progression of several cancers.
Phase transition and dewetting of a 5CB liquid crystal thin film on a topographically patterned substrate
Authors: Dhara Palash , Mukherjee Rabibrata
Published: July 2019

Thermally induced nematic to isotropic (N–I) phase transition and dewetting of 5CB liquid crystal thin films on flat and topographically patterned substrates.
Synthesis of Sn/Ag–Sn nanoparticles via room temperature galvanic reaction and diffusion
Authors: Saw Min Jia , Nguyen Mai Thanh , Zhu Shilei , Wang Yongming , Yonezawa Tetsu
Published: July 2019

Coating of Ag–Sn intermetallic compound on Sn nanoparticles at room temperature.
Tremella-like NiO microspheres embedded with fish-scale-like polypyrrole for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitor
Authors: Han Kehui , Liu Yan , Huang Hui , Gong Qinghua , Zhang Zhiliang , Zhou Guowei
Published: July 2019

Tremella-like NiO/fish-scale-like PPy was fabricated via a solvothermal process coupled with in situ polymerization. The NiO/PPy-6//AC asymmetric supercapacitor can achieve a high specific capacitance and maintain a specific capacitance at 88.2% after 10 000 cycles.
Secondary structure of end group functionalized oligomeric-l-lysines: investigations of solvent and structure dependent helicity
Authors: Canalp Merve Basak , Meister Annette , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: July 2019

Fibrillation of supramolecular building blocks represents an important model system for complex proteins and peptides, such as amyloidogenic proteins, displaying aggregation and subsequent collapse of their biological functions.
Nitrogen self-doped activated carbonsviathe direct activation ofSamanea samanleaves for high energy density supercapacitors
Authors: Sattayarut Vichuda , Wanchaem Thanthamrong , Ukkakimapan Pundita , Yordsri Visittapong , Dulyaseree Paweena , Phonyiem Mayuree , Obata Michiko , Fujishige Masatsugu , Takeuchi Kenji , Wongwiriyapan Winadda , Endo Morinobu
Published: July 2019

Nitrogen self-doped activated carbons with high surface area obtainedviathe direct activation ofSamanea samanleaves for high energy density supercapacitors.
Cobalt, nickel and copper complexes with glycinamide: structural insights and magnetic properties
Authors: Vušak Darko , Smrečki Neven , Prugovečki Biserka , Đilović Ivica , Kirasić Inka , Žilić Dijana , Muratović Senada , Matković-Čalogović Dubravka
Published: July 2019

We report the crystal structures and magnetic properties of nine mononuclear complexes and one 1D coordination polymer containing CuII/CuI ions.
Synthesis of fluorescent polycarbonates with highly twisted N,N-bis(dialkylamino)anthracene AIE luminogens in the main chain
Authors: Sairi Amir Sharidan , Kuwahara Kohei , Sasaki Shunsuke , Suzuki Satoshi , Igawa Kazunobu , Tokita Masatoshi , Ando Shinji , Morokuma Keiji , Suenobu Tomoyoshi , Konishi Gen-ichi
Published: July 2019

Fluorescent polycarbonates were synthesized by embedding AIE-active diol monomers with simple structures in the polymer chain.
The synergistic effect of carbon coating and CNTs compositing on the hard carbon anode for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Liu Chang , Chu Jiaqi , Liu Yang , Lyu Yingchun , Guo Bingkun
Published: July 2019

The synergistic effect of surface carbon coating and CNT compositing on mesoporous hard carbon was investigated. The sample showed excellent cyclic and rate performances, suggesting a highly efficient and easy scale-up approach to elevate hard carbons as anodes for SIBs.
The ubiquitous cross-coupling catalyst system ‘Pd(OAc)2’/2PPh3 forms a unique dinuclear PdI complex: an important entry point into catalytically competent cyclic Pd3 clusters
Authors: Scott Neil W. J. , Ford Mark J. , Schotes Christoph , Parker Rachel R. , Whitwood Adrian C. , Fairlamb Ian J. S.
Published: July 2019

Pd3-type clusters generated from Pd(OAc)2/nPPh3, formed via a dinuclear Pd(i) species, exhibit high activity in Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling.
Methanesulfonic acid-based electrode-decoupled vanadium–cerium redox flow battery exhibits significantly improved capacity and cycle life
Authors: Sankarasubramanian Shrihari , Zhang Yunzhu , Ramani Vijay
Published: July 2019

V–Ce RFBs (∼100% CE and ∼70% EE over 100 cycles) using a CH3SO3H-based electrolyte and a AEM separator shows 30% higher capacity and 0.024% capacity fade/cyclevs.5% capacity fade/cycle for H2SO4supported V–Ce ED-RFBs.
A branched cellulose-reinforced composite polymer electrolyte with upgraded ionic conductivity for anode stabilized solid-state Li metal batteries
Authors: Wu Hailong , Wang Jiali , Zhao Yu , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Xu Ling , Liu Hao , Cui Yixiu , Cui Yanhua , Li Chilin
Published: July 2019

Branched cellulose filler is used to reinforce the PEO based polymer electrolyte, resulting in the upgraded ionic conductivity and anode stability for solid-state Li metal batteries.
Local nanostructures enhanced the thermoelectric performance of n-type PbTe
Authors: Xiang Bo , Liu Jiaqin , Yan Jian , Xia Minggang , Zhang Qi , Chen Lingxue , Li Jiayong , Tan Xian Yi , Yan Qingyu , Wu Yucheng
Published: July 2019

Construction of local nanostructures shins new light on separately modulate electric and thermal transport toward high thermoelectric performance.
Multifunctional quaternized carbon dots with enhanced biofilm penetration and eradication efficiencies
Authors: Ran Huan-Huan , Cheng Xiaotong , Bao Yan-Wen , Hua Xian-Wu , Gao Ge , Zhang Xiaodong , Jiang Yao-Wen , Zhu Ya-Xuan , Wu Fu-Gen
Published: July 2019

Ultrasmall quaternized CDs are used to visualize Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial biofilms, and selectively eradicate and inhibit Gram-positive bacterial biofilms.
Further understanding of the mechanisms of electrochromic devices with variable infrared emissivity based on polyaniline conducting polymers
Authors: Zhang Leipeng , Wang Bo , Li Xiaobai , Xu Gaoping , Dou Shuliang , Zhang Xiang , Chen Xi , Zhao Jiupeng , Zhang Ke , Li Yao
Published: July 2019

Adaptive infrared (IR) electrochromic devices driven by electrical energy have considerable potential use in intelligent IR thermal management application in the future.
Magnetoelectric bistability of molecular ferroic solids
Authors: Guan Ying-Shi , Hu Yong , Li Changning , Ren Shenqiang
Published: July 2019

Here we report a new magnetoelectric coupling approach through organic multiferroic composites, composed of ferroelectric molecular radical solids.
Highly stretchable electrochromic hydrogels for use in wearable electronic devices
Authors: Yang Guojian , Ding Jiale , Yang Baige , Wang Xiaojun , Gu Chang , Guan Dehui , Yu Yang , Zhang Yu-Mo , Zhang Sean Xiao-An
Published: July 2019

An ideal stretchable electrochromic (EC) device applied for wearable display is demonstrated and constructed by combining an intrinsically stretchable EC hydrogel and new asymmetric stretchable electrodes.
Revealing resonance effects and intramolecular dipole interactions in the positional isomers of benzonitrile-core thermally activated delayed fluorescence materials
Authors: Kukhta Nadzeya A. , Higginbotham Heather F. , Matulaitis Tomas , Danos Andrew , Bismillah Aisha N. , Haase Nils , Etherington Marc K. , Yufit Dmitry S. , McGonigal Paul R. , Gražulevičius Juozas Vidas , Monkman Andrew P.
Published: July 2019

Rather than donor–acceptor dihedral angles, the TADF performance of DMAC–BZN positional isomers is instead controlled by differences in acceptor strength arising from π-system electron density – along with a through-space dipole interaction.
Highly-soluble multi-alkylated polymer semiconductors and applications in high-performance field-effect transistors
Authors: Chen Zhihui , Huang Jianyao , Gao Dong , Yang Jie , Zhang Weifeng , Ju Huanxin , Yu Gui
Published: July 2019

A multi-alkylation strategy was proposed to tune the microstructure and solubility of diketopyrrolopyrrole-based polymer semiconductors with high mobilities.
Acoustic Breathiness Index for the Japanese-Speaking Population: Validation Study and Exploration of Affecting Factors
Authors: Hosokawa Kiyohito , von Latoszek Ben Barsties , Ferrer-Riesgo Carlos Ariel , Iwahashi Toshihiko , Iwahashi Mio , Iwaki Shinobu , Kato Chieri , Yoshida Misao , Umatani Masanori , Miyauchi Akira , Matsushiro Naoki , Inohara Hidenori , Ogawa Makoto , Maryn Youri
Published: July 2019

Objectives

The purposes of this study were to validate the Acoustic Breathiness Index (ABI) for the Japanese-speaking population and to determine whether it is independent of factors such as sex, age, and perceptual ratings of roughness.

Method

First, the concurrent validity of the ABI for perceptual breathiness was evaluated on the concatenations of continuous speech and sustained vowels from 288 patients with varying degrees of dysphonia. The diagnostic accuracy was examined on 343 samples with 55 additional normophonic speakers. Second, the validity related to responsiveness-to-change was estimated on 222 samples obtained before and after interventions for 111 voice-disordered patients. Third, the relationships between the ABI and other variables (i.e., perceptual hoarseness/breathiness/roughness, sex, and age) were explored using bivariate and multivariate analyses for the 288 patients.

Results

First, the concurrent validity and the responsiveness-to-change validity were confirmed by strong correlation coefficients of .890 and .878, respectively. Second, the receiver operating characteristic analysis showed the area under the curve to be 0.939, indicating excellent accuracy. The ABI of 3.44 exhibited a sensitivity of 76.3% and a specificity of 94.1%. Third, although bivariate analyses revealed a weak relationship between ABI and roughness and an ABI difference by age, multiple regression analyses showed a strong relation between only ABI and breathiness, without a meaningful contribution from roughness, sex, and age factors.

Conclusion

The study confirmed that the ABI is an accurate and specific tool to estimate breathiness levels in the Japanese-speaking population and neither roughness, sex, nor age significantly affects the ABI.
Communication and Feeding/Swallowing Disorders in 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: A Primer for the Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist
Authors: Baylis Adriane L. , Madhoun Lauren L.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Communication disorders are a hallmark feature of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS). Complex feeding and swallowing difficulties are also frequently present in children with this syndrome. Every speech subsystem may be affected in 22q11DS, leading to a variety of speech sound, motor speech, resonance, and/or voice disorders. Language delays and persisting social/pragmatic deficits are also common.

Conclusion

The speech-language pathologist is key to both the diagnosis and treatment of speech-language difficulties and feeding/swallowing disorders in children with 22q11DS, from birth through adulthood. This tutorial provides a current overview of communication and feeding/swallowing disorders associated with 22q11DS and strategies for assessment and treatment. The role of the pediatric speech-language pathologist in the management of children with this syndrome across a variety of settings is discussed.
Application of renewable energy resources in a microgrid power system
Authors: Adefarati Temitope , Bansal Ramesh C.
Published: July 2019

In order to meet the power prerequisites of their citizens, many countries are heavily dependent on the utilization of fossil fuels for power generation. This has reduced the natural reserve of fossil fuels and caused a large percentage of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). It is imperative to harness energy from renewable energy resources (RERs) as a measure to supplement the authors’ daily energy needs from the conventional units. The proposed microgrid system deals with the incorporation of the wind turbine generator (WTG), diesel generator, hydro turbine, photovoltaic and battery storage system for optimisation of net present cost (NPC), annualised cost of the system (ACS), GHG, fuel cost, operating costs and cost of energy (COE) by using hybrid optimisation model for electric renewables using HOMER software. The system is designed with the energy demand of 618 kWh/day at a peak load of 72.5 kW. The values of NPC, COE, ACS and fuel consumption obtained in the optimised configuration are $942,654/yr, $ 127,415, $0.327/kWh and 51,236 L/yr. The simulation results obtained from the optimised scenario reveal that the utilisation of RERs has been found to be a cost effective means to supply remote areas.
Multi‐source data‐based method for retrieval of soil moisture in grassland
Authors: Huang Pingping , Su Ritu , Xu Wei , Tan Weixian , Yang Wen
Published: July 2019

Taking into account the respective advantages of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data and optical data in obtaining object information, this article presents a method for retrieval of soil moisture in grassland based on multi‐source data (SAR data, optical data and measured data). First of all, optical data is used to classify the grassland area, and then the SAR data is used to obtain the backscattering coefficient of the grassland area. Finally, the soil moisture under the vegetation cover is obtained through the water‐cloud model and the microwave backscatter model. The soil moisture in grassland is retrieved and the retrieval results are compared and validated using measured data. The results showed that the suggested method has better classification precision for complex terrain with densely overlapping scattering mechanisms. This method also uses the measured data to correct the soil moisture, which greatly improves the precision of the results.
Design and implementation of MIMO radar real‐time imaging system based on multicore DSP
Authors: Mei Hongyan , Tian Weiming , Huo Ruiguo , Wang Jingyang
Published: July 2019

Multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) imaging radar is a new kind of new imaging radar in recent years. It can achieve faster data acquisition speed than the traditional ground‐based SAR due to the ability to get a large number of multi‐channel data in a short period of time. However, traditional single‐core digital signal processors (DSPs) have limited space and ability to deal with such large amount of data. To solve this problem, a real‐time image processing software architecture for MIMO imaging radar algorithm is designed and carried out based on TMS320C6678 DSP of Texas Instruments (TI), which is the highest‐performance fixed/floating‐point DSP based on TI's KeyStone multicore architecture. The efficient imaging algorithms mapping from Matlab to DSP is realised, with efficient task allocation, resource reuse of echo data, and processing variable, and using the method of multicore parallel processing.
Metallicity, temperature, and gravity scales of M subdwarfs,
Authors: Lodieu N. , Allard F. , Rodrigo C. , Pavlenko Y. , Burgasser A. , Lyubchik Y. , Kaminsky B. , Homeier D.
Published: July 2019

Aims. The aim of the project is to define metallicity/gravity/temperature scales for different spectral types of metal-poor M dwarfs.

Methods. We obtained intermediate-resolution ultraviolet (R ∼ 3300), optical (R ∼ 5400), and near-infrared (R ∼ 3900) spectra of 43 M subdwarfs (sdM), extreme subdwarfs (esdM), and ultra-subdwarfs (usdM) with the X-shooter spectrograph on the European Southern Observatory Very Large Telescope. We compared our atlas of spectra to the latest BT-Settl synthetic spectral energy distribution over a wide range of metallicities, gravities, and effective temperatures to infer the physical properties for the whole M dwarf sequence (M0–M9.5) at sub-solar metallicities and constrain the latest atmospheric models.

Results. The BT-Settl models accurately reproduce the observed spectra across the 450–2500 nm wavelength range except for a few regions. We find that the best fits are obtained for gravities of log (g) = 5.0–5.5 for the three metal classes. We infer metallicities of [Fe/H] = −0.5, −1.5, and −2.0 ± 0.5 dex and effective temperatures of 3700–2600 K, 3800–2900 K, and 3700–2900 K for subdwarfs, extreme subdwarfs, and ultra-subdwarfs, respectively. Metal-poor M dwarfs tend to be warmer by about 200 ± 100 K and exhibit higher gravity than their solar-metallicity counterparts. We derive abundances of several elements (Fe, Na, K, Ca, Ti) for our sample but cannot describe their atmospheres with a single metallicity parameter. Our metallicity scale expands the current scales available for mildly metal-poor planet-host low-mass stars. Our compendium of moderate-resolution spectra covering the 0.45–2.5 micron range represents an important resource for large-scale surveys and space missions to come.
Three-Dimensional Optimal Spectral Extraction (TDOSE) from integral field spectroscopy
Authors: Schmidt K. B. , Wisotzki L. , Urrutia T. , Kerutt J. , Krajnović D. , Herenz E. C. , Saust R. , Contini T. , Epinat B. , Inami H. , Maseda M. V.
Published: July 2019

The amount of integral field spectrograph (IFS) data has grown considerably over the last few decades. The demand for tools to analyze such data is therefore bigger now than ever. We present a flexible Python tool for Three-Dimensional Optimal Spectral Extraction (TDOSE) from IFS data cubes. TDOSE works on any three-dimensional data cube and bases the spectral extractions on morphological reference image models. By default, these models are generated and composed of multiple multivariate Gaussian components, but can also be constructed with independent modeling tools and be provided as input to TDOSE. In each wavelength layer of the IFS data cube, TDOSE simultaneously optimizes all sources in the morphological model to minimize the difference between the scaled model components and the IFS data. The flux optimization produces individual data cubes containing the scaled three-dimensional source models. This allows the efficient de-blending of flux in both the spatial and spectral dimensions of the IFS data cubes, and extraction of the corresponding one-dimensional spectra. TDOSE implicitly requires an assumption about the two-dimensional light distribution. We describe how the flexibility of TDOSE can be used to mitigate and correct for deviations from the input distribution. Furthermore, we present an example of how the three-dimensional source models generated by TDOSE can be used to improve two-dimensional maps of physical parameters like velocity, metallicity, or star formation rate when flux contamination is a problem. By extracting TDOSE spectra of ∼150 [OII] emitters from the MUSE-Wide survey we show that the median increase in line flux is ∼5% when using multi-component models as opposed to single-component models. However, the increase in recovered line emission in individual cases can be as much as 50%. Comparing the TDOSE model-based extractions of the MUSE-Wide [OII] emitters with aperture spectra, the TDOSE spectra provides a median flux (S/N) increase of 9% (14%). Hence, TDOSE spectra optimize the S/N while still being able to recover the total emitted flux.
Application of the two-parameter single shooting method for natural vibration analysis of Euler-Bernoulli beams
Authors: Hołubowski Ryszard
Published: July 2019

The paper presents a new method of calculating the natural frequencies and modes of Euler-Bernoulli beams. The formulated algorithm is based on the fourth order homogeneous ordinary differential equation of motion that allows different support conditions to be considered. The idea of the method is to replace a two-point boundary value problem with an initial value problem. Distinct from the classic approach, where only one unknown parameter is considered, the method enables problems with two parameters to be solved. The proposed two-parameter version of the single shooting method is verified on the example of a non-prismatic simply supported beam and a prismatic propped cantilever beam resting on Winkler foundation and loaded by axial force. The obtained results confirm the correctness and high effectiveness of the presented method.
Dynamic problems in the operation of overresonant vibrating screens
Authors: Matachowski Filip , Badura Sławomir
Published: July 2019

The paper presents the results of the numerical analysis of the stress state (FEM) which is created in the construction elements of the PZ3R vibrating screen in normal operation conditions. These results where compared to and verified by tensometric, displacement and acceleration measurements. The results of strength analyses indicated the directions of possible modifications of structural elements of the screen, and also confirmed the desirability of their implementation, but in strictly specified order.
Dynamic performance of a vehicular bridge with lightweight FRP composite structural elements
Authors: Siwowski Tomasz , Rajchel Mateusz
Published: July 2019

The lightweight nature and low stiffness of fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) structures combined with low material damping may lead to excessive structural vibration and may increase the dynamic amplification of deformations and stresses in FRP bridge structures. The paper provides a short review on dynamic characterization of existing vehicular bridge superstructures madeof FRP structural components. Against the backdrop of a worldwide review the paper presents a field study on the dynamic characteristics of the hybrid FRP – concrete bridge superstructure recently built in Poland. The dynamic amplification factor, the first natural frequencyand the damping ratio were experimentally determined in static and dynamic load tests and compared with the relevant codes and requirements. The paper concludes by summarizing challenges related to structural dynamics of bridge superstructures with FRP structural components.
Rolling paths design assisted by target-temperature driven intelligent FE simulation of radial-axial ring rolling
Authors: Li Xuechao , Guo Lianggang , Wang Yifan , Liang Lei
Published: July 2019

The microstructures of hard-to-deform materials such as titanium alloy are very sensitive to temperature change in hot working process. During ring rolling process, unreasonable rolling paths will lead to drastic temperature change in local region of ring, thus damaging the microstructure and performance of rolled ring. This work proposes a method for designing the rolling paths which could accurately control the ring temperature by target-temperature driven intelligent FE simulation. The main idea of target-temperature driven intelligent simulation is introduced. An intelligent 3D-FE model for TA15 titanium alloy ring rolling is established under ABAQUS/Explicit environment. The rolling paths under different initial conditions are obtained by intelligent FE simulations. The influence rule of initial conditions on rolling paths is revealed. The temperature control effects and change under different initial conditions are discussed. Considering the temperature control effects, a feasible range of initial ring temperature is suggested. Using the proposed method, the quick and accurate design for the rolling paths in radial-axial ring rolling process is realized. It is of great significance for the design and optimization of rolling paths and the accurate regulation of ring temperature in actual production.
Wann mit der intensivierten Insulintherapie beginnen? – Der BeAM-Wert zur besseren Abschätzung einer prandialen Insulintherapie bei Typ-2-Diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kress Stephan , Borck Anja , Zisman Ariel , Bramlage Peter , Siegmund Thorsten
Published: July 2019

Der BeAM-Wert ist ein kumulatives Maß der postprandialen Hyperglykämie. Er lässt sich aus der Blutglukosekonzentration vor dem Zubettgehen (Be) und der darauf folgenden Nüchternglukose am Morgen (AM) errechnen. In zwei retrospektiven Auswertungen von Daten aus Phase-III- und -IV-Studien wurde der Nutzen des BeAM-Wertes als Entscheidungshilfe für den Beginn der intensivierten Insulintherapie bei Typ-2-Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) Patienten unter basalinsulinunterstützter oraler Therapie (BOT) dargelegt.

Bei Patienten, deren Therapie von einer oralen antidiabetischen Therapie (OAD) auf eine basalinsulinunterstützte orale Therapie umgestellt wird, steigen Ausmaß der postprandialen Hyperglykämie und der BeAM-Wert an bei gleichzeitig sinkendem HbA1c-Wert und Nüchternglukose. Nach Umstellung auf eine intensivierte Insulintherapie fällt der BeAM-Wert und das Ausmaß der postprandialen Hyperglykämie geht zurück.

Insbesondere Patienten mit einem BeAM-Wert > 50 mg/dl profitieren von der Umstellung auf eine intensivierte Insulintherapie. Ein negativer BeAM-Wert spricht gegen den Einstieg in die prandiale Insulintherapie.
Devastating Complications of Metal Strut Migration Following Pectus Excavatum Repair
Authors: Stajevic Mila , Bijelovic Milorad , Kosutic Jovan , Simic Radoje
Published: July 2019

The modified Ravitch technique with metal struts and the Nuss operation have been the dominant operative techniques for treatment of pectus excavatum in the previous decades. We present devastating postoperative complications of a 16-year-old boy after the modified Ravitch procedure for a severe deformity utilizing two metal bars. Four months following surgery, one strut was removed after the displacement noted on a regular postoperative examination. Ten days after the strut removal, the patient complained of lower limb pain but the sensations were attributed to physical inactivity. Two months later, after pain intensification, the boy was diagnosed with bilateral arterial and venous lower limb thromboses and subsequently, the migration of the remaining metal strut intracardially with the free end in the left ventricular cavity embedded in massive thrombi. An urgent cardiac procedure was performed and the bar removed. Postoperatively, the boy made a full cardiac recovery but with severe neurological complications and subsequent death. Migration of metal struts is a rare complication and, except in our case, had been dealt with successfully. This case should emphasize more attention to the postoperative follow-up management of such patients.
Scaphoid Fracture Patterns—Part Two: Reproducibility and Demographics of a Simplified Scaphoid Fracture Classification
Authors: Drijkoningen Tessa , Mohamadi Amin , van Leeuwen Wouter F. , Schwarcz Yonatan , Ring David , Buijze Geert A.
Published: July 2019

Objective To analyze the reproducibility, reliability, and demographics of a simplified anatomical scaphoid fracture classification based on posteroanterior radiographs using a large database of scaphoid fractures.

Methods The study consisted of a retrospective review of electronic medical records of 871 consecutive patients. All patients presented between 2003 and 2014 at two centers. Patient- and surgeon-related factors were analyzed. Additionally, interobserver reliability of the Herbert and simplified scaphoid fracture classifications were tested.

Results Proximal pole fractures were defined as fractures in which the center of the fracture line was proximal to the distal scapholunate interval (n = 30), waist fractures (n = 802) were defined as fractures involving the scaphocapitate interval, and distal tubercle fractures (n = 39) were defined as fractures involving the scaphotrapeziotrapezoid (STT) interval. The interobserver reliability of the simplified classification was fair (κ = 0.37) as for the Herbert classification (κ = 0.31). The average doubt of the answers of the observers was 2.1 on a scale from 0 to 10 for the simplified classification and 3.6 for the Herbert classification (P < 0.05).

Conclusions All complete fractures across the entire scaphoid distal to the scapholunate articulation and proximal to the STT joint can be classified as waist fractures; nonwaist scaphoid fractures are uncommon (6%) and have somewhat different presentations compared to waist fractures. Simplifying the fracture classification slightly improves interobserver reliability, although remaining fair, and significantly reduces doubt.

Level of Evidence This is a Level III, prognostic study.
Pediatric Distal Forearm Fracture Epidemiology in Malmö, Sweden—Time Trends During Six Decades
Authors: Lempesis Vasileios , Jerrhag Daniel , Rosengren Björn E. , Landin Lennart , Tiderius Carl Johan , Karlsson Magnus K.
Published: July 2019

Background The distal forearm fracture is the most common fracture in children. To allocate health care resources and evaluate if prevention strategies have been successful, it is essential to monitor changes in the epidemiology of common fractures.

Methods Our hospital serves a city in which year 2006 included 276,244 inhabitants (49,664 <17 years of age). Through the hospital archives, we identified fractures sustained by individuals younger than 16 years during 2005 and 2006 and compared these with previous collected and published data from the same area and hospital for the period 1950 to 1994. We used official population data to estimate period-specific fracture rates and age and gender standardized time trends. We report rates as number of fractures per 100,000 person-years and changes between periods as rate ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results We identified 521 distal forearm fractures, corresponding to a crude fracture incidence of 564/100,000 person-years (boys 719; girls 401). Age-adjusted fracture incidence was 70% higher in boys than in girls (RR 1.7; 95% CI 1.3–2.3). The age- and gender-adjusted hand fracture incidence was 40% higher in 2005–2006 than in 1950/1955 (RR 1.4; 95% CI 1.2 to 1.8) but no higher than 1993–1994 (RR 1.1; 95% CI 0.9–1.3). Fracture etiology of 2005 to 2006 included sports injuries in 41% and traffic accidents in 11% of the cases, while sports injuries explained 37% and traffic accidents 18% in 1950 to 1955.

Conclusion In 2005 to 2006, we found higher rates in boys and higher overall rates compared with the 1950s but no significant differences compared with the rates in 1993 to 1994. Future studies should include patient-specific data to unravel causal factors.

Level of evidence This is a Level III b study.