bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salinity and sugar detection system using microstrip patch antenna
Authors: Rahman Md Naimur , Islam Mohammad T. , Samsuzzaman Sobuz Md
Published: April 2018

This study proposes a microstrip patch antenna to detect salinity and sugar content in water. The microstrip antenna is a low‐cost and low‐profile antenna which is modeled to transmit and receive an electromagnetic signal. The proposed antenna consists of a circulated Psi‐shaped patch and slotted partial ground plane. The antenna is impersonated on Rogers RT/duroid 5880 material with a thickness of 1.57 mm having a relative permittivity of 2.2. The antenna has a compact dimension of 24 × 18 mm. The High‐Frequency Structural Simulator is used to simulate and analyze the proposed antenna. The antenna is used as a sensor to detect the salinity and sugar in water in terms of the reflection coefficient. The percentage of salt and sugar in water changes the dielectric properties of the solution and consequently the reflection coefficients also change. The results during the practical observations show that the reflection coefficient decreases with the increment of the percentage of salt and sugar in solution.
A 110–170 GHz spatial power‐combined frequency tripler with 5.7%–7.8% efficiency and 0.5 W power handling
Authors: Deng Jian Qin , Lu Qjjun J. , Yang Yin Tang , Zhu Zhang Ming
Published: April 2018

In this article, a novel 110–170 GHz balanced tripler is presented with high‐efficiency and high‐power handling. To implement the proposed tripler, a multilayer multiplier scheme is introduced with two‐layer parallel metal fin line transitions and four planar diodes based on spatial power combining concept. Fin line transitions are used to constitute two‐layer ridge waveguides. They divide the input signal to diodes with the same amplitude and combine the third harmonic with output waveguide. The proposed tripler eliminates the dielectric loss and has good balancing characteristic, which enable the tripler to get fabulous performances such as high power handling, high‐efficiency, excellent spectral purity, and so on. The measured results shown that the tripler achieves an efficiency of 5.7%–7.8% with 147–208 mW input power and its power handling is more than 0.5W.
Analysis and optimization of a resistive‐feedback inverter LNA
Authors: Park Jun‐Young , Lee Ji‐Young , Yeo Cheong‐Ki , Yun Tae‐Yeoul
Published: April 2018

This article presents a new transistor size rule for a resistive‐feedback inverter implemented as a low‐noise amplifier (LNA) for wideband applications. To enhance the noise figure (NF) and voltage gain (Av), the inverter LNA requires large transconductance (Gm), resulting in large current consumption (ID). The proposed large‐NMOS inverter‐LNA obtains a better power efficiency (Gm/ID) with a smaller transistor compared with the conventional large‐PMOS structure. Because there are trade‐off relationships between NF, Av, 3‐dB bandwidth, and power dissipation in the inverter‐LNA design, a figure‐of‐merit (FOM) including all of these parameters is maximized by varying the transistor size obtained from the graphical optimization. Thus, the proposed new size ratio rule achieves superior LNA performances compared to the conventional rule, as demonstrated by the theoretical analysis, simulation, optimization, and measurement. Measurements show a maximum power gain of 16.8 dB, a minimum NF of 1.84 dB, and a maximum third‐order input intercept point of −9.4 dBm over 0.05 to 1.4 GHz while the LNA consumes 9.6 mW from a 1.5 V supply. The proposed LNA is implemented using a Samsung 65‐nm RF CMOS process.
Material selection for THz antennas
Authors: Dash Sasmita , Patnaik Amalendu
Published: April 2018

THz antennas are gaining interest in many applications. In this article, we compared the performance of THz antennas made up of copper, graphene, and carbon nanotube in a view to choose a suitable material for effective THz antennas. Material properties of these possible materials are analyzed to justify the electromagnetic performance of antennas made out of these materials. A typical dipole antenna with 1THz resonant frequency is used as the candidate antenna to make the comparisons. The graphene antenna shows better electromagnetic performance with their counterparts.
Self‐decoupled compact metal‐frame LTE MIMO antennas for the smartphone
Authors: Wong Kin‐Lu , Wan Che‐Chi , Chen Li‐Yu
Published: April 2018

Two self‐decoupled, closely‐spaced, metal‐frame LTE MIMO antennas with compact frame lengths to fit in the short edge of the metal‐framed smartphone are presented. The 2 MIMO antennas include a first antenna covering the LTE low band (LB) in 824–960 MHz and LTE middle/high band (M/HB) in 1710–2690 MHz and a second antenna covering the LTE M/HB in 1710–2690 MHz. With a small ground clearance of 5 mm, the first antenna uses a radiating metal frame (frame 1) of length 47 mm to cover the LTE L/M/HB, while the second antenna uses a radiating metal frame (frame 2) of 23.4 mm for the LTE M/HB coverage. In addition, frames 1 and 2 are closely spaced with a gap of 2 mm only. Wideband decoupling between the 2 antennas for the 2 × 2 MIMO operation in the LTE M/HB is obtained with frame 2 serving as an inherent decoupling structure. That is, frame 2 not only functions as a radiator of the second antenna but also serves as a decoupling structure to attract the surface currents on the system ground plane which causes the coupling of the 2 antennas. Applications of applying another 2 MIMO antennas at the opposite short edge of the smartphone for the 4 × 4 LTE M/HB and 2 × 2 LTE LB MIMO operations are also addressed.
Wideband and high gain antenna arrays for UAV‐to‐UAV and UAV‐to‐ground communication in flying ad‐hoc networks (FANETs)
Authors: Mustaqim Muhammad , Khawaja Bilal A. , Razzaqi Asghar A. , Zaidi Syed Sajjad H. , Jawed Syed A. , Qazi Sameer H.
Published: April 2018

A directional 1 × 2 and 2 × 2 microstrip patch antenna array is proposed for UAV‐to‐UAV and UAV‐to‐ground communication in next generation flying ad‐hoc networks (FANETs). The antenna arrays resonate in the 5 GHz frequency band. These antennas were designed and simulated using Agilent ADS Momentum using Rogers RT/Duroid 5880LZ substrate (ɛr = 1.96 and h = 2.54 mm). A hybrid feed technique is used for the antenna arrays with a quarter‐wave transformer‐based network to match the impedance from the feed‐point to the antenna to 50 Ω. The antenna is optimized to achieve directional radiation pattern by introducing two symmetrical slots at the non‐radiating edges of the patch. The gain achieved for the single‐element antenna, 1 × 2 and 2 × 2 antenna arrays are 7.5 dBi, 9.4 dBi, and 10.8 dBi, respectively, which are ideal for FANET applications to perform communication between the swarms of quad‐rotor copter (QRC) type UAVs. The antenna array design is less complex and can be used for the advanced antenna beam‐steering systems in next generation FANETs.
Wideband dual‐bandpass 0.18‐µm CMOS SPDT switch utilizing dual‐band resonator concept
Authors: Um Youngman , Nguyen Cam
Published: April 2018

A fully integrated wideband concurrent dual‐band single‐pole double‐throw (SPDT) switch with integrated dual‐band band‐pass filtering has been developed over two wide bandwidths around 24 and 60 GHz in a 0.18‐µm SiGe BiCMOS process. The developed concurrent dual‐wideband SPDT switch is configured to make it approximately equivalent to a dual‐band resonator in the on‐state operation. It exhibits measured insertion losses and isolations of 5.4 and 31.4 dB, and 5.2 and 16.5 dB at 24 and 60 GHz, respectively. The measured peak stop‐band rejection between the two pass‐bands is 26 dB at 42.3 GHz. With single‐tone 24‐ or 60‐GHz input, the measured input 1‐dB compression points (P1dB) are 20.4 and 17.1 dBm at 24 and 60 GHz, respectively. For concurrent dual‐tone 24‐ and 60‐GHz input, the measured input P1dBs are 17 and 14.5 dBm at 24 and 60 GHz, respectively. The measured input third‐order intercept points are 29.4 and 26.8 dBm at 24 and 60 GHz, respectively.
Dual‐band WLAN MIMO antenna with a decoupling element for full‐metallic bottom cover tablet computer applications
Authors: Chou Jui‐Hung , Chang Jo‐Fan , Lin Ding‐Bing , Wu Tzong‐Lin
Published: April 2018

A MIMO antenna system based on two dual‐band loop‐slot combination antennas for Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) applications is proposed. The decoupling element for enhancing the port isolation is based on the neutralization line technique. The bandwidth of operation of the proposed antenna covers both the WLAN 2.4 GHz (2.4–2.484 GHz) and 5 GHz (5.15–5.85 GHz) frequency bands using a −10 dB definition. The isolation between the two closed placed antennas is improved to −16 and −23 dB in the WLAN 2.4 and 5 GHz bands, respectively. The size of the proposed antenna is only 60 × 7.5 × 4.5 mm3 with a metal bottom cover underneath and an LCD panel nearby. Good radiation performance, as quantified by the antenna gain and antenna efficiency, is achieved.
A design of equilateral triangular ring SIW cavity‐backed slot antenna for multiband applications
Authors: Wu Yanjie , Zhang Bing , Ding Kang , Li Jianfeng , Wu Duolong , Wang Kun
Published: April 2018

An equilateral triangle ring slot antenna with substrate‐integrated waveguide (SIW) cavity‐backed and multiband characteristics is presented in this article. The proposed antenna consists of an equilateral triangular‐ring slot on the top layer of the substrate, an equilateral triangular ground plane on the bottom and an equilateral triangle SIW cavity. The proposed antenna is fed by a probe. By tuning the position of feeding point, four bands are generated by four different modes which are TM10, TM22, TM12, and TM33. The measured results of the prototype have a good agreement with simulation.
Design of multioctave power amplifiers based on high order resistive‐reactive series of continuous modes
Authors: Yang Zhenxing , Li Mingyu , Yao Yao , Jin Yi , Zhu Mingdong , Jiang Weiliang , Wang Yifan , Li Zhengzhou
Published: April 2018

In this article, the high order resistive‐reactive series of continuous modes (H‐R‐R‐SCMs) approach is presented to design multioctave bandwidth power amplifiers (PAs). By introducing the high order resistive term, the ranges of the second harmonic impedances are expanded, which will be very effective for designing the multioctave bandwidth PAs. Based on the proposed method, a broadband high‐efficiency PA working from 0.5 to 3.1 GHz (144% relative bandwidth) is designed. According to the measured results, the PA achieves 12.0–14.3 dB power gain and 12.6–21.4 W output saturation power in the operation band. The drain efficiency varies from 56.3 to 76.6% over the whole multioctave bandwidth.
A method to improve phase noise of oscillator based on triangular SIW resonators
Authors: Du Heng , Yu Xutao , Zhang Hui , Chen Peng
Published: April 2018

In this letter, a double cavity high‐mode substrate integrated resonator (DMSIR) is proposed to design a low phase noise X‐band oscillator. The proposed DMSIR is realized by 2 equilateral triangular substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) cavities, and each triangular SIW cavity operates in high‐order mode. The weak coupling in the high‐order mode of the 2 cavities is performed to improve load Q value and reduce phase noise. To validate this method, the oscillators based on the single cavity high‐mode substrate integrated resonator and fundamental mode substrate integrated resonator are designed and implemented, respectively. Measured results show that, the oscillator based on the DMSIR exhibits the lowest phase noise of −143.1 dBc/Hz @ 1 MHz from oscillation frequency of 10.059 GHz, and the figure of merit is −207.5 dBc/Hz.
A wideband 3 decibels arbitrary phase difference branch line coupler
Authors: Gao Liang , Zheng Shao Yong
Published: April 2018

A wideband 3 dB branch line coupler with arbitrary phase difference between output ports is proposed. The wideband properties in both amplitude and phase are achieved by utilizing λ/4 coupled line sections. By designing different even and odd impedance of the coupled line matched in different ports, small phase imbalance can be achieved. For validation, two 3 dB couplers with different phase differences (60° and 120°) were designed and fabricated. They were measured to exhibit wide bandwidths of 40.2% and 44.6%, respectively.
Microwave imaging with noise waveforms using FDTD time reversal method
Authors: AlAjmi Ayed R. , Saed Mohammad A.
Published: April 2018

This article presents a microwave imaging method based on the time‐reversed finite‐difference time‐domain method (FDTD‐TR) that enhances immunity to undesired interference and jamming signals. The method uses random noise as the source waveform that illuminates the imaging area. Signals scattered by objects in the imaging area are collected on a planar grid, followed by processing through a correlation operation, and then used in the FDTD‐TR algorithm to construct images on any desired plane in the computational domain. The method capability in suppressing interference noise is demonstrated through successful reconstruction of images for a test case consisting of a dielectric object behind a wall. The method is compared to conventional FDTD‐TR methods that fail the same image reconstruction test.
Multibit RFID tag with wideband circular polarization antenna
Authors: Taskhiri Mohammad M. , Soleimani Mohamad , Hashemi Seyed M.
Published: April 2018

In this article, a multibit radio‐frequency identification tag with a wide band antenna is presented. The tag consists of a dual polarization antenna and cascade of spiral resonators. Both linear and circular polarizations are involved in this type of tag. Tag orientation in front of reader and the number of used antennas are improved in this work. The tag operations are validated by fullwave software. The proposed tag is fabricated. The simulated and measured results indicate good performance of tag in a wide frequency bandwidth.
Tunable compact microstrip dual‐band bandpass filter with tapered resonators
Authors: Khani Shiva , Mousavi Seyed Mohammad Hadi , Danaie Mohammad , Rezaei Pejman
Published: April 2018

By exploiting bended microstrip lines and tapered resonators, a new microstrip dual‐band bandpass filter (DBBPF) with tunable center frequency and compact size is proposed, analyzed, and fabricated. The LC equivalent circuit of the basic resonator is introduced to present an analytical description. The proposed filter has two passbands at the center frequencies of 2.4 and 5.7 GHz. The measured data show <0.22 and 0.56 dB insertion losses in the first and second bands, respectively, which are considered as a marked advantage. Furthermore, without increasing the circuit size, the second band can be tuned between 3.85 and 7.5 GHz. Finally, an acceptable similarity is observed between the simulated and measured S‐parameters.
Planar quasi‐isotropic antenna for drone communication
Authors: Imran Hussain Shah Syed , Tentzeris Manos M. , Lim Sungjoon
Published: April 2018

In this article, a planar antenna with quasi‐isotropic radiation pattern is proposed for applications in drone communication. The proposed antenna consists of top‐loaded monopole and slotted loop antennas. The top‐loaded monopole provides a monopole‐like radiation pattern with a planar profile. To compensate for nulls in the monopole radiation pattern, a slotted loop antenna is added. Therefore, when two radiation patterns are combined, a quasi‐isotropic pattern is achieved with a low profile thickness of 7.2 mm. The performance of the proposed antenna is verified by simulation and experimental results. The antenna's 10‐dB impedance bandwidth is in the range of 2–2.4 GHz. The quasi‐isotropic radiation pattern is verified from both simulation and measured results.
Very‐low‐profile, 2.4/5‐GHzWLAN monopole antenna for large screen‐to‐body‐ratio notebook computers
Authors: Su Saou‐Wen
Published: April 2018

A very‐low‐profile, 2.4/5‐GHz monopole antenna well suited for large screen‐to‐body‐ratio notebook computers with an ultra‐thin bezel for wireless local area network (WLAN) applications is presented. The antenna height was 4 mm only, and the design was constructed on a low‐cost dielectric substrate of size 4 mm × 30 mm to be easily placed within the ultra‐thin bezel surrounding the top edge of the notebook computer display. The antenna consisted of two radiating arms of unequal lengths to generate the lower and the higher bands. By properly loading each radiating arm with a shorting chip inductor, the proposed antenna was capable of generating the 2.4‐GHz (2400–2484 MHz) and the 5‐GHz (5150–5825 MHz) WLAN bands with a very low antenna profile. Good radiation characteristics were also obtained. The proposed design provides a feasible solution to the internal small antennas demanded by the current trend of the thin‐bezel notebook computers.
A novel gene‐family involved in spermatophore generation in the economically important salmon louse Lepeophtheirus salmonis
Authors: Borchel Andreas , Nilsen Frank
Published: April 2018

The salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) is an important parasite of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). It is widely spread in aquaculture facilities and leads to economic losses every year. As it has developed resistances against many common treatments, new control methods must be established. Here we characterize a novel gene family of the salmon louse, consisting of two genes, which has not been described in other species before. We analyzed temporal expression patterns of both genes, the localization of mRNA and protein. An RNAi mediated gene knockdown lead to information about the function of the protein. Overall, these two genes are expressed only in sperm ducts of male sea lice. The mucin‐like proteins can additionally be found in the wall of spermatophores, which are responsible for sperm transfer to females. Knockdown showed that both genes are essential for successful fertilization of females. Overall, all results indicate that the two analyzed genes are necessary for reproduction in sea lice as they are essential for the formation of a wall surrounding the spermatophores, which is needed for fertilization. Therefore, we name them Mucin‐like spermatophore wall protein 1 & 2 (MLSWP1 & MLSWP2). Analysis of sequence data from other copepod species suggests that MLSWPs are present in many copepod species and may also play a similar role in reproduction in those species.
Sexual Dimorphism in Pelvic Fin Length of Two Endangered Freshwater Atherinopsid Species with High Aquaculture Potential
Authors: Martínez-Chávez C Cristian , Alarcón-Silva Eugenia M , Martínez-Palacios Carlos A , Navarrete-Ramírez Pamela , Raggi Luciana , Corona-Herrera Guillermo A , López García Jesús , Strüssmann Carlos A , Ross Lindsay G
Published: April 2018

The endemic Mexican silversides of Lake Pátzcuaro (Pike Silverside Chirostoma estor) and Lake Chapala (Blacknose Silverside C. promelas) are endangered fish species of great socioeconomic importance in the region. Since the last decade, much progress has been made to close the life cycle in captivity and in promoting the aquaculture of these species. The lack of standardized husbandry and broodstock management practices, including sex discrimination, is a bottleneck to the commercial culture of these species. Recent observations have suggested a possible difference between the length of the pelvic fins of males and females. To explore these observations, biometric measurements were taken from Pike Silverside and Blacknose Silverside broodstocks, comprising body weight, SL, distance from the base of the pelvic fin to the genital pore (BPF), and distance from the tip of pelvic fin to the genital pore (TPF). The latter measurements were used to calculate the TPF/BPF ratio. Sex-specific differences were found in BPF, TPF, and TPF/BPF for both species, clearly indicating a sexually dimorphic characteristic not previously reported in any atherinopsid. This study reveals for the first time the presence of a noticeable sexually dimorphic and externally evident trait in two closely related atherinopsid species, which provides a simple morphometric technique for sex discrimination that minimizes manipulation and thus avoids overstressing or killing the fish.
Therapeutic effect of TAC‐302, a cyclohexenoic fatty alcohol derivative, on bladder denervation‐related storage and voiding dysfunctions in rats
Authors: Yoshida Shohei , Noma Takahisa , Miyoshi Kazuhisa , Tsukihara Hiroshi , Orimoto Naoki , Hakozaki Atsushi , Sasaki Eiji
Published: April 2018

Aims

To evaluate the therapeutic effect of TAC‐302, a cyclohexenoic fatty alcohol derivative, on bladder denervation‐related storage and voiding dysfunctions in rats with bladder outlet obstruction (BOO).

Methods

BOO was achieved by partial ligature of the proximal urethra in female rats. Two weeks later, BOO rats were divided into two groups and treated orally with vehicle or 10 mg/kg TAC‐302 twice a day for 4 weeks. Urodynamic and immunohistochemical evaluation of the bladder muscle layer was performed. In another study, the BOO rats were treated with intravenous tamsulosin at cystometry. The detrusor contractility in each group was evaluated using the modified Shafer's nomogram.

Results

Two weeks after BOO, the rats showed significant increases in non‐voiding contraction (NVCs) and residual urine volume (RUV) compared to the sham group. Moreover, 6 weeks after BOO, BOO vehicle rats showed significant increases in NVCs and RUV and decreases in detrusor contractility and in the nerve fiber density in the urinary bladder compared to the sham group. BOO‐induced denervation of the urinary bladder was partially improved by oral treatment with TAC‐302. Oral treatment with TAC‐302 significantly reduced the amplitude and frequency of NVCs (P < 0.05) and increased detrusor contractility and tended to reduce RUV compared with the BOO vehicle group. In contrast, the intravenous administration of tamsulosin significantly reduced the frequency of NVCs, but not RUV.

Conclusions

TAC‐302 improved storage and voiding dysfunctions by improving bladder denervation and detrusor underactivity even when the treatment was started after storage and voiding dysfunctions had already occurred.
Complications after minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy with and without concomitant incontinence surgery: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database study
Authors: Clancy Aisling A. , Mallick Ranjeeta , Breau Rodney H. , Khalil Hisham , Hickling Duane R.
Published: April 2018

Aims

To compare surgical complications for patients having minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy (MISCP) with concomitant incontinence procedure, to those having MISCP alone.

Methods

Patients undergoing MISCP with and without a concomitant incontinence procedure between 2006 and 2015 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database using Current Procedural Terminology codes. The main outcome of interest was a composite of surgical site infection, bleeding requiring blood transfusion, return to the operating room within 30 days, and surgical stay >48 h. Log‐binomial regression was used to identify independent risk factors for the outcome and to generate adjusted effect measures for variables of interest.

Results

Seven thousand ninety‐seven women met the inclusion criteria, of which 2433 (34%) underwent a concomitant incontinence procedure. Patients having incontinence procedures were slightly older (59 ± 11 vs 58 ± 12, P < 0.0001) and had longer total operating time (225 IQR 170‐267 vs 184 IQR 120‐232 min, P < 0.0001). Pre‐operative steroid use, wound class III/IV (vs I/II), and longer operative time were independent predictors of the composite outcome. After adjusting for baseline patient characteristics and co‐morbidities, no association was observed between concomitant incontinence procedure and the composite outcome (adjusted RR 0.87, 95%CI 0.65‐1.18) but there was an increased likelihood of urinary tract infection (adjusted RR 2.47 95%CI 1.89‐3.27).

Conclusions

Despite being associated with a longer operative time, performing an incontinence procedure at the time of MSCIP was not associated with an increased risk of clinically important surgical complications other than urinary tract infection.
Preparation and evaluation of poly glycerol sebacate/poly hydroxy butyrate core‐shell electrospun nanofibers with sequentially release of ciprofloxacin and simvastatin in wound dressings
Authors: Heydari Parisa , Varshosaz Jaleh , Zargar Kharazi Anousheh , Karbasi Saeed
Published: April 2018

Biodegradable wound dressing of poly glycerol sebacate/poly hydroxy butyrate was fabricated via the coaxial electrospinning process. Simvastatin and ciprofloxacin were loaded in the core and shell of the fibers, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images showed a uniform core/shell structure. Introducing drugs into the polymers would cause the dressing samples to become more hydrophilic and degradation to occur faster. Drugs release would face no interventions, in which, approximately 60% of ciprofloxacin was released during the first 24 hours. Simvastatin exhibited a slower and controlled release behavior, with its release peak recorded after 2 days. The drug‐containing samples showed a proper bactericidal activity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. It may be concluded that the drug‐laden wound dressing fabricated in this study is capable of releasing the 2 drugs sequentially and that it is the ideal conditions for controlling infections and reducing wound healing duration.
Identifying risks, costs, and lessons from ARENA‐funded off‐grid renewable energy projects in regional Australia
Authors: Herteleer Bert , Dobb Anthony , Boyd Olivia , Rodgers Steven , Frearson Lyndon
Published: April 2018

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has provided grant funding to 18 off‐grid and fringe‐of‐grid renewable energy projects under the Regional Australia's Renewables (RAR) program since 2013. This program was designed to address real and perceived risks associated with early stage, precommercial renewable energy development and provide a foundation of demonstration projects to enable the development of a competitive renewable energy sector. These projects range from low to high renewable energy fractions at megawatt scale in remote regions of Australia and encompass a variety of sectors, such as mining, tourism, and remote communities. All projects use photovoltaic as a key technology, often supplemented by additional technologies. The experience from these projects shows that land acquisition, technical integration, stakeholder engagement, and access to finance are among the main reasons for project delivery delays. A qualitative assessment for the remoteness premium is given, based on a comparison of ARENA‐funded on‐grid and off‐grid projects. This indicates that the structural barriers of governance, supply chains, and finance need to be tackled further to lower soft costs. One of the key enablers for future lower renewable energy costs is ARENA's Knowledge Sharing model, through which the funding agency is recompensed by data and information that is provided to the market and increases the impact of ARENA funding.
Examining between‐group and within‐group effects of a peer‐assisted reading strategies intervention
Authors: Völlinger Vanessa A. , Supanc Marina , Brunstein Joachim C.
Published: April 2018

The present study sought to evaluate the effects of a reading strategy instructional program on the reading competence of third‐grade students. Students were instructed in fluent and strategic reading by trained research assistants in whole class settings and subsequently worked on expository text material together with peers. Their reading competence was assessed continuously: in the baseline phase prior to the intervention (4 times), while the intervention was in place (8 times), and after the end of the intervention (4 times). Additionally, reading competence in the wait list control students was assessed 8 times during the same time period. Accordingly, within‐ and between‐group comparisons of students’ test scores were conducted on the data, with both resulting in significant positive effects on the reading competence of intervention students. This research provides an example of how to strengthen the validity of quasiexperimental intervention research through the addition of design features like multiple measurement points.
Retention and persistence of African‐American students in school psychology programs
Authors: Proctor Sherrie L. , Nasir Afshan , Wilson Tossea , Li Kathrynne , Castrillon Paola
Published: April 2018

This qualitative study investigated eight African‐American specialist‐level students’ experiences with and perceptions of their retention and persistence toward degree completion in school psychology programs. Findings indicate that participants deemed the general supports faculty offered to all students and positive, supportive relationships with faculty as retention strategies they experienced as effective and access to diversity in support systems as a retention strategy they perceived would be beneficial. Participants described social engagement and reliance on family and classmates as persistence strategies they used. Based on these findings, the article provides recommendations for school psychology faculty interested in retaining African‐American students and African‐American students who aim to persist to degree completion.
Interaction among variants in the SLC gene family (SLC6A14, SLC26A9, SLC11A1, and SLC9A3) and CFTR mutations with clinical markers of cystic fibrosis
Authors: Pereira Stephanie V. N. , Ribeiro Jose D. , Bertuzzo Carmen S. , Marson Fernando A. L.
Published: April 2018

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is due to dysfunction of the CFTR channel and function of this channel is, in turn, affected by modifier genes that can impact the clinical phenotype. In this context, we analyzed the interaction among rs3788766*SLC6A14, rs7512462*SLC26A9, rs17235416*SLC11A1, and rs17563161*SLC9A3 variants, CFTR mutations and 40 CF severity markers by the Multifactor Dimensionality Reduction (MDR) model.

Methods

A total of 164 patients with CF were included in the study. The variants in the modifier genes were identified by real‐time PCR and the genotype of the CFTR gene in the diagnostic routine. Analysis of interaction between variants, CFTR mutations groupings and demographic, clinical and laboratory data were performed by the MDR.

Results

There were interaction between the rs3788766, rs7512462, rs17235416, and rs17563161 variants, and CFTR mutations with pancreatic insufficiency (PI), onset of digestive symptoms, and presence of mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Regarding PI, the interaction was observed for CFTR*rs17563161 (P‐value = 0.015). Also, for onset of digestive symptoms the interaction was observed for CFTR*rs3788766*rs7512462*rs17235416*rs17563161 (P‐value = 0.036). Considering the presence of mucoid P. aeruginosa, the interaction occurred for CFTR*rs3788766*rs7512462*rs17563161 (P‐value = 0.035).

Conclusion

Interaction between variants in the SLC family genes and the grouping for CFTR mutations were associated with PI, onset of digestive symptoms and mucoid P. aeruginosa, being important to determine one of the factors that may cause the diversity among the patients with CF.
Children with severe acute asthma admitted to Dutch PICUs: A changing landscape
Authors: Boeschoten Shelley A. , Buysse Corinne M. P. , Merkus Peter J. F. M. , van Wijngaarden Jacob M. C. , Heisterkamp Sabien G. J. , de Jongste Johan C. , van Rosmalen Joost , Cochius‐den Otter Suzan C. M. , Boehmer Annemie L. M. , de Hoog Matthijs ,   on behalf of SKIC Dutch collaborative PICU research network
Published: April 2018

The number of children requiring pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission for severe acute asthma (SAA) around the world has increased.

Objectives

We investigated whether this trend in SAA PICU admissions is present in the Netherlands.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective cohort study across all tertiary care PICUs in the Netherlands. Inclusion criteria were children (2‐18 years) hospitalized for SAA between 2003 and 2013. Data included demographic data, asthma diagnosis, treatment, and mortality.

Results

In the 11‐year study period 590 children (660 admissions) were admitted to a PICU with a threefold increase in the number of admissions per year over time. The severity of SAA seemed unchanged, based on the first blood gas, length of stay and mortality rate (0.6%). More children received highflow nasal cannula (P < 0.001) and fewer children needed invasive ventilation (P < 0.001). In 58% of the patients the maximal intravenous (IV) salbutamol infusion rate during PICU admission was 1 mcg/kg/min. However, the number of patients treated with IV salbutamol in the referring hospitals increased significantly over time (P = 0.005). The proportion of steroid‐naïve patients increased from 35% to 54% (P = 0.004), with a significant increase in both age groups (2‐4 years [P = 0.026] and 5‐17 years [P = 0.036]).

Conclusions

The number of children requiring PICU admission for SAA in the Netherlands has increased. We speculate that this threefold increase is explained by an increasing number of steroid‐naïve children, in conjunction with a lowered threshold for PICU admission, possibly caused by earlier use of salbutamol IV in the referring hospitals.
Lethal fibrosing mediastinitis in a child possibly due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Goussard Pierre , Gie Robert P. , Janson Jacque
Published: April 2018

Fibrosing mediastinitis (FM) is a rare benign disease resulting from an excessive fibro‐inflammatory reaction in the mediastinum that can compress and occlude mediastinal structures. There is a granulomatous and a diffuse non‐granulomatous form of FM. We present a case of granulomatous FM following possible tuberculosis in a young child who presented with severe compression of the airways, pulmonary artery and the superior vena cava (SVC), unresponsive to treatment, resulting in death. Bronchoscopic findings included concentric narrowing and mucosal hyperaemia of the tracheobronchial airways. This case raises awareness of this rare complication and the limited treatment options available.
Earlier use of androgen receptor‐axis‐targeted drugs may improve overall survival in patients with non‐metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Mori Keiichiro , Kimura Takahiro , Ito Kagenori , Onuma Hajime , Tanaka Masatoshi , Matsuura Taishi , Kurokawa Gaku , Iwatani Kosuke , Inaba Yuzo , Sakanaka Keigo , Sasaki Hiroshi , Miki Jun , Shimomura Tatsuya , Miki Kenta , Egawa Shin
Published: April 2018

Background

To evaluate the role of androgen receptor‐axis‐targeted drugs (ARAT) in non‐metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) versus mCRPC.

Methods

Chemotherapy‐naive patients (n = 114) with CRPC who had no metastasis at the time of diagnosis were included in this retrospective study. All patients were treated with ARAT at Jikei University and its affiliated hospitals from July 2014 to March 2017. The patients were stratified into nmCRPC (n = 81) and mCRPC (n = 33) groups according to their metastatic status at ARAT induction. The primary outcome measure was difference in overall survival (OS) between groups from the time of CRPC diagnosis. The patients were compared for progression‐free survival (PFS) and prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) response. The predictors of OS were explored by a multivariate Cox model.

Results

The baseline demographics did not differ significantly between the groups. The median observation period from the diagnosis of CRPC was 24.5 months (range: 3‐135) and 20 months (range: 1‐66) in nmCRPC and mCRPC groups, respectively. The nmCRPC group demonstrated better OS from the time of diagnosis of CRPC in Kaplan‐Meier analysis than mCRPC group (86 months vs 40 months; P = 0.004), with similar results obtained for PFS (P = 0.048) and PSA response (P = 0.0014). Multivariate analysis demonstrated non‐metastatic status, low PSA, and long PSA doubling time (PSADT) at ARAT induction as the significant predictors of longer OS (P = 0.044, 0.0001, and 0.026, respectively).

Conclusions

Early use of ARAT may improve OS, PFS, and PSA response in CRPC. Larger, prospective studies will be required to confirm our findings.
Forecast sensitivity observation impact with an observation‐only based objective function
Authors: Cardinali Carla
Published: April 2018

Over recent years, the forecast sensitivity observation impact tool has been used to quantify the impact of the assimilated observations on 24 h short‐range forecasts. The verification field used to compute the forecast error is the analysis and the forecast error objective function is the total energy norm. However, the analysis includes contributions not only from observations but also from the model employed; it can thus be influenced by biases in the model. In this article, an observation‐only based verification is proposed using a large variety of both space‐ and surface‐based meteorological observations, opportunely normalized by their variances. A comprehensive comparison between the standard forecast sensitivity observation impact based on an analysis‐energy and the observation‐only forecast error objective function is presented. The comparison shows a general agreement on the observation impact ranking derived from both measures with some differences due to the different normalization used in the two objective functions and due to the effect of model biases on the analysis‐energy objective function. It is also found that the number of assimilated observations that reduce the forecast error is on average 1% higher when the observation‐based forecast verification is used.
Closure of a bronchopleural fistula complicating cryoprobe biopsy of the lung
Authors: Mehta Rahul H. , Hoag Jeffrey , Borah Amit , Abramian Emil
Published: April 2018

Cryoprobe biopsies are routinely performed by the interventional pulmonologist. Diagnostic yields are larger, with complication rates that are equal to or lower than that of traditional forceps biopsies. We will specifically evaluate one instance where a cryoprobe biopsy led to an alveolo‐pleural fistula that did not resolve with simple tube thoracostomy. An endobronchial valve was placed and successfully resolved the pneumothorax and persistent air leak.
Strategic entrepreneurial orientation: Configurations, performance, and the effects of industry and time
Authors: McKenny Aaron F. , Short Jeremy C. , Ketchen David J. , Payne G. Tyge , Moss Todd W.
Published: April 2018

Research Summary: Strategic entrepreneurship research has sought to understand how firms' entrepreneurial behaviors and decision making influence firm performance. Generally this research has treated entrepreneurial orientation (EO) as consisting of dimensions that independently influence firm performance. This approach conflicts with conceptual and empirical work suggesting that managers embrace complex knowledge structures. Taking a configurational perspective that accounts for relations among the EO dimensions, we analyze a longitudinal sample of 399 firms in four technology industries to reveal how different EO patterns—identified using fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis—lead to higher or lower firm performance based on industrial‐, temporal‐, and measurement‐related factors.

Managerial Summary: A firm's entrepreneurial orientation consists of its relative emphasis on autonomy, competitive aggressiveness, innovativeness, proactiveness, and risk taking. Do companies intentionally emphasize different aspects of entrepreneurship? Our analysis suggests that they do and that different patterns developed by companies have implications for their performance. Our work suggests managers should develop a profile of entrepreneurial dimensions that fit well in their industry. For instance, firms in growing yet stable industries tend to perform well when they emphasize autonomy and competitive aggressiveness and focus less on innovativeness, proactiveness, and risk taking. In contrast, this approach would not lead to high performance in more hostile industries where innovativeness is essential.
Ultra‐Sensitive Detection of Proteins Using Chemically Modified Nanoporous PVDF Membrane with Attenuated Near IR Autofluorescence
Authors: Padmavathy Nagarajan , Das Ghosh Lopamudra , Sharma Maya , Remanan Mr. Sanjay , Chatterjee Kaushik , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: April 2018

We report the lowest autofluorescent nanoporous polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes exhibit near infra‐red (NIR) emission properties for western blot detection of high and low molecular weight proteins. The design involves post modification of PVDF membranes by an alkali treatment that reduces the native of PVDF at 450–520 nm. The background fluorescence of these modified membranes is eight times lower than the commercial available PVDF membranes and displayed NIR emission at 750 nm. Imparted alkene conjugated double bonds in the polymeric backbone by alkali treatment causes the NIR emission in the modified PVDF membranes and this translates improvement in detection of, in particular, high molecular weight proteins (130 kDa) compared to traditional western blot. To validate the pore size effect, two different pores sized (∼100 nm and ∼0.8 μm) PVDF membranes were prepared, surface modified and subjected for protein profiling. High linearity was achieved in detection of high molecular weight proteins and significant protein binding was noticed for the alkali treated membranes of ∼∼100 nm size. The methodology permits the design of modified PVDF membranes with lesser pore size could be an alternative for existing membranes with minimal autofluorescence for efficient and quick detection of high molecular weight proteins.
Electroless Growth of High Surface Area Au Dendrites with Corrugated Edge Structure for Hybrid Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Avasthi Piyush , Balakrishnan Viswanath
Published: April 2018

Energy storage applications demand for high surface area materials having moderate conducting nature along with redox behavior for increased energy density and power density. We report, development of hybrid material of dendritic Au structure coated with iron oxide with high surface area that combines both electric double layer capacitance and pseudocapacitance. One step electroless method is used for the rapid growth of gold dendritic microstructure followed by sputter coating of Fe2O3 to make hybrid material for supercapacitor application. Time dependent growth evolution reveals that the dendritic stem and lateral branches grow in length as a function of time. The lateral branches are found to be few tens of nm thick with sub 100 nm spacing among each other, providing high surface area as well as high catalytic activity. Electrochemical measurements confirm significant increase in supercapacitive performance including delayed discharging time and improved energy density (3.87 μWhr/cm2). Dendritic Au‐Fe2O3 hybrid materials can be a suitable candidate for energy storage material in normal and harsh operating conditions due to its microstructural stability and noble nature.
Supramolecular Interactions of Bambus[6]urils with Quinoline and 6‐Hydroxyisoquinoline Hydrochloride Salts
Authors: Yang Xi , Cong Hang , Yan Shan , Wang Zhong‐Cai , Li Jia‐Xing , Tao Zhu
Published: April 2018

The host‐guest interactions of bambus[6]uril and dodeca(4‐carboxybenzyl)bambus[6]uril with quinoline and 6‐hydroxyisoquinoline hydrochloride salts have been investigated by means of 1H NMR, fluorescence emission spectroscopy and molecular simulation. The 1H NMR spectra confirmed the host‐guest interactions through changes in the proton signals of the guests in the presence of the host. The changes of fluorescence emissions of guests upon addition of increasing amounts of bambus[6]uril suggested the formation of host‐guest complexes in a ratio of 1:1. Additionally, calculations with a semi‐empirical PM6‐D3H4 method provided insight into structures of the supramolecular complexes.
A Novel and One‐pot Green Synthesis of Vanadium Oxide Nanorods Using a Phytomolecule Isolated from Phyllanthus amarus
Authors: Prasad Kollur Shiva , Shivamallu Chandan , Shruthi Govindaraju , Prasad Melvin
Published: April 2018

The nanorods of vanadium oxide (V2O5) is synthesized by environmentally benign synthetic approach using a phytomolecule, 4‐(3‐(3,4‐dimethoxybenzyl)‐4‐methoxy‐2‐(methoxymethyl)butyl)‐3,6‐dimethoxybenzene‐1,2‐diol, isolated from Phyllanthus amarus. The rod shaped V2O5 nanostructures with the widths about 10–60 nm and the lengths reaching up to 1.5 μm was evident from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. The orthorhombic structure of V2O5 is apparent from X‐ray diffraction (XRD) results. Furthermore, the crystalline nature of V2O5 nanorods was supported by the results of high‐resolution TEM (HRTEM) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) analysis, which showed that the interplanar distance between two lattice fringes is 0.33 nm corresponding to (001) reflection plane. The X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) studies revealed that the peak at 533.6 eV indicates the presence of metal oxide and also confirms that the oxidation state of vanadium in as‐prepared V2O5 is V5+. The scission of supercoiled plasmid DNA was observed from 2D gel‐image, which clearly indicated that the propensity of plasmid cleavage increases with increase in concentration of V2O5 nanorods. Interestingly, high degree of cell viability with relatively less cytotoxicity was observed for V2O5 nanorods than phytomolecule in comparison with standard drug, Methotrexate against breast cancer cell line MDA MB 231 and MCF 12 A human cell line, respectively.
Synthesis, Structure and Anion Sensing Properties of a Dicationic Bis(imidazolium)‐Based Cyclophane
Authors: Sabater Paula , Zapata Fabiola , Caballero Antonio , Alkorta Ibon , Ramirez de Arellano Carmen , Elguero Jose , Molina Pedro
Published: April 2018

The preparation and sensing properties of a tetracyclic cyclophane receptor containing two imidazolium rings as anion binding sites and two fluorene rings as fluorescent signaling units, are reported. The receptor behaves as a selective fluorescent chemosensor molecule for inorganic phosphates. 1H‐NMR spectroscopical data clearly indicate the simultaneous occurrence of charge‐assisted aromatic and aliphatic C−H noncovalent interactions. PCM/DFT calculations have been carried out to predict the structures of the complexes formed with one and two molecules of PF6−, H2PO4− and HP2O73−
Phase‐Engineered PtSe2‐Layered Films by a Plasma‐Assisted Selenization Process toward All PtSe2‐Based Field Effect Transistor to Highly Sensitive, Flexible, and Wide‐Spectrum Photoresponse Photodetectors
Authors: Su Teng‐Yu , Medina Henry , Chen Yu‐Ze , Wang Sheng‐Wen , Lee Shao‐Shin , Shih Yu‐Chuan , Chen Chia‐Wei , Kuo Hao‐Chung , Chuang Feng‐Chuan , Chueh Yu‐Lun
Published: April 2018

The formation of PtSe2‐layered films is reported in a large area by the direct plasma‐assisted selenization of Pt films at a low temperature, where temperatures, as low as 100 °C at the applied plasma power of 400 W can be achieved. As the thickness of the Pt film exceeds 5 nm, the PtSe2‐layered film (five monolayers) exhibits a metallic behavior. A clear p‐type semiconducting behavior of the PtSe2‐layered film (≈trilayers) is observed with the average field effective mobility of 0.7 cm2 V−1 s−1 from back‐gated transistor measurements as the thickness of the Pt film reaches below 2.5 nm. A full PtSe2 field effect transistor is demonstrated where the thinner PtSe2, exhibiting a semiconducting behavior, is used as the channel material, and the thicker PtSe2, exhibiting a metallic behavior, is used as an electrode, yielding an ohmic contact. Furthermore, photodetectors using a few PtSe2‐layered films as an adsorption layer synthesized at the low temperature on a flexible substrate exhibit a wide range of absorption and photoresponse with the highest photocurrent of 9 µA under the laser wavelength of 408 nm. In addition, the device can maintain a high photoresponse under a large bending stress and 1000 bending cycles.