bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Biomedical Applications of Multicolor Carbon Dots: Recent Advances and Future Challenges
Authors: Huo Feng , Karmaker Pran Gopal , Liu Yuhang , Zhao Bin , Yang Xiupei
Published: March 2020

Multicolor carbon dots (CDs) as an emerging subclass of carbonaceous nanomaterials have inspired intensive attention due to the fascinating fluorogenic properties of quantum dots, exhibiting great potential applications in the biomedical field. In some cases, reported CDs with blue or green fluorescence are not desirable for further biological applications owing to the conflicting background autofluorescence, low penetration, and relatively large damage to biological tissue. However, multicolor CDs that can work in the longer wavelength region are being developed to address this issue by overcoming the autofluorescence from the cellular components (usually in the blue and green range). In this review, the development of multicolor CDs is described comprehensively, including for red‐emissive or NIR‐emissive CDs. Additionally, the preparation methods of multicolor CDs are summarized. Moreover, the factors affecting the luminescence of multicolor CDs are discussed in detail, and the biomedical applications are emphasized from multiple perspectives.
Antimicrobial ZnO Nanoparticle–Doped Polyvinyl Alcohol/Pluronic Blends as Active Food Packaging Films
Authors: Amin Khaled M. , Partila Abir M. , Abd El‐Rehim Hassan A. , Deghiedy Noha M.
Published: March 2020

Today, plastic waste has been highlighted as one of the greatest threats to the environment. These environmental concerns and the increased necessity for safe food packaging have inspired scientists to focus on the development of active biodegradable materials. Herein, a novel poly(vinyl alcohol)/pluronic/ZnO nanocomposite film (PVA/PLUR/ZnO) is introduced as an active packaging material with enhanced antimicrobial activity. Gamma irradiation is used as a “green” route to prepare ZnO nanoparticles via a polymer pyrolysis method. The as‐prepared ecofriendly ZnO nanoparticles are characterized and incorporated into the PVA/PLUR matrix in different concentrations. Transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering measurements prove that ZnO nanoparticles have a mean particle size of 30 nm with a spherical‐like morphology. Morphological and structural characterization confirm the successful incorporation of ZnO into the PVA/PLUR matrix, which in turn enhances the thermal and barrier properties of PVA/PLUR/ZnO nanocomposite films. On the other hand, the opacity of blends is increased. The PVA/PLUR/ZnO composites exhibit broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram‐positive, Gram‐negative bacterial pathogens, and fungi, and the activity increases with increasing concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles. These results introduce PVA/PLUR/ZnO films as effective antimicrobial materials for active food‐packaging applications.
Embedded Manganin Gauge Measurements and Modeling of Shock Initiation in HMX‐Based PBX Explosives with Different Particle Sizes and Porosities
Authors: Bai Zhiling , Duan Zhuoping , Wen Lijing , Zhang Zhenyu , Ou Zhuocheng , Huang Fenglei
Published: March 2020

A series of shock initiation experiments on the explosive PBXC03 (87 % HMX, 7 % TATB, and 6 % Viton by weight) with different particle sizes and porosities under various shock loadings have been performed, and it is found that the particle size and the porosity of the explosives have much influence on the shock initiation characteristics. That is, the smaller the particle size, the more difficult the explosive to be ignited but the faster the detonation grows once the explosive is ignited. It is also found that the detonation grows the fastest in the explosive with moderate porosity. Moreover, a modified mesoscopic reaction rate model based on the experimental results and the pore collapse hot‐spot ignition mechanism is developed, which allows for a separate reaction mechanism evaluation at different reaction stages for the shock initiation and detonation growth processes in the explosives. The calculated pressure‐time histories and Pop‐Plots for PBXC03 are founded to be all in good agreement with the experimental data. The modified mesoscopic reaction rate model shows its potentiality for quantitatively predicting the effects of the mesostructure of PBXs on the shock initiation and detonation growth processes with a high degree of confidence.
Electron correlation effects in cobalt fluorides CoFn
Authors: Stemmle Christian , Paulus Beate
Published: March 2020

The molecular cobalt fluorides CoF2, CoF3 and CoF4 are studied and compared by employing different basis sets as well as Quantum Information Theory (QIT) to investigate their correlation effects. These prototypical monomers may be systematically extended in size yielding a novel quasi 1‐dimensional, strongly correlated model system consisting of cobalt atoms bridged by oxygen atoms and fluorine termination on both ends. Accurate correlation energies are obtained using Full Configuration Interaction (FCI) and Full Configuration Interaction Quantum Monte Carlo (FCIQMC) calculations and the results are compared to Coupled Cluster and Density Matrix Renormalization Group (DMRG) energies. The analysis indicates the cobalt atom requires a larger number of one‐electron basis functions than fluorine and the use of localized molecular orbitals may facilitate calculations for the extended systems.
A familial case of Birt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome complicated with various cancers
Authors: Goto Yuki , Tobino Kazunori , Munechika Miyuki , Yoshimatsu Yuki , Ide Hiromi , Tsuruno Kosuke
Published: March 2020

An 89‐year‐old woman with small papules on her face presented to our hospital complaining of progressive dyspnoea. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed bilateral multiple lung cysts, a nodular opacity in the right lower lobe, and bilateral pleural effusion. She was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma. Her son, a 65‐year‐old man, also had bilateral basally located lung cysts and a past medical history of spontaneous pneumothorax. He had multiple papules on the face and neck, which were pathologically diagnosed as fibrofolliculomas. We considered these cases to be Birt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome (BHDS). Folliculin (FLCN) gene mutations that may be tumour suppressive are suspected to be causative of this syndrome. FLCN dysfunction might lead to the development of various types of tumours other than renal tumours.
An interactive decision‐making tool for evaluating biological and statistical standards of migrating fish survival past hydroelectric dams
Authors: Molina‐Moctezuma Alejandro , Zydlewski Joseph
Published: March 2020

Quantifying the downstream survival of migrating fish past dams is critical for conservation efforts. Regulators require assessments of survival as a condition of operation. Failure to meet an established survival standard may result in required operational or costly structural changes at a facility. Establishing the survival standard, as well as the rules of assessment, is a point of contention between regulators and operators. Management goals are based on biological criteria, but there are inherent statistical and probabilistic trade‐offs when choosing a standard value and the method for assessment. We make a distinction between a “biological” goal (the conservation goal) and a “statistical” standard (a function of the biological goal, sample size, assessment method, and years of consecutive evaluation). An effective statistical standard maximizes true positives (passing the standard when the biological goal is being met) and true negatives (failing the standard when the goal is not being met), while minimizing false negatives and false positives. We explored the effects of sample size, true survival, and assessment methods on the probability of passing different statistical standards by simulating survival studies (simulating mark‐recapture experiments). We observed a strong influence of assessment methods on the probability of making the right decision (true positive or true negative), especially when sample size, and recapture probability was low. As a support tool, we developed an interactive user interface to explore specific scenarios, and to aid communication among decision‐makers.
Characterization of Gelolls in northern Alaska, USA
Authors: Acree Autumn , Weindorf David C. , Galbraith John M. , Jelinski Nicolas A. , Paulette Laura
Published: March 2020

Mollisols are dark colored, carbon‐rich mineral soils occupying a large proportion (836 soil series) of the soils of the Central Plains of the United States. By contrast, only eight official soil series of Mollisols have been mapped in Alaska (six Haplocryolls, one Calcicryoll, one Haplogeloll). Little information exists about Geloll pedogenesis, taxonomic variability, and extent. In this study, 39 horizons were morphologically described across ten Geloll pedons in northern Alaska. Based on analogous taxonomic structure in Cryolls, two pedons would meet the criteria for a Fluventic subgroup as the organic carbon content was ≥0.3% (1.47% and 0.88%) at a depth of 125 cm below the mineral soil surface. Three pedons would meet the criteria for a Pachic subgroup because the mollic epipedon was thicker than 40 cm (52 cm, 53 cm, and 54 cm) and the texture class was finer than loamy fine sand (sandy loam). However, no Fluventic or Pachic subgroups currently exist for Haplogelolls. Two pedons were classified as Cumulic Haplogelolls, and three pedons were Typic Haplogelolls. Field and laboratory characterization allowed for the development of a Geloll pedogenic concept generally represented by well‐drained soils with limestone and/or dolomitic parent material. Such soils generally feature thin or no surficial organic horizons and large quantities of coarse fragments and coarse textured materials. Soil organic carbon calculations for suspected areas of Alaska Gelolls total 1.18 Pg; closely aligning with estimates of previous studies. Future work should expand the explanatory taxonomy based on new morphological expressions observed throughout gelic temperature regime regions.
The role of ultrasound in enhancing mesenchymal stromal cell-based therapies
Authors: Liu Daniel D. , Ullah Mujib , Concepcion Waldo , Dahl Jeremy J. , Thakor Avnesh S.
Published: March 2020

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been a popular platform for cell-based therapy in regenerative medicine due to their propensity to home to damaged tissue and act as a repository of regenerative molecules that can promote tissue repair and exert immunomodulatory effects. Accordingly, a great deal of research has gone into optimizing MSC homing and increasing their secretion of therapeutic molecules. A variety of methods have been used to these ends, but one emerging technique gaining significant interest is the use of ultrasound. Sound waves exert mechanical pressure on cells, activating mechano-transduction pathways and altering gene expression. Ultrasound has been applied both to cultured MSCs to modulate self-renewal and differentiation, and to tissues-of-interest to make them a more attractive target for MSC homing. Here, we review the various applications of ultrasound to MSC-based therapies, including low-intensity pulsed ultrasound, pulsed focused ultrasound, and extracorporeal shockwave therapy, as well as the use of adjunctive therapies such as microbubbles. At a molecular level, it seems that ultrasound transiently generates a local gradient of cytokines, growth factors, and adhesion molecules that facilitate MSC homing. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these methods are far from fully elucidated and may differ depending on the ultrasound parameters. We thus put forth minimal criteria for ultrasound parameter reporting, in order to ensure reproducibility of studies in the field. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms will enhance our ability to optimize this promising therapy to assist MSC-based approaches in regenerative medicine.

Significance statement Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a popular platform for regenerative medicine due to their ability to home to damaged organs and secrete molecules that spur cell growth and suppress inflammation. However, there remains a need to optimize their therapeutic effect for clinical translation. One such strategy is the use of ultrasound. Ultrasound can be applied to MSCs to enhance their ability to secrete regenerative molecules or applied to a target organ to make it a more attractive destination for infused MSCs. The present article reviews the current knowledge of ultrasound's biological effects and preclinical applications for MSC-based therapies.
Gender differences in household energy decision‐making and impacts in energy saving to achieve sustainability: A case of Kathmandu
Authors: Shrestha Bindu , Bajracharya Sushil B. , Keitsch Martina M. , Tiwari Sudarshan R.
Published: March 2020

Electrical appliances use increased in the households of Kathmandu city for the last three decades. The use and purchase of appliances have a significant contribution to household energy‐saving behavior. This study examines gender differences in electrical appliances purchase decision‐making process based on socioeconomic context—headship, family composition, ethnicity, and location as objective variables; and subjective variables—energy practice, knowledge, and consciousness. Data were collected from 623 households survey with cross‐sectional interviews for diversity in Kathmandu in inner‐city, middle‐city, and outer‐city layer. The findings indicated that women actively participated in energy‐saving practices, and men had little higher energy knowledge in technology. In terms of attitude, women scored significantly higher for environmental consciousness by checking energy bills than men. Household energy saving positively influenced through female participation in energy decision‐making process; however, they had a low level of technical knowledge. The study expects to contribute to energy policy for the effective decision‐making process to achieve sustainability from empirical knowledge of gender differences.
CuI/DBU‐Mediated MBH Reaction of Isatins: A Convenient Synthesis of 3‐Substituted‐3‐hydroxy‐2‐oxindole
Authors: Kumar Kapil , Rawal Ravindra K.
Published: March 2020

An efficient, simple and economic Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman approach for construction of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐substituted‐2‐oxindole was proceeded smoothly from isatin derivatives and methyl acrylate/acrylonitrile using mild catalytic conditions. It was demonstrated that proper selection of catalyst and reaction medium would differentiate the feasibility of reaction and yield of the final product. Reaction condition was explored the novel combination of Copper Iodide (CuI) and 1,8‐Diazabicyclo [5.4.0] undec‐7‐ene (DBU) in the presence of dichloromethane (DCM) as the medium. This strategy provides a facile access to various derivatives with good to excellent yields in short span of time. The resulting derivatives can serve as a valuable synthetic building block for pharmaceuticals and natural products.
Europium Doped TiO2−Ta2O5 Heterostructure for Photodegradation of Dyes
Authors: Ghugal Sachin G. , Vidyasagar Devthade , Ghugal Sandip G. , Shende Ashok G. , Toshali Bhoyar Ms. , Umare Suresh S.
Published: March 2020

A europium doped TiO2−Ta2O5 mixed oxide heterostructure prepared by wet impregnation method shows improved visible light absorption than the anatase TiO2 and undoped TiO2−Ta2O5 heterostructure. The structural analysis suggested the presence of mixed TiO2 and the orthorhombic Ta2O5 phase. The photoactivity of Eu‐doped TiO2−Ta2O5 composites assessed towards the degradation of a model indigo carmine (IC) dye revealed high photodegradation activity than the individual metal oxides. The combination of efficient photo‐excitons separation and enhanced visible‐light absorption are corroborated factors responsible for the upgraded photocatalytic activity. Importantly, the prepared heterostructure found to be photostable and active for six repetitive recycles.
FeCl3‐Catalyzed [3+2] Cycloaddition Reaction: A Mild Synthetic Approach to Spirooxindolo‐2‐iminothiazolidine Scaffolds
Authors: Bhandari Sonal , Sakla Akash P. , Shankaraiah Nagula
Published: March 2020

A facile one‐pot [3+2] cycloaddition reaction for the synthesis of diversely substituted spirooxindolo‐2‐iminothiazolidine scaffolds has been accomplished by employing FeCl3as catalyst. This reaction proceedsviaLewis acid‐mediated activation of spiro‐oxindole aziridines to generate a 1,3‐dipole which undergoes intramolecular cycloaddition with different aryl/alkyl isothiocyantes. The present method offers atom economy, broad substrate scope, good to moderate yields, and wide functional group tolerance. In addition, one of the representative structures was confirmed by single X‐ray crystallography analysis.
Brönsted Acidic Ionic Liquids Catalysed Sequential Michael‐Like Addition of Indole with Chalcones via Claisen‐Schmidt Condensation
Authors: Das Sukanya , Porashar Bikoshita , Saikia Susmita , Borah Ruli
Published: March 2020

A sequential acidic ionic liquid catalyzed one pot approach was conducted for preparation of 3‐substituted indoles starting from in situ generated chalcones involving Claisen‐Schmidt condensation of substituted aromatic aldehydes with acetophenone followed by Michael‐like addition of indoles to these chalcones under solvent‐free thermal reactions. For this purpose, some new and some reported Brönsted acidic ionic liquids, 2‐alkyl‐1, 3‐disulfoimidazolium carboxylate [RDSIM][X] (where R=Me & Et and X=CH3COO−, CCl3COO−, CF3COO−), were analyzed to compare their Brönsted acidic strength and thermal stabilities. From this investigation, 2‐methyl‐1, 3‐disulfoimidazolium trifluoroacetate [MDSIM][CF3COO] and 2‐ethyl‐1,3‐disulfoimidazolium trifluoroacetate [EDSIM][CF3COO] were determined as efficient ionic liquid catalysts for study of the two‐step one pot synthesis of 3‐substituted indoles.
Anticancer Potential of N‐Sulfonyl Noscapinoids: Synthesis and Evaluation
Authors: Kumar Reddy Nagireddy Praveen , Krishna Kommalapati Vamsi , Siva Krishna Vagolu , Sriram Dharmarajan , Devi Tangutur Anjana , Kantevari Srinivas
Published: March 2020

Noscapine is an alkaloid with a basic phthalideisoquinoline moiety and is well recognized as an antitussive drug. It is obtained from opium poppy Papaver somniferum and demonstrates a rather safe toxicity profile in vitro. Recent studies found noscapine and its analogues to have anticancer activity against mammalian cancer cell lines by modulating microtubule assembly. In the present study, we report the synthesis and evaluation of cytotoxicity of a series of N‐sulfonyl noscapinoids 6 a–n obtained by reaction of nornoscapine with various aryl/heteroaryl sulfonyl chlorides. To assess the antiproliferative activity of the novel derivatives 6 a–n, SRB assay was performed in four different human cancer cell lines, MIAPaCa‐2 (pancreatic), HeLa (cervical), SK−N−SH (neuroblastoma) and DU145 (prostate cancer). The study identified four compounds 6 e–g and 6 j ability to arrest cell‐cycle at the G2/M phase and cytotoxic potential against the human pancreatic cancer cell line MIAPaCa‐2. We observed that these compounds 6 e–g and 6 j induce microtubule depolymerisation and cause cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase thereby resulting in caspase‐3 and PARP activation leading to cell death. In silico molecular docking studies of these compounds showed non‐covalent interactions like Van der Waals and hydrogen‐bonding with tubulin protein and with good binding energy.
Self‐supported Reevesite Ni‐Fe Layered Double Hydroxide Nanosheet Arrays for Efficient Water Oxidation
Authors: Liang Shuang , Wei Bo , Yuan Mengke , Li Ying , Ma Xiao , Wu Yanyan , Xu Lingling
Published: March 2020

Rational design of high efficient and low cost oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrodes is critical for electrochemical water splitting. Herein, we report Reevesite Ni−Fe layered double hydroxide (NiFe‐(CO32−)‐LDH) nanosheet arrays as novel OER catalysts in alkaline electrolyte. These self‐supported nanosheet arrays with a composition of Ni6Fe2(CO3)(OH)16 ⋅ 4H2O on Ni foam (NF) were synthesized by a one‐pot hydrothermal method, in which NF served as both the conductive substrate and Ni source. The morphology and OER activity can be tuned by iron concentration. In 1 M KOH, the optimized NiFe‐(CO32−)‐LDH catalyst only required overpotentials of 228 and 264 mV to deliver current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively, with a small Tafel slope of 37 mV dec−1. Remarkably, this catalyst also showed outstanding durability by long‐term operation for 20 h with 96 % retention. Our work provides attractive cost‐effective 3D catalysts for efficient and robust water oxidation at alkaline media.
Enantioselective Desymmetrizations of Diesters to Synthesize Fully Substituted Chiral Centers of 3,4‐Dihydrocoumarins and Related Compounds
Authors: Kelley Amber M. , Haywood Rhashanda D. , White Jonathan C. , Petersen Kimberly S.
Published: March 2020

In this communication, a preparation of novel enantioenriched 1,4‐dioxanones, 1,4‐morpholinones and 3,4‐dihydrocoumarins is described. The outlined procedure utilizes a desymmetrization strategy of prochiral diesters whereby a chiral phosphoric acid catalyzes an intramolecular lactonization to yield enantioenriched fully substituted chiral centers. This desymmetrization strategy yielded various lactones with excellent to moderate enantioselectivity and yields (12 examples up to 99% ee and 96% yield).
Piezochromism of Cruciform‐Shaped Luminophores: Suitable Molecular Design to Enhance Colour Difference and Sensitivity
Authors: Wang Bin , Wang Kai , Wei ChunYing
Published: March 2020

Two cruciform‐shaped piezochromic materials, PBM‐DPA and PBM‐BCbz, have been developed. PBM‐DPA exhibits a higher photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY) and redder emission than PBM‐BCbz owing to the formation of a hybridized local and charge‐transfer (HLCT) excited state. Furthermore, high‐pressure measurements indicate that PBM‐DPA displays a higher sensitivity (9.4 nm/GPa) than PBM‐BCbz (6.4 nm/GPa) under the same pressure range. Information from the crystal structures suggests that this is because of the easier planarization of diphenylamine (DPA) in PBM‐DPA. In contrast, PBM‐BCbz possesses a twisty conformation, owing to the large dihedral between the central benzene ring and carbazole (Cbz), which hinders the coplanarization of the whole PBM‐BCbz molecule. This phenomenon reveals that molecular structure can efficiently influence piezochromic contrast and sensitivity. Both the planarization and the HLCT excited‐state characteristics make PBM‐DPA a high‐performance piezochromic material. This research will help to design high‐performance pressure‐response materials.
Numerical Investigations on Bubble Behavior at a Steel–Slag Interface
Authors: Xu Yonggui , Ersson Mikael , Jönsson Pär G.
Published: March 2020

Herein, the volume of fluid (VOF) model is applied to simulate the phenomenon caused by the bubble motion from the molten metal into a slag. First, the mathematical model is validated by the experimental data from the literature. Then, the model is used to quantitatively predict the process of a single argon bubble passage from the liquid steel into the liquid slag. Finally, a parametric study is conducted to determine how the bubble diameter and the interfacial tension influence the bubble movement. The simulation results show that the bubble passing patterns at the steel–slag interface are oscillation‐pass, oscillations‐breakup, oscillations‐pass, pass, and pass‐breakup for the 3, 5, 7, 10, and 15 (20) mm bubbles, respectively. For a 5 mm bubble, it is found that an increase in the interfacial tension from 0.04 to 0.8 N m−1 results in a delayed bubble passage time. The results also show that the bubble experiences an oscillations‐breakup process if the interfacial tension value is up to 1.15 N m−1. However, a higher interfacial tension value (1.8 N m−1) can make the bubble pass again but with a longer passage time.
Interpretable Machine Learning—Tools to Interpret the Predictions of a Machine Learning Model Predicting the Electrical Energy Consumption of an Electric Arc Furnace
Authors: Carlsson Leo Stefan , Samuelsson Peter Bengt , Jönsson Pär Göran
Published: March 2020

Machine learning (ML) is a promising modeling framework that has previously been used in the context of optimizing steel processes. However, many of the more advanced ML models, capable of providing more accurate predictions to complex problems, are often impossible to interpret. This makes the domain experts in the steel industry, to a large extent, hesitant to adopt these models. The valuable increase in model accuracy is diminished by the lack of model interpretability. Herein, Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) is applied to an advanced ML model, predicting the electrical energy (EE) consumption of an electric arc furnace (EAF). The insights from SHAP reveal the contributions from each input variable on the EE for every single heat in the prediction domain. These contributions are then evaluated based on process metallurgical experience.
Ozone catalytic oxidation capacity of Ti‐Co@Al2O3 for the treatment of biochemical tailwater from the coal chemical industry
Authors: Sun Wenquan , Zhou Shengbao , Sun Yongjun , Tang Jiawei , Zheng Huaili
Published: March 2020

A Ti‐Co@γ‐Al2O3 composite catalyst was prepared using impregnation and sol‐gel methods to degrade biochemical tailwater from the coal chemical industry, and its preparation conditions (active component doping ratio, load times, and calcination temperature) were optimized through single‐factor experiments. The surface properties of the Ti‐Co@γ‐Al2O3 composite catalyst and the crystal structure characteristics of the catalytically active components were characterized via scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive spectrometry, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray fluorescence. The effects of reaction time, initial pH, ozone aeration, and catalyst dosage on degradation performance were investigated through an experiment on the catalytic ozonation degradation of biochemical tail water. Results showed that the optimal conditions were as follows: reaction time of 30 min, pH of 8.2, ozone aeration of 30 mg/min, and catalyst dosage of 20 g/L. The total phenol and total organic carbon removal rates for biochemical tailwater were 66.1% and 57.6%, respectively, in the catalytic system. The mechanism of degradation of organic pollutants by catalytic ozonation was investigated by adding tert‐butanol to the catalytic ozone oxidation system. The degradation of chemical oxygen demand in biochemical tailwater was caused primarily by the synergy between the Ti‐Co@γ‐Al2O3 catalyst and ozone.

Practitioner points

Ti‐Co/γ‐Al2O3 catalyst was prepared for the catalytic oxidation of biochemical tail water.

The optimal removal rates of total phenol and TOC were 67.7% and 58.8%, respectively.

The organic matter was degraded rapidly and efficiently after 5 min of ozone catalytic oxidation reaction.

It provides theoretical guidance for the practical application of ozone catalytic oxidation.
Factors Affecting Bait Site Visitation: Area of Influence of Baits
Authors: McRae Jacquelyn E. , Schlichting Peter E. , Snow Nathan P. , Davis Amy J. , VerCauteren Kurt C. , Kilgo John C. , Keiter David A. , Beasley James C. , Pepin Kim M.
Published: March 2020

Baiting is a fundamental strategy for the global management of wild pigs (Sus scrofa); however, little information exists on how anthropogenic bait affects wild pig movements on a landscape. We investigated factors that are important in determining the spatial area of attraction for wild pigs to bait (‘area of influence’ of a bait site) using data from Global Positioning System (GPS) collars and locations of bait sites. We monitored movements of wild pigs in 2 distinct study areas in the United States from February to September 2016 and used locational data using GPS collars to analyze the influence of habitat quality (dependent on site), home range size, number of bait sites in the home range, distance to a bait site, and sex in relation to movement in time and space. We determined the average area of influence by calculating the area of a circle with the radius as the average maximum distance travelled by wild pigs to reach a bait site. The average area of influence for our bait sites was 6.7 km2 (or a radius of approximately 1.5 km), suggesting a bait spacing of approximately 1.5 km would be adequate to capture visitation by most wild pigs and a spacing of 3 km could allow substantial visitation while minimizing redundant effort depending on the spatial structure of the populations. Eighty percent of wild pigs first visited bait sites within 8.9 days after bait deployment; and they visited earlier when their home range size was larger. As the number of bait sites in an individual's home range increased, individual pigs visited more bait sites, and the probability of a visit increased dramatically up to approximately 5 bait sites and much less thereafter. Wild pigs travelled farther distances to visit bait sites in lower quality habitat. Our results support the hypothesis that habitat quality can mediate the efficacy of baiting programs for wildlife by influencing their movement patterns and motivation to use anthropogenic resources. Our results suggest wild pigs will travel extensively within their home range to visit bait sites, and that in lower quality habitat, most animals will find bait sites more quickly. Determining the area of influence of bait sites can increase the efficacy of planning and monitoring management programs. Our study provides new information to help managers plan baiting designs to attract the greatest number of pigs. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Nickel Tetracarbonyl as Starting Material for the Synthesis of NHC‐stabilized Nickel(II) Allyl Complexes
Authors: Berthel Johannes H. J. , Krahfuß Mirjam J. , Radius Udo
Published: March 2020

A novel, useful in situ synthesis for NHC nickel allyl halide complexes [Ni(NHC)(η3‐allyl)(X)] starting from [Ni(CO)4], NHC and allyl halides is presented. The reaction of [Ni(CO)4] with (i) one equivalent of the corresponding NHC and (ii) with an excess of the corresponding allyl chloride at room temperature leads with elimination of carbon monoxide to complexes of the type [Ni(NHC)(η3‐allyl)(X)]. This approach was used to synthesize the complexes [Ni(tBu2Im)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Cl)] (2), [Ni(iPr2ImMe)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Cl)] (3), [Ni(iPr2Im)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Cl)] (4), [Ni(iPr2Im)(η3‐H2C‐C(H)‐C(Me)2)(Br)] (5), [Ni(Me2ImMe)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Cl)] (6), and [Ni(EtiPrImMe)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Cl)] (7). The complexes 1 to 7 were characterized using NMR and IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis, and the molecular structures are provided for 2 and 7. The allyl nickel complexes 1–7 are stereochemically non‐rigid in solution due to (i) NHC rotation about the nickel‐carbon bond, (ii) allyl rotation about the Ni–η3‐allyl axis and (iii) π–σ–π allyl isomerization processes. The allyl halide complexes can be methylated as was demonstrated by the methylation of a number of the complexes [Ni(NHC)(η3‐allyl)(X)] with methylmagnesium chloride or methyllithium, which led to isolation of the complexes [Ni(Me2Im)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Me)] (8), [Ni(tBu2Im)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Me)] (9), [Ni(iPr2ImMe)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Me)] (10), [Ni(iPr2Im)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Me)] (11), [Ni(iPr2Im)(η3‐H2C‐C(H)‐C(Me)2)(Me)] (12), and [Ni(EtiPrImMe)(η3‐H2C‐C(Me)‐CH2)(Me)] (13). These complexes were fully characterized including X‐ray molecular structures for 10 and 11.
Validity of SyMRI for Assessment of the Neonatal Brain
Authors: Schmidbauer Victor , Geisl Gudrun , Cardoso Diogo Mariana , Jengojan Suren , Perepelov Vsevolod , Weber Michael , Goeral Katharina , Lindenlaub Florian , Klebermass-Schrehof Katrin , Berger Angelika , Prayer Daniela , Kasprian Gregor
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of T1-weighted and T2-weighted contrasts generated by the MR data postprocessing software SyMRI (Synthetic MR AB, Linköping, Sweden) for neonatal brain imaging.

Methods

In this study 36 cases of neonatal MRI were retrospectively collected, which included T1-weighted and T2-weighted sequences as well as multi-dynamic multi-echo (MDME) sequences. Of the 36 neonates 32 were included in this study and 4 neuroradiologists independently assessed neonatal brain examinations on the basis of conventional and SyMRI-generated T1-weighted and T2-weighted contrasts, in order to determine the presence or absence of lesions. The sensitivity and specificity of both methods were calculated and compared.

Results

Compared to conventionally acquired T1 and T2-weighted images, SyMRI-generated contrasts showed a lower sensitivity but a higher specificity (SyMRI sensitivity 0.88, confidence interval (CI): 0.72–0.95; specificity 1, CI: 0.89–1/conventional MRI: sensitivity: 0.94, CI: 0.80–0.98; specificity: 0.94, CI: 0.80–0.98).

Conclusion

The T1-weighted and T2-weighted images generated by SyMRI showed a diagnostic accuracy comparable to that of conventionally acquired contrasts. In addition to semiquantitative imaging data, SyMRI provides diagnostic images and leads to a more efficient use of available imaging time in neonatal brain MRI.
Dielectrophoretic analysis of the impact of isopropyl alcohol on the electric polarisability of Escherichia coli whole-cells
Authors: Epping Miriam S. , Wedde Severin , Grundmann Armin , Radukic Marco , Gröger Harald , Hummel Anke , Viefhues Martina
Published: March 2020

Whole-cell biocatalysts are versatile tools in (industrial) production processes; though, the effects that impact the efficiency are not fully understood yet. One main factor that affects whole-cell biocatalysts is the surrounding medium, which often consists of organic solvents due to low solubility of substrates in aqueous solutions. It is expected that organic solvents change the biophysical and biochemical properties of the whole-cell biocatalysts, e.g. by permeabilising the cell membrane, and thus analysis of these effects is of high importance. In this work, we present an analysis method to study the impact of organic solvents on whole-cell biocatalysts by means of dielectrophoresis. For instance, we evaluate the changes of the characteristic dielectrophoretic trapping ratio induced by incubation ofEscherichia coli, serving as a model system, in an aqueous medium containing isopropyl alcohol. Therefore, we could evaluate the impact on the electric polarisability of the cells. For this purpose, a special microchannel device was designed andEscherichia colicells were genetically modified to reliably synthesise a green fluorescent protein. We could demonstrate that our method was capable of revealing different responses to small changes in isopropyl alcohol concentration and incubation duration. Complementary spectrophotometric UV-Vis (ultraviolet-visible light) absorbance analysis of released NAD(P)+/NAD(P)H cofactor and proteins confirmed our results. Based on our results, we discuss the biophysical effects taking place during incubation.
Stereotactic Radiofrequency Ablation of an Unresectable Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma (ICC): Transforming an Aggressive Disease into a Chronic Condition
Authors: Laimer Gregor , Jaschke Nikolai , Gottardis Maximilian , Schullian Peter , Putzer Daniel , Sturm Wolfgang , Bale Reto
Published: March 2020

In 2010, we reported on a 72-year-old patient with a large, unresectable cholangiocarcinoma with intrahepatic metastases, which was treated by stereotactic radiofrequency ablation (SRFA) in three consecutive sessions. Within the last nine years, the same patient has received seven additional ablation sessions for a total of ten recurrent intrahepatic lesions. One year after the last SRFA, the patient’s liver function is still within the physiological range, suggesting that this approach is not only sufficient for locally controlling tumor disease, but also for sparing healthy tissue. Moreover, periods of hospitalization were relatively short, while procedure-related pain was generally mild. In summary, SRFA has turned an aggressive disease with a devastating prognosis into a chronic condition while improving the patient’s quality of life.
Stability of the Shannon–Stam inequality via the Föllmer process
Authors: Eldan Ronen , Mikulincer Dan
Published: March 2020

We prove stability estimates for the Shannon–Stam inequality (also known as the entropy-power inequality) for log-concave random vectors in terms of entropy and transportation distance. In particular, we give the first stability estimate for general log-concave random vectors in the following form: for log-concave random vectors $$X,Y \in {\mathbb {R}}^d$$

X
,
Y
∈

R

d

, the deficit in the Shannon–Stam inequality is bounded from below by the expression $$\begin{aligned} C \left( \mathrm {D}\left( X||G\right) + \mathrm {D}\left( Y||G\right) \right) , \end{aligned}$$

C

D

X
|
|
G

+
D

Y
|
|
G

,

where $$\mathrm {D}\left( \cdot ~ ||G\right) $$

D

·

|
|
G

denotes the relative entropy with respect to the standard Gaussian and the constant C depends only on the covariance structures and the spectral gaps of X and Y. In the case of uniformly log-concave vectors our analysis gives dimension-free bounds. Our proofs are based on a new approach which uses an entropy-minimizing process from stochastic control theory.
Modeling soil erosion after mechanized logging operations on steep terrain in the Northern Black Forest, Germany
Authors: Haas Julian , Schack-Kirchner Helmer , Lang Friederike
Published: March 2020

Climate change makes it necessary to re-evaluate the erosion potential of forest infrastructure. We used the Forest Service WEPP interfaces (FS WEPP) to compare soil erosion potentials of two competing logging practices in steep terrain in the Northern Black Forest, Germany: (1) Felling with harvesters and logging with forwarders in slope line with optional traction supporting winches. (2) Felling by chainsaw, logging with a cable winch, and further transport of logs via forest dirt roads. After forest harvest we measured erosion, runoff, and DOC concentration in runoff from 50 m sections of two machine tracks, two cable tracks, and a dirt road for 2 years. The erosion measurements were used to validate FS WEPP management options and a regionally adjusted CLIGEN input file. With these parameterizations we compared the erosion potential of the two practices on subcatchment scale by modeling return periods and total sediment export with FS WEPP. Model results show that logging operations with heavy machinery in slope line are less prone to soil erosion than logging operations including winch logging and additional dirt roads. The former produces less sediment in its worst-case configuration than the latter in its most moderate configuration by a factor of two. Model results also show that erosion prevention benefits from long periods of 10 years between two harvests.
Clinical and endoscopic characteristics of diffuse esophageal intramural pseudo-diverticulosis
Authors: Hentschel Florian , Lüth Stefan
Published: March 2020

Introduction

With 250 published cases worldwide, diffuse esophageal intramural pseudo-diverticulosis (DEIPD) is a poorly understood disease. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of DEIPD in our own population, identify risk factors and clinical symptoms, and characterize its typical endoscopic signs.

Methods

Retrospective search in our center’s endoscopic and clinical database. Reviewing of all cases by re-examining stored endoscopic photographs. Reviewing of all cases regarding age, sex, risk factors, comorbidities, histology, and clinical symptoms.

Results

In a population of 150.000 we found 21 cases of DEIPD. Mean age was 56 ± 10 years. 86% were males, 76% had alcohol abuse, 57% had nicotine abuse, 38% had arteriosclerosis, 33% had COPD, 29% had malignancies, 24% had liver cirrhosis, 19% had impaired kidney function, and 15% had diabetes. Dysphagia was present in 62% and food bolus impaction (single or repeated) in 48%. Endoscopically, 95% of patients had multiple (> 4), small (0.25–2.5 mm) pseudodiverticle openings in the esophageal wall. In 62%, openings were aligned longitudinally. 86% showed edematous swelling of mucosa (“frosted glass look”), 76% showed a fine-grained pattern of small (10–100 µm) red dots (“faux uni pattern”), and 76% had a rigid, narrow lumen with multiple rings (“trachealization”).

Conclusion

With a prevalence of approximately 5 to 50/100.000, DEIPD may be more frequent than previously estimated. It preferably affects middle-aged male alcoholics. Key symptoms are chronic dysphagia and food impaction. Typical endoscopic findings are multiple, small, longitudinally aligned pseudodiverticle openings, frosted glass look, faux uni pattern, and trachealization of the esophagus.
On the 3D distribution and size fractionation of microparticles in a serpentine microchannel
Authors: Blahout Sebastian , Reinecke Simon R. , Tabaei Kazerooni Hamid , Kruggel-Emden Harald , Hussong Jeanette
Published: March 2020

Suitable methods to realize a multi-dimensional fractionation of microparticles smaller than $${10}\,\upmu \mathrm{{m}}$$10μm diameter are still rare. In the present study, size and density fractionation is investigated for $$3.55\,\upmu \mathrm{{m}}$$3.55μm and $${9.87}\,\upmu \mathrm{{m}}$$9.87μm particles in a sharp-corner serpentine microchannel of cross-sectional aspect ratio $$h/w = 0.25$$h/w=0.25. Experimental results are obtained through Astigmatism Particle Tracking Velocimetry (APTV) measurements, from which three-dimensional particle distributions are reconstructed for Reynolds numbers between 100 and 150. The 3D reconstruction shows for the first time that equilibrium trajectories do not only develop over the channel width, i.e. in-plane equilibrium positions but also over the channel height at different out-of-plane positions. With increasing Reynolds number, $$9.87\,\upmu \mathrm{{m}}$$9.87μm polystyrene $$\left( \rho _{\mathrm{{PS}}} = 1.05\,\mathrm{{g}}\;\mathrm{{cm}}^{-3} \right)$$ρPS=1.05gcm-3 and melamine $$\left( \rho _\mathrm{{MF}} = 1.51\,\mathrm{{g}}\;\mathrm{{cm}}^{-3} \right)$$ρMF=1.51gcm-3 particles focus on two trajectories near the channel bisector. In contrast to this, it is shown that $$3.55\,\upmu \mathrm{{m}}$$3.55μm polystyrene particles develop four equilibrium trajectories at different in-plane and out-of-plane positions up to a critical Reynolds number. Beyond this critical Reynolds number, also these particles merge to two trajectories at different channel heights. While the rearrangement of $$3.55\,\upmu \mathrm{{m}}$$3.55μm polystyrene particles just starts beyond $$\mathrm{{Re}}>140$$Re>140, $$9.87\,\upmu \mathrm{{m}}$$9.87μm polystyrene particles undergo this rearrangement already at $$Re=100$$Re=100. As the equilibrium trajectories of these two particle groups are located at similar out-of-plane positions, outlet geometries that aim to separate particles along the channel width turn out to be a good choice for size fractionation. Indeed, polystyrene particles of different size assume laterally well-separated equilibrium trajectories such that a size fractionation of nearly 100% at $$Re=110$$Re=110 can be achieved.
Competence, Confidence, and Gender: The Role of Objective and Subjective Financial Knowledge in Household Finance
Authors: Lind Thérèse , Ahmed Ali , Skagerlund Kenny , Strömbäck Camilla , Västfjäll Daniel , Tinghög Gustav
Published: March 2020

We studied the association of individual differences in objective financial knowledge (i.e. competence), subjective financial knowledge (i.e. confidence), numeric ability, and cognitive reflection on a broad set of financial behaviors and feelings towards financial matters. We used a large diverse sample (N = 2063) of the adult Swedish population. We found that both objective and subjective financial knowledge predicted frequent engagement in sound financial practices, while numeric ability and cognitive reflection could not be linked to the considered financial behaviors when controlling for other relevant cognitive abilities. In addition, both objective and subjective financial knowledge served as a buffer against financial anxiety, while we did not detect similar buffering effects of numeric ability and cognitive reflection. Subjective financial knowledge was found to be a stronger predictor of sound financial behavior and subjective wellbeing than objective financial knowledge. Women reported a lower level of subjective financial wellbeing even though they reported a more prudent financial behavior than men, when controlling for sociodemographics and cognitive abilities. Our findings help to understand heterogeneity in people’s propensity to engage in sound financial behaviors and have implications for important policy issues related to financial education.
An inner approximation method to compute the weight set decomposition of a triobjective mixed-integer problem
Authors: Halffmann Pascal , Dietz Tobias , Przybylski Anthony , Ruzika Stefan
Published: March 2020

This article is dedicated to the weight set decomposition of a multiobjective (mixed-)integer linear problem with three objectives. We propose an algorithm that returns a decomposition of the parameter set of the weighted sum scalarization by solving biobjective subproblems via Dichotomic Search which corresponds to a line exploration in the weight set. Additionally, we present theoretical results regarding the boundary of the weight set components that direct the line exploration. The resulting algorithm runs in output polynomial time, i.e. its running time is polynomial in the encoding length of both the input and output. Also, the proposed approach can be used for each weight set component individually and is able to give intermediate results, which can be seen as an “approximation” of the weight set component. We compare the running time of our method with the one of an existing algorithm and conduct a computational study that shows the competitiveness of our algorithm. Further, we give a state-of-the-art survey of algorithms in the literature.
Expressivity results for deontic logics of collective agency
Authors: Tamminga Allard , Duijf Hein , Van De Putte Frederik
Published: March 2020

We use a deontic logic of collective agency to study reducibility questions about collective agency and collective obligations. The logic that is at the basis of our study is a multi-modal logic in the tradition ofstit(‘sees to it that’) logics of agency. Our full formal language has constants for collective and individual deontic admissibility, modalities for collective and individual agency, and modalities for collective and individual obligations. We classify its twenty-seven sublanguages in terms of their expressive power. This classification enables us to investigate reducibility relations between collective deontic admissibility, collective agency, and collective obligations, on the one hand, and individual deontic admissibility, individual agency, and individual obligations, on the other.
Integration and Informal Institutions
Authors: Rauhut Daniel
Published: March 2020

This article offers a theoretical discussion on the role of informal institutions in the integration process of immigrants to a new country. Previous research on how immigrants become integrated and assimilated into the host countries demonstrates that integration/assimilation takes long time, often occurring over several generations; formal institutions matter; such theories are good at explaining how integration takes place, but not why integration/assimilation fails or succeeds. The informal institutions of both immigrants and native populations are examined. The discussion is based upon institutional theory in economics and political science. The findings suggest that informal institutions can explain why integration take place, and why some nationalities integrate into a new country, while others do not.