bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidation of pyrrole by dehaloperoxidase-hemoglobin: chemoenzymatic synthesis of pyrrolin-2-ones
Authors: McCombs Nikolette L. , Smirnova Tatyana , Ghiladi Reza A.
Published: June 2017

A biocatalytic approach using the enzyme dehaloperoxidase catalyzes the H2O2-dependent oxidation of pyrrole to 4-pyrrolin-2-one and notably without polypyrrole formation.
Study of the scale-up, formulation, ageing and ammonia adsorption capacity of MIL-100(Fe), Cu-BTC and CPO-27(Ni) for use in respiratory protection filters
Authors: Hindocha S. , Poulston S.
Published: June 2017

The metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) MIL-100(Fe), Cu-BTC and CPO-27(Ni) were synthesised in 1 kg batches. The materials were then formed in two different industrially relevant ways. Firstly, dry granulation was used to produce pellets which were sieved to give material with a 300–1000 μm size, and the fines were subsequently recycled to mimic a large scale industrial process. Secondly, wet granulation with a polymer was used to produce granules which were again sieved to 300–1000 μm. XRD data shows that the structures of MIL-100(Fe) and CPO-27(Ni) remain intact during both forming processes, whilst Cu-BTC is shown to degrade during processing. This is in line with the ammonia adsorption data obtained for the formed materials which evaluated the ammonia adsorption capacity of the materials using breakthrough measurements. MIL-100(Fe) and CPO-27(Ni) are shown to have capacities of 47 mg g−1 and 62 mg g−1 respectively whilst Cu-BTC has a decreased capacity of 37 mg g−1 from 97 mg g−1 upon forming. The formed materials were also aged at 25 °C and 80% humidity for a week and the ammonia adsorption capacity re-evaluated. As expected, Cu-BTC decomposed under these conditions, whilst MIL-100(Fe) and CPO-27(Ni) show slightly decreased ammonia adsorption capacities of 36 mg g−1 and 60 mg g−1 respectively.
Iridium-catalyzed highly efficient chemoselective reduction of aldehydes in water using formic acid as the hydrogen source
Authors: Yang Zhanhui , Zhu Zhongpeng , Luo Renshi , Qiu Xiang , Liu Ji-tian , Yang Jing-Kui , Tang Weiping
Published: June 2017

A highly efficient iridium catalyst is developed for the chemoselective reduction of aldehydes to alcohols in water, using formic acid as a reductant.
Tropylium salts as efficient organic Lewis acid catalysts for acetalization and transacetalization reactions in batch and flow
Authors: Lyons D. J. M. , Crocker R. D. , Enders D. , Nguyen T. V.
Published: June 2017

Tropylium salts were reported as organic-Lewis acids to efficiently catalyze acetalization reactions in batch and flow.
Multicomponent diffusion coefficients from microfluidics using Raman microspectroscopy
Authors: Peters Christine , Wolff Ludger , Haase Sandra , Thien Julia , Brands Thorsten , Koß Hans-Jürgen , Bardow André
Published: June 2017

Microfluidic measurement of multicomponent diffusion coefficients using minimal number of experiments with high accuracy in short time.
Deep eutectic liquid organic salt as a new solvent for carrier-mediated hollow fiber liquid phase microextraction of lead from whole blood followed by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Alavi Leila , Seidi Shahram , Jabbari Ali , Baheri Tahmineh
Published: June 2017

In the present work, for the first time, a new carrier-mediated hollow fiber liquid phase microextraction (CM-HFLPME) technique was applied for the determination of lead in whole blood samples by means of ETAAS.
Self-organization behaviours of hemiphasmidic side-chain liquid-crystalline polymers with different spacer lengths
Authors: Yang Xiwen , Xiang Zheng , Chen Sheng , Luo Hang , Zhang Dou , Zhang Hailiang
Published: June 2017

The influence of flexible spacers on unusual self-organization behaviours of side-chain liquid-crystalline polymers containing biphenyl hemiphasmidic mesogens.
An In2O3 nanorod-decorated reduced graphene oxide composite as a high-response NOx gas sensor at room temperature
Authors: Fang Wencheng , Yang Ying , Yu Hui , Dong Xiangting , Wang Ruihong , Wang Tingting , Wang Jinxian , Liu Zhelin , Zhao Bo , Wang Xinlu
Published: June 2017

An In2O3 nanorod-decorated reduced graphene oxide composite has been successfully synthesized, and this composite shows a good response, fast response time to NOx with good selectivity and low detection limit at room temperature.
Synthesis of porous Mn2O3 embedded in reduced graphene oxide as advanced anode materials for lithium storage
Authors: Zhang Lingling , Ge Danhua , Geng Hongbo , Zheng Junwei , Cao Xueqin , Gu Hongwei
Published: June 2017

The porous Mn2O3 nanospheres embedded in reduced graphene oxide delivered superior lithium storage ability including high reversible specific capacity, cycling stability and rate performances as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries.
AgNP-coordinated glucosamine-grafted carbon nanotubes with enhanced antibacterial properties
Authors: Hao X. P. , Chen S. G. , Wang W. H. , Yang Z. Q. , Yue L. F. , Sun H. Y. , Cheng F.
Published: June 2017

After glucosamine is coated on MWCNTs, the bonding force between the AgNPs and MWCNT–glucosamine increases because the charge of the O atom changes.
Enhancing upconversion luminescence by annealing processes and the high-temperature sensing of ZnO:Yb/Tm nanoparticles
Authors: Li Yuemei , Li Yongmei , Wang Rui , Xu Yanling , Zheng Wei
Published: June 2017

Temperature that affects upconversion luminescence (UCL) is important to biological sensing and magnetic imaging.
Complexes and salts of the nitrogen-rich triazole–tetrazole hybrid ligand with alkali and alkaline earth metal cations: experimental and theoretical findings
Authors: Safin Damir A. , Railliet Antoine P. , Robeyns Koen , Mitoraj Mariusz P. , Kubisiak Piotr , Sagan Filip , Garcia Yann
Published: June 2017

A series of the triazole–tetrazole based compounds with Li+, Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+ and Ba2+ was obtained and fully characterised.
Preparation of highly mesoporous honeycomb-like TiO2 and its excellent application
Authors: Wei Y. , Li M. Y. , Li X. J. , Yu K. F.
Published: June 2017

In this work, titanium sulfate and hydrazine hydrate were used as raw materials to fabricate highly mesoporous honeycomb TiO2via a two-step hydrothermal and calcination method.
In situ crystal growth of gold nanocrystals on upconversion nanoparticles for synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy
Authors: Wei Ruoyan , Xi Wensong , Wang Haifang , Liu Jinliang , Mayr Torsten , Shi Liyi , Sun Lining
Published: June 2017

A multifunctional nanocomposite was synthesized by linking pH-responsive prodrug onto gold nanocrystals that were grownin situon the surface of upconversion nanoparticles, which is bioimaging-guided multifunctional synergistic therapy agent.
Mechanistic insights into the photocatalytic properties of metal nanocluster/graphene ensembles. Examining the role of visible light in the reduction of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Koklioti Malamatenia A. , Skaltsas Theodosis , Sato Yuta , Suenaga Kazu , Stergiou Anastasios , Tagmatarchis Nikos
Published: June 2017

The high catalytic activity of AuNCs/f-G for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol under visible light is ascribed to three synergistic mechanisms.
Why nanoscale tank treads move? Structures, chemical bonding, and molecular dynamics of a doped boron cluster B10C
Authors: Wang Ying-Jin , Guo Jin-Chang , Zhai Hua-Jin
Published: June 2017

Nanoscale tank treads move due to electron delocalization. The rotational barrier correlates with the variation of bond order, rather than the absolute bond strength.
Rotating 1-D magnetic photonic crystal balls with a tunable lattice constant
Authors: Luo Wei , Yan Jindan , Tan Yali , Ma Huiru , Guan Jianguo
Published: June 2017

1-D magnetic photonic crystal balls with uniform colors can be smoothly rotated by magnetic field even when the lattice constants change with stimuli.
Pseudocapacitive-dye-molecule-based high-performance flexible supercapacitors
Authors: Yang Jie , Wang Hua , Yang Yun , Wu Jiapeng , Hu Pengfei , Guo Lin
Published: June 2017

Two kinds of widely used dye molecules including anthraquinone derivatives and phenothiazine dyes with intrinsic redox centers can be effectively decolorized and resource utilized as pseudocapacitive energy-storage materials. A new type of flexible supercapacitor based on dye wastewater has been successfully fabricated.
Mechanism of mechanically induced optoelectronic and spintronic phase transitions in 1D graphene spirals: insight into the role of interlayer coupling
Authors: Xu Xiaodong , Liu Bingyi , Zhao Wenyu , Jiang Yongyuan , Liu Linhua , Li Weiqi , Zhang Guiling , Tian Wei Quan
Published: June 2017

The underlying mechanism of the optoelectronic and spintronic phase transitions of GSs is rooted in the attenuation of the interlayer coupling.
One-pot strategy of copper-catalyzed synthesis of 1,2-disubstituted benzimidazoles
Authors: Xie Caixia , Han Xushuang , Gong Jian , Li Danyang , Ma Chen
Published: June 2017

A simple, one-pot and copper-catalyzed coupling reaction for the construction of 1,2-disubstituted benzimidazole derivatives is described. A low-cost copper salt and a weak base, K3PO4, were utilized in this reaction. A variety of 1,2-disubstituted benzimidazoles were obtained in moderate to excellent yields.
Transition from disordered aggregates to ordered lattices: kinetic control of the assembly of a computationally designed peptide
Authors: Tian Yu , Zhang Huixi Violet , Kiick Kristi L. , Saven Jeffery G. , Pochan Darrin J.
Published: June 2017

This work is showing the ability to control the kinetics of peptide assembly while leaving both the designed α-helical and tetrameric helical bundle intact.
Sterically controlled diastereoselectivity in thio-Staudinger cycloadditions of alkyl/alkenyl/aryl-substituted thioketenes
Authors: He Wei , Zhuang Junpeng , Yang Zhanhui , Xu Jiaxi
Published: June 2017

Diastereoselectivity in [2 + 2] cycloadditions of alkyl/alkenyl/arylthioketenes and imines, named as thio-Staudinger cycloaddition, was rationalized and verified.
Protective effects of lipid extract from brains of silver carp against oxidative damage in HEK-293 cells
Authors: Wang Caixia , Xia Wenshui , Jiang Qixing , Xu Yanshun , Yu Peipei
Published: June 2017

Lipids extracted form silver carp brain effectively resisted H2O2-induced oxidative injury in HEK-293 cells.
Stimulation of intestinal growth with distal ileal infusion of short-chain fatty acid: a reevaluation in a pig model
Authors: Diao H. , Jiao A. R. , Yu B. , He J. , Yu J. , Zheng P. , Huang Z. Q. , Luo Y. H. , Luo J. Q. , Mao X. B. , Chen D. W.
Published: June 2017

18 barrows with average initial body weight of 30.72 (±1.48) kg fitted with a T-cannula in the terminal ileum were randomly allotted to 3 treatments to determine the underlying mechanisms of the regulation of SCFAs on intestinal development in a pig model.
A theoretical study of an electronically mismatched Diels–Alder cycloaddition
Authors: Liu Qian , Cheng Long-Jiu , Wang Kun
Published: June 2017

The stepwise mechanism of the Diels–Alder cycloaddition between two electon-rich components.
Current advances in the utility of functionalized SBA mesoporous silica for developing encapsulated nanocatalysts: state of the art
Authors: Sadjadi S. , Heravi M. M.
Published: June 2017

The cavities of SBA mesoporous silica materials can be used as nanoreactors for embedding catalytic species such as nanoparticles, complexes and heteropolyacids etc.
Photoluminescence properties of a novel red fluoride K2LiGaF6:Mn4+nanophosphor
Authors: Zhu Yiwen , Yu Jinbo , Liu Yong , Brik Mikhail G. , Huang Lin , Xuan Tongtong , Wang Jing
Published: June 2017

The novel red phosphor K2LiGaF6:Mn4+, which exhibits a broadband excitation extending from 300 to 500 nm and an ideal narrow band emission centered at 630 nm, is a promising red phosphor candidate for application in WLEDs.
Universal self-assembly of one-component three-dimensional dodecagonal quasicrystals
Authors: Ryltsev Roman , Chtchelkatchev Nikolay
Published: June 2017

Using molecular dynamics simulations and new method based on numerical analytical continuation of the radial distribution function, we find universal criterion for dodecagonal quasicrystal formation in one-component systems with two-length-scale potentials.
Wet chemical synthesis of apatite-based waste forms – A novel room temperature method for the immobilization of radioactive iodine
Authors: Cao Charles , Chong Saehwa , Thirion Lynn , Mauro John C. , McCloy John S. , Goel Ashutosh
Published: June 2017

The wet chemical synthesis of Pb10(VO4)6I2 apatite has been reported for the first time. The possibility of substituting Ca2+ for Pb2+ and (PO4)3− for (VO4)3− in the apatite structure has been explored.
Synthesis of anion-functionalized mesoporous poly(ionic liquid)s via a microphase separation-hypercrosslinking strategy: highly efficient adsorbents for bioactive molecules
Authors: Suo Xian , Xia Ling , Yang Qiwei , Zhang Zhiguo , Bao Zongbi , Ren Qilong , Yang Yiwen , Xing Huabin
Published: June 2017

New anion-functionalized mesoporous poly(ionic liquid)s were synthesizedviaa microphase separation-hypercrosslinking strategy, and were utilized as highly efficient adsorbents for bioactive molecules.
Improvement in exercise duration, lung function and well-being in G551D-cystic fibrosis patients: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, cross-over study with ivacaftor treatment
Authors: Edgeworth Deirdre , Keating Dominic , Ellis Matthew , Button Brenda , Williams Elyssa , Clark Denise , Tierney Audrey , Heritier Stephane , Kotsimbos Tom , Wilson John
Published: June 2017

G551D, a mutation of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, results in impaired chloride channel function in cystic fibrosis (CF) with multiple end-organ manifestations. The effect of ivacaftor, a CFTR-potentiator, on exercise capacity in CF is unknown. Twenty G551D-CF patients were recruited to a single-centre, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 28-day crossover study of ivacaftor. Variables measured included percentage change from baseline (%Δ) of VO2max (maximal oxygen consumption, primary outcome) during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), relevant other CPET physiological variables, lung function, body mass index (BMI), sweat chloride and disease-specific health related quality of life (QOL) measures (CFQ-R and Alfred Wellness (AWEscore)). %ΔVO2max was unchanged compared with placebo as was %Δminute ventilation. However, %Δexercise time (mean 7.3, CI 0.5–14,1, P=0.0222) significantly increased as did %ΔFEV1 (11.7%, range 5.3–18.1, P<0·005) and %ΔBMI (1.2%, range 0.1–2.3, P=0·0393) whereas sweat chloride decreased (mean −43.4; range −55.5–18.1 mmol·l−1, P<0·005). Total and activity based domains in both CFQ-R and AWEscore also increased. A positive treatment effect on spirometry, BMI (increased), SCT (decreased) and total and activity based CF-specific QOL measures was expected. However, the lack of discernible improvement in VO2max and VE despite other positive changes including spirometric lung function and exercise time with a 28-day ivacaftor intervention suggests that ventilatory parameters are not the sole driver of change in exercise capacity in this study cohort. Investigation over a more prolonged period may delineate the potential interdependencies of the observed discordances over time. Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov-NCT01937325.
A Music-Related Quality of Life Measure to Guide Music Rehabilitation for Adult Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Dritsakis Giorgos , van Besouw Rachel M. , Kitterick Pádraig , Verschuur Carl A.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

A music-related quality of life (MuRQoL) questionnaire was developed for the evaluation of music rehabilitation for adult cochlear implant (CI) users. The present studies were aimed at refinement and validation.

Method

Twenty-four experts reviewed the MuRQoL items for face validity. A refined version was completed by 147 adult CI users, and psychometric techniques were used for item selection, assessment of reliability, and definition of the factor structure. The same participants completed the Short Form Health Survey for construct validation. MuRQoL responses from 68 CI users were compared with those of a matched group of adults with normal hearing.

Results

Eighteen items measuring music perception and engagement and 18 items measuring their importance were selected; they grouped together into 2 domains. The final questionnaire has high internal consistency and repeatability. Significant differences between CI users and adults with normal hearing and a correlation between music engagement and quality of life support construct validity. Scores of music perception and engagement and importance for the 18 items can be combined to assess the impact of music on the quality of life.

Conclusion

The MuRQoL questionnaire is a reliable and valid measure of self-reported music perception, engagement, and their importance for adult CI users with potential to guide music aural rehabilitation.
Identification of Swallowing Tasks From a Modified Barium Swallow Study That Optimize the Detection of Physiological Impairment
Authors: Jordan Hazelwood R. , Armeson Kent E. , Hill Elizabeth G. , Bonilha Heather Shaw , Martin-Harris Bonnie
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify which swallowing task(s) yielded the worst performance during a standardized modified barium swallow study (MBSS) in order to optimize the detection of swallowing impairment.

Method

This secondary data analysis of adult MBSSs estimated the probability of each swallowing task yielding the derived Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP™©; Martin-Harris et al., 2008) Overall Impression (OI; worst) scores using generalized estimating equations. The range of probabilities across swallowing tasks was calculated to discern which swallowing task(s) yielded the worst performance.

Results

Large-volume, thin-liquid swallowing tasks had the highest probabilities of yielding the OI scores for oral containment and airway protection. The cookie swallowing task was most likely to yield OI scores for oral clearance. Several swallowing tasks had nearly equal probabilities (≤ .20) of yielding the OI score.

Conclusions

The MBSS must represent impairment while requiring boluses that challenge the swallowing system. No single swallowing task had a sufficiently high probability to yield the identification of the worst score for each physiological component. Omission of swallowing tasks will likely fail to capture the most severe impairment for physiological components critical for safe and efficient swallowing. Results provide further support for standardized, well-tested protocols during MBSS.
The Impact of Presupposition on the Syntax and Morphology of a Child Who Uses AAC
Authors: Solomon-Rice Patti L. , Soto Gloria , Heidenreich Wesley
Published: June 2017

Children with complex communication needs often rely on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to communicate. Use of AAC can result in messages with limited syntax and morphology that are difficult for communication partners to understand. This case study examines the linguistic productions of a child who uses high-tech AAC, with emerging literacy skills, under two pragmatic presupposition conditions. In Condition 1, the child believes the communication partner has a larger amount of background information about the topic being discussed. In Condition 2, the child presupposes the communication partner has less background information about the topic being discussed. Condition 2 resulted in the child's production of more complex morphology and syntax in comparison to Condition 1. The results suggest pragmatic presupposition might have impacted the level of morphologic and syntactic complexity produced. Possible clinical implications and suggestions for facilitating production of linguistically complex sentences are discussed.
Multimodal Communication Program for Adults: Cognitive Considerations
Authors: Wallace Sarah E. , Diehl Sarah
Published: June 2017

People with complex communication needs often rely on a system of augmentative and alternative communication strategies. The Multimodal Communication Program (MCP) was developed for people with aphasia, but was also explored with people with traumatic brain injury. MCP aims to increase breakdown resolution via integrated instruction in multiple communication modalities. Although implementation and results vary across studies, factors such as cognitive impairments warrant further investigation and potential modifications. The purpose of this article was to review the effect of cognitive impairments during implementation of MCP relative to cognitive impairments. Recommendations and considerations for the clinicians are provided.
Flexible and stretchable 3D printed passive UHF RFID tag
Authors: Rizwan M. , Khan M.W.A. , He H. , Virkki J. , Sydänheimo L. , Ukkonen L.
Published: June 2017

The fabrication and analysis of a flexible and stretchable 3D printed passive ultra‐high frequency (UHF) radio‐frequency identification (RFID) tag are presented. The tag is fabricated on a flexible 3D printed Ninjaflex substrate and the conductive part of the tag consists of stretchable silver conductive paste dispensed with direct write method. The details of the 3D printing of the substrate, the characterisation of the substrate material at the UHF band, the direct write dispensing of the tag antenna, and the simulation and wireless measurement results of the fabricated tag are outlined. Moreover, to verify the flexibility and stretchability of the tag, strain reliability results of the tag are presented. Measurement results show that initially the manufactured tag achieves a 10.6 m read range. After 100 times of harsh stretching, the read range is still 7.4 m. Overall, the performance of the tag is robust and concludes that the fabrication methodology can be used in the manufacturing of RFID tags for future identification and sensing applications.
Forward scatter radar for remote intelligence of building interiors
Authors: van Rossum W.L. , de Wit J.J.M.
Published: June 2017

Through‐wall radar allows for remote intelligence of building interiors including stand‐off detection and tracking of persons inside a building. However, reliable radar tracking of people inside a building is not trivial. Conventional, monostatic through‐wall radar measures the backscatter of moving people. The backscatter from a human is relatively low compared with the scattering from building features or furniture. The forward scatter radar (FSR) concept is proposed to detect and possibly track moving people in specific areas of a building. The FSR concept exploits the forward scatter (FS) of objects, which is typically larger than their backscatter; for humans a factor of 20 is possible. It is shown that stand‐off detection of moving people inside a building can be performed reliably and consistently based on their FS.
Process capability control procedure for electrical machines by using a six‐sigma process for achieving six‐sigma quality level
Authors: Jun Cha‐Seung , Kwon Byung‐Il
Published: June 2017

An overall six‐sigma process (SSP) that includes a novel process capability control (PCC) procedure is presented for satisfying a six‐sigma level for a Z‐value as well as a mean value of target performance. An example of this process is present for the efficiency and torque ripple in a spoke‐type permanent magnet motor considering the manufacturing tolerances of five rotor dimensions. In this context, six‐sigma means that the probability of failure of the product or system is 0.00034%. A novel SSP with a PCC procedure is suggested for designing electrical machines. In this procedure, three possible PCC methods were determined based on the definition of the Z‐value. Next, each method was carried out to achieve the target Z‐value and to illustrate the advantages and possible issues associated with each method. Finally, the authors showed that the suggested PCC procedure effectively achieves the target Z‐value of the motor and can be widely used for the design of electrical machines.
Using probabilistic collocation method for neighbouring wind farms modelling and power flow computation of South Australia grid
Authors: Yin Hang , Zivanovic Rastko
Published: June 2017

In this study, the probabilistic collocation method (PCM) is proposed to construct a stochastic correlation model of wind speeds at neighbouring wind farms and solve probabilistic power flow (PPF) of South Australia (SA) grid. Based on the historical sampled wind source data, the model is developed to reduce the number of uncertain parameters of the power system model by considering the spatial correlation of wind speeds between neighbouring wind farms. Furthermore, this model aims to increase the computational efficiency of PCM when dealing with PPF simulation. Finally, the computation efficiency and accuracy of the PCM, compared with traditional Monte Carlo simulation method, are validated by the simulation results of aggregated power flow model of SA case studies.
Multi‐verse optimisation: a novel method for solution of load frequency control problem in power system
Authors: Guha Dipayan , Roy Provas Kumar , Banerjee Subrata
Published: June 2017

In this article, a maiden attempt has been made to derive an optimal and effective outcome of load frequency control problem (LFC) using a novel evolutionary algorithm called multi‐verse optimisation. The main inspiration of this algorithm is based on three concepts in cosmology: white hole, black hole, and wormhole. To show the effectiveness, a four‐area hydrothermal power plant with distinct proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) controller is investigated at the first instant and then the study is forwarded to the five‐area thermal power plant. To enhance the dynamic stability, an optimal PID plus double‐derivative controller (PID + DD) is designed and included in the control areas. The superiority of the proposed method has been established over some recently addressed control algorithms by transient analysis method. To add some degree of non‐linearity, generation rate constraint and governor dead band are included in the model and their impacts on the system dynamics have been examined. Finally, a random load perturbation is given to the test systems to affirm the robustness of the designed controllers.
Space mapping optimisation of 2D array elements arrangement to reduce the radar cross‐scattering
Authors: Xu Juan , Li Mengmeng , Chen Rushan
Published: June 2017

The authors propose a novel aggressive space mapping (ASM) algorithm for the two‐dimensional antenna array elements arrangement to reduce the antenna array radar cross‐scattering; meanwhile, to ensure the radiation performance. The coarse model is evaluated with genetic algorithm and analytic formulations, the fine model verification is computed with the full wave method of moments (MoMs) enhanced by the equivalence principle algorithm (EPA). The high‐order basis functions and matrix compression technique are employed in the EPA‐MoM for further accelerations. Only small number of iterations in the ASM optimisation is required for the fine model verification, to achieve the optimisation requirements. Numerical tests of the horn antenna array optimisation with moderate time are presented to show the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
High‐gain printed monopole arrays with low‐complexity corporate‐feed network
Authors: Farran Mohamad , Boscolo Stefano , Locatelli Andrea , Capobianco Antonio‐Daniele , Midrio Michele , Ferrari Vittorio , Modotto Daniele
Published: June 2017

Printed monopole antennas fed by microstrip lines can provide a wide bandwidth and can be employed as terminal antennas in RF circuits. In the same perspective, the authors propose a novel planar array in which N + 1 parasitic monopoles, properly placed in a linear array where only N directly‐fed monopoles are used, allow a broadside radiation and a gain value close to that of a standard printed array composed of 2N + 1 directly‐fed elements. To verify the validity of the proposed design, prototype arrays for the S and C bands, composed of five‐ and nine‐monopoles, are simulated, fabricated and tested. In addition, it is demonstrated that a flat metal sheet placed at 0.25 λ0 from the array board can further increase the directivity of about 3 dB; as a result, the measured gain is ∼10 dB for the five‐monopole array and 14 dB for the nine‐monopole array. Owing to their large fractional bandwidth (30%) and high gain, these monopole arrays may work as external antennas for high‐data‐rate point‐to‐point transmissions or for C‐band radar sensors.
Compact low‐profile UWB antenna with characteristic mode analysis for UHF TV white space devices
Authors: Zhang Qianyun , Gao Yue
Published: June 2017

A compact ultra‐high frequency (UHF) ultra‐wideband (UWB) antenna for Television TV white space (TVWS) applications is presented in this study. The proposed radiating body is transformed from a rectangular plate following physical essence revealed by characteristic mode analysis. Modal current distributions and their contributions to the total radiation are further analysed after printing the radiating body onto a thin substrate. It is proved that the structure achieves efficient radiation over a wide range of frequencies by exciting multiple modes. In addition, effects of significant parameters on the antenna performance are discussed, and according to which the geometry is optimised. A prototype is fabricated and measured to verify its ultra‐wide impedance bandwidth and monopole‐like radiation pattern. Realised gain and radiation efficiency over the UHF TV spectrum are also measured. The bandwidth efficiency product against antenna electrical size are analysed and compared with theoretical limit and products of existing designs.
Analytical approach for compact shorting pin circular patch antenna
Authors: Chapari Amin , Zeidaabadi Nezhad Abolghasem , Firouzeh Zaker Hossein
Published: June 2017

An analytical approach for calculating resonant frequencies of a circular microstrip antenna loaded with a shorting pin in arbitrary position is presented based on the cavity model. The antennas can be used as small antennas since their fundamental resonance frequency is lower than that of a regular circular patch antenna. Two scattered waves are used to modify the electric field of the antenna in the presence of the pin. The scattered waves are considered based on the theory of scattering in conjunction with the image method. The first scattered wave is produced by the pin while the second one is the wave backscattered by the patch edge of the antenna. The backscattered wave is assumed to be generated by the images of the pin with respect to the patch edge. It is shown that the proposed approach can predict the resonant frequency of the antenna reasonably adequate. Furthermore, it can be extended in the case of several shorting pins. The obtained results from the method are compared with the achieved results from the simulations, the measurements, and the relative previous analytical models, to confirm the quality of the approach.
High step‐up high step‐down bidirectional DC/DC converter
Authors: Babaei Ebrahim , Saadatizadeh Zahra , Cecati Carlo
Published: June 2017

In this study, a new high step‐up high step‐down bidirectional dc–dc converter is proposed. In the proposed converter, the voltage conversion ratio is increased by using two coupled inductors and switched capacitor circuit in both boost and buck operations. The proposed bidirectional converter in comparison with other presented high‐voltage gain boost converters with two coupled inductors in the literature has the highest voltage conversion ratio. In this study, the proposed topology is analysed in all operating modes and the current and voltage stresses of all switches, voltage gain and maximum and minimum current through the inductors are calculated for both boost and buck operations. Finally, the accuracy of the obtained analytical results and correct operation of the proposed converter are verified through PSCAD/EMTDC simulation and experimental results.
Hämodialyse vs. Peritonealdialyse
Authors: Haag-Weber Marianne
Published: June 2017

Hämodialyse (HD) und Peritonealdialyse (PD) sind 2 gleichwertige, aber unterschiedliche Verfahren. In den letzten 25 Jahren hat sich das Langzeitüberleben der Dialysepatienten trotz der Zunahme des Alters und der Komorbiditäten verbessert. Während die PD in den 1980er-Jahren im Vergleich zur HD eine deutlich höhere Mortalität aufwies, sind die Mortalitätsraten von HD und PD seit 2002 vergleichbar. Grund dafür ist, dass es bei der PD in den letzten Jahren in der Therapie mehr Veränderungen gab als bei der HD. Bei der PD entwickelte sich ein verstärktes Bewusstsein für eine Optimierung des Volumenmanagements. Dies wurde erleichtert durch eine differenziertere Therapie mit dem Einsatz von Cyclern bei High-Transportern und der Verwendung von Icodextrin. Während bei der HD die dialyseassoziierten Infektionen insbesondere auch durch eine höhere Rate an Vorhofkathetern gestiegen sind, hat sich die PD-assoziierte Infektionsrate kontinuierlich verbessert. Die Hospitalisierungsraten aufgrund von dialyseassoziierten Infektionen sind mittlerweile vergleichbar. Es besteht in den Studien ein Trend für ein etwas besseres Patientenüberleben in den ersten Jahren bei einem Dialysebeginn mit der PD. Entscheidend für die Auswahl des Verfahrens sollte jedoch die Lebensqualität des Patienten sein.
Kleinhirninfarkt nach CO-Intoxikation und hyperbarer Sauerstofftherapie
Authors: Wick Matthias , Schneiker André , Bele Sylvia , Pawlik Michael , Meyringer Helmut , Graf Bernhard , Wendl Christina , Kieninger Martin
Published: June 2017

Es wird von einem Patienten berichtet, der nach einem Suizidversuch mittels Kohlenmonoxidintoxikation einen raumfordernden Kleinhirninfarkt und konsekutiven okklusiven Hydrozephalus entwickelte. Durch das rechtzeitige Detektieren der intrazerebralen Läsion konnte ein Überleben des Patienten ohne schwerwiegendes neurologisches Defizit ermöglicht werden.
Welche Rolle spielt die Immunonkologie beim Urothelkarzinom aus pathologischer Sicht?
Authors: Erlmeier Franziska , Steffens Sandra , Hartmann Arndt
Published: June 2017

Immuntherapeutika, wie beispielsweise die Programmed death 1-(PD-1-)Antikörper Pembrolizumab und Nivolumab, sind bei mehreren Tumorentitäten, wie z. B. dem malignen Melanom, in Europa bereits in der Erstlinientherapie zugelassen. Nach dem durchschlagenden Erfolg dieser Antikörper bei zahlreichen Tumorarten wird nun auch der mögliche Einsatz in der Uroonkologie erforscht. Die Zulassung des PD-1-Antikörpers Nivolumab für die Therapie des metastasierten Nierenzellkarzinoms setzte in der Uroonkologie einen neuen Meilenstein. Im Mai 2016 wurde dieser Erfolg durch die Zulassung des Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1)-Antikörpers Atezolizumab beim fortgeschrittenen Urothelkarzinom fortgeführt.

Außerdem laufen derzeit zahlreiche klinische Studien mit anderen Checkpoint-Inhibitoren, welche ebenfalls eine vielversprechende Wirksamkeit beim fortgeschrittenen Urothelkarzinom zeigen.

Die Grundlage für den Einsatz dieser Immuntherapeutika bildet unter anderem die immunhistochemische Auswertung des Tumors durch den Pathologen. Um eine einheitliche pathologische Bewertung zu erzielen, besteht aktuell jedoch noch ein erheblicher Standardisierungsbedarf. Bis dato werden sowohl unterschiedliche Bewertungssysteme als auch unterschiedliche Detektionssysteme für ein und denselben Antikörper angewandt. Dadurch wird die Vergleichbarkeit der Studien und damit die Beurteilung der Wirksamkeit der jeweiligen Antikörper erschwert.
Ischemic Preconditioning and Acute Recovery of Performance in Rugby Union Players
Authors: Garcia Cintia , da Mota Gustavo , Leicht Anthony , Marocolo Moacir
Published: June 2017

Ischemic preconditioning has been used as a training and/or pre-competition strategy; however its use for post-exercise recovery is still unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of ischemic preconditioning on performance and recovery ratings following a simulated match in sub-elite rugby players. Following baseline measures, male players (n=8) performed a 40 min, rugby-specific exercise protocol followed by an intervention: 21 min of ischemic preconditioning (3×5 min occlusion at 220 mmHg with 2 min reperfusion at 0 mmHg) or passive rest (control) on 2 separate days. An agility T-test, a single vertical countermovement jump and 30 s of continuous vertical jumps were performed at baseline (–24 h), immediately after exercise, and immediately after the intervention. The rugby-specific exercise protocol induced similar mean heart rates (158.3±18.0 vs. 158.7±16.0 bpm) and perceived exertion levels (8.2±0.9 vs. 8.0±1.0) for both trials with all recovery performance measures and rating of recovery (13.9±1.4 vs. 13.6±1.6) similar between ischemic preconditioning and control trials (best p=0.385). We conclude that the use of ischemic preconditioning does not improve recovery acutely (~1 h) including specific variables related to rugby performance in amateur rugby union players.
Micronutrient Supplementation does not Change Complement System Response to Heavy Training
Authors: Santos José , Zacca Rodrigo , Fernandes Ricardo
Published: June 2017

We aimed to examine the micronutrient supplementation effect on complement system activity after heavy training. 24 male firefighters were randomly divided into supplemented and placebo groups, and tested for immunology-related parameters using venous blood samples in the fasting state pre- and post-5 weeks of nutritional supplementation. C3 and C4 complement components were determined in a nephelometer from immune complexes formed through specific human antisera and total haemolytic complement activity (CH100) was determined by enzyme immunoassay. Differences between pre- and post-supplementation were observed only for CH100 on placebo group (p=0.004; mean diff −26.92; 95%CI −43.58 to −10.25) and no interaction, treatment or time effects were observed for C3 and C4. Although interaction accounted for 8.8% of the total variance in CH100 (with time effect pre- vs post-accounting for 19.5% of the total variance), the treatment effect (supplemented vs placebo) was not significant. The absence of effects on the complement system response to supplementation during heavy training could be justified by the fact that: (i) nutritional supplements do not improve humoral innate immunity in well-fed subjects; (ii) selected supplements unlikely improve the innate immune system in situations of adequate nutritional status; and/or (iii) selected doses of supplementation were not sufficient to elicit immune changes.
Credit Card Applications Pending – Who are Our Best Prospect Cardholders? Improved Decisions through Business Analytics and Business Intelligence
Authors: Chongwatpol Jongsawas
Published: June 2017

This case is designed to illustrate how to utilize the business intelligence framework and business analytics to make proper decisions in the turbulent and competitive business environment. The case started when Jong, the junior vice president in the modeling and analyst department of ABC Bank of Thailand, and his team were drafting a proposal presentation on the new credit card approval processes. Jong believed that it was time to overhaul credit card application processes by employing more sophisticated analytical techniques to analyze customer and credit card data. ABC- Premier Card, the bank's most popular card offering, would be a serendipitous test case in which to further develop the idea about improvements in approving credit card applications. Currently, there were 5 ABC- Premier card applications pending for decision in the house file. Tightening the credit approval process was one of the important strategies for the bank to potentially avoid an increase of risky customers. However, overly strict declinations of credit card applications might alienate potential customers and causing the bank to forego profitable lending opportunities. Taking the ABC- Premier card applications as a testing scenario, Jong and his team had to come up with a new method to evaluate each credit card applicant. They could approve all of them instantly, approve some of them, or even decline all of them. Consequently, Jong hoped that this proposed credit card approval method would improve the bank's policy decision to optimally balance both risky and profitable customers in the long run.
Deterministic submanifolds and analytic solution of the quantum stochastic differential master equation describing a monitored qubit
Authors: Sarlette Alain , Rouchon Pierre
Published: June 2017

This paper studies the stochastic differential equation (SDE) associated with a two-level quantum system (qubit) subject to Hamiltonian evolution as well as unmonitored and monitored decoherence channels. The latter imply a stochastic evolution of the quantum state (density operator), whose associated probability distribution we characterize. We first show that for two sets of typical experimental settings, corresponding either to weak quantum non-demolition measurements or to weak fluorescence measurements, the three Bloch coordinates of the qubit remain confined to a deterministically evolving surface or curve inside the Bloch sphere. We explicitly solve the deterministic evolution, and we provide a closed-form expression for the probability distribution on this surface or curve. Then we relate the existence in general of such deterministically evolving submanifolds to an accessibility question of control theory, which can be answered with an explicit algebraic criterion on the SDE. This allows us to show that, for a qubit, the above two sets of weak measurements are essentially the only ones featuring deterministic surfaces or curves.
Dynamics of vortices with magnetic impurities
Authors: Cockburn Alexander , Krusch Steffen , Muhamed Abera A.
Published: June 2017

We investigate the dynamics of Bogomolny-Prasad-Sommerfield (BPS) vortices in the presence of magnetic impurities taking the form of axially symmetric localised lumps and delta-functions. We present numerical results for vortices on flat space, as well as exact results for vortices on hyperbolic space in the presence of delta-function impurities. In fact, delta-function impurities of appropriate strength can be captured within the moduli space approximation by keeping one or more of the vortices fixed. We also show that previous work on vortices on the 2-sphere extends naturally to the inclusion of delta-function impurities.
Poloidal asymmetry in the narrow heat flux feature in the TCV scrape-off layer
Authors: Tsui C. K. , Boedo J. A. , Halpern F. D. , Loizu J. , Nespoli F. , Horacek J. , Labit B. , Morales J. , Reimerdes H. , Ricci P. , Theiler C. , Coda S. , Duval B. P. , Furno I. ,   TCV Team,   EUROfusion MST1 Team
Published: June 2017

Heat flux profiles inferred from a reciprocating probe at the outer midplane of the TCV tokamak during inner wall limited discharges feature radial fall-off lengths that shorten near the last closed flux surface (LCFS) consistent with the so-called narrow feature. The narrow feature is significantly wider on the outboard side compared with that measured on the inner wall by infrared thermography, so it is difficult to discern from the main scrape-off layer feature. After small shifts were applied for alignment, the fraction of the power contained in the narrow feature matches between inboard and outboard measurements, and they scale together with plasma current Ip, suggesting that we are observing the same phenomenon. The outboard side fall-off length within the narrow feature is found to scale closely with the radial correlation length of the edge turbulence as expected if the narrow feature arises due to radially sheared E × B flows. This is found to hold true even for cases where the narrow feature is weak and the fall-off lengths are approaching that of the far scrape-off layer. After the small shifts for alignment, non-zero floating potential profiles were found to match between inboard and outboard sides. A simple model of polarization and diamagnetic cross-field currents is described, which is consistent with the shape of these floating potential profiles. The model predicts that the floating potential at the LCFS must be negative, which supports the argument to shift the upstream measurements. The predicted currents are also consistent with the E × B flows believed to cause the narrow feature. The model is used to predict the magnitude of the floating potential of the LCFS, and the results are found to match measurements for all values of Ip. This paper therefore demonstrates consistency between the measurements of the narrow feature on the inboard and outboard sides of the plasma, as well as consistency between the measurements, non-linear turbulence simulations, and analytical models of the narrow feature arising from sheared E × B flows.
Interaction of rigid C3N− with He: Potential energy surface, bound states, and rotational spectrum
Authors: Lara-Moreno Miguel , Stoecklin Thierry , Halvick Philippe
Published: June 2017

A two-dimensional rigid rotor model of the potential energy surface is developed for the collision of C3N− with He. Ab initio calculations are performed at the coupled cluster level with single and double excitations and using a perturbative treatment of triple excitations. An augmented correlation consistent polarized valence quadruple zeta basis set complemented with a set of mid-bond functions is chosen for these calculations. The global T-shaped minimum (De = 62.114 cm−1) is found at the intermolecular distance R = 6.42 a0. A secondary minimum (De = 41.384 cm−1) is obtained for the linear configuration C3N−–He and for R = 9.83 a0. Calculations of the rovibrational bound states are carried out by using a discrete variable representation method based on Sturmian functions. The first theoretical prediction of the absorption spectra for the He–C3N− complex in the microwave region is also provided.
Nonlinear propagation of kinetic Alfvén wave and turbulent spectrum in reconnection region of magnetotail
Authors: Yadav Nitin , Rai Rajesh Kumar , Sharma Prachi , Uma R. , Sharma R. P.
Published: June 2017

Kinetic Alfvén waves (KAWs) are known to play an important role in magnetic reconnection as well as in turbulence. In the present work, we have derived the dynamical equation of KAWs propagating through Harris sheet. It is assumed that background density gets modified due to nonlinearity and background field gets modified due to the presence of Harris sheet. This nonlinear dynamical equation is then solved semi-analytically as well as numerically. Due to the presence of background density and field perturbations, Harris sheet gets perturbed and propagating nonlinear KAWs undergoes localization and coherent structures are formed. The transverse scale size of these structures comes of the order of ion gyro radius which is consistent with the observations as well as with the results obtained from the paraxial approach based simplified model also. We have investigated the role of KAWs in the formation of current sheet/coherent structures due to the propagation of nonlinear KAWs through the Harris sheet. Based on these coherent structures, we have evaluated the power spectrum also and found that the obtained scaling after first breakpoint is quite consistent with the observation reported by Chaston et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 102, 015001 (2009)] in the ion diffusion region of magnetotail.