bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, antiviral and antibacterial activities and action mechanism of penta-1,4-dien-3-one oxime ether derivatives containing a quinoxaline moiety
Authors: Xia Rongjiao , Guo Tao , Chen Mei , Su Shijun , He Jun , Tang Xu , Jiang Shichun , Xue Wei
Published: October 2019

A series of penta-1,4-dien-3-one oxime ether derivatives containing a quinoxaline moiety were synthesized, and their bioactivities and action mechanism were evaluated.
CuO nanoparticle penetration through intact and damaged human skin
Authors: Zanoni Ilaria , Crosera Matteo , Ortelli Simona , Blosi Magda , Adami Gianpiero , Larese Filon Francesca , Costa Anna Luisa
Published: October 2019

Trans-dermal in vitro study of CuO nanoparticles in contact with intact and damaged human skin using a Franz cell model.
Facile preparation and characterization of a nanofiber-coated textile with durable and rechargeable antibacterial activity
Authors: Huang Yu , Yuan Qinwen , Lu Zhentan , Wang Wenwen , Liu Ke , Chen Yuanli , Wang Xiaojun , Wang Dong , Qiu Yiming
Published: October 2019

A facile and green method was used to prepare a durable and rechargeable antibacterial cotton textile.
A FRET-based two-photon probe for in vivo tracking of pH during a traumatic brain injury process
Authors: Zhai Baoping , Zhai Shuyang , Hao Ruilin , Xu Jianjun , Liu Zhihong
Published: October 2019

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a cause of neurodegenerative diseases accompanied by intracellular pH decrease. Herein, a FRET-based ratiometric two-photon fluorescent pH probe is designed to monitor pH change and understand TBI process.
Alkaline earth ion exchange study of pure silica LTA zeolites using periodic first-principles calculations
Authors: Kocevski Vancho , Hu Shenyang Y. , Besmann Theodore M.
Published: October 2019

The Linde Type A (LTA) zeolite capability to exchange alkaline earth ions is analyzed using DFT calculations, considering the systems to be in water and vacuum, investigating the LTA's potential as a material for radioactive decontamination processes.
One-pot achievement of MnO2/Fe2O3 nanocomposites for the oxygen reduction reaction with enhanced catalytic activity
Authors: Jiang Lingling , Zhang Guodong , Li Dehua , Liu Chengzhan , Xing Shuangxi
Published: October 2019

MnO2/Fe2O3 nanocomposites were achieved in one-pot followed by high-temperature treatment, which presented excellent electrocatalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction.
A TiO2–SnS2 nanocomposite as a novel matrix for the development of an enzymatic electrochemical glucose biosensor
Authors: Yao Pei , Yu Suhua , Shen Huifang , Yang Juan , Min Lingfeng , Yang Zhanjun , Zhu Xiashi
Published: October 2019

A TiO2–SnS2 nanocomposite was prepared and for the first time used to construct a novel electrochemical enzymatic glucose biosensor based on the direct electrochemistry of glucose oxidase (GOx).
Utilization of a magnetic field-driven microscopic motion for piezoelectric energy harvesting
Authors: Kim Sanggon , Ico Gerardo , Bai Yaocai , Yang Steve , Lee Jung-Ho , Yin Yadong , Myung Nosang V. , Nam Jin
Published: October 2019

Magneto–mechano–electrical energy conversion in poly(vinylidenefluoride-trifluoroethylene) piezoelectric nanofibers integrated with magnetic nanoparticles in a particle-shape dependent manner.
High-throughput single nanoparticle detection using a feed-through channel-integrated nanopore
Authors: Tsutsui Makusu , Yamazaki Tomoko , Tatematsu Kenji , Yokota Kazumichi , Esaki Yuko , Kubo Yukari , Deguchi Hiroko , Arima Akihide , Kuroda Shun'ichi , Kawai Tomoji
Published: October 2019

Feeding viral solution to a solid-state nanopore through a controlled fluid-flow enables high-throughput single-virus detection.
Tunable electronic properties by ligand coverage control in PbS nanocrystal assemblies
Authors: Liu Liming , Bisri Satria Zulkarnaen , Ishida Yasuhiro , Aida Takuzo , Iwasa Yoshihiro
Published: October 2019

Precise ligand coverage control of PbS nanocrystals has been investigated to tune both their assembly structures and electronic properties.
Predicting lanthanide boride inverse sandwich tubular molecular rotors with the smallest core–shell structure
Authors: Lu Xiao-Qin , Chen Qiang , Tian Xin-Xin , Mu Yue-Wen , Lu Hai-Gang , Li Si-Dian
Published: October 2019

Extensive first-principles theory calculations predict the possibility of bi-decker inverse sandwich complexes La2[B18], La2[B18]2−, and La2[B2@B18], with the B2-centered La2[B2@B18] as a tubular molecular rotor possessing the smallest core–shell structure.
Self-healing and recyclable photonic elastomers based on a water soluble supramolecular polymer
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Zhou Binghua , Lyu Quanqian , Jia Lizhen , Tan Haiying , Xie Zhanjun , Xiong Bijin , Xue Zhigang , Zhang Lianbin , Zhu Jintao
Published: October 2019

Photonic elastomers with angle-independent structural colors, self-healing, and recycling properties are prepared by incorporating isotropically arranged SiO2 nanoparticles into a water-soluble ureidopyrimidinone (UPy) cross-linked poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) polymer matrix.
Synthesis and thermodynamic investigation of MnO nanoparticle anchored N-doped porous carbon as the anode for Li-ion and Na-ion batteries
Authors: Sun Ya-Nan , Yang Liangtao , Sui Zhu-Yin , Zhao Li , Goktas Mustafa , Zhou Hang-Yu , Xiao Pei-Wen , Adelhelm Philipp , Han Bao-Hang
Published: October 2019

The electrochemical and thermodynamic properties of MnO nanoparticle anchored N-doped porous carbon as the anode for Li-ion and Na-ion batteries are investigated.
Enhanced photocatalytic water splitting of a SILAR deposited α-Fe2O3 film on TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Pourbakhsh Zahra-Sadat , Mohammadi Kyana , Moshaii Ahmad , Azimzadehirani Maryam , Hosseinmardi Amir
Published: October 2019

Optimization of photoelectrochemical water splitting by a composite of SILAR-deposited α-Fe2O3 thin film on a substrate of TiO2 nanoparticles.
A noble bimetal oxysulfide CuVOS catalyst for highly efficient catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol and organic dyes
Authors: Sun Huizhi , Zelekew Osman Ahmed , Chen Xiaoyun , Guo Yuanbo , Kuo Dong-Hau , Lu Qingxin , Lin Jinguo
Published: October 2019

A novel CuVOS catalyst was successfully synthesized by a facile method. The CuVOS with optimum amount of N2H4 had higher catalytic activity.
Molecular dynamics simulations of Y(iii) coordination and hydration properties
Authors: Zhang Xiaolin , Niu Fei , Liu Donghui , Yang Shimin , Yang Youming , Tong Zhifang
Published: October 2019

Based on MD results, DFT was used to geometrically optimize and calculate the UV spectrum of Y(iii) complex ions. Data validation was further performed using UV-vis experiments to reveal Y(iii) coordination and hydration properties.
Dispersed GaOOH rods loaded on the surface of ZnBiNbO5particles with enhanced photocatalytic activity toward enrofloxacin
Authors: Huang Panqi , Luan Jingfei
Published: October 2019

A GaOOH/ZnBiNbO5composite was constructed by loading dispersed GaOOH rods on the surface of ZnBiNbO5particles and characterizations, including SEM-EDS, XRD, FT-IR spectroscopy, XPS, and UV-Vis DRS were performed.
Optimization of the thermoelectric performance of layer-by-layer structured copper-phthalocyanine (CuPc) thin films doped with hexacyano-trimethylene-cyclopropane (CN6-CP)
Authors: Xing Weilong , Chen Jie , Liang Yingying , Zou Ye , Sun Yimeng , Xu Wei , Zhu Daoben
Published: October 2019

The alternately deposited multilayer structure of a small molecular semiconductor and dopant molecules offers a general strategy for investigating their TE performance.
Water-soluble lanthanide coordination polymers particles with white-light emission and color tuning
Authors: Fan Kaiqi , Wang Xiaobo , Ma Yongpeng , Li Yu , Han Guanglu , Yin Zhigang , Song Jian
Published: October 2019

Water-soluble polymer particles (PPs) with strong fluorescence emission were prepared from hyperbranched poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) and terpyridine-bearing aldehyde (TPy) via Schiff base reaction and self-assembly in aqueous phase.
Sulfation effect of Ce/TiO2 catalyst for the selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3: mechanism and kinetic studies
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Liu Guofu , Jiang Jie , Tan Yuchen , Wang Qi , Gong Chenghong , Shen Dekui , Wu Chunfei
Published: October 2019

After sulfation treatment, low-temperature SCR activity is severely inhibited due to the much lower reaction rate of E–R reaction.
An efficient Au catalyst supported on hollow carbon spheres for acetylene hydrochlorination
Authors: Kang Lihua , Zhu Mingyuan
Published: October 2019

Mesoporous hollow carbon spheres (HCS) were prepared and applied as the support of Au catalyst for acetylene hydrochlorination. Au/HCS exhibited excellent stability for acetylene hydrochlorination.
BrCl+ elimination from Coulomb explosion of 1,2-bromochloroethane induced by intense femtosecond laser fields
Authors: Wu Hua , Xue Yuanxin , Wen Junqing , Wang Hui , Bai Lihua , He Wanlin , Sun Ruijuan , Zheng Wenli
Published: October 2019

Concerted elimination of the molecular ion BrCl+ from Coulomb explosion of 1,2-bromochloroethane was studied theoretically and experimentally.
Computationally aided design of a high-performance organic semiconductor: the development of a universal crystal engineering core
Authors: Petty Anthony J. , Ai Qianxiang , Sorli Jeni C. , Haneef Hamna F. , Purdum Geoffrey E. , Boehm Alex , Granger Devin B. , Gu Kaichen , Rubinger Carla Patricia Lacerda , Parkin Sean R. , Graham Kenneth R. , Jurchescu Oana D. , Loo Yueh-Lin , Risko Chad , Anthony John E.
Published: October 2019

Silylethyne-functionalized benzodithiophene serves as a universal crystal engineering core to yield stable, soluble, π-stacked arrays of aromatic chromophores.
Photoactivity and optical applications of organic materials containing selenium and tellurium
Authors: Hoover Gabrielle C. , Seferos Dwight S.
Published: October 2019

Incorporating selenium or tellurium into photoactive species imparts new photophysical properties that may be exploited in materials applications.
Ratiometric fluorescence imaging of Golgi H2O2 reveals a correlation between Golgi oxidative stress and hypertension
Authors: Wang Hui , He Zixu , Yang Yuyun , Zhang Jiao , Zhang Wei , Zhang Wen , Li Ping , Tang Bo
Published: October 2019

Based on a novel Golgi-targeting phenylsulfonamide group, a two-photon (TP) fluorescent probe, Np-Golgi, was developed for in situ H2O2 ratiometric imaging in living systems.
The curious case of the conflicting roles of hydrogen in global energy scenarios
Authors: Quarton Christopher J. , Tlili Olfa , Welder Lara , Mansilla Christine , Blanco Herib , Heinrichs Heidi , Leaver Jonathan , Samsatli Nouri J. , Lucchese Paul , Robinius Martin , Samsatli Sheila
Published: October 2019

It is puzzling that hydrogen is not prominent in global energy scenarios: this perspective investigates why and what can be done.
Insight into the nanostructure of anisotropic cellulose aerogels upon compression
Authors: Rennhofer Harald , Plappert Sven F. , Lichtenegger Helga C. , Bernstorff Sigrid , Fitzka Michael , Nedelec Jean-Marie , Liebner Falk W.
Published: October 2019

In this article we report on the nanostructural changes of a cellulose II aerogel network during compressive strain of up to 80%, which are investigated by in situ small angle X-ray scattering and linked to the corresponding stress–strain curves.
Hydrogelation with a water-insoluble organogelator – surfactant mediated gelation (SMG)
Authors: Aramaki Kenji , Koitani Sachi , Takimoto Eriko , Kondo Masashi , Stubenrauch Cosima
Published: October 2019

The “surfactant-mediated gelation” (SMG) allow hydrogelation by organogelator that solubilized in surfactant micelles. We demonstrated gelation from CTAB micellar and wormlike micellar solutions.
Annihilation dynamics of topological defects induced by microparticles in nematic liquid crystals
Authors: Shen Yuan , Dierking Ingo
Published: October 2019

The annihilation dynamics of liquid crystal topological defects with micro-particles is governed by a complex interplay between elastic attraction, backflow, viscous drag forces, confinement and applied electric field conditions.
A sulfur-tolerant cathode catalyst fabricated with in situ exsolved CoNi alloy nanoparticles anchored on a Ruddlesden–Popper support for CO2 electrolysis
Authors: Park Seongmin , Kim Yoongon , Noh Yuseong , Kim Taewook , Han Hyunsu , Yoon Wongeun , Choi Junil , Yi Sang-Ho , Lee Woon-Jae , Kim Won Bae
Published: October 2019

The schematic of CO2 electrolysis to produce CO in an SOEC under the conditions of CO2 gas containing H2S.
Ultra-small metal nanoparticles supported on carbon nanotubes through surface chelation and hydrogen plasma reduction for methanol electro-oxidation
Authors: Morales-Lara Francisco , Abdelkader-Fernández Víctor K. , Melguizo Manuel , Turco Antonio , Mazzotta Elisabetta , Domingo-García María , López-Garzón F. Javier , Pérez-Mendoza Manuel
Published: October 2019

This paper reports a new method to obtain ultra-small Pd and Pt nanoparticles (0.5–1 nm) supported on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs).
Substoichiometric ultrathin zirconia films cause strong metal–support interaction
Authors: Lackner Peter , Choi Joong Il Jake , Diebold Ulrike , Schmid Michael
Published: October 2019

ZrO2/metal inverse model catalysts exhibit the strong metal–support interaction (SMSI) effect. Upon annealing under reducing conditions, an oxygen-deficient, ultrathin ZrO≈1.5 film covers the metal. Nevertheless, Zr retains its 4+ charge state.
The general construction of asymmetric bowl-like hollow nanostructures by grafting carbon-sheathed ultrasmall iron-based compounds onto carbon surfaces for use as superior anodes for sodium-ion hybrid capacitors
Authors: Gao Jingyu , Li Yapeng , Peng Bo , Wang Gongrui , Zhang Genqiang
Published: October 2019

A general strategy has been developed for fabricating bowl-like hollow particles with dual-carbon protection, enabling superior sodium ion storage.
Triphenylpyrazine: methyl substitution to achieve deep blue AIE emitters
Authors: Wu Haozhong , Zeng Jiajie , Xu Zeng , Zhang Bing , Zhang Han , Pan Yuyu , Wang Zhiming , Ma Dongge , Qin Anjun , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: October 2019

Based on our deep comprehension of the unique excited state decay process of tetraphenylpyrazine derivatives, triphenylpyrazine-3-carbazole (TrPP-3C) was designed by replacing the phenyl group with a methyl group at the 3-position of pyrazine.
Luminescence color tuning and energy transfer properties in (Sr,Ba)2LaGaO5:Bi3+,Eu3+solid solution phosphors: realization of single-phased white emission for WLEDs
Authors: Liu Dongjie , Dang Peipei , Yun Xiaohan , Li Guogang , Lian Hongzhou , Lin Jun
Published: October 2019

Controllable emission tuning from bluish-green to red was achieved by Ba2+/Sr2+substitution and Bi3+→ Eu3+energy transfer.
Degree of Hearing Loss Affects Bilateral Hearing Aid Benefits in Ecologically Relevant Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Ricketts Todd A. , Picou Erin M. , Shehorn James , Dittberner Andrew B.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Previous evidence supports benefits of bilateral hearing aids, relative to unilateral hearing aid use, in laboratory environments using audio-only (AO) stimuli and relatively simple tasks. The purpose of this study was to evaluate bilateral hearing aid benefits in ecologically relevant laboratory settings, with and without visual cues. In addition, we evaluated the relationship between bilateral benefit and clinically viable predictive variables.

Method

Participants included 32 adult listeners with hearing loss ranging from mild–moderate to severe–profound. Test conditions varied by hearing aid fitting type (unilateral, bilateral) and modality (AO, audiovisual). We tested participants in complex environments that evaluated the following domains: sentence recognition, word recognition, behavioral listening effort, gross localization, and subjective ratings of spatialization. Signal-to-noise ratio was adjusted to provide similar unilateral speech recognition performance in both modalities and across procedures.

Results

Significant and similar bilateral benefits were measured for both modalities on all tasks except listening effort, where bilateral benefits were not identified in either modality. Predictive variables were related to bilateral benefits in some conditions. With audiovisual stimuli, increasing hearing loss, unaided speech recognition in noise, and unaided subjective spatial ability were significantly correlated with increased benefits for many outcomes. With AO stimuli, these same predictive variables were not significantly correlated with outcomes. No predictive variables were correlated with bilateral benefits for sentence recognition in either modality.

Conclusions

Hearing aid users can expect significant bilateral hearing aid advantages for ecologically relevant, complex laboratory tests. Although future confirmatory work is necessary, these data indicate the presence of vision strengthens the relationship between bilateral benefits and degree of hearing loss.
Moving From Interprofessional Education Toward Interprofessional Practice: Bridging the Translation Gap
Authors: Musaji Imran , Self Trisha , Marble-Flint Karissa , Kanade Ashwini
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this article was to propose the use of a translational model as a tool for identifying limitations of current interprofessional education (IPE) research. Translational models allow researchers to clearly define next-step research needed to translate IPE to interprofessional practice (IPP).

Method

Key principles, goals, and limitations of current IPE research are reviewed. A popular IPE evaluation model is examined through the lens of implementation research. The authors propose a new translational model that more clearly illustrates translational gaps that can be used to direct future research. Next steps for translating IPE to IPP are discussed.

Conclusion

Comprehensive reviews of the literature show that the implementation strategies adopted to date have fostered improved buy-in from key stakeholders, as evidenced by improved attitudes and perceptions toward interprofessional collaboration/practice. However, there is little evidence regarding successful implementation outcomes, such as changed clinician behaviors, changed organizational practices, or improved patient outcomes. The authors propose the use of an IPE to IPP translational model to facilitate clear identification of research gaps and to better identify future research targets.
Efficient move blocking strategy for multiple shooting‐based non‐linear model predictive control
Authors: Chen Yutao , Scarabottolo Nicoló , Bruschetta Mattia , Beghi Alessandro
Published: October 2019

Move blocking (MB) is a widely used strategy to reduce the degrees of freedom (DoFs) of the optimal control problem (OCP) arising in receding horizon control. The size of the OCP is reduced by forcing the input variables to be constant over multiple discretisation steps. In this study, the authors focus on developing computationally efficient MB schemes for multiple shooting‐based non‐linear model predictive control (NMPC). The DoFs of the OCP is reduced by introducing MB in the shooting step, resulting in a smaller but sparse OCP. Therefore, the discretisation accuracy and level of sparsity are maintained. A condensing algorithm that exploits the sparsity structure of the OCP is proposed, that allows to reduce the computation complexity of condensing from quadratic to linear in the number of discretisation nodes. As a result, active‐set methods with warm‐start strategy can be efficiently employed, thus allowing the use of a longer prediction horizon. A detailed comparison between the proposed scheme and the non‐uniform grid NMPC is given. Effectiveness of the algorithm in reducing computational burden while maintaining optimisation accuracy and constraints fulfilment is shown by means of simulations with two different problems.
Observer‐based finite‐time asynchronous control for a class of hidden Markov jumping systems with conic‐type non‐linearities
Authors: Cheng Peng , He Shuping
Published: October 2019

An observer‐based finite‐time asynchronous control law is designed for a class of hidden Markov jumping systems with non‐linearities and external disturbances. The non‐linearities satisfy the conic‐type constraint condition that lies in a known hypersphere with an uncertain centre. The non‐synchronisation phenomenon between the system modes and observer/controller modes is modelled by a hidden Markov model. By means of the proper stochastic Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional method, a sufficient condition is obtained to guarantee the stochastic finite‐time boundedness of the corresponding argument error dynamic systems with a satisfied disturbance rejection level. Finally, the feasibility and validity of the main results is illustrated through a pratical example related to the DC motor.
Real‐time least‐squares ensemble visual tracking
Authors: Zhu Ridong , Yang Xiaoyuan , Wang Jingkai , Li Zhengze
Published: October 2019

In this study, the authors present a novel ensemble tracking system by formulating the tracking task in terms of a linear regression which is a least‐squares problem. A set of weak classifiers are trained using least squares which are solved efficiently using the Moore–Penrose inverse. Then, these weak classifiers are combined into a strong classifier using bagging. The strong classifier is used to recognise the target and locate its position, which is obtained efficiently in the Fourier domain. For obtaining a good ensemble, a novel sampling strategy is proposed to train accurate and diverse weak classifiers. By exploiting historical targets to monitor the training process, pose change and occlusion are well‐handled. The proposed method is extensively evaluated using a variety of evaluation protocols on the recent standard datasets including OTB50, OTB100 and VOT2016. Experimental results show that the proposed methodology performs favourably against state‐of‐the‐art methods in terms of efficiency, accuracy and robustness.
Edge‐aware image filtering using a structure‐guided CNN
Authors: Kim Sijung , Song Changho , Jang Jinbeum , Paik Joonki
Published: October 2019

Image filtering is a fundamental preprocessing step for accurate, robust computer vision applications such as image segmentation, object classification, and reconstruction. However, many convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based methods tend to lose significant edge information in the output layer, and generate undesired artefacts in the feature extraction layers. This study presents a deep CNN model for edge‐aware image filtering. The proposed network model consists of three sub‐networks: (i) feature extraction, (ii) convolution artefact removal, and (iii) structure extraction networks. The proposed network model has an end‐to‐end trainable architecture that does not need any post‐processing steps. Especially, the structure extraction network can successfully preserve significant edges. The proposed filter outperforms state‐of‐the‐art denoising filters in terms of both objective and subjective measures, and can be used for various image enhancement and restoration problems such as edge‐preserving smoothing, image denoising, deblurring, and deblocking.
New adaptive histogram equalisation heuristic approach for contrast enhancement
Authors: Kansal Shubhi , Tripathi Rajiv Kumar
Published: October 2019

Contrast enhancement of an image can be performed by using a simple histogram equalisation (HE) technique. However, there are some drawbacks of HE like immense brightness change, artificial effects, over‐enhancement, which make it unsuitable to be used in many applications. To resolve these issues a new adaptive heuristic HE approach is proposed in this study. First, probability distribution function (PDF) of the image is calculated. Second, an adaptive parameter is calculated based on the mean and maximum values of that PDF. Thereafter, PDF and cumulative distribution function (CDF) are modified by applying a threshold limit to that adaptive parameter. Finally, another adaptive parameter is finding out by using modified CDF and a new CDF is obtained by using this second adaptive parameter. Traditional HE is then applied with the new CDF to getting the enhanced image. The visual and quantitative results of the proposed method outperform all other state‐of‐the‐art papers and works well both for low and bright contrast images simultaneously. After rigorous experiment, it is concluded that the authors’ method enhances the image contrast very well with no over‐enhancement or artificial effects in the images and also preserves the original characteristics of the input images.
Automatic rectification of warped Bangla document images
Authors: Garai Arpan , Biswas Samit , Mandal Sekhar , Chaudhuri Bidyut B.
Published: October 2019

In this study, a robust algorithm for dewarping of camera‐captured document images, mainly in Bangla script, is proposed. The algorithm can handle various types of warped document images and they are generated due to different types of document surfaces (convex, concave or multi‐folded). The proposed algorithm is independent of font type, font size, font style and camera view angle. After initial preprocessing, the method first demarcates the text lines present in the document image. Then, the headline (shirorekha) position of each text line is estimated. Based on the headline position and shape, each text line is dewarped. If the document is highly warped, distorted text (e.g. thinner and shorter characters) is generated after dewarping. Special care has been taken to minimise this distortion based on most undistorted character information. Exhaustive testing shows the robustness and shape improvement of the proposed algorithm. Finally, for shape quality evaluation, some new measures are defined.
HF radar signatures of ship and submarine wakes
Authors: Anderson Stuart J.
Published: October 2019

Radars operating in the HF band have been widely used to detect and track surface ships from their skin echoes; indeed, in many cases this has been the primary mission of the radar. Yet vessels moving on and through the ocean create a family of disturbances collectively referred to as the wake, though a number of different mechanisms and phenomena are involved. It is therefore of interest to explore the possibility of detecting the wake echo and exploiting it as far as possible. In this study, the author presents an analysis of this problem and shows that there is indeed a characteristic signature associated with the Kelvin wake and this contains retrievable information relevant to target discrimination and classification.
GPU parallel implementation and optimisation of SAR target recognition method
Authors: Quan H. , Cui Z. , Wang R. , Cao Zongjie
Published: October 2019

The SAR target recognition based on optimised GPU parallel algorithm is proposed here. In general, with the rapid increment of the data dimension and the amount of data of SAR images, the traditional CPU‐based target recognition algorithm cannot meet the requirements of real‐time processing. Here, the target recognition algorithm which includes feature extraction and the classification is investigated and then parallel decomposed and optimised. First, the algorithms are investigated and parallel decomposed, including the principal component analysis, linear discriminant analysis, and non‐negative matrix factorisation feature extraction technologies, and the support vector machines classifier. Then, the three feature extraction methods and sequential minimal optimisation algorithm are realised. Finally, the causes of compute unified device architecture programme running speed in target recognition algorithm are deeply analysed, and the algorithm is optimised from three aspects: communication, access, and instruction flow. According to the experiments, the optimised GPU‐based parallel implementation of the target recognition algorithm has been optimised to obtain about 25–30 times performance upgrade
Spread spectrum algorithm resistance to wideband non‐stationary interference
Authors: Zhang Chenlu , Dang Hua , Xiong Yifeng , Yan Tianqi
Published: October 2019

This study proposes a multi‐ary modulation chirp spread spectrum algorithm specific for the unmanned aerial vehicles field. It further introduces the corresponding fractional Fourier transform de‐spreading algorithm and the hardware implementation of the software radio‐based communication system to validate the algorithm's better anti‐interference performance in the wide‐band non‐stationary interference environment.
Shock-accelerated cosmic rays and streaming instability in the adaptive mesh refinement code Ramses
Authors: Dubois Yohan , Commerçon Benoît , Marcowith Alexandre , Brahimi Loann
Published: October 2019

Cosmic rays (CRs) are thought to play a dynamically important role in several key aspects of galaxy evolution, including the structure of the interstellar medium, the formation of galactic winds, and the non-thermal pressure support of halos. We introduce a numerical model solving for the CR streaming instability and acceleration of CRs at shocks with a fluid approach in the adaptive mesh refinement code RAMSES. CR streaming is solved with a diffusion approach and its anisotropic nature is naturally captured. We introduce a shock finder for the RAMSES code that automatically detects shock discontinuities in the flow. Shocks are the loci for CR injection, and their efficiency of CR acceleration is made dependent on the upstream magnetic obliquity according to the diffuse shock acceleration mechanism. We show that the shock finder accurately captures shock locations and estimates the shock Mach number for several problems. The obliquity-dependent injection of CRs in the Sedov solution leads to situations where the supernova bubble exhibits large polar caps (homogeneous background magnetic field), or a patchy structure of the CR distribution (inhomogeneous background magnetic field). Finally, we combine both accelerated CRs with streaming in a simple turbulent interstellar medium box, and show that the presence of CRs significantly modifies the structure of the gas.
Admissible equations of state for immiscible and miscible mixtures
Authors: Faccanoni Gloria , Mathis Hélène
Published: October 2019

This paper addresses the construction of admissible Equations of State (EoS) for compressible two-phase ows. We investigate two approaches. In the first one, the mixture is treated as a single uid with a complex thermodynamic. Most of the time the available EoS are determined experimentally and are often incomplete EoS, i.e. we know only the pressure as a function of the volume and the temperature. We present here a general framework to compute a complete EoS based on such an incomplete EoS. In the second approach, each phase is depicted by its own EoS. Following the Gibbs formalism, the mixture entropy is the sum of the phasic entropies which achieves its maximum at equilibrium. Depending on the miscibility of the mixture, one gets different geometrical properties on the resulting mixture entropy. Eventually we address the coupling of mixture EoS with the dynamic of the uid. Homogeneous Equilibrium and Relaxation Models (HEM and HRM) are introduced for an immiscible and a miscible two-phase mixture. Hyperbolicity is ensured taking advantage of the concavity properties of the mixture entropies.
Vapour-liquid phase transition and metastability
Authors: Ghazi Hala , James Francois , Mathis Hélène
Published: October 2019

The paper deals with the modelling of the relaxation processes towards thermodynamic equilibrium in a liquid-vapour isothermal mixture. Focusing on the van der Waals equation of state, we construct a constrained optimization problem using Gibbs' formalism and characterize all possible equilibria: coexistence states, pure phases and metastable states. Coupling with time evolution, we develop a dynamical system whose equilibria coincide with the minimizers of the optimization problem. Eventually we consider the coupling with hydrodynamics and use the dynamical system as a relaxation source terms in an Euler-type system. Numerical results illustrate the ability of the whole model to depict coexistence and metastable states as well.
Closure conditions for a one temperature non-equilibrium multi-component model of baer-nunziato type
Authors: Hantke M. , Müller S.
Published: October 2019

A class of non-equilibrium models for compressible multi-component uids is investigated. These models are subject to the choice of interfacial pressures and interfacial velocity as well as relaxation terms for velocity, pressure and chemical potentials. Sufficient conditions are derived for these quantities that ensure meaningful physical properties such as a non-negative entropy production and thermodynamical stability as well as mathematical properties such as hyperbolicity. For the relaxation of chemical potentials a three-component model gas-water-vapor is considered.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty: a modified technique with greater curvature compression sutures
Authors: Glaysher Michael A. , Moekotte Alma L. , Kelly Jamie
Published: October 2019

Background Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is rapidly becoming established as a safe and effective means of achieving substantial weight loss via the transoral route. New ESG suture patterns are emerging. Our aim was to investigate whether superior weight loss outcomes can be achieved by using a unique combination of longitudinal compression sutures and “U”-shaped sutures.

Methods This is a retrospective review of prospectively collected data of all patients undergoing ESG by a single operator in a single UK center.

Results Between January 2016 and December 2017, 32 patients (23 female) underwent ESG; n = 9 cases were completed utilizing a commonly used triangular suture pattern (“no longitudinal compression”) and n = 23 cases were completed using our unique “longitudinal compression” suture pattern. In the no compression and compression groups, the mean ages were 45 ± 12 years and 43 ± 10 years, the median baseline weights were 113.6 kg (range 82.0 – 156.4) and 107 kg (range 74.0 – 136.0), and the median baseline body mass indexes (BMIs) were 35.9 kg/m2 (range 30.9 – 43.8) and 36.5 kg/m2 (range 29.8 – 42.9), respectively. After 6 months, body weight had decreased by 21.1 kg (range, 12.2 – 34.0) in the compression group (n = 7) versus 10.8 kg (range, 7.0 – 25.8) in the no compression group (n = 5) (P = 0.042). Correspondingly, BMI decreased by 7.8 kg/m2 (range, 4.9 – 11.2) and 4.1 kg/m2 (range, 2.6 – 7.2) in each group, respectively (P = 0.019). Total body weight loss (%TBWL) was greater in the compression group at 19.5 % (range, 12.9 – 30.4 %) compared to 13.2 % (range, 6.2 – 17.1 %) in the non-compression group (P = 0.042). No significant adverse events were reported in this series.

Conclusion The technique of ESG is evolving and outcomes from endoscopic bariatric therapies continue to improve. We provide preliminary evidence of superior weight loss achieved through a modified gastroplasty suture pattern.
Third Trimester Umbilical Artery Doppler in Low-Risk Pregnancies and its Correlation to Estimated Fetal Weight and Birthweight
Authors: Sirico Angelo , Diemert Anke , Glosemeyer Peter , Hecher Kurt
Published: October 2019

Purpose This study investigated the correlation between the umbilical artery (UA) pulsatility index (PI) and the estimated fetal weight percentile and birthweight (BW) percentile, respectively.

Materials and Methods We included low-risk pregnancies, in which UA Doppler investigations after 28 weeks were performed. Cases were allocated according to BW percentiles: small for gestational age (SGA) with BW < 10th percentile; appropriate for gestational age (AGA) and large for gestational age (LGA) with BW > 90th percentile. We analyzed differences in the mean UA-PI and UA-PI z-score for gestational age according to the three groups. Linear regression was performed to evaluate any relationship between Doppler indices and BW percentiles. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the independent association of UA-PI with LGA babies. In a second step, we considered data on estimated fetal weight (EFW) percentiles and performed the same analysis.

Results We analyzed 14 554 pregnancies from 2004 to 2015. The mean UA-PI and mean UA-PI z-scores in the LGA group were lower than in the AGA and SGA groups (p < 0.001). UA-PI and UA-PI z-scores were linearly related to birthweight percentiles (p < 0.001) and to EFW percentiles (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that low UA-PI was independently associated with neonatal LGA (p < 0.001).

Conclusion The higher the EFW and BW percentiles, the lower the UA-PI. However, reference ranges for UA Doppler are only based on gestation weeks. Further studies are needed to clarify whether customized reference ranges based on EFW percentiles are more appropriate for the evaluation of fetal wellbeing in the third trimester.
Preclinical Evaluation of Antitumoral and Cytotoxic Properties of Viscum album Fraxini Extract on Pediatric Tumor Cells
Authors: Menke Katrin , Schwermer Melanie , Schramm Alexander , Zuzak Tycho J.
Published: October 2019

In Europe, especially in German-speaking countries, administration of mistletoe extracts is the most common and popular complementary and alternative therapy approach reported in oncology. Mistletoe therapy is applied to children with cancer for curative and palliative therapeutic regimes with increasing frequency, but at the same time, there are only a few studies on the effectiveness of this therapy. Therefore, we have investigated the response of various pediatric cell lines (acute myeloid leukemia, Ewingʼs sarcoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, medulloblastoma, neuroblastoma, and osteosarcoma) to mistletoe extract, abnobaVISCUM Fraxini. Effects on cell proliferation, cell cycle distribution as well as on mitochondrial integrity and caspase-mediated apoptosis were investigated in neuroblastoma cell lines, SH-SY5Y and Kelly. Additionally, in vitro tumor cell migration and invasion were studied. In vivo effects of the mistletoe extract were investigated in a syngeneic neuroblastoma mouse model. We could show that tumor cell lines were from 5- to 640-fold more sensitive to abnobaVISCUM Fraxini treatment than non-tumorigenic fibroblasts, whereby neuroblastoma cell lines were the most sensitive. For two neuroblastoma cell lines, SH-SY5Y and Kelly, induction of caspase-9-mediated apoptosis, a decrease of mitochondrial integrity as well as attenuation of migration and invasion were observed. In vivo experiments revealed a reduction of tumor growth and a prolonged survival of tumor-bearing animals. In summary, we can state that these results provide the first preclinical data for cytotoxic activities of abnobaVISCUM Fraxini for a broad panel of pediatric tumor cell lines, in particular, neuroblastoma cells. Thus, it might be a potential remedy for the supportive treatment of neuroblastoma.
Anticariogenic Potential of Korean Native Plant Extracts against Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Lee Yun-Chae , Cho Sung-Gook , Kim Sang-Woo , Kim Jeong Nam
Published: October 2019

Numerous chemically synthesized compounds are widely used in oral hygiene products. However, due to their potential risk, there is a need to improve the safety and quality of dental care by seeking alternative control agents such as those naturally found in plant materials. Here we assessed antibacterial potentials of extracts from 100 species of Korean native plants against Streptococcus mutans on cariogenesis. Among those, extracts from five plants (Arctii Fructus, Caryopteris incana, Aralia continentalis, Symplocarpus renifolius, and Lamium amplexicaule) showed a growth inhibition of S. mutans. The five extracts were further individually evaluated for their minimal inhibitory concentration and minimal bactericidal concentration. Interestingly, a synergistic antibacterial activity was observed with the combination of sodium fluoride and the plant extracts. To determine the anti-biofilm activity of plant extracts, S. mutans was treated with increasing concentrations of the extracts in the range from 1250 to 3750 µg/mL. When S. mutans was grown in the defined biofilm medium containing the individual extracts of 47 species, the biofilm amount markedly decreased compared to that of a negative control. Notably, the extract of S. renifolius significantly downregulated the gtf and spaP genes for synthesis of glucan and adhesive proteins in S. mutans, and L. amplexicaule decreased the expression of gtfD gene. Therefore, these results demonstrate that the five plant extracts modulate survival and pathogenesis of S. mutans by growth inhibition and downregulation of the gene(s) implicated in biofilm formation.
Endoscopic Ultrasound Features Associated with Malignancy and Aggressiveness of Nonhypovascular Solid Pancreatic Lesions: Results from a Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Crinó Stefano Francesco , Brandolese Alessandro , Vieceli Filippo , Paiella Salvatore , Conti Bellocchi Maria Cristina , Manfrin Erminia , Bernardoni Laura , Sina Sokol , D’Onofrio Mirko , Marchegiani Giovanni , Larghi Alberto , Frulloni Luca , Landoni Luca , Gabbrielli Armando
Published: October 2019

Background and Study Aims On contrast-enhanced imaging studies, nonhypovascular (i. e., isovascular and hypervascular) patterns can be observed in solid pancreatic lesions (SPLs) of different nature, prognosis, and management. We aimed to identify endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) features of nonhypovascular SPLs associated with malignancy/aggressiveness. The secondary aims were EUS tissue acquisition (EUS-TA) outcome and safety in this setting of patients.

Patients and Methods This prospective observational study included patients with nonhypovascular SPLs detected on cross-sectional imaging and referred for EUS-TA. Lesion features (size, site, margins, echotexture, vascular pattern, and upstream dilation of the main pancreatic duct) were recorded. Malignancy/aggressiveness was determined by evidence of carcinoma at biopsy/surgical pathology, signs of aggressiveness (perineural invasion, lymphovascular invasion, and/or microscopic tumor extension/infiltration or evidence of metastatic lymph nodes) in the surgical specimen, radiologic detection of lymph nodes or distant metastases, and/or tumor growth > 5 mm/6 months. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to assess the primary aim.

Results A total of 154 patients with 161 SPLs were enrolled. 40 (24.8 %) lesions were defined as malignant/aggressive. Irregular margins and size > 20 mm were independent factors associated with malignancy/aggressiveness (p < 0.001, OR = 5.2 and p = 0.003, OR = 2.1, respectively). However, size > 20 mm was not significant in the subgroup of other-than-neuroendocrine tumor (NET) lesions. The EUS-TA accuracy was 92 %, and the rate of adverse events was 4 %.

Conclusion Irregular margins on EUS are associated with malignancy/aggressiveness of nonhypovascular SPLs. Size > 20 mm should be considered a malignancy-related feature only in NET patients. EUS-TA is safe and highly accurate for differential diagnosis in this group of patients.
π-Hole Interactions with Various Nitro Compounds Relevant for Medicine: DFT Calculations and Surveys of the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD) and the Protein Data Bank (PDB)
Authors: Hoffmann Jari M. , Sadhoe Akshay K. , Mooibroek Tiddo J.
Published: October 2019

Model DFT computations and a thorough evaluation of the Cambridge structural database (CSD) and the protein data bank (PDB) were conducted to assess the occurrence and significance of intermolecular π-hole interactions with various nitro compounds relevant to medicine. DFT calculations indicate interaction energies between –3.9 to –6.5 kcal·mol–1, which is in the order of typical hydrogen- and halogen­-bonding interactions. Ample structural evidence for the occurrence of nitro π-hole interactions was found within the CSD and the PDB.
Anatomic and Embryological Aspects of the Cardiovascular System of Albino Wistar Rats
Authors: De Russi Brenno Marco , Carvalho Camila Albuquerque Melo
Published: October 2019

The Wistar albino rat is the animal most commonly used in scientific research around the world. Knowledge of the anatomy of the body of these animals is key in the research field, especially in cases when the research requires experimental surgery. Descriptive literature on the morphology of the cardiovascular system of these animals, particularly the heart, is old and difficult to access. Publications in journals are not readily available, and books approach the subject in a superficial way. The aim of this study is to research, organize, and translate the literature on the anatomy and embryology of the cardiovascular system of the albino Wistar rat to facilitate the use of this information in future research that requires the knowledge of the anatomy of these animals, for example, experimental surgery research.
Cerebral Artery Hypoplasia in a Select Adult Kenyan Population
Authors: Ogengo Julius A. , Cheruiyot Isaac , Amuti Thomas , Ongidi Ibsen , Mwachaka Philip , Olabu Beda , Kitunguu Peter , Sinkeet Simeon
Published: October 2019

Background Hypoplasia of cerebral arteries predisposes to stroke and cerebral aneurysms which have an increased incidence in sub-Saharan Africa. The frequency and pattern of cerebral artery hypoplasia, however, shows population variations, and data from the African population remain scanty.

Objectives This study aimed to determine the percentage of hypoplasia in the anterior, middle, and posterior cerebral, anterior and posterior communicating, basilar, and vertebral arteries.

Materials and Methods Sections of the basilar, vertebral, posterior, and anterior communicating arteries and anterior, middle, and posterior cerebral arteries were taken, processed for histology, and examined with a light microscope at ×40. The images of the vessels were taken by a photomicroscope and circumference analyzed with the aid of Scion image analyzer. The average diameter of 10 sections was taken to be the diameter of the artery in analysis. Hypoplasia was then defined as internal diameter ≤1 mm. Photographs of representative samples of asymmetry were taken, data were analyzed using SPSS, and gender differences were analyzed using the Student's test. Results were presented in tables.

Results Two hundred and eighteen formalin-fixed brains of adult Kenyans at the Department of Human Anatomy, University of Nairobi, were studied. Of the 218, 48 brains (22%) did not have vessels with any form of hypoplasia while 170 (78%) did have vessels. Of these, anterior circulation hypoplasia (anterior cerebral artery and posterior communicating artery) was seen in 100 brains (46%) and posterior circulation hypoplasia (middle and posterior cerebral, basilar, and vertebral arteries) in 69 brains (32%).

Conclusion Cerebral arterial hypoplasia is frequent in the select adult Kenyan population.