bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning assisted optimization of electrochemical properties for Ni-rich cathode materials
Authors: Min Kyoungmin , Choi Byungjin , Park Kwangjin , Cho Eunseog
Published: October 2018

Optimizing synthesis parameters is the key to successfully design ideal Ni-rich cathode materials that satisfy principal electrochemical specifications. We herein implement machine learning algorithms using 330 experimental datasets, obtained from a controlled environment for reliability, to construct a predictive model. First, correlation values showed that the calcination temperature and the size of the particles are determining factors for achieving a long cycle life. Then, we compared the accuracy of seven different machine learning algorithms for predicting the initial capacity, capacity retention rate, and amount of residual Li. Remarkable predictive capability was obtained with the average value of coefficient of determinant, R2 = 0.833, from the extremely randomized tree with adaptive boosting algorithm. Furthermore, we propose a reverse engineering framework to search for experimental parameters that satisfy the target electrochemical specification. The proposed results were validated by experiments. The current results demonstrate that machine learning has great potential to accelerate the optimization process for the commercialization of cathode materials.
Development and single dose clinical pharmacokinetics investigation of novel zein assisted- alpha lipoic acid nanoencapsulation of vardenafil
Authors: Ahmed Osama A. A.
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to utilize the biocompatibility of the natural ingredients zein and alpha lipoic acid (ALA) as a novel nanosphere matrix formulation that encapsulates vardenafil (VRD) for improved drug delivery and bioavailability. Three formulations were prepared using zein: ALA ratio of 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 by liquid–liquid phase separation method. Physicochemical characterization andin vitrodiffusion evaluation were carried out for the prepared formulations. A single dose clinical pharmacokinetic study was carried out for the selected formulation. Results revealed VRD formulations showed particle size of 836.7 ± 191.3, 179.8 ± 18.4 and 147.3 ± 18.1 nm and encapsulation efficiency of 55.72 ± 4.36, 65.33 ± 7.82 and 69.38 ± 6.83% for F1, F2 and F3, respectively. Single dose clinical pharmacokinetic results, in healthy human volunteers, showed improved VRD bioavailability by 2.5 folds from nanosphere formula (F3) compared with the marketed tablets. The formulation of novel zein-ALA nanospheres offers the possibility for application of a biocompatible nano-carrier system in drug delivery for improved drug delivery and efficacy.
Relationships between circulating branched chain amino acid concentrations and risk of adverse cardiovascular events in patients with STEMI treated with PCI
Authors: Du Xiaoyu , You Hongzhao , Li Yulin , Wang Yuan , Hui Peng , Qiao Bokang , Lu Jie , Zhang Weihua , Zhou Shanshan , Zheng Yang , Du Jie
Published: October 2018

The incidence of in-hospital cardiovascular adverse events (AEs) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) following primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is relatively high. Identification of metabolic markers could improve our understanding of the underlying pathological changes in these patients. We aimed to identify associations between concentrations of plasma metabolites on admission and development of in-hospital AEs in post-PCI patients with STEMI. We used targeted mass spectrometry to measure plasma concentrations of 26 amino acid metabolites on admission in 96 patients with STEMI who subsequently developed post-PCI AEs and in 96 age- and sex-matched patients without post-PCI cardiovascular AEs. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that PCA-derived factors, including branched chain amino acids (BCAAs), were associated with increased risks of all three pre-specified outcomes: cardiovascular mortality/acute heart failure (AHF), cardiovascular mortality, and AHF. Addition of BCAA to the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events risk score increased the concordance C statistic from 0.702 to 0.814 (p < 0.001), and had a net reclassification index of 0.729 (95% confidence interval, 0.466–0.992, p < 0.001). These findings demonstrate that high circulating BCAA concentrations on admission are associated with subsequent in-hospital AEs after revascularization in patients with STEMI.
The in vivo effects of silver nanoparticles on terrestrial isopods, Porcellio scaber, depend on a dynamic interplay between shape, size and nanoparticle dissolution properties
Authors: Novak Sara , Romih Tea , Drašler Barbara , Birarda Giovanni , Vaccari Lisa , Ferraris Paolo , Sorieul Stephanie , Zieba Maciej , Sebastian Victor , Arruebo Manuel , Hočevar Samo B. , Jemec Kokalj Anita , Drobne Damjana
Published: October 2018

The effects of exposure to low concentrations of AgNPs in model tissue, are the result of the interplay between size, shape and dissolution of ions from NPs.
A review of methods for the detection of pathogenic microorganisms
Authors: Rajapaksha P. , Elbourne A. , Gangadoo S. , Brown R. , Cozzolino D. , Chapman J.
Published: October 2018

The testing and rapid detection of pathogenic organisms is a crucial protocol in the prevention and identification of crises related to health, safety and wellbeing.
Thiol–ene click reaction-induced fluorescence enhancement by altering the radiative rate for assaying butyrylcholinesterase activity
Authors: Chen Guilin , Feng Hui , Xi Wenbin , Xu Jing , Pan Saifei , Qian Zhaosheng
Published: October 2018

A fluorescent molecular probe for assaying BChE activity based on thiol-triggered fluorescence enhancement via a thiol–ene click reaction was developed.
Cu-catalyzed regioselective borylcyanation of 1,3-dienes
Authors: Wen Lu , Zhang Haiyan , Wang Jiping , Meng Fanke
Published: October 2018

Catalytic regioselective generation of an allyl–Cu complex through Cu–B(pin) (pin = pinacolato) addition to 1,3-dienes followed by reaction with an electrophilic cyanation reagent to afford multifunctional organoboron compounds is presented.
An efficient method for retro-Claisen-type C–C bond cleavage of diketones with tropylium catalyst
Authors: Hussein M. A. , Huynh V. T. , Hommelsheim R. , Koenigs R. M. , Nguyen T. V.
Published: October 2018

We report a new convenient and efficient method utilizing the tropylium ion as a mild and environmentally friendly organocatalyst to mediate retro-Claisen-type reactions.
Electrochemical ruthenium-catalyzed alkyne annulations by C–H/Het–H activation of aryl carbamates or phenols in protic media
Authors: Mei Ruhuai , Koeller Julian , Ackermann Lutz
Published: October 2018

Electrooxidative peri-C–H activation was accomplished by versatile ruthenium(ii) catalysis in terms of C–H/N–H and C–H/O–H functionalization. The sustainable electrocatalysis exploited electricity, thereby avoiding the use of toxic transition metals as sacrificial oxidants.
Theoretical rationalisation of the photophysics of a TICT excited state of cinnamoyl–coumarin derivatives in homogeneous and biological membrane models
Authors: Zúñiga-Núñez Daniel , Zamora Ricardo A. , Barrias Pablo , Tirapegui Cristian , Poblete Horacio , Cárdenas-Jirón Gloria , Alarcon Emilio I. , Aspée Alexis
Published: October 2018

Analysis of the potential energy barriers and structural dynamics of a new TICT-probe for monitoring biological environments.
Second-order nonlinear optical properties of Stenhouse photoswitches: insights from density functional theory
Authors: Tonnelé Claire , Champagne Benoît , Muccioli Luca , Castet Frédéric
Published: October 2018

Nonlinear optical properties of Stenhouse photoswitches are computed using time-dependent density functional theory, revealing large variations in the amplitude and symmetry of the second harmonic generation responses.
A critical review of cathodes for rechargeable Mg batteries
Authors: Mao Minglei , Gao Tao , Hou Singyuk , Wang Chunsheng
Published: October 2018

This paper provides a critical and rigorous review on Mg battery cathodes, focusing on the impact of structure and composition on magnesiation kinetics.
Thermally induced structural transformations of linear coordination polymers based on aluminum tris(diorganophosphates)
Authors: Dębowski Maciej , Łokaj Krzysztof , Ostrowski Andrzej , Zachara Janusz , Wiecińska Paulina , Falkowski Paweł , Krztoń-Maziopa Anna , Florjańczyk Zbigniew
Published: October 2018

Thermal properties of coordination polymers with formula Al[O2P(OR)2]3 [R = Me, Et, nPr, iPr, nBu, CH2CH(Et)(CH2)3CH3 or Ph] are reported.
A new “bicycle helmet”-like copper(ii),sodiumphenylsilsesquioxane. Synthesis, structure and catalytic activity
Authors: Kulakova Alena N. , Bilyachenko Alexey N. , Korlyukov Alexander A. , Shul'pina Lidia S. , Bantreil Xavier , Lamaty Frédéric , Shubina Elena S. , Levitsky Mikhail M. , Ikonnikov Nikolay S. , Shul'pin Georgiy B.
Published: October 2018

Use of silsesquioxane and 2,2′-bipyridine leads to isolation of catalytically active “Bicycle Helmet” cage.
Sub-phthalocyanine-incorporated Fe(ii) metallo-supramolecular polymer exhibiting blue-to-transmissive electrochromic transition with high transmittance and coloration efficiency
Authors: Beneto Arockiam Jesin , Jeong Jae Yoon , Park Jong S.
Published: October 2018

The preparation of a new Fe(ii) metallo-supramolecular polymer (poly-subPc-Fe) constructed from a terpyridine-functionalized sub-phthalocyanine with axially substituted polyisobutylene is presented.
Food matrix and processing modulatein vitroprotein digestibility in soybeans
Authors: Zahir Mostafa , Fogliano Vincenzo , Capuano Edoardo
Published: October 2018

The digestibility of soybean proteins is increased by particle size reduction and thermal treatment and depends on the fraction of intact cells.
Solvent-free mechanochemical oxidation and reduction of biomass-derived 5-hydroxymethyl furfural
Authors: Chacón-Huete F. , Messina C. , Chen F. , Cuccia L. , Ottenwaelder X. , Forgione P.
Published: October 2018

The simultaneous synthesis of 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furoic acid and 2,5-hydroxymethylfuran from biomass-derived 5-hydroxymethyl furan was developed using a solvent-free mechanochemical approach.
Electrochemically activated Cu2O/Co3O4 nanocomposites on defective carbon nanotubes for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Jin Wei , Chen Jianping
Published: October 2018

Integrating an earth-abundant transition metal with modified carbon nanomaterials as electrocatalysts for emerging energy applications.
Cobalt and nickel bimetallic sulfide nanoparticles immobilized on montmorillonite demonstrating peroxidase-like activity for H2O2 detection
Authors: Wu Kaili , Yang Baochan , Zhu Xixi , Chen Wei , Luo Xiliang , Liu Zhenxue , Zhang Xiao , Liu Qingyun
Published: October 2018

In this study, ternary transition metal sulfide (cobalt and nickel sulfides) nanoparticles were anchored on the surface of montmorillonite (MMT) by a facile one-pot hydrothermal method.
Percolation limited emission intensity from upconverting NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+ nanocrystals – a single nanocrystal optical study
Authors: Podhorodecki A. , Krajnik B. , Golacki L. W. , Kostiv U. , Pawlik G. , Kaczmarek M. , Horák D.
Published: October 2018

Based on single nanocrystals optical studies and numerical simulations, the optimal Yb3+ and Er3+ concentration in NaYF4 upconverting nanocrystals has been explained as due to percolation threshold and lost of excitation energy at NCs surface.
Influence of citrate on phase transformation and photoluminescence properties in LaPO4 and LaPO4:Eu
Authors: Wu An-Ping , Bai He , Bao Jin-Rong , Yang Kui-Suo , Feng Li-Na , Ma Yang-Yang , Qiao Yan , Li Wen-Xian , Liu Ying , Zhu Xiao-Wei
Published: October 2018

The hexagonal and monoclinic phase LaPO4:Eu nanostructures have been controllably synthesized using a citrate-induced hydrothermal process at 100 °C.
Temperature independence of piezoelectric properties for high-performance BiFeO3–BaTiO3 lead-free piezoelectric ceramics up to 300 °C
Authors: Zhu Li-Feng , Liu Qing , Zhang Bo-Ping , Cen Zhen-Yong , Wang Ke , Li Jun-jie , Bai Yang , Wang Xiao-Hui , Li Jing-Feng
Published: October 2018

The temperature-dependence behaviors of ferroelectric, piezoelectric, kp and electrical-field-induced strain were carefully evaluated for high-performance BiFeO3–0.3BaTiO3 (BF–0.3BT) ceramics.
Triggering the expression of a silent gene cluster from genetically intractable bacteria results in scleric acid discovery
Authors: Alberti Fabrizio , Leng Daniel J. , Wilkening Ina , Song Lijiang , Tosin Manuela , Corre Christophe
Published: October 2018

The characterisation of scleric acid, a new natural product from a silent and cryptic gene cluster from genetically intractable bacteria, and its biosynthesis are reported.
Mechanism of hydrogen peroxide formation by lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase
Authors: Caldararu Octav , Oksanen Esko , Ryde Ulf , Hedegård Erik D.
Published: October 2018

A mechanism for the formation of hydrogen peroxide by lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) in the absence of substrate is proposed.
Metal-based nanostructured materials for advanced lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Balach Juan , Linnemann Julia , Jaumann Tony , Giebeler Lars
Published: October 2018

This review spotlights the recent progress to enhance the electrochemical performance of Li–S batteries by using nanostructured metal-based materials.
Enriched nucleation sites for Pt deposition on ultrathin WO3nanosheets with unique interactions for methanol oxidation
Authors: Zhang Yiqiong , Shi Yongliang , Chen Ru , Tao Li , Xie Chao , Liu Dongdong , Yan Dafeng , Wang Shuangyin
Published: October 2018

We have successfully prepared ultrathin WO3nanosheets with enriched oxygen vacancies and enhanced surface roughness by Ar plasma exfoliation. Owing to the unique interactions, the Pt nanoparticles supported on defective WO3show significantly enhanced electrocatalytic activity for the methanol oxidation reaction.
New class of artificial enzyme composed of Mn-porphyrin, imidazole, and cucurbit[10]uril toward use as a therapeutic antioxidant
Authors: Kubota Riku , Takabe Taiga , Arima Kohe , Taniguchi Hideaki , Asayama Shoichiro , Kawakami Hiroyoshi
Published: October 2018

In this study, we investigated a new class of artificial enzymes composed of Mn-porphyrin, imidazole, and cucurbit[10]uril (CB[10]) toward therapeutic antioxidants.
3D graphene/hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin nanocomposite as an electrochemical chiral sensor for the recognition of tryptophan enantiomers
Authors: Liang Wenting , Rong Yanqin , Fan Lifang , Dong Wenjuan , Dong Qingchen , Yang Cheng , Zhong Zhihui , Dong Chuan , Shuang Shaomin , Wong Wai-Yeung
Published: October 2018

A novel and facile chiral sensing platform has been designed for electrochemical enantiomer recognition based on the coupling of three-dimensional-graphene with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (3D-G/HP-β-CD).
Role of Annexin A2 isoform 2 on the aggregative growth of dermal papillae cells
Authors: Gu Jing , Ma Yinni , Yang Lijia , Wang Feng , Lei Cao , Zhai Jianxin , Xia Rushan
Published: October 2018

The dermal papilla is a major component of hair, which signals the follicular epithelial cells to prolong the hair growth process. Human Annexin A2 was preliminarily identified by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE), MALDI-TOF-MS and database searching. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of Annexin A2 in the aggregative growth of dermal papillae cells (DPC). Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blot were adopted to detect the expression of Annexin A2. And siRNA technique was used to suppress the expression of Annexin A2. Construction of over-expression vector was used to up-regulate the expression of Annexin A2. Cell Counting Kit 8 (CCK-8) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were taken to detect the proliferation of DPC. The expression of Annexin A2 mRNA was up-regulated in passage 3 DPC compared with passage 10 DPC by RT-PCR. In line with the results at the mRNA level, Western blot analysis revealed that Annexin A2 isoform 2 was up-regulated significantly in passage 3 DPC compared with passage 10 DPC. The Annexin A2 isoform 2 siRNA was synthesized and transfected into passage 3 DPC. RT-PCR data showed the mRNA expression of Annexin A2 isoform 2 was suppressed in passage 3 DPC. Western blot results showed the expression level of Annexin A2 isoform 2 and PCNA were suppressed in passage 3 DPC. CCK-8 results showed that the proliferation of passage 3 DPC was suppressed (P < 0.05). Recombinant plasmid PLJM-Annexin A2 isoform 2-expression vector were constructed and were transfected into passage 10 DPC. RT-PCR data showed the mRNA expression of Annexin A2 isoform 2 was up-regulated in passage 10 DPC. Western blot results showed the expression level of annexin A2 isoform 2 and PCNA were up-regulated in passage 10 DPC. CCK-8 assay showed the proliferation of DPC was stimulated compared with control group (*P < 0.05). Our study proved that Annexin A2 isoform 2 may participate in regulating the proliferation of DPC and may be related to aggregative growth of dermal papilla cells. Therefore, our study suggests that Annexin A2 may be linked to hair follicle growth cycle.
Osteogenic protein-1 inhibits nucleus pulposus cell apoptosis through regulating the NF-κB/ROS pathway in an inflammation environment
Authors: Yu Wei , Fu Jiabin , Liu Yan , Wu Yuchi , Jiang Dianming
Published: October 2018

Background: Intervertebral disc degeneration is a pathological process that involves an inflammation response. As a classical cellular feature, several studies have demonstrated that inflammation can promote nucleus pulposus (NP) cell apoptosis. Therefore, attenuation of NP cell apoptosis may be a potential way to retard disc degeneration.

Objective: The present study was aimed to investigate the protective effects of osteogenic protein-1 (OP-1) against NP cell apoptosis in an inflammation environment, and the potential signaling transduction pathway.

Methods: Rat NP cells were cultured in medium with or without inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α for 6 days. The exogenous TNF-α was added into the medium to investigate its protective effects. NP cell apoptosis was evaluated by cell apoptosis ratio, caspase-3 activity, gene/protein expression of apoptosis-related molecules (Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3). Additionally, the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) content and activity of the NF-κB pathway were also analyzed.

Results: Compared with the control NP cells, TNF-α significantly increased cell apoptosis ratio, caspase-3 activity, gene/protein expression of Bcl-2, Bax and caspase-3, ROS content, and activity of the NF-κB pathway. However, OP-1 partly attenuated these effects in NP cells treated with TNF-α.

Conclusion: OP-1 is effective in attenuating TNF-α-caused NP cell apoptosis, and the ROS/NF-κB pathway may be the potential signaling transduction pathway. The present study indicates that OP-1 may be helpful to inhibit inflammation-mediated disc degeneration.
Potential for endocannabinoid system modulation in ocular pain and inflammation: filling the gaps in current pharmacological options
Authors: Lafreniere J. Daniel , Kelly Melanie E.M.
Published: October 2018

Challenges in the management of ocular pain are an underappreciated topic. Currently available therapeutics lack both efficacy and clear guidelines for their use, with many also possessing unacceptable side effects. Promising novel agents would offer analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and possibly neuroprotective actions; have favorable ocular safety profiles; and show potential in managing neuropathic pain. Growing evidence supports a link between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and a range of physiological and disease processes, notably those involving inflammation and pain. Both preclinical and clinical data suggest analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions of cannabinoids and ECS-modifying drugs in chronic pain conditions, including those of neuropathic origin. This review will examine existing evidence for the anatomical and physiological basis of ocular pain, specifically, ocular surface disease and the development of chronic ocular pain. The mechanism of action, efficacy, and limitations of currently available treatments will be discussed, and current knowledge related to ECS-modulation of ocular pain and inflammatory disease will be summarized. A perspective will be provided on the future directions of ECS research in terms of developing cannabinoid therapeutics for ocular pain.
A Phenomenological Analysis of the Experience of Stuttering
Authors: Tichenor Seth , Yaruss J. Scott
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Stuttering behaviors and moments of stuttering are typically defined by what a listener perceives. This study evaluated participants' perceptions of their own experience of moments of stuttering.

Method

Thirteen adults who stutter participated in a phenomenological qualitative study examining their experience of moments of stuttering. Analysis yielded several common themes and subthemes culminating in an essential structure describing the shared experience.

Results

Speakers experience anticipation and react in action and nonaction ways. Many speakers experience a loss of control that relates to a lack of a well-formed speech plan or agency. The experience of moments of stuttering changes through therapy, over time, with self-help, and across situations. Many speakers experience so-called typical stuttering behaviors as reactions rather than direct consequences of trying to speak. Interactions with listeners can affect the experience of stuttering.

Conclusion

Although research recognizes that the experience of the stuttering disorder involves more than just speech behaviors, people who stutter experience stuttering behaviors in time as involving more than just the disruption in speech. This finding has implications for both the theoretical understanding of stuttering and the clinical evaluation and treatment of the stuttering disorder.
Accurate digital interface with low‐component count for sine‐cosine shaft encoders
Authors: Nandapurkar K.B. , Anoop C.S. , Dutta P.K.
Published: October 2018

A digital high‐accuracy interface for sine–cosine shaft encoders (SCE) is proffered. The outputs of SCE vary as a sine and cosine functions of shaft angle. The proposed interface processes these outputs and renders a linear direct‐digital output for 360° operating range. The interface has minimal dependence on many circuit non‐idealities including the phase error of quadrature oscillator. The performance of the interface is verified using simulation and emulation‐based studies. Furthermore, the interface is tested with a magneto‐resistance‐based SCE. Test results show that the output non‐linearity remains around 0.27% for typical values of phase errors. The interface also possesses features such as low‐component count, high linearity, direct‐digital output etc.
Grid synchronisation framework for partially shaded solar PV‐based microgrid using intelligent control strategy
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Singh Bhim , Panigrahi Bijaya Ketan
Published: October 2018

This work introduces a novel damped fifth‐order generalized integrator (DFOGI) based control algorithm for grid‐integrated solar photovoltaic (PV) system. Moreover, for GMPPT (Global Maximum Power Point Tracking), HPO (Human Psychology Optimisation) algorithm is used. Here, a three‐phase three wire, single‐stage topology of grid‐integrated partially shaded PV array is implemented. Global maximum power peak searching behavior of HPO algorithm is very rapid and accurate, which gives a satisfactory steady‐state and dynamic performances, even in rapid solar irradiance change condition. The prime objective of proposed DFOGI control is to accurately transfer the solar power to the grid at unity power factor, even when grid suffers from abnormal and adverse conditions. During these conditions, on the grid side, the power quality is maintained, where the proposed control technique provides power factor correction, and harmonics mitigation. The proposed techniques are modeled, and their performances are verified experimentally on a developed prototype, in solar insolation variation conditions, as well as in different grid disturbances such as over and under‐voltage, phase imbalance, harmonics distortion in the grid voltage etc. Test results have met the objectives of the proposed work and parameters are under the permissible limit, according to the IEEE‐519 standard.
Granular load‐side frequency control with electric spring aggregators and leader–follower consensus
Authors: Zhang Congchong , Liu Tao , Yan Shuo , Hill David J.
Published: October 2018

To utilise load‐side control for frequency regulation in transmission networks, the designed control schemes need to be granulated down to the subtransmission level as only aggregate loads are used on the transmission level. Moreover, due to a higher R/X ratio in subtransmission networks, the active power changes caused by frequency control will influence bus voltages. To achieve the required active power response and regulate bus voltages, a control scheme is proposed for subtransmission networks by adopting electric spring (ES) aggregators consisting of ESs and non‐critical loads. To implement the dual goals, the ES voltage of each ES aggregator is decoupled into d and q components. A distributed leader‐following consensus algorithm is adopted for ES aggregators to control its active power consumption by sharing information with neighbouring aggregators. The d component of the ES voltage is adjusted accordingly to provide the required active power cooperatively. To avoid the consequent voltage variation, decentralised proportional–integral (PI) control is adopted for ES aggregators to adjust the q component of the ES voltage accordingly. Simulation results show that ES aggregators manage to achieve the required coordinated active power response to regulate frequency and keep bus voltages within the acceptable region under the proposed control method.
Conceptual design of a compact four‐element UWB MIMO slot antenna array
Authors: Saad Ayman Ayd R. , Mohamed Hesham A.
Published: October 2018

In this study, an effective methodology to design a compact four‐element multiple‐input–multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna with high performance over ultra‐wide bandwidth (BW) is presented and discussed. Taking the advantages of symmetry of most planar ultra‐wideband (UWB) antennas, an asymmetric feeding scheme technique is utilised to chop a previously developed UWB slot antenna with overall dimensions of 30 mm × 30 mm into two halves to yield a more compact structure while retaining its overall frequency‐ and time‐domain performances. Benefiting from orthogonal orientation, a compact UWB MIMO antenna system is arranged using four half‐sized elements. The proposed MIMO antenna has an overall size of 40 mm × 40 mm and exhibits impedance BW from 2.94 to more than 14 GHz (10 dB return loss) with port isolation better than 17 dB over the entire operating band without using any decoupling structures. This is achieved via the inherent directional radiation properties of slot antenna elements and their asymmetrical placements. Envelope correlation coefficient is computed, and it is within the acceptable limit, which validates the design concept for building a compact MIMO antenna system with good performance.
One‐dimensional leaky‐wave antenna with scanning through the broadside based on sinusoidally modulated reactance surface
Authors: Montaseri Nasser , Mallahzadeh Alireza
Published: October 2018

A dispersion diagram (DD) and radiation property in a wide‐band frequency range are considered for a periodic leaky‐wave antenna (PLWA) based on artificial reactance surface (ARS). In the first step, the surface impedance versus gap spacing over a wide frequency band is obtained using full‐wave simulation results. In the second step, the frequency dependency effect of ARS on DD of PLWA in the special frequency band is theoretically analysed. The new DD provides a simple way to analyse the radiation beam angle in a wide frequency band for these types of periodic structures. To mitigate and almost eliminate the open stopband, special parameters of sinusoidally modulated ARS are theoretically analysed and the results show how to achieve minimum variations in attenuation near the broadside. By nearly eliminating the open stopband's behaviour, the proposed antenna is able to scan through the broadside without any rapidly varying attenuation. Simulation and measurement results of the proposed antenna validate the theoretical analysis.
Prediction of astrometric microlensing events from Gaia DR2 proper motions
Authors: Klüter J. , Bastian U. , Demleitner M. , Wambsganss J.
Published: October 2018

Context. Astrometric gravitational microlensing is an excellent tool to determine the mass of stellar objects. Using precise astrometric measurements of the lensed position of a background source in combination with accurate predictions of the positions of the lens and the unlensed source it is possible to determine the mass of the lens with an accuracy of a few percent.

Aims. Making use of the recently published Gaia Data Release 2 (DR2) catalogue, we want to predict astrometric microlensing events caused by foreground stars with high proper motion passing a background source in the coming decades.

Results. We selected roughly 148 000 high-proper-motion stars from Gaia DR2 with μtot > 150 mas yr−1 as potential lenses. We then searched for background sources close to their paths. Using the astrometric parameters of Gaia DR2, we calculated the future positions of source and lens. With a nested-intervals algorithm we determined the date and separation of the closest approach. Using Gaia DR2 photometry we determined an approximate mass of the lens, which we used to calculate the expected microlensing effects.

Conclusions. We predict 3914 microlensing events caused by 2875 different lenses between 2010 and 2065, with expected shifts larger than 0.1 mas between the lensed and unlensed positions of the source. Of those, 513 events are expected to happen between 2014.5 and 2026.5 and might be measured by Gaia. For 127 events we also expect a magnification between 1 mmag and 3 mag.
Stellar systems in the direction of Pegasus I
Authors: González Nélida M. , Smith Castelli Analía V. , Faifer Favio R. , Escudero Carlos G. , Cellone Sergio A.
Published: October 2018

Context. In spite of the numerous studies of low-luminosity galaxies in different environments, there is still no consensus about their formation scenario. In particular, a large number of galaxies displaying extremely low surface brightnesses have been detected in recent years and the nature of these objects is still under discussion.

Aims. In order to enlarge the sample of known low-surface-brightness (LSB) galaxies and to try to provide clues about their nature, we report the detection of eight such objects ( μeff,g′≃ 27 mag arcsec−2) towards the group of galaxies Pegasus I. They are located, in projection, within a radius of ∼200 kpc in the very center of Pegasus I, close to the dominant elliptical galaxies NGC 7619 and NGC 7626.

Methods. We analyzed deep, high-quality GEMINI-GMOS images with ELLIPSE within IRAF in order to obtain their brightness profiles and structural parameters. We also fit Sérsic functions to these profiles in order to compare their properties with those of typical early-type galaxies.

Results. Assuming that these galaxies are at the distance of Pegasus I, we have found that their sizes are intermediate among similar objects reported in the literature. In particular, we found that three of these galaxies can be classified as ultra-diffuse galaxies and a fourth one displays a nucleus. The eight new LSB galaxies show significant color dispersion around the extrapolation towards faint luminosities of the color–magnitude relation defined by typical early-type galaxies. In addition, they display values of the Sérsic index below 1 (concave brightness profiles in linear scale), in agreement with values obtained for LSB galaxies in other environments.

Conclusions. We show that there seems to be a bias effect in the size distributions of the detected LSBs in different environments, in the sense that more distant groups/clusters lack small r
eff objects, while large systems are not found in the Local Group and nearby environments. While there may be an actual shortage of large LSB galaxies in low-density environments like the Local Group, the non-detection of small (and faint) systems at large distances is clearly a selection effect. As an example, LSB galaxies with similar sizes to those of the satellites of Andromeda in the Local Group will be certainly missed in a visual identification at the distance of Pegasus I.
Parallel in Time Algorithms for Nonlinear Iterative Methods
Authors: Gaja Mustafa , Gorynina Olga
Published: October 2018

In this paper we investigate the feasibility of applying the Parareal algorithm [5, 6] for quasi-static nonlinear structural analysis problems. We describe how this proposal has been realized and present some preliminary numerical results of applying this algorithm to a beam undergoing nonlinear deflection with a contact boundary condition. Further numerical experiments are needed to provide an evidence for the effciency of the method.
Calcific deposit needling in combination with extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT): A proposed treatment for supraspinatus calcified tendinopathy
Authors: Pakos Emilios , Gkiatas Ioannis , Rakkas Georgios , Papadopoulos Dimitrios , Gelalis Ioannis , Vekris Marios , Korompilias Anastasios
Published: October 2018

Background: Calcified tendinopathy of the rotator cuff is one of the most common conditions concerning the shoulder pathology. It is characterized by a reactive calcification that affects the tendons being part of the rotator cuff. The reported prevalence varies from 2.7% to 22%. Most of the patients can be treated effectively with non-operative measures such as anti-inflammatory drugs, subacromial injection of steroid, physiotherapy, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and needle aspiration irrigation. Results of a treatment combining some of these methods have not been reported.

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to present the radiological as well as the clinical results of our proposed protocol which combines drilling of the calcium deposits with xylocaine under ultrasound guidance, with a specific program of physiotherapy for 1 month without the use of NSAIDs.

Methods: Sixty-six consecutive patients (68 shoulders) were treated for calcified tendinitis of supraspinatus, which was diagnosed clinically and radiologically, with needle drilling using xylocaine under ultrasound guidance. After the drilling the patient followed a physiotherapy protocol with ESWT which included five visits within a month. After the end of the physiotherapy, the patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score were measured before and after the end of the therapy.

Results: All the patients showed clinical improvement of the symptoms at the follow-up. The mean VAS score showed improvement from 8.1 to 3.3 whereas the mean DASH score was 27 and after the end of the therapy 5. Radiologically all but one calcific deposits were disappeared.

Conclusions: The ultrasound-guided drilling of the calcific deposit using xylocaine, in combination with physiotherapy using ESWT provides a reliable alternative treatment for the calcific tendinitis of the supraspinatus
Komplikationen nach Septumplastik analysiert
Authors: Schrom Thomas
Published: October 2018

Dąbrowska-Bień J et al. Complications in septoplasty based on a large group of 5639 patients. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2018; 275: 1789–1794

In der Literatur fehlen Angaben zu Komplikationen nach alleiniger Septumplastik sowie der Kombination von Septumplastik mit Nasenmuschelreduktion in großen
Populationen. Eine Arbeitsgruppe aus Warschau versuchte Komplikationen bei der Septumplastik zu bestimmen und die Inzidenz in Abhängigkeit von der
Operationstechnik zu analysieren.
Mundhöhlenkarzinom: Optionen zum Erhalt der Unterkieferspeicheldrüse
Authors: Jecker Peter
Published: October 2018

Cakir Cetin A et al. Submandibular gland invasion and feasibility of gland-sparing neck dissection in oral cavity carcinoma. J Laryngol Otol 2018; 132:
446–451

Ärzte der medizinischen Fakultät der Universität in Izmir untersuchten Inzidenz und relevante Faktoren die mit der Beteiligung Unterkieferspeicheldrüse am
Mundhöhlenkarzinom assoziiert sind. Insbesondere deswegen, um herauszufinden, ob in einem frühen Stadium des Plattenepithelkarzinoms der Mundhöhle die
Möglichkeit besteht, die Unterkieferspeicheldrüse zu erhalten.
Statement of the Uterus Committee of the Gynaecological Oncology Working Group (AGO) on the PORTEC-3 study
Authors: Emons Günther , Tempfer Clemens , Battista Marco , Mustea Alexander , Vordermark Dirk
Published: October 2018

The data on the adjuvant therapy of endometrial cancer (EC) are inconsistent. Recent studies of this topic such as PORTEC-3, GOG-258 and GOG-249 investigated the value of adjuvant radiotherapy, adjuvant chemotherapy and combined adjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by chemotherapy in patients with endometrial cancer and an increased risk of recurrence. With this statement, the Uterus Committee of the Gynaecological Oncology Working Group (AGO) wishes therefore to interpret the new data and discuss them against the background of the new S3 guideline “Diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with endometrial cancer”.
Management of Urethral Lesions and Urethrovaginal Fistula Formation Following Placement of a Tension-Free Suburethral Sling: Evaluation From a University Continence and Pelvic Floor Centre
Authors: Schöller Dorit , Brucker Sara , Reisenauer Christl
Published: October 2018

Introduction The complication of tape erosion in the urethra following placement of a retropubic (TVT) or transobturator (TOT) tension-free suburethral vaginal sling or an accidental iatrogenic transurethral tape position can result in the formation of a urethrovaginal or vesicovaginal fistula. The objective of the investigation is the evaluation of the management of such rare complications.

Patients and Methods Retrospective analysis of 14 patients who were treated for a urethral lesion or urethrovaginal fistula formation status post TVT/TOT placement between June 2011 and February 2018 in the Tübingen University Department of Gynaecology.

Results As surgical therapy, 57.1% (n = 8) cases underwent vaginal fistula closure using a Martius flap of the labium majus and in 21.4% (n = 3) using a vaginal rotation skin flap. In 21.4% (n = 3), exclusively vaginal suture reconstruction of the urethra following excision of the tape running transurethrally or tape erosion was performed. 50% (n = 7) of the patients had lasting continence postoperatively without any further need for therapy. In 28.6% (n = 4), there was ongoing stress urinary incontinence, in 21.4% (n = 3) mixed urinary incontinence. Six of the 7 patients with persistent incontinence underwent new placement of a tension-free suburethral retropubic sling (TVT) an average of 8.8 months (5 – 13 months) postoperatively which was uncomplicated in all patients and achieved satisfactory continence. The 3 patients with mixed urinary incontinence and persistent urgency components additionally received anticholinergic medication. During the time period investigated, there were no long-term complications, in particular no recurrent fistulas.

Conclusion The rare but relevant complications of a urethral erosion, transurethral tape position or urethrovaginal fistula formation status post TVT/TOT placement can be successfully managed via vaginal surgery. Persistent postoperative urinary incontinence with the need for a two-phase repeat TVT placement following sufficient wound healing must be preoperatively clarified.
Needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy of pancreatic cystic lesions: a prospective multicenter validation study in patients with definite diagnosis
Authors: Napoleon Bertrand , Palazzo Maxime , Lemaistre Anne-Isabelle , Caillol Fabrice , Palazzo Laurent , Aubert Alain , Buscail Louis , Maire Frédérique , Morellon Blandine Mialhe , Pujol Bertrand , Giovannini Marc
Published: October 2018

Background Needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE) enables observation of the inner wall of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) during an endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA). This study prospectively evaluated the diagnostic performance of nCLE for large, single, noncommunicating PCLs using surgical histopathology or EUS-FNA cytohistopathology as a reference diagnosis.

Methods From April 2013 to March 2016, consecutive patients referred for EUS-FNA of indeterminate PCLs without evidence of malignancy or chronic pancreatitis were prospectively enrolled at five centers. EUS-FNA and nCLE were performed and cystic fluid was aspirated for cytohistopathological and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) analysis. The diagnostic performance of nCLE was assessed against the reference standard and compared with that of EUS and CEA. This study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01563133).

Results 206 patients underwent nCLE and 78 PCLs (mean size 40 mm, range 20 – 110 mm) had reference diagnoses (53 premalignant and 25 benign PCLs). Post-procedure pancreatitis occurred in 1.3 % of the patients. nCLE was conclusive in 71 of the 78 cases (91 %). The sensitivies and specifities of nCLE for the diagnosis of serous cystadenoma, mucinous PCL, and premalignant PCL were all ≥ 0.95 (with 95 % confidence interval from 0.85 to 1.0). The AUROC was significantly larger for nCLE than for CEA or EUS.

Conclusions nCLE had excellent diagnostic performance that surpassed that of CEA and EUS for the diagnosis of large, single, noncommunicating PCLs. The nCLE procedure should be considered in patients with indeterminate PCLs to ensure a more specific diagnosis.
Lungenszintigraphie (Version 3)
Authors: Schümichen Carl , Schmidt Matthias , Krause Thomas
Published: October 2018

In der aktualisierten und erweiterten S1-Leitlinie zur Lungenszintigraphie werden die Vorzüge der Methode beim Nachweis der akuten Lungenembolie (LE) in der Lungenperipherie (subsegmentale LE), bei subakuten und chronischen Grunderkrankungen der Lunge, sowie beim Nachweis der chronischen LE (CTEPH) herausgestellt. Methode der Wahl ist die Ventilations/Perfusions(V/P)-SPECT oder V/P-SPECT/CT mit nochmals gesteigerter Spezifität. Aufgrund der hohen Sensitivität wird, um eine Übertherapie zu vermeiden, ein Schwellenwert eingeführt (V/P-mismatch in mindestens einem Segment oder zwei Subsegmenten). Im Falle eines veränderten Therapieverhaltens (nur Observation anstelle Antikoagulation) kann der Schwellenwert entfallen. Zur klinisch-therapeutischen Wertigkeit von subsementalen LE werden neue Daten präsentiert, die Kapitel offene Fragen wurden erweitert. Die weiteren Indikationen für V/P-SPECT (Nebendiagnosen, Anomalien der Lungenperfusion, Voraussage der postoperativen Lungenfunktion) werden mit neueren Daten hinterlegt.
A low noise power supply based on buck converter for current regulation in an inductive load
Authors: Liu Wenbin , Tan Yi , Gao Zhe , Chai Song , Hong Seulchan
Published: October 2018

High current regulations are widely required in tokamaks to generate a specific magnetic field for plasma confinement which is challenging for power electronics. For high current regulation, the stray inductance will cause high noise and surge voltage that may damage the power electronics. In addition, it is difficult to ensure both a fast response and a steady evolution. In this paper, a power supply based on a buck converter for high current regulation in an inductive load is described, in which insulated gate bipolar transistors are used as switches and two capacitor banks are used for energy storage. The first stage capacitor bank at a higher voltage ensures the fast current growth rate at the beginning of discharge and plays the role of wave filter later to reduce the noise. The second stage capacitor bank at a lower voltage provides the main energy required during discharge. A microcontroller is used to regulate the current by a feedback mechanism. This power supply can regulate the high current in an inductive load with low noise and fast response, which has been applied to the poloidal field coils and the ultrafast reciprocating probe system in the SUNIST (Sino-UNIted Spherical Tokamak) spherical tokamak.
A general approach for the calculation and characterization of x-ray absorption spectra
Authors: Neville Simon P. , Schuurman Michael S.
Published: October 2018

We present a general approach for the calculation and assignment of X-ray absorption spectra based on electronic wavepacket propagations performed using explicitly time-dependent electronic structure calculations. Such calculations have the appeal of yielding the entire absorption spectrum for the cost of a single set of electronic wavepacket propagations, obviating the need to explicitly calculate large numbers of core-excited states. The spectrum can either be calculated from the Fourier transform of the time-dependent dipole moment or from the Fourier transform of the wavepacket autocorrelation function. We propose that calculating the absorption spectrum using the latter approach will generally be the preferred option. This method has two important advantages. First, the autocorrelation functions can be obtained for twice the propagation time, resulting in a halving of the computational effort required to calculate the spectrum relative to the time-dependent dipole moment approach. Second, using the tools of filter diagonalisation, the autocorrelation functions may be used to determine the time-independent final core-excited states underlying the peaks of interest in the spectrum. The proposed scheme is validated by calculating and characterizing the X-ray absorption spectra of benzene and trifluoroacetonitrile at the time-dependent second-order algebraic diagrammatic construction level of theory.
Feltman: evaluating the utilisation of an Aboriginal diabetes education tool by health professionals
Authors: Xu Hannah , Geros Christina , Turner Emma , Egan Mikaela , Cocotis Kristie , Mitchell Colin , Arambasic Natalie , Browne Jennifer
Published: October 2018

Diabetes contributes considerably to the health disparities in the Aboriginal population. To address the lack of Aboriginal-specific diabetes education tools, Feltman was designed for health professionals to deliver diabetes prevention and management information. This qualitative study aims to explore how this resource was used and its perceived effect on diabetes prevention and management in Victorian Aboriginal communities. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 18 participants (n=6 were Aboriginal) who had attended Feltman training between 2010 and 2016. Semi-structured interviews conducted via telephone or face-to-face were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed via content analysis. Content analysis identified three main categories regarding Feltman: (1) utilisation in Aboriginal and mainstream health services; (2) as a comprehensive, engaging tool that supports understanding of diabetes; and (3) the barriers and challenges to Feltman’s use. Overall, Feltman was regarded as a culturally appropriate diabetes education tool that is visual, tactile, engaging, supportive of health literacy and perceived to enhance Community members’ understanding of diabetes prevention and management. This is the first study to provide insight into Feltman’s implementation; adding to the evidence-base for Aboriginal-specific diabetes education tools.