bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substantiation of expedience
of application of high-temperature
utilization of used tires for liquefied
methane production
Authors: Vambol S. , Vambol V. , Kondratenko O. , Koloskov V. , Suchikova Y.
Published: August 2018

Purpose: The purpose of this investigation is to substantiate by means of numerical simulation
the expedience of high-temperature utilization of used tires with subsequent methanation of fuel
gases and separation of multicomponent hydrocarbon mixtures to drain the liquefied methane.
Design/methodology/approach: The investigation was carried out by means of numerical
simulation. In mathematical description of gas processes relations of thermodynamics and
heat and mass transfer were used. To determine the coefficients of thermal and physical
parameters of working bodies the Peng-Robinson equation of state was used through the
computer program REFPROP. The system of equations is represented as the interrelations
between the functional elements according to the principle "output from the element A – input
into the element B". Its solution was obtained by the method of successive approximations,
namely by the Newton-Raphson iteration method. Using this method we have determined
the values of temperature, pressure, mass flow rate and mass content of the hydrocarbon
gas mixture components in each reference cross-section of the power facility.
Findings: As a result of numerical simulation, it is determined that when the multicomponent
hydrocarbon mixtures are separated, three flows of energy resources may be obtained: with
a high mass content of methane of 91.5% and 83.4%, which may be used as motor fuel, and
a gas flow suitable for maintaining the process of waste gasification. However, to remove
heat in the condenser of the rectification column, it is necessary to use expensive liquid
nitrogen. The cost of methane production may be reduced if the condenser is removed from
the rectification column. However, such approach reduces the overall yield of commercial
products almost in four times and significantly reduces the methane with the third product
(molar percentage of 35%).
Research limitations/implications: The investigation was carried out for the material of
used tires without a metal frame.
Practical implications: The implementation of the technology of high-temperature recycling
of used tires gives the opportunity to use the generated synthetic gas to maintain the process
of utilization, and gives the opportunity to produce liquefied methane, suitable for storage.
Originality/value: The main problem of high-temperature recycling of tires is the emission
of toxic gas to the atmosphere. It is proposed to allocate methane energy resource from this
gas. For the first time an attempt was made to justify the expedience of the technology of
high-temperature utilization of tires for liquefied methane production.
Determinação dos parâmetros de modelos biomatemáticos
Authors: Rafikov Marat M.
Published: August 2018

Two main methods of resolving problems related to the identification of dynamic models are known. The first method can be used when there is sufficient data of the modeled system and when the application of a statistical hypothesis is allowed. The other method can be used when no serious base to apply statistical hypothesis exists. In the latter, the problem of identification becomes a problem of adjusting parameters to the model and data observed. Two algorithms of such adjusting parameters are presented in this paper. One algorithm is based on particular characteristic of the preypredador system. In this case the average values of prey and predators, during a certain period, are equal for ali solutions. The other algorithm reduces the identification problem to the resolution of a linear algebraic equation system, where the number of equations is greater than the number of variables. The proposed algorithms were used to analyze the population of soybean caterpillars (Anticarsia gemmatalis) and it's natural enemies, living togather, in a prey-predator system. The results show that a good approximation between parameters of model and observed data occured.
MULTIPLE CRITERIA FAULT DETECTION OF A BLDC MOTOR (BRUSHLESS DIRECT CURRENT)
Authors: ALVAREZ SALAS RICARDO , MALDONADO RUELAS VICTOR ARTURO , VILLALOBOS PIÑA FRANCISCO J , ORTIZ MEDINA RAUL ARTURO
Published: August 2018

This work presents a multiple criteria approach for stator fault detection (FD) in an in-wheel brushless DC (BLDC) motor for electric vehicles. The detection of inter-turn short circuits in the stator windings of the BLDC is studied.
The fault detection scheme is performed based on the instantaneous space phasor (ISP). The fault signature (residual) is built using the fast Fourier transform (FFT) and discrete wavelet transform (DWT).
An experimental setup comprising a modified in-wheel BLDC was used to validate this approach.
The results of signal processing based FD are verified by an analysis made with thermographic techniques.

Key Words: in-wheel BLDC motor, fault detection, FFT, DWT, entropy, infrared image, electric vehicle.
Variability in Antarctic sea ice from 1998-2017
Authors: Wu Zhankai , Wang Xingdong
Published: August 2018

This study was based on the daily sea ice concentration data from the National Snow and Ice Data Center (Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, Boulder, CO, USA) from 1998 to 2017. The Antarctic sea ice was analysed from the total sea ice area (SIA), first year ice area, first year ice melt duration, and multiyear ice area. On a temporal scale, the changes in sea ice parameters were studied over the whole 20 years and for two 10-year periods. The results showed that the total SIA increased by 0.0083×106 km2 yr-1 (+2.07% dec-1) between 1998 and 2017. However, the total SIA in the two 10-year periods showed opposite trends, in which the total SIA increased by 0.026×106 km2 yr-1 between 1998 and 2007 and decreased by 0.0707×106 km2 yr-1 from 2008 to 2017. The first year ice area increased by 0.0059×106 km2 yr-1 and the melt duration decreased by 0.0908 days yr-1 between 1998 and 2017. The multiyear ice area increased by 0.0154×106 km2 yr-1 from 1998 to 2017, and the increase in the last 10 years was about 12.1% more than that in the first 10 years. On a spatial scale, the Entire Antarctica was divided into two areas, namely West Antarctica (WA) and East Antarctica (EA), according to the spatial change rate of sea ice concentration. The results showed that WA had clear warming in recent years; the total sea ice and multiyear ice areas showed a decreasing trend; multiyear ice area sharply decreased and reached the lowest value in 2017, and accounted for only about 10.1% of the 20-year average. However, the total SIA and multiyear ice area all showed an increased trend in EA, in which the multiyear ice area increased by 0.0478×106 km2 yr-1. Therefore, Antarctic sea ice presented an increasing trend, but there were different trends in WA and EA. Different sea ice parameters in WA and EA showed an opposite trend from 1998 to 2007. However, the total SIA, first year ice area, and multiyear ice area all showed a decreasing trend from 2008-2017, especially the total sea ice and first year ice, which changed almost the same in 2014-2017. In summary, although the Antarctic sea ice has increased slightly over time, it has shown a decreasing trend in recent years.
Prediction of 3000-m Running Performance Using Classic Physiological Respiratory Responses
Authors: Lourenço Thiago F. , O. C. da Silva Fernando , Tessutti Lucas S. , E. da Silva Carlos , C. C. Abad Cesar
Published: August 2018

Introduction: Knowing which physiological variables predict running performance could help coaches to optimize training prescription to improve running performance. Objective: The present study investigated which physiological respiratory responses could predict 3000-m running performance. Methods: Seventeen amateur runners (29.82±7.1years; 173.12±9.0cm; 64.59±9.3kg) performed a maximal graded running test on a treadmill. The ventilatory threshold (VT), respiratory compensation point (RCP), and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) were assessed, as well as the respective velocities (vVT, vRCP, vVO2max). After 72 to 96 hours the runners performed the 3000-m running field test. The relationships between variables were performed using Pearson product momentum correlations. Thereafter, simple and multiple regression models were applied. The significance level adopted was 5% (p<0.05). Results: The majority of physiological responses were positive and well related to each other (r≥0.70; p<0.05). Despite vVT, vRCP, and vVO2max demonstrating a higher and inverse relationship with 3000-m time (r=-0.92; r =-0.96; r =-0.89; p<0.05), the multiple regression model indicated that vRCP and vVO2max are the best variables to predict 3000-m performance in experienced amateur road runners (R2=0.94). The equation proposed by the model was: 3000-m(s)=1399.21–[31.65*vRCP(km.h-1)]–[12.06*vVO2max (km.h-1)]. Conclusion: The vRCP and vVO2max may be used to predict 3000-m performance using only a maximal running test on a treadmill. In practical terms, coaches and physical conditioners can use performance in the 3000-m to select different exercise running intensities to prescribe exercise training intensities.
Design and Implementation of Multiband Microstrip Patch Antenna for Wireless Applications
Authors: Prasad L. , Ramesh B. , Kumar K. S. R. , Vinay K. P.
Published: August 2018

Multiband phased array antennas are required for today’s multi-function communication applications. Generally Microstrip antenna arrays like Kotch array, Sierpinski array are used, but in some circuits where space is limited, arrays are not used. Therefore, to achieve the multiband operation with limited space, an antenna is designed with E-shaped in combination with split ring resonator to achieve the multiband operation. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed antenna operates at four different frequencies, 1.8GHz, 3.6GHz, 4.53GHz and 5.73GHz, which can be used for different wireless applications like GSM 1800 (1.71– 1.78 GHz), WiMAX (3.4-3.69GHz) -IEEE 802.16 standards, Wi-Fi/WLAN (5.15-5.82 GHz). All the simulation results like resonant frequency, return loss, radiation patterns and fabricated antenna measured result is presented in this paper. The antenna is simulated using CST 2014 software.
Epidemiology of and risk factors for extrapulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infections in Northeast Thailand
Authors: Kham-ngam Irin , Chetchotisakd Ploenchan , Ananta Pimjai , Chaimanee Prajaub , Sadee Phuangphaka , Reechaipichitkul Wipa , Faksri Kiatichai
Published: August 2018

Background

Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infection is increasing worldwide. Current epidemiological data and knowledge of risk factors for this disease are limited. We investigated the trends in and risk of NTM infection in Northeast Thailand during 2012–2016.

Methods

Patient demographics, infection site(s), and underlying disease or conditions from 530 suspected cases of NTM infections were retrieved from medical records, reviewed and analyzed. A diagnosis of true NTM infection was accepted in 150 cases. Risk factor analyses were done for extrapulmonary NTM infections compared to pulmonary NTM infections and for Mycobacterium abscessus compared to members of the Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC). Trend analysis among NTM species causing NTM infections was performed.

Results

The most common species of NTMs causing extrapulmonary (n = 114) and pulmonary (n = 36) NTM infections in Northeast Thailand were M. abscessus (25.4% of extrapulmonary infected cases and 27.8% of pulmonary cases) followed by MAC (14.9% of extrapulmonary and 13.9% of pulmonary cases). Presence of anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies was the major risk factor for extrapulmonary (odds ratio (OR) = 20.75, 95%CI [2.70–159.24]) compared to pulmonary NTM infection. M. abscessus infection was less likely (OR = 0.17; 95%CI [0.04–0.80]) to be found in patients with HIV infection than was MAC infection. The prevalence of NTM infection, especially M. abscessus, in Northeast Thailand has recently increased. Extrapulmonary NTM and complicated NTM infections have increased in concordance with the recent trend of increasing frequency of anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies in the population.

Conclusions

M. abscessus was the commonest NTM pathogen followed by MAC. The prevalence of NTM infections and anti-IFN-γ are showing an upward trend. Autoimmune disease due to anti-IFN-γ is the major risk factor for extrapulmonary NTM infection in Northeast Thailand.
Machine learning for combinatorial optimization of brace placement of steel frames
Authors: Tamura Takuya , Ohsaki Makoto , Takagi Jiro
Published: August 2018

A method is presented for optimal placement of braces of plane frames using machine learning. The frame is subjected to static horizontal loads representing seismic loads. We consider the process of seismic retrofit by attaching braces. Therefore, the maximum value of additional stresses in the existing beams and columns and the maximum interstory drift angle are incorporated in the optimization problem. Characteristics of approximate optimal solutions and nonoptimal solutions are extracted using machine learning based on support vector machine and binary decision tree. Convolution and pooling are used for defining the features characterizing the solutions while reducing the number of variables. Optimization is carried out using a heuristic algorithm called simulated annealing based on local search. It is shown in the numerical examples that the computational cost is successfully reduced by avoiding costly structural analysis for a solution judged by machine learning as nonoptimal, and the important features in approximate optimal and nonoptimal solutions are identified.
Nanostructured Functional Hydrogels as an Emerging Platform for Advanced Energy Technologies
Authors: Zhao Fei , Bae Jiwoong , Zhou Xingyi , Guo Youhong , Yu Guihua
Published: August 2018

Nanostructured materials are critically important in many areas of technology because of their unusual physical/chemical properties due to confined dimensions. Owing to their intrinsic hierarchical micro‐/nanostructures, unique chemical/physical properties, and tailorable functionalities, hydrogels and their derivatives have emerged as an important class of functional materials and receive increasing interest from the scientific community. Bottom‐up synthetic strategies to rationally design and modify their molecular architectures enable nanostructured functional hydrogels to address several critical challenges in advanced energy technologies. Integrating the intrinsic or extrinsic properties of various functional materials, nanostructured functional hydrogels hold the promise to break the limitations of current materials, improving the device performance of energy storage and conversion. Here, the focus is on the fundamentals and applications of nanostructured functional hydrogels in energy conversion and storage. Specifically, the recent advances in rational synthesis and modification of various hydrogel‐derived functional nanomaterials as core components in batteries, supercapacitors, and catalysts are summarized, and the perspective directions of this emerging class of materials are also discussed.
Advanced 3D Current Collectors for Lithium‐Based Batteries
Authors: Jin Song , Jiang Yu , Ji Hengxing , Yu Yan
Published: August 2018

Li‐based batteries are a hot research topic because they are the most popular energy storage system for high energy‐density devices. As an important component of the battery, the current collectors in both cathode and anode should be well designed. Herein, the design of 3D current collectors for Li‐based batteries is considered, including 3D metal‐based and carbon‐based current collectors. The progress in nanotechnology provides appropriate 3D current collectors characterized by highly efficient morphologies and architectures. In particular, 3D current collectors with different morphology are classified. Critical factors of current collectors that affect the electrochemical performance of Li‐based batteries are comprehensively debated. Finally, conclusion and perspectives of the future research in this field are discussed.
Interface Design of Hybrid Electron Extraction Layer for Relieving Hysteresis and Retarding Charge Recombination in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Byeong Jo , Kim Min‐cheol , Lee Dong Geon , Lee Gunhee , Bang Gi Joo , Jeon Jae Bum , Choi Mansoo , Jung Hyun Suk
Published: August 2018

Enhancing electron extraction with efficient charge carrier separation, hybrid interface layer composed of amorphous TiO2 and [6,6]‐Phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) is adopted to conventional n‐i‐p perovskite solar cells. In hybrid double layer, a‐TiO2 plays a role about efficient electron selective contact with perovskite material, while PC60 BM help electrons to rapidly extract from perovskite layers. From this new concept of configuration, it is possible to achieve not only high power conversion efficiencies but also low hysteretic behaviors in terms of current–voltage sweep direction. These enhanced characteristics are verified with photoluminescence and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic measurements. With such high efficiency and nonhysteretic perovskite solar cells, it is able to fabricate extremely high‐efficiency flexible perovskite solar cells which can be compared with the world's highest‐efficiency flexible perovskite devices.
Efficient Overcoming of Blood–Brain Barrier by Functionalized Selenium Nanoparticles to Treat Glioma
Authors: Chen Mengqi , Huang Yanyu , Zhu Xueqiong , Hu Xiaoli , Chen Tianfeng
Published: August 2018

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) can block drug delivery into the human brain, and thus remains the primary obstacle in the efficient treatment of glioma. Herein, Polyporus Amboinensis Lam (PAL)‐functionalized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) (hereafter referred to as PAL‐SeNPs) are fabricated as a cancer‐targeted nanosystem to antagonize the BBB and thus enhance anti‐glioma ability. The robust synthesis of PAL‐SeNPs confers the nanosystem with high‐stability and the ideal size for efficient endocytosis in glioma cells. The structure similarity of PAL with αvβ3 integrin, which is overexpressed on glioma cells, increases the selectivity between glioma cells and normal gliocytes via the PAL/αvβ3 integrin‐mediated targeting effect, and displays a favorable anti‐glioma effect by hastening m‐TOR‐mediated cell apoptosis. Pharmacokinetics analysis demonstrates that PAL‐SeNPs improves the half‐life of SeNPs in blood and ensures their sufficient accumulation in the brain. PAL‐SeNPs facilitate effective transportability across the BBB and exhibit superior permeability into glioma tumor spheroid. Taken together, this study provides a robust strategy of using SeNPs to overcome the BBB for enhanced anti‐glioma treatment.
Income, wealth and economic inequality in Australia
Authors: Tapper Alan , Fenna Alan
Published: August 2018

Economic well‐being and economic inequality are usually quantified using income measurements of various sorts. Such analyses overlook the contribution of wealth – a potentially very significant factor. In this article, we integrate wealth and income data to provide a more comprehensive accounting of economic well‐being and economic inequality in Australia. Using the Australian Bureau of Statistics Household Expenditure Survey microdata for 2009–2010, we present a cross‐sectional analysis of wealth‐adjusted income. We examine the relative contributions of income and wealth to wealth‐adjusted income and compare the distribution of wealth‐adjusted income to the distribution of income and the distribution of wealth. Wealth, we find, makes up between one‐fifth and two‐fifths of wealth‐adjusted income; the incorporation of wealth increases the inequality already present in the income distribution (as measured using final incomes) by about 25 per cent.
Severe acute respiratory distress syndrome in a patient with AIDS successfully treated with veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a case report and literature review
Authors: Obata Reiichiro , Azuma Kazunari , Nakamura Itaru , Oda Jun
Published: August 2018

Case

Several successful uses of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for acute respiratory distress syndrome in patients with novel HIV/AIDS infection have been reported; however, the therapeutic keys have not always been discussed.

A 47‐year‐old man was admitted with progressive shortness of breath. He was in respiratory failure with a PaO2/FIO2 ratio of 110.8 requiring intubation. Chest computed tomography showed diffuse ground glass opacities. An HIV infection was suspected, and a diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome was made. Based on clinical indications, treatment for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia and concomitant bacterial infection was started.

Outcome

Despite broad‐spectrum antibiotics, the patient's oxygenation deteriorated, necessitating ECMO. After 19 days of ECMO therapy, the patient was successfully decannulated and was eventually discharged.

Conclusion

In acute respiratory distress syndrome in patients with HIV/AIDS refractory to treatment, ECMO should be considered. Post‐ECMO antiretroviral therapy could improve outcomes.
The Fundamentals of Critical Care Support: local experience and a look into the future
Authors: Killu Keith
Published: August 2018

Fundamentals of Critical Care Support (FCCS) is an educational course offered by the Society of Critical Care Medicine (USA) to provide and augment the basic knowledge for individuals managing critically ill patients. More than 10,000 clinicians every year throughout the world attend FCCS courses, preparing non‐intensivists to manage critically ill patients for the first 24 h until a consultation can be secured. The most important emphasis of the FCCS course is to learn the basic principles and the adaptation of multidisciplinary approaches to managing the critically ill. The curriculum consists of integrated lectures and skills stations helping to provide the knowledge and guidance in decision making. This article is an account of one institution's experience in offering this course for over 12 years.
A Nonheme Sulfur‐Ligated {FeNO}6 Complex and Comparison with Redox‐Interconvertible {FeNO}7 and {FeNO}8 Analogues
Authors: Dey Aniruddha , Confer Alex M. , Vilbert Avery C. , Moënne‐Loccoz Pierre , Lancaster Kyle M. , Goldberg David P.
Published: August 2018

A nonheme {FeNO}6 complex, [Fe(NO)(N3PyS)]2+, was synthesized by reversible, one‐electron oxidation of an {FeNO}7 analogue. This complex completes the first known series of sulfur‐ligated {FeNO}6–8 complexes. All three {FeNO}6–8 complexes are readily interconverted by one‐electron oxidation/reduction. A comparison of spectroscopic data (UV/Vis, NMR, IR, Mössbauer, X‐ray absorption) provides a complete picture of the electronic and structural changes that occur upon {FeNO}6–{FeNO}8 interconversion. Dissociation of NO from the new {FeNO}6 complex is shown to be controlled by solvent, temperature, and photolysis, which is rare for a sulfur‐ligated {FeNO}6 species.
Ultrasmall Nanopipette: Toward Continuous Monitoring of Redox Metabolism at Subcellular Level
Authors: Song Juan , Xu Cong‐Hui , Huang Shi‐Zhen , Lei Wen , Ruan Yi‐Fan , Lu Hai‐Jie , Zhao Wei , Xu Jing‐Juan , Chen Hong‐Yuan
Published: August 2018

Ionic current rectification (ICR) based nanopipettes allow accurate monitoring of cellular behavior in single living cells. Herein, we proposed a 30 nm nanopipette functionalized with G‐quadruplex DNAzyme as an efficient biomimetic recognizer for ROS generation at subcellular level via the changes of current–voltage relationship. Taking advantages of the ultra‐small tip, the nanopipette could penetrate into a single living cell repeatedly or keep measuring for a long time without compromising the cellular functions. Coupled with precision nanopositioning system, generation of ROS in mitochondria in response to cell inflammation was determined with high spatial resolution. Meanwhile, the changes of aerobic metabolism in different cell lines under drug‐induced oxidative stress were monitored continuously. We believe that the ICR‐nanopipette could be developed as a powerful approach for the study of cellular activities via electrochemical imaging in living cells.
Fluorescent poly(hydroxyurethane): Biocompatibility evaluation and selective detection ofFe(III)
Authors: Xu Wan , Liu Bin , Cai Xiaobo , Zhang Mohan , Zhang Xing‐Hong , Yu Peilin
Published: August 2018

Polyurethane (PU) is widely used in biomedical applications owing to its excellent physical and chemical properties. As an isocyanate‐free PU material, fluorescent poly(hydroxyurethane) (FPHU) is synthesized from the addition of the cyclic carbonates with amines rather than the toxic isocyanate with diols, which reduces the possible injury to the human due to trace amounts of the isocyanate residues. Herein, we report the biocompatibility of a FPHU that can be synthesized from carbon dioxide, bisepoxides, and diamine in tandem. Of unique, FPHU exhibits a strong blue fluorescence and is selectively sensitive to Fe3+with a detection limit of 4.56 μM. The overall results of the methylthiazolyldiphenyl‐tetrazolium, cytokine release, and hemolysis assays for FPHU indicates that FPHU has much lower cytotoxicity and immunotoxicity compared with the traditional isocyanate PU, as well as a good blood compatibility with less than 5% hemolysis rate. Therefore, FPHU presents as a kind of safer PU and can be prospectively applied in medical materials.
Flame‐retardant polyacrylonitrile fabric prepared by ultraviolet‐induced grafting with glycidyl methacrylate followed by ammoniation and phosphorylation
Authors: Ren Yuanlin , Qin Yiwen , Liu Xiaohui , Huo Tongguo , Jiang Lina , Tian Tian
Published: August 2018

A novel flame‐retardant polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fabric was successfully prepared by ultraviolet‐induced grafting polymerization of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) onto the surface of PAN fabric (PAN‐g‐GMA) followed by ammoniation and phosphorylation. The effects of irradiation time, initiator concentration, and monomer concentration on the grafting percentage were researched. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy indicated the successful modification. Thermal behaviors of the samples were studied by thermogravimetric and derivative thermogravimetric analysis. The results indicate that the fire‐retardant PAN fabric (FR‐PAN) has good char‐forming ability. Cone calorimeter tests showed that the total heat release of FR‐PAN decreased from 7.3 MJ/m2 to 4.6 MJ/m2 with 37% reduction. At the same time, the peak of heat release rate of FR‐PAN fell from 374 kW/m2 to 162 kW/m2 with 57% decrease. Moreover, the total smoke production and peak of smoke production rate of FR‐PAN dropped from 1.5 m2 and 0.06 m2/s for the control sample to 0.4 m2 and 0.03 m2/s, respectively. The limiting oxygen index value of FR‐PAN fabric was 30.7% after 30 washing cycles, indicating good washing resistance and excellent flame‐retardant durability. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46752.
Continuous Fixed‐Time Controller Design for Dynamic Systems with Unmeasurable States Subject to Unbounded Disturbances
Authors: Basin Michael , Avellaneda Fernando Guerra
Published: August 2018

This paper presents a nonlinear continuous observer‐based controller that provides fixed‐time convergence to the origin (a vicinity of the origin) of a higher‐order dynamic system subject to unbounded disturbances, whose only measurable state is the highest relative degree one. The settling time estimation problem is solved computing an uniform upper bound of the fixed convergence time of the designed controller. Finally, the designed algorithm is verified in a case study of an industrial armature‐controlled DC motor.
Coupling of Nickel Boride and Ni(OH)2 Nanosheets with Hierarchical Interconnected Conductive Porous Structure Synergizes the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Liang Xiaoguang , Dong Ruoting , Li Dapan , Bu Xiuming , Li Fangzhou , Shu Lei , Wei Renjie , Ho Johnny C.
Published: August 2018

Earth‐abundant and highly‐efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are urgently desired to realize the large‐scale storage and conversion of renewable energies. In this work, we develop a hierarchical porous electrocatalyst structure utilizing Ni(OH)2 nanosheets directly synthesized on Ni foam as the conductive and interconnected supports. By coupling with amorphous Ni−B nanoparticles, this hybrid catalyst exhibits dramatically enhanced electrocatalytic activities and durabilities towards OER. In specific, along with the optimized Ni−B loading, this catalyst requires only an impressively small overpotential of 300 mV to drive a current density of 100 mA cm−2 for oxygen evolution in 1 M KOH electrolyte. Meanwhile, it also yields a small Tafel slope of 49 mV dec−1 and a superior long‐term stability. All these results evidently indicate that the hierarchical hybridization of Ni−B with Ni(OH)2 on Ni foam can effectively synergize the oxygen evolution, opening up a new vista for designing high‐performance transition metal‐based nanostructures in the field of electrochemical water splitting.
Application of multivariate statistical techniques to assess the phenolic compounds and the in vitro antioxidant activity of commercial grape cultivars
Authors: Sridhar Kandi , Charles Albert Linton
Published: August 2018

Multivariate statistical techniques were used to differentiate two popularly consumed grape cultivars in Taiwan, Kyoho (Vitis labruscana) and American wild bunch (Vitis aestivalis), based on their phenolic content and antioxidant properties. Total phenol and flavonoid contents, and polyphenolic profile were estimated by the Folin‐Ciocalteu, colorimetric method, and ultra performance liquid chromatography, respectively. Antioxidant activities were determined by 2,2 diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl, 2,2′‐azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide scavenging activity (NOSA), hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity, and total antioxidant activity methods. Data were processed using multivariate analysis of variance, discriminant analysis (DA), principal component analysis (PCA), and cluster analysis. Variations in polyphenolic compositions were attributed to higher TFC (3.42 mg QE/g), ABTS• (79.08%), NOSA (27.62%), total antioxidant (77.91%), and superoxide (46.55%) radical scavenging activities of Kyoho grape extracts; and higher inhibition capacity by DPPH• (97.26%), FRAP (4.66 mM FeSO4/g), and hydrogen peroxide (40.52%) scavenging methods for American wild bunch grape extracts. Two discriminant functions in DA reported the contribution of each phenolic and antioxidant activity in discriminating the cultivars. The results of PCA analysis reported 91.35% of the total variance, which was a suitable approach for evaluating similarities between both cultivars. Statistical analyses confirmed Kyoho and American wild bunch grape extracts differed from each other in terms of polyphenolic composition and antioxidant activities. Therefore, the application of multivariate statistical techniques used in the study provided further understanding on assessment of polyphenols and antioxidant activities of these grape cultivars.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Compressibilities of Mn3−xIr5B2+x (0≤x≤0.5) and Mn2IrB2
Authors: Petermüller Benedikt , Neun Christopher , Stekiel Michal , Zimmer Dominik , Tribus Martina , Wurst Klaus , Winkler Björn , Huppertz Hubert
Published: August 2018

The new ternary transition metal borides Mn3‐xIr5B2+x (0≤x≤0.5) and Mn2IrB2 were synthesized from the elements under high temperature and high‐pressure/high‐temperature conditions. Both phases can be synthesized as powder samples in a radio‐frequency furnace in argon atmosphere. High‐pressure/high‐temperature conditions were used to grow single‐crystals. The phases represent the first ternary compounds within the system Mn–Ir–B. Mn3−xIr5B2+x (0≤x≤0.5) crystallizes in the Ti3Co5B2 structure type (P4/mbm; no. 127) with parameters a=9.332(1), c=2.896(2) Å, and Z=2. Mn2IrB2 crystallizes in the β‐Cr2IrB2 crystal structure type (Cmcm; no. 63) with parameters a=3.135(3), b=9.859(5), c=13.220(3) Å, and Z=8. The compositions of both compounds were confirmed by EDX measurements and the compressibility was determined experimentally for Mn3−xIr5B2+x and by DFT calculations for Mn2IrB2.
Lewis‐Acid Stabilized Organoimide Complexes of Divalent Samarium, Europium, and Ytterbium
Authors: Wolf Benjamin M. , Stuhl Christoph , Maichle‐Mössmer Cäcilia , Anwander Reiner
Published: August 2018

Discrete organoimide complexes of the divalent rare‐earth metals samarium, europium, and ytterbium are reported. Tandem salt metathesis‐protonolysis reactions using LnII bis(tetramethylaluminate) precursors [Ln(AlMe4)2]n and monopotassium salts of 2,6‐diisopropylaniline (H2NDipp) and triphenylsilylamine prove viable and efficient protocols. Depending on the ionic radius of the LnII metal centers and the steric demand of the imido carbon backbone, mono‐ and dilanthanide arrangements of general composition [(thf)xLn(NR)(AlMe3)]y (Ln=Sm, Eu, Yb; R=Dipp, SiPh3) are found in the solid state. Complex formation and stabilization is achieved by coordination of the Lewis acid AlMe3, which also prevents formation of higher aggregated species. The feasibility of redox chemistry is shown with the plumbocene derivative Cp*2Pb, providing access to the corresponding monomeric LnIII half‐sandwich complexes [Cp*Ln(NR)(AlMe3)(thf)2] (Ln=Sm, Yb).
Interconnected Porous Monolith Prepared via UiO‐66 Stabilized Pickering High Internal Phase Emulsion Template
Authors: Wang Jierui , Zhu He , Li Bo‐Geng , Zhu Shiping
Published: August 2018

High internal phase emulsion (HIPE) templating offers an efficient approach to prepare 3D hierarchical porous metal–organic framework (MOF)‐based monoliths. However, conventional poly‐Pickering HIPEs synthesized from MOF‐stabilized HIPEs have low permeability due to closed‐cell structures, thus limiting their applications. Herein, interconnected porous MOF monoliths, prepared by adding a small amount of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as co‐stabilizer into UiO‐66 stabilized Pickering HIPE templates are reported. The morphology of the porous monoliths was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The pore size could be well controlled by varying the PVA concentration. A unique morphology, formed by an ice template, was clearly seen on the cell wall. The pores were thus interconnected. The mass transfer performance of the monoliths having different cell structures was investigated by CO2 adsorption. The interconnected porous structure significantly accelerated the CO2 adsorption process, as well as enhancing the saturated adsorption capacity.
Eosin Y as a Redox Catalyst and Photosensitizer for Sequential Benzylic C−H Amination and Oxidation
Authors: Yan Dong‐Mei , Zhao Quan‐Qing , Rao Li , Chen Jia‐Rong , Xiao Wen‐Jing
Published: August 2018

A new synergistic multicatalytic activation mode of eosin Y has been discovered by exploiting the redox potential of its ground state and excited state. This catalytic strategy proves to be an enabling tool for visible‐light‐driven sequential benzylic C−H amination and oxidation of o‐benzyl‐N‐methoxyl‐benzamides when using Selectfluor as a hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) reagent and O2 as oxidant. Efficient synthesis of a range of diversely functionalized 3‐hydroxyisoindolinones can thus be achieved with good yields and selectivity at mild reaction conditions. Preliminary mechanistic studies and DFT calculations suggest that eosin Y works as a redox catalyst and photosensitizer.
Diverse Fates of β‐Silyl Radical under Manganese Catalysis: Hydrosilylation and Dehydrogenative Silylation of Alkenes
Authors: Yang Xiaoxu , Wang Congyang
Published: August 2018

Manganese‐catalyzed hydrosilylation of alkenes has been underdeveloped for a long time. Herein, we describe a general, chemo‐ and regio‐ selective hydrosilylation of alkenes by using the Mn(CO)5Br catalyst with ample substrate scopes. Meanwhile, dehydrogenative silylation of aryl olefins can be selectively achieved upon the catalysis of dinuclear Mn2(CO)10. Mechanistic experiments revealed diverse fates of the common intermediate β‐silyl radical, namely, hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) for the hydrosilylation and organometallic β‐H elimination for the dehydrogenative silylation of olefins.
Stabilization of mode in imbalanced operation of matrix converter by time‐delayed feedback control
Authors: Sánchez Manuel , Okuda Takafumi , Hikihara Takashi
Published: August 2018

The symmetry breaking of the loads of a matrix converter (MC) generated an imbalance that induced a quasiperiodic behavior at the input side of the MC. In addition, the load imbalance generated a negative‐sequence current at the input side. This paper adopts the time‐delayed feedback control (TDFC) to attenuate the quasiperiodic oscillation and the negative‐sequence component caused by the symmetry breaking. The results indicate that the attenuation of the quasiperiodic behavior directly leads to a decrease of the negative‐sequence current component. As a result, the TDFC improves the operation of the MC under unbalanced loads and part of the periodic symmetry is regained at the input side.
Hydrological influences on aquatic communities at the mesohabitat scale in high Andean streams of southern Ecuador
Authors: Vimos‐Lojano Diego J. , Martínez‐Capel Francisco , Hampel Henrietta , Vázquez Raúl F.
Published: August 2018

This study assessed the effects of hydrological events on aquatic communities at the mesohabitat scale (pool, run, and riffle) in the high Andean region. Four headwater sites located in the Zhurucay microcatchment (southern Ecuador), with elevations higher than 3,500 m, were selected and monitored considering in each site a 50‐m‐long reach and within each reach five cross sections. In each of these reaches, 19 sampling campaigns were conducted in the period December 2011–October 2013, collecting macroinvertebrates and physical characteristics. A total of 27 hydrological indices were calculated using the daily flow rate as input. Large peak flow, small peak flow, and low flow (LF) events were defined based on discharge thresholds. Multivariate statistics showed that 14 hydrological indices were significantly related to the aquatic community. Further, the study revealed that (a) peak events produced stronger effects on communities than LF events, (b) the observed effects of LF events were weaker than those encountered in other latitudes, and (c) local benthic communities have more resilience than similar communities studied in other latitudes.
Effectiveness evaluation and optimal design of nonlinear viscous dampers for inelastic structures under pulse‐type ground motions
Authors: Xie Yazhou , Zhang Jian , Xi Wang
Published: August 2018

This paper addresses the effectiveness and optimal design of nonlinear viscous dampers for inelastic structures. First, a nonlinear damping index is derived by using the dimensional analysis to estimate the damping induced by supplemental nonlinear dampers on inelastic single degree of freedom (SDOF) structures. Subsequently, the effects of the added nonlinear damping on the seismic responses of inelastic SDOF systems are analyzed in dimensionless forms when subject to various near‐fault ground motions. The structure‐to‐motion frequency ratio, the motion characteristics, and the structural nonlinearity are the main factors that will affect the damping effectiveness. Especially, it is shown that adding nonlinear viscous dampers will decrease displacement demands yet sometimes lead to amplified acceleration responses. Furthermore, an equivalency procedure is developed to match the inelastic multi‐degree of freedom (MDOF) structure that is equipped with multiple nonlinear viscous dampers to its corresponding SDOF system. Such equivalency justifies that the analysis results for the viscous damping efficiency on SDOF systems can be congruously applied to realistic multi‐story structures. Finally, the optimal designs of nonlinear dampers for MDOF inelastic structures are identified by implementing a hybrid genetic optimization framework along with a robust performance index.
Route of exposure has a major impact on uptake of silver nanoparticles in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Kleiven Merethe , Rosseland Bjørn Olav , Teien Hans-Christian , Joner Erik J. , Helen Oughton Deborah
Published: August 2018

The potential impact of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) on aquatic organisms is to a large extent determined by their bioavailability through different routes of exposure. In the present study juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) were exposed to different sources of radiolabeled Ag (radiolabeled 110mAg NPs and 110mAgNO3). After 48 h of waterborne exposure to 3 μg/L citrate stabilized 110mAg NPs or 110mAgNO3, or a dietary exposure to 0.6 mg Ag/kg fish (given as citrate stabilized or uncoated 110mAg NPs, or 110mAgNO3), Ag had been taken up in fish regardless of route of exposure or source of Ag (Ag NPs or AgNO3). Waterborne exposure led to high Ag concentrations on the gills, and dietary exposure led to high concentrations in the gastrointestinal tract. Silver distribution to the target organs was similar for both dietary and waterborne exposure, with the liver as the main target organ. The accumulation level of Ag was 2 to 3 times higher for AgNO3 than for Ag NPs when exposure was through water, whereas no significant differences were seen after dietary exposure. The transfer (Bq/g liver/g food or water) from exposure through water was 4 orders of magnitude higher than from feed using the smallest, citrate-stabilized Ag NPs (4 nm). The smallest NPs had a 5 times higher bioavailability in food compared with the larger and uncoated Ag NPs (20 nm). Despite the relatively low transfer of Ag from diet to fish, the short lifetime of Ag NPs in water and their transfer to sediment, feed, or sediment-dwelling food sources such as larvae and worms could make diet a significant long-term exposure route. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:2895–2903. © 2018 SETAC.
Preoperative diagnosis of clear cell sarcoma of the kidney by detection of BCOR internal tandem duplication in circulating tumor DNA
Authors: Ueno‐Yokohata Hitomi , Okita Hajime , Nakasato Keiko , Hishiki Tomoro , Shirai Ryota , Tsujimoto Shinichi , Osumi Tomoo , Yoshimura Satoshi , Yamada Yuji , Shioda Yoko , Kiyotani Chikako , Terashima Keita , Miyazaki Osamu , Matsumoto Kimikazu , Kiyokawa Nobutaka , Yoshioka Takako , Kato Motohiro
Published: August 2018

Clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK) is the second most common renal malignancy in children. The prognosis is poorer in CCSK than in Wilms’ tumor, and multimodal treatment including surgery, intensive chemotherapy, and radiation is required to improve the outcome for children with CCSK. Histological evaluation is required for the diagnosis. However, biopsies of tumors to obtain diagnostic specimens are not routinely performed because of the risk of spreading tumor cells during the procedure. Recently, internal tandem duplication (ITD) of BCOR has been recognized as a genetic hallmark of CCSK. We herein established a novel BCOR‐ITD‐specific polymerase chain reaction method with well‐designed primers, and then performed a liquid biopsy for cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) obtained from plasma of three children with nonmetastatic renal tumors (stage II) and from one control. BCOR‐ITD was positively detected in the cfDNA of two cases, both of which were later diagnosed as CCSK based on histological feature of the resected tumor specimen, while it was not detected for a normal control and a patient diagnosed with Wilms’ tumor. Our study is the first one of preoperative circulating tumor DNA assay in pediatric renal tumors. The liquid biopsy method enables less invasive, preoperative diagnosis of CCSK with no risk of tumor spillage, which can avoid iatrogenic upstaging.
Affordable care encourages healthy living: Theory and evidence from China's new cooperative medical scheme
Authors: Yu Ning Neil , Zhu Xi
Published: August 2018

In developing a theory of medical insurance and health behavior with bequest motive, we discover that whether ex ante moral hazard or the opposite occurs hinges upon the differential effects of health behavior on morbidity and mortality. Providing insurance can encourage healthy living by making longevity more affordable. We test the theory utilizing a unique experiment of China introducing the new cooperative medical scheme, unique in its long‐term credibility necessary for our proposed channel. This scheme reduced cigarette use by around 9%. Further empirical analysis failed to falsify our theory or the alternative mechanism of health insurance reducing stress and thus the demand for cigarettes and hard liquor. Both newly proposed mechanisms alleviate concerns over ex ante moral hazard caused by providing affordable care for the poor.
Identification of pathway‐based recurrence‐associated signatures in optimally debulked patients with serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Deng Kui , Zhang Fan , Song Wei , Zhao Weiwei , Rong Zhiwei , Cai Yuqing , Xu Huan , Lu Mingliang , Wang Wenjie , Li Ang , Hou Yan , Li Zhenzi , Li Kang
Published: August 2018

Serous ovarian cancer (SOC) is the most common form of the histological subtype of epithelial ovarian cancer, with the worst clinical outcome. Despite improvements in surgery and chemotherapy, most patients with SOC experience recurrence within 12‐18 months of first‐line treatment. Current studies are unable to robustly predict the recurrence of SOC, and more accurate predictive models are urgently required. We have, therefore, developed a novel pathway‐structured model to predict the recurrence of SOC. We trained the model on a set of 333 patients and validated it in 3 diversified validation datasets of 403 patients. Genes significantly associated with recurrence within each pathway were identified using a Cox proportional hazards model based on LASSO estimation in the training dataset. Next, a pathway‐structured scoring matrix was obtained after computation of the prognostic score for each pathway by fitting to the Cox proportional hazards model. With the pathway‐structure scoring matrix as an input, the pathway‐based recurrent signatures were identified using the Cox proportional hazards model based on LASSO estimation and the significant pathway‐based signatures were externally validated in 3 independent datasets. Meanwhile, our pathway‐structured model was compared with a commonly used gene‐based model. Our results revealed that our 12 pathway‐based signatures successfully predicted the recurrence of SOC with high accuracy in the training dataset and in the 3 validation datasets. Moreover, our pathway‐structured model was superior to the gene‐based model in 4 datasets. The pathways selected in our study will provide new insights into the pathogenesis and clinical treatments of SOC.