bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boundary element analysis of transversely isotropic bi‐material halfspaces with inclined planes of isotropy and interfaces
Authors: Xiao Sha , Yue Zhongqi Quentin , Xiao Hongtian
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a single‐region boundary element method (BEM) is presented for the analysis of transversely isotropic bi‐material halfspaces with arbitrarily inclined planes of isotropy and material interfaces. The proposed BEM uses the fundamental solution of a transversely isotropic bi‐material fullspace and five boundary element techniques. Infinite boundary elements are introduced to consider the far‐fields of a transversely isotropic bi‐material halfspace. The effective integration methods are proposed for dealing with various integrals in the discretized boundary integral equation. The stresses at internal points are obtained using the coordinate transformation of kernel functions, and the stresses on the boundary surface are calculated using an improved traction recovered method. Numerical verifications of displacements and stresses for a benchmark problem are conducted, and excellent agreement with previously published results is obtained. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the influence of non‐horizontal or horizontal planes of isotropy in bi‐material halfspaces on the displacements and stresses induced by the tractions on the horizontal boundary surface. Results reveal that the elastic fields vary clearly with the dip angle of the isotropic plane and the stresses across the bi‐material interface are closely related to the ratios of the elastic parameters of the bi‐material.
Formulation and implementation of strain rate‐dependent fracture toughness in context of the phase‐field method
Authors: Yin Bo , Steinke Christian , Kaliske Michael
Published: August 2019

The phase‐field approach is a promising technique for the realistic simulation of brittle fracture processes, both in quasi‐static and transient analysis. Considering fast loading, experimental evidence indicates a strong relationship between the rate of strain and the material's resistance against fracture, which can be considered by a dynamic increase factor for the strength of the material. The paper at hand presents a novel approach within the framework of phase‐field models for brittle fracture. A rate‐dependent fracture toughness is formulated as a function of the rate of crack driving strain components, which results in higher strength for faster loading. Beside the increased amount of energy necessary to evolve a crack at a high strain rate loading situation, the model incorporates quasi‐viscous stress‐type quantities that are not directly related to the formation of the crack and exist only in the phase‐field transition zone between broken and sound material. The governing strong form equations for a transient simulation are derived and the relevant information for an implementation of the model into a finite element code is outlined in detail. The performance of the model is demonstrated for static and dynamic benchmark simulations and for a comparison to experimental findings.
Effectiveness of a Community‐Based Weight Management Program for Patients Taking Antidepressants and/or Antipsychotics
Authors: Wharton Sean , Kuk Jennifer L. , Petrova Lana , Rye Peter I. , Taylor Valerie H. , Christensen Rebecca A.G.
Published: August 2019

Objective

This study aimed to compare weight loss (WL) outcomes for patients taking antidepressants and/or antipsychotics with those not taking psychiatric medication.

Methods

A total of 17,519 adults enrolled in a lifestyle WL intervention at the Wharton Medical Clinics in Ontario, Canada, were analyzed. Sex‐stratified multivariable linear regression analysis was used to examine the association of taking antidepressants, antipsychotics, both, or neither with WL when adjusting for age, initial weight, and treatment time.

Results

Twenty‐three percent of patients were taking at least one psychiatric medication. Patients lost a significant amount of weight (P < 0.0001) regardless of psychiatric medication use. Women taking psychiatric medications lost a similar amount of weight as women who were not (P > 0.05). Conversely, men taking antidepressants lost only slightly less weight than men taking both classes or neither class of psychiatric medication (3.2 ± 0.3 kg vs. 5.6 ± 0.9 kg and 4.3 ± 0.1 kg; P < 0.05). However, taking psychiatric medications that cause weight gain was associated with similar significant decreases in weight as taking medications that are weight neutral or associated with WL for both sexes (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Results of this study suggest that those who participate in a weight management program can lose significant amounts of weight regardless of psychiatric medication use.
Influence of nonrubber components on properties of unvulcanized natural rubber
Authors: Nun‐anan Phattarawadee , Wisunthorn Suwaluk , Pichaiyut Skulrat , Nathaworn Chatchamon Daengkanit , Nakason Charoen
Published: August 2019

Low‐protein natural rubber (LPNR) and acetone‐extracted natural rubber (AENR) were prepared in solid form by alkaline treatment and acetone extraction to remove proteins and lipids. The content of proteins and lipids along with gel content were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and size exclusion chromatography with multiangle light scattering (SEC‐MALS) analysis. It was found that natural rubber (NR) treatment by alkaline hydrolysis or acetone extraction decreased proteins or lipids along with gel content. Also, having less proteins and lipids changed the network structure from macroaggregates to microaggregates. This resulted in inferior plasticity and poor mechanical, rheological, and dynamic properties. Furthermore, decreased strain‐induced crystallization and storage hardening were confirmed by temperature scanning stress relaxation (TSSR), after removal of proteins and lipids. Therefore, protein and lipid contents together with gel content play essential roles in controlling various properties of unvulcanized NR.
Effect of surface treatments on interfacial properties of natural intralaminar hybrid composites
Authors: de Araujo Alves Lima Rosemere , Kawasaki Cavalcanti Daniel , de Souza e Silva Neto Jorge , Meneses da Costa Hector , Banea Mariana Doina
Published: August 2019

The objective of this work was to analyze the influence of the alkalization and alkalization + silanization (mixed) treatments on the interfacial adhesion and mechanical properties of intralaminar hybrid composites (jute + sisal, jute + curauá, jute + ramie, and jute + glass fiber). Single‐fiber tensile tests, fragmentation, and short beam tests were performed. Finally, a SEM analysis was used to study the influence of surface chemical treatments on the morphology of the natural fibers used. SEM images showed that the chemical treatments altered the morphology of the natural fibers. The chemical treatments improved the tensile strength of the fibers studied. It was found that the alkaline treatment is the best suited for jute, ramie, and curauá fibers, while the sisal fiber presented the best results after the mixed treatment. The superficial chemical treatments also affect the interfacial/interlaminar adhesion of the hybrid composites studied here. The best superficial treatments for each type of hybrid composite were: alkaline treatment for jute + ramie and jute + sisal, while for jute + curauá the best results were obtained for the untreated specimens.
Continuous‐wave plasma‐generated electric field in 3D collagen gel during cold atmospheric plasma treatment
Authors: Zolotukhin Denis B. , Lin Li , Gjika Eda , Keidar Michael
Published: August 2019

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) devices based on a plasma jet with helium flow are actively used nowadays in the studies of cancer treatment. In addition to well‐known factors produced by CAP devices (reactive chemical species, UV radiation, heat) that can reduce the viability of cancer cells, the effect of alternating continuous‐wave nonthermal electromagnetic fields generated by a plasma source inside the tissue remains unclear. In this article, we measured the values and frequency composition of the continuous‐wave electric field induced inside the model of a living tissue—a three‐dimensional artificial tissue composed of bovine type I collagen gel—during its irradiation with a helium plasma jet using the set of probes immersed into the gel. It was found that the electric field in artificial tissue has strong direct current (DC) with the main discharge frequency components, and at least up to four harmonics of the discharge frequency. The e‐field absolute values in artificial tissue during plasma treatment were within 300–30,000 V/m, which is significantly lower than the estimated cell membrane field of about ~107 V/m. The absolute value of the e‐field DC component nonmonotonically depends on discharge frequency with the optimal frequency range of 14–16 kHz dependent on the thickness of the artificial tissue.
Debris flows triggered from melt of seasonal snow and ice within the active layer in the semi‐arid Andes
Authors: Vergara Dal Pont Iván , Moreiras Stella Maris , Santibañez Ossa Fernanda , Araneo Diego , Ferrando Francisco
Published: August 2019

Debris flows triggered from rapid melt of seasonal snow, and/or ice within the active layer have not been studied in periglacial areas of the semi‐arid Andes. Therefore, through a representative watershed we investigated the thermo‐radiative characteristics, possible water sources, and current and future frequency of these debris flows. Information was collected on three temporal clusters of debris flows during which no rains or major earthquakes occurred. The thermo‐radiative conditions of each cluster were analyzed through nearby stations that cover the entire watershed altitudinal range. Snow cover was calculated using the closest satellite images before and after each cluster in order to evaluate the potential contribution of snowmelt for each. The frequency of melting‐driven debris flows, for the remainder of the 21st century, was evaluated by calculating the trends of climatic variables that control them. The results indicate that debris flows show several patterns such as: a lag of several hours between the warmest hours of the day and their triggering, occurrence in clusters of 3–5 days during the early summer, and an accelerated increase in temperature over the days previous to the beginning of the clusters. In addition, it was inferred that the water of debris flows can come from the melt of seasonal snow as well as of shallow ice within the active layer. Lastly, due to a positive trend of maximum air temperature of the warmest trimester and high inter‐annual variability of precipitation, a frequency increase is likely, followed by a possible decrease due to the negative and positive trends of precipitation and mean air temperature, respectively.
Visible Light Photocatalytic Functional TiO2/PVDF Nanofibers for Dye Pollutant Degradation
Authors: Lou Lihua , Wang Jilong , Lee Yong Joon , Ramkumar Seshadri S.
Published: August 2019

The photodegradation of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)/titanium oxide (TiO2) nanofibers under visible light is described, something that has not been previously reported in the literature. Visible light photocatalytic electrospun PVDF/TiO2 nanofiber webs with anatase TiO2 concentration varying from 0% to 20% (0%, 1%, 3%, 5%, 10%, and 20%) are produced, and their ability to degrade a toxic pollutant, Rhodamine B (RhB), is studied. Photodegradation study using UV–vis spectroscopy on PVDF/TiO2 nanofiber webs (with TiO2 concentration of 20%) shows that 80% of RhB is degraded within 6 h at the wavelength of 546 nm, which clearly falls within the visible spectra. The color of RhB solvent catalyzed by PVDF/TiO2 nanofiber webs gradually changes from red to orange, then to yellow, further to light yellow till colorless, which suggests the complete photodegradation of RhB under visible light. To estimate the rate of photodegradation, the reaction constant k is calculated. Based on the k value, PVDF/TiO2 nanofiber webs with 20% TiO2 concentration show the highest degradation rate compared to other PVDF/TiO2 nanofiber webs and pure TiO2 nanoparticles. This study proves the viability of TiO2‐based nanofibers to have catalytic capabilities under low‐energy visible light.
Halides‐Assisted Low‐Temperature Synthesis of Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanosheets
Authors: Wang Haixu , Wang Ning , Cheng Tianshu , Wan Xuejuan , Sun Rong , Wong Ching‐Ping
Published: August 2019

Hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets (hBNNS) have various promising applications in dielectric and thermal conductive materials. However, in the bottom‐up method, well‐crystallized hBNNS could only be attained at very high temperatures. In this paper, a facile halide‐assisted hydrothermal assembly (HAHTA) method for the low‐temperature synthesis of well‐crystallized hBNNS is prepared. In HAHTA, the lateral growth of hBNNS is enhanced by the halide addition in the precursor, and the dimension reaches several micrometers. In addition, the obtained hBNNS enhance the oxidization resistance of vanadium dioxide (VO2) though the formation of a VO2/hBN composite, which is meaningful in facilitating the potential applications of VO2 as smart phase transition materials.
Re‐treatment with radium‐223: 2‐year follow‐up from an international, open‐label, phase 1/2 study in patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer and bone metastases
Authors: Sartor Oliver , Heinrich Daniel , Mariados Neil , Méndez Vidal Maria José , Keizman Daniel , Thellenberg Karlsson Camilla , Peer Avivit , Procopio Giuseppe , Frank Stephen J. , Pulkkanen Kalevi , Rosenbaum Eli , Severi Stefano , Trigo José , Trandafir Lucia , Wagner Volker , Li Rui , Nordquist Luke T.
Published: August 2019

Background

Radium‐223 dichloride (radium‐223) is approved for patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), symptomatic bone metastases, and no visceral disease using a dosing regimen of 6 injections (55 kBq/kg intravenously; 1 injection every 4 weeks). Early results from international, open‐label, phase 1/2 study NCT01934790 showed that re‐treatment with radium‐223 was well tolerated with favorable effects on disease progression. Here we report safety and efficacy findings from 2‐year follow‐up of the radium‐223 re‐treatment study.

Methods

Patients with CRPC and bone metastases who completed 6 initial radium‐223 injections with no disease progression in bone and later progressed were eligible for radium‐223 re‐treatment (up to 6 additional radium‐223 injections), provided that hematologic parameters were adequate and chemotherapy had not been administered after the initial course of radium‐223. Concomitant cytotoxic agents were not allowed during re‐treatment but were allowed at the investigator's discretion during follow‐up; other concomitant agents for prostate cancer (including abiraterone acetate or enzalutamide) were allowed at investigator's discretion. The primary objective was safety. Exploratory objectives included time to radiographic bone progression, radiographic progression‐free survival (rPFS), time to total alkaline phosphatase (tALP), and prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) progression, overall survival (OS), time to first symptomatic skeletal event (SSE), and SSE‐free survival, all calculated from re‐treatment start. Evaluation of safety and exploratory efficacy objectives included active 2‐year follow‐up. Safety results from active follow‐up and updated efficacy are reported.

Results

Overall, 44 patients were re‐treated with radium‐223; 29 (66%) completed all 6 injections, and 34 (77%) entered 2‐year active follow‐up, during which no new safety concerns and no serious drug‐related adverse events were noted. rPFS events (progression or death) occurred in 19 (43%) of 44 patients; median rPFS was 9.9 months. Radiographic bone progression occurred in 5 (11%) of 44 patients. Median OS was 24.4 months. Median times to first SSE and SSE‐free survival were 16.7 and 12.8 months, respectively. Median time to tALP progression was not reached; median time to PSA progression was 2.2 months.

Conclusions

Re‐treatment with radium‐223 in this selected patient population was well tolerated, led to minimal hematologic toxicity, and provided continued disease control in bone at 2‐year follow‐up.
Effect of hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions on the potency of ß‐alanine analogs of G‐protein coupled glucagon receptor inhibitors
Authors: Venugopal Pushyaraga P. , Das Bratin K. , Soorya E. , Chakraborty Debashree
Published: August 2019

G‐protein coupled glucagon receptors (GCGRs) play an important role in glucose homeostasis and pathophysiology of Type‐II Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). The allosteric pocket located at the trans‐membrane domain of GCGR consists of hydrophobic (TM5) and hydrophilic (TM7) units. Hydrophobic interactions with the amino acid residues present at TM5, found to facilitate the favorable orientation of antagonist at GCGR allosteric pocket. A statistically robust and highly predictive 3D‐QSAR model was developed using 58 β‐alanine based GCGR antagonists with significant variation in structure and potency profile. The correlation coefficient (R2) and cross‐validation coefficient (Q2) of the developed model were found to be 0.9981 and 0.8253, respectively at the PLS factor of 8. The analysis of the favorable and unfavorable contribution of different structural features on the glucagon receptor antagonists was done by 3D‐QSAR contour plots. Hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions are found to be main dominating non‐bonding interactions in docking studies. Presence of highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) in the polar part and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) in the hydrophobic part of antagonists leads to favorable protein‐ligand interactions. Molecular mechanics/generalized born surface area (MM/GBSA) calculations showed that van der Waals and nonpolar solvation energy terms are crucial components for thermodynamically stable binding of the inhibitors. The binding free energy of highly potent compound was found to be −63.475 kcal/mol; whereas the least active compound exhibited binding energy of −41.097 kcal/mol. Further, five 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation (MD) simulations were done to confirm the stability of the inhibitor‐receptor complex. Outcomes of the present study can serve as the basis for designing improved GCGR antagonists.
Screening barrier plants to reduce crop attack by sweet potato weevil (Cylas formicarius)
Authors: Dada Taiwo E , Liu Jian , Johnson Anne C , Rehman Mudassir , Gurr Geoff M
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Sweet potato weevil, Cylas formicarius (Fabricius) attacks stems and storage roots of sweet potato, Ipomoea batatas, and is a major pest of this globally significant crop. To minimize the immigration of weevils into sweet potato fields from nearby donor habitat, we assessed scope for a barrier plant approach. Here, we report a novel, two‐stage, multiple choice olfactometer method to screen candidate barrier plant species and a field study of the effects of shortlisted barrier plants of weevil movement and plant damage.

RESULTS

Initial work established that a combination of sweet potato foliage and storage root was significantly more attractive to adult C. formicarius than either tissue alone in the distal chamber of choice arms. Among 15 candidate barrier plant species in intermediate chambers in arms, spring onion, oregano, chilli, basil, sweetcorn, fennel, lime mint and lemongrass significantly reduced passage of C. formicarius. Of these, sweetcorn and lime mint significantly reduced the numbers of oviposition holes in sweet potato storage roots. A field study showed that basil and chives were effective barrier plants for reducing weevil damage to sweet potato storage roots.

CONCLUSION

Our method has utility for screening additional candidate plants, and suggests that weevil dispersal and subsequent oviposition are affected by passage through some plants, suggesting scope for barrier plants to contribute to the management of this major pest. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Phosphorus mononitride: A difficult case for theory
Authors: Kupka Teobald , Leszczyńska Małgorzata , Ejsmont Krzysztof , Mnich Adrianna , Broda Małgorzata , Thangavel Karthick , Kaminský Jakub
Published: August 2019

Phosphorus nitride (PN) is the simplest molecule formed solely by phosphorus and nitrogen. It represents an interesting model for materials, where phosphorus is directly attached to nitrogen. Nevertheless, both theoretical and experimental studies often provide an incomplete picture on the structural, electronic, and spectral properties of PN. Theoretical predictions often suffer from insufficient level of theory, incomplete basis set, or from neglecting several effects, for example, zero‐point vibrational correction (ZPVC). Therefore, we performed an extensive benchmark study on structural, electronic, and spectral properties of PN at the Hartree‐Fock, density functional theory (DFT), or even the coupled‐cluster levels. We paid special attention to the basis set effect. We tested three variants of Dunning's aug‐cc‐pVXZ basis sets with the size from double‐ζ to sextuple‐ζ, as well as Jensen's aug‐pc‐n, aug‐pcJ‐n, and aug‐pcSseg‐n basis sets, where n = 1‐4. Obtained energetics, PN distance, dipole moment, vibrational frequencies, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) parameters were extrapolated to the complete basis set limit (CBS) using three‐ or two‐parameter formulas. The31P NMR shieldings estimated with the aug‐cc‐pVXZ and aug‐cc‐pV(X + d)Z basis sets strongly depend on the basis set size providing scattered convergence patterns toward CBS. The Hartree‐Fock self‐consistent field (HF‐SCF) NMR parameters evinced similar behavior as the coupled‐cluster data. The only smooth convergence was achieved using the aug‐cc‐pCVXZ basis sets that include core‐valence effects. The KT3 functional underestimated the phosphorus CBS shieldings by about 12 ppm compared to coupled cluster with singles and doubles (CCSD) (T). Nevertheless, KT3 unambiguously surpasses the HF‐SCF and CCSD levels that provide31P shieldings that are lower by about 150 ppm and 24 ppm compared to CCSD(T). The convergence of nitrogen shieldings was regular for all basis set hierarchies and all theoretical methods. Relativistic and vibrational effects on selected properties were also discussed.
Adaptive diagnosis and compensation for hypersonic flight vehicle with multisensor faults
Authors: Chen Fuyang , Gong Jingxiu , Li Yuqing
Published: August 2019

This study proposes an improved adaptive fault diagnosis and compensation scheme for multisensor faults of hypersonic flight vehicles (HFVs). The faults are detected and isolated through a series of sensor output residuals and thresholds that consider observation error and disturbances. Via an adaptive augmented observer, the faults are estimated accurately and a time‐varying disturbance is handled by an additional differential part. Sensor faults are compensated on the basis of estimation results, and disturbances are considered in the fault‐tolerant control (FTC) design, thereby improving the tracking accuracy of the altitude and velocity and robustness with respect to external disturbances for HFVs. The stability of diagnosis and FTC is analyzed by Lyapunov theory. Numerical simulation results explain the validity of the proposed diagnosis and compensation methods.
Sequentially Site‐Specific Delivery of Apoptotic Protein and Tumor‐Suppressor Gene for Combination Cancer Therapy
Authors: Chen Xiaojie , Zhu Qiuwen , Xu Xiao , Shen Shiyang , Zhang Ying , Mo Ran
Published: August 2019

Nanocarrier‐mediated codelivery of multiple anticancer drugs is a potential strategy for enhanced efficacy of combination cancer treatment by unifying differential pharmacokinetic properties and maintaining an optimal ratio of drug cargoes. However, a programmable codelivery system is highly desired to deliver different therapeutics to their specific sites of action to pursue maximized combinational effect. Herein a liposome‐based nanoassembly (p53/C‐rNC/L‐FA) is developed for intracellular site‐specific delivery of an apoptotic protein cytochrome c (CytoC) and a plasmid DNA encoding tumor‐suppressing p53 protein (p53 DNA). p53/C‐rNC/L‐FA consists of an acid‐activated fusogenic liposomal membrane shell modified with folic acid (L‐FA) and a DNA/protein complex core assembled by the p53 DNA, protamine and CytoC‐encapsulated redox‐responsive nanocapsule (C‐rNC). Intratumoral and intraendosomal acidities promote membrane fusion between liposome and biomembrane, resulting in release of the encapsulated p53/C‐rNC complex into the cytoplasm. The cytoplasmic reduction causes degradation of C‐rNC with release of CytoC that induces tumor cell apoptosis. The p53 DNA is transported into the nucleus by the aid of the cationic protamine and thus generates expression of the p53 protein that enhances apoptosis combined with CytoC. p53/C‐rNC/L‐FA is demonstrated to significantly induce tumor cell apoptosis and inhibit tumor growth in the orthotopic breast tumor mouse model.
Size‐Dependent Phase Transformation of Noble Metal Nanomaterials
Authors: Saleem Faisal , Cui Xiaoya , Zhang Zhicheng , Liu Zhongqiang , Dong Jichen , Chen Bo , Chen Ye , Cheng Hongfei , Zhang Xiao , Ding Feng , Zhang Hua
Published: August 2019

As an important aspect of crystal phase engineering, controlled crystal phase transformation of noble metal nanomaterials has emerged as an effective strategy to explore novel crystal phases of nanomaterials. In particular, it is of significant importance to observe the transformation pathway and reveal the transformation mechanism in situ. Here, the phase transformation behavior of face‐centered cubic (fcc) Au nanoparticles (fcc‐AuNPs), adhering to the surface of 4H nanodomains in 4H/fcc Au nanorods, referred to as 4H‐AuNDs, during in situ transmission electron microscopy imaging is systematically studied. It is found that the phase transformation is dependent on the ratio of the size of the monocrystalline nanoparticle (NP) to the diameter of 4H‐AuND. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulation and theoretical modeling are used to explain the experimental results, giving a size‐dependent phase transformation diagram which provides a general guidance to predict the phase transformation pathway between fcc and 4H Au nanomaterials. Impressively, this method is general, which is used to study the phase transformation of other metal NPs, such as Pd, Ag, and PtPdAg, adhering to 4H‐AuNDs. The work opens an avenue for selective phase engineering of nanomaterials which may possess unique physicochemical properties and promising applications.
Rheological characterization of self‐compacting concrete: New recommendation
Authors: Benaicha Mouhcine , Belcaid Aicha , Alaoui Adil H. , Jalbaud Olivier , Burtschell Yves
Published: August 2019

The most commonly used test to characterize the fluidity of self‐compacting concretes (SCC) is the Abrams cone spreading. However, this later, according to many scientific studies, contains some defects depending on the operator and the analysis of the found results. Further, the use of a concrete rheometer on building site is a very complex operation. In this regard, our laboratory has developed another practical, simple, and economical test able to measure, on building site, the plastic viscosity and the yield stress of the SCC. This is a “V‐Funnel coupled to a horizontal Plexiglas channel” test. The experimental results of our study show that the proposed tool can replace the LCPC‐box test, the concrete rheometer and other empirical tests recommended by the European standards.
Recent Advances in Facile Liquid Phase Epoxidation of Light Olefins over Heterogeneous Molybdenum Catalysts
Authors: Yan Wenjuan , Liu Mengyuan , Wang Jinyao , Shen Jian , Zhang Shuxia , Xu Xiaoqiang , Wang Shuaishuai , Ding Jie , Jin Xin
Published: August 2019

Molybdenum complexes are versatile and efficient for liquid phase olefin epoxidation reactions. Rational design of catalysts is critical to achieve high atom efficiency during epoxidation processes. Although liquid phase epoxidation has been a popular topic for decades, three key issues, (a) rational control of morphology of molybdenum nanoparticles, (b) manipulating metal‐support interaction and (c) altering electronic configuration at molybdenum center remains unsolved in this area. Therefore, in this paper, we have critically revised recent research progress on heterogeneous molybdenum catalysts for facile liquid phase olefin epoxidation in terms of catalyst synthesis, surface characterization, catalytic performance and structure‐function relationship. Furthermore, plausible reaction mechanisms will be systematically discussed with the aim to provide insights into fundamental understanding on novel epoxidation chemistry.
Experimental assessment of capacities for cumulative culture: Review and evaluation of methods
Authors: Caldwell Christine A. , Atkinson Mark , Blakey Kirsten H. , Dunstone Juliet , Kean Donna , Mackintosh Gemma , Renner Elizabeth , Wilks Charlotte E. H.
Published: August 2019

In the current literature, there are few experimental tests of capacities for cumulative cultural evolution in nonhuman species. There are even fewer examples of such tests in young children. This limited evidence is noteworthy given widespread interest in the apparent distinctiveness of human cumulative culture, and the potentially significant theoretical implications of identifying related capacities in nonhumans or very young children. We evaluate experimental methods upon which claims of capacities for cumulative culture, or lack thereof, have been based. Although some of the established methods (those simulating generational succession) have the potential to identify positive evidence that fulfills widely accepted definitions of cumulative culture, the implementation of these methods entails significant logistical challenges. This is particularly true for testing populations that are difficult to access in large numbers, or those not amenable to experimental control. This presents problems for generating evidence that would be sufficient to support claims of capacities for cumulative culture, and these problems are magnified for establishing convincing negative evidence. We discuss alternative approaches to assessing capacities for cumulative culture, which circumvent logistical problems associated with experimental designs involving chains of learners. By inferring the outcome of repeated transmission from the input–output response patterns of individual subjects, sample size requirements can be massively reduced. Such methods could facilitate comparisons between populations, for example, different species, or children of a range of ages. We also detail limitations and challenges of this alternative approach, and discuss potential avenues for future research.

This article is categorized under:

Cognitive Biology > Evolutionary Roots of Cognition

Cognitive Biology > Cognitive Development

Psychology > Comparative Psychology
The holographic dual of Rényi relative entropy
Authors: Bao Ning , Moosa Mudassir , Shehzad Ibrahim
Published: August 2019

Abstract

The relative entropy is a measure of the distinguishability of two quantum states. A great deal of progress has been made in the study of the relative entropy between an excited state and the vacuum state of a conformal field theory (CFT) reduced to a spherical region. For example, when the excited state is a small perturbation of the vacuum state, the relative entropy is known to have a universal expression for all CFT’s [1]. Specifically, the perturbative relative entropy can be written as the symplectic flux of a certain scalar field in an auxiliary AdS-Rindler spacetime [1]. Moreover, if the CFT has a semi-classical holographic dual, the relative entropy is known to be related to conserved charges in the bulk dual spacetime [2]. In this paper, we introduce a one-parameter generalization of the relative entropy which we call refined Rényi relative entropy. We study this quantity in CFT’s and find a one-parameter generalization of the aforementioned known results about the relative entropy. We also discuss a new family of positive energy theorems in asymptotically locally AdS spacetimes that arises from the holographic dual of the refined Rényi relative entropy.
Geometry and BMS Lie algebras of spatially isotropic homogeneous spacetimes
Authors: Figueroa-O’Farrill José , Grassie Ross , Prohazka Stefan
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Simply-connected homogeneous spacetimes for kinematical and aristotelian Lie algebras (with space isotropy) have recently been classified in all dimensions. In this paper, we continue the study of these “maximally symmetric” spacetimes by investigating their local geometry. For each such spacetime and relative to exponential coordinates, we calculate the (infinitesimal) action of the kinematical symmetries, paying particular attention to the action of the boosts, showing in almost all cases that they act with generic non-compact orbits. We also calculate the soldering form, the associated vielbein and any invariant aristotelian, galilean or carrollian structures. The (conformal) symmetries of the galilean and carrollian structures we determine are typically infinite-dimensional and reminiscent of BMS Lie algebras. We also determine the space of invariant affine connections on each homogeneous spacetime and work out their torsion and curvature.
The Association Between Internet Gaming Disorder and Impulsivity: A Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Şalvarlı Şerife İnci , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: August 2019

Research examining Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) has increased substantially over the past decade. One of the risk factors for IGD includes poor impulse control. The present study comprises the first ever systematic review of studies examining the relationship between IGD and impusivity utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. A literature search was conducted via EBSCO (which included the following academic databases: Academic Search Complete, PsycARTICLES, and PsycINFO), PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Wiley Online Library. The inclusion criteria were (i) publication date between 2000 and 2019, (ii) being an empirical study that collected primary data, (iii) written in English and Turkish languages (the two languages spoken by the authors), (iv) published in a scholarly peer-reviewed journal, and (v) conducted an objective assessment of both IGD and impulsivity. Following these procedures, 33 eligible empirical studies remained for evaluation in the present review comprising 18,128 participants in total. Results demonstrated that despite many methodological weaknesses, 32 studies reported a positive association between impulsivity and IGD. Possible explanations for this consistent finding appear to indicate that altered neurobiological structures detected in participants with impulsivity may explain some of the relationships between impulsivity and internet gaming disorder.
Powerful Substances Because of Powerless Powers
Authors: KUYKENDALL DAVIS
Published: August 2019

I argue that the debate between proponents of substance causation and proponents of causation by powers, as to whether substances or their powers are causes, hinges on whether or not powers (as properties) are self-exemplifying or non-self-exemplifying properties. Substance causation is committed to powers being non-self-exemplifying properties while causation by powers is committed to powers being self-exemplifying properties. I then argue that powers are non-self-exemplifying properties, in support of substance causation.
Coping With a Mass Casualty: Insights into a Hospital’s Emergency Response and Adaptations After the Formosa Fun Coast Dust Explosion
Authors: Chuang Sheuwen , Woods David D. , Ting Hsien-Wei , Cook Richard I. , Hsu Jiin-Chyr
Published: August 2019

Objective:

The study provides a comprehensive insight into how an initial receiving hospital without adequate capacity adapted to coping with a mass casualty incident after the Formosa Fun Coast Dust Explosion (FFCDE).

Methods:

Data collection was via in-depth interviews with 11 key participants. This was combined with information from medical records of FFCDE patients and admission logs from the emergency department (ED) to build a detailed timeline of patients flow and ED workload changes. Process tracing analysis focused on how the ED and other units adapted to coping with the difficulties created by the patient surge.

Results:

The hospital treated 30 victims with 36.3% average total body surface area burn for over 5 hours alongside 35 non-FFCDE patients. Overwhelming demand resulted in the saturation of ED space and intensive care unit beds, exhaustion of critical materials, and near-saturation of clinicians. The hospital reconfigured human and physical resources differently from conventional drills. Graphical timelines illustrate anticipatory or reactive adaptations. The hospital’s ability to adapt was based on anticipation during uncertainty and coordination across roles and units to keep pace with varying demands.

Conclusion:

Adapting to beyond-surge capacity incident is essential to effective disaster response. Building organizational support for effective adaptation is critical for disaster planning.
Connected by More Than Exceptional Imports: Performance and Identity in Hallstatt C/D Elite Burials of the Low Countries
Authors: van der Vaart-Verschoof Sasja , Schumann Robert
Published: August 2019

The Low Countries' Early Iron Age is marked by the emergence of lavish burials known as chieftains’ graves or princely burials. These extraordinary elite burials of the Hallstatt C/D period contain weaponry, bronze vessels as well as decorated wagons and horse-gear imported from the Hallstatt culture of Central Europe, where the same objects are found in the famousFürstengräber. While the connection between these regions has long been recognized, the nature of this contact remains poorly understood. Here we present the preliminary results of an on-going re-examination of elite funerary practices in both regions and the likely direct long-distance interactions reflected in them. Similarities and differences in the treatment of objects and the dead in funerary rituals indicate that, to a certain extent at least, these geographically separated social groups were integrated in a specific elite burial practice, indicating frequent contact across hundreds of kilometres.
NEW SUPERCONGRUENCES INVOLVING PRODUCTS OF TWO BINOMIAL COEFFICIENTS
Authors: SUN ZHI-HONG
Published: August 2019

Let $p>3$ be a prime and let $a$ be a rational $p$-adic integer with $a\not \equiv 0\;(\text{mod}\;p)$. We evaluate $$\begin{eqnarray}\mathop{\sum }_{k=1}^{(p-1)/2}\frac{1}{k}\binom{a}{k}\binom{-1-a}{k}\quad \text{and}\quad \mathop{\sum }_{k=0}^{(p-1)/2}\frac{1}{2k-1}\binom{a}{k}\binom{-1-a}{k}\end{eqnarray}$$ modulo $p^{2}$ in terms of Bernoulli and Euler polynomials.
Dietary differences between metabolically healthy overweight-obese and metabolically unhealthy overweight-obese adults
Authors: Jurado-Fasoli Lucas , De-la-O Alejandro , Castillo Manuel J. , Amaro-Gahete Francisco J.
Published: August 2019

The aim of the study is to determine the differences in dietary parameters (energy and nutrient intake, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and consumption of food groups) in metabolically healthy overweight-obese (MHOO)v. metabolically unhealthy overweight-obese (MUOO) middle-aged adults. A total of fifty-one middle-aged adults were classified as MHOO or MUOO. BMI and blood pressure were evaluated following the recommendations. HDL, TAG and blood glycaemia were measured in blood samples. Blood pressure was also assessed. Dietary factors were assessed through three 24-h recalls, a validated FFQ and the PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea (PREDIMED) questionnaire. All variables were evaluated between September and October 2016 and 2017. Our results showed that MHOO individuals registered a higher fish consumption (P= 0·035) and higher compliance (lower consumption) in the commercial sweets and confectionery item of the PREDIMED questionnaire (P= 0·036). No differences were noted in other dietary factors including energy and nutrient intake, consumption of other food groups and in the PREDIMED total score. A near-significant trend toward significance was observed in nuts consumption, wine and fish items of the PREDIMED questionnaire. In conclusion, higher fish consumption and a higher compliance in the commercial sweets and confectionery item of the PREDIMED questionnaire were observed in MHOO middle-aged adults.
Programming effects of an early life diet containing large phospholipid-coated lipid globules are transient under continuous exposure to a high-fat diet
Authors: Ronda Onne A. H. O. , van de Heijning Bert J. M. , de Bruin Alain , Jurdzinski Angelika , Kuipers Folkert , Verkade Henkjan J.
Published: August 2019

Breast-feeding is associated with a lower risk of developing obesity during childhood and adulthood compared with feeding infant milk formula (IMF). Previous studies have shown that an experimental IMF (eIMF; comprising Nuturis®) programmed mouse pups for a lower body weight and fat mass gain in adulthood when challenged with a high-fat diet (HFD) compared with a control IMF (cIMF). Nuturis has a lipid composition and structure more similar to breast milk. Here, the long-term effects were tested of a similar eIMF, but with an adapted lipid composition and a cIMF, on body weight, glucose homoeostasis, liver and adipose tissue. Nutrient composition was similar for the eIMF and cIMF; the lipid fractions comprised approximately 50 % milk fat. C57BL/6JOlaHsd mice were fed cIMF or eIMF from postnatal day (PN) 16–42 followed by an HFD until PN168. Feeding eIMF v. cIMF in early life resulted in a lower body weight (–9 %) and body fat deposition (–14 %) in adulthood (PN105). The effect appeared transient, as from PN126 onwards, after 12 weeks’ HFD, eIMF-fed mice caught up on controls and body and fat weights became comparable between groups. Glucose and energy metabolism were similar between groups. At dissection (PN168), eIMF-fed mice showed larger (+27 %) epididymal fat depots and a lower (–26 %) liver weight without clear morphological aberrations. Our data suggest the size and coating but not the lipid composition of IMF fat globules underlie the programming effect observed. Prolonged exposure to an HFD challenge partly overrules the programming effect of early diet.
‘Urgent suspicion of cancer’ referrals to a head and neck clinic – what do patients expect?
Authors: Montgomery J , Douglas C M , Begbie F , Hitchings A , MacKenzie K
Published: August 2019

Background

Public awareness of ‘red flag’ symptoms for head and neck cancer is low. There is a lack of evidence regarding patient concerns and expectations in consultations for cancer assessment.

Method

This prospective questionnaire study examined the symptoms, concerns and expectations of 250 consecutive patients attending an ‘urgent suspicion of cancer’ clinic at a tertiary referral centre.

Results

The patients’ most frequent responses regarding their concerns were ‘no concerns’ (n = 72, 29 per cent); ‘all symptoms’ were a cause for concern (n = 65, 26 per cent) and ‘neck lump’ was a symptom causing concern (n = 37, 17 per cent). The expectations of patients attending clinic were that they would find out what was wrong with them, followed by having no expectations at all. Overall patient knowledge of red flag symptoms was lacking and their expectations were low.

Conclusion

Patients with non-cancer symptoms are frequently referred with suspected cancer. Patients with red flag symptoms are not aware of their significance and they have low expectations of healthcare.
Maternal depression and inflammation during pregnancy
Authors: Lahti-Pulkkinen Marius , Girchenko Polina , Robinson Rachel , Lehto Soili M. , Toffol Elena , Heinonen Kati , Reynolds Rebecca M. , Kajantie Eero , Laivuori Hannele , Villa Pia M. , Hämäläinen Esa , Lahti Jari , Räikkönen Katri
Published: August 2019

Background

Maternal depression during pregnancy increases the risk for adverse developmental outcomes in children. However, the underpinning biological mechanisms remain unknown. We tested whether depression was associated with levels of and change in the inflammatory state during pregnancy, if early pregnancy overweight/obesity or diabetes/hypertensive pregnancy disorders accounted for/mediated these effects, and if depression added to the inflammation that typically accompanies these conditions.

Methods

We analyzed plasma high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and glycoprotein acetyls at three consecutive stages during pregnancy, derived history of depression diagnoses before pregnancy from Care Register for Healthcare (HILMO) (N = 375) and self-reports (N = 347) and depressive symptoms during pregnancy using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale completed concurrently to blood samplings (N = 295). Data on early pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and diabetes/hypertensive pregnancy disorders came from medical records.

Results

Higher overall hsCRP levels, but not change, during pregnancy were predicted by history of depression diagnosis before pregnancy [HILMO: mean difference (MD) = 0.69 standard deviation (s.d.) units; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.26–1.11, self-report: MD = 0.56 s.d.; 95% CI 0.17–0.94] and higher depressive symptoms during pregnancy (0.06 s.d. per s.d. increase; 95% CI 0.00–0.13). History of depression diagnosis before pregnancy also predicted higher overall glycoprotein acetyls (HILMO: MD = 0.52 s.d.; 95% CI 0.12–0.93). These associations were not explained by diabetes/hypertensive disorders, but were accounted for and mediated by early pregnancy BMI. Furthermore, in obese women, overall hsCRP levels increased as depressive symptoms during pregnancy increased (p = 0.006 for interaction).

Conclusions

Depression is associated with a proinflammatory state during pregnancy. These associations are mediated by early pregnancy BMI, and depressive symptoms during pregnancy aggravate the inflammation related to obesity.
Is the God of Anselm unloving? A response to Eleonore Stump
Authors: STEPHAN HAYDEN C.
Published: August 2019

In her recent book Atonement, Eleonore Stump objects to the Anselmian theory of atonement, claiming it is not consistent with God's love. I argue that her objection mischaracterizes Anselmian theories. First, Stump equivocates on the concept of forgiveness, conflating personal forgiveness with divine pardon, and second, Stump misrepresents the God of Anselm as unwilling to reconcile with sinners prior to receiving satisfaction. I suggest that Stump's real objection should be to the Anselmian view of divine justice as retributive, not to his conception of divine love. I suggest a model of an all-loving God acting as a retributive judge.