bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of thiazolidinediones in diabetes patients with renal impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Wen , Zhou Xu , Kwong Joey S. W. , Li Ling , Li Youping , Sun Xin
Published: May 2017

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TZDs in treatment of diabetes mellitus patients with renal impairment. We searched PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and case-control studies that investigated the effects of TZDs in patients with diabetes and renal impairment were eligible. Outcomes included glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose, serum lipids, and patient-important outcomes (i.e. hypoglycemia, weight, edema, cardiovascular events and mortality). 19 RCTs and 3 cohort studies involving 21,803 patients with diabetes and renal impairment were included. Meta-analysis of RCTs showed that TZDs could significantly reduce HbA1c (MD −0.64, 95%CI −0.93 to −0.35), FPG (MD −26.27, 95%CI −44.90 to −7.64) and increase HDL levels (MD 3.70, 95%CI 1.10, 6.29). TZDs could increase weight (MD 3.23, 95% CI 2.29 to 4.16) and risk of edema (RR 2.96, 95% CI 1.22 to 7.20). Their effects on risk of hypoglycemia (RR 1.46, 95% CI 0.65 to 3.29), heart failure (RR 0.64, 95% CI 0.15 to 2.66), angina (RR 1.45, 95% CI 0.23 to 8.95) and all-cause mortality (RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.08 to 2.01) are uncertain. Results from cohort studies were similar to RCTs.
Dephasing rates for weak localization and universal conductance fluctuations in two dimensional Si:P and Ge:P δ-layers
Authors: Shamim Saquib , Mahapatra S. , Scappucci G. , Klesse W. M. , Simmons M. Y. , Ghosh Arindam
Published: May 2017

We report quantum transport measurements on two dimensional (2D) Si:P and Ge:P δ-layers and compare the inelastic scattering rates relevant for weak localization (WL) and universal conductance fluctuations (UCF) for devices of various doping densities (0.3–2.5 × 1018 m−2) at low temperatures (0.3–4.2 K). The phase breaking rate extracted experimentally from measurements of WL correction to conductivity and UCF agree well with each other within the entire temperature range. This establishes that WL and UCF, being the outcome of quantum interference phenomena, are governed by the same dephasing rate.
Isotope fractionation associated with the simultaneous biodegradation of multiple nitrophenol isomers by Pseudomonas putida B2
Authors: Wijker Reto S. , Zeyer Josef , Hofstetter Thomas B.
Published: May 2017

Multi-element isotope fractionation reveals how contaminant mixtures are biodegraded simultaneously by reductase and oxygenase enzymes in the same microorganism.
Challenges in realizing a self-contained hydraulically-driven contractile fiber actuator
Authors: Smela Elisabeth
Published: May 2017

The field of soft robots would benefit from electrically controlled contractile actuators in the form of fibers that achieve a strain of 20% in less than a second while exerting high force. This work explores possible designs for achieving this goal using self-contained electroosmotic fluid pumping within a tube-shaped structure. The most promising configuration is a combination of a bellows and a McKibben-type muscle, since pumping fluid from the former to the latter results in contraction of both portions. Realizing such a device entails challenges in fabrication and electrokinetic fluid pumping in closed systems. Further studies of electroosmotic flow in salt-free organic solvents are needed.
Functionalization of silica gel with 5-hydroxymethylfurfural: preparation, characterization and preliminary verification
Authors: Wang Cheng , Huang Limin , Lin Yuanyuan , Li Youjia , Hou Yajing , Yang Liu , Sun Meng , He Huaizhen
Published: May 2017

Herein, we report the organic–inorganic hybrid composites comprising surficial-modified silica gel with 5-HMF as a solid phase for liquid chromatography.
Constraint randomised non-negative factor analysis (CRNNFA): an alternate chemometrics approach for analysing the biochemical data sets
Authors: Kumar Keshav , Cava Felipe
Published: May 2017

The present work introduces an alternate chemometrics approach constraint randomised non-negative factor analysis (CRNNFA) for analysing the bioanalytical data sets.
Impedimetric measurement of DNA–DNA hybridisation using microelectrodes with different radii for detection of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
Authors: Quan Li Poh , Piper Andrew , Schmueser Ilka , Mount Andrew R. , Corrigan Damion K.
Published: May 2017

Microelectrode radius plays a key role in determining the response and sensitivity for impedimetric measurements of DNA–DNA hybridisation.
Serum-resistant, reactive oxygen species (ROS)-potentiated gene delivery in cancer cells mediated by fluorinated, diselenide-crosslinked polyplexes
Authors: Deng Qiurong , Li Xudong , Zhu Lipeng , He Hua , Chen Donglai , Chen Yongbing , Yin Lichen
Published: May 2017

Fluorinated, diselenide-crosslinked polyplexes were developed to enable ROS-responsive and serum-resistant gene delivery in cancer cells.
Rapid assembly of the doubly-branched pentasaccharide domain of the immunoadjuvant jujuboside A via convergent B(C6F5)3-catalyzed glycosylation of sterically-hindered precursors
Authors: Karimov Rashad R. , Tan Derek S. , Gin David Y.
Published: May 2017

An efficient, convergent synthesis is achieved using optimized reaction conditions to overcome inherent complete α-selectivity in this challenging glycosylation reaction.
Thermal convection in electrochemical cells. Boundaries with heterogeneous thermal conductivity and implications for scanning electrochemical microscopy
Authors: Novev Javor K. , Compton Richard G.
Published: May 2017

Substrate heterogeneity influences the natural convective flows arising in electrochemical cells thermostated from below through a solid substrate.
From polyethylene waxes to HDPE using an α,α′-bis(arylimino)-2,3:5,6-bis(pentamethylene)pyridyl-chromium(iii) chloride pre-catalyst in ethylene polymerisation
Authors: Huang Chuanbing , Du Shizhen , Solan Gregory A. , Sun Yang , Sun Wen-Hua
Published: May 2017

Depending on the aluminium-alkyl co-catalyst employed, the title Cr(iii) chlorides can exhibit high catalytic activities in ethylene polymerization, producing either high molecular weight PE or linear PE waxes.
Electrochemical control of strong coupling states between localized surface plasmons and molecule excitons for Raman enhancement
Authors: Minamimoto Hiro , Kato Fumiya , Nagasawa Fumika , Takase Mai , Murakoshi Kei
Published: May 2017

The intensity of Raman scattering from dye molecules strongly coupled with localized surface plasmons of metal nanostructures was controlled by the electrochemical potential. Through in situ electrochemical extinction and surface-enhanced Raman scattering measurements, it is found that the redox state of the molecules affects the coupling strength, leading to the change in the intensity of the Raman scattering. Analysis of the Raman spectrum provides information on the molecules in strong coupling states showing effective enhancement of Raman scattering.
Non-pericyclic cycloaddition of gem-difluorosubstituted azomethine ylides to the CO bond: computational study and synthesis of fluorinated oxazole derivatives
Authors: Gaisina Karina R. , Khlebnikov Alexander F. , Novikov Mikhail S.
Published: May 2017

The cycloaddition of α,α,α-trifluoroacetophenones withgem-difluoro-substituted azomethine ylides, generated fromN-benzhydrylideneamines and difluorocarbenes, occurs regioselectively to give fluorinated oxazolidines.
N-Methylpyrrolidinium hydrogen tartrate (NMPHT): an above-room-temperature order–disorder molecular switchable dielectric material
Authors: Zeb Aurang , Khan Tariq , Asghar Muhammad Adnan , Sun Zhihua , Wu Zhenyue , Zhao Sangen , Luo Junhua
Published: May 2017

A new above-room-temperature molecular switchable dielectric material, which undergoes a first-order phase transition induced by the order-disorder transformation of cation, has been reported.
Na intercalation in Fe-MIL-100 for aqueous Na-ion batteries
Authors: Chavez James S. , Harrison Katharine L. , Sava Gallis Dorina F.
Published: May 2017

The electrochemical activity of Fe-MIL-100 in a Na aqueous electrolyte is greatly dependent on the binder additive, where the best performance is achieved with Nafion, owing to its hydrophilic and ion conducting nature.
Effects of rhamnolipids on the cell surface characteristics of Sphingomonas sp. GY2B and the biodegradation of phenanthrene
Authors: Lin Weijia , Liu Shasha , Tong Le , Zhang Yumei , Yang Jing , Liu Weiting , Guo Chuling , Xie Yingying , Lu Guining , Dang Zhi
Published: May 2017

The mechanism of the interaction of rhamnolipids on strain GY2B.
Photodegradable hydrogels for external manipulation of cellular microenvironments with real-time monitoring
Authors: Ji Hanxu , Xi Kai , Zhang Qiuhong , Jia Xudong
Published: May 2017

A designed hydrogel whose stiffness could not only be controlled but also monitored in situ by fluorescence.
Improved rate capability of a LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2/CNT/graphene hybrid material for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Li Xing , Zhao Xing , Wang Ming-Shan , Zhang Kang-Jia , Huang Yun , Qu Mei-Zhen , Yu Zuo-Long , Geng Dong-sheng , Zhao Wen-gao , Zheng Jian-ming
Published: May 2017

In this work, a LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2/CNT/Graphene (NCM/CNT/GN) hybrid material with 3D conductive network and excellent rate capability has been successfully prepared by a facile wet chemical method.
Correction: Design of triphenylamine appended anthracene derivatives: electro-polymerization and their electro-chromic behaviour
Authors: Chandra Santra Dines , Mondal Sanjoy , Malik Sudip
Published: May 2017

Correction for ‘Design of triphenylamine appended anthracene derivatives: electro-polymerization and their electro-chromic behaviour’ by Dines Chandra Santra et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 81597–81606.
Dialing in single-site reactivity of a supported calixarene-protected tetrairidium cluster catalyst
Authors: Palermo Andrew , Solovyov Andrew , Ertler Daniel , Okrut Alexander , Gates Bruce C. , Katz Alexander
Published: May 2017

A closed Ir4 carbonyl cluster, 1, comprising a tetrahedral metal frame and three tert-butyl-calix[4]arene(OPr)3(OCH2PPh2) (Ph = phenyl; Pr = propyl) ligands at the basal plane, was silica supported and consists of “*” and “S” sites, which could be dialed in selectively for controlling ethylene hydrogenation catalysis.
Surface-modified metal sulfides as stable H2-evolving photocatalysts in Z-scheme water splitting with a [Fe(CN)6]3−/4−redox mediator under visible-light irradiation
Authors: Shirakawa Takashi , Higashi Masanobu , Tomita Osamu , Abe Ryu
Published: May 2017

Z-scheme water splitting was achieved using K2[CdFe(CN)6]-modified metal sulfides as H2-evolving photocatalysts combined with CoOx-loaded TaON photoanode in the presence of [Fe(CN)6]3−/4−as an electron mediator.
Shape of a sessile drop on a flat surface covered with a liquid film
Authors: Tress Martin , Karpitschka Stefan , Papadopoulos Periklis , Snoeijer Jacco H. , Vollmer Doris , Butt Hans-Jürgen
Published: May 2017

The shape of a sessile drop on a flat surface covered with a liquid film is studied by means of laser scanning confocal microscopy, numerical solution of generalized Laplace equations as well as analytical approximations.
Low temperature solution processed indium oxide thin films with reliable photoelectrochemical stability for efficient and stable planar perovskite solar cells
Authors: Chen Peng , Yin Xingtian , Que Meidan , Liu Xiaobin , Que Wenxiu
Published: May 2017

Low temperature, solution processed indium oxide thin films act as the electron transport layer in planar perovskite solar cells (PSCs), which result in high efficiency and reliable stability.
Tuning the selectivity of light hydrocarbons in natural gas in a family of isoreticular MOFs
Authors: Grancha Thais , Mon Marta , Ferrando-Soria Jesús , Gascon Jorge , Seoane Beatriz , Ramos-Fernandez Enrique V. , Armentano Donatella , Pardo Emilio
Published: May 2017

The kinetic adsorption selectivity of methane versus other light hydrocarbons, present in natural gas, is tuned in a rationally synthesized family of isoreticular MOFs.
Constructing multifunctional MOF@rGO hydro-/aerogels by the self-assembly process for customized water remediation
Authors: Mao Jiajun , Ge Mingzheng , Huang Jianying , Lai Yuekun , Lin Changjian , Zhang Keqin , Meng Kai , Tang Yuxin
Published: May 2017

We first time report a general strategy for one-step fabrication of a ZIF-8 MOF/RGO hydrogel, with the synergistic effects of chemical reduction and cross-linking by metal ions.
Molecular porphyrinic freestanding buckypaper electrodes from carbon nanotubes for glucose fuel cells
Authors: Elouarzaki Kamal , Fisher Adrian C. , Lee Jong-Min
Published: May 2017

An original strategy for the design of free standing buckypapers using unique molecular catalysts was developed.
Low-temperature solution-processed NiOxfilms for air-stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Cao Jie , Yu Hui , Zhou Shuang , Qin Minchao , Lau Tsz-Ki , Lu Xinhui , Zhao Ni , Wong Ching-Ping
Published: May 2017

A new strategy is introduced to fabricate NiOxfilms over perovskite layers to achieve highly stable perovskite solar cells.
Nanosized core–shell structured graphene–MnO2nanosheet arrays as stable electrodes for superior supercapacitors
Authors: Jia He Nan , Lin Jing Huang , Liu Yu Lin , Chen Shu Lin , Cai Yi Fei , Qi Jun Lei , Feng Ji Cai , Fei Wei-Dong
Published: May 2017

Directly fabricating vertically standing graphene–manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoparticle hybrids as electrode materials remains a challenge, especially so without the use of organic binders.
Supramolecular polymerization-assisted synthesis of nitrogen and sulfur dual-doped porous graphene networks from petroleum coke as efficient metal-free electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Wu Mingbo , Liu Yang , Zhu Yulong , Lin Jin , Liu Jingyan , Hu Han , Wang Yang , Zhao Qingshan , Lv Renqing , Qiu Jieshan
Published: May 2017

Supramolecular polymerization-assisted synthesis of nitrogen and sulfur-codoped porous graphene networks (N,S-PGN) from petroleum coke as a remarkable electrocatalyst for the ORR.
New 3,3′-(ethane-1,2-diylidene)bis(indolin-2-one) (EBI)-based small molecule semiconductors for organic solar cells
Authors: Le Borgne Mylène , Quinn Jesse , Martin Jaime , Stingelin Natalie , Li Yuning , Wantz Guillaume
Published: May 2017

A series of donor–acceptor–donor (D–A–D) organic semiconductors, with 3,3′-(ethane-1,2-diylidene)bis(indolin-2-one) (EBI) as building block coupled with various end-capping moieties were synthesized and characterized for use in solar cells.
Thiophene and diketopyrrolopyrrole based conjugated polymers as efficient alternatives to spiro-OMeTAD in perovskite solar cells as hole transporting layers
Authors: Peng Shih-Hao , Huang Tzu-Wei , Gollavelli Ganesh , Hsu Chain-Shu
Published: May 2017

PQT, PBTTT, PDQT and PDBT-co-TT were used to replace spiro-OMeTAD as efficient hole transporting layers in perovskite solar cells.
Direct laser write process for 3D conductive carbon circuits in polyimide
Authors: Dorin Bryce , Parkinson Patrick , Scully Patricia
Published: May 2017

A laser fabrication process in commercial polymer films aimed at creating 3D conductive circuits shows promise for electrically contacting nano-structures.
Tunable defect engineering in TiON thin films by multi-step sputtering processes: from a Schottky diode to resistive switching memory
Authors: Su Teng-Yu , Huang Chi-Hsin , Shih Yu-Chuan , Wang Tsang-Hsuan , Medina Henry , Huang Jian-Shiou , Tsai Hsu-Sheng , Chueh Yu-Lun
Published: May 2017

The role of defect engineering is essential in resistive switching memory.
Tunable photoluminescence from layered rare-earth hydroxide/polymer nanocomposite hydrogels by a cascaded energy transfer effect
Authors: Wu Lianying , Gao Caiyan , Li Zhibo , Chen Guangming
Published: May 2017

Highly tunable photoluminescence has been achieved from layered rare-earth hydroxide (LGd0.5Tb0.5−xEuxH)/polymer nanocomposite hydrogels by a cascaded energy transfer effect.
Molecular dynamics study of thermal transport in a nitrogenated holey graphene bilayer
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Hong Yang , Ma Dongwei , Zhang Jingchao
Published: May 2017

Basal-plane thermal conductivity and cross-plane interfacial thermal resistance in a C2N bilayer structure are comprehensively investigated.
HIV-1 Tat potently stabilises Mdm2 and enhances viral replication
Authors: Raja Rameez , Ronsard Larance , Lata Sneh , Trivedi Shubhendu , Banerjea Akhil C.
Published: May 2017

Murine double minute 2 (Mdm2) is known to enhance the transactivation potential of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) Tat protein by causing its ubiquitination. However, the regulation of Mdm2 during HIV-1 infection and its implications for viral replication have not been well studied. Here, we show that the Mdm2 protein level increases during HIV-1 infection and this effect is mediated by HIV-1 Tat protein. Tat appears to stabilise Mdm2 at the post-translational level by inducing its phosphorylation at serine-166 position through AKT. Although p53 is one of the key players for Mdm2 induction, Tat-mediated stabilisation of Mdm2 appears to be independent of p53. Moreover, the non-phosphorylatable mutant of Mdm2 (S166A) fails to interact with Tat and shows decreased half-life in the presence of Tat compared with wild-type Mdm2. Furthermore, the non-phosphorylatable mutant of Mdm2 (S166A) is unable to support HIV-1 replication. Thus, HIV-1 Tat appears to stabilise Mdm2, which in turn enhances Tat-mediated viral replication. This study highlights the importance of post-translational modifications of host cellular factors in HIV-1 replication and pathogenesis.
Insulin resistance promotes Lysyl Oxidase Like 2 induction and fibrosis accumulation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Dongiovanni Paola , Meroni Marica , Baselli Guido Alessandro , Bassani Giulia Alessandra , Rametta Raffaela , Pietrelli Alessandro , Maggioni Marco , Facciotti Federica , Trunzo Valentina , Badiali Sara , Fargion Silvia , Gatti Stefano , Valenti Luca
Published: May 2017

In patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), insulin resistance (IR) associates with fibrosis progression independently of the hepatic inflammation, but the mechanisms are still unclear. We modeled the independent contribution of inflammation (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis: NASH) by exploiting the methionine-choline deficient (MCD) diet, and that of IR by insulin receptor (InsR) haploinsufficieny (InsR+/–) in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in C57BL/6 mice. We confirmed the study findings in 96 patients with NAFLD. InsR+/– enhanced hepatic fat content and impaired hepatic insulin signaling leading to Forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1) accumulation in MCD-fed mice. Remarkably, despite reduced inflammation and hampered transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), InsR+/– promoted hepatic fibrosis accumulation, which correlated with the induction of the Lysyl Oxidase Like 2 (Loxl2), involved in matrix stabilization. Loxl2 up-regulation was not a cell autonomous property of insulin resistant HSCs, but was dependent on microparticles (MPs) released specifically by insulin resistant hepatocytes (HEPs) exposed to fatty acids. The mechanism entailed FoxO1 up-regulation, as FoxO1 silencing normalized Loxl2 expression reversing fibrosis in InsR+/– MCD-fed mice. Loxl2 up-regulation was similarly detected during IR induced by obesity, but not by lipogenic stimuli (fructose feeding). Most importantly, LOXL2 up-regulation was observed in NAFLD patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and LOXL2 hepatic and circulating levels correlated with histological fibrosis progression. IR favors fibrosis deposition independently of the classic ‘inflammation – HSC transdifferentiation’ pathway. The mechanism entails a cross-talk between enhanced lipotoxicity in insulin resistant HEPs and Loxl2 production by HSCs, which was confirmed in patients with diabetes, thereby facilitating extracellular matrix (ECM) stabilization.
Influence of activated carbon fibres with different specific surface areas on the thermal conductive and electrical insulating properties of polyamide‐imide composites
Authors: Jiang Fang , Chen Li , Song Na , Shi Liyi , Ding Peng
Published: May 2017

In this study, the authors reported an influence of activated carbon fibres (ACFs) with different specific surface areas on the thermal conductive and electrical insulating properties of polymeric composites. Here, the polyamide‐imide composites were obtained via solution blending and cured method. The composites exhibited thermal conductivity (TC) up to 0.62 W·m−1·K−1. In addition, the composites were still insulating, having an electrical resistance of 0.7 MΩ. The experimental results suggested that the mechanical and electrical insulating properties decreased with the increasing of the specific surface area of the ACFs. Meanwhile, it was found that the introduction of boron nitride was conducive to the TC and electrical insulating properties of the polymeric materials.
Iterative MMSE‐based soft MIMO detection with parallel interference cancellation
Authors: Zhang Meixiang , Ahmed Saleem , Kim Sooyoung
Published: May 2017

Minimum mean square error (MMSE)‐based techniques are often used for the joint iterative detection and decoding that is for coded multi‐input–multi‐output (MIMO) system due to a sound complexity and the performance trade‐off. This study proposes an enhanced MMSE‐based soft MIMO‐detection scheme by using three main ideas. The first idea is an efficient complexity‐reduced soft‐bit estimation technique, the second one is a performance improvement method utilised inside the MMSE detection process, and the third one is a complexity‐reduced soft‐symbol estimation method for quadrature amplitude modulation. The proposed ideas enable the interference‐cancellation processes to be activated in parallel on each symbol layer, thereby reducing the processing time. The simulation results show that the proposed method efficiently contributes to the improvement of the performance in addition to its reduction of the linear‐order complexity.
Label fusion method based on sparse patch representation for the brain MRI image segmentation
Authors: Liu Hong , Yan Meng , Song Enmin , Qian Yuejing , Xu Xiangyang , Jin Renchao , Jin Lianghai , Hung Chih‐Cheng
Published: May 2017

The multi‐Atlas patch‐based label fusion method (MAS‐PBM) has emerged as a promising technique for the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) image segmentation. The state‐of‐the‐art MAS‐PBM approach measures the patch similarity between the target image and each atlas image using the features extracted from images intensity only. It is well known that each atlas consists of both MRI image and labelled image (which is also called the map). In other words, the map information is not used in calculating the similarity in the existing MAS‐PBM. To improve the segmentation result, the authors propose an enhanced MAS‐PBM in which the maps will be used for similarity measure. The first component of the proposed method is that an initial segmentation result (i.e. an appropriate map for the target) is obtained by using either the non‐local‐patch‐based label fusion method (NPBM) or the sparse patch‐based label fusion method (SPBM) based on the grey scales of patches. Then, the SPBM is applied again to obtain the finer segmentation based on the labels of patches. The authors called these two versions of the proposed fusion method as MAS‐PBM‐NPBM and MAS‐PBM‐SPBM. Experimental results show that more accurate segmentation results are achieved compared with those of the majority voting, NPBM, SPBM, STEPS and the hierarchical multi‐atlas label fusion with multi‐scale feature representation and label‐specific patch partition.
Indoor wideband channel measurements and analysis at 11 and 14 GHz
Authors: Zhou Xin , Zhong Zhangdui , Bian Xin , He Ruisi , Sun Ruoyu , Guan Ke , Liu Ke
Published: May 2017

This study reports the results of an indoor propagation measurement campaign and channel characterisation at 11 and 14 GHz, which are the candidate bands for the future communication systems. The measurement procedure allows the characterisation of both the large‐ and small‐scale statistics of line‐of‐sight (LOS) and non‐LOS (NLOS) channels. Based on the measurements, a log‐distance path loss model is proposed, and the root‐mean‐square (RMS) delay spread is discussed. A Nakagami distribution is found to well describe the statistics of the small‐scale fading, by using Kolmogorov–Smirnov, Chi‐square, and Anderson–Darling tests. A distance dependent linear model is proposed to predict the Nakagami m‐parameter. In addition, the cross‐correlations of these channel parameters are analysed based on measurements, and the cross‐correlations between the shadow fading, RMS delay spread and m‐factor can be clearly observed for LOS condition, whereas the obstruction of NLOS reduces the cross‐correlations.
Five‐level torque controller‐based DTC method for a cascaded three‐level inverter fed induction motor drive
Authors: Naganathan Pratibha , Srinivas Srirama , Ittamveettil Hridya
Published: May 2017

Two cascaded two‐level inverters can synthesise three‐level voltage space vector. For the cascaded three‐level inverter controlled induction motor, this study proposes a five‐level torque controller (FLTC)‐based direct torque control (DTC) method especially for improving steady‐state motor torque performance and retaining the high dynamic performance. The proposed FLTC method employs hysteresis controllers, uses look‐up tables and ends up with variable switching frequency of the cascaded three‐level inverter. Computationally, the envisaged FLTC method is quite comparable to that of the basic DTC method. The FLTC method ensures reduced switching commutations in the inverter switching devices during low speeds of operation and simultaneously achieves reduced dv/dt switching stresses. An inherent drawback of FLTC method at higher speeds of operation is identified, theoretically analysed and a pseudo error‐based correction is also suggested in this study to overcome the drawback. The steady‐state and transient motor torque performance of the induction motor with the use of the envisaged FLTC‐based DTC method is thoroughly analysed, simulated using Matlab/Simulink and then experimentally validated on a laboratory prototype for starting, speed reversal and load change conditions with the use of the cascaded three‐level inverter.
Operation and control design of an input‐series–input‐parallel–output‐series conversion scheme for offshore DC wind systems
Authors: Darwish Ahmed , Holliday Derrick , Finney Stephen
Published: May 2017

High‐power converters for high‐voltage direct current transmission systems and collecting networks are attracting increasing interest for application in large offshore wind farms. Offshore wind farms are capable of generating more electric energy at lower cost when compared with onshore wind systems. In this study, DC/DC voltage conversion should be achieved with a power converter that uses readily available semiconductor devices. A modular DC/DC converter can achieve the required system currents and voltages without exceeding semiconductor ratings. In this study, the operation and control strategy for an input‐series–input‐parallel–output‐series (ISIPOS) energy conversion system for wind systems are presented. The ISIPOS system allows the direct connection of wind turbines to the DC grid. In this research, the design process to control the input and output currents and voltages is explained. In addition, a new method to ensure voltage and current sharing between the different modules is presented and explained. The basic structure, control design, and system performance are tested using MATLAB/SIMULINK. Practical results validate the control design flexibility of the ISIPOS topology when controlled by a TMSF280335 DSP.
Enantioselective 4-Hydroxylation of Phenols under Chiral Organoiodine(I/III) Catalysis
Authors: Muñiz Kilian , Fra Laura
Published: May 2017

A procedure for the intermolecular enantioselective dearomatization of phenols under chiral (I/III) catalysis is reported. This protocol employs 3-chloroperoxybenzoic acid (m-CPBA) as the terminal oxidant together with a defined C
2-symmetric aryl iodide as the effective organocatalyst. This enantioselective reaction proceeds with complete selectivity under mild conditions and enables the hydroxylative dearomatization of a number of phenols to give the corresponding p-quinol products with up to 50% ee.
Synthesis of 2-Alkenyl-Tethered Anilines
Authors: Denmark Scott , Chi Hyung
Published: May 2017

Three general routes for the synthesis of (E)-2-alkenyl-tethered anilines have been developed. The first route involves a 3-aza-Cope rearrangement of N-allylic anilines in the presence of a Lewis acid. The requisite N-allylic anilines were prepared by the addition of vinylmagnesium reagents to the corresponding aldimines. The second route details a direct cross-metathesis of 2-allylic or 2-homoallylic anilines with styrenes. The third route involves a palladium-catalyzed C–N cross-coupling of aryl halides. Taken together, these three strategies allowed access to the requisite aniline substrates with pendant alkenes at the 2-position with excellent trans selectivities.
Die prognostische Validität des FCE-Verfahrens ELA in beruflich orientierten medizinischen Rehabilitationsmaßnahmen
Authors: Bühne David , Alles Torsten , Hetzel Christian , Froböse Ingo
Published: May 2017

Ziel war die Ermittlung der prognostischen Güte des Verfahrens „ELA – Einschätzung körperlicher Leistungsfähigkeiten bei arbeitsbezogenen Aktivitäten“ hinsichtlich einer nachhaltigen beruflichen Wiedereingliederung.

An der multizentrisch prospektiven Kohortenstudie beteiligten sich 4 Einrichtungen der ambulanten medizinischen Rehabilitation und 198 Probanden. Zielgrößen waren Erwerbstätigkeit nach 3 Monaten mit einem niedrigen Niveau an Arbeitsunfähigkeitstagen (AU-Tagen) (1) bzw. mit einer subjektiv mindestens mittelmäßigen Fähigkeit zur Bewältigung der körperlichen Arbeitsanforderungen (2). Basierend auf den zu Reha-Beginn und Reha-Ende erhobenen ELA-Ergebnissen sowie Patientenangaben zu Reha-Beginn wurden Regressionsmodelle berechnet.

Die Bedeutung der ELA-Ergebnisse zeigte sich zu Reha-Ende sowohl nach Kontrolle der Assessoren (Odds Ratio – OR=17,2 [95% Konfidenzintervall – CI: 6,2–57,8] bzw. OR 12,8 [95% CI: 5,1–32,1]) also auch zusätzlicher Adjustierung für objektive Patientenangaben (OR 14,6 [95% CI: 4,8–44,9] bzw. OR 10,1 [95% CI: 3,5–29,4]). Ein zusätzlicher Informationsgewinn der ELA-Ergebnisse zu Reha-Beginn gegenüber Referenzmodellen, in denen auch subjektive Patientenangaben berücksichtigt wurden, zeigte sich nur hinsichtlich Zielgröße 1 (OR 2,6 [95% CI: 1,1–6,0]).

ELA ermöglicht eine valide und über objektive Patientenangaben hinausgehende Prognose der nachhaltigen beruflichen Wiedereingliederung. Das Vorliegen eines Mehrgewinns gegenüber auf subjektiven und objektiven Patientenangaben basierenden Prognosemodellen konnte nicht eindeutig bestätigt werden.
Gastroesophageal reflux after peroral endoscopic myotomy: a multicenter case–control study
Authors: Kumbhari Vivek , Familiari Pietro , Bjerregaard Niels , Pioche Mathieu , Jones Edward , Ko Weon , Hayee Bu , Cali Anna , Ngamruengphong Saowanee , Mion Francois , Hernaez Ruben , Roman Sabine , Tieu Alan , El Zein Mohamad , Ajayi Tokunbo , Haji Amyn , Cho Joo , Hazey Jeffrey , Perry Kyle , Ponchon Thierry , Kunda Rastislav , Costamagna Guido , Khashab Mouen
Published: May 2017

Background and study aims The variables associated with gastroesophageal reflux (GER) after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) are largely unknown. This study aimed to: 1) identify the prevalence of reflux esophagitis and asymptomatic GER in patients who underwent POEM, and 2) evaluate patient and intraprocedural variables associated with post-POEM GER.

Patients and methods All patients who underwent POEM and subsequent objective testing for GER (pH study with or without upper gastrointestinal [GI] endoscopy) at seven tertiary academic centers (one Asian, two US, four European) were included. Patients were divided into two groups: 1) DeMeester score ≥ 14.72 (cases) and 2) DeMeester score of < 14.72 (controls). Asymptomatic GER was defined as a patient with a DeMeester score ≥ 14.72 who was not consuming proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

Results A total of 282 patients (female 48.2 %, Caucasian 84.8 %; mean body mass index 24.1 kg/m2) were included. Clinical success was achieved in 94.3 % of patients. GER evaluation was completed after a median follow-up of 12 months (interquartile range 10 – 24 months). A DeMeester score of ≥ 14.72 was seen in 57.8 % of patients. Multivariable analysis revealed female sex to be the only independent association (odds ratio 1.69, 95 % confidence interval 1.04 – 2.74) with post-POEM GER. No intraprocedural variables were associated with GER. Upper GI endoscopy was available in 233 patients, 54 (23.2 %) of whom were noted to have reflux esophagitis (majority Los Angeles Grade A or B). GER was asymptomatic in 60.1 %.

Conclusion Post-POEM GER was seen in the majority of patients. No intraprocedural variables were identified to allow for potential alteration in procedural technique.
MicroRNA-524-5p Functions as a Tumor Suppressor in a Human Pituitary Tumor-Derived Cell Line
Authors: Zhen Wang , Qiu Du , Zhiyong Chen , Xin Wang , Mengyao Jian , Dimin Zhu , Chonghui Hu , Haijun Wang , Yonghong Zhu
Published: May 2017

Clinical nonfunctional pituitary adenomas (NFAs) account for about 40% of pituitary adenomas with almost no clinically relevant hormonal symptoms. Increasing evidence shows that many microRNAs are involved in the development and progression of pituitary adenomas. MicroRNA-524-5p (miR-524-5p) has been reported to cause characteristic alterations in various tumors. However, the functional importance of miR-524-5p in NFAs remains unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of overexpressing miR-524-5p on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and tumorigenicity of pituitary-derived folliculostellate (PDFS) cells using lentiviral transfection. Interestingly, the results showed that overexpressing miR-524-5p downregulated pituitary tumor-transforming gene 1 (PTTG1) binding factor (PBF) expression at both mRNA and protein levels and significantly attenuated cell proliferation, clonogenicity, migration, and invasion in vitro. Moreover, enhancing miR-524-5p blocked tumor growth in a nude mouse xenograft model in vivo. These findings suggest that miR-524-5p appears to play a critical role in the regulation of biological properties of PDFS cells, and may represent a potential therapeutic target for NFAs.
3D Volumetric Measurements of GH Secreting Adenomas Correlate with Baseline Pituitary Function, Initial Surgery Success Rate, and Disease Control
Authors: Tirosh Amit , Papadakis Georgios , Chittiboina Prashant , Lyssikatos Charalampos , Belyavskaya Elena , Keil Meg , Lodish Maya , Stratakis Constantine
Published: May 2017

There is scarce data on the clinical utility of volume measurement for growth hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary adenomas. The current study objective was to assess the association between pituitary adenoma volumes and baseline endocrine evaluation, initial surgical success rate, and disease control among patients with acromegaly. A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a clinical research center including patients with acromegaly due to GH-secreting pituitary adenomas. Baseline hormonal evaluation and adenoma characteristics according to MRI were collected. Volumetric measurements of pituitary adenomas were performed using a semi-automated lesion segmentation and tumor-volume assessment tools. Rates of post-operative medical treatment, radiation therapy, and re-operation were gathered from the patients’ medical records. Twenty seven patients (11 females) were included, median age 21.0 years (interquartile range 29 years, range 3–61 years). Patients harboring adenomas with a volume <2 000 mm3 had higher chance to achieve disease remission [94.1% (n=16) vs. 50.0% (n=4), p<0.05]. Adenoma volumes positively correlated with baseline plasma GH levels before and after oral glucose administration, and with plasma IGF-I and PRL levels. Adenoma volume had negative correlation with morning plasma cortisol levels. Finally, patients harboring larger adenomas required 2nd surgery and/or medical treatment more often compared with subjects with smaller adenomas. Accurate 3D volume measurement of GH-secreting pituitary adenomas may be used for the prediction of initial surgery success and for disease control rates among patients with a GH-secreting pituitary adenomas and performs better than standard size assessments.
Prediction of Permeation and Cellular Transport of Silybum marianum Extract Formulated in a Nanoemulsion by Using PAMPA and Caco-2 Cell Models
Authors: Piazzini Vieri , Rosseti Chiara , Bigagli Elisabetta , Luceri Cristina , Bilia Anna , Bergonzi Maria
Published: May 2017

The present study explores the potential of nanoemulsion, a lipid drug delivery system, to improve solubility and oral absorption of Silybum marianum extract. The optimized formulation contained 40 mg/mL of commercial extract (4 % w/w) and it was composed of 2.5 g labrasol (20 %) as the oil phase, 1.5 g cremophor EL as the surfactant, and 1 g labrafil as the cosurfactant (mixture surfactant/cosurfactant, 20 %).

The system was characterized by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and HPLC-DAD analyses in order to evaluate size, homogeneity, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency. Physical and chemical stabilities were assessed during 40 days at 4 °C and 3 months at 25 °C. Stability in simulated gastric fluid followed by simulated intestinal conditions was also considered.

In vitro permeation studies were performed to determine the suitability of the prepared nanoemulsion for oral delivery. Different models such as the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay and Caco-2 cell lines were applied.

The nanoemulsion showed a good solubilizing effect of the extract, with a pronounced action also on its permeability, in respect to a saturated aqueous solution. The Caco-2 test confirmed the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay results and they revealed the suitability of the prepared nanoemulsion for oral delivery.
Chemical bonding and nanomolecular length effects on work function at Au-organophosphonate-HfO2 interfaces
Authors: Winter Roy , Kwan Matthew , Mutin P. Hubert , Ramanath Ganpati , Eizenberg Moshe
Published: May 2017

We demonstrate that introducing a thiol-terminated organophosphonate nanomolecular layer (NML) can increase the effective work function at Au-HfO2 interfaces by up to ΔΦeff = 0.55 ± 0.05 eV. Capacitance measurements of Au-NML-HfO2-SiO2-Si stacks and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy of Au-NML-HfO2 structures, and parts thereof, reveal that Φeff shifts are primarily determined by the length of the molecules comprising the NML, while Au-NML and NML-oxide bonding dipole contributions tend to counteract each other. Our findings provide insights into tailoring the electronic properties of metal-oxide heterointerfaces for applications by harmonizing the effects of interfacial bonding and NML morphology.
Breakup of a liquid rivulet falling over an inclined plate: Identification of a critical Weber number
Authors: Singh Rajesh K. , Galvin Janine E. , Whyatt Greg A. , Sun Xin
Published: May 2017

We have numerically investigated the breakup of a rivulet falling over a smooth inclined plate using the volume of fluid method. Rivulet breakup is a complex phenomenon dictated by many factors, such as physical properties (viscosity and surface tension), contact angle, inertia, and plate inclination. An extensive simulation was conducted wherein these factors were systematically investigated. Regimes for a stable rivulet and an unstable rivulet that leads to breakup are examined in terms of a critical value of the Weber number (Wecr) that delineates these regimes. A higher Wecr implies that a higher flow rate is required to maintain a stable rivulet. The impact of liquid properties is characterized by the Kapitza number (Ka). Variation of Wecr with Ka shows two trends depending on the Ka value of the liquid. Liquids with lower Ka values, corresponding to high viscosities and/or low surface tensions, show linear variation and smaller value of the critical Weber number. In other words, the lower the liquid Ka value, the more stable the rivulet will tend to be with changes in liquid inertia. A liquid having higher Ka value exhibits larger value of Wecr and quadratic variation of Wecr with Ka. This behavior is more pronounced with increasing contact angle (γ). Higher contact angles promote rivulet breakup so that inertia must be higher to suppress breakup, consequently Wecr increases with increasing γ. The effect of plate inclination on breakup shows that Wecr decreases with increased inclination angle (θ) owing to higher effective liquid inertia. However, the effect is negligible beyond θ> 60°. The effect of the inlet size reveals that Wecr decreases with inlet cross-sectional area, but the corresponding solvent flow rate for rivulet breakup remains unchanged. A phenomenological scaling for the critical Weber number with the Kapitza number and contact angle is presented, which may offer insight into rivulet breakup.
Interplay of localized pyrene chromophores and π-conjugation in novel poly(2,7-pyrene) ladder polymers
Authors: Rudnick Alexander , Kass Kim-Julia , Preis Eduard , Scherf Ullrich , Bässler Heinz , Köhler Anna
Published: May 2017

We present a detailed spectroscopic study, along with the synthesis, of conjugated, ladder-type 2,7-linked poly(pyrene)s. We observe a delocalization of the first singlet excited state along the polymer backbone, i.e., across the 2,7 linkage in the pyrene moiety, in contrast to earlier studies on conjugated 2,7-linked poly(pyrene)s without ladder structure. The electronic signature of the pyrene unit is, however, manifested in an increased lifetime and reduced oscillator strength as well as a modified vibronic progression in absorption of the singlet state compared to a ladder-type poly(para-phenylene) (MeLPPP). Furthermore, the reduced oscillator strength and increased lifetime slow down Förster-type energy transfer in films, where this transfer occurs to sites with increasing inter-chain coupling of H-type nature.
Direct numerical simulation of turbulent boundary layer with fully resolved particles at low volume fraction
Authors: Luo Kun , Hu Chenshu , Wu Fan , Fan Jianren
Published: May 2017

In the present work, a direct numerical simulation (DNS) of dilute particulate flow in a turbulent boundary layer has been conducted, containing thousands of finite-sized solid rigid particles. The particle surfaces are resolved with the multi-direct forcing immersed-boundary method. This is, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the first DNS study of a turbulent boundary layer laden with finite-sized particles. The particles have a diameter of approximately 11.3 wall units, a density of 3.3 times that of the fluid, and a solid volume fraction of 1/1000. The simulation shows that the onset and the completion of the transition processes are shifted earlier with the inclusion of the solid phase and that the resulting streamwise mean velocity of the boundary layer in the particle-laden case is almost consistent with the results of the single-phase case. At the same time, relatively stronger particle movements are observed in the near-wall regions, due to the driving of the counterrotating streamwise vortexes. As a result, increased levels of dissipation occur on the particle surfaces, and the root mean square of the fluctuating velocities of the fluid in the near-wall regions is decreased. Under the present parameters, including the particle Stokes number St+ = 24 and the particle Reynolds number Rep = 33 based on the maximum instantaneous fluid-solid velocity lag, no vortex shedding behind the particle is observed. Lastly, a trajectory analysis of the particles shows the influence of turbophoresis on particle wall-normal concentration, and the particles that originated between y+ = 60 and 2/3 of the boundary-layer thickness are the most influenced.
A critical comparison of Lagrangian methods for coherent structure detection
Authors: Hadjighasem Alireza , Farazmand Mohammad , Blazevski Daniel , Froyland Gary , Haller George
Published: May 2017

We review and test twelve different approaches to the detection of finite-time coherent material structures in two-dimensional, temporally aperiodic flows. We consider both mathematical methods and diagnostic scalar fields, comparing their performance on three benchmark examples: the quasiperiodically forced Bickley jet, a two-dimensional turbulence simulation, and an observational wind velocity field from Jupiter's atmosphere. A close inspection of the results reveals that the various methods often produce very different predictions for coherent structures, once they are evaluated beyond heuristic visual assessment. As we find by passive advection of the coherent set candidates, false positives and negatives can be produced even by some of the mathematically justified methods due to the ineffectiveness of their underlying coherence principles in certain flow configurations. We summarize the inferred strengths and weaknesses of each method, and make general recommendations for minimal self-consistency requirements that any Lagrangian coherence detection technique should satisfy.
Thiolated gold nanoparticle solvation in near-critical fluids: The role of density, temperature, and topology
Authors: Yadav Hari O. S. , Chakravarty Charusita
Published: May 2017

We employ molecular dynamics simulations to study the structure and solvation thermodynamics of thiolated gold nanoparticles of size 1.2 and 1.6 nm with ligand of chain length 8–16 carbons in ethane and propane over a wide range of densities close to the critical isotherm. The Helmholtz free energy is estimated by explicitly calculating the change in entropy and internal energy of solvation, and the effect of density and temperature on fluctuation-driven inherent anisotropy in the ligand corona is characterized. Since the topological variation further accentuates this instantaneous asymmetry in the ligand cloud, the anisotropy with varying surface coverage and chain length is also studied including the solvent contributions to the entropic and energetic metrics. Our results are consistent with the experiment, suggesting a route of obtaining structural insights into solvation thermodynamics that could be useful for understanding the stability of nanoparticle dispersions.
Pulling and spinning reversal of a subwavelength absorptive sphere in adjustable vector Airy light-sheets
Authors: Mitri F. G.
Published: May 2017

In the framework of the electric dipole approximation, this work demonstrates the generation of a pulling/attractive longitudinal force and an axial spin torque sign reversal causing counterclockwise or clockwise rotation of a subwavelength absorptive sphere placed in adjustable Airy light-sheets. Based on the vector angular spectrum decomposition method, the Lorenz gauge condition and Maxwell's equations, the Cartesian components of the incident radiated electric field of the generalized adjustable solution are derived, for which the main maximum Airy-lobe (i.e. caustic) is translated in space. The results find potential applications in the design/manufacture of particle manipulation and optical sorting devices using adjustable Airy-light sheets.