bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collecting and processing of barometric data from smartphones for potential use in numerical weather prediction data assimilation
Authors: Hintz Kasper S. , Vedel Henrik , Kaas Eigil
Published: May 2019

The potential for use of crowd‐sourced data in the atmospheric sciences is vastly expanding, including observations from smartphones with barometric sensors. Smartphone pressure observations can potentially help improve numerical weather prediction and aid forecasters. In this contribution a method of collecting data from smartphones is presented, other methods are discussed and guidelines are derived from the experience. Quality control is vital when using crowd‐sourced data. Screening methods aimed at smartphone pressure observations are presented. Results from previous studies, showing a substantial but long‐term stable bias in combination with high relative accuracy, are confirmed. The collection of Danish smartphone pressure observations has been very successful, with over 6 million observations during a 7 week period. Case studies show that distinct weather patterns can be seen in unprocessed data. The screening method developed reduces the observational noise but filters out the majority of observations. Assimilating smartphone pressure observations in a single case study, using the 3D variational data assimilation system of the HARMONIE numerical weather prediction system, proved to decrease the bias of surface pressure in the model without increasing the root mean square error and the skill of accumulated precipitation increased. It is found that the altitude assignment of smartphones needs improvement.
miR‐584‐5p regulates hepatocellular carcinoma cell migration and invasion through targeting KCNE2
Authors: Wei Huamei , Wang Jianchu , Xu Zuoming , Lu Yuan , Wu Xianjian , Zhuo Chenyi , Tan Chuan , Tang Qianli , Pu Jian
Published: May 2019

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancer type. This study was aimed to investigate the role of microRNA‐584‐5p (miR‐584‐5p) in regulating HCC progression.

Methods

The expression of miR‐584‐5p in HCC cell lines was analyzed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Effects of miR‐584‐5p depletion on HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro were analyzed by cell counting kit‐8 assay, wound‐healing assay, and transwell invasion assay. miR‐584‐5p targeting potassium voltage‐gated channel subfamily E regulatory subunit 2 (KCNE2) was identified using bioinformatics algorithm and dual‐luciferase activity reporter assay. Kaplan–Meier Plotter website was used to investigate the effect of miR‐584‐5p or KCNE2 expression on the overall survival of HCC patients.

Results

In vitro functional assays showed miR‐584‐5p depletion decreased HCC cell proliferation, cell migration, and cell invasion. Moreover, miR‐584‐5p functions by directly targeting KCNE2, and it in turn, mediates the effects of miR‐584‐5p on HCC cell behaviors.

Conclusions

These results demonstrated that miR‐584‐5p functions as an oncogenic miRNA in HCC.
Analysis of deletional hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin/δβ‐thalassemia and δ‐globin gene mutations in Southerwestern China
Authors: Zhang Jie , Yang Yang , Li Peng , Yan Yuanlong , Lv Tao , Zhao Tingting , Zeng Xiaohong , Li Dongmei , Zhou Xiaoyan , Chen Hong , Su Jie , Yang Tonghua , He Jing , Zhu Baosheng
Published: May 2019

Background

Deletional hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH)/δβ‐thalassemia and δ‐thalassemia are rare inherited disorders which may complicate the diagnosis of β‐thalassemia. The aim of this study was to reveal the frequency of these two disorders in Southwestern China.

Methods

A total of 33,596 subjects were enrolled for deletional HPFH/δβ‐thalassemia, and positive individuals with high fetal hemoglobin (Hb F) level were diagnosed by multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA). A total of 17,834 subjects were analyzed for mutations in the δ‐globin gene. Positive samples with low Hb A2 levels were confirmed by δ‐globin gene sequencing. Furthermore, the pathogenicity and construction of a selected δ‐globin mutation were analyzed.

Results

A total of 92 suspected cases with Hb F ≥5.0% were further characterized by MLPA. Eight different deletional HPFH/δβ‐thalassemia were observed at a frequency of 0.024%. In addition, 195 cases suspected to have a δ‐globin gene mutation (Hb A2 ≤2.0%) were characterized by molecular analysis. δ‐Globin gene mutation was found at a frequency of 0.49% in Yunnan. The pathogenicity and construction for a selected δ‐globin mutation was predicted.

Conclusion

Screening of these two disorders was analyzed in Southwestern China, which could define the molecular basis of these conditions in this population.
Microsurgical mandibular reconstruction using a resin surgical guide combined with a metal reconstructive plate
Authors: Nuri Takashi , Ueda Koichi , Iwanaga Hiroyuki , Otsuki Yuki , Nakajima Yoichiro , Ueno Takaaki , Kawata Ryo
Published: May 2019

Introduction

In mandibular reconstruction, repositioning the mandibular position is still challenging and time consuming. We invented a new re‐positioning technique using a resin plate combined with a reconstructive plate in reconstructing the mandible with an osteocutaneous free flap. The purpose of this report is to introduce this technique and evaluate the accuracy of mandibular reconstruction using free flaps. We hypothesized that this technique is precise and can reduce intraoperative plate bending at a low cost and short preparation period.

Methods

Mandibular reconstruction was successfully performed in a total of 10 cases without any complications. In this technique, a pre‐bent reconstructive plate was prepared in accordance with a three‐dimensional model, and then coated with resin. Intraoperatively, the mandibles were secured by fitting these plates snugly and fixing them using a reconstructive plate. Then the resin was removed and free osteocutaneous free flaps were transfer to the defect. Ten patients with a mean age of 68.2 who underwent mandibular resection for aggressive benign (n = 1) or malignant disease (n = 9) were reconstructed using this technique. Seven cases were reconstructed using fibular osteocutaneous free flaps, while scapular osteocutaneous free flaps were used in the remaining cases. The resections entailed: unilateral symphysis and lateral body in four cases, angle to ipsilateral angle in two, ramus to symphysis in two, and lateral body plus angle to symphysis in one case. The deviation of the mandible was evaluated by measuring the preoperative versus postoperative differences in the distances between six bilateral landmarks.

Results

There were no complications and flap failure in any of the 10 cases. No further intraoperative plate bending was required. One case underwent additional mucosal resection due to recurrence of cancer. Three cases were referred to postoperative chemoradiotherapy. Two patients expired during follow‐up due to recurrence of cancer. Six cases were put back on a normal diet. The other cases who lacked opposing teeth had to remain on a soft diet. The mean follow‐up period was 46.2 months. The average of the absolute deviation values was 1.45 mm. This value was 0.94 mm in six cases with mandibular body defects and 2.26 mm in four cases with mandibular defects involving the ramus.

Conclusions

The present novel technique is simple, quick to prepare, and accurate. This technique can be a viable option for microsurgical mandibular reconstruction.
Network Accelerated Motion Estimation and Reduction (NAMER): Convolutional neural network guided retrospective motion correction using a separable motion model
Authors: Haskell Melissa W. , Cauley Stephen F. , Bilgic Berkin , Hossbach Julian , Splitthoff Daniel N. , Pfeuffer Josef , Setsompop Kawin , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

We introduce and validate a scalable retrospective motion correction technique for brain imaging that incorporates a machine learning component into a model‐based motion minimization.

Methods

A convolutional neural network (CNN) trained to remove motion artifacts from 2D T2‐weighted rapid acquisition with refocused echoes (RARE) images is introduced into a model‐based data‐consistency optimization to jointly search for 2D motion parameters and the uncorrupted image. Our separable motion model allows for efficient intrashot (line‐by‐line) motion correction of highly corrupted shots, as opposed to previous methods which do not scale well with this refinement of the motion model. Final image generation incorporates the motion parameters within a model‐based image reconstruction. The method is tested in simulations and in vivo motion experiments of in‐plane motion corruption.

Results

While the convolutional neural network alone provides some motion mitigation (at the expense of introduced blurring), allowing it to guide the iterative joint‐optimization both improves the search convergence and renders the joint‐optimization separable. This enables rapid mitigation within shots in addition to between shots. For 2D in‐plane motion correction experiments, the result is a significant reduction of both image space root mean square error in simulations, and a reduction of motion artifacts in the in vivo motion tests.

Conclusion

The separability and convergence improvements afforded by the combined convolutional neural network+model‐based method shows the potential for meaningful postacquisition motion mitigation in clinical MRI.
Rohstoffe: Phosphor zurückgewinnen
Authors: Krämer Jana , Frank Daniel , Bertau Martin , Fröhlich Peter
Published: May 2019

Um einen P‐Kreislauf in Deutschland zu erreichen, gibt es verschiedene Möglichkeiten, Klärschlamm aufzubereiten. Welche Verfahren sich durchsetzen, hängt von den Märkten ab.
Bilanz 2018: Dowdupont
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: May 2019

Dowdupont zeigt sich zufrieden mit dem vergangenen Jahr und bereitet sich nach Umstrukturierungen auf die Trennung vor.
Bilanz 2018: Clariant
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: May 2019

Das Schweizer Spezialchemieunternehmen Clariant erhöhte im Jahr 2018 den Umsatz durch Volumenzuwächse und höhere Preise.
Bilanz 2018: Covestro
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: May 2019

Bei Covestro nahmen im vergangenen Jahr die Umsätze und verkauften Mengen zu. Am stärksten wuchs das Polycarbonat‐Segment.
Siebte Carnival Conference Session (CCS‐2019)
Authors: Diaz Hernandez Dolores , Disch Sabrina , Klußmann Martin , Schlörer Nils , Prechtl Martin , Strub Erik
Published: May 2019

Zum siebten Mal fand in diesem Jahr am Department Chemie der Universität Köln die Carnival Conference Session statt, traditionell am Mittwoch vor Karneval. Konzept der CCS: Auf Einladung der Nachwuchsgruppen des Departments halten Nachwuchswissenschaftler Vorträge, die die ganze Breite der Chemie widerspiegeln und sich sowohl an Arbeitsgruppen als auch an Studierende richten. Etwa 50 Teilnehmer lauschten den Vorträgen und diskutierten nicht nur bei der Postersession, sondern auch nach Abschluss des offiziellen Programms.
Lebendig und relevant in allen Bereichen
Authors: Urmann Matthias
Published: May 2019

Wofür steht die GDCh – und was will sie in Zukunft sein? Um diese Fragen zu klären, hat ein Strategieentwicklungsteam aus Vorstands‐, Geschäftsstellen‐ und weiteren engagierten Mitgliedern Leitlinien für die künftige Entwicklung erarbeitet.
Studie Pflanzenschutzmittel
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: May 2019

Politik und Behörden sollen die Situation der Ökosysteme stärker berücksichtigen und das Zulassungsverfahren für Pflanzenschutzmittel anpassen.
Empathy levels among nursing students: A comparative cross‐sectional study
Authors: Håkansson Eklund Jakob , Holmström Inger K. , Ollén Lindqvist Anna , Sundler Annelie J. , Hochwälder Jacek , Marmstål Hammar Lena
Published: May 2019

Aim

Empathy is a crucial component of the nurse–patient relationship, but knowledge is lacking as to when empathy develops during nursing education. The aim of the present study was to compare empathy levels at different stages of undergraduate nursing education and different master's nursing programmes.

Design

The design was a comparative cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A total of 329 participants in Sweden, comprised of nursing students in their second and sixth semesters in an undergraduate nursing programme as well as master's nursing students, rated their own empathy using the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy.

Results

Students in their sixth semester in an undergraduate nursing programme expressed more empathy than did students in their second semester and master's nursing students. Among the five master's programmes, public‐health nursing students expressed the most empathy and intensive‐care nursing students the least.
Professional vulnerability in mental healthcare contexts: A focus group study of milieu‐therapists’ experiences
Authors: Bachmann Liv , Michaelsen Ragnhild , Vatne Solfrid
Published: May 2019

Aims and objectives

To gain insight into how the workplace influences milieu‐therapists’ vulnerability in the mental healthcare context.

Background

Mental health services have experienced substantial changes. Reduced institutional treatment capacity is replacing the development of locally based treatment. Changes in external conditions in mental health services have influenced the working conditions of nurses and milieu‐therapists.

Design

Qualitative design. The study complied with the COREQ checklist.

Methods

Focus group interviews.

Results

“Vulnerability due to unpredictable and threatening working context” was the common key theme that emerged in both contexts. Two key themes were different and opposite. In municipal mental health care, “Alone and unprotected” and in institutional care, “Together and protected.”

Conclusion

The participants from both specialized and community mental health care, experienced vulnerability at different levels interpreted as a contradictory relationship between the healthcare system and their own ideals of what professional practice ought to be.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study contributes to extended knowledge and understanding about the experienced influence of the working environment on professional vulnerability of nurses and milieu‐therapists` in mental health services. The impact of contextual conditions on health professionals’ working conditions has multi‐professional relevance for milieu‐therapists and managers of mental health services, and it is an important topic in health and social higher education.
Educational interventions on fever management in children: A scoping review
Authors: Arias Daniel , Chen Timothy F. , Moles Rebekah J.
Published: May 2019

Background

Numerous studies have been conducted specifically to target “fever phobia” and inappropriate fever management skills. However, despite educational intervention, caregivers continue to adopt inappropriate and non‐evidence‐based practices.

Aims

To collect and examine peer‐reviewed literature for active educational interventions aimed at improving fever management in children and profile them based on: who provided the training, training location, how the intervention was delivered, outcomes of training, and how it was measured.

Design

Scoping Review.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PubMED, PsycINFO, and IPA were searched from January 1980–December 2016. Study location, type of intervention, intervention target, study aim(s), sample size, instruments, outcome measures, and results were extracted.

Results

Thirty‐seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Most targeted parents with the remainder focused on healthcare professionals. The interventions and their outcome measures varied significantly from structured group training sessions to video interventions and many using a combination of methods. Most interventions reported a positive impact in outcomes such as knowledge, health service use, or fever management skills.

Conclusion

More standardized educational platforms targeted at both caregivers and healthcare professionals with appropriate evaluation methods should be developed and made widely available.
Safety, tolerability and efficacy of a novel self‐use biodegradable device for management of obesity
Authors: Shirin H. , Richter V. , Matalon S. , Abramowich D. , Maliar A. , Shachar E. , Moss S. F. , Broide E.
Published: May 2019

Objective

Obesity is a major public health issue with significant impact on quality of life, morbidity and mortality rates. It is estimated that if the current trends continue, 18% of men and 21% of women worldwide will be obese by 2025. All the current therapies are not optimal due to limited efficacy or safety; thus, there is a need for additional devices for the treatment of obesity. This study aimed to examine the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of a biodegradable encapsulated Epitomee device for weight loss. The technology is based on absorbent pharmaceuticals polymers and bonding materials that self‐expand in the stomach to create a pH‐sensitive super absorbent gel structure for weight loss.

Methods

A prospective, 12‐week twice daily use of the encapsulated device in patients with body mass index of 27–40 kg m−2. Efficacy endpoints were the percent total body weight loss (%TBWL), proportion of participants with 5% TBWL and changes in cardio‐metabolic markers. Safety analysis included evaluation of adverse events, laboratory and endoscopic findings.

Results

Overall, 52 patients completed the study. TBWL per intension‐to‐treat analysis was 3.68 ± 3.07% (3.23 ± 2.69 kg) and 4.52 ± 2.97% (3.95 ± 2.57 kg) per protocol. No device serious adverse effects reported. The most common adverse events were headache (18.1%), viral infection (11.5%), abdominal discomfort (10.1%), bloating (7.9%), nausea and constipation (5% each) and flatulence (4.3%). Endoscopy in 26 patients revealed mild, asymptomatic gastric/duodenal erythema without erosions in five patients.

Conclusions

Twelve weeks of Epitomee capsules treatment combined with lifestyle counselling resulted in 3.68–4.52% of TBWL. With continued research, the Epitomee capsules have considerable potential to become a non‐invasive, safe and effective treatment option for weight loss.
Investigation of microstructure, electrical behavior, and EMI shielding effectiveness of silicone rubber/carbon black/nanographite hybrid composites
Authors: Jeddi Javad , Katbab Ali Asghar , Mehranvari Mahsa
Published: May 2019

In this study, electrical properties and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) of composites based on room temperature vulcanizing silicone rubber (RTV‐SR) and hybrid conductive fillers (carbon black [CB]) and graphite nanoplate [GNP]) were studied. The role of GNP/CB ratio on developed conductive networks, electrical properties, as well as electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness of composites was investigated in comparison with SR/CB and SR/GNP composites. Dielectric properties of hybrid composites were controlled by the dominant filler phase. Nevertheless, all hybrid nanocomposites with a higher fraction of CB in GNP/CB hybrid systems showed a lower percolation threshold and higher EMI SE. The frequency dependency of the AC conductivity revealed tunneling conduction mechanism below the percolation threshold, while above the percolation threshold, the direct contact mechanism played the dominant role of transferring electrical current. EMI shielding measurements over X‐band frequency demonstrated absorption loss as the main mechanism for the attenuation of the incident EM wave intensity in hybrid composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:4056–4066, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Study oil/water separation property of PE foam and its improvement by in situ synthesis of zeolitic–imidazolate framework (ZIF‐8)
Authors: Chen Xiao Yuan , Wang Long , Nagamine Shinsuke , Ohshima Masahiro
Published: May 2019

Herein, the oil/water separation property of four polyethylene (PE) foams with two different volume expansion ratios including 15 and 30 times was studied. We found that the PE‐30‐1 foam was the best absorbent materials among these four samples, which was also superior to the commercially available products. It demonstrated high oil absorption capacities, as well as high oil/water selectivity, which was due to its small average pore size and high porosity. In addition, this work also reports two rapid and straightforward methods to fabricate PE‐30‐1‐ZIF‐8 composite with enhanced compressive property, an encouraging absorption capacity for different organic solvents, reaching 59 times of its own weight for chloroform, as well as increased oil–water selectivity of the system. Comparing with the PE foam, the organic solvent absorption capacities for PE‐ZIF‐8‐sono composite foams were improved by 6.4%, 29%, 9.1%, and 12% for chloroform, acetone, toluene and oleic acid, respectively, while the corresponding improvement for PE‐ZIF‐8‐Me(OH) was about 7.5%, 28%, 14%, and 15%, respectively. These PE‐ZIF‐8 foams could reach the requirement for oil spill cleanup, suggesting its great potential for this type of application. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1354–1361 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Nonlinear vibration and modal analysis of FG nanocomposite sandwich beams reinforced by aggregated CNTs
Authors: Pourasghar Amin , Chen Zengtao
Published: May 2019

In the present work, by considering the aggregation effect of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT), the nonlinear vibration of functionally graded (FG) nanocomposite sandwich Timoshenko beams resting on Pasternak foundation are presented. The material properties of the FG nanocomposite sandwich beam are estimated using the Eshelby–Mori–Tanaka approach and differential quadrature method (DQM) is used to obtain natural frequency. The nonlinear governing equations and boundary conditions are derived using the Hamilton principle and von Kármán geometric nonlinearity. The higher order nonlinear governing equations and boundary conditions are calculated using the Hamilton principle. A direct iterative method is employed to determine the nonlinear frequencies and mode shapes of the beams. It is shown that the mechanical properties and therefore vibration of functionally graded carbon nanotube reinforced (FG‐CNTR) sandwich beams are severely affected by CNTs aggregation. A detailed parametric study is carried out to investigate the influences of Winkler foundation modulus, shear elastic foundation modulus, length to span ratio, thicknesses of face sheets on the nonlinear vibration of the structure. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1362–1370 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Implementation of a Stewardship Initiative on Respiratory Viral PCR‐based Antibiotic Deescalation
Authors: Srinivas Pavithra , Rivard Kaitlyn R. , Pallotta Andrea M. , Athans Vasilios , Martinez Kristin , Loutzenheiser Samantha , Lam Simon W. , Procop Gary W. , Richter Sandra S. , Neuner Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2019

Objective

Respiratory viral polymerase chain reaction (RV PCR) tests assist in rapidly identifying viral pathogens and differentiating viral versus bacterial causes of pneumonia. Studies evaluating the use of RV PCR tests on antibiotic use in adults have demonstrated mixed results. We implemented an antimicrobial stewardship (ASP) intervention for patients with a positive RV PCR test result who were receiving broad‐spectrum antibiotics and aimed to assess the impact on antibiotic usage.

Methods

Retrospective quasi‐experimental study of adult hospitalized patients comparing time to antibiotic deescalation, duration of antibiotic therapy, and antiviral use preintervention (January–March 2016) and postintervention (January–March 2017).

Results

Of 172 ASP alerts reviewed, 55 (32%) were considered actionable. Of these, 47% of interventions were accepted. No significant difference was observed in median time to antibiotic deescalation (pre: 2.7 days vs post: 2.3 days, p=0.88). Time to discontinuation of antimicrobial therapy pre‐ and postintervention was reduced from 4 to 1.9 days (p=0.057) for piperacillin‐tazobactam, from 2.7 to 1.8 days (p=0.75) for ceftriaxone, and from 3.6 to 2 days (p=0.4) for levofloxacin, respectively. Time to initiation of oseltamivir for influenza was significantly shorter in the postintervention group (pre: 11.3 hrs vs post: 3.6 hrs, p=0.02).

Conclusion

A third of patients receiving broad‐spectrum antibiotics with a positive RV PCR had an opportunity for antimicrobial optimization, although this did not translate into a significant impact on the time to antibiotic deescalation or overall antibiotic use. Combination of RV PCR results with biomarkers to rule out bacterial coinfections and chest radiographic findings may help enhance the likelihood of accepted antibiotic deescalation recommendations and represents an area of future research.
Sonne statt Flaute
Authors: Kleidon Axel
Published: May 2019

Die Energiewende hat zum Ziel, den Energiebedarf Deutschlands komplett aus erneuerbaren Energiequellen zu decken. Ist das innerhalb des Landes möglich? Im Prinzip ja, zeigen Abschätzungen. Der Schlüssel ist die direkte Nutzung der Solarenergie, denn sie liefert mehr als genug erneuerbare Energie. Erneuerbare Energiequellen wie Wind, Wasserkraft oder Biomasse entstehen aus der Solarstrahlung über Umwandlungsketten mit oft geringen Wirkungsgraden. Ihre Potenziale sind entsprechend niedriger, besonders ineffizient ist die Biomasse. Auch der große Beitrag des Winds in derzeitigen Zukunftsszenarien der Energiewende ist kritisch zu bewerten. Die Nutzungsgrenzen der Windenergie werden wahrscheinlich bereits innerhalb dieser Szenarien überschritten. Da Solarenergie aber jahreszeitlich stark schwankt, sind effiziente Energiespeicher oder der Schritt über die Grenzen Deutschlands hinaus notwendig. Dann gelingt die Wende zu 100 % erneuerbarer Energie.
Eine Diode für Magnetfelder
Authors: Maurer Patrick , Romero‐Isart Oriol , Kirchmair Gerhard , Prat‐Camps Jordi
Published: May 2019

Elektrische Halbleiterdioden sind ein Grundbaustein für alle Prozessoren oder Leuchtdioden. Deshalb findet man Dioden heutzutage in fast allen elektrischen Geräten. Sie fungieren als elektrische Einbahnstraßen, da sie den Stromfluss in eine Richtung zulassen und in die andere Richtung unterbinden. In vielen elektronischen Bausteinen spielen auch Magnetfelder eine zentrale Rolle. Unserem Forschungsteam, bestehend aus Physikern der Universität Innsbruck, dem Institut für Quantenoptik und Quanteninformation der Österreichischen Akademie der Wissenschaften, Innsbruck und einem Wissenschaftler aus Sussex, ist es gelungen, eine Diode für Magnetfelder zu entwickeln und im Labor zu testen. Eine solche Diode könnte eine effizientere drahtlose Energieübertragung ermöglichen.
In Silico Methods for Development of Generic Drug–Device Combination Orally Inhaled Drug Products
Authors: Walenga Ross L. , Babiskin Andrew H. , Zhao Liang
Published: May 2019

The development of generic, single‐entity, drug–device combination products for orally inhaled drug products is challenging in part because of the complex nature of device design characteristics and the difficulties associated with establishing bioequivalence for a locally acting drug product delivered to the site of action in the lung. This review examines in silico models that may be used to support the development of generic orally inhaled drug products and how model credibility may be assessed.
Photonic Synapses for Ultrahigh‐Speed Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Zhuge Xia , Wang Jingrui , Zhuge Fei
Published: May 2019

Neuromorphic computing based on a non‐von Neumann architecture is a promising way for the efficient implementation of artificial intelligence. A neuromorphic computing system is mainly composed of artificial synapses and neurons. Various electronic neuromorphic devices have been developed by different technologies. Neuromorphic photonics combines the efficiency of neural networks and the speed of photonics to build computing systems. Compared with their electronic counterparts, photonic neurons and synapses have the potential advantages of ultrafast operation speed, large bandwidth, and no electrical interconnect power loss, inherent to the computing by optical means. Therefore, photonic neuromorphic devices are attracting more and more attention. This work reviews the recent advances in the development of photonic synapses. Both purely photonic synapses and photoelectric synapses are described. Their structures and working mechanisms are discussed in detail.
Inverse Design of Photonic Topological Insulators with Extra‐Wide Bandgaps
Authors: Chen Yafeng , Meng Fei , Jia Baohua , Li Guangyao , Huang Xiaodong
Published: May 2019

An intelligent approach for inversely designing topological photonic crystals (PCs) with time‐reversal symmetry (TRS) at any desired frequency is presented. By accurately controlling the frequencies of dipolar and quadrupolar modes, PCs with double Dirac cones and their band inversion are successfully realized through topology optimization. Novel patterns for topological trivial and nontrivial PCs with extra‐wide bandgaps are created for the realization of spin‐locked unidirectional propagation and robust transport of topological edge states. The systematic design reveals the evolution of the geometry of dielectric materials within unit cells of topological trivial and nontrivial PCs from low to high frequencies. Finally, the geometric rules of topological trivial and nontrivial PCs are extracted and analyzed for the ease of design and fabrication.
Broad Phase Transition of Fluorite‐Structured Ferroelectrics for Large Electrocaloric Effect
Authors: Park Min Hyuk , Mikolajick Thomas , Schroeder Uwe , Hwang Cheol Seong
Published: May 2019

Field‐induced ferroelectricity in (doped) hafnia and zirconia has attracted increasing interest in energy‐related applications, including energy harvesting and solid‐state cooling. It shows a larger isothermal entropy change in a much wider temperature range compared with those of other promising candidates. The field‐induced phase transition occurs in an extremely wide temperature range, which contributes to the giant electrocaloric effect. This article examines the possible origins of a large isothermal entropy change, which can be related to the extremely broad phase transitions in fluorite‐structured ferroelectrics. While the materials possess a high entropy change associated with the polar–nonpolar phase transition, which can contribute to the high energy performance, the higher breakdown field compared with perovskites practically determines the available temperature range.
Weak‐ and strong‐friction limits of parcel models: Comparisons and stochastic convective initiation time
Authors: Hernandez‐Duenas Gerardo , Smith Leslie M. , Stechmann Samuel N.
Published: May 2019

For moist convection, models of individual parcel dynamics are valuable for their simple formulation and predictions of cloud properties. Here, two limiting idealized cases of parcel theory are investigated: the weak‐ and strong‐friction limits. The weak‐friction limit is a traditional limit with no momentum drag and the dynamics are a Hamiltonian system for the parcel's height and vertical velocity. A strong‐friction limit is derived and studied here and its limiting form involves a balance between frictional drag and buoyancy, which provides a differential equation for parcel height as a function of time. In the two limiting regimes, analytical formulas are presented and compared for quantities such as maximum vertical velocity and cloud‐top height. For example, in the strong‐friction limit, the cloud‐top height coincides with the level of neutral buoyancy (LNB), whereas in the weak‐friction limit the cloud‐top height is far above the LNB. This comparison suggests that the strong‐friction limit may provide more realistic predictions of some averaged cloud properties. In general, since frictional effects and individual parcel properties can vary even within a single cloud, the predictions of the weak‐ and strong‐friction limits can be viewed as upper and lower bounds for the behavior of more realistic finite‐friction scenarios. Finally, in a stochastic version of the parcel model, in the strong‐friction limit, analytical formulas are derived for convective initiation time. Applications to convective parametrizations are discussed; for example, the formulas for convective initiation time could be applied as stochastic convective triggers.
Kinematic analysis and navigation method of a cable‐driven continuum robot used for minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Qi Fei , Ju Feng , Bai Dongming , Wang Yaoyao , Chen Bai
Published: May 2019

Background

Due to the outstanding compliance and dexterity, continuum robot have great advantages in confined space applications, especially in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). However, the vascular environment is complicated and tortuous, it is necessary to preoperative motion planning and navigation for a continuum robot.

Methods

A cable‐driven continuum robot is proposed, and the mapping relationship among the driven space, joint space and task space, as well as the decoupling algorithm are analyzed based on piecewise constant curvature assumption. Moreover, a navigation method is presented to achieve semi‐autonomous interventional surgery based on the vascular constraints by using the backbone cure method.

Results

Finally, by using the prototype, the interventional simulations and experiments for a simulated glass blood vessel are developed to validate the feasibility and maneuverability of the proposed model and navigation method.

Conclusions

The established motion model and navigation method can be used as a motion control and navigation reference.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Co(OH)2‐ and/or Co3O4‐Decorated Cobalt‐Doped ZnO Nanorod Arrays and Their Potential as (Photo‐)Anode Materials
Authors: Kegel Jan , Laffir Fathima , Povey Ian M. , Pemble Martyn E.
Published: May 2019

Metal oxides like zinc oxide (ZnO) are particularly promising materials to be used in core technologies for the generation and storage of clean energy such as batteries, photovoltaics or solar fuel production and solar water splitting. The deposition of the electrode materials used in these applications should be as cost effective as possible, while maintaining good device characteristics. Here, a simple low‐temperature solution‐based deposition method is reported that allows for the growth of high surface area, cobalt‐doped ZnO nanorod‐arrays decorated with cobaltic over‐coatings. Control over the visible light absorption and the nature of the cobaltic over‐coating (e. g. Co(OH)2 and/or Co3O4) can be achieved by changing the growth parameters during the one‐pot synthesis. Focusing on the evaluation of the underlying growth principles and resulting material properties, the study discusses the crucial role of the organic growth modifier used (monoethanolamine) as a complexing‐, growth‐directing‐ and reducing agent. Furthermore, the (solar driven) oxidation of water is taken as an example reaction in order to gain further insight into the functionality of the structures. Accounting for the temperature dependent breakdown of metal‐amine complexes, a two‐stage growth mechanism is proposed that will allow the optimization of the resulting structures for individual applications, but which could also prove valuable for other metal‐oxide/hydroxide material combinations.
Preciously Determining Energy Levels and Screening Extraction Medium to Design Highly Efficient Carriers Transport Pathways for Zn‐CuInS2 Quantum Dots Based H2 Generation Application
Authors: Sheng Pengtao , Zhang Zhiwei , Yao Lu , Geng Hongchao , Zhou Panke , Cao Kesheng , Li Weili
Published: May 2019

With the creation of long‐lived defect states‐related donor‐acceptor pair (DAP) recombination pathway, the Zn doped CuInS2 quantum dots (CIZS QDs) sensitized TiO2 photoelectrode displayed a good photocurrent response ability with a density of 2.7 mA/cm2. Further introduction Au nanoparticles (NPs) between CIZS and TiO2, and the outermost layer CdS, the photocurrent of CdS‐CIZS−Au‐TiO2 reached 7.5 mA/cm2 with an increase of 75% and 175%, respectively. The enhancements both in photo‐conversion ability and photoelectrochemical hydrogen generation reactivity can be mainly attributed to the functions of Au NPs acting as electron traps to help separate the long‐lived carriers of CIZS QDs and subsequently improve interfacial charge transfer, as well as CdS's ability to enhance holes extraction.
Ceria‐Nanoparticles‐Based Microfluidic Nanobiochip Electrochemical Sensor for the Detection of Ochratoxin‐A
Authors: Dhiman Tarun K. , Lakshmi GBVS , Roychoudhury Appan , Jha Sandeep K. , Solanki Pratima R.
Published: May 2019

Ochratoxin‐A (OTA) is a fungal mycotoxin that is present in most of the food stuff, and shows adverse effects on human beings. Therefore, the rapid and accurate detection of OTA is necessary. Here, ceria nanoparticles based microfluidic nanobiochip was fabricated for the electrochemical detection of OTA. Ceria nanoparticles were synthesized using a chemical co‐precipitation method and characterized by various techniques. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the formation of fluorite cubic structure. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) exhibited the formation of very small size (4‐5 nm) with nearly spherical shape nanoparticles. Microfluidic nanobiochip was fabricated using 300 μm microfluidic channel using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Simultaneously, indium tin oxide (ITO) coated Corning glass was used for the fabrication of immunoelectrodes platform using antibodies (anti‐OTA) for the OTA detection. The detection range was achieved from 350 pg ml−1 to 10 ng ml−1 with sensitivity of 7.5 μA ng−1 mL cm−2, without any interference effect using differential pulse voltammetry.
Electrochemical Processes with a Chambered Dual‐Anode Design for Enhanced Removal of Dichlorophenol in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Hu Yue , Mao Xuhui , Cui Jiaxin , Xiong Lili , Yin Panji , Zhou Shoubin , Wang Xu
Published: May 2019

This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 51778505), and the international cooperative grant from the Hubei Province (2018AHB016), and the R&D fund from the department of science and technology of Guangdong province (2017B090901029).
Conjugation of Different Aflatoxin Derivatives to Proteins and Their Use as Heterologous Antigens in Immunoassay Development
Authors: Ertekin Özlem , Kocaağa Harun , Öztürk Selma
Published: May 2019

Analysis of small molecule contaminants using biochemical methods like ELISA or biosensors often require their conjugation to a bigger molecule. Protein conjugates of aflatoxins (AFs), potent carcinogenic mycotoxins, are widely used in antibody and analytical assay development. There are more than 20 naturally occurring AF derivatives four of which are regulated by international authorities. AFB1, the most abundant AF derivative, is also the most commonly utilized one in protein conjugation reactions. In this study, we demonstrated that the use of different AF derivatives can is an aid for modifying the conjugation efficacy to obtain optimal hapten densities. With a Mannich‐type reaction scheme, AFG1 and AFG2 conjugates showed more than 3‐fold higher hapten densities compared with AFB1 and AFB2 conjugates. We also showed that the use of heterologous antigens in AF immunoassay development decreases the production costs without affecting assay sensitivity.
Synthetic Strategies and Cascade Reactions of 2‐Cyanobenzophenones for the Access to Diverse 3,3‐Disubstituted Isoindolinones and 3‐Aryl‐3‐Hydroxyisoindolinones
Authors: Di Mola Antonia , Macchia Antonio , Tedesco Consiglia , Pierri Giovanni , Palombi Laura , Filosa Rosanna , Massa Antonio
Published: May 2019

Herein we report new methodologies for the synthesis of the challenging ketones 2‐cyanobenzophenones, based on Suzuki‐Miyaura type cross‐coupling reactions and very mild oxidation of 2‐benzylbenzonitriles. The investigation of the reactivity of the obtained ketones highlighted a very good electrophilicity in the presence of mild carbon‐ and hetero‐nucleophiles, allowing the synthesis of 3,3‐disubstituted isoindolin‐1‐ones. All the developed methodologies are highly efficient and tolerate combinations of functional groups present on both the aromatic rings.
Versuche zur Drucktragfähigkeit geschraubter Winkelprofile bei Variation der Lagerungsbedingungen
Authors: Kettler Markus , Unterweger Harald
Published: May 2019

In diesem Aufsatz werden der Versuchsaufbau und die Ergebnisse einer Versuchsreihe an geschraubten Winkelprofilen unter Druckbeanspruchung, bei Variation der Lagerungsbedingungen, präsentiert. Begleitend zu den Laborversuchen wurden Finite‐Elemente‐Berechnungen durchgeführt, deren Ergebnisse ebenfalls dargestellt werden. Insgesamt wurden 27 Versuchskörper mit Ein‐ und Zwei‐Schraubenanschlüssen getestet. Die Schrauben waren dabei entweder vorgespannt oder nur handfest angezogen. Es wurden folgende drei Lagerungsbedingungen der beidseitigen Anschlussbleche untersucht: (i) eingespannte Lagerung, (ii) Scharnierlagerung, bei der die Rotation um die zum angeschlossenen Winkelschenkel parallele Achse frei möglich ist, und (iii) gelenkige Lagerung. Zusätzlich zu den Ergebnissen der Traglastversuche werden begleitende Imperfektionsmessungen und Materialtests gezeigt. Abschließend werden die Ergebnisse der Versuche mit den numerischen Berechnungen und mit den Empfehlungen einschlägiger Normen verglichen.
Seismic evaluation of offshore wind turbine by geotechnical centrifuge test
Authors: Seong Jun‐Tae , Kim Dong‐soo
Published: May 2019

As offshore wind turbines are now planned to be installed at seismic activity areas around Asia in large numbers, understanding of the seismic behavior of offshore wind turbine has become essential to evade structural hazards due to earthquake. Although the seismic behavior of the structure is largely affected by soil‐foundation‐structure interaction (SFSI), there is only a few experimental data about this subject as conventional offshore wind turbines are mostly located in the area where earthquakes are scarce. Geotechnical centrifuge experiment can provide reliable experimental data for this subject as it can reproduce field stress condition of the soil and simulate earthquake motion in a scaled model test. In this research, three case studies using centrifuge model test were performed to evaluate the seismic behavior of offshore wind turbine during the earthquake and permanent deformation after the earthquake. The results were compared with conventional seismic evaluation methods. Monopile, Monopod, and Tripod foundations were chosen for the experiment. Peak acceleration and rotational displacement of the wind turbine for three cases were evaluated under various intensities of seismic loading applied by centrifuge‐mounted shaking table. Results were compared with conventional evaluation method for design acceleration and conventional rotational displacement criteria suggested in DNV‐OS‐J101.
Properties of dyons in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 theories at small charges
Authors: Chattopadhyaya Aradhita , David Justin R.
Published: May 2019

Abstract

We study three properties of 1/4 BPS dyons at small charges in string compactifications which preserve

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4 supersymmetry. We evaluate the non-trivial constant present in the one loop statistical entropy for

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4 compactifications of type IIB theory on K3 × T
2 orbifolded by an order ℤ
N
freely acting orbifold g′ including all CHL compactifications. This constant is trivial for the un-orbifolded model but we show that it contributes crucially to the entropy of low charge dyons in all the orbifold models. We then show that the meromorphic Jacobi form which captures the degeneracy of 1/4 BPS states for the first two non-trivial magnetic charges can be decomposed into an Appell-Lerch sum and a mock Jacobi form transforming under Γ0(N). This generalizes the earlier observation of Dabholkar-Murthy-Zagier to the orbifold models. Finally we study the sign of the Fourier coefficients of the inverse Siegel modular form which counts the index of 1/4 BPS dyons in

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4 models obtained by freely acting ℤ2 and ℤ3 orbifolds of type II theory compactified on T
6. We show that sign of the index for sufficiently low charges and ensuring that it counts single centered black holes, violates the positivity conjecture of Sen which indicates that these states posses non-trivial hair.
Symmetry protected topological phases and generalized cohomology
Authors: Gaiotto Davide , Johnson-Freyd Theo
Published: May 2019

Abstract

We discuss the classification of SPT phases in condensed matter systems. We review Kitaev’s argument that SPT phases are classified by a generalized cohomology theory, valued in the spectrum of gapped physical systems [20, 23]. We propose a concrete description of that spectrum and of the corresponding cohomology theory. We compare our proposal to pre-existing constructions in the literature.
Granulomatous Mastitis and Factors Associated with Recurrence: An 11‐Year Single‐Centre Study of 113 Patients in Singapore
Authors: Tan Qing Ting , Tay Samantha Piaoxue , Gudi Mihir Ananta , Nadkarni Nivedita Vikas , Lim Swee Ho , Chuwa Esther Wee Lee
Published: May 2019

Background

Granulomatous mastitis (GM) is an inflammatory breast disease of unknown aetiology. It poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges with myriad forms of clinical presentation, varying results to treatments and propensity to recur. This study aims to look at clinical and treatment factors that predispose to recurrence of GM.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of 113 patients in our unit with histologically proven GM from 2006 to 2016. Demographic, clinical, treatment and outcomes data were collected and analysed.

Results

Eighty‐nine patients were treated with antibiotics (78.8%), 79 (69.9%) with steroids and 23 (20.4%) patients underwent surgery. Twenty (17.7%) patients had recurrence. Patients who presented with inflammatory signs and symptoms had increased odds of having subsequent recurrence: skin changes (1.50), pain (2.00), fistula (4.39) and antibiotic treatment (6.65). Four patients (20%) with recurrence had positive bacterial cultures. All 4 grew Corynebacterium. Patients with Corynebacterium infection had a 2.64 times higher risk of recurrence. Surgery did not preclude recurrence. There was a 70% (7/10) penicillin resistance rate in our patients with positive cultures for Corynebacterium.

Conclusion

Initial presentation with inflammatory signs and symptoms may confer increased risk of recurrence, warranting closer monitoring. Corynebacterium infection may play a part as a causative factor and risk factor for recurrence. Non‐penicillin antibiotics should be considered as first‐line antibiotics for patients presenting with inflammatory changes. Further prospective studies with larger patient populations might reveal information on the aetiology of GM and result in the development of a more standardized and effective treatment regimen.