bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cobalt-Porphyrin Modified Three-Dimensional Graphene Hydrogel Electrode for High Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Song Yuqing , Wang Hongfei , Yan Lifeng
Published: April 2019

Three-dimensional (3D) graphene-based materials have attracted much attention in the field of supercapacitors for their large surface areas and fast electronic conductivity capability. Faradaic pseudo-capacitance materials inside the architecture can enlarge the electrochemical performance of the electrode. Additionally, metal porphyrins are negative electrode active materials for supercapacitors as they have potential high pseudo-capacitance, conductivity and N-doping. The design and preparation of the 3D cobalt-porphyrin modified graphene hydrogels (3D CoP/GHs) is an interesting topic. Here, we have fabricated the 3D CoP/GH by a two-step method. The composite electrode reaches a specific capacitance of 335[Formula: see text]F[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text], twice that of pure GHs. At the same time, resistance of the electrode material decreases and the ion transfer is accelerated due to the addition of cobalt-porphyrin. After 10[Formula: see text]000 cycles, the 3D CoP/GH maintains its stable specific capacitance retention of 94.11% indicating its excellent cycle life. The cycle life is much better than that of a hydrogel that has not been doped (81.63%) according to our previous work. Then we fabricated an asymmetrical supercapacitor which uses both the 3D CoP/GH and GH as the two electrodes (3D CoP/GH[Formula: see text]GH), and reaches an outstanding energy density of 30.40[Formula: see text]Wh[Formula: see text]kg[Formula: see text] at a current density of 1[Formula: see text]A[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] while the power density is 749.5[Formula: see text]W[Formula: see text]kg[Formula: see text].
Preparation of Cobalt Ferrite Nanoparticle-Decorated Boron Nitride Nanosheet Flame Retardant and Its Flame Retardancy in Epoxy Resin
Authors: Zhang Qiaoran , Li Zhiwei , Li Xiaohong , Yu Laigui , Zhang Zhijun , Wu Zhishen
Published: April 2019

Boron nitride nanosheet (BNNS) decorated with cobalt ferrite nanoparticle (CFN) to afford CFN-BNNS nanohybrid was prepared via a simple hydrothermal route and was well characterized. Subsequently, the as-prepared CFN-BNNS nanohybrid was incorporated into epoxy resin (EP) with the introduction of a weak rotary magnetic field to achieve order orientation, in order to reduce the fire risk and toxic hazards using enhanced shielding effect of BNNS upon combustion. Findings demonstrate that the CFN-BNNS nanohybrid is composed of CFN nanoparticle uniformly dispersed on BNNS surface. Thermal analysis and cone calorimeter data show that the CFN-BNNS nanofiller among EP matrix contributes to improving the char residues and mechanical properties of EP and reducing its fire risk as well as toxic hazards, especially the ordered one is advantageous over the disordered one in reducing the fire risk and toxic hazard. This is because, on the one hand, the orderly aligned BNNS as the physical barrier can more effectively prevent the transfer and diffusion of oxygen and heat. On the other hand, CFN can catalyze the degradation of EP to afford excessive chars on polymer surface; and it is also liable to decomposition during combustion, thereby generating ferrite species to promote EP degradation as well as cobalt species to enhance the oxidation of CO.
Improved Thermal Conductivity and Mechanical Property of PTFE Reinforced with Al2O3
Authors: Chao Min , Guo Changjuan , Feng Ailing , Huang Zhengyong , Yang Qingli , Wu Guanglei
Published: April 2019

To achieve polymer-based composites for electronic packaging with high thermal conductivity, Al2O3 nanoplatelets were introduced into polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) matrix via a cold pressing and sintering method. The effect of mass content of the Al2O3 platelets on the morphology, mechanical properties, thermal conductivity and dielectric properties of the composites was investigated. The results revealed that the Al2O3/PTFE nanocomposites exhibited higher thermal conductivities, better thermal stabilities, enhanced mechanical properties with considerable dielectric properties. The largest thermal conductivity of the Al2O3/PTFE nanocomposites filled with 25[Formula: see text]wt.% Al2O3 platelets was 0.461[Formula: see text]W[Formula: see text]m[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]K[Formula: see text], increased by 85% compared with that of pure PTFE. The improved thermal conductivity of Al2O3/PTFE can be attributed to the formation of effective thermal conductance network within the PTFE matrix due to the interconnectivity of Al2O3 platelets.
First-Principles Study on a New All-d-Metal Full-Heusler-Based Shape-Memory Alloy Cd2MnPd
Authors: Chen Zongbin , Wei Huan , Xu Heju , Gao Yongchun , Yang Tie , Wang Xiaotian , Chen Xuebin
Published: April 2019

A new all-[Formula: see text]-metal full-Heusler alloy (Cd2MnPd) was designed based on density functional theory. Its crystal structure, band structure, density of states, magnetism, and the possibility of martensitic transformation were studied. The calculated total energy shows that the most stable cubic structure of this alloy is the L21 type at ferromagnetic (FM) state, and the equilibrium lattice constant is 6.57[Formula: see text]Å. The band structure and density of states show that it is a FM metal with a total magnetic moment of 3.97[Formula: see text][Formula: see text], mainly originating from the Mn element. The results of the martensitic transformation investigation show that the martensitic phase has minimum energy when the c/a ratio is 1.35, and the absolute value of the energy difference ([Formula: see text]) between the martensitic and the austenitic phases is 0.07[Formula: see text]eV. This indicates that there is a high possibility that a stable martensitic phase exists. Furthermore, [Formula: see text] can be tuned by uniform strain, and the absolute value of [Formula: see text] increases as the volume increases in the range of [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text] is the optimal volume, namely, the cubic volume under its equilibrium lattice). In conclusion, Cd2MnPd may be a good candidate for ferromagnetic shape-memory alloys (FSMAs). We expect that our theoretical prediction can provide guidance for exploring valuable FSMAs experimentally.
Coordinative Urban‐Rural Solid Waste Management: A Fractional Dual‐Objective Programming Model for the Regional Munifcipality of Xiamen
Authors: Yang Aili , Chen Xiujuan , Huang Guohe , Zhao Shan , Lin Xiajing , Mcbean Edward
Published: April 2019

A linear fractional programming based solid waste management planning model was proposed and applied to support the planning of urban‐rural solid waste management in Xiamen, China. The model could obtain the best system efficiency while solving the tradeoff between economic and environmental objectives. It aimed to effectively address the urban and rural solid waste management planning through minimizing the system cost and optimizing system efficiency in the developed model framework. Through the model, the optimal waste flow for each facility was obtained, and the problem of overburdened landfill in Xiamen’s urban and rural solid waste management system was solved. The solutions for waste allocation and facility capacity expansion were provided for Xiamen’s urban and rural solid waste management. The planning results showed that about 42.44 × 106 tons of waste would be diverted to other facilities from landfills over the planning period of 2018‐2032, and the waste diversion rate would reach 97%, which would greatly reduce the burden on landfills. The economic efficiency of waste diversion would be 5.07 × 103 ton per 106 RMB. All the capacities of Xiamen’s urban and rural solid waste management facilities including incinerators, composting plant, and landfills should be expanded because of increasing waste production rate.
Long Noncoding RNA MALAT1 Acts as a Competing Endogenous RNA to Regulate TGF-β2 Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Lens Epithelial Cells by a MicroRNA-26a-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Dong Ning
Published: April 2019

The aim of the present study was to characterize whether the long noncoding RNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1)/miR-26a/Smad4 axis is involved in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of lens epithelial cells (LECs). Primary human LECs were separated and cultured. Microarray analysis showed that a total of 568 lncRNAs are differentially expressed in primary HLECs in the presence of TGF-β2 and MALAT1 is mostly significantly dysregulated lncRNAs, which is increased by nearly 17-fold. In addition, upregulation of MALAT1 and downregulation of miR-26a were detected in human posterior capsule opacification (PCO) attached LECs and the LECs obtained from patients with anterior polar cataracts by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). Next, our results showed that TGF-β2 induces overexpression of EMT markers in primary HLECs via a MALAT1-dependent mechanism. The mechanism is that MALAT1 negatively regulates miR-26a and miR-26a directly targets Smad4 by luciferase reporter assays and RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation assay. In summary, TGF-β2 induces MALAT1 overexpression, which in turn MALAT1 acts as a ceRNA targeting Smad4 by binding miR-26a and promotes the progression of EMT of LECs.
Donor and Recipient Outcomes following Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Living Donor Nephrectomy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Creta Massimiliano , Calogero Armando , Sagnelli Caterina , Peluso Gaia , Incollingo Paola , Candida Maria , Minieri Gianluca , Longo Nicola , Fusco Ferdinando , Tammaro Vincenzo , Dodaro Concetta Anna , Mangiapia Francesco , Carlomagno Nicola
Published: April 2019

Aims. We aimed to summarize available lines of evidence about intraoperative and postoperative donor outcomes following robotic-assisted laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (RALDN) as well as outcomes of graft and recipients.Methods.A systematic review of PubMed/Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge, and Scopus databases was performed in May 2018. The following search terms were combined: nephrectomy, robotic, and living donor. We included full papers that met the following criteria: original research; English language; human studies; enrolling patients undergoing RALDN.Results. Eighteen studies involving 910 patients were included in the final analysis. Mean overall operative and warm ischemia times ranged from 139 to 306 minutes and from 1.5 to 5.8 minutes, respectively. Mean estimated blood loss varied from 30 to 146 mL and the incidence of intraoperative complications ranged from 0% to 6.7%. Conversion rate varied from 0% to 5%. The mean hospital length of stay varied from 1 to 5.8 days and incidence of early postoperative complications varied from 0% to 15.7%. No donor mortality was observed. The incidence of delayed graft function was reported in 7 cases. The one- and 10-year graft loss rates were 1% and 22%, respectively.Conclusions.Based on preliminary data, RALDN appears as a safe and effective procedure.
Effect of Ionic Liquid Surfactants on Coal Oxidation and Structure
Authors: Zhang Weiqing , Jiang Shuguang , Qin Tong , Sun Jianfeng , Dong Chaowei , Hu Qiang
Published: April 2019

The effects of six ionic liquids with surfactant property (1-hydroxyethyl-3-methyl imidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([HOEtMIm][NTf2]), 1-hydroxyethyl-3-methyl imidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([HOEtMIm][BF4]), 1-dodecyl-3- methyl imidazolium bromide ([C12MIm]Br), 1-tetradecyl-3- methyl imidazolium bromide ([C14MIm]Br), trioctyl methyl ammonium chloride ([N8,8,8,1])Cl, and tetraethyl ammonium chloride ([N2,2,2,2]Cl)) on the oxidation characteristics and functional groups of coal were studied by means of critical micelle concentration, surface tension, thermogravimetric analysis, temperature-programmed oxidation, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) measurements. The lower critical micelle concentration for the ionic liquids except the [N2,2,2,2]Cl suggests the favorable surface activity of these ionic liquids. The surface activities of [N8,8,8,1]Cl, [C14MIm]Br, [C12MIm]Br, and [HOEtMIm][NTf2] were high, while that of [N2,2,2,2]Cl was relatively lower. The thermal stabilities of [HOEtMIm][NTf2] and [HOEtMIm][BF4] were high, while those of [N8,8,8,1]Cl and [N2,2,2,2]Cl were lower. The oxidation activities of ionic liquid-mixed coals were weakened to different degrees except [N8,8,8,1]Cl-mixed coal, because of the poor thermal stability and decomposition of [N8,8,8,1]Cl accelerating the coal oxidation. The other five ionic liquids were suitable for inhibiting coal oxidation, particularly the [HOEtMIm][BF4] and [HOEtMIm][NTf2] with higher inhibition rate, longer inhibition time, and also better thermal stabilities. The activation energy results further confirmed such inhibition effect. The functional group results showed that treatment of ionic liquids on coal can change the contents of hydrogen bonds, aliphatic groups, and aromatic groups in coal. It was inferred that the [HOEtMIm][BF4], [HOEtMIm][NTf2], and [C14MIm]Br were more effectively to affect coal structure and decrease coal oxidation activity.
Risk Identification and Quantitative Evaluation Method for Asset Integrity Management of Offshore Platform Equipment and Facilities
Authors: Tang Yang , Yao Jiaxin , Wang Guorong , Zhang Zhidong , He Yufa , Jing Jiajia
Published: April 2019

Asset Integrity Management (AIM) technology has been rapidly developed and applied so that it has become a main management technology of offshore platform equipment and facilities. Risk identification and quantitative evaluation method is one of the core contents in the AIM. However, most of the existing methods are qualitative analysis results, simple analysis process, and strong subjectivity, which can no longer meet the development of AIM technology system. By analyzing disadvantages and shortcomings of the existing methods and adapting to the technology requirements of the AIM, a Streamline Failure Mode Effects and Criticality Analysis (SFMECA) was presented to achieve risk identification and quantitative evaluation based on the traditional FMECA and Borda scoring method. Taking a truss crane as a case study, feasibility and operability of the SFMECA were verified effectively with obtaining a detailed and complete analysis worksheet. Compared with their analysis process and worksheet, it was more specific, more comprehensive, and more operable by applying the SFMECA than the traditional FMECA. Moreover, in the SFMECA, failure risk was divided into four categories in detail and quantified separately to better distinguish and evaluate failure effect. Then a comprehensive quantitative evaluation method of four risks was carried out and risk knots in risk priority number (RPN) were obviously reduced, which help to develop more accurate risk management measures. Independent evaluation mechanism of multiple experts or teams is adopted in the SFMECA to make the analysis and evaluation results more objective. So the worksheet obtained through the SFMECA contains more quantitative data, comprehensive information, and objective results, which can better meet technical system of the AIM. Therefore, application of the SFMECA can provide technical support for extension and application of the AIM technology, including risk quantitative analysis, maintenance decision, and integrity evaluation, for offshore platform equipment and facilities.
Application of Compressive Sensing to Asymptotic Waveform Evaluation for Fast Frequency-Sweep Analysis of Electromagnetic Scattering Problems
Authors: Kong Meng , Chen Ming-Sheng , Cao Xin-Yuan , Wu Xian-Liang
Published: April 2019

To reduce the computing resource of full-scale impedance matrix and its high-order derivatives in traditional Asymptotic Waveform Evaluation (AWE), compressive sensing (CS) is applied to AWE for fast and accurate frequency-sweep analysis of electromagnetic scattering problems. In CS framework, some prior knowledge is extracted by constructing and solving undetermined equation of 0-order surface induced current, so that coefficients about high-order induced current can be accurately obtained by the prior knowledge, and finally the wide-band radar cross section (RCS) is calculated. Numerical results of two-dimensional objects and bodies of revolution (BOR) were presented to the show the efficiency of the proposed method.
Research on Blade‐Casing Rub‐Impact Mechanism by Experiment and Simulation in Aeroengines
Authors: Hong Jie , Li Tianrang , Liang Zhichao , Zhang Dayi , Ma Yanhong
Published: April 2019

Aeroengines pursue high performance, and compressing blade‐casing clearance has become one of the main ways to improve turbomachinery efficiency. Rub‐impact faults occur frequently with clearance decreasing. A high‐speed rotor‐support‐casing test rig was set up, and the mechanism tests of light and heavy rub‐impact were carried out. A finite element model of the test rig was established, and the calculation results were in good agreement with the experimental results under both kinds of rub‐impact conditions. Based on the actual blade‐casing structure model, the effects of the major physical parameters including imbalance and material characteristics were investigated. During the rub‐impact, the highest stress occurs at the blade tip first and then it is transmitted to the blade root. Deformation on the impact blade tip generates easily with decreased yield strength, and stress concentration at the blade tip occurs obviously with weaker stiffness. The agreement of the computation results with the experimental data indicates the method could be used to estimate rub‐impact characteristics and is effective in design and analyses process.
Ballistic Target Tracking with Use of Cinetheodolites
Authors: Kaniewski Piotr , Smagowski Piotr , Konatowski Stanislaw
Published: April 2019

The paper addresses a problem of ballistic object tracking with the use of the cinetheodolite electro-optical tracking system. Electro-optical systems are applied for acquiring the trajectory data of missiles, satellites, and rockets used for delivery of satellites to their prevised orbits. Despite the importance of such systems and their applications, in the open literature there are no publications describing tracking algorithms processing data from cinetheodolites. The paper describes a model-based algorithm of estimation of position and parameters of target motion for such a system, developed by the authors. The model of the system, nonlinear both in its description of the target dynamics and the measurement equations, is presented in detail. The proposed algorithm of estimation is also described, and chosen simulation results are included in the paper. Furthermore, a comparison of the proposed estimation algorithm with other possible, but simpler algorithms is presented.
Successful Treatment of Transient Central Diabetes Insipidus following Traumatic Brain Injury in a Dog
Authors: Croton Catriona , Purcell Sarah , Schoep Andrea , Haworth Mark
Published: April 2019

An 11-year-old female spayed Maltese presented comatose, half an hour after vehicular trauma, and was treated for traumatic brain injury and pulmonary contusions. The dog developed severe hypernatremia within six hours of presentation, which responded poorly to the administration of five percent dextrose in water. As central diabetes insipidus was suspected, desmopressin was trialled and resolution of hypernatremia was achieved six days later. Transient trauma-induced central diabetes insipidus has been described previously in two dogs; in the first, serum sodium concentrations were evaluated three days after injury and the other developed hypernatremia seven days after injury. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of rapid onset, transient, and trauma-induced central diabetes insipidus in a dog that encompasses the complete clinical progression of the syndrome from shortly after injury through to resolution.
Dittrichia viscosaL. Ethanolic Extract Based Ointment with Antiradical, Antioxidant, and Healing Wound Activities
Authors: Rhimi Wafa , Hlel Raoudha , Ben Salem Issam , Boulila Abdennacer , Rejeb Ahmed , Saidi Mouldi
Published: April 2019

Dittrichia viscosawhich belongs to theAsteraceaefamily is frequently used to treat hematomas and skin disorders in Mediterranean herbal medicine. This study aims to validate its antioxidant effects and its potential on healing wounds. The ethanolic extract ofD. viscosaleaves was formulated as 2.5% and 5% (w/w) in ointment bases on the beeswax and sesame oil. During this study, the ethanolicD. viscosaextract, ointments containing 2.5% and 5% ofD. viscosaextract, and the vehiculum were assessed for their total phenol content (TPC), caffeoylquinic acid content (CQC), and antioxidant activities using complementary methods (TAC, the DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and the BCB). The effects on wound healing of obtained ointments were evaluated by excision of the wound in a mice model for 12 days. Subsequently, the excised wound areas were measured at the3rd,9th, and12thdays. The skin tissues were isolated for histological studies. The ointments containingD. viscosaextract (2.5%, 5%) possessed a considerable TPC, CQC, radical scavenging potential, and antioxidant activities compared to the vehiculum. Treated animals with ointments containingD. viscosaextract at 2.5% and 5% showed almost and totally healed wounds compared to the vehiculum and control groups, evidenced by good skin regeneration and reepithelialization. The present work showed the role ofD. viscosaantioxidants exerted by its polyphenolic compounds, in particular, caffeoylquinic acids, in enhancing wound healing.
Using Dimensionless Numbers to Predict Centrifugal Jet-Spun Nanofiber Morphology
Authors: Ravishankar Prashanth , Khang Alex , Laredo Melissa , Balachandran Kartik
Published: April 2019

In this study, we report a method for predictive, controlled, and highly aligned nanofiber production via Centrifugal Jet Spinning (CJS) using polycaprolactone (PCL) as a model polymer. We investigated the effects of fabrication conditions and their resulting dimensionless parameters, namely the Weber, Reynolds, and Capillary numbers, by correlating with fiber morphologies (fiber diameter, fiber alignment, bead frequency, bead aspect ratio, and scaffold porosity) and mechanical properties (linear modulus and ultimate tensile strength). We report a fabrication parameter lookup table based on the aforementioned dimensionless numbers, for the production of nanofiber scaffolds using the CJS. We built a scaled-up version of the CJS that uses a larger reservoir and successfully validated the reported lookup table for PCL as well as other polymers including polyethylene oxide, polylactic acid, and polyvinylpyrrolidone dissolved either in hexafluoroisopropanol or chloroform. We show that by carefully tailoring the polymer intrinsic properties and the Reynolds number, we can fabricate bead-free, continuous fibers. This method will allow other researchers to design and build their own CJS for the production of desired fiber scaffold networks by utilizing the appropriate dimensionless numbers for their system.
Bulk and Surface Chemical Composition of Wheat Flour Particles of Different Sizes
Authors: Lin Jiangtao , Gu Yujuan , Bian Ke
Published: April 2019

Chemical composition and particle size are the critical factors influencing the quality and application of flour. The present study investigated the microstructure and distribution of bulk and surface chemical composition in wheat flour particles of different size. Eight samples of wheat flour of different particle size were obtained from the same native wheat flour by sieving (sieve aperture from 25 to 112 μm). Results from scanning electron microscopy and bulk chemical composition analyze showed that flour particles of different sizes differed in microstructure, protein, and starch composition. Further analysis of protein fractions with varying solubility implied that the relative smaller flour particles (diameter <48 μm) had higher gluten protein (gliadin and glutenin) ratio (60.88–64.06%). Furthermore, amino acid analysis showed that glutamic acid was rich in the medium particles. The results of XPS showed that the surface chemical composition of wheat flour of different sizes had no correlation with the bulk chemical composition, indicating that they would have an independent effect on the quality of flour.
Fabrication of a Piezoresistive Barometric Pressure Sensor by a Silicon-on-Nothing Technology
Authors: Su Jiale , Zhang Xinwei , Zhou Guoping , Gu Jianjian , Xia Changfeng , Zhou Zai-Fa , Huang Qing-An
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a piezoresistive barometric pressure sensor fabricated by using a Silicon-on-Nothing (SON) technology. Array of silicon trenches were annealed in hydrogen environment to form continuing crystalline silicon membrane over a vacuum cavity. Epitaxial growth on the silicon membrane is then completed for the desired thickness. All processes are CMOS compatible and performed on the front side of the silicon wafer. The piezoresistive barometric pressure sensor has been demonstrated with pressure hysteresis as low as 0.007%.
Aortic and Internal Carotid Atherosclerosis in Patients with Carotid Stenosis: Semiautomatic Volumetric Analysis of Low-Attenuation Plaque on Curved Planar Reformations Using MDCT Angiographic Data
Authors: Manaka Hiroshi , Torimoto Izumi , Sekikawa Zenjiro , Kasama Keiichiro , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Takebayashi Shigeo
Published: April 2019

This retrospective study included 65 patients who underwent multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) carotid angiography; 28 patients were <70 years old (group 1), and 37 were ≥70 years old (group 2). Each low-attenuation (<30 Hounsfield units [HU]) plaque volume (LPV) and total uncalcified plaque volume ([TUPV] ≤150 HU) were semiautomatically measured on each aortic arch and internal carotid artery (ICA) curved planar reformations (CPR), using MDCT angiographic data. Correlation coefficients were employed to assess the impact of each plaque volume on various factors including ICA stenosis. The correlations (r > 0.5) were observed between aortic LPV and each ICA stenosis ratio and >30% stenosis in group 1, between aortic TUPV and male gender in group 1, and between ICA-TUPV and each aortic TUPV or the largest plaque thickness in group 2. Marginal correlations were observed between hyperlipidemia and aortic LPV and ICA-TUPV in group 1. There was no association between cerebral infarction and the aortic and ICA plaques. Both the aortic arch and ICA plaque volumes can be measured clinically. The increasing aortic LPV may be a significant factor associated with the development of ICA stenosis in patients younger than 70 years old.
Super‐Twisting Sliding Mode Control for Gearless PMSG‐Based Wind Turbine
Authors: Nasiri Mojtaba , Mobayen Saleh , Zhu Quan Min
Published: April 2019

In recent years, the complexities of wind turbine control are raised while implementing grid codes in voltage sag conditions. In fact, wind turbines should stay connected to the grid and inject reactive power according to the new grid codes. Accordingly, this paper presents a new control algorithm based on super‐twisting sliding mode for a gearless wind turbine by a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG). The PMSG is connected to the grid via the back‐to‐back converter. In the proposed method, the machine side converter regulates the DC‐link voltage. This strategy improves low‐voltage ride through (LVRT) capability. In addition, the grid side inverter provides the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control. It should be noted that the super‐twisting sliding mode (STSM) control is implemented to effectively deal with nonlinear relationship between DC‐link voltage and the input control signal. The main features of the designed controller are being chattering‐free and its robustness against external disturbances such as grid fault conditions. Simulations are performed on the MATLAB/Simulink platform. This controller is compared with Proportional‐Integral (PI) and the first‐order sliding mode (FOSM) controllers to illustrate the DC‐link voltage regulation capability in the normal and grid fault conditions. Then, to show the MPPT implementation of the proposed controller, wind speed is changed with time. The simulation results show designed STSM controller better performance and robustness under different conditions.
Age-Related Differences in Head Impact during Experimentally Induced Sideways Falls
Authors: Wood Tyler A. , Moon Yaejin , Sun Ruopeng , Bishnoi Alka , Sosnoff Jacob J.
Published: April 2019

Purpose. To examine head impact incidence and head acceleration during experimentally induced falls as a function of age.Methods. 15 young adults (21.2±2.7) and 10 older adults (61.9±4.3 years) underwent 6 experimentally induced sideways falls. Participants fell sideways onto a 20cm crash pad. The number of head impacts was tabulated from video recordings and head acceleration was calculated from motion capture data. A total of 147 falls were analyzed.Results. The young group underwent 88 falls, in which 11.4% resulted in head impact. The older group underwent 59 falls, in which 34.5% resulted in head impact. A proportion analysis revealed older adults had a significantly greater proportion of head impacts than young adults (X2(1) = 11.445, p = 0.001). A two-way ANOVA only revealed a main effect of head impact on acceleration (F(1,142) = 54.342, p<0.001).Conclusion. The older adults experienced a greater proportion of head impacts during sideways falls. Head impact resulted in greater head acceleration compared to no head impact. Collectively, this data highlights the possibility that age-related neuromuscular changes to head control may result in elevated risk of fall-related TBIs. Future research examining mechanisms underlying increases in fall-related head impact is warranted.
Enhancement of the Electrochemical Performance of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 Cathode Material by Double-Layer Coating with Graphene Oxide and SnO2 for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Yuxin , Cui Ping , Zhan Dan , Gan Bing , Ma Youliang , Liang Ying
Published: April 2019

The graphene oxide-coated SnO2-Li1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 (GO-SnO2-NCM) cathode material was successfully synthesized via a facile wet chemical method. The pristine NCM and GO-SnO2-NCM were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results showed that the double-coating layer did not destroy the NCM crystal structure, with multiple nano-SnO2 particles and GO uniformly covering the NCM surface. Electrochemical tests indicated that GO-SnO2-NCM exhibited excellent cycling performance, with 90.7% capacity retention at 1 C after 100 cycles, which was higher than 74.3% for the pristine NCM at the same cycle. The rate capability showed that the double-coating layer enhanced surface electronic–ionic transport. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results confirmed that the GO-SnO2-coating layer effectively suppressed the increased electrode polarization and charge transfer resistance during cycling.
Synthesis of h-BN by the Combustion of B/KNO3/Octogen Mixture under Nitrogen Atmosphere
Authors: Hu Song-qi , Wang Yin , Liu Lin-lin
Published: April 2019

Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) powders were fabricated by the combustion synthesis with B/KNO3/HMX (octogen) mixtures as reactants. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were adopted to investigate the phase composition and the chemical composition of the products, respectively. The morphology and resistance to oxidation were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetry (TGA), respectively. The characterization results showed that the h-BN which was produced through this method has high purity and exhibits excellent resistance to oxidation. The purity of h-BN is improved with the increasing content of HMX in reactants with boron carbide (B4C) and boron oxide (B2O3) as main impurity, but conversely, the yields are obviously decreased. Taking the comprehensive consideration of the purity and the yields together, the optimal molar ratio of B/KNO3/HMX is 10 : 1 : 4. In addition, the experimental results indicated that the crystalline grain size grows with the increasing content of HMX. The method explored in this study does not need expensive processing facilities and equipment, which is a preferable approach for the laboratory to prepare h-BN of high purity.
Effects of a Game-Based Virtual Reality Video Capture Training Program Plus Occupational Therapy on Manual Dexterity in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Waliño-Paniagua Carmen Nélida , Gómez-Calero Cristina , Jiménez-Trujillo María Isabel , Aguirre-Tejedor Leticia , Bermejo-Franco Alberto , Ortiz-Gutiérrez Rosa María , Cano-de-la-Cuerda Roberto
Published: April 2019

Neurorehabilitation is a fundamental aspect in the treatment approach for multiple sclerosis (MS), in which new technologies have gained popularity, especially the use of virtual reality (VR). The aim of this paper is to analyze an occupational therapy (OT) intervention compared with OT + VR (OT + VR) on the manual dexterity of patients with MS. 26 MS subjects were initially recruited from an MS patient association and randomized into two groups. The OT group received 20 conventional OT sessions distributed in two sessions per week. The OT + VR group received 20 sessions of VR interventions, twice weekly and lasting 30 minutes, consisting of VR games accessed via the online web pagemotiongamingconsole.com, in addition to the conventional OT sessions. Pre- and postintervention assessments were based on the Purdue Pegboard Test, the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, and the Grooved Pegboard Test. Clinical improvements were found regarding the precision of movements, the execution times, and the efficiency of certain functional tasks in the Purdue Pegboard Test and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test tests in the OT + VR group. Although significant differences were not found in the manual dexterity between the OT and OT + VR groups, improvements were found regarding the precision and effectiveness of certain functional tasks.
Deep Learning Predicts Lung Cancer Treatment Response from Serial Medical Imaging
Authors: Xu Yiwen , Hosny Ahmed , Zeleznik Roman , Parmar Chintan , Coroller Thibaud , Franco Idalid , Mak Raymond H. , Aerts Hugo J.W.L.
Published: April 2019

Purpose:

Tumors are continuously evolving biological systems, and medical imaging is uniquely positioned to monitor changes throughout treatment. Although qualitatively tracking lesions over space and time may be trivial, the development of clinically relevant, automated radiomics methods that incorporate serial imaging data is far more challenging. In this study, we evaluated deep learning networks for predicting clinical outcomes through analyzing time series CT images of patients with locally advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Experimental Design: Dataset A consists of 179 patients with stage III NSCLC treated with definitive chemoradiation, with pretreatment and posttreatment CT images at 1, 3, and 6 months follow-up (581 scans). Models were developed using transfer learning of convolutional neural networks (CNN) with recurrent neural networks (RNN), using single seed-point tumor localization. Pathologic response validation was performed on dataset B, comprising 89 patients with NSCLC treated with chemoradiation and surgery (178 scans).

Results:

Deep learning models using time series scans were significantly predictive of survival and cancer-specific outcomes (progression, distant metastases, and local-regional recurrence). Model performance was enhanced with each additional follow-up scan into the CNN model (e.g., 2-year overall survival: AUC = 0.74, P < 0.05). The models stratified patients into low and high mortality risk groups, which were significantly associated with overall survival [HR = 6.16; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.17–17.44; P < 0.001]. The model also significantly predicted pathologic response in dataset B (P = 0.016).

Conclusions:

We demonstrate that deep learning can integrate imaging scans at multiple timepoints to improve clinical outcome predictions. AI-based noninvasive radiomics biomarkers can have a significant impact in the clinic given their low cost and minimal requirements for human input.
Ectoparasitic fauna in freshwater ornamental fish acquired by a wholesaler in the city of São Paulo
Authors: Cardoso Pedro Henrique Magalhães , Costa Arthur Roberto da , Balian Simone De Carvalho
Published: April 2019

This study analyzed the ectoparasitic fauna of freshwater ornamental fish marketed by a wholesaler in the São Paulo city. This study was undertaken from January to December 2016. A total of 268 freshwater ornamental fishes of various species that showed signs of disease after arrival at the establishment were evaluated. From the individuals, ectoparasites were collected by scraping off the skin and gills and visualized using an optical microscope at increasing magnification of 40x, 100x, 200x, and 400x. Parasites were found in 220 animals (82%); 11 different parasites were recorded, which included Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, Monogenes, Metacercariae (Centrocestrus formousus), Epistylis spp., Chilodonella spp., Lernaea spp., Tetrahymena spp., Piscinoodinium spp., Trichodina spp., Ichthyobodo spp. and Argulus spp. The occurrence of the parasites in the establishment studied can indicates that the suppliers’ lack of good sanitary and hygiene practices in the management of their facilities, consequently distributing infested animals and putting the whole supply chain at risk.
Toxoplasma gondii molecular and immunological identification and risk factors associated with infection in chicken slaughtered at Triângulo Mineiro region, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Gonçalves Karina Costa Coelho , Amendoeira Maria Regina Reis , Carrijo Kênia De Fátima , Leles Daniela , Nunes Guilherme Mendes Borges , Sudré Adriana Pittella , Góes Gabriela Cardoso , Menezes Rodrigo Caldas , Millar Patricia Riddell
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to determine the occurrence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in the serum of slaughtered chickens in the region of Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais, Brazil, to detect the parasite in tissues (heart and brain) of serologically positive chickens, based on molecular analysis, and to investigate risk variables associated with the infection. Sera from 417 chickens raised in extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive production systems were tested by an indirect immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and indirect hemagglutination antibody test (IHA). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to detect T. gondii DNA in brain and heart tissues. Antibody anti-T. gondii were found in 37.65% (157/417) of chickens by IFAT, and in 75.06% (313/417) by IHA. The Kappa index showed a weak concordance between the techniques (0.087). Association was observed between seropositivity and the variables, age (p < 0.0001), type of feeding (p < 0.0001) and collective raising with other animal’s species (p < 0.0001). Association, based on IFAT, was not observed between seropositivity and the variables, sex (p = 0.0526), presence of cats (p > 0.9999), and presence of rats (p > 0.9999). Presence of parasite DNA was detected in brain samples from two chickens, which were raised in intensive and semi-intensive production systems. The results suggest the meat of these slaughtered animals may serve as a transmission source of this protozoan to humans.
Postinfarction Myocardial Calcifications on Cardiac Computed Tomography
Authors: Alyesh Daniel M. , Siontis Konstantinos C. , Sharaf Dabbagh Ghaith , Yokokawa Miki , Njeim Mario , Patel Smita , Morady Fred , Bogun Frank
Published: April 2019

Background:

Postinfarction ventricular tachycardia (VT) generally involves myocardial fibers surrounded by scar. Calcification of scar tissue has been described, but the relationship between calcifications within endocardial scar and VTs is unclear. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of myocardial calcifications as detected by cardiac computed tomography (CT) and the benefit for mapping and ablation focusing on nontolerated VTs.

Methods:

Fifty-six consecutive postinfarction patients had a cardiac CT performed before a VT ablation procedure. Another 56 consecutive patients with prior infarction without VT who had cardiac CTs served as a control group.

Results:

Myocardial calcifications were identified in 39 of 56 patients (70%) in the postinfarction group with VT, compared with 6 of 56 patients (11%) in the control group without VT. Calcifications were associated with VT when compared with a control group. A calcification volume of 0.538 cm
3
distinguished patients with calcification-associated VT from patients without calcification-associated VTs (area under the curve, 0.87; sensitivity, 0.87; specificity, 0.88). Myocardial calcifications corresponded to areas of electrical nonexcitability and formed a border for reentry circuits for 49 VTs (33% of all VTs for which target sites were identified) in 24 of 39 patients (62%) with myocardial calcifications. A nonconfluent calcification pattern was associated with VT target sites independent of calcification volume (
P
=0.01).

Conclusions:

Myocardial calcifications detected by cardiac CT in patients with prior infarction are associated with VT. The calcifications correspond to areas of unexcitability and represent a fixed boundary of reentry circuits that can be visualized by CT. Calcifications correspond to effective ablation sites in >1/3 of patients with postinfarction VT.
Local Conduction Velocity in the Presence of Late Gadolinium Enhancement and Myocardial Wall Thinning
Authors: Jang Jihye , Whitaker John , Leshem Eran , Ngo Long H. , Neisius Ulf , Nakamori Shiro , Pashakhanloo Farhad , Menze Bjoern , Manning Warren J. , Anter Elad , Nezafat Reza
Published: April 2019

Background:

Conduction velocity (CV) is an important property that contributes to the arrhythmogenicity of the tissue substrate. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between local CV versus late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and myocardial wall thickness in a swine model of healed left ventricular infarction.

Methods:

Six swine with healed myocardial infarction underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging and electroanatomic mapping. Two healthy controls (one treated with amiodarone and one unmedicated) underwent electroanatomic mapping with identical protocols to establish the baseline CV. CV was estimated using a triangulation technique. LGE+ regions were defined as signal intensity >2 SD than the mean of remote regions, wall thinning+ as those with wall thickness <2 SD than the mean of remote regions. LGE heterogeneity was defined as SD of LGE in the local neighborhood of 5 mm and wall thickness gradient as SD within 5 mm. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance and electroanatomic mapping data were registered, and hierarchical modeling was performed to estimate the mean difference of CV (LGE+/−, wall thinning+/−), or the change of the mean of CV per unit change (LGE heterogeneity, wall thickness gradient).

Results:

Significantly slower CV was observed in LGE+ (0.33±0.25 versus 0.54±0.36 m/s;
P
<0.001) and wall thinning+ regions (0.38±0.28 versus 0.55±0.37 m/s;
P
<0.001). Areas with greater LGE heterogeneity (
P
<0.001) and wall thickness gradient (
P
<0.001) exhibited slower CV.

Conclusions:

Slower CV is observed in the presence of LGE, myocardial wall thinning, high LGE heterogeneity, and a high wall thickness gradient. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance may offer a valuable imaging surrogate for estimating CV, which may support noninvasive identification of the arrhythmogenic substrate.
18-Oxocortisol Synthesis in Aldosterone-Producing Adrenocortical Adenoma and Significance of
KCNJ5
Mutation Status
Authors: Tezuka Yuta , Yamazaki Yuto , Kitada Masaaki , Morimoto Ryo , Kudo Masataka , Seiji Kazumasa , Takase Kei , Kawasaki Yoshihide , Mitsuzuka Koji , Ito Akihiro , Nishikawa Jun , Asai Noriko , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Gomez-Sanchez Celso E. , Ito Sadayoshi , Dezawa Mari , Sasano Hironobu , Satoh Fumitoshi
Published: April 2019

Peripheral 18-oxocortisol (18oxoF) level could contribute to the detection of aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) in patients with primary aldosteronism. However, peripheral 18oxoF varies among such patients, which is a big drawback concerning its clinical application. We studied 48 cases of APA, 35 harboring
KCNJ5
mutation, to clarify the significance of clinical and pathological parameters about peripheral 18oxoF. Peripheral 18oxoF concentration ranged widely from 0.50 to 183.13 ng/dL and correlated positively with intratumoral areas stained positively for steroidogenic enzymes (
P
<0.0001). The peripheral 18oxoF level also correlated significantly with that of circulating aldosterone (
P
<0.0001) but not with that of cortisol, a precursor of 18oxoF. However, a significant correlation was detected between peripheral 18oxoF and intratumoral glucocorticoids (
P
<0.05). In addition, peripheral 18oxoF correlated positively with the number of hybrid cells double positive for 11β-hydroxylase and aldosterone synthase (
P
<0.0001). Comparing between the cases with and those without
KCNJ5
mutation, the
KCNJ5
-mutated group demonstrated a significantly higher concentration of peripheral 18oxoF (28.4±5.6 versus 3.0±0.9 ng/dL,
P
<0.0001) and a larger intratumoral environment including the hybrid cells (
P
<0.001), possibly representing a deviation from normal aldosterone biosynthesis. After multivariate analysis,
KCNJ5
mutation status turned out to be the most associated factor involved in 18oxoF synthesis in APA (
P
<0.0001). Results of our present study first revealed that enhanced 18oxoF synthesis in APA could come from a functional deviation of aldosterone biosynthesis from the normal zona glomerulosa and the utility of peripheral 18oxoF measurement could be influenced by the prevalence of
KCNJ5
mutation in an APA.
2017 Pediatric Hypertension Guidelines Improve Prediction of Adult Cardiovascular Outcomes
Authors: Du Tingting , Fernandez Camilo , Barshop Rupert , Chen Wei , Urbina Elaine M. , Bazzano Lydia A.
Published: April 2019

We aimed to evaluate the consequences of the 2017 pediatric hypertension definitions, compared with the 2004 pediatric hypertension definitions on the prevalence of hypertension and to assess the performance of these 2 sets of guidelines in predicting adult hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). This longitudinal study consisted of 3940 children (47% male; ages 3–18 years) who came from the Bogalusa Heart Study with 36-year follow-up since childhood. Hypertension was identified in 7% and 11% as defined in the 2004 and 2017 guidelines, respectively. The 2004 and 2017 guidelines demonstrated similar associations with adulthood hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and LVH. However, the proportion of children identified as having hypertension who developed adult LVH increased from 12% when defined by the 2004 guidelines to 19% when defined by the 2017 guidelines. Overall, the 329 (8%) children who were reclassified to higher blood pressure categories by the 2017 guidelines were more likely than their propensity score–matched normotensive counterparts to develop hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and LVH in later life, whereas 38 (1%) children who were reclassified to lower blood pressure categories by the 2017 guidelines had similar cardiometabolic outcomes to their propensity score–matched normotensive counterparts. Hence, children who were reclassified to higher blood pressure categories based on 2017 guidelines were at increased risk of developing hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and LVH in later life. The 2017 guidelines identified a group of children with adverse metabolic profile and cardiometabolic outcomes, whose cardiovascular risk seemed to be underestimated using the 2004 guidelines.