bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical and Structural Investigation of Calcium Substituted Monoclinic Li3V2(PO4)3 Anode Materials for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Fu Qiang , Liu Shuoqi , Sarapulova Angelina , Zhu Lihua , Etter Martin , Welter Edmund , Weidler Peter G. , Knapp Michael , Ehrenberg Helmut , Dsoke Sonia
Published: August 2019

In this work, the effect of Li+ substitution in Li3V2(PO4)3 with a large divalent ion (Ca2+) toward lithium insertion is studied. A series of materials, with formula Li3−2xCaxV2(PO4)3/C (x = 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5) is synthesized and studied in the potential region 3–0.01 V versus Li+/Li. Synchrotron diffraction demonstrates that Li3V2(PO4)3/C has a monoclinic structure (space group P21/n), while Ca1.5V2(PO4)3/C possesses a rhombohedral structure (space group R‐3c). The intermediate compounds, Li2Ca0.5V2(PO4)3/C and LiCaV2(PO4)3/C, are composed of two main phases, including monoclinic Li3V2(PO4)3/C and rhombohedral Ca1.5V2(PO4)3/C. Cyclic voltammetry reveals five reduction and oxidation peaks on Li3V2(PO4)3/C and Li2Ca0.5V2(PO4)3/C electrodes. In contrast, LiCaV2(PO4)3/C and Ca1.5V2(PO4)3/C have no obvious oxidation and reduction peaks but a box‐type voltammogram. This feature is the signature for capacitive‐like mechanism, which involves fast electron transfer on the surface of the electrode. Li3V2(PO4)3/C undergoes two solid‐solution and a short two‐phase reaction during lithiation and delithiation processes, whereas Ca1.5V2(PO4)3/C only goes through capacitive‐like mechanism. In operando X‐ray absorption spectroscopy confirms that, in both Li3V2(PO4)3/C and Ca1.5V2(PO4)3/C, V ions are reduced during the insertion of the first three Li ions. This study demonstrates that the electrochemical characteristic of polyanionic phosphates can be easily tuned by replacing Li+ with larger divalent cations.
The diagnostic workup in a patient with AMC: Overview of the clinical evaluation and paraclinical analyses with review of the literature
Authors: Dieterich Klaus , Le Tanno Pauline , Kimber Eva , Jouk Pierre‐Simon , Hall Judith , Giampietro Philip
Published: August 2019

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, or AMC, is a clinical sign defined as congenital contractures of at least two joint levels. These joint contractures are always secondary to diminished fetal movement which can have numerous causes that affect any part of the anatomical structures implicated in movement: the central nervous system, the anterior horn cell, the nerve, the neuromuscular junction, the muscle, or the joint itself. Make a precise diagnosis of the cause in a patient with multiple joint contractures is therefore challenging. The aim of this article is to summarize the use and diagnostic value of common examinations and analyses performed postnatally in patients affected by AMC from a literature review. We also compare this data with results from our clinical practice. Even though it is difficult to give precise guidelines today, it appears that genetic studies, such as whole exome or genome analysis in all patients and chromosomal microarray analysis in patients with intellectual disability and AMC should be preferred as first tier investigations over EMG and muscle biopsy.
Fish diversity assessment in the headwaters of the Volga River using environmental DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Lecaudey Laurène A. , Schletterer Martin , Kuzovlev Vyacheslav V. , Hahn Christoph , Weiss Steven J.
Published: August 2019

The headwaters of the Volga River exhibit large reaches with near‐pristine conditions, and therefore long‐term biodiversity monitoring of this catchment can provide rare and valuable information on a European lowland river. More specifically, freshwater fish species assemblages are a good indicator of ecosystem status, as they are particularly sensitive to environmental changes and hydromorphological alterations. Historical records show that the fish fauna of the Upper Volga has changed over time, both in species composition and in abundance. The construction of the Volga–Kama cascade (a series of large dams) has specifically affected the migration of diadromous species.

Environmental DNA metabarcoding offers a non‐invasive approach to determine the number of species in an aquatic ecosystem, as well as their identity and distribution. This approach is especially useful for fish fauna surveys along large rivers and long‐term biomonitoring, with the advantage of having no impact on the species and their habitats.

To infer the current fish species diversity and the spatial distribution of each species in the free‐flowing section of the Upper Volga River, as well as in selected tributaries, an environmental DNA metabarcoding approach was applied, using three mitochondrial DNA markers. This method allowed the positive identification of 23 fish species and their respective distributions in the headwaters of the Volga.

This assessment provides a valuable example of the application of environmental DNA metabarcoding in a large river system, and constitutes a starting point for future investigations and long‐term biomonitoring in the Upper Volga system. In addition, the results can also serve as a reference for fish diversity assessments of other large European lowland rivers, and can guide future conservation and management measures in the headwaters of the Volga.
Water Treatment Plant Ancillary Facilities: Unsung Heroes of Hurricane Harvey
Authors: Wang Yong , Pham Hanh
Published: August 2019

Key Takeaways

Ancillary facilities on the site of water treatment facilities should not be overlooked, especially during emergency events.

Prepared plant managers and engineers in the Houston area identified and corrected vulnerabilities in both primary and ancillary infrastructure well ahead of a “perfect storm.”

The East Water Purification Plant's improved stormwater system played a critical role in the region's resilience and recovery, and the utility's stormwater pumps successfully prevented the plant from flooding during the event.
Dose‐dependent exposure profile and metabolic characterization of notoginsenoside R1 in rat plasma by ultra‐fast liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Sainan , Ju Zhengcai , Guan Huida , Yu Lu , Wang Zhengtao , Zhao Yuqing
Published: August 2019

Notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1), a diagnostic protopanaxatriol‐type (ppt‐type) saponin in Panax notoginseng, possesses potent biological activities including antithrombotic, anti‐inflammatory, neuron protection and improvement of microcirculation, yet its pharmacokinetics and metabolic characterization as an individual compound remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the exposure profile of NGR1 in rats after oral and intravenous administration and to explore the metabolic characterization of NGR1. A simple and sensitive ultra‐fast liquid chromatographic–tandem mass spectrometric method was developed and validated for the quantitative determination of NGR1 and its major metabolites, and for characterization of its metabolic profile in rat plasma. The blood samples were precipitated with methanol, quantified in a negative multiple reaction monitoring mode and analyzed within 6.0 min. Validation parameters (linearity, precision and accuracy, recovery and matrix effect, stability) were within acceptable ranges. After oral administration, NGR1 exhibited dose‐independent exposure behaviors with t1/2 over 8.0 h and oral bioavailability of 0.25–0.29%. A total of seven metabolites were characterized, including two pairs of epimers, 20(R)‐notoginsenoside R2/20(S)‐notoginsenoside R2 and 20(R)‐ginsenoside Rh1/20(S)‐ginsenoside Rh1, with the 20(R) form of saponins identified for the first time in rat plasma. Five deglycometabolites were quantitatively determined, among which 20(S)‐notoginsenoside R2, ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside F1 and protopanaxatriol displayed relatively high exploration, which may partly explain the pharmacodynamic diversity of ginsenosides after oral dose.
A novel homozygous KCNQ3 loss‐of‐function variant causes non‐syndromic intellectual disability and neonatal‐onset pharmacodependent epilepsy
Authors: Lauritano Anna , Moutton Sebastien , Longobardi Elena , Tran Mau‐Them Frédéric , Laudati Giusy , Nappi Piera , Soldovieri Maria Virginia , Ambrosino Paolo , Cataldi Mauro , Jouan Thibaud , Lehalle Daphné , Maurey Hélène , Philippe Christophe , Miceli Francesco , Vitobello Antonio , Taglialatela Maurizio
Published: August 2019

Objective

Heterozygous variants in KCNQ2 or, more rarely, KCNQ3 genes are responsible for early‐onset developmental/epileptic disorders characterized by heterogeneous clinical presentation and course, genetic transmission, and prognosis. While familial forms mostly include benign epilepsies with seizures starting in the neonatal or early‐infantile period, de novo variants in KCNQ2 or KCNQ3 have been described in sporadic cases of early‐onset encephalopathy (EOEE) with pharmacoresistant seizures, various age‐related pathological EEG patterns, and moderate/severe developmental impairment. All pathogenic variants in KCNQ2 or KCNQ3 occur in heterozygosity. The aim of this work was to report the clinical, molecular, and functional properties of a new KCNQ3 variant found in homozygous configuration in a 9‐year‐old girl with pharmacodependent neonatal‐onset epilepsy and non‐syndromic intellectual disability.

Methods

Exome sequencing was used for genetic investigation. KCNQ3 transcript and subunit expression in fibroblasts was analyzed with quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blotting or immunofluorescence, respectively. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp electrophysiology was used for functional characterization of mutant subunits.

Results

A novel single‐base duplication in exon 12 of KCNQ3 (NM_004519.3:c.1599dup) was found in homozygous configuration in the proband born to consanguineous healthy parents; this frameshift variant introduced a premature termination codon (PTC), thus deleting a large part of the C‐terminal region. Mutant KCNQ3 transcript and protein abundance was markedly reduced in primary fibroblasts from the proband, consistent with nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay. The variant fully abolished the ability of KCNQ3 subunits to assemble into functional homomeric or heteromeric channels with KCNQ2 subunits.

Significance

The present results indicate that a homozygous KCNQ3 loss‐of‐function variant is responsible for a severe phenotype characterized by neonatal‐onset pharmacodependent seizures, with developmental delay and intellectual disability. They also reveal difference in genetic and pathogenetic mechanisms between KCNQ2‐ and KCNQ3‐related epilepsies, a crucial observation for patients affected with EOEE and/or developmental disabilities.
Hyporheic Interactions Increase Zinc Exposure and Effects on Hyalella azteca in Sediments under Flow-Through Conditions
Authors: Harrison Anna M. , Hudson Michelle L. , Burton G. Allen
Published: August 2019

Groundwater–surface water interactions in the hyporheic transition zone can influence contaminant exposure to benthic macroinvertebrates. In streams, hyporheic flows are subject to varying redox conditions, which influence biogeochemical cycling and metal speciation. Despite these relationships, little is known about how these interactions influence the ecological risk of contaminants. The present study investigated the effects of hyporheic flows and zinc (Zn)-contaminated sediments on the amphipod Hyalella azteca. Hyporheic flows were manipulated in laboratory streams during 10-d experiments. Zinc toxicity was evaluated in freshly spiked and aged sediments. Hyporheic flows altered sediment and porewater geochemistry, oxidizing the sediments and causing changes to redox-sensitive endpoints. Amphipod survival was lowest in the Zn sediment exposures with hyporheic flows. In freshly spiked sediments, porewater Zn drove mortality, whereas in aged sediments simultaneously extracted metals (SEM) in excess of acid volatile sulfides (AVS) normalized by the fraction of organic carbon (fOC) [(SEM-AVS)/fOC] influenced amphipod responses. The results highlight the important role of hyporheic flows in determining Zn bioavailability to benthic organisms, information that can be important in ecological risk assessments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2447–2458. © 2019 SETAC
Rain attenuation and worst month statistics verification and modeling for 5G radio link system at 26 GHz in Malaysia
Authors: Shayea Ibraheem , Nissirat Liyth A. , Nisirat Mahdi A. , Alsamawi Aida , Abd. Rahman Tharek , Hadri Azmi Marwan , Abo‐Zeed Mohammad , Trrad Issam
Published: August 2019

The explosive daily dependence on wireless communication services necessitates the research to establish ultrawideband communication systems with ultrahigh bit rate transmission capabilities. The advent of the fifth‐generation (5G) microwave link transmitting at millimeter‐wave (mm‐wave) frequency band is a promising technology to accommodate the escalating demand for wireless services. In this frequency band, however, the behavior of the transmission channel and its climatic properties are a major concern. This is of particular importance in tropical regions where the climate is mainly rainy with large raindrop size and high rainfall rate that may interact destructively with the propagating signal and cause total attenuation for the signal. International Telecommunication Union (ITU) introduced a global rain attenuation model to characterize the effect of rain on the propagating signal at a wideband of frequencies. The validity of this model in tropical regions is still an open question for research. In this paper, real measurements are conducted at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Johor Bahru, Malaysia, to investigate the impact of rain on the propagation of mm‐waves at 26 GHz over the microwave 5G radio link system. Rainfall rate and rain attenuation data sets are collected for one year at one sample per min sampling rate. Both data sets are used to estimate signal propagation conditions in comparison to the ITU model prediction. From the presented results, it is found that at 0.01% percentage of time and rainfall rate of about 120 mm/hr, the propagated signal would experience 26.2 dB losses per kilometer traveled. In addition, there is a significant deviation between the empirical estimation of the worst month parameters and the ITU worst month parameter prediction. Similarly, rainfall rate and rain attenuation estimated through the ITU model imposes a large deviation as compared with the measurements. Furthermore, more accurate empirical worst month parameters are proposed that yielded more accurate estimation of the worst month rainfall and rain attenuation predictions in comparison to the ITU model predictions.
n‐Grams exclusion and inclusion filter for intrusion detection in Internet of Energy big data systems
Authors: Aldwairi Monther , Alansari Duaa
Published: August 2019

The advent of Internet of Energy (IoE) and the seamless integration of grid operators, power generators, distributors, sensors, and end users promise more efficient use of energy. However, the IoE will inherit the vulnerabilities from all of the integrated systems, and this raises concerns for trust and privacy. The evolving complexity and increased speed of network‐based attacks emphasizes the need for an efficient intrusion detection system. Consequently, with the emergence of new attacks and the increasing number of signatures, traditional signature‐based intrusion detection systems cannot both sift through big data and meet high network speeds. Detection performance severely deteriorates when matching hundreds of gigabits per second to the growing number of attack signatures. Given that pattern matching takes up to 60% of the overall intrusion detection time, this paper presents a new and fast software‐based pattern matching system, Exscind. It proposes an exclusion‐inclusion filter to preclude clean traffic before having to do expensive pattern matching. Additionally, if the traffic is malicious, the system only matches against a subset of signatures that have a high probability of being a match. We extensively evaluate the system's performance and conclude that using 6‐grams signature prefix provides the best speedup and memory consumption with negligible false positives and linear scaling. We report a best‐case speedup of 6.5 times for normal traffic and 1.53 times for the worst possible scenario. For best‐case normal traffic, Exscind skips pattern matching for 98.36% of the packets.
On the machine learning–based smart beamforming for wireless virtualization with large‐scale MIMO system
Authors: Sapavath Naveen Naik , Safavat Sunitha , Rawat Danda B.
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we study a machine learning enabled smart beam scheduling approach for wireless virtualization in large‐scale multiple‐input–multiple‐output (MIMO) system. Large‐scale MIMO is regarded as an emerging technology to enhance data rate of future wireless networks and the wireless virtualization is regarded as an efficient paradigm to enhance the radio frequency (RF) spectrum utilization by subleasing RF slices of wireless infrastructure providers to mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs). We leverage machine learning approach for scheduling the beams in large‐scale MIMO where RF slices with the help of subsets of antennas are subleased for MVNOs. Performance of the proposed approach is evaluated using simulation results. The results show that the proposed approach outperforms the state of the art approach.
Assessing the clogging potential of clay/additivemixtures by cone pull‐out tests
Authors: Spagnoli Giovanni , Feinendegen Martin , Ziegler Martin
Published: August 2019

Clogging can be a massive problem during the mechanized excavation of tunnels. Soil conditioning with foams and/or polymers is normally used in these cases to decrease the adverse effect of clogging. In a research project the cone pull‐out test was used to assess the variation of adherence for four sticky clays with four commercial additives. Results show that the additives have also an impact on the basic mechanical properties of the clays such as liquid limit, plasticity index and shrinkage limit. The tests were performed on the one hand by spraying the additives on the metal surface of the cone and on the other hand by directly mixing them to the clays to reach the critical consistency index (i.e. where the maximum adherence with water was observed). Sprayed cone tests show for two clays a decrease in adherence. However, by directly mixing the additives to the clay, adherence considerably decreases, except for one kaolinitic clay. The results can be useful to select suitable additives or to develop new ones considering the geotechnical and mineralogical properties of the excavated clays.
Mikrostruktur des Salzburger Seetons – Charakterisierung basierend auf Drucksondierungen
Authors: Oberhollenzer Simon , Marte Roman , Gasser Daniel , Premstaller Michael , Leitich Alexander
Published: August 2019

Piezocone penetration tests (CPTu tests) allow continuous measurements of the tip resistance, the sleeve friction and the pore water pressure over depth. Furthermore, they minimize the required time as well as costs for a soil characterization. Due to the difficulty related to undisturbed sample recovery of soils (i.e. of weak silty fine‐grained sediments) for laboratory testing, in situ investigations are becoming increasingly popular in geotechnical engineering. The article illustrates results of cone penetration tests, executed at three test sites in the city of Salzburg. It is shown that CPT‐based soil behaviour type charts according to Robertson lead to a realistic characterization of the underground conditions. The grain size distribution of the Salzburger Seeton varies between fine sand‐silt mixtures, which are found in the upper parts, to clayey silts in greater depths. According to CPT‐based soil behaviour type charts of Robertson clayey silts behave clay‐like contractive and are characterized by homogeneous properties with increasing depth. Qtn‐IG diagrams underline that the Salzburger Seeton with a high clay content presents a weak microstructure. On the other hand, the upper Seeton layers, which can be classified as silt‐sand mixtures and silty sands respectively, show a stronger bounding between the particles.
Can a results‐based bottom‐up reform improve health system performance? Evidence from the rural health project in China
Authors: Zhang Hao , van Doorslaer Eddy , Xu Ling , Zhang Yaoguang , van de Klundert Joris
Published: August 2019

In 2008, the Rural Health Project (Health XI) was initiated in 40 Chinese counties to pilot interventions aimed at improving local health systems. Performance targets were pre‐specified (results‐based), and project counties were allowed to tailor their interventions (bottom‐up) in recognition of the substantial regional variations. Using household data from the China National Health Services Survey in a difference‐in‐differences strategy combined with matching, we find that project counties have improved outcomes (both incentivized and not‐directly‐incentivized) in all three domains examined—medical care, public health services, and self‐rated health—by 2013. In particular, the decrease in outpatient intravenous drip use and financial strain and the increase in all four components of public health services provision are robust to a variety of tests and alternative matching strategies. Results for not‐directly‐incentivized indicators suggest that results‐based payment did not lead to multitasking problems but rather to positive spillovers. On the other hand, little improvement in inpatient‐related indicators suggests that the Health XI interventions did not successfully redress the perverse incentives driving the bulk of providers' income. In general, however, our results indicate that interventions adopted in the results‐based bottom‐up approach generated substantial benefits given the investment.
Robotic caudate lobe liver resection following robotic left hepatectomy for cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Sucandy Iswanto , Giovannetti Andres , Spence Janelle , Ross Sharona , Rosemurgy Alexander
Published: August 2019

Sucandy and colleagues described their experience with robotic caudate lobe liver resection as a repeat operation after robotic left hepatectomy for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. The robotic platform, which provides superior 3D visualization and increased dexterity, greatly facilitates isolation and division of the short hepatic veins of the inferior vena cava.
Connecting the dots in type 1 diabetes: The role for gut–pancreas axis
Authors: Menezes-Silva Luisa , Fonseca Denise Morais da
Published: August 2019

Discussion on changes in gut microbiota driving the breakdown of mucosal barrier in NOD mice; the resulting inflammation and impairment of oral tolerance induces the autoimmune diabetes.
Assessing the impact of a matching‐adjusted indirect comparison in a Bayesian network meta‐analysis
Authors: Leahy Joy , Walsh Cathal
Published: August 2019

If IPD is available for some or all trials in a network meta‐analysis (NMA), then incorporating this IPD into an NMA is routinely considered to be preferable. However, the situation often arises where a researcher has IPD for trials concerning a particular treatment (eg, from a sponsor) but none for other trials. Therefore, one can reweight the IPD so that the covariate characteristics in the IPD trials match that of the aggregate data (AgD) trials, using a matching‐adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC). We assess the impact of using the reweighted aggregated data, obtained by the MAIC, in a Bayesian NMA for a connected treatment network. We apply this method to a network of multiple myeloma treatments in newly diagnosed patients (ndMM), where the outcome is progression free survival. We investigate the reliability of the methods and results through a simulation study. The ndMM network consists of three IPD studies comparing lenalidomide to placebo (Len‐Placebo), one AgD study comparing Len‐Placebo, and one AgD study comparing thalidomide to placebo (Thal‐Placebo). We therefore investigate two options of weighting the covariates: (a) All three studies are weighted separately to match the AgD Thal‐Placebo trial. (b) Patients are weighted across all three IPD studies to match the AgD Thal‐Placebo trial, but the NMA considers each trial separately. We observe limited benefit to MAIC in the full network population. While MAIC can be beneficial as a sensitivity analysis to confirm results across patient populations, we advise that MAIC is used and interpreted with caution.
Functional and thermal properties of yellow pea and red lentil extrudates produced by nitrogen gas injection assisted extrusion cooking
Authors: Masatcioglu Mustafa Tugrul , Koksel Filiz
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

There are excellent opportunities for greater incorporation into our diets of pulses, which are rich in proteins and dietary fibers, if their functional properties are modified to fit a wide range of applications in the food industry. The objective of this research was to produce high protein and fiber extrudates from yellow pea and red lentil flours using conventional and N2 gas injection assisted extrusion cooking methods. The effects of process variables on extrudate functional and thermal properties were also investigated.

RESULTS

The cold viscosity of extrudates produced by N2 gas injection were higher than those produced by conventional extrusion, indicating that gas‐assisted extrusion does affect the end‐product pasting properties. At higher barrel temperatures (150–175 °C) extrudates did not exhibit any thermal transition in their thermograms, and thus their starches were completely gelatinized and proteins completely denatured during extrusion. In general, water solubility of extrudates produced by N2 gas injection was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those produced by conventional extrusion. Emulsion capacity and stability of yellow pea extrudates were in the range of 44–50% and 42–47%, respectively, and the counterpart values of red lentil extrudates were very similar (in the range of 43–47% and 43–46%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Nitrogen gas injection assisted extrusion cooking can be used practically in development of pulse extrudates which contain high protein and dietary fiber. This novel and innovative technique is a reliable alternative method to the conventional CO2 gas injection assisted extrusion cooking methods in the snack food and food ingredient industries. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Electrochromic devices using Fe(II)‐based metallo‐supramolecular polymer: Introduction of ionic liquid as electrolyte to enhance the thermal stability
Authors: Mondal Sanjoy , Yoshida Takefumi , Higuchi Masayoshi
Published: August 2019

We fabricated electrochromic (EC) devices with Fe(II)‐based metallo‐supramolecular polymer (polyFe), 1‐butyl‐1‐methyl‐pyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (BMPyr(NTf)2) ionic liquid (IL), and Prussian blue (PB) as electrochromic layer, electrolyte layer, and counter layer, respectively. Thermal stability and ionic conductivity of BMPyr(NTf)2 IL was measured by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and impedance analysis to be 380°C and approximately 7.8 × 10−4 S/cm, respectively. The fabricated device showed reversible electrochromism between bluish‐violet and colorless by applying +3.0/−1.5 V alternately. The 65% of the original EC contrast remained in the device after the repeated changes for 100 cycles at 100°C.
A novel magnetic resonance imaging postprocessing technique for the assessment of intervertebral disc degeneration—Correlation with histological grading in a rabbit disc degeneration model
Authors: Sheldrick Kyle , Chamoli Uphar , Masuda Koichi , Miyazaki Shingo , Kato Kenji , Diwan Ashish D.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Estimation of intervertebral disc degeneration on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is challenging. Qualitative schemes used in clinical practice correlate poorly with pain and quantitative techniques have not entered widespread clinical use.

Methods

As part of a prior study, 25 New Zealand white rabbits underwent annular puncture to induce disc degeneration in 50 noncontiguous lumbar discs. At 16 weeks, the animals underwent multi‐echo T2 MRI scanning and were euthanized. The discs were stained and examined histologically. Quantitative T2 relaxation maps were prepared using the nonlinear least squares method. Decay Variance maps were created using a novel technique of aggregating the deviation in the intensity of each echo signal from the expected intensity based on the previous rate of decay.

Results

Decay Variance maps showed a clear and well demarcated nucleus pulposus with a consistent rate of decay (low Decay Variance) in healthy discs that showed progressively more variable decay (higher Decay Variance) with increasing degeneration. Decay Variance maps required significantly less time to generate (1.0 ± 0.0 second) compared with traditional T2 relaxometry maps (5 (±0.9) to 1788.9 (±116) seconds). Histology scores correlated strongly with Decay Variance scores (r = 0.82, P < .01) and weakly with T2 signal intensity (r = 0.32, P < .01) and quantitative T2 relaxometry (r = 0.39, P < .01). Decay Variance had superior sensitivity and specificity for the detection of degenerate discs when compared to T2 signal intensity or Quantitative T2 mapping.

Conclusion

Our results show that using a multi‐echo T2 MRI sequence, Decay Variance can quantitatively assess disc degeneration more accurately and with less image‐processing time than quantitative T2 relaxometry in a rabbit disc puncture model. The technique is a viable candidate for quantitative assessment of disc degeneration on MRI scans. Further validation on human subjects is needed.
Nitrous oxide anesthetic versus total intravenous anesthesia for functional endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Heller Benjamin J. , DeMaria Samuel , Mendoza Erick , Hyman Jaime , Iloreta Alfred M.C. , Lin Hung‐Mo , Govindaraj Satish , Levine Adam I.
Published: August 2019

Background

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is a common procedure for sinonasal disease, frequently performed in the outpatient setting. General anesthesia maintained with total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) with propofol has been shown to give superior surgical conditions compared to inhaled anesthetics. This study evaluated the effects of TIVA versus a predominantly nitrous oxide (N2O)–based anesthetic with a low‐dose propofol and remifentanil infusion on sinus surgery.

Methods

Patients were randomized to either a N2O‐based (nitrous oxide with propofol and remifentanil) or TIVA (propofol and remifentanil without nitrous oxide) group. The surgeon was blinded to the anesthetic technique. Surgical field grading was performed in real time by the otolaryngologist every 15 minutes with the Boezaart grading system.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between the Boezaart scores, duration of surgery, or estimated blood loss between the two anesthetic techniques. However, the use of N2O provided a statistically significant, 38% reduction in time from surgery end to extubation. The TIVA group had significantly decreased mean and median pain scores in the post‐anesthesia care unit (PACU). There was no difference in the rate of postoperative nausea and vomiting between the two groups.

Conclusion

A N2O‐based anesthetic for functional endoscopic sinus surgery provides similar intraoperative and postoperative conditions when compared to TIVA, while being superior in terms of time to extubation. Although the TIVA group had significantly decreased pain scores, this did not lead to a decrease in pain medicine received in the PACU, and there was no difference between groups in time to discharge.

Level of Evidence

1b

Laryngoscope, 130:E299–E304, 2020
A 10‐year study of the etiopathogenesis of cysts with a study of seromucinous glands in vocal folds
Authors: Nerurkar Nupur Kapoor , Chitnis Trishna , Gupta Vani Krishana , Muzumdar Girish , Patel Keyuri , Bhuiyan Pritha
Published: August 2019

Objective

An increasing number of vocal fold cysts excised, as compared to polyps, over the last decade led us to review these cases. We found a statistically significant increase in cysts excised as compared to polyps, over the latter 5‐year period (2013–2017). This prompted us to analyze possible factors responsible for this increase. We also performed a histological study of the normative distribution pattern of seromucinous glands in the apparently normal vocal folds.

Methods

A retrospective review of all cysts and polyps excised over a 10‐year period was performed. Patient demographics, air‐pollution levels, videostroboscopic findings and histologic analysis of pathology were reviewed. Findings were compared between the initial and latter 5‐year period of all cysts excised. The second part of the study entailed a histological study of the presence and distribution pattern of seromucinous glands in 40 apparently normal fresh frozen cadaver vocal folds.

Results

There was a statistically significant (P = .035) increase of mucous retention cysts excised as compared to polyps over the latter 5‐year period. Decreased laryngeal hydration was a significant associated finding in cysts excised over the decade as compared to polyps. Striking zone lesions, suggestive of vocal abuse, were seen in a majority of patients of both polyps and cysts excised over the decade. Air pollution had significantly increased in India over the latter 5‐year period. Vocal fold histology in cadavers revealed a presence of seromucinous glands in 32.50% (13/40) with 25.00% (10/40) present in the Superficial Lamina Propria (SLP).

Conclusion

Decreased laryngeal hydration, vocal abuse and mucous glands present in the SLP may be predisposing factors towards mucous retention cyst formation. An increase in number of these cysts excised over the latter 5‐year period was seen as was increased air pollution.

Level of Evidence

3b for the first part of study and NA for the second part of the study

Laryngoscope, 130:986–991, 2020
Managerial overconfidence, overinvestment, and R&D spillover
Authors: Li Chaofan , Zhou Pin , Li Yi
Published: August 2019

This paper examines whether a firm will select an overoptimistic manager when a cost‐reduction investment has a spillover effect. We consider a Cournot competition model where R&D investment ex ante occurs before the process of product market competition. Our analysis reveals that there exists a unique and symmetric equilibrium for firms to delegate overoptimistic managers. We show that only when the spillover effect is sufficiently high do firms benefit from delegation. Furthermore, the equilibrium confidence level and investment decision first decrease and then increase as the spillover parameter changes. As the initial production cost increases, the equilibrium performance becomes worse.
The economics of nonprofit organisations' governance
Authors: Jegers Marc
Published: August 2019

We determine theoretically when we can expect agency problems amenable to shirking agents to arise in nonprofit organisations and derive the conditions for governance measures to remedy these. Agents' private benefits of shirking need to be considered combined with the effect of their efforts on the probabilities of being successful in fundraising and production. If this effect is large, agency problems can more easily be avoided. Sufficient conditions for governance measures to reduce agency problems are derived. The empirical literature fits a number of the results derived and shows important gaps, especially w.r.t. the role of success probabilities.
A partially penalized P1/CR immersed finite element method for planar elasticity interface problems
Authors: Liu Angran , Chen Jinru
Published: August 2019

We propose a partially penalized P1/CR immersed finite element (IFE) method with midpoint values on edges as degrees of freedom for CR elements to solve planar elasticity interface problems. Optimal approximation errors in L2 norm and H1 semi‐norm are obtained for the P1/CR IFE spaces. Moreover, by adding some stabilization terms on the edges of interface elements, we derive an optimal error estimate for the P1/CR IFE method. Our method differs from the method with average values on edges as degrees of freedom for P1/CR elements in Qin et al.'s study, where no approximation theoretical result was presented. Numerical examples confirm our theoretical results.
Overall survival for neuroblastoma in South Africa between 2000 and 2014
Authors: Van Heerden Jaques , Hendricks Marc , Geel Jennifer , Sartorius Benn , Hadley G. P. , Du Plessis Jan , Büchner Ané , Naidu Gita , Van Emmenes Barry , Van Zyl Anel , Kruger Mariana
Published: August 2019

Background

Outcome data for neuroblastoma in sub‐Saharan Africa are minimal, whereas poor outcome is reported in low‐ and middle‐income countries. A multi‐institutional retrospective study across South Africa was undertaken to determine outcome.

Methods

Patients treated between January 2000 and December 2014 in nine South African pediatric oncology units were included. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression models were employed to determine two‐year survival rates and to identify prognostic factors.

Results

Data from 390 patients were analyzed. The median age was 39.9 months (range, 0–201 months). The majority presented with stage 4 disease (70%). The main chemotherapy regimens were OPEC/OJEC (44.8%), St Jude NB84 protocol (28.96%), and Rapid COJEC (22.17%). Only 44.4% had surgery across all risk groups, whereas only 16.5% of high‐risk patients received radiotherapy. The two‐year overall survival (OS) for the whole cohort was 37.6%: 94.1%, 81.6%, and 66.7%, respectively, for the very‐low‐risk, low‐risk, and intermediate‐risk groups and 27.6% for the high‐risk group (P < 0.001, 95% CI). The median survival time for the whole group was 13 months (mean, 41.9 months; range, 0.1–209 months). MYCN‐nonamplified patients had a superior two‐year OS of 51.3% in comparison with MYCN‐amplified patients at 37.3% (P = 0.002, 95% CI).

Conclusions

Limited disease had an OS comparable with high‐income countries, but advanced disease had a poor OS. South Africa should focus on early diagnosis and implementation of a national protocol with equitable access to treatment.
Accelerator for Ultrafast Laser Serial Production
Authors: Ryll Joachim , Holtkamp Jens , Eifel Stephan
Published: August 2019

The world of serial applications has long been denied the possibility of ablation processes with ultrafast pulsed laser radiation due to high investment costs and low ablation rates. Nowadays, process scaling with advanced beam shaping technologies make use of the available high laser powers and therefor opens up possibilities for serial processing of individual components. But the exclusive focus on the main time of laser processing is not enough for a production system. Only the combined operation of handling systems, measurement technology, and process automation allow the ultrafast laser technology to spread further into volume markets.
Energy Storage, Lasered!
Authors: Wegener Maximilian
Published: August 2019

Lithium‐ion batteries are a key technology for all automotive manufacturers in 2019. The broad market acceptance of battery‐powered mobility is dependent primarily on three factors: greater capacity with higher charging and discharging currents for a long range and short charging times, absolute safety, and declining production costs. As a technologically leading manufacturer of fully integrated production lines for lithium‐ion batteries, high‐tech equipment manufacturer Manz is thus focused on the advantages of laser process technology.
Integration of Sequential Reactions in a Continuous Flow Droplet Reactor: A Route to Architecturally Defined Bimetallic Nanostructures
Authors: Santana Joshua S. , Gamler Jocelyn T. L. , Skrabalak Sara E.
Published: August 2019

Microreactors for nanoparticle (NP) synthesis offer advantages over batch reactions in terms of scale‐up and integration with online analyses. Herein, two microreactors (i.e., a duo‐microreactor) are integrated to achieve sequential reactions for the synthesis of bimetallic NPs with architectural control. The generality of the duo‐microreactor is shown with the synthesis of branched Pd‐Pt NPs and core@shell Pd@Au NPs, both achieved by synthesizing Pd nanocubes in the first part of the duo‐microreactor and then using those nanocubes downstream as seeds for Pt or Au deposition. Control of the dimensions of these NPs is further demonstrated and achieved by tailoring metal precursor concentrations inline. This microreactor methodology is anticipated to be applicable to other bimetallic NP systems.
Asymptomatic congenital tracheal stenosis
Authors: Sumi Toshiyuki , Ikeda Takumi , Nakata Hisashi
Published: August 2019

Key message

Congenital tracheal stenosis (CTS) is often identified by characteristic wheezes and cyanosis in childhood. However, an asymptomatic progression to adulthood is rare. Asymptomatic latent CTS cases with a mild degree of stenosis may exist.
Data quality and feasibility issues with industry‐related Sustainable Development Goal targets for Sub‐Saharan African countries
Authors: Luken Ralph , Mörec Urška , Meinert Tim
Published: August 2019

Manufacturing output, employment, and resource use were entirely missing from the Millennium Development Goals but now play a central role in the newly formulated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this paper, we analyze the quality of databases for assessing progress by Sub‐Saharan African countries towards meeting industry‐related SDG targets. We find data quality issues least severe for two out of the five conventional economic indicators but extremely severe for the other three economic indicators, moderately severe for the one employment indicator, and extremely severe for the six environmental indicators except for energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. We also assess the feasibility of meeting conventional economic, employment, and energy targets by the year 2030 and find that they are overly optimistic for most countries. We propose setting additional and more realistic targets based on past country performance.
The pre‐commercialization emergence of the combination of product features in the charge‐coupled device image sensor
Authors: Roy Raja , Lampert Curba M. , Sarkar MB
Published: August 2019

Research Summary

Despite recent investigations that expand our understanding of the evolution of a new industry and the role of its early actors, an exploration of the critical function of firm experimentation in the pre‐commercialization phase has been lacking in the literature. This study focuses on the pre‐commercialization phase of CCD image sensors and uncovers the emergence of the combination of product features—chosen through systematic experimentations—that define the post‐commercialization dominant design.

Managerial Summary

We examine how pre‐commercialization experimentation generates new knowledge that transfers from one early actor to another enabling them to sequentially mitigate the product performance trade‐offs associated with the combination of product features that define the eventual dominant design. Our findings describe how firm experimentation helps the emergence of product features in the pre‐commercialization phase of CCD image sensors, which shapes the post‐commercialization dominant design to emerge.
Paper‐Based Disposable Zinc‐Vanadium Fuel Cell for Micropower Applications
Authors: Pasala Vasudevarao , Ramanujam Kothandaraman
Published: August 2019

The emergence properties of paper as the ionic conductor has driven the new development in energy generators mainly micro‐nano scale energy. Instead of the flow channels in conventional fuel cells, the capillary action of the paper controls the flow of the electrolytes. Paper based biofuel cells and electrochemical fuel cells are recent trends in micro‐nano power generation to support the biosensors. In this study, zinc fuel and
oxidant were used to form a membraneless fuel cell. Instead of membrane, Whatmann® 2 filter paper was used as the separator cum autonomous microfluidic pumping system. When 6 M KOH and 1.5 M
in 2.5 M H2SO4 were supplied on the anode and cathode respectively, a peak power density of 9.4 mW cm−2 at 1.21 V and open circuit voltage of ∼ 2.5 V were realized. Due to the low cost and high power associated with this system, it can be used to power the Lab‐on‐Chip devices employed for single use point‐of‐care applications.
Modification of MIL‐125(Ti) by Incorporating Various Transition Metal Oxide Nanoparticles for Enhanced Photocurrent during Hydrogen and Oxygen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Fiaz Muhammad , Athar Muhammad
Published: August 2019

Highly efficient photocatalysts of the type MxOy@MIL‐125(Ti) (MxOy= MnO2, Fe2O3, Co3O4, NiO and CuO) have been prepared by in‐situ incorporation of pre synthesized metal oxide nanoparticles into MIL‐125(Ti) through hydrothermal method. The synthesized samples have been characterized by Powder X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive X‐ray Spectrometry, Elemental Mapping, UV‐Vis spectrophotometry andN2‐adsorption Isotherm. The photoelectrochemical properties for oxygen evolution reaction and hydrogen evolution reaction have been studied by Cyclic voltammetry and Linear sweep voltammetry analysis in 2 M aq. KOH electrolyte and stability for constant current generation of these samples is observed by Chronoamperometric measurements. These studies indicate that metal oxide nanoparticles have been successfully incorporated into MIL‐125(Ti), which enhance the efficient absorption of visible light and improve the oxygen evolution and hydrogen evolution reaction activity during water splitting. Furthermore, from linear sweep voltammetry results at 1mVs−1 scan rate it is observed that MxOy@MIL‐125(Ti) samples have lower onset potential and higher current density as compared to pure MIL‐125(Ti). CuO@MIL‐125(Ti)/NF exhibited highest current density, lowest onset potential and better oxygen evolution reaction and hydrogen evolution reaction activity as compared to all other synthesized samples.
Application of rule‐based expert systems in hardware‐in‐the‐loop simulation case study: Software and performance validation of an engine electronic control unit
Authors: Ortega‐Cabezas Pedro Miguel , Colmenar‐Santos Antonio , Borge‐Diez David , Blanes‐Peiró Jorge Juan
Published: August 2019

Innovative techniques to validate software are needed to reduce cost and increase software quality.

This research aims to check if two rule‐based expert systems (EXs) combined with dynamic‐link libraries (dlls) perform better than other techniques widely employed in the automotive sector when validating the engine electronic control unit (ECU) software by using a hardware‐in‐the‐loop (HIL) simulation.

To perform this research, 15 software modules (SMs) of different complexities were chosen to be validated in an HIL simulation by using different techniques such as the manual execution, the tester‐in‐the‐loop, the model‐based testing, a rule‐based EX, and the combination of two EXs to establish the code and functional coverage, the productivity gain, the number of bugs found, potential limitations of each technique, and the success rate of the HIL simulation. The test cases used are described in‐depth in Section 2.

The enhancement, which dlls and EXs offer, depends on the number of states in the functional model used in the EXs and the number of subintervals in which the SM inputs can be divided. A range between 6 and 16 more bugs can be detected when using two EXs. The HIL enhancement can reach 6%, 16.8%, and 18% depending on the SM complexity.
Dressing cosets and multi-parametric integrable deformations
Authors: Klimčík Ctirad
Published: August 2019

Abstract

We provide a new construction of the dressing cosets σ-models which is based on an isotropic gauging of the

$$ \mathcal{E} $$

E

-models. As an application of this new approach, we show that the recently constructed multi-parametric integrable deformations of the principal chiral model are the dressing cosets, they are therefore automatically renormalizable and their dynamics can be completely characterised in terms of current algebras.