bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypothesis Testing for the Questionnaire Investigation on Tourists’ Behavior
Authors: Okubo Akane , Higuchi Yuki , Takeyasu Kazuhiro
Published: October 2017

Tourists from abroad are increasing rapidly in Japan. Kawazu town in Izu Peninsula is famous for its cherry trees. In the cherry blossom season, many tourists visit this town. The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival was carried out in February 2015. Our research investigation was performed during that period. In this paper, a questionnaire investigation is executed in order to clarify tourists’ behavior, and to seek the possibility of developing regional collaboration among local government, tourism related industry and visitors. Hypothesis testing was executed based on that. We have set 10 Null hypotheses. In the hypothesis testing, 6 cases out of 10 null hypotheses were rejected and the majority of hypotheses were insisted clearly. We have obtained fruitful results.
The Real Exchange Rate-Foreign Direct Investment Controversy in South Africa: An Application of ARDL Approach
Authors: Mohamed Dahir Ahmed , Mahat Fuaziah , Bany-Ariffin A. N. , Ab Razak Nazrul Hisyam
Published: October 2017

This paper examines the relationship between real exchange rate and foreign direct investment. We apply autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bounds testing method to estimate short and long-run relationships between the series in South Africa over the period of 1987-2016. The results reveal long-run cointegration relationships among variables are confirmed, implying real exchange rate, domestic market size stimulate the foreign direct investment in the long run. Furthermore, there is significant Granger unidirectional causality foreign direct investment to real exchange rate in short and long run and from market size to trade openness in a short run. This finding further suggests that the exchange rate instability are likely to be substantially harmful to a positive effect of FDI and should be avoided in South Africa.
Discourse Presentation as an Index of Style: A Comparative Corpus Stylistic Analysis of Self and Other Translators
Authors: Obaid Zara , Mahmood Muhammad Asim , Iqbal Javed , Zahoor Maryam
Published: October 2017

This study aims to explore the style of other and self-translators in comparison with non-translated texts, assuming discourse presentation as an indicator of style. Theoretically, other and self-translators are considered different in their translation style. The reason is that self-translators enjoy more liberty and authority over the source text as compared to other-translators (Bozkurt, 2014; Cordingley, 2013). However, practically, previous studies have explored either the style of self-translators (Ehrlich, 2009) or other-translators (Saldanha, 2011). None of the studies has provided a comparison among these types. The current study is a pioneer in establishing general styles of self and other-translators. It explores three categories of literary texts i.e., by self-translators, other-translators and by Pakistani writers. Each category further comprises of three representative texts. They are, then, processed through AntConc 3.4.4 and tagged manually. The model of speech, writing and thought presentation proposed by Semino & Short (2004) based on Leech & Short’s (1981) model is used, as it encompasses all the presentation techniques employed in literary texts. Frequencies acquired through tagging are then normalized and results are presented in the form of graphs. Findings of the research reveal that both other and self-translators are character-oriented in their style. However, other-translators are more objective and reader-oriented with less interference from the narrator. In contrast, self-translators are more subjective with more intervention from the narrator. These results are significant for further researches concerning self and other-translators.
Shared Arguments in Modern Standard Arabic
Authors: ALotaibi Yasir
Published: October 2017

This paper discusses shared arguments in coordinate structures in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). It assumes that a shared argument between two conjuncts can be a subject or an object. The paper uses the lexical-functional grammar (LFG) framework for analyzing this kind of structure. In LFG, the two possible analyses for similar structures involve analyzing the shared argument as bearing two functions in the two conjuncts. The first analysis is the split analysis, where the shared argument is zipped to both conjuncts by assuming that the verb phrases in both conjuncts are split. The second analysis is function spreading, in which the function of the shared argument is spread from one conjunct to another.  This paper argues that the previous analyses   in LFG have faced some problems in accounting for this phenomenon in MSA. To solve these problems, this paper contributes a new analysis for shared arguments that involves analyzing the missing argument, whether it is a subject or an object, as a null argument.
Translation of Military Terms in Sun Tzu’s The Art of War
Authors: Sha Lei
Published: October 2017

The Art of War, renowned as one of the most influential military book in the world, has been extending its tremendous popularity and profound influence with over 30 English versions. In his book, Sun Tzu provided an overall view of military strategies to resolve contradiction and win battles. Through its spread across different countries, the military terms has remained as translation difficulties in various tasks. This paper will mainly focus on the translation of military terms in The Art of War from the comparative study of two translated versions with appropriate approaches to solving relevant issues in the task.
Students’ Attitude towards Teachers’ Use Of Code-Switching and Its Impact on Learning English
Authors: Rauf Ahmer
Published: October 2017

The ability of using two languages simultaneously with native like proficiency is called bilingualism. The present study explores the attitude of the students towards the use of code-switching, the relationship between code-switching and its effects on students’ learning and the impact of Urdu-English code-switching on students’ proficiency in target language. In Pakistan, no proper attention is ever paid to the different aspects of bilingual code-switching in classroom and it is the need of the hour to develop an in-depth understanding of bilingual code-switching in particular Pakistani context and to get insight into the importance of different usages and functions of bilingual code-switching in Pakistani ELT classrooms. The researcher has gone for the quantitative approach to achieve the objectives of this study as it renders the research to produce calculated and generalizable results. So, a questionnaire comprising of 35 questionnaire items on Likert Scale was designed to collect data from 400 male and female intermediate ESL learners and the collected data were analyzed through SPSS version XX. The study provides identifying motivational challenges in the use of bilingual (English-Urdu) code-switching and in taking a more realistic perspective about the ELL (English Language Learning) situation in the country.
An Analysis of Translation Errors: A Case Study of Vietnamese EFL Students
Authors: Cuc Pham Thi Kim
Published: October 2017

The study aimed to analyze the translation errors committed by Vietnamese EFL students, and identify the source of errors, then inform some implications of pedagogy to improve the translation ability of the students. To this end, 36 Vietnamese students, who at the time of the study were studying English as their major, were subjected to a Vietnamese-English translation test. Translation errors were analyzed using a threefold perspective proposed by Popescu (2012) including linguistic errors, comprehension errors, and translation errors. Findings showed that translation errors and linguistic errors are the most common errors, of which errors related to lexical choice, syntax and collocations are the most frequently committed by the students. The source of the errors could be attributed to inter-lingual, intra-lingual interference or errors can be the integration of the source. Results were discussed and implications for the improvements of translation ability and recommendations for future research were presented.
Investigating Changes in Demotivation among Chinese EFL Learners from an Activity Theory Perspective
Authors: Li Chili , Qian Jinghua
Published: October 2017

This paper reports on a study that investigated the changes of demotivation to learn English over the four college years among Chinese English as a Foreign Language Learners (EFL) from the perspective of Activity Theory. Semi-structured interviews were conducted on fifteen college EFL learners in China. The interview data were analyzed by means of content analysis to explore the changes in the demotivation among the participants and the reasons why their demotivation changed. The results revealed that: 1) the interviewees experienced changes in their demotivation during the four college years, with a stronger demotivation in the first and fourth year; 2) the dynamic disposition of the respondents’ demotivation is related to such factors as subject (Interest and future career), object (English examinations), tools (textbooks) and community (peers and teachers). The findings are implicative for teachers and students to tackle demotivation in English class for students at technological universities in China and other similar EFL contexts beyond.
Critical Discourse Analysis of Tariq Ali’s Novel “The Stone Woman”: A Corpus Driven Study
Authors: Amir M. Asaf , Mehmood Asim
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this paper is to explore the ideology working behind Tariq Ali’s novel The Stone Woman through Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) by applying corpus driven approach. Gee’s (2011) CDA tools have been used to explore the ideology working behind the novel. This ideology has been subjected to Althusser’s (1969) theory of ideology to find how Ideological State Apparatus (ISA) collaborates with Repressive State Apparatus (RSA) to naturalize and internalize certain ideologies. It has been concluded that the supremacy of the male members of the family and society has been accepted as an ideology and this ideology has been naturalized and internalized by using certain institutions like marriage, family, customs and traditions. Not only the ideologies have been institutionalized but also this process works for the extension, strength and dominance of the male members of the society.
Development of an Electrospun Nanofibrous Web with Hyaluronic Acid
Authors: Milašius Rimvydas , Ryklin Dzmitry , Yasinskaya Natallia , Yeutushenka Aliaksandr , Ragaišiene Audrone , Rukuižiene Žaneta , Mikučioniené Daiva
Published: October 2017

Textile materials with an electrospun nanofibrous web can be used fo ar wide range of applications, including medicine and health care. In this research, polyamide-6 and hyaluronic acid were used for the development of a nanofibrous web via electrospinning. Hyaluronic acid is one of the most interesting ingredients used in skin care. It is very important that the electrospun polyamide-6 nanofibrous structure binds nanoparticles of hyaluronic acid not covering the surface of these particles. The main goal of this work was to develop an electrospun nanofibrous polyamide-6 web with hyaluronic acid which can be used for health care and/or cosmetology A. polyamide-6 nanofibrous web with hyaluronic acid was successfully developed via electrospinning. The presence of hyaluronic acid in the nanoweb was confirmed after web treatment with hot (95%) water. Hyaluronic acid was transported from the spinning solution to the electrospun web, was not isolated from the environment by polyamide-6, and could interact with human skin.
Airflow Characteristics During the Rotor Spun Composite Yarn Spinning Process
Authors: Yang Ruihua , Gao Weidong , Xue Yuan
Published: October 2017

Rotor spun composite yarn shows compound performances when combined with staple fibres and filaments, such as excellent hand feeling as well as extreme elasticity and strength. Air characteristics including pressure and speed are critical factors of the rotor spun composite yarn spinning process. In this paper, air flow characteristics in a rotor composite yarn spinning unit are simulated and analysed by Ansys, and then verified by experiments. The results show that with the same spinning conditions, static pressure within the filament guide tube is lowest: -9 kPa and in rotor around -5 kPa. The speed of the airstream accelerates from the transfer channel inlet to the outlet, and reaches the largest value of 386 m/s at the outlet. As the rotor speed increases, the airflow velocity increases; the static pressure decreases; the breaking strength and CV of the composite yarn increase, and the breaking elongation and hairiness decrease according to the experiment results.
Surface Characterization of Low Temperature Plasma-Induced Cashmere Fibre by Air Gas
Authors: Wang Yong , Yu Weidong , Yu Weidong
Published: October 2017

Low temperature plasma (LTP) processing technology was successfully applied to modify cashmere fibres and three kinds of assemblies were formed, i.e., weak-treated, optimised -treated and severe-treated ones. Treatment parameters were optimised in terms of the tensile behaviour, friction effect, wettability and touch feeling of cashmere without major modification of the properties inside the fibre. Detailed characterisation was performed to investigate the surface morphologies and chemical compositions of plasma-induced fibres. SEM demonstrates different minor etching effects of the treated cashmere fibres. XPS results indicate a significant increase in surface concentrations of O and N, and an obvious decrease in C after different LTP treatments as a whole. The C-H/C-C non-polar bonds were reduced and C-O/C-N, C = O polar groups were remarkably increased on the cashmere surface after plasma modification. In addition, a carboxyl group (O-C = O) formed. It is found that oxygen-containing bonds, namely, C-O/C-N, C = O and O-C = O, are responsible for the hydrophilic properties of cashmere.
Studies on the Use of Water Reclaimed from Textile Wastewater in a Closed Circuit
Authors: Sójka-Ledakowicz Jadwiga , Kos Lech , Żyłła Renata , Paździor Katarzyna , Ledakowicz Stanisław
Published: October 2017

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Warp-knitted Fabric Defect Segmentation Based on the Shearlet Transform
Authors: Dong Zhijia , Xia Dong , Ma Pibo , Jiang Gaoming
Published: October 2017

The Shearlet transform has been a burgeoning method applied in the area of image processing recently which, differing from the Wavelet transform, has excellent properties in processing singularities for multidimensional signals. Not only is it similar to the performance of the Curvelet transform, it also overcomes the disadvantage of the Curvelet transform with respect to discretization. In this paper, the Shearlet transform with segmented threshold de-nosing is proposed to segment a warp-knitted fabric defect. Firstly a warp-knitted fabric image of size 512*512 is filtered by the Laplacian Pyramid transform and decomposed into low frequency and high frequency coefficients. Secondly the high frequency coefficients are operated with a pseudo-polar grid and then convoluted by the window function. Thirdly the shearlet coefficients will be obtained through redefining the Cartesian coordinates from the pseudo-polar grid coordinates and de-noised by the segmented threshold method. Then the coefficients which have high energy are selected for reconstruction in an inverse way using the previous steps. Finally the iterative threshold method and object operation based on morphology are applied to segment out the defect profile. The experiment’s result states that the Shearlet transform shows excellent performance in segmenting a common warp-knitted fabric defect, indicating that the segment results can be applied for further defect automatic recognition.
Modeling the Performance of Horizontal Anchor Lines During Fall Arrest
Authors: Baszczyński Krzysztof
Published: October 2017

The basic materials used for the construction of anchor lines for personal equipment protection against falls from a height are ropes and textile webbing. During fall arrest, horizontal anchor lines significantly affect the forces acting on the worker and the work site elements, as well as the fall arrest distance. Manufacturers of the equipment are required to estimate those parameters for various conditions of use by numerical simulations with a validated model. The model discussed in this paper reflects the mechanical structure of the line (whether singles-span or multi-span) taking into account Maxwell’s and Kelvin–Voigt’s non-linear rheological models for viscoelastic materials. The model consists of a system of seven non-linear differential equations with the parameters describing static load-elongation characteristics and time-courses of dynamic loading forces for selected ropes and textile webbing. The numerical model developed was used to simulate the performance of horizontal anchor lines of different constructions. The model was validated by comparing the numerical calculations with laboratory test results and was shown to be sufficiently accurate to be used for designing fall protection equipment.
Mathematical Modelling of Mechanical Properties of Textiles Subjected to Tension
Authors: Zajączkowski Jerzy
Published: October 2017

Mathematical modelling of textiles subjected to one-directional tensile forces is presented. The models include the straightening of fibres at the beginning, accompanied by the compression of neighbouring fibres, and finally the elongation of the material of fibres when the straightening stops growing. As the result of fibres stretching, the transverse compressive forces hold all the fibres together and are responsible for maintaining the friction forces. Two models are proposed: the rhombus, representing perpendicular fibres, and the helix, representing parallel fibres. The final equations describing both models are found to be the same. Calculations demonstrating the behaviour of the model under dynamic loading were performed. The results are illustrated graphically and discussed.
Collaborative 3D-To-2D Tight-Fitting Garment Pattern Design Process For Scoliotic People
Authors: Hong, Yan , Hong, Yan , Hong, Yan , Hong, Yan , Zeng Xianyi , Bruniaux Pascal , Liu Kaixuan , Chen Yan , Chen Yan
Published: October 2017

This paper presents a virtual design process for a tight-fitting garment pattern for adapted consumer garments, aimed at consumers with scoliosis. The design process proposed is based on a virtual human model created using a 3D scanner, allowing simulation of the morphological shape of an individual with atypical physical deformations. Customized 2D and 3D virtual garment prototyping tools are used in combination to create products through interactions between the consumer, designer and pattern maker. After following an interactive sequence: Scanning – Design – Display – Evaluation – Adjustment, a final design solution acceptable to both the designer and consumer can be obtained. Through this process, traditional 2D garment design knowledge, especially design rules influenced by the fabric information, is fully utilized to support the design process proposed. Using the knowledge based collaborative design process, design satisfaction can be largely improved.
Orthognathic treatment of facial asymmetry due to temporomandibular joint ankylosis
Authors: Gulsen Ayse , Sibar Serhat , Ozmen Selahattin
Published: October 2017

The aim of this study was to present a case series of the orthognathic treatment of facial asymmetry due to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis and to characterize the current treatment modalities through a literature review. Four patients who presented with facial asymmetry due to TMJ ankylosis between 2010 and 2014 were included in this study. TMJ ankylosis was surgically treated before bimaxillary surgery with advancement genioplasty in some of the cases. In 2 cases, 3-dimensional (3D) models were used for diagnosis and treatment planning, as 3D models are very important tools for planning surgical maneuvers. Aesthetically pleasant facial symmetry and a good facial profile were obtained in all the cases.
Salvage of Unilateral Complete Ear Amputation with Continuous Local Hyperbaric Oxygen, Platelet-Rich Plasma and Polydeoxyribonucleotide without Micro-Revascularization
Authors: Lee Sang Keon , Lim Yoon Min , Lew Dae Hyun , Song Seung Yong
Published: October 2017

In many cases of complete ear amputation, microvascular surgery is required for tissue perfusion and organ survival. However, microvascular reconstruction is not always feasible in the absence of suitable vessels. Here, we present the case of a 76-year-old man who underwent complete amputation of the left ear after a collapse at home because of cardiogenic syncope. He was treated with primary replantation and underwent a postoperative salvage course including continuous local hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, and polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) injections. The ear was almost completely salvaged, with a tiny eschar at the mid-scapha on both the anterior and posterior aspects. This case demonstrates the efficacy of local HBOT with PRP and PDRN injections.
Selection of oncoplastic surgical technique in Asian breast cancer patients
Authors: Shin Eui Sun , Kim Hyo In , Song Seung Yong , Lew Dae Hyun , Lee Dong Won
Published: October 2017

Background Oncoplastic surgery is being increasingly performed in Korean women; however, unlike Westerners, Korean women usually have small to moderate-sized breasts. To achieve better outcomes in reconstructed breasts, several factors should be considered to determine the optimal surgical method.

Methods A total of 108 patients who underwent oncoplastic surgery from January 2013 to December 2016 were retrospectively investigated. We used various methods, including glandular tissue reshaping, latissimus dorsi (LD) flap transposition, and reduction oncoplasty, to restore the breast volume and symmetry.

Results The mean weight of the tumor specimens was 40.46 g, and the ratio of the tumor specimen weight to breast volume was 0.12 g/mL in the patients who underwent glandular tissue reshaping (n=59). The corresponding values were 101.47 g and 0.14 g/mL, respectively, in the patients who underwent reduction oncoplasty (n=17), and 82.54 g and 0.20 g/mL, respectively, in those treated with an LD flap (n=32). Glandular tissue reshaping was mostly performed in the upper outer quadrant, and LD flap transposition was mostly performed in the lower inner quadrant. No major complications were noted. Most patients were satisfied with the aesthetic results.

Conclusions We report satisfactory outcomes of oncoplastic surgical procedures in Korean patients. The results regarding specimen weight and the tumor-to-breast ratio of Asian patients will be a helpful reference point for determining the most appropriate oncoplastic surgical technique.
Retromandibular reduction of medially dislocated condylar process fractures
Authors: Lee Gyu Hyeong , Kang Dong Hee , Oh Sang Ah
Published: October 2017

Background Condylar process fractures account for one-third of all mandibular fractures, and the distal fragment is prone to dislocate to the medial side due to the pulling of the lateral pterygoid muscle. Retromandibular approaches are commonly used, but the intraoperative view becomes limited in medially dislocated fractures. This study summarized a series of cases of retromandibular reduction for medially dislocated condylar process fractures and described our supplementary procedure to realign the dislocated condylar process.

Methods Nine patients with medially dislocated condylar process fractures underwent surgical correction from January 2012 to December 2016. In 6 of them, it was possible to realign the fractures with a conventional retromandibular approach, but for 3 cases of severe dislocation to the middle cranial fossa, a supplementary transoral procedure was carried out. The angle difference between the ramus and condyle, ramus height, and maximal mouth opening (MMO) were evaluated.

Results All 9 cases were restored to the proper anatomical alignment without any major complications, and postoperative images revealed successful union. The angle difference was 8.94°±4.11° preoperatively, and 0.99±0.49° at the 6-month follow-up. The pretreatment ramus height difference was 6.12±6.09 mm, and the postoperative difference was 0.18±0.10 mm. These changes after surgery were statistically significant. The MMO before surgery was 11.44±3.0 mm, and the postoperative MMO was 37.2±2.9 mm, reflecting a significant increase after reduction.

Conclusions Retromandibular reduction is a useful method in medially dislocated condylar process fractures, and additional transoral assistance should be considered to realign condylar processes that severely dislocate to the middle cranial fossa.
Autogenous fat grafting for mild-to-moderate postoperative temporal hollowing after decompressive craniectomy: One-year follow-up
Authors: Choi Jaemin , Choi Hyungon , Shin Donghyeok , Kim Jeenam , Lee Myungchul , Kim Soonheum , Jo Dongin , Kim Cheolkeun
Published: October 2017

Background Temporal hollowing is inevitable after decompressive craniectomy. This complication affects self-perception and quality of life, and various techniques and materials have therefore been used to restore patients’ confidence. Autologous fat grafting in postoperative scar tissue has been considered challenging because of the hostile tissue environment. However, in this study, we demonstrate that autologous fat grafting can be a simple and safe treatment of choice, even for postoperative depressed temporal scar tissue.

Methods Autologous fat grafting was performed in 13 patients from 2011 to 2016. Fat was harvested according to Coleman’s strategy, using a tumescent technique. Patient-reported outcomes were collected preoperatively and at 1-month and 1-year follow-ups. Photographs were taken at each visit.

Results The thighs were the donor site in all cases for the first procedure. The median final volume of harvested fat was 29.4 mL (interquartile range [IQR], 24.0–32.8 mL). The median final volume of fat transferred into the temporal area was 4.9 mL on the right side (IQR, 2.5–7.1 mL) and 4.6 mL on the left side (IQR, 3.7–5.9 mL). There were no major complications. The patient-reported outcomes showed significantly improved self-perceptions at 1 month and at 1 year.

Conclusions Despite concerns about the survival of grafted fat in scar tissue, we advise autologous fat grafting for patients with temporal hollowing resulting from a previous craniectomy.
Surgical Treatment of Zone 1 Fifth Metatarsal Base Fractures Using the Locking Compression Plate Distal Ulna Hook Plate
Authors: Zhao Jingjing , Yu Bin , Xie Ming , Huang Ruokun , Xiao Kai
Published: October 2017

Background:

The distal ulna hook plate was recently introduced for the treatment of fifth metatarsal base fractures, but no special articles have reported the surgical results of the plate fixation of displaced or comminuted fifth metatarsal base fractures in zone 1, which are the most common forefoot fractures.

Methods:

Twenty-one patients with Lawrence classification zone 1 fifth metatarsal base fractures with extra-articular displacement greater than 2 mm (n = 13) and intra-articular displacement fractures (n = 8) were included in the study. Patients were treated with the distal ulna hook plate. Patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically, and the functional outcomes were graded using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society midfoot scoring system. Time to union and return to pre-injury levels of activity were calculated.

Results:

Mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society midfoot scores were 42.25 points (range, 27–55 points) preoperatively and 93.16 points (range, 87–100 points) 1 year postoperatively. Mean time to complete union was 61.9 days (range, 52–85 days). Nineteen patients reported returning to previous activities of daily living at a mean of 79.8 days (range, 59–91 days). Two patients showed radiographic signs of mild degenerative changes and noted mild pain, and one patient experienced hardware irritation.

Conclusions:

The distal ulna hook plate might be considered an effective surgical method for zone 1 displaced fifth metatarsal base fractures or multifragmentary, osteoporotic fifth metatarsal base fractures.
A Rare Case of Chondroblastoma with Revision After Graft Rejection
Authors: Gumbiner Brandon , Jacobsen Elizabeth , Stancukas Mary , Nguyen Ngan
Published: October 2017

We present a rare case of calcaneal chondroblastoma with subsequent surgical revision after graft rejection in a 13-year-old boy. Complications were encountered after the injectable bone graft filler was placed in the calcaneus after curettage. With noted subsequent sinus tract formation, revision surgery was performed that involved dissection of the sinus tract, removal of bone void filler, and application of demineralized bone matrix sponge human allograft soaked in vancomycin-impregnated saline. Sixteen weeks after the revision surgical intervention, the patient resumed normal athletic activities without pain or restrictions. One and a half years after the initial surgery, the patient had complete resolution of the calcaneal cyst and was discharged.
Point-of-Care Diagnosis of Onychomycosis by Dermoscopy
Authors: Bodman Myron A.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Onychomycosis is one of the most common diseases of the toenails. The costs of diagnosis and treatment are substantial, and as the population ages, the overall cost burden will continue to escalate. The purpose of this study was to correlate dermoscopic features with pathologic diagnosis to support the accuracy of point-of-care diagnosis by dermoscopic examination.

Methods:

Nail unit pathology reports of 52 patients with abnormal great toenails were compared with the dermoscopic features detected by nail unit dermoscopy.

Results:

The dermoscopic analysis predicted the laboratory diagnosis in 90.4% of the study patients. The specific dermoscopic findings of short spikes (P < .001), long striae (P < .001), aurora borealis (P < .001), irregular termination (P = .003), dermatophytoma (P = .011), transverse onycholysis (P = .018), and dry scale (P = .04) patterns were all significantly associated with pathology test results consistent with oncyhomycosis. Transverse onycholysis (P = .018) was significantly associated with negative pathology results consistent with the diagnosis of nail dystrophy.

Conclusions:

Point-of-care examination by dermoscopy positively correlates with histopathologic tests and could be used to diagnose onychomycosis while reducing diagnostic costs.
Novel mesostructured inclusions in the epidermal lining of Artemia franciscana ovisacs show optical activity
Authors: Hollergschwandtner Elena , Schwaha Thomas , Neumüller Josef , Kaindl Ulrich , Gruber Daniela , Eckhard Margret , Stöger-Pollach Michael , Reipert Siegfried
Published: October 2017

Background

Biomineralization, e.g., in sea urchins or mollusks, includes the assembly of mesoscopic superstructures from inorganic crystalline components and biopolymers. The resulting mesocrystals inspire biophysicists and material scientists alike, because of their extraordinary physical properties. Current efforts to replicate mesocrystal synthesis in vitro require understanding the principles of their self-assembly in vivo. One question, not addressed so far, is whether intracellular crystals of proteins can assemble with biopolymers into functional mesocrystal-like structures. During our electron microscopy studies into Artemia franciscana (Crustacea: Branchiopoda), we found initial evidence of such proteinaceous mesostructures.

Results

EM preparations with high-pressure freezing and accelerated freeze substitution revealed an extraordinary intracellular source of mesostructured inclusions in both the cyto-and nucleoplasm of the epidermal lining of ovisacs of A. franciscana. Confocal reflection microscopy not only confirmed our finding; it also revealed reflective, light dispersing activity of these flake-like structures, their positioning and orientation with respect to the ovisac inside. Both the striation of alternating electron dense and electron-lucent components and the sharp edges of the flakes indicate self-assembly of material of yet unknown origin under supposed participation of crystallization. However, selected area electron diffraction could not verify the status of crystallization. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis measured a marked increase in nitrogen within the flake-like inclusion, and the almost complete absence of elements that are typically involved in inorganic crystallization. This rise in nitrogen could possibility be related to higher package density of proteins, achieved by mesostructure assembly.

Conclusions

The ovisac lining of A. franciscana is endowed with numerous mesostructured inclusions that have not been previously reported. We hypothesize that their self-assembly was from proteinaceous polycrystalline units and carbohydrates. These mesostructured flakes displayed active optical properties, as an umbrella-like, reflective cover of the ovisac, which suggests a functional role in the reproduction of A. franciscana. In turn, studies into ovisac mesostructured inclusions could help to optimizing rearing Artemia as feed for fish farming. We propose Artemia ovisacs as an in vivo model system for studying mesostructure formation.
Molecular phylogeny and evolutionary history ofMoricandiaDC (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Perfectti Francisco , Gómez José M. , González-Megías Adela , Abdelaziz Mohamed , Lorite Juan
Published: October 2017

Background

The phylogeny of tribe Brassiceae (Brassicaceae) has not yet been resolved because of its complex evolutionary history. This tribe comprises economically relevant species, including the genusMoricandiaDC. This genus is currently distributed in North Africa, Middle East, Central Asia and Southern Europe, where it is associated with arid and semi-arid environments. Although some species ofMoricandiahave been used in several phylogenetic studies, the phylogeny of this genus is not well established.

Methods

Here we present a phylogenetic analysis of the genusMoricandiausing a nuclear (the internal transcribed spacers of the ribosomal DNA) and two plastidial regions (parts of the NADH dehydrogenase subunit F gene and thetrnT-trnF region). We also included in the analyses members of their sister genusRytidocarpusand from the close genusEruca.

Results

The phylogenetic analyses showed a clear and robust phylogeny of the genusMoricandia. The Bayesian inference tree was concordant with the maximum likelihood and timing trees, with the plastidial and nuclear trees showing only minor discrepancies. The genusMoricandiaappears to be formed by two main lineages: the Iberian clade including three species, and the African clade including the four species inhabiting the Southern Mediterranean regions plusM. arvensis.

Discussion

We dated the main evolutionary events of this genus, showing that the origin of the Iberian clade probably occurred after a range expansion during the Messinian period, between 7.25 and 5.33 Ma. In that period, an extensive African-Iberian floral and faunal interchange occurred due to the existence of land bridges between Africa and Europa in what is, at present-days, the Strait of Gibraltar. We have demonstrated that a Spanish population previously ascribed toRytidocarpus moricandioidesis indeed aMoricandiaspecies, and we propose to name it asM. rytidocarpoidessp. nov. In addition, in all the phylogenetic analyses,M. foleyiappeared outside theMoricandialineage but within the genusEruca. Therefore,M. foleyishould be excluded from the genusMoricandiaand be ascribed, at least provisionally, to the genusEruca.
Missing School Days Following Sport-Related Concussion in High School Athletes
Authors: Covassin Tracey , Pollard-McGrandy Alyssa M. , Klein Lilian A. , Wiebe Douglas J. , Bretzin Abigail C.
Published: October 2024

Importance

Sport-related concussions (SRC) can significantly impact students’ attendance and academic performance, highlighting the importance of gradual return-to-learn protocols for recovery. Understanding the association between missed school days and recovery, especially across genders, is vital for effective concussion management in high school athletes.

Objectives

To describe missed school days in high school athletes with SRC and to determine associations between missed school days and authorized clearance to return to competition; secondarily, to determine whether school days missed differed by gender.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Cohort study among student athletes participating in athletics sponsored by the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) during academic years 2015 to 2023. SRC was a participant eligibility criterion and was defined as a head injury during participation in a MHSAA-sanctioned event. Data were analyzed from August 2015 to June 2023.

Exposures

Primary exposure was missed school days; additional exposures included gender, year of season, concussion history, event type, sport level, contact level, and athletic trainer involvement.

Main Outcome and Measure

The primary outcome was time to full unrestricted clearance following SRC.

Results

The analysis included a total of 20 934 individuals with SRC (13 869 boys [66.25%]). Gender (χ23 = 167.40; P < .001), season (χ221 = 57.41; P < .001), event type (χ23 = 99.29; P < .001), sport level (χ29 = 68.15; P < .001), contact level (χ26 = 56.73; P < .001), and initial evaluation (χ23 = 147.13; P < .001) were independently associated with missed school days. Athletes took a median (IQR) of 11 (7-16) days to return to full unrestricted clearance. Relative to no missed school days, there was a significant mean increase of 57% (incidence rate ratio, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.52-1.62) in time to full unrestricted clearance for 3 or more missed school days. The estimated mean days to return to sport were 12.15 (95% CI, 12.00-12.30) for 0 missed school days, 12.68 (95% CI, 12.39-12.96) for 1 missed school day, 15.47 (95% CI, 15.06-15.87) for 2 missed school days, and 19.08 (95% CI, 18.55-19.62) for 3 or more missed school days.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found that high school athletes typically missed 2 or fewer school days after SRC, suggesting that concussion management teams adhered to current recommendations of 24 to 48 hours of initial rest. The dose association, with more missed school days associated with slower return to play, suggests athletes’ missing more school days (eg, ≥3) may be associated with severity of concussion and warrant additional support to return to school and/or sport.
Adaptive Fuzzy Finite‐Time Command Filtered Control for Stochastic Nonlinear Systems With Unmodeled Dynamics and Dead‐Zone Constraints
Authors: Kang Shijia , Liu Peter Xiaoping , Wang Huanqing
Published: October 2024

In this article, the issue of adaptive fuzzy finite‐time command filtered control is discussed for nonlinear stochastic systems subject to unknown dead‐zone constraints and unmodeled dynamics. The packaged unknown nonlinearities are approximated by introducing fuzzy logic systems. An improved technique is introduced to cope with unknown functions with the structure of nonstrict‐feedback in the operation of controller design. Under the criterion of finite‐time stability, a novel fast convergent control scheme is developed. Additionally, the effect of filter errors bought by the command filters is diminished via applying corresponding error compensating signals and a measurable dynamic signal is adopted to handle unmodeled dynamics. The improved designed controller not only guarantees all the closed‐loop signals remain finite‐time bounded, but also makes the system output follows the given desirable trajectory under the bounded error. The usefulness of the designed strategy can be verified through the numerical and practical examples.
Breathable and Stretchable Epidermal Electronics for Health Management: Recent Advances and Challenges
Authors: Dong Jiancheng , Hou Jiayu , Peng Yidong , Zhang Yuxi , Liu Haoran , Long Jiayan , Park Steve , Liu Tianxi , Huang Yunpeng
Published: October 2024

Advanced epidermal electronic devices, capable of real‐time monitoring of physical, physiological, and biochemical signals and administering appropriate therapeutics, are revolutionizing personalized healthcare technology. However, conventional portable electronic devices are predominantly constructed from impermeable and rigid materials, which thus leads to the mechanical and biochemical disparities between the devices and human tissues, resulting in skin irritation, tissue damage, compromised signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), and limited operational lifespans. To address these limitations, a new generation of wearable on‐skin electronics built on stretchable and porous substrates has emerged. These substrates offer significant advantages including breathability, conformability, biocompatibility, and mechanical robustness, thus providing solutions for the aforementioned challenges. However, given their diverse nature and varying application scenarios, the careful selection and engineering of suitable substrates is paramount when developing high‐performance on‐skin electronics tailored to specific applications. This comprehensive review begins with an overview of various stretchable porous substrates, specifically focusing on their fundamental design principles, fabrication processes, and practical applications. Subsequently, a concise comparison of various methods is offered to fabricate epidermal electronics by applying these porous substrates. Following these, the latest advancements and applications of these electronics are highlighted. Finally, the current challenges are summarized and potential future directions in this dynamic field are explored.
Ultrafast Synthesis of MXenes in Minutes via Low‐Temperature Molten Salt Etching
Authors: Wang Yongbin , Zhou Bin , Tang Qi , Yang Yi , Pu Ben , Bai Jia , Xu Jing , Feng Qingguo , Liu Yan , Yang Weiqing
Published: October 2024

Developing green and efficient preparation strategies is a persistent pursuit in the field of 2D transition metal nitrides and/or carbides (MXenes). Traditional etching methods, such as HF‐based or high‐temperature Lewis‐acid‐molten‐salt etching route, require harsher etching conditions and exhibit lower preparation efficiency with limited scalability, severely constraining their commercial production and practical application. Here, an ultrafast low‐temperature molten salt (LTMS) etching method is presented for the large‐scale synthesis of diverse MXenes within minutes by employing NH4HF2 as the etchant. The increased thermal motion and improved diffusion of molten NH4HF2 molecules significantly expedite the etching process of MAX phases, thus achieving the preparation of Ti3C2Tx MXene in just 5 minutes. The universality of the LTMS method renders it a valuable approach for the rapid synthesis of various MXenes, including V4C3Tx, Nb4C3Tx, Mo2TiC2Tx, and Mo2CTx. The LTMS method is easy to scale up and can yield more than 100 g Ti3C2Tx in a single reaction. The obtained LTMS‐MXene exhibits excellent electrochemical performance for supercapacitors, evidently proving the effectiveness of the LTMS method. This work provides an ultrafast, universal, and scalable LTMS etching method for the large‐scale commercial production of MXenes.
An Energy‐Adjustable, Deformable, and Packable Wireless Charging Fiber Supercapacitor
Authors: Gao Chang , Liu Jiajia , Han Yuxin , Chen Rui , Huang Jiancheng , Gu Yuyang , Zhao Yang , Qu Liangti
Published: October 2024

Wireless charging energy storage devices eliminate bulky wires of wearable electronics. However, rigid shape and specific charging energy restrict their applications in space‐limited portable electronics. Herein, an all‐carbon fiber supercapacitor is presented that features shape‐adjustable, packable, and energy‐controllable wireless charging functions. With the unique on‐dimensional circuit structure, the maximum energy transfer efficiency from the electrical energy received by the wireless charging unit to the output energy of the fiber supercapacitor can reach up to ≈60.8%, and meanwhile this integrated fiber device exhibits an outstanding area capacity of 803 mF cm−2 and energy density of 1004 µWh cm−2, superior to most of the fiber supercapacitors. Moreover, this unique device can endure significant deformation in shape of circles ranging from 2 to 20 cm diameter, and can be packed into narrow spaces, such as smart bracelet and disk‐shaped pet global positioning system (GPS). By altering the device shape, the wireless charging current, voltage, and power can be adjusted in the range of 0.5–20 mA, 1.4–15.5 V, and 0.003–313 mW, accommodating the energy requirements for nearly all existing micro‐electronics. This work offers unprecedented opportunities for packable, space‐confined and energy harvesting controllable wearable electronics.
Recent Advances in the Electrochemical Functionalization of Imidazoheterocycles
Authors: Li Sifeng
Published: October 2024

Imidazoheterocycles have extensive applications in the pharmaceutical industry and agrochemicals. A comprehensive overview has been provided on the current advancements in the electrochemical functionalization of imidazo‐fused heterocycles, which have been classified into ten different types of reactions. Electrochemical synthesis has emerged as a highly effective method for producing organic molecules, especially in the context of sustainable development. Employing electrons as the traceless oxidant, several C−H functionalization reactions of imidazo‐fused heterocycles have been achieved at either the C3 or C5 positions. Electrons may serve as the reducing agent to synthesize pyridine rings that are either partially or fully saturated in imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines. The purpose of the review is to attract the interest of the scientific community and promote additional research on the functionalization of imidazoheterocycles using electrochemical methods.
Efficacy of Phthalocyanine‐Based Catalysts in Electrochemical Sensors: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: C P Keshavananda Prabhu , Aralekallu Shambhulinga , Koodlur Sannegowda Lokesh
Published: October 2024

Metal phthalocyanines (MPcs) are promising materials for electrochemical sensing due to their physicochemical properties, including redox activity, structural versatility, and chemical stability. These materials can incorporate various metals into their central core, ensuring tunable catalytic activity and enhanced sensitivity and selectivity. This makes MPcs valuable for designing advanced electrochemical sensors, which require precise and reliable performance for applications ranging from environmental monitoring to biomedical diagnostics. This review discusses the advancements in MPc‐based catalysts for electrochemical sensors, focusing on their superior catalytic properties, stability under diverse operating conditions, and high functionalization potential. The unique redox behavior of the metal center in MPcs ensures improved detection capabilities of analytes like biomolecules, heavy metal ions, and environmental pollutants, positioning MPc materials as a cornerstone in future sensor technology. MPc‐based sensors have diverse applications across various fields, including environmental sensing, medical diagnostics, and industrial process monitoring. Recent reports highlight the practical relevance and growing importance of MPcs in real‐world applications. Challenges associated with MPc‐based sensors include scalability, environmental stability, and integration into practical devices. The review concludes with a discussion on the future outlook on MPcs in the design and development of next‐generation electrochemical sensors, paving the way for more efficient, cost‐effective, and reliable detection technologies.