bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibody free ELISA-like assay for the detection of transcription factors based on double-stranded DNA thermostability
Authors: Sun Yue , Li Zhiyan , Lau Choiwan , Lu Jianzhong
Published: March 2020

Transcription factors (TFs) play critical roles in gene expression regulation and disease development. Herein we report a chemiluminescence assay for the detection of transcription factor based on double-stranded DNA thermostability.
Formation and disappearance of aldehydes during simulated gastrointestinal digestion of fried clams
Authors: Liu Zhong-Yuan , Hu Yuan-Yuan , Zhao Man-Tong , Xie Hong-Kai , Hu Xiao-Pei , Ma Xiao-Chi , Zhang Jiang-Hua , Bai Yan-Hong , Zhou Da-Yong
Published: March 2020

The formation and disappearance of aldehydes during simulated gastrointestinal digestion (SD) of fried clams was investigated in order to shed light on the underlying mechanism.
Conductance switching at the nanoscale of diarylethene derivative self-assembled monolayers on La0.7Sr0.3MnO3
Authors: Thomas L. , Guérin D. , Quinard B. , Jacquet E. , Mattana R. , Seneor P. , Vuillaume D. , Mélin T. , Lenfant S.
Published: March 2020

We report the electron transport switching properties of an LSMO/dithienylethene diphosphonic acid molecular junction probed by conducting AFM.
Engineering high-robustness DNA molecular circuits by utilizing nucleases
Authors: Fu Shengnan , Li Na , Li Junjie , Deng Yingnan , Xu Lida , Yu Changyuan , Su Xin
Published: March 2020

We utilized site-specific and sequence-independent nucleases to engineer high-robustness DNA molecular circuits.
A mechanically bendable and conformally attachable polymer membrane microlaser array enabled by digital interference lithography
Authors: Huang Wenbin , Zhang Xin-Jun , Yang Tianchi , Wu Shaolong , Yang Xiaofei , Liu Yan-Hua , Chen Linsen
Published: March 2020

An ultra-thin polymer membrane microlaser array was developed using digital interference lithography which showed advantages of stretchability, bendability and attachability.
An electrochemical sensor based on enzyme-free recycling amplification for sensitive and specific detection of miRNAs from cancer cells
Authors: Jiang Lili , Yang Yuling , Lin Yuhong , Chen Ziyi , Xing Chao , Lu Chunhua , Yang Huanghao , Zhang Shusheng
Published: March 2020

A catalyzed hairpin assembly and binding-induced formation of the DNA three-way junction for ultrasensitive electrochemical detection of diverse miRNAs is reported.
The synthesis of a perovskite CsPbBr3 quantum dot superlattice in borosilicate glass
Authors: Cao Enhao , Qiu Jianbei , Zhou Dacheng , Yang Yong , Wang Qi , Wen Yugeng
Published: March 2020

A facile way to precipitate a perovskite CsPbBr3 quantum dot superlattice accompanied by superfluorescence in a solid-state transparent borosilicate glass medium is demonstrated.
A highly efficient FeP/CeO2–NF hybrid electrode for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Liu Jian , Gao Yan , Wei Yu , Chen Xuyang , Hao Shengjie , Ding Xin , Pan Lijun
Published: March 2020

A FeP/CeO2–NF hybrid electrode was synthesized by a simple electrodeposition and high-temperature phosphorization method. The electrode exhibits high performance toward the OER, which outperforms most reported transition metal phosphide materials.
Significantly enhanced CO oxidation activity induced by a change in the CO adsorption site on Pd nanoparticles covered with metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Aoyama Yoshimasa , Kobayashi Hirokazu , Yamamoto Tomokazu , Toriyama Takaaki , Matsumura Syo , Haneda Masaaki , Kitagawa Hiroshi
Published: March 2020

We report the significantly enhanced CO oxidation activity of Pd nanoparticles covered with UiO-66.
Confinement of fluorine anions in nickel-based catalysts for greatly enhancing oxygen evolution activity
Authors: Tong Yun , Mao Hainiao , Chen Pengzuo , Sun Qiong , Yan Fei , Xi Fengna
Published: March 2020

A simple fluorine treatment was developed to confine abundant fluorine anions into Ni-based catalysts to greatly enhance OER catalytic activity.
A high local DNA concentration for nucleating a DNA/Fe coordination shell on gold nanoparticles
Authors: Huang Zhicheng , Liu Biwu , Liu Juewen
Published: March 2020

A high localized DNA density on AuNP can facilitate the formation of DNA/Fe hybrids. The TEM images of AuNP@DNA/Fe nanoparticles (above) and aggregated AuNP@DNA nanoparticles (below).
Susceptible CoSnO3 nanoboxes with p-type response for triethylamine detection at low temperature
Authors: Zheng Lingli , Zhao Yingqiang , Xu Yongshan , Yang Chen , Zhang Jun , Liu Xianghong
Published: March 2020

CoSnO3 nanoboxes exhibit a p-type response to detect triethylamine at 100 °C with a limit of detection of 134 ppb.
Theoretical study of the reaction mechanism and kinetics of the phenyl + propargyl association
Authors: Morozov Alexander N. , Mebel Alexander M.
Published: March 2020

Potential energy surface for the phenyl + propargyl radical recombination reaction has been studied using high-level ab initio calculations and temperature- and pressure-dependent rate constants and product yields have been computed employing RRKM-ME.
Multi-functional lanthanide-CPs based on tricarboxylphenyl terpyridyl ligand as ratiometric luminescent thermometer and highly sensitive ion sensor with turn on/off effect
Authors: Feng Xun , Shang Yapei , Zhang Heng , Liu Xinfang , Wang Xinyi , Chen Nan , Wang Liya , Li Zhongjun
Published: March 2020

The binary compound Ln-CP Tb0.897Eu0.103tcptpy has been developed as a ratiometric luminescent thermometer. Its relative sensitivity can reach up to 8.41% K−1 in the 305 to 340 K range.
Cooperative and synchronized rotation in motorized porous frameworks: impact on local and global transport properties of confined fluids
Authors: Evans Jack D. , Krause Simon , Feringa Ben L.
Published: March 2020

Simulations reveal the influence of rotating molecular motors and the importance of orientation and directionality for altering the transport properties of fluids. This has outlined that motors with specific rotation can generate directed diffusion.
Development of fluorescent lateral flow test strips based on an electrospun molecularly imprinted membrane for detection of triazophos residues in tap water
Authors: He Yahui , Hong Sihui , Wang Miao , Wang Jing , Abd El-Aty A. M. , Wang Jing , Hacimuftuoglu Ahmet , Khan Majid , She Yongxin
Published: March 2020

Herein, a molecularly imprinted membrane chromatography strip using a combination of electrospinning, molecular imprinting, and fluorescent lateral flow test strips (LFTS) was developed for specific recognition of triazophos residues in tap water.
In vivophotothermal inhibition of methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureusinfection byin situtemplated formulation of pathogen-targeting phototheranostics
Authors: Guo Xujuan , Cao Bing , Wang Congyu , Lu Siyu , Hu Xianglong
Published: March 2020

Herein, pathogen-targeting phototheranostic nanoparticles, Van-OA@PPy, arein situdeveloped for efficient elimination of MRSA infection, which is reflected by dual-modality magnetic resonance and photoacoustic imaging.
Manipulating phonon polaritons in low loss11B enriched hexagonal boron nitride with polarization control
Authors: Wang Lu , Chen Runkun , Xue Mengfei , Liu Song , Edgar James H. , Chen Jianing
Published: March 2020

An effective approach to reducing phonon polariton damping and manipulating phonon polariton excitation in hBNviapolarization control.
Interfering in apoptosis and DNA repair of cancer cells to conquer cisplatin resistance by platinum(iv) prodrugs
Authors: Zhang Shuren , Zhong Xuanmeng , Yuan Hao , Guo Yan , Song Dongfan , Qi Fen , Zhu Zhenzhu , Wang Xiaoyong , Guo Zijian
Published: March 2020

Platinum(iv) prodrugs targeting the DNA repair mechanism downregulate myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1) and homologous recombination proteins (RAD51, BRCA2), thereby enhancing cytotoxicity against cisplatin-resistant cancer cells.
LncRNA XIST promotes the progression of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma via sponging miR-125b-5p to modulate TRIB2
Authors: Liu Chunxiu , Lu Zhenjun , Liu Hui , Zhuang Shenfa , Guo Ping
Published: March 2020

Objective: X inactivate-specific transcript (XIST) is an attractive long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) functioning as an indicator of various human tumors, including laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). The present study was conducted to explore a novel regulatory network of lncRNA XIST in LSCC cells.

Materials and methods: Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR) was used to detect the expression levels of XIST, miR-125b-5p and TRIB2 in LSCC cells and tissues. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion were detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), flow cytometry and Transwell assays, separately. The relationship among XIST, miR-125b-5p and tribbles homolog 2 (TRIB2) was predicted by starBase v2.0 or TargetScan and confirmed by Dual-luciferase reporter assay. The TRIB2 protein expression was quantified by Western blot assay. Murine xenograft model was utilized to validate the role of XIST in vivo.

Results: XIST was notably up-regulated in LSCC tissues and cells, and the high level of XIST was associated with the low survival rate of LSCC patients. XIST knockdown markedly repressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion and promoted the apoptosis of LSCC cells and the effects were antagonized by loss of miR-125b-5p. MiR-125b-5p was a target of XIST in LSCC cells, and it could bind to TRIB2 as well. Moreover, XIST-loss-induced down-regulation of TRIB2 could be significantly reversed by miR-125b-5p knockdown. XIST promoted the growth of LSCC tumor in vivo.

Conclusion: LncRNA XIST promoted the malignance of LSCC cells partly through competitively binding to miR-125b-5p, which in turn increased TRIB2 expression.
Current knowledge and recent advances in understanding metabolism of the model cyanobacteriumSynechocystissp. PCC 6803
Authors: Mills Lauren A. , McCormick Alistair J. , Lea-Smith David J.
Published: March 2020

Cyanobacteria are key organisms in the global ecosystem, useful models for studying metabolic and physiological processes conserved in photosynthetic organisms, and potential renewable platforms for production of chemicals. Characterizing cyanobacterial metabolism and physiology is key to understanding their role in the environment and unlocking their potential for biotechnology applications. Many aspects of cyanobacterial biology differ from heterotrophic bacteria. For example, most cyanobacteria incorporate a series of internal thylakoid membranes where both oxygenic photosynthesis and respiration occur, while CO2 fixation takes place in specialized compartments termed carboxysomes. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of our knowledge on cyanobacterial physiology and the pathways in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 (Synechocystis) involved in biosynthesis of sugar-based metabolites, amino acids, nucleotides, lipids, cofactors, vitamins, isoprenoids, pigments and cell wall components, in addition to the proteins involved in metabolite transport. While some pathways are conserved between model cyanobacteria, such as Synechocystis, and model heterotrophic bacteria like Escherichia coli, many enzymes and/or pathways involved in the biosynthesis of key metabolites in cyanobacteria have not been completely characterized. These include pathways required for biosynthesis of chorismate and membrane lipids, nucleotides, several amino acids, vitamins and cofactors, and isoprenoids such as plastoquinone, carotenoids, and tocopherols. Moreover, our understanding of photorespiration, lipopolysaccharide assembly and transport, and degradation of lipids, sucrose, most vitamins and amino acids, and haem, is incomplete. We discuss tools that may aid our understanding of cyanobacterial metabolism, notably CyanoSource, a barcoded library of targeted Synechocystis mutants, which will significantly accelerate characterization of individual proteins.
A compendium of G-protein–coupled receptors and cyclic nucleotide regulation of adipose tissue metabolism and energy expenditure
Authors: Ceddia Ryan P. , Collins Sheila
Published: March 2020

With the ever-increasing burden of obesity and Type 2 diabetes, it is generally acknowledged that there remains a need for developing new therapeutics. One potential mechanism to combat obesity is to raise energy expenditure via increasing the amount of uncoupled respiration from the mitochondria-rich brown and beige adipocytes. With the recent appreciation of thermogenic adipocytes in humans, much effort is being made to elucidate the signaling pathways that regulate the browning of adipose tissue. In this review, we focus on the ligand–receptor signaling pathways that influence the cyclic nucleotides, cAMP and cGMP, in adipocytes. We chose to focus on G-protein–coupled receptor (GPCR), guanylyl cyclase and phosphodiesterase regulation of adipocytes because they are the targets of a large proportion of all currently available therapeutics. Furthermore, there is a large overlap in their signaling pathways, as signaling events that raise cAMP or cGMP generally increase adipocyte lipolysis and cause changes that are commonly referred to as browning: increasing mitochondrial biogenesis, uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) expression and respiration.
An X-ray activity cycle on the young solar-like star ɛ Eridani
Authors: Coffaro M. , Stelzer B. , Orlando S. , Hall J. , Metcalfe T. S. , Wolter U. , Mittag M. , Sanz-Forcada J. , Schneider P. C. , Ducci L.
Published: March 2020

Chromospheric Ca II activity cycles are frequently found in late-type stars, but no systematic programs have been created to search for their coronal X-ray counterparts. The typical time scale of Ca II activity cycles ranges from years to decades. Therefore, long-lasting missions are needed to detect the coronal counterparts. The XMM-Newton satellite has so far detected X-ray cycles in five stars. A particularly intriguing question is at what age (and at what activity level) X-ray cycles set in. To this end, in 2015 we started the X-ray monitoring of the young solar-like star ɛ Eridani, previously observed on two occasions: in 2003 and in early 2015, both by XMM-Newton. With an age of 440 Myr, it is one of the youngest solar-like stars with a known chromospheric Ca II cycle. We collected the most recent Mount Wilson S-index data available for ɛ Eridani, starting from 2002, including previously unpublished data. We found that the Ca II cycle lasts 2.92 ± 0.02 yr, in agreement with past results. From the long-term XMM-Newton lightcurve, we find clear and systematic X-ray variability of our target, consistent with the chromospheric Ca II cycle. The average X-ray luminosity is 2 × 1028erg s−1, with an amplitude that is only a factor of 2 throughout the cycle. We apply a new method to describe the evolution of the coronal emission measure distribution of ɛ Eridani in terms of solar magnetic structures: active regions, cores of active regions, and flares covering the stellar surface at varying filling fractions. Combinations of these three types of magnetic structures can only describe the observed X-ray emission measure of ɛ Eridani if the solar flare emission measure distribution is restricted to events in the decay phase. The interpretation is that flares in the corona of ɛ Eridani last longer than their solar counterparts. We ascribe this to the lower metallicity of ɛ Eridani. Our analysis also revealed that the X-ray cycle of ɛ Eridani is strongly dominated by cores of active regions. The coverage fraction of cores throughout the cycle changes by the same factor as the X-ray luminosity. The maxima of the cycle are characterized by a high percentage of covering fraction of the flares, consistent with the fact that flaring events are seen in the corresponding short-term X-ray lightcurves predominately at the cycle maxima. The high X-ray emission throughout the cycle of ɛ Eridani is thus explained by the high percentage of magnetic structures on its surface.
The influence of technology elements on the production of bioethanol from sugar sorghum
Authors: Muliarchuk Oksana , Koberniuk Olena , Bilyk Tetiana , Bezvikonnyi Petro , Tarasyuk Valeriy
Published: March 2020

The search for promising raw materials for the production of bioethanol is an urgent task of the present. An effective sugar crop for bioethanol production is sugar sorghum, which per hectare of crops provides 90-100 t / ha of biomass with sugar content of 18-20%. The article presents the results of the influence of mineral nutrition on the productivity and yield of bioethanol from sugar sorghum plants in the zone of the Western Forest-steppe of Ukraine. Investigation of the elements of the technology of cultivating sugar sorghum for the production of biofuels was conducted with the Sugar 1 variety and the Hybrid Honey F1 in three grades of nutrient backgrounds - no fertilizers, N90P90K90 and N120P120K120 using herbicide 2,4-D. For the introduction of sorghum herbicide 2,4-D in the steps of 1.5 l / ha in the phase of 3-4 leaves, there was a good increase in plant height and diameter of the stems. The increase in the yield of green mass of sorghum compared to non-fertilized control at the rate of N90P90K90 introduction into the Sugar 1 variety was 6.1 tons / ha, and the Hybrid Honey F1 was 6.5 tons / ha; for the norm N120P120K120 - respectively 7.9 and 8.6 t / ha. The yield of bioethanol by sorts of sorghum on the background of the introduction of N90P90K90 was respectively 2.18 and 2.27 t / ha, solid fuels - respectively 11.9 and 12.4 t / ha, bioenergy - respectively 243 and 254 GJ; on the background of the introduction of N120P120K120 and the application of 2,4-D herbicide, the bioethanol yield was 2.25 and 2.32 t / ha respectively, solid fuels - respectively 12.3 and 12.6 t / ha, bioenergy - respectively 252 and 259 GJ.
Modeling and Robust Optimization of the Technological Mode of Electrotechnological Complexes with the Renewable Energy Systems of Heat
Authors: Zaiets Natalia , Kondratenko Ihor , Lutskaya Natalia , Zhyltsov Andrii , Usenko Serhii
Published: March 2020

The article works out the structure of the relationship between the managerial levels of the food enterprise, which is developed taking in-to account the use of robust control systems in the abnormal mode and systems of repair of heat power. To optimize renewable energy systems to the existing range of technological equipment of the bakery, a cogeneration unit is installed, due to its ability to generate and consume both heat and electricity. Also it is shown that the emergence of an abnormal situation at the electrotechnological complex of food production leads to a significant change in the transfer coefficients of the object over the direct and cross-channel channels, which will lead to loss of stability of the closed control system. Synthesized structure robust control system which has roughness properties and minimal sensitivity to parametric and structural uncertainties facility in case of emergency situations and elected its optimization criterion. The basic properties of the electrotechnological complexes of food industries are analyzed and on the example of the baking furnace the robust control system synthesis and renewable energy systems are shown. A comparison of the characteristics of the control system with local and robust controllers has shown that a robust controller system has better robust properties in case of emergency situations.
Justification of Parameters of the Energy Supply System of Agricultural Enterprises with Using Wind Power Installations
Authors: Tryhuba Anatoliy , Bashynsky Oleg , Hutsol Taras , Rozkosz Anna , Prokopova Olha
Published: March 2020

The methodology is proposed and the simulation model of functioning of the energy supply system of agricultural enterprises using wind power installations is developed, which enables to solve the problem of justification of the parameters of the relevant system. The model of the energy supply system of an agricultural enterprise using wind power is developed, which is based on the method of stochastic simulation and provides justification of the parameters of this system by the cost criterion. On the basis of passive production experiments, the study of the natural-industrial conditions of energy supply of agricultural enterprises using the wind power installations for the conditions of Zhovkva district of Lviv region was performed. Computer experiments were carried out using the developed simulation model of functioning of the energy supply system of agricultural enterprises using wind power installations. On the example of the natural and production conditions of Zhovkva district of Lviv region, system functional indicators of the energy supply system of agricultural enterprises with the use of wind power installations are established. The tendencies of change in the cost of utilized energy for changes in parameters of the energy supply system of an agricultural enterprise using wind energy and the share of its replacement are justified.
Preliminary recognition of state of incorporating climate change impacts and adaptation considerations in SEA and EIA procedures for renewable energy projects
Authors: Tyszer Magdalena , Gałaś Slávka
Published: March 2020

In the last years, the European Union has developed and set a several environmental policies whose imposes an obligation on Member States to implement specific actions, including incorporating climate change considerations into SEA and EIA processes. One of major environmental challenges facing most developing countries is that of global climate change. The aim of the research was to obtain a comprehensive review of existing SEA and EIA practical approaches for renewable energy installations in the aspect of adaptation to climate change with specific reference to Polish projects. Both SEA and EIA procedures implemented in Poland and other countries was introduced with the intent of factoring in potential risk to the environment by future large-scale project developments such as the construction of power plants, roads, or dams. The paper consist the initial recognition of available data of the current experience and level of implementation climate change impact and adaptions into local procedures. Preliminary results suggest that the additional funding should be given for climate change adaptation in the energy sector, especially in renewable energy projects, as well as specific interventions for climate-adapted energy systems should be targeted in order to fill the gap in RES sector and spur sustainable energy development.
Strategies for effective vocational training of high school students in electrical engineering
Authors: Zbaravska Lesіa , Chaikovska Olha , Bilyk Tetiana , Budnyak Lyubov , Dobrovolska Ella , Kirika Diana
Published: March 2020

The vocational training in agricultural and technical High School should be provided and organized in a systematic, rational, effective ways. The integration of Ukrainian High School in European education considers the training of a universal specialist competent both in theoretical study and practical application of farming and engineering. The first attempts have already been done: dual education projects are encouraged by the Ministry of Education of Ukraine. The paper reports on teaching Physics through the implementation of profession based elements. Therefore, the aims of this paper are threefold: (1) to characterize the scientific knowledge in connecting theoretical and practical areas of study, to determine the basic characteristics according to standardized training programme future specialists in agriculture and engineering should have, (2) to develop the strategies for integrating the profession-based approach to teaching academic disciplines on the basis of the pedagogical experiment that involved 176 student-respondents and 41 teacher-respondents and (3) to create integrated curriculum, profession-based lecture samples and problem book in Physics for students majoring in Power Engineering in Agricultural Complex. The survey was carried out on the basis of the State Agrarian and Engineering University in Podillia, Lviv National Agrarian University and Nizhyn Agricultural University. To gain evidence about the effectiveness of implementation of profession-based material in Physics course in vocational training of future power engineers we used specially designed questionnaires, interviews and observation of behaviour. The results of the study proved that the use of profession-based material promotes the formation of student natural knowledge, as well as a wide range of practical skills and abilities. Providing the professional competence in training stimulates cognitive interest in t studying Physics as a science, helps to absorb material from other science disciplines, to develop their cognitive and creative abilities and to influence on the formation of persistent motifs to obtain knowledge from special disciplines.
Feature extraction of On-Load Tap-Changer Based on Improved EMD Energy Spectrum
Authors: Wenquan Huang
Published: March 2020

On-Load Tap-Changer is an important device with high failure rate in power systems. This paper proposes an improved EMD energy spectrum feature extraction method based on vibration signals. It divides the entire OLTC shifting process into two sections, and extracts their characteristic energy spectrum. Analysis of sample data shows that this method can more effectively distinguish the state of OLTC.
Analysis of economic and energy consumption driving factors of China’s construction industry investment in 2015
Authors: Zou Zijian , Bai Bo
Published: March 2020

This paper uses the input-output model to analyse the economic and energy consumption impact of China’s construction investment in 2015, and finds that it can drive economic growth of 15.11 trillion in total, with direct and indirect impacts of 27.22% and 72.78% respectively, and investment can actively promote the development of integrated services and finance and insurance sectors. Additionally, the direct energy consumption caused by the investment is 20.98Mtce, accounting for only 1.23%, while the indirect energy consumption is 1701.10Mtce, accounting for 98.77%, of which the largest energy consumption sector is the industry of Production and supply of electricity and heat, the industry of Metal smelting and rolling processing, the industry of non-metallic mineral products, indicating that the construction industry development of china has a strong dependence on traditional energy sources. In the future, we are supposed to focus on indirect energy consumption in the construction industry and formulate morae effective clean energy-saving policies.
Stochastic optimization of carbon mitigation path in Shenzhen based on uncertainty of power demand
Authors: Hu Qinghui , Tian Yushen
Published: March 2020

The core elements of urban carbon emission mitigation optimization path include structural adjustment, low energy supply, technological innovation, and enhanced energy demand management and improvement. How to optimize the combination of these factors to achieve the city’s emission mitigation goals at the lowest cost is very important to study the path of urban low-carbon development. Due to many factors involved, it is difficult to solve this problem by building a mathematical optimization model that includes all the elements. This paper minimizes the total cost of emission mitigations in various departments in Shenzhen, combines the uncertainty of parameters and constraints, and uses mathematically standardized method to establish a stochastic optimization model for urban carbon emissions paths. Considering the uncertainty of energy demand, the optimal promotion rate of technical measures of the city’s various departments in the stochastic optimization model during the planning period can be obtained, and the optimal solution of the city’s low-carbon development optimization path can be formed.
Shape effects in biological adhesion of ellipsoidal cells
Authors: Kaznacheev Mikhail , Belyaev Aleksey
Published: March 2020

Blood platelet adhesion is crucial for arterial thrombosis and hemostasis. The attachment of platelets to the injuries takes place under the action of high hydrodynamic forces and relies on the formation of breakable ligand-receptor bonds between the cell and the adhesive substrate. In this work we study how the geometrical effects may change the adhesive forces that stick platelets to the wounds. The mathematical model shows that oblate cells with high aspect ratio are more favourable for thrombus growth.
Delay Differential Model for Tumour-Immune System With Chemo-therapy and Optimal Control
Authors: Rihan Fathalla A. , Rihan Bassel F.
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we present a mathematical model of tumour-immune interactions in presence of chemotherapy treatment. The model is governed by a system of delay differential equations with optimal control variables. The control variables are included to justify the best strategy of treatments with minimum side effects, by reducing the production of new tumour cells and keeping the number of normal cells above the average of its carrying capacity. Existence of optimality and optimality conditions are also proved. The numerical simulations show that the optimal treatment strategy reduces the load of tumour cells and increases the effector cells after few days of therapy.
Modélisation 3D de l’os maxillaire dans l’analyse par éléments finis en implantologie orale : une nouvelle approche utilisant CBCT et anthropométrie
Authors: Hadj SaÏd M. , Thollon L. , Godio-Raboutet Y. , Catherine J.H. , Chossegros C.M. , Tardivo D.
Published: March 2020

Objectif : Caractériser l’os maxillaire postérieur chez l’adulte d’un point de vue géométrique pour obtenir des modèles numériques standards par éléments finis. Matériel et méthodes : Les images CBCT maxillaires des patients qui ont visité le service de Chirurgie Orale du CHU de La Timone à Marseille, France ont été recueillies au cours de l’année 2016. Les sujets inclus devaient être âgés de plus de 21 ans et être édentés au moins à partir de la première prémolaire maxillaire. Les patients atteints d’une pathologie osseuse ou d’un traitement influençant le remodelage osseux n’ont pas été inclus. La zone maxillaire postérieure a été définie pour chaque CBCT et 6 mesures de hauteur et de largeur de la crête alvéolaire ont été réalisées à l’aide d’une méthode anthropométrique. Une étude Gauge Anova R&R avec analyse de la répétabilité et de la reproductibilité de la variance des mesures, ainsi qu’une analyse en composantes principales (ACP) pour isoler des modèles standards, ont été menées. Les modèles 3D ont été réalisés à partir d’images au format DICOM. Résultats : Le CBCT de 100 hommes et 100 femmes ont été retenus dans notre étude. 1200 mesures de crête alvéolaire ont été réalisée et les valeurs moyennes de hauteur et de largeur des différentes parties de la zone maxillaire postérieure étaient très disparates. L’analyse statistique de variance a validé la répétabilité et la reproductibilité de notre protocole de mesures. L’ACP n’a pas permis d’identifier les modèles standards et ceux- ci ont été modélisés à partir de notre base de données. Conclusion : Notre travail est le premier à considérer des paramètres anthropométriques sur un large échantillon de sujets dans la méthode des éléments finis. Nous mettons ainsi en évidence la perspective de réaliser des modèles anatomiques complexes et réalistes à partir de l’anatomie humaine pour réaliser des tests biomécaniques en implantologie orale.
Prothrombin Is Responsible for the Lupus Cofactor Phenomenon in a Patient with Lupus Anticoagulant/Hypoprothrombinemia Syndrome
Authors: Pengo Vittorio , Zardo Lorena , Cattini Maria Grazia , Bison Elisa , Pontara Elena , Altinier Sara , Cheng Chunyan , Denas Gentian
Published: March 2020

Lupus anticoagulant is a misnomer as it is commonly associated with thromboembolic events. In few cases, the name retains its literal meaning when it characterizes patients with a bleeding disorder. We describe a patient with lupus anticoagulant, hypoprothrombinemia, and major bleeding (lupus anticoagulant/hypoprothrombinemia syndrome). Immunological studies revealed a huge amount of circulating monoclonal immunoglobulin M lambda (IgMλ) antiphosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies (14,400 U/mL). Affinity purified monoclonal antibodies (440 U/mL) prolonged the coagulation time of normal plasma by 12.2 seconds (diluted Russell viper venom time) and 25.5 seconds (silica clotting time). The original patient's plasma mixed 1:1 with normal plasma showed a marked prolongation of coagulation times (lupus cofactor) from a ratio of 2.94 to 5.23 in diluted Russel viper venom time and from 2.30 to 3.00 using the silica clotting time. Human prothrombin added to original patient's plasma caused a marked prolongation of coagulation times in diluted Russell viper venom test thus unequivocally explaining the lupus cofactor phenomenon. In conclusion, we have shown that lupus anticoagulant/hypoprothrombinemia syndrome is attributable to monoclonal IgMλ antibodies directed to phosphatidylserine/prothrombin and that prothrombin is the protein responsible for the observed lupus cofactor phenomenon.
A Case of Salt-Wasting Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia with Triple Homozygous Mutation: Review of Literature
Authors: Iezzi Maria Laura , Varriale Gaia , Zagaroli Luca , Lasorella Stefania , Greco Marco , Iapadre Giulia , Verrotti Alberto
Published: March 2020

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to steroid 21-hydroxylase deficiency represents a group of autosomal recessive disorders characterized by impaired cortisol production due to altered upstream steroid conversions, subclassified as classic and nonclassic forms. The genotype–phenotype correlation is possible in the most frequent case but not in all. Despite in literature many mutations are known, there is the possibility of finding a new genetic pattern in patients with CAH.
Kerosene Poisoning Complicated by Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Sanju Sidaraddi , Tullu Milind S. , Mondkar Shruti , Agrawal Mukesh
Published: March 2020

A 6-year-old male child patient was brought to the emergency pediatric room with alleged history of accidental ingestion of approximately 15 mL kerosene oil. The child developed vomiting shortly after the consumption. Chest radiograph taken 6 hours after ingestion did not show any abnormalities. On the second day of hospital stay, the patient started complaining of severe abdominal pain. His serum amylase and lipase levels were elevated significantly, suggesting the development of acute pancreatitis. He was investigated for the other possible causes of acute pancreatitis, which were normal. There is paucity of literature regarding occurrence of acute pancreatitis following kerosene poisoning, both in children, as well as adults, because of its rarity. A high index of suspicion should be kept in mind and a differential diagnosis of acute pancreatitis should be considered in cases of acute kerosene poisoning, who complain of pain in abdomen.
Reaction of Bromoenones with Amidines: A Simple Catalyst-Free Approach to Trifluoromethylated Pyrimidines
Authors: Rulev Alexander Yu. , Romanov Alexey R. , Popov Alexander V. , Kondrashov Evgeniy V. , Zinchenko Sergey V.
Published: March 2020

A facile one-pot synthesis of trifluoromethylated pyrimidines has been achieved by the treatment of fluorinated 2-bromoenones with aryl- and alkylamidines. The assembly of pyrimidine core proceeds by the cascade reactions via aza-Michael addition–intramolecular cyclization–dehydrohalogenation/dehydration sequence. This strategy is featured by high selectivity and mild reaction conditions giving the target heterocycles in high yields (up to 99%). The unique influence of trifluoromethyl group on the reaction path is demonstrated.
A Convenient Synthesis of Amidines via Cycloaddition–Decarboxylation of Isocyanates and Nitrones
Authors: Zhang Mei-Mei , Wu Yijing , Chen Xinyi
Published: March 2020

A base-promoted reaction between isocyanates and nitrones has been described, allowing an access to a variety of important functionalized amidines under mild reaction conditions. This strategy provides a convenient, effective, and scalable approach for the direct assembly of amidine compounds from simple starting materials in excellent yields.
Optimal similarity norm for electrical tomography based on Bregman divergence
Authors: Ding Mingliang , Yue Shihong , Li Jia , Li Qi , Wang Huaxiang
Published: March 2020

Electrical Tomography (ET) is an advanced visualization technique, which can reconstruct all targets in an investigated field based on boundary measurements. Since the spatial resolution in the ET process can be greatly affected by the selected similarity norm, different norms may result in different ET time and spatial resolutions. In the tomographic applications nowadays, Bregman divergence (BD) has attracted increasing attention. BDs are a family of generalized similarity norm, and they can measure the similarity/difference between any two targets more accurately. Specifically, the mostly used similarity norm in the ET process (e.g., L2-norm) is only a special case of the BD family. As the key step of applying BD to the ET process, an execution method is proposed in this paper, together with the selection criteria for the optimal norm in the BD family. Simulations and experiments were conducted, and the results show that the use of an optimal BD can effectively improve the spatial resolution of an ET image.
The role of chemical potential in compensation control in Si:AlGaN
Authors: Washiyama Shun , Reddy Pramod , Sarkar Biplab , Breckenridge Mathew H. , Guo Qiang , Bagheri Pegah , Klump Andrew , Kirste Ronny , Tweedie James , Mita Seiji , Sitar Zlatko , Collazo Ramón
Published: March 2020

Reduction in compensation in Si-doped Al-rich AlGaN is demonstrated via chemical potential control (CPC). The chemical potentials and the resulting formation energies of carbon on the nitrogen site (CN) and cation vacancy complex with Si (VIII + nSiIII) were related to growth variables through a thermodynamic supersaturation model, which quantitatively predicted the incorporation of CN and the generation of the VIII + nSiIII complex. The compensation “knee” behavior, i.e., decreasing conductivity with increasing Si incorporation beyond a certain concentration, was successfully controlled. The maximum free carrier concentration was improved by impeding the formation of VIII + nSiIII complexes under III-richer conditions, while the impurity compensation by CN was reduced by making the growth environment N-richer. The results of Hall effect measurement and photoluminescence agreed well with quantitative theoretical predictions of the CPC model. Based on the developed model, the highest conductivity of 160 Ω−1 cm−1 with free carrier concentration of 3 × 1019 cm−3 in Al0.7Ga0.3N ever reported was achieved on single crystal AlN substrates. The demonstrated predictive power of the CPC model should greatly reduce the empirical analysis or iterative experimentation that would otherwise be necessary.
Strain ratio effects in mechanical properties of supported thin films
Authors: Godard P. , Faurie D. , Renault P. O.
Published: March 2020

Metallic thin films deposited onto polymeric substrates find important technological applications as stretchable microelectronic devices. Academic research on these systems has mainly focused on uniaxial tensile tests, though biaxial stress states are generally applied during service. We study in this article the strain ratio effect on nanocrystalline 50 nm-thick gold thin films supported on a polyimide: equibiaxial applied strain vs uniaxial applied strain. The mechanical behaviors are compared with digital image correlation, x-ray diffraction, and relaxation tests, giving the true and lattice strains, insights into strain heterogeneities, and leading plasticity mechanisms. Moreover, two load–unload cycles were performed to deconvolute the different parts contributing to the signals. It is shown that though the samples were transversely isotropic (i.e., isotropic in the plane of the applied strains), the work-hardening properties are very different, the micro-plastic regime being greatly reduced in the equibiaxial test. This is illustrated with the elastic limits and with the fact that an equibiaxial test presents at equivalent von Mises strain higher stress relaxation and a decrease in strain heterogeneities.
Tuning the stress in TiN films by regulating the doubly charged ion fraction in a reactive HiPIMS discharge
Authors: Viloan Rommel Paulo B. , Lundin Daniel , Keraudy Julien , Helmersson Ulf
Published: March 2020

In the present study, we investigate the impact of pulse power (Ppulse) on the ion flux and the properties of TiN films using reactive high-power impulse magnetron sputtering. Ppulse was adjusted in the range of 5–25 kW, while keeping the total average power constant through regulating the pulsing frequency. It is found that the required N2 flow, to produce stoichiometric TiN, decreases as Ppulse is increased, which is due to a decrease in the deposition rate. The plasma conditions when stoichiometric TiN is formed were investigated in detail. In situ ion mass spectrometry measurements of the ion energy distribution functions reveal two distinct ion populations, ions originating from sputtered atoms (Ti+, Ti2+, and N+) and ions originating from the working gas (Ar+, Ar2+, and N2+). The average ion energies (Eave) of the sputtered ions show an increase with increasing Ppulse, while Eave for the gas ions remains almost unaffected. The relative flux intensity Ti2+/Ti+ showed an increasing trend, from 0.28 to 0.47, as Ppulse was increased from 5 to 25 kW. The ion flux changes affect the growth of the TiN film such that 111-textured films are grown for low Ppulse while higher Ppulse results in mixed orientations. In addition, the hardness of the deposited film increases with increasing Ppulse, while the compressive film stress increases significantly at a higher Ppulse. In this way, optimum deposition conditions were identified at Ppulse = 8.3 kW, where a relatively low compressive stress of 0.89 GPa and high hardness of 22.67 GPa were measured.
Merging of soap bubbles and why surfactant matters
Authors: Pfeiffer Patricia , Zeng Qingyun , Tan Beng Hau , Ohl Claus-Dieter
Published: March 2020

The merging of two soap bubbles is a fundamental fluid mechanical process in foam formation. In the present experimental study, the liquid films from two soap bubbles are brought together. Once the liquid layers initially separated by a gas sheet are bridged on a single spot, the rapid merging of the two liquid films proceeds. Thereby, the connecting rim is rapidly accelerated into the separating gas layer. We show that, due to the dimple formation, the velocity is not uniform and the high acceleration initially causes a Rayleigh–Taylor instability of the liquid rim. At later times, the rim heals and takes on a circular shape. However, for sufficiently high concentrations of the surfactant, the unstable rim pinches off microbubbles, resulting in a fractal dendritic structure after coalescence.
Three-dimensional model of conductivity imaging for magneto-acousto-electrical tomography
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Song Jiaxiang , Xia Hui , Li Yanhong , Liu Guoqiang
Published: March 2020

This article presents a series of three-dimensional results for Magneto-acousto-electrical Tomography (MAET), which is a hybrid imaging modality combining the merits of high contrast and high resolution. The ultrasound field and electromagnetic field are coupled to generate current density distribution inside the sample. However, three-dimensional images have not yet been realized for MAET through voltage signals detected by electrodes. In this paper, the mathematical model of MAET is analyzed, and a new image reconstruction scheme is proposed, which is verified by a numerical framework. One three-dimensional numerical model of normal and tumor tissues is formed to analyze the multiphysics problems. In the model, vibration velocity is obtained for pulse type ultrasound excitations with the duration of 0.5 μs. The static magnetic field produced by two permanent magnets is about 300 mT. In order to measure the voltage caused by the MAET effect, two electrodes are attached on the surface of the sample. A series of MAET signals are obtained when the transducer locates in different positions. The distribution of three-dimensional conductivity is recovered by the new image reconstruction scheme. The reconstructed conductivity images are consistent with the original distribution, thus verifying the effectiveness of the new image reconstruction scheme. In addition, the experiment has also validated the mathematical model and simulation results. The simulation and the experimental results indicate that the MAET has the potential to become a new tool to study the electrical properties of tumors in humans.
Multisite reversible association in membranes and solutions: From non-Markovian to Markovian kinetics
Authors: Gopich Irina V.
Published: March 2020

The role of diffusion on the kinetics of reversible association to a macromolecule with two inequivalent sites is studied. Previously, we found that, in the simplest possible description, it is not sufficient to just renormalize the rate constants of chemical kinetics, but one must introduce direct transitions between the bound states in the kinetic scheme. The physical reason for this is that a molecule that just dissociated from one site can directly rebind to the other rather than diffuse away into the bulk. Such a simple description is not valid in two dimensions because reactants can never diffuse away into the bulk. In this work, we consider a variety of more sophisticated implementations of our recent general theory that are valid in both two and three dimensions. We compare the predicted time dependence of the concentrations for a wide range of parameters and establish the range of validity of various levels of the general theory.
Complex switching behavior of magnetostatically coupled single-domain nanomagnets probed by micro-Hall magnetometry
Authors: Keswani N. , Nakajima Y. , Chauhan N. , Ukai T. , Chakraborti H. , Gupta K. D. , Hanajiri T. , Kumar S. , Ohno Y. , Ohno H. , Das P.
Published: March 2020

We report here the results of two-dimensional electron gas based micro-Hall magnetometry measurements and micromagnetic simulations of dipolar coupled nanomagnets of Ni80Fe20 arranged in a double square ring-like geometry. We observe that although magnetic force microscopy images exhibit single domain like magnetic states for the nanostructures, their reversal processes may undergo complex behavior. The details of such reversal behavior are observed as specific features in micro-Hall magnetometry data, which are comparable with the micromagnetic simulation data.
Thermoelectric transport properties in Bi-doped SnTe–SnSe alloys
Authors: Guo Xuming , Chen Zhiyu , Tang Jing , Zhang Fujie , Zhong Yan , Liu Hangtian , Ang Ran
Published: March 2020

Numerous endeavors have been made to advance thermoelectric SnTe for potential applications. Effective strategies focus on the manipulation of transport properties, including valence band convergence, resonate state, and defect engineering. It has been demonstrated that alloying trivalent Bi or chalcogenide SnSe alone in SnTe can trigger an inherent enhancement of thermoelectric performance. However, what the critical role in the transport valence band co-doping Bi and Se in SnTe plays is still unclear. Particularly, fully evaluating the effect of band convergence on the carrier concentration-dependent weighted mobility, which dominates the electronic performance, is primary and essential for designing excellent thermoelectric materials. Here, we report that Bi doping in SnTe–SnSe alloys can derive a distinct decrease in the energy offset between the two valence bands, thus improving the density-of-state effective mass by only slightly deteriorating the mobility. The well-established theoretical model reveals that the Bi-doping-induced band convergence and the optimized carrier concentration actually enhance the weighted mobility, contributing to the improvement of electronic performance. Moreover, the Debye–Callaway model demonstrates the origin of the reduced lattice thermal conductivity. The present results confirm the potential of transport engineering in promoting thermoelectric performance.