bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Miniaturized wideband quadrifilar helix antenna for satellite navigation application
Authors: Pu Yurong , Wang Haoyu , Zhao Yuchen , Yuan Yanning , Xi Xiaoli ,   IEEE Member
Published: August 2020

In this article, we present a method for designing miniaturized and broadband quadrifilar helix antenna, which has better bandwidth than other smaller antennas and more compact than larger bandwidth antennas. The antennae in this design have same size with axial lengths of 24 mm and diameters of 18 mm. The antennae are miniaturized by folded arms and dielectric loading. In both cases, a short pin is added to adjust the impedance matching and broaden the bandwidth. Inside and outside diameters of the loading dielectric cylinder are the parameters used for controlling the center frequency, which can be shifted between 1.2 and 1.8 GHz. An antenna with a central frequency of 1.5 GHz was simulated and measured to verify the design. In addition, this design could provide bandwidth of 100 MHz for satellite navigation application. Two antennae, operating at 1.227 and 1.575 GHz with 100 MHz bandwidth, are simulated. The 1.227 GHz antenna covers GPS L2, BEIDOU B2 and B3, GLONASS G2, and Galileo E5b bands. The 1.57 GHz antenna covers GPS L1, BEIDOU B1, B1C, B1I, and Galileo E1 bands.
Evaluation of Bimodal Polyethylene from Chromium Oxide/Metallocene Hybrid Catalysts for High Resistance Applications
Authors: Paredes Beatriz , Moreno Jovita , Carrero Alicia , van Grieken Rafael
Published: August 2020

An interesting alternative to the industrial two‐stage cascade process for the production of bimodal polyethylene, used for high resistance applications such as pressure pipes, has been developed. The key point is a binary catalytic system with chromium and metallocene sites incorporated together on AlSBA‐15 mesostructured material. This hybrid catalyst is able to produce bimodal polyethylene in a single reactor. In the present work, it is shown that, in the presence of hydrogen and comonomer (1‐butene or 1‐hexene) in the reaction medium, the obtained polyethylenes exhibit appropriate mechanical properties for pipes manufacture, such as resistance to rapid crack propagation (RCP) and slow crack growth (SCG), reaching standards for PE100 and even for PE100RC grades.
An electrodiagnostic grading system for ulnar neuropathy at the elbow
Authors: Zeidman Lawrence A. , Pandey Dilip K.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) is the second most common entrapment neuropathy. Our goal was to create and analyze a grading system for UNE electrodiagnostic severity.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed EMG reports with UNE. We then classified 112 limbs as having mild, moderate, or severe grade UNE based on electrodiagnostic findings. The association between presenting symptoms and signs, EMG findings, treatment type, and electrodiagnostic grade was statistically analyzed.

Results

Seventeen limbs (15.2%) had mild, 80 (71.4%) had moderate, and 15 (13.4%) had severe UNE. Symptoms (P = .016), exam findings (P < .001), and treatment type (P = .043) were significantly associated with electrodiagnostic grade.

Discussion

Our UNE grading system was significantly related to symptoms, physical exam, and treatment selection and may be useful to measure electrodiagnostic severity.
Light Trap Effectiveness to Capture Razorback Sucker Larvae in a Large Floodplain Wetland
Authors: Vlaming Catherine M. , Bestgen Kevin R.
Published: August 2020

Light trap captures of larval Razorback Sucker Xyrauchen texanus are used to trigger flow releases from Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which inundate floodplain wetland nursery habitat in the Green River, Utah. However, because little is known about the efficacy of traps to capture or retain larvae under field-relevant conditions, we conducted an exploratory study using releases of unmarked and marked (oxytetracycline hydrochloride) early life stages of Razorback Sucker (mesolarval life stage, hereafter called “larvae”) in the 53-ha Leota-10 wetland of the middle Green River. Batches of 10, 50, 250, or 1,000 larvae were released 3- or 10-m from light traps. Light traps had either chemical light stick or LED light sources, and releases were made on two successive evenings to assess recapture proportions. Light traps recaptured larvae each night and at all release abundances in this large and open habitat. Recapture proportions (number recaptured per number released) for individual traps ranged from 0 to 0.68 (mean = 0.11) over the two release nights. Because recapture proportions were similar over all release abundances, light trap captures may be an index of larvae abundance. In addition, recapture proportions of larvae in traps (light sources combined) were not influenced by release distance. Nonsignificant tests for release distance and release abundance effects had low statistical power resulting from high sample variability and modest sample sizes, so additional experiments are required to confirm those results. The ANCOVA also indicated that traps with an LED light source had consistently higher recapture proportions than traps lit with chemical light sticks, in support of laboratory findings. Although additional experiments with greater replication are needed to better understand attraction distance, release abundance, and retention effects, light traps may be a useful tool to monitor presence and abundance of larvae. This information will aid management and conservation of endangered Razorback Sucker in the Colorado River basin.
Decreased bone mineral density in ovariectomized mice is ameliorated after subsequent repeated intermittent administration of (R)‐ketamine, but not (S)‐ketamine
Authors: Fujita Yuko , Hashimoto Kenji
Published: August 2020

Aim

Depression is a common symptom in people with osteoporosis. (R)‐ketamine produced greater potency and longer‐lasting antidepressant‐like actions than (S)‐ketamine in rodents. Here, we examined the effects of two ketamine enantiomers on the reduced bone mineral density (BMD) in the ovariectomized (OVX) mice which is an animal model of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Methods

Female ddY mice were OVX or sham‐operated. Subsequently, saline (10 mL/kg/d, twice weekly), (R)‐ketamine (10 mg/kg/d, twice weekly), or (S)‐ketamine (10 mg/kg/d, twice weekly) was administered intraperitoneally into OVX or sham mice for the 6 weeks. The femur from all mice was collected 3 days after the final injection, and BMD in the femur was measured.

Results

The reduction of cortical BMD and total BMD in the OVX mice was significantly ameliorated after subsequent repeated intermittent administration of (R)‐ketamine, but not (S)‐ketamine.

Conclusion

The study shows that (R)‐ketamine can ameliorate the reduced cortical BMD and total BMD in OVX mice. Therefore, (R)‐ketamine would be a novel therapeutic drug for women with osteoporosis.
Convergence analysis of a hp‐finite element approximation of the time‐harmonic Maxwell equations with impedance boundary conditions in domains with an analytic boundary
Authors: Nicaise Serge , Tomezyk Jérôme
Published: August 2020

We consider a nonconforming hp‐finite element approximation of a variational formulation of the time‐harmonic Maxwell equations with impedance boundary conditions proposed by Costabel et al. The advantages of this formulation is that the variational space is embedded in H1 as soon as the boundary is smooth enough (in particular it holds for domains with an analytic boundary) and standard shift theorem can be applied since the associated boundary value problem is elliptic. Finally in order to perform a wavenumber explicit error analysis of our problem, a splitting lemma and an estimation of the adjoint approximation quantity are proved by adapting to our system the results from Melenk and Sauter obtained for the Helmholtz equation. Some numerical tests that illustrate our theoretical results are also presented. Analytic regularity results with bounds explicit in the wavenumber of the solution of a general elliptic system with lower order terms depending on the wavenumber are needed and hence proved.
Retracted: Weight Bias, Shame, and Self‐Compassion: Risk/Protective Mechanisms of Depression and Anxiety in Prebariatic Surgery Patients
Authors: Braun Tosca D. , Quinn Diane M. , Stone Andrea , Gorin Amy A. , Ferrand Jennifer , Puhl Rebecca M. , Sierra Jessica , Tishler Darren , Papasavas Pavlos
Published: August 2020

Objective

Psychopathology in bariatric surgery patients may contribute to adverse postoperative sequelae, including weight regain, substance use, and self‐harm. This cross‐sectional study aimed to advance the understanding of the risk and protective paths through which weight bias associates with depressive and anxiety symptoms in bariatric surgery candidates (BSC).

Methods

BSC recruited from a surgical clinic (N = 213, 82.2% women, 43  [SD 12] years, mean BMI: 49  [SD 9] kg/m2) completed measures of experienced weight bias (EWB), internalized weight bias (IWB), body and internalized shame, and self‐compassion; anxiety and depression screeners were accessed from medical charts. Multiple regression and PROCESS bootstrapping estimates tested our hypothesized mediation model as follows: EWB→IWB→body shame→shame→self‐compassion→symptoms.

Results

After accounting for EWB and IWB, internalized shame accounted for greater variance in both end points than body shame. EWB was associated with greater anxiety through risk paths implicating IWB, body shame, and/or internalized shame. Protective paths associated EWB with fewer depressive and anxiety symptoms among those with higher self‐compassion.

Conclusions

The findings suggest a potentially important role for weight bias and shame in psychological health among BSC and implicate self‐compassion, a trainable affect‐regulation strategy, as a protective factor that may confer some resiliency. Future research using longitudinal and causal designs is warranted.
Difference in Housing Temperature‐Induced Energy Expenditure Elicits Sex‐Specific Diet‐Induced Metabolic Adaptations in Mice
Authors: Morris E. Matthew , Noland Roberto D. , Allen Julie A. , McCoin Colin S. , Xia Qing , Koestler Devin C. , Shook Robin P. , Lighton John R. B. , Christianson Julie A. , Thyfault John P.
Published: August 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to test whether increased energy expenditure (EE), independent of physical activity, reduces acute diet‐induced weight gain through tighter coupling of energy intake to energy demand and enhanced metabolic adaptations.

Methods

Indirect calorimetry and quantitative magnetic resonance imaging were used to assess energy metabolism and body composition during 7‐day high‐fat/high‐sucrose (HFHS) feeding in male and female mice housed at divergent temperatures (20°C vs. 30°C).

Results

As previously observed, 30°C housing resulted in lower total EE and energy intake compared with 20°C mice regardless of sex. Interestingly, housing temperature did not impact HFHS‐induced weight gain in females, whereas 30°C male mice gained more weight than 20°C males. Energy intake coupling to EE during HFHS feeding was greater in 20°C versus 30°C housing, with females greater at both temperatures. Fat mass gain was greater in 30°C mice compared with 20°C mice, whereas females gained less fat mass than males. Strikingly, female 20°C mice gained considerably more fat‐free mass than 30°C mice. Reduced fat mass gain was associated with greater metabolic flexibility to HFHS, whereas fat‐free mass gain was associated with diet‐induced adaptive thermogenesis.

Conclusions

These data reveal that EE and sex interact to impact energy homeostasis and metabolic adaptation to acute HFHS feeding, altering weight gain and body composition change.

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Is Growth Hormone Insufficiency the Missing Link Between Obesity, Male Gender, Age, and COVID‐19 Severity?
Authors: Lubrano Carla , Masi Davide , Risi Renata , Balena Angela , Watanabe Mikiko , Mariani Stefania , Gnessi Lucio
Published: August 2020

Evidence has emerged regarding an increased risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) with worse prognosis in elderly male patients with obesity, and blunted growth hormone (GH) secretion represents a feature of this population subgroup. Here, a comprehensive review of the possible links between GH–insulinlike growth factor 1 axis impairment and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) severity is offered. First, unequivocal evidence suggests that immune system dysregulation represents a key element in determining SARS‐CoV‐2 severity, as well as the association with adult‐onset GH deficiency (GHD); notably, if GH is physiologically involved in the development and maintenance of the immune system, its pharmacological replacement in GHD patients seems to positively influence their inflammatory status. In addition, the impaired fibrinolysis associated with GHD may represent a further link between GH–insulin‐like growth factor 1 axis impairment and COVID‐19 severity, as it has been associated with both conditions. In conclusion, several sources of evidence have supported a relationship between GHD and COVID‐19, and they also shed light upon potential beneficial effects of recombinant GH treatment on COVID‐19 patients.
Dynamic Connectedness among BRICS and Major Countries Stock Markets
Authors: Panda Pradiptarathi , Vasudevan Shobana , Panda Babita
Published: August 2020

The present study examines the interaction of regional stock indices with developed countries' stock indices on stock markets of the Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) countries. A total of 16 stock indices have been considered in this study. All daily data have been collected from August 2, 2002 to December 28, 2017 in terms of USD. The study period is subdivided into pre, during, and post‐global financial crisis periods. After ensuring the stationarity of the return series, the study employs Diebold and Yilmaz (2012) volatility spillover index to find the country having the net transmitter and net receiver of volatility. The study finds that the net volatility spillover has doubled during the crisis period, and it has come down to half in the post‐crisis period. The study depicts that in all the periods under study, the net volatility receivers are Brazil, Hong Kong, Germany, and Japan, whereas net volatility transmitters are South Africa, London, and the United States. The study also finds that China, Australia, Russia, and India are net volatility transmitters as well as net volatility receivers, depending on the crisis period. The result of this study may help the foreign portfolio investors to diversify their portfolio across BRICS countries.
Do financial development drive remittances? Empirical evidence from India
Authors: Pandikasala Jijin , Vyas Iti , Mani Nithin
Published: August 2020

Remittances being a stable inflow of foreign currency, account for a substantial part of India's Balance of Payment account. In several developing countries, remittances exceed the receipts from the export of goods and services, and even capital flows such as Foreign Institutional Investment, Foreign Direct Investment, and Official Development Assistance. Remittances are known for their countercyclical nature during the sharp economic downturns, compared to other financial flows that are typically procyclical. Hence, it is known as a possible financing source for economic evolution in emerging economic systems. It is essential to determine the elements that drive remittances, as it may enable us to channelize this inflow to reap its developmental potential efficiently. Several macroeconomic determinants of remittances are well researched in the literature by researchers around the globe. However, not even a single study has been given to the financial development, determinants of remittances in the Indian setting. Therefore, this survey is a humble effort to bridge this gap. We utilize multiple regression and autoregressive distributed lag approach to cointegration which finds that several financial developments and financial openness variables have a substantial impact on remittances in the short run as well as in the long run. In accession to that, we incorporate each dummy variable for the global financial crisis and the concurrent negative oil price shock and negative output shock in the host nations. Remittances are found to be resilient during the crisis period while being adversely affected by the adverse economic shocks in the host nations.
Bankers' knowledge sharing behavior: The role of personality and perceived organizational incentives
Authors: Khan Mohammad Nasar , Zaman Umer
Published: August 2020

Based on five‐factor model (FFM) of personality, this study attempted to empirically test the direct role of the five factors (i.e., extroversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism and openness to experience) and moderating role of perceived organizational incentives (POI) in influencing an individual's knowledge sharing behavior (KSB). Quantitative survey design was employed to collect data from 181 bankers through an adopted questionnaire which was further validated, with face validity and reliability measures. Multiple regression analysis confirmed the positive and significant relationship of all personality dimensions except for neuroticism which was found to be negatively but significantly associated with KSB. The role of POI, which was added to the model with the belief that it strengthens the original relationship, has proved to be statistically insignificant. The study is first of its kind to look into the KSB of bankers using the FFM of personality and reputation of organizational incentives in the context of emerging markets. The study endorses the use of personality assessment management tools while making decisions of recruitment, promotion, and knowledge‐based team selection. The study however warns against the use of POI to inspire individuals to share their knowledge.
Oral processing speed as a key mechanism in the relationship between neurological risk and adaptive functioning in survivors of pediatric brain tumors
Authors: Semmel Eric S. , Quadri Tobiloba R. , King Tricia Z.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Brain tumor (BT) survivors are at risk for difficulties with adaptive functioning (AF). Recent work has associated neurological risk with poorer AF outcomes using the Neurological Predictor Scale (NPS), a quantification of neurological risk factors. Survivors also have poorer attention, processing speed, and working memory, which are all important for AF. The current study examined whether these cognitive constructs explain the relationship between the NPS and AF in survivors.

Methods

Ninety‐five adult BT survivors and 135 healthy controls were recruited from the Atlanta area. The Oral Symbol Digits Modalities test was used to measure processing speed, Digit Span Backward assessed working memory, and Digit Span Forward measured attention. Informants completed the Scales of Independent Behavior (SIB‐R) to measure AF. Group differences and correlations were assessed, and the PROCESS macro for SPSS tested indirect effects.

Results

Survivors were significantly lower on AF and cognitive measures compared with controls. Attention span and processing speed had significant indirect effects in relationship between NPS and AF individually, but processing speed was the only variable with a significant indirect effect when all cognitive variables were included in the model. The NPS and processing speed together account for approximately 39% of variance in AF outcomes.

Conclusions

BT survivors in our sample have lower AF than controls, and processing speed appears to be particularly important in explaining the relationship between neurological risk and AF. In the future, the development of interventions aimed at increasing young adult independence should target both cognitive processing speed and AF skills.
The relationship between motives for making money and life satisfaction: Evidence from 31 cities in China
Authors: Zhao Na , Lai Hua , Zhao Ran
Published: August 2020

Despite the obvious power of the money motive, money has received little attention from psychologists' writing about human motivation. Considering China's transition from its high material deprivation of several decades ago to its current rapidly developing economy, this study aimed to examine how the motives for making money affect life satisfaction through the analysis of a sample of 5,911 participants. The results were somewhat different from previous studies: all the basic motives, self‐integrated motives, and non‐integrated motives for making money were positively correlated with life satisfaction. We argue that, as the tool/drug theory of money states, money gives people immediate reward, like a drug. More precisely, our findings suggest that belongingness and meaningfulness of life mediate the relationship between motives for making money and life satisfaction. Based on the tool/drug theory, money can be exchanged for social status and can be used to pursue social display and social protection. Motives for making money can bring a sense of belongingness and meaningfulness of life in a large pay‐disparity context. Together, these findings extend our understanding of the tool/drug theory and the cultural attributes of money. A longitudinal study is urgently needed in the future to explore the duration of the “drug effect.”
Chain‐growth polycondensation via the substituent effect: Investigation in to the role of initiator and base on the synthesis of poly(N‐octyl benzamide)
Authors: Prehn Frederick C. , Etz Brian D. , Price Daniel , Trainor Amanda , Reese Caleb J. , Vyas Shubham , Boyes Stephen G.
Published: August 2020

A detailed investigation into the role of initiator structure, the presence of an initiator, and basicity of the non‐nucleophilic base in the chain‐growth condensation (CGC) synthesis of poly(N‐octyl benzamide) was conducted. A series of phenyl ester dimethyl amide initiators with different leaving groups were synthesized and used in the CGC preparation of poly(N‐octyl benzamide). Additional polymerizations were conducted without the presence of an initiator and with different non‐nucleophilic bases. Kinetic studies, along with nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and gel‐permeation chromatography, were used to determine progress of the reaction, molecular weights, and molecular weight distributions. The experimental and computational results demonstrated that initiators containing electron‐withdrawing substituent phenyl esters, such as the p‐nitrophenyl ester, and electron‐withdrawing carbonyl character on the parent benzoate produce polymers with controllable molecular weights and narrow molecular weight distributions. Whereas, initiating species that contain electron‐donating character on the benzoate backbone, such as dimethylamino and methyl ester groups, produce polymers that resemble the results from reactions involving no initiators at all, indicating poor polymerization control.
Use of bilevel positive pressure ventilation in patients with bronchiolitis
Authors: Delacroix Elise , Millet Anne , Pin Isabelle , Mortamet Guillaume
Published: August 2020

Rational

This study aims at describing the use of bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) in infants with severe bronchiolitis.

Working Hypothesis

The use of BiPAP in infants with bronchiolitis may be associated with a worst outcome.

Study Design

A single‐center retrospective study performed from October 2013 to April 2016.

Methodology

All infants from 1 day to 6 months of age admitted in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) were included if they had a clinical diagnosis of bronchiolitis and if they required any type of noninvasive ventilation (NIV), including high flow nasal cannula, continuous positive airway pressure and BiPAP at admission in PICU. There was no local written protocol regarding the ventilator management during the study.

Results

Overall, 252 infants (median age 45 (26‐72) days) were included in the study and 110 infants (44%) were supported by BiPAP at admission. More infants were born preterm in the group of patients supported by BiPAP at admission. No complication related to NIV occurred. Patients in the BiPAP group had a longer duration of noninvasive support as well as a longer PICU length of stay. However, hospital length of stay did not differ according to the type of respiratory support at admission.

Conclusion

The use of BiPAP was not associated with endotracheal intubation, however it was associated with increased PICU length of stay and increased duration of NIV.
Process safety education: Selecting the concepts for a process safety program (article 1/2)
Authors: Boogaerts Geert , Toeter Lisanne
Published: August 2020

The content of an Advanced Master's in Safety Engineering lays the foundation for different initiatives regarding commitment to process safety as expressed by the chemical industry in Belgium. Process safety education is a very broad interdisciplinary topic in which various concepts deserve integration and sufficient and balanced academic attention. The definition, selection, and review of these concepts form the backbone described in this research, which considers the selection of relevant concepts based on literature review, analysis of historic and recent incidents that occurred in the process industry, and validation by the chemical major hazard industry. This article describes the methodology of the research and the results of both the literature review and analysis of incidents. The validation phase by the industry will be the subject of subsequent article.
Triangulation of methods using insect cell lines to investigate insecticidal mode‐of‐action
Authors: Mak Michelle , Beattie Karren D , Basta Albert , Randall David , Chen Zhong‐Hua , Spooner‐Hart Robert
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

This study investigated three in vitro models to assist in elucidating possible mode‐of‐action, which could be adopted to evaluate insecticidal activity of complex, unknown, or multi‐constituent formulations. We used a combination of absorbance spectrometry, confocal scanning laser microscopy and microelectrode ion flux estimation (MIFE) to provide insight into potential target sites for insecticides. This study used two insect cell lines and evaluated three pyrethroid insecticides.

RESULTS

We observed that the two cell lines produced distinctly different responses. Drosophila melanogaster D.mel‐S2 cell line was a useful model to monitor ion flux changes, resulting from insecticides with neural toxicity; however, it was less useful to determine some metabolic pathway indicators of toxic stress. Conversely, the Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 cell line produced acute reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to insecticide treatments, but was not highly responsive in electrophysiological experiments. We also showed that the natural, multi‐constituent botanical extract of pyrethrum elicited different Na+, Cl− and Ca2+ ion fluxes than its synthetic, single constituent analogues, α‐cypermethrin and esfenvalerate. These two methods used in combination with absorbance spectrometry measuring cell growth inhibition plus cell mortality assays shed some light on cytotoxic responses in differing model cell lines.

CONCLUSION

This research highlights the importance of using multiple cell types and interdisciplinary methods to provide a better insight into mode of insecticidal action. This is especially pertinent to novel biopesticide discovery, as the underlying mechanisms for toxicity in initial screening processes are likely to be unknown.
Interactions between common vole and winter rape
Authors: Heroldová Marta , Šipoš Jan , Suchomel Josef , Zejda Jan
Published: August 2020

Winter rape is a widespread crop in Europe that provides the common vole with a suitable diet and cover from autumn to late spring (approximately 8 months). This review shows the following:

That common vole populations reach a high density in winter rape. Widespread rape fields (large size) provide better support for common vole populations compared to winter cereals.

That a high‐quality supply from winter rape enables the common vole to extend its reproductive season and successfully overwinter.

That the diet of the common vole primarily comprises the green vegetative parts of winter rape. The percentage of weed species in the diet depends on weed coverage in the crop.

That the impact of the common vole on winter rape correlates with vole density.

That no‐tillage farming enhances common vole infestation of winter rape fields, particularly in spring, and is related to damage to adjacent crops.

© 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of an unmanned aerial vehicle as a new method of pesticide application for almond crop protection
Authors: Li Xuan , Giles Durham Ken , Niederholzer Franz J , Andaloro John T , Lang Edward B , Watson Lawrence J
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), a new method of application to deliver pesticides, is rapidly being adopted for commercial use in crop protection in East Asia with increasing worldwide interest. Pest control in mature almond orchards with dense foliar canopies presents greater coverage challenges than field crops and smaller orchard or vineyard crops. We investigated the use of an electric hexacopter to provide acceptable spray deposition and canopy penetration to be considered credible for use in an almond pest control program.

RESULTS

The performance of the aerial and ground methods at different spray volumes were compared by analyzing spray deposition on water sensitive papers, insecticide residues on filter papers and residues on whole unhulled almonds at three canopy elevations. Overall residue levels of chlorantraniliprole insecticide on whole unhulled almonds across all pooled canopy strata were similar between UAV applied at 46.8 L/ha and 93.5 L/ha and the comparative air blast sprayer treatments applied at 935 L/ha. However, significant interactions between canopy elevation and spray method showed distinct residue patterns between the two application methods. Penetration and spray deposition at the lower canopy were observed and validated for the UAV application. Pest efficacy was evaluated by measuring nut damage at harvest.

CONCLUSION

This study presents promising data that support the potential innovative integration of UAV's into crop protection programs for large canopy crops such as almonds and may guide future research for developing relevant label recommendations.
Anisotropy and Mechanistic Elucidation of Wet‐Chemical Gallium Nitride Etching at the Atomic Level
Authors: Tautz Markus , Weimar Andreas , Graßl Christian , Welzel Martin , Díaz Díaz David
Published: August 2020

Etching of gallium nitride is a key step in the production of blue and white light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). Etching in aqueous KOH solution creates a rough surface on the LED chip to facilitate outcoupling of the photons generated, drastically increasing the resulting LED's efficiency. Compared with the common technique of dry etching, wet‐chemical etching using aqueous KOH solution has significant advantages, e.g., lower complexity and cost and less remaining surface damage. An in‐depth analysis of the molecular etch reaction by characterization of the reaction products is reported. The mechanism identified explains the cause of anisotropic etching, which leads to the formation of hexagonal pyramids. The concept of hydroxide repulsion by protruding NH and NH2 groups established in the literature is adapted and further developed. The susceptibility of several polar, semipolar, and nonpolar crystal facets may also be explained, as well as the commonly observed increase in average pyramid size over etch time.
Room‐Temperature Infrared Photoresponse from Ion Beam–Hyperdoped Silicon
Authors: Wang Mao , Berencén Yonder
Published: August 2020

Room‐temperature broadband infrared photoresponse in Si is of great interest for the development of on‐chip complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS)‐compatible photonic platforms. One effective approach to extend the room‐temperature photoresponse of Si to the mid‐infrared range is the so‐called hyperdoping. This consists of introducing deep‐level impurities into Si to form an intermediate band within its bandgap enabling a strong intermediate band–mediated infrared photoresponse. Typically, impurity concentrations in excess of the equilibrium solubility limit can be introduced into the Si host either by pulsed laser melting of Si with a gas‐phase impurity precursor, by pulsed laser mixing of a thin‐film layer of impurities atop the Si surface, or by ion implantation followed by a subsecond annealing step. In this review, a conspectus of the current status of room‐temperature infrared photoresponse in hyperdoped Si by ion implantation followed by nanosecond‐pulsed laser annealing is provided. The possibilities of achieving room‐temperature broadband infrared photoresponse in ion beam–hyperdoped Si with different deep‐level impurities are discussed in terms of material fabrication and device performance. The thermal stability of hyperdoped Si with deep‐level impurities is addressed with special emphasis on the structural and the optoelectronic material properties. The future perspectives on achieving room‐temperature Si‐based broadband infrared photodetectors are outlined.
Growth and Fabrication of Quasivertical Current Aperture Vertical Electron Transistor Structures
Authors: Doering Philipp , Driad Rachid , Leone Stefano , Mueller Stefan , Waltereit Patrick , Kirste Lutz , Polyakov Vladimir , Mikulla Michael , Ambacher Oliver
Published: August 2020

The current aperture vertical electron transistor (CAVET) combines the high carrier mobility of the AlGaN/GaN heterostructure with the better electric field distribution of the vertical topology, allowing for higher power densities if compared with lateral high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs). The formation of a current blocking layer (CBL), without degenerating the aperture region and the subsequently overgrown AlGaN/GaN heterostructure is the key building block of such devices. Herein, a comparison of GaN:Mg nonplanar selective area growth (SAG) and Mg‐ion implantation is carried out primarily focusing on structural evolution, Mg distribution, and 2D electron gas (2DEG) performance. The epitaxial growth process in SAG is correlated to local growth increase and ridge development, and then optimized regarding mesa filling. AlGaN/GaN regrowth is analyzed regarding structural evolution after overgrowth and Mg distribution into the GaN channel. Considerably lower Mg‐distribution into subsequently grown layers is detected for implanted samples in agreement with the electrical performance of the overgrown AlGaN/GaN heterostructures. A GaN‐on‐Si quasivertical CAVET structure with an Mg‐implanted CBL and 250 nm channel thickness is fabricated. High surface quality and proper 2DEG performance demonstrate the potential use of GaN‐on‐Si CAVET's using Mg implantation for CBL fabrication.
Feature selection methods for root‐cause analysis among top‐level product attributes
Authors: Detzner Alexander , Eigner Martin
Published: August 2020

Manufacturing companies not only strive to deliver flawless products but also monitor product failures in the field to identify potential quality issues. When product failures occur, quality engineers must identify the root cause to improve any affected product and process. This root‐cause analysis can be supported by feature selection methods that identify relevant product attributes, such as manufacturing dates with an increased number of product failures.

In this paper, we present different methods for feature selection and evaluate their ability to identify relevant product attributes in a root‐cause analysis. First, we compile a list of feature selection methods. Then, we summarize the properties of product attributes in warranty case data and discuss these properties regarding the challenges they pose for machine learning algorithms. Next, we simulate datasets of warranty cases, which emulate these product properties. Finally, we compare the feature selection methods based on these simulated datasets. In the end, the univariate filter information gain is determined to be a suitable method for a wide range of applications.

The comparison based on simulated data provides a more general result than other publications, which only focus on a single use case. Due to the generic nature of the simulated datasets, the results can be applied to various root‐cause analysis processes in different quality management applications and provide a guideline for readers who wish to explore machine learning methods for their analysis of quality data.
Improved photovoltaic performance of phosphonic acid‐based sensitized solar cells via an electron‐withdrawing moiety: A density of functional theory study
Authors: Fadili Driss , Fahim Zakaria Mohyi Eddine , Bouzzine Si Mohamed , Hamidi Mohamed
Published: August 2020

In this study, the photovoltaic properties and the effects of modifying phosphonic acid‐based dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) via an electron‐withdrawing moiety were theoretically investigated using density functional theory methodology. According to the results, the inclusion of the CC and the electron‐withdrawing CN moieties exhibits a decrease in the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO)‐lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) gap and a redshift in the absorption spectra. The photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) for the T4BTD‐A dye was estimated to be about 6.57% under the standard AM 1.5G solar radiation, which is in excellent agreement with its measured value of 6.40%, suggesting that the calculation scheme is consistent. In addition, the predicted PCE value after elongation of T4BTD‐A by CC and cyanure (CN) has increased to 7.11% and (7.82%, 8.09%), respectively. The addition of CN electron‐withdrawing moiety also enhances the PCE of the studied dyes, while the position of CN moiety has a slight effect on the PCE of the studied dyes. Finally, the calculation suggests that the CCCN1 and CCCN2 are good candidates as efficient sensitizers for DSSC applications.
Topological Sound Pumping of Zero‐Dimensional Bound States
Authors: Gao Penglin , Christensen Johan
Published: August 2020

Topological phases have spurred unprecedented abilities for sound, light, and matter engineering and recent progress has shown how waves not only confine at the interfaces between topologically distinct insulators, but in the form of zero‐dimensional non‐propagating states bound to defects or corners. Majorana‐like bound states have recently been observed in man‐made Kekulé textured lattices. It is shown here how the acoustic version of the associated Jackiw–Rossi vortex embodies a topological pumping process, in which the spectral flow of corner states adiabatically merge with the said Majorana‐like state. Moreover, it is argued how the chirality of the Kekulé vortex additionally maps into a 2D quantum‐Hall system comprising spatially separated sonic hotspots. It is foreseen that the findings should provide novel exotic tools to enable contemporary control over sound.
Benchmark for Synthesized Diamond Sensors Based on Isotopically Engineered Nitrogen‐Vacancy Spin Ensembles for Magnetometry Applications
Authors: Osterkamp Christian , Balasubramanian Priyadharshini , Wolff Gerhard , Teraji Tokuyuki , Nesladek Milos , Jelezko Fedor
Published: August 2020

Nitrogen‐vacancy (NV) center ensemble in synthetic diamond is a promising and emerging platform for quantum sensing technologies. Realization of such a solid‐state based quantum sensor is widely studied and requires reproducible manufacturing of NV centers with controlled spin properties, including the spin bath environment within the diamond crystal. Here, a non‐invasive method is reported to benchmark NV ensembles regarding their suitability as ultra‐sensitive magnetic field sensors. Imaging and electron spin resonance techniques are presented to determine operating figures and precisely define the optimal material for NV‐driven diamond engineering. The functionality of the methods is manifested on examples of chemical vapor deposition synthesized diamond layers containing preferentially aligned, isotopically controlled 15NV center ensembles. Quantification of the limiting 15N P1 spin bath, in an otherwise 12C enriched environment, and the reduction of its influence by applying dynamical decoupling protocols, complete the suggested set of criteria for the analysis of NV ensemble with potential use as magnetometers.
Aom2S: A new web‐based application for DNA/RNA tandem mass spectrometry data interpretation
Authors: Ortiz Daniel , Gasilova Natalia , Sepulveda Francisco , Patiny Luc , Dyson Paul J. , Menin Laure
Published: August 2020

Rationale

The Analysis of Oligonucleotide Modifications from Mass Spectra (Aom2S) was created to support the analysis of oligonucleotide mass spectra. This application complements the existing software tools by providing a comprehensive analysis of oligonucleotide fragments from high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HR‐MS/MS) data in a flexible and user‐friendly manner, directly accessible through a web browser without any need for installation.

Methods

MS measurements of aminoC6‐DNA and inosine‐RNA were performed using an LTQ Orbitrap FT‐MS instrument. The obtained data were analyzed by our newly developed open‐source package Aom2S accessible from thems.epfl.chweb page or directly athttps://mstools.epfl.ch/am2s/to demonstrate the various functionalities of this tool, notably the possibility to identify different product ions from a nucleotide sequence with any fixed/variable modification by matching theoretical isotopic patterns to any experimental mass spectra with similarity scores ranking.

Results

A detailed description of the Aom2S tool with its user‐friendly interface is exemplified using HR‐MS/MS data of modified DNA and RNA oligonucleotides. Explanations of analysis parameters and tool workflow, as well as multiple options for viewing and exporting the results, are provided. Product ion assignment and modification localization can be achieved in seconds, and results can be exported as tables, matched mass spectra, and fragmentation maps.

Conclusions

A new open source tool (Aom2S) for the analysis of HR‐MS/MS data for modified DNA and RNA oligonucleotides is described. Aom2S is fast, highly flexible, and versatile, allowing automatic precursor and product ion assignment in a comprehensive manner, including internal fragments and variable modification localization, with clear graphical representation of the results.
Learning curve analysis of robotic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair
Authors: Aghayeva Afag , Aytac Erman , Dinc Taha , Mutlu Arda Ulas , Sahin Inci , Bilgin Ismail Ahmet , Hamzaoglu Ismail , Baca Bilgi
Published: August 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the learning curve (LC) for inguinal hernia repair with robotic transabdominal preperitoneal (R‐TAPP) approach.

Methods

Between April 2016 and October 2019, patients who underwent R‐TAPP were retrieved. Patient demographics, operative variables and postoperative outcomes were assessed. The moving average method and cumulative sum of operation times (OT) were used to evaluate the LC. The surgeon (BB) in this study had completed his laparoscopic (Lap) TAPP experience.

Results

There were 50 (two females) consecutive patients (mean age was 51.7 ± 16.9 years). The first phase (learning phase) included initial 35 operations. The second phase included the next 15 operations. It was observed that, with increasing experience, a statistically significant shortening in the average OT by about 25 min was achieved (p = 0.041).

Conclusion

The LC phase for R‐TAPP, for surgeon with previous experience in Lap TAPP, seems to be very quick without compromising the operative morbidity.
Robotic‐assisted laparoscopic tubal anastomosis: Single institution analysis
Authors: Ghomi Ali , Nolan William , Rodgers Bruce
Published: August 2020

Background

Tubal anastomosis has similar pregnancy rates regardless of approach. Historically, robotic anastomosis has been associated with increased cost and operative time. We sought to perform a contemporary study of these metrics.

Methods

One hundred and nine patients were identified who underwent robotic‐assisted laparoscopic tubal anastomosis. Retrospective analysis of medical records was performed. Phone survey was conducted.

Results

The mean operative time decreased from 140.7 ± 27.0 min in 2013 to 60.0 ± 9.1 min in 2018, with significant downward trend (p < 0.001). The mean cost was $7153.46 ± $1484.41. The pregnancy rate was 59% (35/59), and tubal patency rate was 81% (42/52). Seventy‐two percent of patients under 37 years became pregnant.

Conclusions

There is significant improvement in operative time of robotic‐assisted tubal anastomosis with surgical experience. Robotic tubal anastomosis outperformed historical metrics of laparoscopy and laparotomy with regard to operative time and cost in this series.
Design of event‐triggered networked control systems via specific triggering quantizer
Authors: Chen Ziran , Zhang Baoyong , Li Yongmin , Ma Qian , Zhang Yijun
Published: August 2020

Based on a new triggering quantizer, this article studies the design of networked control systems with limited bandwidth. The design algorithm is described by the program flow diagram, which implements the functions of sampling, quantization and triggering strategy. By using a specific random variable, the effects of networked issues are captured, so as to process the design procedure. Because of the nonlinearities induced by networked issues, new methods are developed to analyze the system stability. Specifically, two design methods are proposed in order to simplify the analysis and improve the performance. Finally, simulation examples are presented to verify the proposed methods.
Target recognition for satellite communication by employing higher‐order statistics
Authors: Wu Xiaopo , Fang Nian , Shi Yangming , Fu Yifeng , Xie Kai
Published: August 2020

The target recognition for satellite communication (satcom) is generally regarded as the cutting edge of electronic countermeasure research. This work is dedicated to the investigation on the theory and experiment of satellite communication target recognition on the basis of systematical analysis of satcom signal emission, propagation, and reception. The authors elaborate on the fingerprint analysis, feature extraction, and identification of satcom emitters by utilizing the nonlinearities of high‐power microwave vacuum amplifier (HPA). The mechanism of the external subtle features of satcom signal will be also discussed in detail. To acquire the qualified features that precisely represent the individual emitter, higher‐order statistics technique is introduced to implement the feature extraction, and the supervised probabilistic neural network classifier is established to execute the recognition of testing satcom samples. In testing phase, there are a total of 4000 sampling signals with BPSK modulation and variable carrier to noise ratio (CNR) originated by eight types of satcom transmitters setting for the experiment to verify the authors' viewpoints. Thanks to the fine training data set and subsequent well‐extracted features, the PNN classifier had not fail us and finally achieved satisfactory accuracy of more than 94% at CNR level of 10 dB. Those expected results will help to enhance the ability of battlefield surveillance and situational awareness that is of paramount importance in academic research and military application.