bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A specific HeLa cell-labelled and lysosome-targeted upconversion fluorescent probe: PEG-modified Sr2YbF7:Tm3+
Authors: Xiang Li-Jun , Zhang Hui-Hui , Li Hong , Kong Lin , Zhou Hong-Ping , Wu Jie-Ying , Tian Yu-Peng , Zhang Jie , Mao Yi-Fu
Published: November 2017

In this study, water-soluble PEG-modified Sr2YbF7:Tm3+ was prepared conveniently by a one-pot solvothermal method. It is anticipated that the as-prepared material could be used as a potential tool for cancer diagnosis.
Self-assembled polyoxometalate–dendrimer structures for selective photocatalysis
Authors: Kutz A. , Mariani G. , Schweins R. , Streb C. , Gröhn F.
Published: November 2017

We present a novel, self-assembled nanostructure with selective photocatalytic activity formed from anionic polyoxometalate clusters and cationic dendrimers by electrostatic self-assembly.
RAFT synthesis and micellization of a photo-, temperature- and pH-responsive diblock copolymer based on spiropyran
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Cao Mengjiao , Yuan Bing , Guo Tianying , Zhang Wangqing
Published: November 2017

A photo-, temperature- and pH-responsive diblock copolymer containing a rigid spiropyran moiety was synthesized and its micellization was investigated.
Water-soluble fullerene-functionalized polymer micelles for efficient aqueous-processed conductive devices
Authors: Cheng Chih-Chia , Lin Wei-Ling , Liao Zhi-Sheng , Chu Chih-Wei , Huang Jyun-Jie , Huang Shan-You , Fan Wen-Lu , Lee Duu-Jong
Published: November 2017

A novel fullerene-based water-soluble conducting micelle has been successfully developed, providing a potential route towards development of aqueous-processed electronic devices.
Synthesis, photophysical properties and cation-binding studies of bipyridine-functionalized gold(i) complexes
Authors: Solovyev Igor V. , Kondinski Aleksandar , Monakhov Kirill Yu. , Koshevoy Igor O. , Grachova Elena V.
Published: November 2017

A new family of Au(i) complexes equipped with bipyridine function demonstrate bright luminescence response to M(ii) cations in solution.
Metal-free bifunctional carbon electrocatalysts derived from zeolitic imidazolate frameworks for efficient water splitting
Authors: Lei Yaojie , Wei Li , Zhai Shengli , Wang Yanqing , Karahan H. Enis , Chen Xuncai , Zhou Zheng , Wang Chaojun , Sui Xiao , Chen Yuan
Published: November 2017

Cathodic polarization treatment modulates the surface functional group composition of ZIF-8 derived metal-free carbon catalysts, resulting in enhanced OER/HER activity.
Single-molecule junctions of π molecules
Authors: Komoto Y. , Fujii S. , Kiguchi M.
Published: November 2017

An investigation on a single-molecule junction reveals the intrinsic properties of a π molecule without the effect of intermolecular interaction and also uncovers its unique properties.
Engineered ridge and micropillar array detectors to quantify the directional migration of fibroblasts
Authors: Rathod Mitesh L. , Pareek Nikhil , Agrawal Suchi , Jaddivada Siddhartha , Lee Dong W. , Gundiah Namrata
Published: November 2017

Fibroblasts align and show persistent migration on ridge-pillar micropatterned substrates. Traction forces vary along the polarized cell length.
A magnetic fluorescence molecularly imprinted polymer sensor with selectivity for dibutyl phthalate via Mn doped ZnS quantum dots
Authors: Xu Wanzhen , Li Tao , Huang Weihong , Luan Yu , Yang Yanfei , Li Songjun , Yang Wenming
Published: November 2017

In this work, magnetic quantum dots molecularly imprinted polymers were synthesized, which were based on ZnS and magnetic Fe3O4.
Structural transformation of Pd-α-Fe2O3 and Pd-γ-Fe2O3 catalysts and application in the CO oxidation reaction
Authors: Xu Hong , Ni Ke , Li Xiaokun , Fang Guangzong , Fan Guohong
Published: November 2017

Pd-α-Fe2O3 and Pd-γ-Fe2O3 catalysts can be obtained by redox pretreatment and exhibit different reactive performances during CO oxidation.
Strain/stress engineering on the mechanical and electronic properties of phosphorene nanosheets and nanotubes
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yin Jiuren , Zhang Ping , Ding Yanhuai
Published: November 2017

Strain/stress modulated mechanical and electronic properties of phosphorene nanosheets and nanotubes.
Preparation of cis-pinane via α-pinene hydrogenation in water by using Ru nanoparticles immobilized in functionalized amphiphilic mesoporous silica
Authors: Xie Lihua , Wang Xiaoyan , Yu Fengli , Yuan Bing , Xie Congxia , Yu Shitao
Published: November 2017

Ru nanoparticles supported on amphiphilic mesoporous silica were applied in α-pinene hydrogenation under mild conditions, showing superior activity and selectivity.
Changing the shape of hair with keratin peptides
Authors: Cruz C. F. , Martins M. , Egipto J. , Osório H. , Ribeiro A. , Cavaco-Paulo A.
Published: November 2017

Here we propose a solution which will replace harsh reducing agents at alkaline pH by peptide formulations acting at neutral pH to change hair shape through the re-conformation of disulphide bonds.
Correction: Physiological response of Microcystis aeruginosa to the extracellular substances from an Aeromonas sp.
Authors: Zhang Xing , Song Tao , Ma Hao , Li Li
Published: November 2017

Correction for ‘Physiological response of Microcystis aeruginosa to the extracellular substances from an Aeromonas sp.’ by Xing Zhang, Tao Song et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 103662–103667.
Dual nickel and Lewis acid catalysis for cross-electrophile coupling: the allylation of aryl halides with allylic alcohols
Authors: Jia Xue-Gong , Guo Peng , Duan Jicheng , Shu Xing-Zhong
Published: November 2017

Dual nickel and Lewis acid catalysis has been developed for the coupling reaction between reactive and unreactive electrophiles.
Site-specific detection of protein secondary structure using 2D IR dihedral indexing: a proposed assembly mechanism of oligomeric hIAPP
Authors: Maj Michał , Lomont Justin P. , Rich Kacie L. , Alperstein Ariel M. , Zanni Martin T.
Published: November 2017

Human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) aggregates into fibrils through oligomers that have been postulated to contain α-helices as well as β-sheets.
Self-assembled selenium nanoparticles and their application in the rapid diagnostic detection of small cell lung cancer biomarkers
Authors: Zhao Yilin , Sun Qiufeng , Zhang Xi , Baeyens Jan , Su Haijia
Published: November 2017

Self-assembled selenium nanoparticles are used for rapid serodiagnosis of human lung cancer.
Graphitic nanostructures in a porous carbon framework significantly enhance electrocatalytic oxygen evolution
Authors: Gadipelli Srinivas , Li Zhuangnan , Zhao Tingting , Yang Yuchen , Yildirim Taner , Guo Zhengxiao
Published: November 2017

Hybrid carbons, nickel embedded nanographites in a nitrogen-doped porous carbon structure, developed by a simplified CVD fashion, utilizing a solid state precursor, zeolitic-imidazolate-framework, lead to highly enhanced water oxidation activity over simple graphitic or porous carbon based structures alone.
Exceptionally high sodium-ion battery cathode capacity based on doped ammonium vanadium oxide and a full cell SIB prototype study
Authors: Sarkar Ananta , Sarkar Sudeep , Mitra Sagar
Published: November 2017

Sodium-ion battery technology, the existing electrodes, and electrolytes are still in the early stage of development, and more intense research is necessary before moving to mass production and application.
Two-dimensional multilayer M2CO2(M = Sc, Zr, Hf) as photocatalysts for hydrogen production from water splitting: a first principles study
Authors: Fu Cen-Feng , Li Xingxing , Luo Qiquan , Yang Jinlong
Published: November 2017

Theoretical study on two-dimensional multilayered MXenes for hydrogen production from water splitting.
Investigation of chloride ion adsorption onto Ti2C MXene monolayers by first-principles calculations
Authors: Wang Dashuai , Gao Yu , Liu Yanhui , Gogotsi Yury , Meng Xing , Chen Gang , Wei Yingjin
Published: November 2017

MXene monolayers exhibit promising electrochemical properties for Cl-ion batteries.
Facile synthesis of hierarchical N-doped hollow porous carbon whiskers with ultrahigh surface area via synergistic inner–outer activation for casein hydrolysate adsorption
Authors: He Xin , Liu Pengru , Liu Jing , Muhammad Yaseen , Zhu Meiping , Sun Jianhua , Cui Xuemin , Liao Dankui , Tong Zhangfa
Published: November 2017

Facile synthesis of hierarchical N-doped hollow porous carbon whiskers with ultrahigh SSA via synergistic inner–outer activation for casein hydrolysate adsorption.
Electric field-modulated data storage in bilayer InSe
Authors: Yang Xuhui , Sa Baisheng , Zhan Hongbing , Sun Zhimei
Published: November 2017

A vertical electric field-modulated data storage device based on bilayer InSe.
Palladium-Catalyzed Synthesis of Aryl Nitriles: Using α-Imino­nitrile as Cyano Source for Aryl Halide Cyanations
Authors: Zhu Yong-Ming , Shi Yu-Long , Yuan Qing , Chen Zhen-Bang , Zhang Fang-Ling , Liu Kui
Published: November 2017

An efficient and ligand-free palladium-catalyzed exchange reaction to synthesize aryl nitriles by using α-iminonitrile as a starting reagent has been developed. This methodology provides an optional method for the synthesis of aryl nitriles with moderate to good yields. At the same time, this approach is adaptable for many substrates.
Ectopic Solitary Cortical Anaplastic Ependymoma in a Child: A Rare Entity with Short Illustrative Review
Authors: Guthe Sachin , Survashe Pravin , Velho Vernon , Bhopale Laxmikant , Darade Poonam
Published: November 2017

Ependymomas are usually infratentorial and intraventricular. They originate from the ependymal cell lining of the ventricles. Cortical extraventricular supratentorial ependymomas are rare and fewer than 15 cases are reported worldwide. In pediatric age group, seven cases are reported. We report a rare case of 4-year-old boy with right frontoparietal anaplastic ependymoma who underwent gross total excision of lesion.
In Vitro Comparison of Two Barbed Suture Configurations for Flexor Tendon Repair
Authors: Engel Jamie , Gabra Joseph , Esterle Andrew , Lanzinger William , Elias John
Published: November 2017

Purpose The current study compares the strength of a previously studied technique for flexor tendon repair with barbed sutures to an experimental approach that aligns all the barbs to oppose distraction.

Methods Twelve flexor tendons from cadaveric specimens were mechanically tested following repair of simulated zone II tendon injuries. Two repair techniques utilizing barbed sutures were studied: the Marrero-Amadeo four-core barbed suture approach and the experimental configuration with all barbs on four cores opposing distraction. Maximum applied load at failure, that is, ultimate load, and 2-mm gap force were compared between the two repair techniques, both as raw values and after normalization to cross-sectional area of the intact tendon. Statistical testing was performed using t-tests and Mann-Whitney U-tests, where appropriate, with a significance level of 0.05.

Results The ultimate loads, raw (58.2 N) and normalized (4.8 N/mm2), were significantly larger for the Marrero-Amadeo repair than the proposed experimental approach (35.6 N and 2.7 N/mm2; p < 0.05). No significant differences were identified for 2-mm gap force.

Conclusion The innovation of suturing to align all barbs to oppose distraction does not improve strength of the repaired tendon. The Marrero-Amadeo technique was found to have superior strength for use in traumatic zone II flexor tendon injuries.
Interventionen zur Reduzierung sitzenden Verhaltens am Büroarbeitsplatz – eine systematische Literaturanalyse
Authors: Becker Ina , Wallmann-Sperlich Birgit , Rupp Robert , Bucksch Jens
Published: November 2017

Hintergrund Sitzendes Verhalten wird zunehmend als ein eigenständiger gesundheitlicher Risikofaktor eingeschätzt. Ein wesentliches Handlungsfeld für Interventionen zur Reduzierung sitzenden Verhaltens stellt deshalb der Büroarbeitsplatz dar. Dieses systematische Review untersucht, ob sitz- und/oder bewegungsspezifische Interventionen die Sitzzeiten von Büroangestellten am Arbeitsplatz reduzieren.

Methoden Von April bis Mai 2016 wurde in den Datenbanken „PubMed“, „PsycINFO“ und „SPORTDiscus“ eine systematische Literaturrecherche durchgeführt. Insgesamt ließen sich 17 Studien identifizieren, welche die Sitzzeiten von Büroangestellten untersuchten. Die relevanten Studien wurden in einer „Best Evidence Synthesis“ zusammengefasst. Zusätzlich wurde eine Moderatoranalyse (u. a. Interventionsmethoden) durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse Multikomponenten-Interventionen und Sitz-Steh-Arbeitsstationen sind vielversprechend zur Reduzierung der Sitzzeiten von Büroangestellten. In der Moderatoranalyse fiel der Anteil signifikant positiver Interventionsergebnisse für die Interventionsmethoden „Umweltveränderungen“, „Hinzufügen von Objekten zur Umgebung“ und „Anleitungen, um ein Verhalten auszuführen“ am höchsten aus. Interventionen mit spezifischem Fokus auf das Sitzen sowie Studien mit objektiver Messmethodik zur Erhebung der Sitzzeit zeigten sich erfolgversprechender.

Schlussfolgerung Es existieren verschiedene erfolgversprechende Interventionen zur Reduzierung der Sitzzeiten am Büroarbeitsplatz. Hier sind Mehrkomponenten-Interventionen und die Installation von Sitz-Steh-Arbeitsstationen hervorzuheben. Wenig Evidenz liegt für die Langzeitwirkung vor. Die Heterogenität der Studien schränkt zudem allgemeingültige Wirksamkeitsaussagen ein. Zukünftige Studien sollten Interventionen stärker theoriebasiert planen und die Sitzzeiten mithilfe subjektiver und objektiver Messinstrumente erfassen.
Big Data und Public Health
Authors: Moebus Susanne , Kuhn Joseph , Hoffmann Wolfgang
Published: November 2017

Big Data ist ein diffuser Begriff, der als ein Ansatz zur Verknüpfung riesiger und häufig unstrukturierter Datensätze umschrieben werden könnte. Big Data wird in vielen Gesellschaftsbereichen genutzt. Für Public Health (PH) ist Big Data dagegen ein kaum entwickeltes Thema. In diesem Beitrag wird Big Data über die Anwendungsmotive Informationseffizienz, Vorhersage und Clustering erläutert. Am Beispiel der Anwendung in Wissenschaft, Patientenversorgung, Chancengleichheit und Smart Cities werden typische Herausforderungen und offene Fragen von Big Data für PH umrissen. Neben der unumgänglichen Beschäftigung mit Big Data, ist eine Vernetzung insbesondere mit Wissens- und Entscheidungsträgern aus Politik und Praxis notwendig.
Die Inanspruchnahme der ambulanten Notfallversorgung in Westfalen-Lippe: eine medizingeographische Studie
Authors: Völker Sebastian
Published: November 2017

Die Identifikation geographischer Variationen in der Inanspruchnahme ambulanter Notfallversorgungseinrichtungen ist das effektivste Instrument, um Regionen mit dem größten Potenzial zur Steigerung von Qualität und Effizienz in der Notfallversorgung zu lokalisieren. Ziel der Studie ist in einem Regressionsmodell die Inanspruchnahme unter Berücksichtigung gemeindeübergreifender, lokaler Abhängigkeiten und von Agglomerationseffekten zu schätzen. Die Datengrundlage dieser ökologischen Studie bildeten alle gesetzlich krankenversicherten, ambulanten Notfallpatientenkontakte aus dem Jahr 2013 (n=1 927 471), die nach dem Wohnortprinzip auf die 231 Gemeinden des Versorgungsgebietes der Kassenärztlichen Vereinigung Westfalen-Lippe aggregiert wurden. Mithilfe geostatistischer Verfahren wurde der Anteil der ambulanten Notfallpatientenkontakte in Krankenhausambulanzen durch sozio-ökonomische, patientenfokussierte und geographische Variablen modelliert. Die Inanspruchnahme von Krankenhausambulanzen (Ø=56,2 %) in Westfalen-Lippe stellt sich räumlich heterogen dar (min=14,8 %; max=83,9 %). Als wichtige Einflussfaktoren wurden die Patientensouveränität, der Gesundheitszustand des Patienten, die räumliche Distanz zum Versorgungsangebot und die Region Ruhrgebiet identifiziert. Die grenzüberschreitende Betrachtung spielt in der vorliegenden Studie eine gewichtige Rolle für die Inanspruchnahme von Notfallversorgungseinrichtungen und hilft potenzielle Interventionsräume zu identifizieren.
Prevalence and Correlates of Emergency Contraceptive Use in Transitional Albania
Authors: Roshi Dajana , Italia Salvatore , Burazeri Genc , Brand Helmut
Published: November 2017

Objectives The two emergency contraceptive drugs (“morning-after pill”) ulipristal acetate and levonorgestrel are available without prescription in many European countries. In Albania, ulipristal acetate is not marketed yet and levonorgestrel has still prescription-only status. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and socioeconomic correlates of emergency contraceptive (EMC) use, collect sales figures, and gain information on the women’s way of purchasing EMCs in post-communist Albania.

Methods For this cross-sectional study, self-administered questionnaires were made accessible to women in Albania in March 2015 by hard copy or online via social networks. Women were asked about lifetime use and last year’s use of EMCs, and if they purchased EMCs with or without a prescription. Additionally, pharmacies were contacted and asked about EMC sales figures.

Results Of the 205 participating women, 80.5% knew about the availability and use of EMCs, and 15.1% reported EMC use during the previous 12 months. The lifetime prevalence of use was 46.8%. Although having prescription-only status in Albania, 96% of the women bought EMCs without a physician’s prescription. Knowledge was significantly lower among the lower educated women and among women residing in small cities. Use of EMCs was significantly higher in women with a weaker financial background and, compared with small cities, in those from large or mid-sized cities. The 54 participating pharmacies (3% of all Albanian pharmacies) reported selling 11 EMCs on average per month. The use of EMCs may be estimated at 0.22 defined daily doses per 1,000 inhabitants per day. Compared to January 2015, EMC sales increased by 17% in February 2016.

Conclusions Compared to other European countries, the prevalence of EMC use seems to be higher in Albania. Use and knowledge of EMCs depend on socioeconomic characteristics. It is recommended to switch EMCs to non-prescription status in transitional Albania.
Memantine Augmentation Improves Symptoms in Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor-Refractory Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Modarresi Atieh , Sayyah Mehdi , Razooghi Setareh , Eslami Kaveh , Javadi Mohammadreza , Kouti Leila
Published: November 2017

Introduction There is a large body of evidence on the clinical benefits of augmentation therapy with glutamate-modulating agents, such as memantine in reducing OCD symptoms.

Methods A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on SRIrefractory OCD patients. Thirty-two patients were randomized to receive either 20 mg/day memantine or placebo augmentation and were visited at baseline and every 4 weeks for 12 weeks. Results were measured using the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS).

Results The Y-BOCS total score was significantly reduced in the memantine group at the end of weeks 8 and 12, while no improvement was observed in the placebo group throughout the trial. A reduction of 40.9% in the mean Y-BOCS total score by week 12 in the memantine group resulted in 73.3% of patients achieving treatment response. The findings showed that a time to effect of 8 weeks was necessary to observe significant improvement in OCD symptoms, while treatment response was only seen after 12 weeks of memantine augmentation.

Discussion Memantine is an effective and well-tolerated augmentation in severe OCD patients refractory to SRI monotherapy.
Psychoneurosis beyond Oedipus: neurophysiology, drive conflict, and the resolution of emotional trauma
Authors: Logan Cheryl A.
Published: November 2017

The concept of plasticity infused regenerative approaches to brain science in Switzerland in the mid-twentieth century, shaping a holistic tradition prominent among Zurich’s psychiatrists and neurologists. From 1910 to about 1950, they sought to objectify the dynamic unconscious using a psychobiological approach to mental pathology pioneered by the neuroanatomists August Forel and Constantin von Monakow. Little scholarship, however, has explored this tradition. Both Forel and Monakow influenced Rudolf Brun, a Zurich neurologist and ant expert, who championed parallels between biological conflicts measured in social insects and Sigmund Freud’s drive energetics. Brun’s concept of drive conflict integrated Richard Semon’s theory of plastic heredity as “species memory” with a revision of Monakow to explain mental pathology in the brain. Through them, he proposed the neuropathology underlying Freud’s “genuine” psychoneuroses: those caused by unconscious memories of traumatic experience. This paper uses primary historical sources from the Swiss scientific literature to demonstrate that (1) Brun combined Semon’s plastic heredity, Cannon’s physiology and Pavlov’s conditional reflex to objectify Freud’s dynamic unconscious; and (2) though he rejected Monakow’s teleology, Brun’s holistic mind-body approach owed much to Monakow’s theory of emotions and pathology manifest in the brain. Brun elaborated Monakow’s view that psychopathology occurs as unconscious drive conflicts produce neurotoxicity, enabling excess hormones to disrupt the brain’s protective filtering system. Brun’s ant experiments confirmed evolutionary “laws” governing drive conflict and framed the neuro-energetics underlying the resolution of repressed emotional trauma. Tests pitted conflicts between social drives and those serving self-interest. Through them, Brun extended moral conflict beyond the Oedipal domain of psychoanalysis to encompass conflicts in a biological hierarchy of drives. This drive-based account of conscience explored neural pathways reaching back from the cortex to the body, so enabling traumatic memories to generate psychoneuroses. Plasticity could then justify the use of psychotherapy to reverse these pathogenic connections. Brun’s example demonstrates both the significance of Semon’s theory of heredity for objective accounts of the unconscious mind in Central Europe and the hidden legacy of Monakow’s neuroendocrine holism. Brun combined that legacy with objective evidence and Zurich’s emphasis on plasticity to endorse—somewhat paradoxically—the reversal of psychoneuroses in the brain.
A learning-based optimization of active power dispatch for a grid-connected microgrid with uncertain multi-type loads
Authors: Lv Kai , Tang Hao , Li Yijin , Li Xin
Published: November 2017

An active power dispatch method for a microgrid (MG) with multi-type loads, renewable energy sources, and distributed energy storage devices (DESDs) is the focus of this paper. The MG operates in a grid-connected model, and distributed power sources contribute to the service for load demands. The outputs of multiple DESDs are controlled to optimize the active power dispatch. Our goal with optimization is to reduce the economic cost under the time-of-use price and to adjust the excessively high or low loading rate of distributed transformers caused by the peak-valley demand and load uncertainties. To simulate a practical environment, stochastic characteristics of multi-type loads are formulated. Then, a finite-horizon Markov decision process model is established to describe the dispatch optimization problem. A learning-based technique is adopted to search the optimal joint control policy of multiple DESDs. Finally, simulation experiments are performed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Experimental study on burning behaviors of photovoltaic panels with different coverings using a cone calorimeter
Authors: Ju Xiaoyu , Zhou Xiaodong , Zhao Kun , Hu Yue , Mu Tao , Ni Yong , Yang Lizhong
Published: November 2017

Severe building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) fires enhance the need of precise risk assessment on photovoltaic (PV) modules. In the current study, two widely used photovoltaic (PV) panels with different coverings are tested using a cone calorimeter under a wide range of incident heat fluxes (from 18 to 70 kW/m2) to characterize the influence of window flame radiation on the burning behaviors of the samples. Several key parameters including the ignition temperature and time, heat release rate (HRR), and concentration of toxic gases are investigated. The experimental results show that glass covering instead of polyethylene terephthalate covering could effectively improve the flame-retardant and smoke-suppression properties of PV composites. In addition, exposing the two samples to high incident heat fluxes would be very dangerous for the peak HRR and fire growth rate index, and fractional effective exposure dose values rise as the incident heat flux increases from 18 to 70 kW/m2, while the ignition time and time to peak HRR reduce. Further, three different decomposition regions of the two composites, which are identified within the range of the applied external heat flux, represent the different roles of flame retardants and covering glass, respectively. This work provides a method for fire safety specialists to evaluate the fire hazards of PV modules, which include thermal and toxic hazards, in BIPV safety assessments.
Cuckoo search–based maximum power point tracking controller for PV water pumping system
Authors: Enany Mohamed A.
Published: November 2017

In this paper, a novel-based tracking controller is developed to ensure maximum power point operation for photovoltaic (PV) water pumping systems (PVWPS). PVWPS consists of a PV array followed by a controlled DC cuk converter which feeds a permanent magnet DC motor coupled with a centrifugal pump. The proposed controller is adaptive-logic based that search, detect and track by using Cuckoo Search (CS) technique. This controller may be specified by three control algorithms, each one has its own constraints for Maximum Power Point tracking achievement. The first two CS control algorithms are based on the sensed old chopping ratio, insolation and temperature as inputs in addition to the PV and motor–pump performance parameters. These controllers are implemented to predict the operating and maximum point voltage and power. The third CS control algorithm is constrained by the outputs of the first two CS control algorithms and motor–pump performance parameters. The third CS controllers are implemented also to predict the optimum DC–DC converter duty ratio based on solar insolation, ambient temperature and motor–pump constants. Each algorithm is provided by its own proposed control function. The new approach has proven accuracy, robustness and effectiveness of efficient energy utilization for stand-alone PVWPS one as it is the most accurate, fastest and easiest.
Diminished Ost3-dependent N-glycosylation of the BiP nucleotide exchange factor Sil1 is an adaptive response to reductive ER stress
Authors: Stevens Kofi L. P. , Black Amy L. , Wells Kelsi M. , Yeo K. Y. Benjamin , Steuart Robert F. L. , Stirling Colin J. , Schulz Benjamin L. , Mousley Carl J.
Published: November 2017

Significance

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) function relies on the maintenance of an appropriate redox balance. We observe that ER reductive stress is sensed through the oligosaccharyltransferase subunit Ost3 and acts to inhibit glycosylation of Sil1. Misfolded proteins accumulate within the ER under reductive stress and may sequester Lhs1 and limit the pool of free Lhs1 that can function as a BiP nucleotide exchange factor. Furthermore, unglycosylated Sil1 can compensate for the loss of Lhs1 activity more readily than glycosylated Sil1. Accumulation of unglycosylated Sil1 upon reductive stress may therefore be an adaptive mechanism that allows Sil1 to compensate for loss of Lhs1 NEF activity under these conditions.
Blocking immunosuppression by human Tregs in vivo with antibodies targeting integrin αVβ8
Authors: Stockis Julie , Liénart Stéphanie , Colau Didier , Collignon Amandine , Nishimura Stephen L. , Sheppard Dean , Coulie Pierre G. , Lucas Sophie
Published: November 2017

Significance

Immunosuppression by regulatory T cells (Tregs) is essential for the maintenance of self-tolerance, but it is detrimental in cancer because Tregs inhibit antitumor immunity. Development of therapeutic tools to block Tregs in patients with cancer requires a precise understanding of how human Tregs suppress immune responses. We recently identified an important mechanism implicating release of the active form of TGF-β1, a potently immunosuppressive cytokine, from GARP/latent TGF-β1 complexes on the surface of human Tregs. Here we unravel the molecular process leading to this release. We identify integrin αVβ8 as indispensable for TGF-β1 activation from GARP/latent TGF-β1 complexes. We show that anti-β8 monoclonals block immunosuppression by human Tregs in vivo and could thus serve in cancer immunotherapy.
The essive in Finnish
Authors: Hynönen Emmi
Published: November 2017

This chapter presents an empirical study of the distribution of a marker referred to as the ‘essive’ in Finnish. The description of the properties of this marker follows the linguistic questionnaire that captures the contexts in which essive and/or translative markers may occur in the Uralic languages. The study specifically investigates the opposition between permanent and impermanent state in non-verbal predications. The linguistic domains involved are non-verbal main predication, secondary predication, complementation, and manner, temporal, and circumstantial adverbial phrases. The use of the marker in the essive sense (associated with state) is contrasted with its use in expressing the translative sense (associated with change). Finally, the syntactic position of elements marked by this form is discussed in relation to the position of focus constituents.
The essive in Votic
Authors: Markus Elena , Rozhanskiy Fedor
Published: November 2017

This chapter presents an empirical study of the distribution of a marker referred to as the ‘essive’ in Votic. The description of the properties of this marker follows the linguistic questionnaire that captures the contexts in which essive and/or translative markers may occur in the Uralic languages. The study brings forward the innovations in the use of the Votic essive marker untypical in the Finnic context, including the loss of the impermanent component in the essive meaning, and the distortion of the state vs. change contrast originally encoded in the essive vs. translative opposition. The linguistic domains considered are non-verbal main predication, secondary predication, complementation, manner, and temporal adverbial phrases.
The essive in Karelian
Authors: Koivisto Vesa
Published: November 2017

This chapter presents an empirical study of the distribution of a marker referred to as the ‘essive’ in Karelian. The description of the properties of this marker follows the linguistic questionnaire that captures the contexts in which essive and/or translative markers may occur in the Uralic languages. The study specifically investigates the opposition between permanent and impermanent state in non-verbal predications. The linguistic domains involved are non-verbal main predication, secondary predication, complementation, and manner, temporal, and circumstantial adverbial phrases. The use of the marker in the essive sense (associated with state) is contrasted with its use in expressing the translative sense (associated with change).
The essive in North Saami
Authors: Ylikoski Jussi
Published: November 2017

This chapter presents an empirical study of the distribution of a morphological case labelled as the ‘essive’ in North Saami. The description of the properties of this case follows the linguistic questionnaire that captures the contexts in which essive and/or translative markers may occur in the Uralic languages. The study specifically investigates the opposition between permanent and impermanent state in non-verbal predications. The linguistic domains involved are non-verbal main predication, secondary predication, complementation, and manner, temporal, and circumstantial adverbial phrases. The use of the marker in the essive sense (associated with state) is contrasted with its use in expressing the translative sense (associated with change). Finally, the syntactic position of elements marked by this form is discussed in relation to the position of focus constituents.
The essive in Skolt Saami
Authors: Feist Timothy
Published: November 2017

This chapter presents an empirical study of the distribution of a marker referred to as the ‘essive’ in Skolt Saami. The description of the properties of this marker follows the linguistic questionnaire that captures the contexts in which essive and/or translative markers may occur in the Uralic languages. The study specifically investigates the opposition between permanent and impermanent state in non-verbal predications. The linguistic domains involved are non-verbal main predication, secondary predication, complementation, and manner, temporal, and circumstantial adverbial phrases. The use of the marker in the essive sense (associated with state) is also contrasted with its use in expressing the translative sense (associated with change).
The Komi answer to the essive question
Authors: Leinonen Marja , Nekrasova Galina
Published: November 2017

This chapter describes forms and constructions in Komi, a language without an essive or translative case marker, where other Uralic languages may use the essive or translative. The description of the properties of these forms and construc-tions follows the linguistic questionnaire that captures the contexts in which essive and translative markers may occur in the Uralic languages. The study spe-cifically investigates the opposition between permanent and impermanent state in non-verbal predications. The linguistic domains involved are non-verbal main predication, secondary predication, complementation, and manner, temporal, and circumstantial adverbial phrases. Finally, the syntactic position of elements marked by this form is discussed in relation to the position of focus constituents.
The essive-translative in Selkup and Kamas
Authors: Wagner-Nagy Beáta
Published: November 2017

This chapter presents an empirical study of the distribution of a marker referred to as the ‘essive-translative’ in Selkup. The description of the properties of this marker follows the linguistic questionnaire that captures the contexts in which essive and/or translative markers may occur in the Uralic languages. The study specifically investigates the opposition between permanent and impermanent state in non-verbal predications. The linguistic domains involved are non-verbal main predication, secondary predication, complementation, and manner, temporal, and circumstantial adverbial phrases. Kamas does not have such marker.
Living history? Reenacting the past and promoting “tradition” in the Dalmatian hinterland
Authors: Schauble Michaela
Published: November 2017

In August 2015 the municipality of Sinj, located in the Dalmatian hinterland, celebrated the 300-year anniversary of a historic victory against the troops of the Ottoman Empire, one that is legendarily attributed to the divine intervention of the Virgin Mary. The Sinj Tourist Board launched an unprecedented campaign in organizing and advertising the various events - ranging from historical re-enactments, film and music productions, folkloristic performances, sports events, exhibitions, and fashion shows, to religious processions and conferences. Using a variety of media formats, these efforts were aimed at creating a new national epic, expanding the meaning of the miraculous battle of 1715 from a local narrative to a nation-wide symbol, representing Croatia in a European and global context. This article focuses on various theatrical re-enactments of the historic battle and the alleged Marian apparition, assessing the role of nostalgia and authenticity in contemporary living history performances. While one of the underlying motifs in the case of Sinj is to enhance the region’s attraction as a tourist destination, the article also theorizes the re-enactment’s epistemological and political claims by proposing that these interactive engagements with history take an active stance in promoting and/or re-inventing heroic olden times to advance socio-political conditions in the present(Gegenwartsbewaltigung).
Effect of TiN-deposition on adhesion characteristics of aluminium
Authors: Sudheendra K. , Kumar Sastha , Krishnan Yadu , Kumar Pradeep , Ahmed Sabbir , Bhowmik Shantanu
Published: November 2017

This investigation highlights on surface modifications and adhesive bonding of aluminium. The surface of the aluminium substrate is modified by magnetron sputtering and nanoparticle reinforcements are employed into the adhesive and their effects on adhesive strength are examined. Owing to the concern of durability of the aluminium surface, adhesive joints are still questionable for their widespread use in structural applications. Various environmental conditions affect properties of adhesives and their performance may degrade over time when adhesive joints are exposed to varying moisture and temperature conditions. Modified aluminium surfaces are examined by morphological techniques to understand the result of deposition on the morphology of substrate. Surface modified samples are subjected to harsh environments and analysed by energy dispersive spectra and surface durability is quantified by corrosion penetration rate. The effect of nano-reinforcements in adhesives on bond durability is examined when the bonded joints are subjected to the harsh environment.
Maskless copper electroplating on stainless steel using DPSS green laser
Authors: Gupta Ram Kishor , Singh Amarjeet , Singh Amrendra , Ram Sankar P. , Sharma S. K. , Mukhopadhyay P. K. , Ganesh P. , Kaul R. , Bindra K. S. , Singh B.
Published: November 2017

In this paper selective deposition of copper on the steel substrate is described by the laser enhanced electroplating method from liquid phase i.e. aqueous copper sulphate solution. The present study involves (i) identification of suitable laser wavelength (i.e. frequency doubled Nd: YAG laser at 532 nm) with low absorption in the electrolyte, (ii) determination of threshold voltage for selective deposition with laser, (iii) experiments on laser-assisted selective copper electroplating and (iv) characterisation based on dimensions, surface topography, residual stresses and phases present. Thus formed deposits can be controlled by incident laser power density and build up growth increases with plating time.
Diagnostic Evaluation of Co-Occurrence of Acanthamoeba and Fungi in Keratitis: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Raghavan Anita , Baidwal Shaffie , Vijayaraghavan Prabhu , Rajeswari Sakthi , Rajaraman Revathi , Venkatapathy Narendran , Menon Sunitha , Rammohan Ram
Published: November 2017

Purpose:

To test the hypothesis that the coexistence ofAcanthamoebawith other forms of microbial keratitis, especially fungal keratitis (FK), is more prevalent than suspected.

Methods:

A prospective diagnostic study whereby patients presenting with stromal keratitis were additionally tested forAcanthamoeba, irrespective of the initial diagnosis. In addition to the routine workup with Gram stain, KOH mount, and cultures on blood agar and potato dextrose agar, nonnutrient agar was included. Confocal microscopy was performed where feasible. Samples for polymerase chain reaction studies were also obtained. We present the preliminary report of the first 100 culture-positive cases. The primary outcome measured was the number of coexistentAcanthamoebaand FK. The secondary outcomes were the total number ofAcanthamoebacases detected and the correlation between clinical diagnosis and microbiological observations.

Results:

Of the first 100 cases, 22 were culture positive forAcanthamoeba, of which 9 were associated with concurrent FK, 5 with bacterial keratitis, and 8 in isolation. However, only 2 cases were diagnosed clinically asAcanthamoeba, whereas 5 wereAcanthamoebasuspects. An additional 4 cases of fungal/Acanthamoebacoexistence in keratitis were revealed purely by confocal microscopy.

Conclusions:

Acanthamoebacan coexist with other forms of microbial keratitis. The frequency of infection coexistent or otherwise is higher than reported, and the possibility of coinfection must be considered especially in unresponsive cases. Including nonnutrient agar and confocal microscopy in all cases of keratitis would perhaps translate into better treatment strategies and outcomes.
Genetic studies of human neuropathic pain conditions: a review
Authors: Zorina-Lichtenwalter Katerina , Parisien Marc , Diatchenko Luda
Published: November 2017

Numerous studies have shown associations between genetic variants and neuropathic pain disorders. Rare monogenic disorders are caused by mutations of substantial effect size in a single gene, whereas common disorders are likely to have a contribution from multiple genetic variants of mild effect size, representing different biological pathways. In this review, we survey the reported genetic contributors to neuropathic pain and submit them for validation in a 150,000-participant sample of the U.K. Biobank cohort. Successfully replicated association with a neuropathic pain construct for 2 variants in IL10 underscores the importance of neuroimmune interactions, whereas genome-wide significant association with low back pain (P = 1.3e-8) and false discovery rate 5% significant associations with hip, knee, and neck pain for variant rs7734804 upstream of the MAT2B gene provide evidence of shared contributing mechanisms to overlapping pain conditions at the molecular genetic level.
Left Lateral Thoracotomy for Centrifugal Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Placement: An Analysis from the Mechanical Circulatory Support Research Network
Authors: Maltais Simon , Anwer Lucman A. , Tchantchaleishvili Vakhtang , Haglund Nicholas A. , Dunlay Shannon M. , Aaronson Keith D. , Pagani Francis D. , Cowger Jennifer , Salerno Christopher T. , Shah Palak , Khalpey Zain , Schmitto Jan , Stulak John M.
Published: November 2017

Continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (CF-LVADs) have revolutionized the management of patients with advanced heart failure. Alternative implant strategies are increasingly used for device placement. We reviewed our experience from the Mechanical Circulatory Support Research Network registry with the HeartWare centrifugal CF-LVAD (HVAD). From May 2004 to August 2015, 1,150 patients underwent primary CF-LVAD implantation at our institutions. Within this group, a total of 283 patients (25%) were implanted with the HVAD. A minimally invasive left lateral thoracotomy (MILT) implant strategy was used in 53 patients (20%), of which 22 (42%) were implanted off-pump. Median age at implant was 59 years and 183 patients (65%) were implanted as bridge-to-transplantation. Follow-up was 100% complete for a total of 302 patient-years of support. In-hospital mortality was 4.9% (14 patients), and was comparable between the conventional sternotomy (CS) and MILT cohorts (p = 0.15). Patients in the MILT cohort had a shorter median length of stay (p < 0.01) and had a lower incidence of postimplant pump thrombus (p = 0.02). Cumulative survival at the end of follow-up reached 84%, and was comparable between the two groups (p = 0.298). Multivariate analysis identified preoperative bilirubin level as the only independent predictor of survival. Surgical technique had no impact on survival. In this large, multicenter experience, data demonstrate excellent survival and adverse event profiles for patients supported with the HVAD technology, regardless of surgical implant technique. With constant advancements in device technology along with our increasing clinical experience with the newer techniques, minimally invasive LVAD implantation continues to evolve as a valuable alternative to CS in selected patients.
Implementing the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence Head Injury 2014 Guidelines in a major children’s hospital emergency department
Authors: Ramjeeawon Natalie , Lecky Fiona , Burke Derek P. , Ramlakhan Shammi
Published: November 2017

Objectives and background

Head injury is a common paediatric emergency department presentation. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence updated its guidance in January 2014 regarding imaging required for adults and children following a head injury (CG176). This study looked at the rates of computed tomography (CT) head scans performed and adherence rates to CG176.

Patients and methods

A single-centre audit was carried out, examining imaging practice in children with head injuries. CG176 was implemented formally in August 2014 to the new trainee doctors. The primary outcome was adherence to CG176. As the data were binary, 95% confidence intervals were used for comparison.

Results

In all, 1797 patients were identified as having a head injury. Implementation at the Sheffield’s Children NHS Foundation Trust resulted in a statistically significant increase in guideline adherence from 79.2% [95% confidence interval (CI): 76.4–81.9%] to 85.1% (95% CI: 82.9–87.4%). The greatest impact in adherence was found in CT head scans, from 95.8% (95% CI: 94.5–97.2%) to 97.7% (95% CI: 96.7–98.6%).

Conclusion

The implementation at the Sheffield’s Children NHS Foundation Trust was successful in satisfying the aim of CG176 by increasing adherence and decreasing CT head scans. This success could be explained by the formal implementation to the new cohort of doctors and better physician agreement with the guidelines. The increase in adherence is contrary to the previous studies.
Fecal Amino Acid Analysis Can Discriminate De Novo Treatment‐Naïve Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease From Controls
Authors: Bosch Sofie , Struys Eduard A. , van Gaal Nora , Bakkali Abdellatif , Jansen Erwin W. , Diederen Kay , Benninga Marc A. , Mulder Chris J. , de Boer Nanne K.H. , de Meij Tim G.J.
Published: November 2017

Objectives:

Endoscopy remains mandatory in the diagnostic work‐up of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but is a costly and invasive procedure. Identification of novel, noninvasive, diagnostic biomarkers remains a priority. The aim of the present study was to explore the potential of fecal amino acid composition as diagnostic biomarker for pediatric IBD.

Methods:

In this case‐control study, treatment‐naïve, de novo pediatric patients with IBD from two tertiary centers were included. Endoscopic severity of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) was based on physician global assessment scores, substantiated by levels of fecal calprotectin and C‐reactive protein at study inclusion. Patients were instructed to collect a fecal sample prior to bowel cleansing. Healthy controls (HCs) were recruited from primary schools in the same region. Dedicated amino acid analysis was performed on all samples.

Results:

Significant differences between 30 IBD patients (15 UC, 15 CD) and 15 age and sex‐matched HCs were found in six amino acids (histidine, tryptophan, phenylalanine, leucine, tyrosine, and valine; all area under the curve >0.75 and P < 0.005), displaying higher levels in IBD. When distributing the patients according to type of IBD, a similar spectrum of amino acids differed between UC and HC (histidine, tryptophan, phenylalanine, leucine, valine, and serine), whereas three amino acids were different between CD and HC (histidine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine).

Conclusions:

Significantly increased levels of six different fecal amino acids were found in patients with IBD compared to controls. Whether these differences reflect decreased absorption or increased loss by inflamed intestines needs to be elucidated.