bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergetic effect dependence on activated oxygen in the interface of NiOx-modified Pt nanoparticles for the CO oxidation from first-principles
Authors: Yao Zihang , Yang Jiaqiang , Liu Zhang , Shan Bin , Chen Rong , Wen Yanwei , Li Yanli
Published: March 2021

CO oxidation on NiOx-modified Pt nanoparticles follows the Mars–van Krevelen mechanism, and the edge-covered NiOx exhibits higher activity to CO oxidation than the (100) facet due to more active oxygen on the interface.
Plasmon-driven photocatalytic molecular transformations on metallic nanostructure surfaces: mechanistic insights gained from plasmon-enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Chen Kexun , Wang Hui
Published: March 2021

This Review Article elaborates on the insights gained from in situ plasmon-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, which shed light on the complex mechanisms underpinning plasmon-driven photocatalytic molecular transformations on nanostructured metal surfaces.
Facile fabrication of Tl4HgI6 nanostructures as novel antibacterial and antibiofilm agents and photocatalysts in the degradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Karami Maryam , Ghanbari Mojgan , Alshamsi Hassan Abbas , Rashki Somaye , Salavati-Niasari Masoud
Published: March 2021

Nano-Tl4HgI6 was fabricated via a co-precipitation route. It showed efficient antibacterial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Its photocatalytic activity indicated the highest degradation for RhB of around 78%.
Coordination assembly and host–guest chemistry of a triply interlocked [2]catenane
Authors: Yu Weibin , Qiu Feng-Yi , Luo Shi-Ting , Shi Hua-Tian , Yuan Guozan , Wei Xianwen
Published: March 2021

Triply catenated systems composed of two or more discrete coordination-metal cages through mechanical bonds exhibit excellent host–guest behaviors, which can be potentially applied in drug delivery systems.
Modeling biomass hydrothermal carbonization by the maximum information entropy criterion
Authors: Gallifuoco Alberto , Papa Alessandro Antonio , Taglieri Luca
Published: March 2021

The kinetics of biomass hydrothermal carbonization is modeled by the MaxEnt principle, without assuming a reaction network. Modeling is in good accordance with the experimental data concerning a broad range of biomass and reaction conditions.
Collagen hydroxylysine glycosylation: non-conventional substrates for atypical glycosyltransferase enzymes
Authors: De Giorgi Francesca , Fumagalli Marco , Scietti Luigi , Forneris Federico
Published: March 2021

Collagen is a major constituent of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that confers fundamental mechanical properties to tissues. To allow proper folding in triple-helices and organization in quaternary super-structures, collagen molecules require essential post-translational modifications (PTMs), including hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues, and subsequent attachment of glycan moieties (galactose and glucose) to specific hydroxylysine residues on procollagen alpha chains. The resulting galactosyl-hydroxylysine (Gal-Hyl) and less abundant glucosyl-galactosyl-hydroxylysine (Glc-Gal-Hyl) are amongst the simplest glycosylation patterns found in nature and are essential for collagen and ECM homeostasis. These collagen PTMs depend on the activity of specialized glycosyltransferase enzymes. Although their biochemical reactions have been widely studied, several key biological questions about the possible functions of these essential PTMs are still missing. In addition, the lack of three-dimensional structures of collagen glycosyltransferase enzymes hinders our understanding of the catalytic mechanisms producing this modification, as well as the impact of genetic mutations causing severe connective tissue pathologies. In this mini-review, we summarize the current knowledge on the biochemical features of the enzymes involved in the production of collagen glycosylations and the current state-of-the-art methods for the identification and characterization of this important PTM.
High-Fidelity Simulation Improves Long-Term Knowledge of Clinical Swallow Evaluation
Authors: Bartlett Rebecca S. , Bruecker Savannah , Eccleston Bobby
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Clinical swallow evaluation (CSE) is a critical skill that speech-language pathologists who manage swallowing impairment must learn. The objective of this mixed-methods study was to determine if using a human patient simulator (HPS) to train speech-language pathology graduate students in CSE improved knowledge, preparedness, and anxiety as compared to traditional instruction alone.

Method

This was a controlled trial with repeated measures. Participants included graduate students from two cohorts who were enrolled in a swallowing disorders course in consecutive academic years (n= 50). Students in the experimental group participated in a simulation experience in which they performed a CSE on an HPS, generated a treatment plan, and communicated in real time with the HPS, the patient's wife, and a nurse. Quantitative results included quizzes that measured short- and long-term CSE knowledge, and qualitative findings included written feedback from instructors and students.

Results

Students who participated in simulation training had significantly higher long-term quiz accuracy than the control group, but their short-term quiz scores did not differ. Student ratings of preparedness and anxiety did not differ between the two groups. Many students reported that they appreciated practicing the use of patient-friendly language and preferred clinical simulation over traditional teaching methods. Facilitators reported that simulation increased student engagement and critical thinking skills more than traditional teaching methods.

Conclusions

CSE simulation provided objective and subjective advantages over traditional teaching methods. Recommendations from students and instructors for improving the CSE simulation training are reported.
Flocking of multi‐agent system with dynamic topology by pinning control
Authors: Yan Tingruo , Xu Xu , Li Zongying , Li Eric
Published: March 2021

The flocking of a multi‐agent system with dynamic topology is investigated in this study. A switching control law is developed to achieve the flocking by adding the controls from some of type II uninformed agents to their closest informed agent including the non‐linear relative velocity feedback. The multiple Lyapunov functions are then constructed and a stable analysis for the flocking is given based on the LaSalle invariance principle. It is proven that the energy is bounded at all time, and asymptotically converges to the state of minimum energy; the velocities of all the agents approach the velocity of the virtual leader asymptotically; no collision happens between the mobile agents. The effects of the number of informed agents and non‐linear relative velocity feedbacks on the flocking are also investigated. It is shown that fewer informed agents in comparison with existing methods can guarantee stable flocking, which is very significant in some practical applications for secure communication.
Probe‐fed dipole antenna with parasitic patches for wideband and wide‐scanning planar phased arrays
Authors: Wang Bao , Lin Xian Qi , Cai Yang , Nie Li Ying
Published: March 2021

A probe‐fed dipole antenna with parasitic patches is proposed in this study as the element for wideband and wide‐scanning planar‐phased arrays. Parasitic patches are used to realize wideband performance by significantly reducing the active input impendence. The printed dipole antenna with parasitic patches is directly matched with the subminiature version A (SMA) connector through the modified probe structure. The cell size is 0.5 × 0.5 × 0.145 λhigh3. The planar and low‐profile characteristics make it suitable for modular phased array applications. It is shown that the infinite array simulation results achieve 45.2% bandwidth (7.86–12.45 GHz) with active voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) < 2 at broadside, 60° scans in E‐, D‐planes and 50° scan in H‐plane. An 8 × 8 prototype array has been manufactured and measured to validate the proposed design and the active element patterns agree well with simulation results.
In‐band radar cross‐section reduction of the slot array antennas by RAM‐based frequency selective surfaces
Authors: Noorbakhsh Bagher , Abdolali Ali , Janforooz Mahdi
Published: March 2021

A method for reducing radar cross‐section (RCS) of the slot array antenna by utilising the radar absorbing material, while preserving the radiation performance simultaneously, is proposed and discussed. The scheme is based on the implementation of the multilayer frequency selective surface‐radar‐absorbing material (RAM) capable of operation over a wide frequency band. The use of radar absorbing material on an antenna’s radiation screen causes a change in surface current, resulting in the radiation pattern of the antenna. Therefore, by designing the coating pattern of the radar absorbent material as a substrate and a capacitive patch as a unit cell on the antenna board, the reduction of 19 dB RCS at X‐band and minimum antenna gain loss (3dB) is achieved. To demonstrate the proposed solution, a 30‐cm diameter slot array antenna, which is considered as a test case, is coated by RAM and radar cross section reduction (RCSR) is dramatically accomplished over a frequency band ranging from 8 to 12 GHz. It is worth mentioning that the obtained RCSR at 9.4 GHz is as much as 19 dB. Subsequently, the proposed method can be a candidate for reduction of RCS in slot array antennas, considering the remarkable RCSR and acceptable effect on radiation characteristics.
Direction finding and beamforming using cylindrical array of dipole antennas in the presence of cylindrical scatterer/reflector including the mutual coupling effect
Authors: Poormohammad Sarah , Farzaneh Forouhar , Banai Ali
Published: March 2021

Three‐dimensional dipole arrays are normally used at the proximity of a reflective structure. Filamentary short‐circuited dipoles are proposed to model the effect of the reflector structure. The computational burden is significantly reduced by using mutual impedance matrices. An analytical method of modelling the effect of the cylindrical reflector in a three‐dimensional cylindrical geometry of dipole antenna arrays is introduced both for direction finding and beamforming applications in the presence of mutual coupling. The results of the implementation of the MUSIC (multiple signal classification) direction‐finding algorithm show that the proposed model for accounting the cylindrical reflector, in the presence of a mutual coupling effect, has the required efficiency and reduced root‐mean‐square‐error (RMSE). Monte‐Carlo simulations for the beamforming algorithm are conducted to evaluate the signal‐to‐interference ratio (SIR) values in the presence of a cylindrical reflector and the results show that the model has the desired performance. The whole process of beamforming and pattern generation has been verified through high‐frequency structural simulator (HFSS) simulation. The simplicity, adequate precision and low computational cost of this method can be appropriately used in the cylindrical reflector/scatterer in three‐dimensional geometries, especially for base station applications.
Wideband circularly polarized cross‐dipole antenna with folded ground plane
Authors: Wang Lei , Chen Ke‐wen , Huang Quan , Shao Wei‐heng , Fang Wen‐xiao , Lu Guo‐Guang , Huang Yun , En Yun‐fei
Published: March 2021

A wideband circularly polarized (CP) cross‐dipole antenna with folded ground plane is presented. The antenna consists of an L‐shaped stepped patch as driven elements and four rotated L‐shaped metallic ground strips as parasitic elements. A sequential phase feeding structure is used to provide 90° phase difference, which is composed of a pair of vacant‐quarter printed rings. It is noticed that the four rotated parasitic L‐shaped metallic ground strips and ground plane are directly connected to form a folded ground plane instead of the traditional disconnection between parasitic elements and ground plane. By using these elements, multiple CP resonances can be excited to meet the requirement for the wideband CP radiation. The presented antenna shows outstanding CP feature with a broad axial‐ratio bandwidth (ARBW) of 85.7% (1.3–3.25 GHz) and a wide impedance bandwidth (IBW) of 100% (0.95–2.85 GHz).
All‐optical control of spatial beam intensity in multimode fibres by polarisation modulation
Authors: Anjum Omar F. , Guasoni Massimiliano , Petropoulos Periklis
Published: March 2021

The authors demonstrate that by injecting a combination of LP11 modes in a few‐mode high‐birefringence fibres that all‐optical control of the spatial beam intensity at the fibre output is achieved by varying the polarisation at the fibre input. These results may be generalised to the cases where different and several higher order modes are employed.
Overcoming the settling time challenge of initial alignment of strapdown inertial navigation system by a novel solution
Authors: Jameian Hassan , Safarinejadian Behrouz
Published: March 2021

This study investigates two fundamental challenges in the initial alignment of strapdown inertial navigation systems and presents creative solutions to overcome these challenges. The first challenge is to determine the settling time in different operating conditions such as stationary, quasistationary, in‐motion, etc. The proposed solution to this challenge is to adjust the settling time of the initial alignment adaptively by evaluating the initial attitude matrix computed using the vector observations instead of allocating a fixed interval time for settling time. The second challenge is the existence of uncertainties in the vector observations, which adversely affect the initial alignment performance. The proposed solution to this challenge is to evaluate the quality of the vector observations used in the initial alignment by a real‐time algorithm. Appropriate weights are assigned to vector observations instead of allocating a uniform weight to all vectors, depending on the vector observation's quality. The capability and performance of the proposed solutions are evaluated using different experimental scenarios such as three‐axis rate table and vehicle tests.
Simulation framework for activity recognition and benchmarking in different radar geometries
Authors: Zhou Boyu , Lin Yier , Le Kernec Julien , Yang Shufan , Fioranelli Francesco , Romain Olivier , Zhao Zhiqin
Published: March 2021

Radar micro‐Doppler signatures have been proposed for human monitoring and activity classification for surveillance and outdoor security, as well as for ambient assisted living in healthcare‐related applications. A known issue is the performance reduction when the target is moving tangentially to the line of sight of the radar. Multiple techniques have been proposed to address this, such as multistatic radar and to some extent, interferometric (IF) radar. A simulator is presented to generate synthetic data representative of eight radar systems (monostatic, circular multistatic and in‐line multistatic [IM] and IF) to quantify classification performances as a function of aspect angles and deployment geometries. This simulator allows an unbiased performance evaluation of different radar systems. Six human activities are considered with signatures originating from motion‐captured data of 14 different subjects. The classification performances are analysed as a function of aspect angles ranging from 0° to 90° per activity and overall. It demonstrates that IF configurations are more robust than IM configurations. However, IM performs better at angles below 55° before IF configurations take over.
Analysis of current density in the electrode and electrolyte of lithium‐ion cells for ageing estimation applications
Authors: Javadipour Mehrnaz , Mehran Kamyar
Published: March 2021

Lithium‐ion battery is the commonly used energy storage technology in electric vehicles (EVs) because of its inexpensive manufacturing cost and high energy capacity. For optimal utilization of its capacity and lifetime, reliable state of health (SoH) monitoring solutions have to be included in the battery management system (BMS). SoH of a cell is affected by several reasons such as internal degradation or external damages that need to be estimated. This article analyses the current density in electrode and electrolyte of an EV lithium‐ion cell using a simulation assisted method that leads to improvement in SoH estimation accuracy. The experimental results are analysed through the fusion of the magnetic field images captured by quantum fluxgate magnetometers, installed on the surface of the cell, together with the real‐time simulation of the multi‐physics model of the cell. The magnetic field sensors measure the magnetic field intensity with an accuracy of ±2 mT. The real‐time simulation input data is updated from the measurements of both the magnetic field sensors and the battery cycler. The multi‐physics model of the cell is developed in COMSOL modelling software, and real‐time data fusion process is implemented on dSPACE Microlabbox real‐time simulator. Results confirm that the proposed monitoring solution provides useful insight that can be employed in ageing estimation of EV batteries.
Distributed consensus‐based routing protocol with multiple mobile sinks support for wireless sensor network
Authors: Khalid Nor Azimah , Bai Quan , Al‐Anbuky Adnan
Published: March 2021

Non‐uniform node distribution in a randomly deployed network causes inefficient routing when some abnormality or events at certain parts of the network cannot be detected due to a coverage hole problem. Existing works to improve routing efficiency in randomly deployed network utilise mobile sink to prolong nodes lifetime is either centred around the static sink or movement through random patterns. Few works had considered multiple mobile sinks to route packets in such network distribution. In fact, important aspect such as collaborations among mobile sinks is not well considered, where the decision made by each mobile sink in most existing approaches tend to maximise the individual sink's utility rather than benefiting wider parts of the network. Thus, a decision based on consensus may benefit more parties and eventually lead to better decision. A distributed collaboration mechanism may assist nodes mobility in improving routing efficiency. Thus, the authors proposed the consensus‐based routing protocol, which aims to improve routing efficiency in randomly deployed network, by deciding relocation of mobile sinks based on coverage factor, in order to reduce energy consumption, providing more balance sinks distribution and better network coverage. Simulation results show good performances of proposed approach in terms of nodes lifetime, energy consumption, delay, packet delivery ratio and coverage hole, compared to other existing protocols.
New predictions for radiation-driven, steady-state mass-loss and wind-momentum from hot, massive stars
Authors: Björklund R. , Sundqvist J. O. , Puls J. , Najarro F.
Published: March 2021

Context. Reliable predictions of mass-loss rates are important for massive-star evolution computations.

Aims. We aim to provide predictions for mass-loss rates and wind-momentum rates of O-type stars, while carefully studying the behaviour of these winds as functions of stellar parameters, such as luminosity and metallicity.

Methods. We used newly developed steady-state models of radiation-driven winds to compute the global properties of a grid of O-stars. The self-consistent models were calculated by means of an iterative solution to the equation of motion using full non-local thermodynamic equilibrium radiative transfer in the co-moving frame to compute the radiative acceleration. In order to study winds in different galactic environments, the grid covers main-sequence stars, giants, and supergiants in the Galaxy and both Magellanic Clouds.

Results. We find a strong dependence of mass-loss on both luminosity and metallicity. Mean values across the grid are Ṁ~L*2.2 and Ṁ~L*0.95; however, we also find a somewhat stronger dependence on metallicity for lower luminosities. Similarly, the mass loss-luminosity relation is somewhat steeper for the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) than for the Galaxy. In addition, the computed rates are systematically lower (by a factor 2 and more) than those commonly used in stellar-evolution calculations. Overall, our results are in good agreement with observations in the Galaxy that properly account for wind-clumping, with empirical Ṁ versus Z* scaling relations and with observations of O-dwarfs in the SMC.

Conclusions. Our results provide simple fit relations for mass-loss rates and wind momenta of massive O-stars stars as functions of luminosity and metallicity, which are valid in the range Teff = 28 000–45 000 K. Due to the systematically lower values for Ṁ, our new models suggest that new rates might be needed in evolution simulations of massive stars.
Study on switching principle of thyristor assisted arc extinguishing hybrid OLTC
Authors: Yin Yu , Gao Fei , Shi Fei , Jia Peng-Fei , Ding Ben-Ping , Hao Lu-Ning , Zhang Lei , Liu Chao
Published: March 2021

Thyristor assisted arc extinguishing hybrid on load tap changer has the advantages of both mechanical switch and thyristor switch. It has strong ability to withstand overload, over-current and overvoltage, high reliability, small maintenance workload and frequent voltage regulation operation. It is a promising on load tap changer of transformer. This paper introduces the principle of passive trigger of thyristor module, gives the switching principle and process of thyristor assisted arc extinguishing hybrid on load tap changer, and analyses the characteristics of hybrid on load tap changer.
A Preliminary Study on the Compliant Stretcher Mechanism of Canopy
Authors: Kit Yee Sara Lee , Sheng Lam Yeap , Li Tan Yong
Published: March 2021

The design of the canopy utilizes the conventional rigid body mechanisms which is vulnerable to the presence of backlash, friction of joints or wearing of mechanical parts which lead to short product life. Compliant mechanisms are employed to reduce these mechanical problems, owing to their zero-joint and monolithic structure. A reference design for the conventional canopy was chosen and modified through reviewing different patent designs. Six different configurations of the pseudo-rigid-body model (PRBM) were constructed, and the best configuration was selected. Kinematic synthesis with function generation was performed for the chosen PRBM using MATLAB. The obtained results from the kinematic synthesis were then used to calculate the dimensions and stresses of the flexural pivots for the compliant stretcher mechanism. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulation was then performed on each of the models and the obtained flexural pivot stresses were compared with that of the PRBM. This research successfully replaces all the rigid joints and links of the stretcher mechanism of the conventional canopy to form a monolithic structure of compliant stretcher mechanism.
Wear problem for tube with thin nonuniform inner coating and rigid insert with complex profile
Authors: Kazakov Kirill E. , Kurdina Svetlana P.
Published: March 2021

The article describes the formulation of the problem of wear of an elastic pipe with a nonuniform internal coating by a rigid insert, the diameter of which is variable. For this problem, a mathematical model is built, which is a mixed integral equation. The resulting integral equation contains functions related to the variable properties of the coating and the shape of the insert. When constructing an analytical solution, a special approach was used, since standard methods do not allow taking into account the presence of rapidly changing functions in the equation, which can describe the shapes and properties of materials. In the resulting solution, the functions describing the variable properties of the coating and the profile of the insertion are separated by separate terms. This allows you to always get accurate results.
Model for economic optimization and economic assessment of energy saving
Authors: Anzhela Zahitovna Namitulina , Viktor Vladimirovich Gorlov , Irina Vladimirovna Soklakova , Natalia Nikolaevna Natocheeva , Madina Akhmambetovna Azhmuratova
Published: March 2021

The current energy scenario should be examined from a global perspective and include models for optimizing the development and development of major renewable energy sources. The complex structural elements of such models in terms of the structure of energy consumption should include economic and environmental benefits, as well as minimize costs and negative consequences. At the current crisis stage, access to energy sources is an important asset for economic progress and world development of all states. The depletion of natural resources, ecosystem and climate change lead to the need for scientific research in the field of sustainable development and the use of various models of energy conservation to achieve social and economic growth. Renewable energy sources such as solar, geothermal, wind and others are the basis for the development of new concepts and models for economic optimization and renewable energy. The key role in the implementation of such models is played by maintaining the ecological balance and renewing energy using natural and natural resources.
Chemical characterization of oil from four Avocado varieties cultivated in Morocco
Authors: Nasri Chaimae , Halabi Yasmina , Harhar Hicham , Mohammed Faez , Bellaouchou Abdelkabir , Guenbour Abdallah , Tabyaoui Mohamed
Published: March 2021

The notable growth in the use of avocado oil in the nutritional and cosmetic field was the main objective to valorize the oil production of important varieties of avocados existing in Morocco by analyzing its chemical composition in fatty acids, sterols, tocopherols and its physico-chemical properties. Oleic acid is the main fatty acid in the oil; they constitute between 50 and 65% of the total fatty acids. The study of the unsaponifiable fraction revealed that avocado oil contains 3259.9–5378.8 mg/kg sterols and 113.13–332.17 mg/kg tocopherols. Chemo-metric tools were employed in manner optimization, such as principal component analysis, agglomerative hierarchical clustering, analysis of variance, and classification trees using Chi-squared Automatic Interaction Detector. Chemo-metric tools revealed a difference in the composition of fatty acid, sterols, and tocopherol of avocado oil samples. This difference resulted from a variety of avocado fruits. Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering (AHC) method was efficient distinguishing avocado oil samples based on fruit variety using fatty acids, tocopherols, sterol compositions and total sterol. Principal component analysis (PCA) method allowed the distinction the set avocado oil dataset based on fruit varieties, supplied a correct discrimination rate of 95.44% for avocado fruit varieties using the fatty acid. Chi-squared Automatic Interaction Detector (CHAID) carried out using the same variables, also provided an acceptable classification rate of 50% for avocado fruit varieties using the total tocopherol content. Besides, a comparative study of the physico-chemical properties in terms of acidity index, saponification index, iodine index, chlorophylls, carotenoids, and methyl and ethyl esters was performed.
Second-order efficient optimality conditions for set-valued vector optimization in terms of asymptotic contingent epiderivatives
Authors: Tung Nguyen Minh
Published: March 2021

We propose a generalized second-order asymptotic contingent epiderivative of a set-valued mapping, study its properties, as well as relations to some second-order contingent epiderivatives, and sufficient conditions for its existence. Then, using these epiderivatives, we investigate set-valued optimization problems with generalized inequality constraints. Both second-order necessary conditions and sufficient conditions for optimality of the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker type are established under the second-order constraint qualification. An application to Mond–Weir and Wolfe duality schemes is also presented. Some remarks and examples are provided to illustrate our results.
Die deutsche Version der Level of Personality Functioning Scale-Brief Form 2.0 (LPFS-BF): Faktorenstruktur, konvergente Validität und Normwerte in der Allgemeinbevölkerung
Authors: Spitzer Carsten , Müller Steffen , Kerber André , Hutsebaut Joost , Brähler Elmar , Zimmermann Johannes
Published: March 2021

Das alternative DSM-5-Modell der Persönlichkeitsstörungen definiert als Kernmerkmal aller Persönlichkeitsstörungen das Funktionsniveau der Persönlichkeit, das wiederum über Probleme mit dem Selbst (Selbstpathologie) und Probleme im zwischenmenschlichen Bereich (interpersonale Pathologie) operationalisiert wird. Als kurzes Selbstbeurteilungsverfahren zur Diagnostik des Funktionsniveaus der Persönlichkeit ist die 12 Items umfassende Level of Personality Functioning Scale-Brief Form 2.0 (LPFS-BF) von einer niederländischen Arbeitsgruppe entwickelt worden. In dieser Studie wurde die deutsche Version der LPFS-BF erstmals an einer großen und repräsentativen Allgemeinbevölkerungsstichprobe (n=2470) sowie einer zweiten nicht-klinischen Stichprobe (n=849) auf ihre Faktorenstruktur und konvergente Validität hin psychometrisch evaluiert und auch normiert. In beiden Stichproben konnte mittels konfirmatorischer Faktorenanalyse die theoretisch postulierte und im Original empirisch bestätigte Zwei-Faktoren-Struktur (d. h. Selbst- und interpersonale Pathologie) mit akzeptabler Anpassungsgüte repliziert werden. Die Reliabilität der Gesamtskala sowie der beiden Subskalen (operationalisiert über die interne Konsistenz) war in beiden Stichproben hoch (McDonalds ω durchweg≥0,83). Als Hinweis auf eine zufriedenstellende konvergente Validität fanden sich hohe Korrelationen der deutschen Version der LPFS-BF mit anderen Verfahren zur Erfassung der Persönlichkeitspathologie (r≥0,72). Der Zusammenhang mit aktueller psychischer Belastung war ähnlich hoch. In der Allgemeinbevölkerung lagen der Durchschnittswert (T50) der Gesamtskala der LPFS-BF bei 15 und T70 bei 33. Auch wenn psychometrische Analysen zur deutschen LPFS-BF bei Patienten mit psychischen Störungen, insbesondere jenen mit Persönlichkeitsstörungen, ausstehen, kann das Verfahren aufgrund seiner Anwendungsökonomie zur orientierenden Erfassung des Funktionsniveaus der Persönlichkeit mit den Dimensionen der Selbst- und interpersonalen Pathologie empfohlen werden.
The Effects of Water Immersion during First Stage of Labor on Postpartum Systemic Inflammatory Response
Authors: Yorgancı Ayçağ , Buyuk Gul Nihal , Akyol Mesut , Gündüz Özlem , Seven Banu , Engin-Ustun Yaprak
Published: March 2021

Objective The systemic inflammatory response is a cascade of physiologic reactions that arise in response to trauma, infection, burn, or any kind of injury. This study aimed to determine the effects of water immersion during the first stage of labor on the systemic inflammatory indices in the postpartum period.

Materials and methods In this retrospective study, 125 healthy multiparous women with uncomplicated pregnancies between 37 and 41 weeks of gestation who elected for immersion in water during the first stage of labor were compared with multiparous uncomplicated term women who had conventional vaginal births on land (n=125). Age, parity, body mass index (BMI), gestational age, duration of labor, birth weight, Apgar scores, neonatal intensive care unit admissions, and ante- and postpartum whole blood parameters were noted. Antepartum and postpartum neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and mean platelet volume (MPV) were calculated for all patients as systemic inflammatory indices.

Results Demographic characteristics and birth outcomes of both groups were similar except BMI, which was statistically significantly higher in the water immersion group. There were no statistical differences in antepartum NLR, MLR, PLR, and MPV between the 2 groups. However, postpartum NLR, MLR, PLR, and MPV were statistically significantly lower in the water immersion group compared to the controls.

Conclusion Water immersion during the first stage of labor might decrease systemic inflammatory indices in the early postpartum period.
Gibt es ihn, den göttlichen Lohn? Spiritualität/Religiosität (S/R) bewahrt vor Arbeitsunzufriedenheit und verringert dadurch die Stressbelastung
Authors: Queri Silvia Katharina
Published: March 2021

Hintergrund Zunehmender Arbeitsstress wird für die steigenden AU-Tage aufgrund psychischer Störungen verantwortlich gemacht. Viele individuelle und strukturelle Stressursachen sind als Haupteffekte identifiziert, mögliche kompensatorische Wechselwirkungen/Interaktionen dieser im Verständnis des Person-Environment-Fit-Ansatzes noch größtenteils unbekannt. Es wurde die Hypothese geprüft, inwieweit S/R bei Vorliegen einer Gratifikationskrise (Arbeitsunzufriedenheit), also einem Missverhältnis aus Belohnung und Anstrengung, stressmindernd wirkt.

Methode Standardisierte Fragebogen erfassten querschnittlich das Ausmaß an Stress (TICS), an Gratifikationskrise (ERI) und an S/R (SBI) bei Mitarbeitern in der psychiatrischen Rehabilitation (n=243) multizentrisch in Bayern und Baden-Württemberg. Der Moderatoreffekt (Interaktion) wurde varianzanalytisch getestet.

Ergebnisse Das Moderatormodell konnte nicht bestätigt werden, aber ein indirekter adaptiver Zusammenhang zwischen S/R und Stressbelastung, indem religiös-spirituelle Mitarbeiter/-innen sich v. a. stärker belohnt fühlen, also erst gar nicht in eine stresserzeugende Gratifikationskrise kommen. Kommt Gottes Lohn additiv hinzu?

Schlussfolgerung Wir gehen nun theoretisch von einem Prozessmodell als Arbeitshypothese für weitere Untersuchungen aus, da unser querschnittliches Design und die korrelativen Zusammenhänge ein solches Sequenzmodell nicht belegen können. Dieser Befund ist gesundheitspsychologisch für die Stressprävention relevant.
Simple and Efficient Synthesis of Allyl Sulfones through Cs2CO3-Mediated Radical Sulfonylation of Morita–Baylis–Hillman Adducts with Thiosulfonates
Authors: Reddy Raju Jannapu , Shankar Angothu , Waheed Md.
Published: March 2021

A highly efficient and eco-friendly method has been developed for the synthesis of allyl sulfones using Morita–Baylis–Hillman (MBH) adducts and thiosulfonates under mild conditions. The Cs2CO3-promoted radical sulfonylation provided a series of allyl sulfones in good to high yields with high stereoselectivities. A wide variety of MBH bromides/acetates as well as thiosulfonates were tolerated and reliable in scaled-up synthesis. A plausible mechanism is proposed to rationalize the radical sulfonylation.
Atropisomerism in Styrene: Synthesis, Stability, and Applications
Authors: Gu Zhenhua , Feng Jia
Published: March 2021

Atropisomeric styrenes are a class of optically active compounds, the chirality of which results from restricted rotation of the C(vinyl)–C(aryl) single bond. In comparison with biaryl atropisomers, the less rigid skeleton of styrenes usually leads them to have lower rotational barriers. Although it has been overlooked for a long time, scientists have paid attention to this class of unique molecules in recent years and have developed many methods for the preparation of optically active atropisomeric styrenes. In this article, we review the development of the concept of atropisomeric styrenes, along with their isolation, asymmetric synthesis, and synthetic applications.

1 Introduction

2 The Concept of Styrene Atropisomerism

3 Early Research: Separation of Optically Active Styrenes

4 Synthesis of Optically Active Styrenes

5 Stability of the Chirality of Atropisomeric Styrenes

6 Outlook
CO2-Belastung durch Speisen: Menüwahl für das Klima
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: March 2021

Wenn sich Klinikeinkäufer den Themen Nachhaltigkeit und Klimafreundlichkeit widmen, kommen sie um die Küche nicht herum. Beim Speisenangebot für Patienten und Mitarbeiter haben sie viele Möglichkeiten, die CO2-Belastung zu senken. Wer die Klimabilanz jedes Gerichts transparent ausweist, kann auch die Auswahl beeinflussen.
Jumping Mechanography is a Suitable Complementary Method to Assess Motor Function in Ambulatory Boys with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Blaschek Astrid , Rodrigues Martin , Rawer Rainer , Müller Christine , Ille Lena , Schröder Sebastian , Idriess Mohamed , Müller-Felber Wolfgang , Vill Katharina
Published: March 2021

Objective The number of clinical trials for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has increased substantially lately, therefore appropriate clinical instruments are needed to measure disease progression and drug efficacy. Jumping mechanography is a medical diagnostic method for motion analysis, which allows to quantify physical parameters. In this study, we compared mechanography with timed function tests (TFTs).

Methods 41 ambulatory DMD patients performed a total of 95 chair rising tests (CRT) and a total of 76 single two-legged jumps (S2LJ) on a mechanography ground reaction force platform. The results were correlated with a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and the time required to run 10 meters, stand up from a supine position, and climb four stairs, all performed in the same setting.

Results Our measurements show a high correlation between mechanography and the TFTs: S2LJ/10-m run, r = 0.62; CRT/10-m run, r = 0.61; S2LJ/standing up from supine, r = 0.48; CRT/standing up from supine, r = 0.58; S2LJ/climb four stairs, r = 0.55; CRT/climb four stairs, r = 0.51. The correlation between mechanography and the 6MWT was only moderate with r = 0.38 for S2LJ/6MWT and r = 0.39 for CRT/6MWT.

Interpretation Jumping mechanography is a reliable additional method, which can be used for physical endpoint measurements in clinical trials. We confirmed our assumption, that the method provides additional information concerning performance at movement with higher power output. We suggest using the S2LJ as a first-choice tandem tool combined with the 6MWT. In patients with higher disability, the CRT is an alternative measuring method, because with the progression of the disease this is longer feasible.
Role of Free Radicals, Glutamate Toxicity, Glutathione Depletion in Apoptosis of Cochlear Hair Cells, Neuronal Cells among Patients with Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Udagatti Vithal D. , Kumar Rajendran Dinesh , Samorekar Arjunsing Vijaysing , KR Vaibhavi
Published: March 2021

Introduction Hearing loss may lead to depression, decreased quality of life, reduced functional status and social isolation. The glutathione-S transferase (GSTS) is an antioxidant scavenging enzyme. Decreased glutathione and GSTS activity levels lead to an increase in susceptibility of hair-cell damage leading to sensorineural hearing loss. The cumulative effect of oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage by free radicals results in the mutation/deletion of deoxyribonucleic acid, leading to decline in mitochondrial function, which in turn plays an important role in inducing apoptosis of the cochlear cells. Other risk factors also include noise exposure, genetic predisposition, health comorbidities, ototoxic drugs, infections, and immune-mediated inflammation of auditory cells.

Study Design Prospective, non-comparative, metacentric clinical study.

Materials and Methods The study was carried out in 30 patients from 6/5/2016 to 10/1/2018. Total of 30 patients of sensorineural hearing loss were enrolled (17 males, 13 females). Clinical history, ENT examination, and audiogram were done, treatment duration of 8 weeks for each patient and followed up to 3 outpatient visits. The patient was administered rebamipide 100 mg, alpha lipoic acid 100 mg, and acetylcysteine 100 mg capsules twice a day for a total period of 8 weeks. Wherever giddiness was an added symptom, Cinnarizine 20mg with Diaminehydrate 40 mg combination twice a day was added up to complete relief of symptoms, thereafter once a day as maintenance dose over a period of 8 weeks. Wherever tinnitus was an added symptom, deflazacort 6 mg twice a day was added and tapered up to 1 month. If the symptom of tinnitus persisted, intratympanic steroid injection was given. During every visit, clinical assessment and audiogram were repeated.

Results Our study demonstrated greater improvement in hearing at higher frequencies with 8 weeks of rebamipide 100 mg + alpha lipoic acid 100 mg + acetylcysteine 100 mg administration in 30 patients with twice-daily dosing.

Conclusion Synthesis of free radicals in the inner ear may play an important part in the pathogenesis of sensory hearing loss. The combination of rebamipide 100 mg + alpha lipoic acid 100 mg + acetylcysteine 100 mg is effective prophylaxis in sensorineural hearing loss that addresses both factors of inhibiting the cochlear cell damage and enhancing cochlear cell preservation.
Repeated Cerebral Infarction Immediately after Bypass Graft Angiography: A Case Report
Authors: Monden Masaki , Murata Nobuhiro , Takahashi Kurara , Fukamachi Daisuke , Okumura Yasuo
Published: March 2021

A cerebral infarction (CI) is a common complication of coronary angiography (CAG); however, repeated CIs in the immediate period after a CAG have not been reported yet. The patient in the present study experienced left upper quadrant blindness immediately after internal thoracic arteriography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a high-intensity area in the right occipital lobe. Despite the administration of antithrombotic therapy, the patient became transiently comatose for 6 hours. MRI showed a new high-intensity area in the left thalamus. A noninvasive assessment should be considered before internal thoracic arteriography to prevent the risk of complications.
A Case of Musicogenic Epilepsy
Authors: Bhandari Ankkita Sharma , Gourie-Devi Mandaville , Kumar Praveen , Khanna Laxmi
Published: March 2021

Musicogenic epilepsy is a relatively rare form of epilepsy characterized by seizures triggered by specific music experiences, with an estimated prevalence of 1/10,000,000 population. In this article, we reported a case of 12-year-old boy patient with a history of recent onset focal seizures associated with an aura of formed visual hallucinations, feeling of familiarity (déjà vu), and impending fear lasting for seconds to a minute followed by eye blinking, oral automatisms, and unresponsiveness for almost 15 minutes. These episodes, most often, were provoked by music. Video electroencephalogram (EEG) done in our institute was suggestive of reflex musicogenic epilepsy arising from the left anterior temporal lobe. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain 3T with epilepsy protocol confirmed video EEG findings, with an abnormal signal intensity in the left hippocampal and mesial temporal lobe. Treatment included lifestyle modification and antiepileptic drugs.
Automated wide-ranged finely tunable microwave cavity for narrowband phase noise filtering
Authors: Joshi Yash J. , Sauerwein Nick , Youssefi Amir , Uhrich Philipp , Kippenberg Tobias J.
Published: March 2021

Narrowband microwave filters have wide ranging applications, including the reduction in phase noise of microwave sources within a given frequency band. The prospect of developing an automated filter that tunes itself to an arbitrary desired frequency at maximum extinction promises many experimental advantages such as an enhanced efficiency in performing fine frequency detuning scans and saving time and effort as compared to manual tuning. We design, construct, and program such an automated system and present its hardware and software for reproducibility. It consists of a cylindrical cavity filter and two motors, which change the cavity length and the coupling strength of the microwave field into the cavity, respectively. By measuring the cavity response, an algorithm implemented in Python optimizes these two parameters to achieve the tuning of the filter cavity to the desired frequency with a precision of around 20 kHz, which is significantly better than the cavity linewidth (∼1 MHz). We also demonstrate the suppression of phase noise at the desired frequency by more than 10 dB.
Comparative study of the metal insulator transition of a VO2 film with simultaneous infrared thermography and electric measurements
Authors: Liu Baoshun , Gong Mengtao , Zhang Jun , Tian Shouqin , Zhao Xiujian
Published: March 2021

Metal–insulator transition (MIT) of a polycrystalline VO2 film was studied with simultaneous electric resistance and infrared thermographic measurements. The apparent temperatures (Tapp,s) determined from infrared thermography show an obvious thermal hysteresis over the MIT that could match with the electric resistance very well. The dynamic change in the emissivity (ε) over the MIT was obtained from the Tapp,s hysteresis. The MIT parameters, including the critical phase transition temperature, thermal hysteresis width, and transition sharpness, could be obtained from the ε thermal hysteresis, which are in good accordance with those obtained from the electric resistance hysteresis. The temperature coefficient of ε (TCE) was defined, and the TCE change over the MIT was also obtained from ε thermal hysteresis. Based on the effective medium approximation, the fraction of the metallic phase during the MIT was estimated from the ε thermal hysteresis; this is also consistent with that calculated from the electric resistance hysteresis. Our results showed that the infrared thermographic measurement could be a simple and reliable method to study the MIT of VO2 materials.
Stabilizing solution-processed metal oxide thin-film transistors via trilayer organic–inorganic hybrid passivation
Authors: Wei Xiaozhu , Kumagai Shohei , Sasaki Mari , Watanabe Shun , Takeya Jun
Published: March 2021

Solution-processed amorphous metal oxide semiconductors (AOSs) are promising candidates for printed electronics. However, process durability and bias stress instability issues still hinder their practical applications. Here, a poly(methyl methacrylate)/parylene/AlOx hybrid passivation approach was developed for AOS thin-film transistors (TFTs) to overcome these challenges. Notably, AlOx was successfully formed without degrading the AOS TFTs owing to the polymer buffer layers. The hybrid passivation approach ensured the satisfactory stabilization of the TFTs under bias stress owing to the high isolation effect, which could prevent the penetration of environmental molecules. This passivation method can facilitate the application of solution-processed AOSs in integrated circuits.
Energy relaxation path of excited free OH vibration at an air/water interface revealed by nonequilibrium ab initio molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Ishiyama Tatsuya
Published: March 2021

Nonequilibrium ab initio molecular dynamics (NE-AIMD) simulations are conducted at an air/water interface to elucidate the vibrational energy relaxation path of excited non-hydrogen-bonded (free) OH. A recent time-resolved vibrational sum frequency generation (TR-VSFG) spectroscopy experiment revealed that the relaxation time scales of free OH at the surface of pure water and isotopically diluted water are very similar to each other. In the present study, the dynamics of free OH excited at the surface of pure water and deuterated water are examined with an NE-AIMD simulation, which reproduces the experimentally observed features. The relaxation paths are examined by introducing constraints for the bonds and angles of water molecules relevant to specific vibrational modes in NE-AIMD simulations. In the case of free OH relaxation at the pure water surface, stretching vibrational coupling with the conjugate bond makes a significant contribution to the relaxation path. In the case of the isotopically diluted water surface, the bend (HOD)-stretching (OD) combination band couples with the free OH vibration, generating a relaxation rate similar to that in the pure water case. It is also found that the reorientation of the free OH bond contributes substantially to the relaxation of the free OH vibrational frequency component measured by TR-VSFG spectroscopy.