bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alternative food matrices for snack formulations in terms of acrylamide formation and mitigation
Authors: Mesías Marta , Delgado‐Andrade Cristina , Morales Francisco J
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

The salty snack market is re‐inventing itself trying to offer to consumers healthier and added‐value products often based on alternative vegetables/cereals, such as vegetable chips. New options mostly involve a nutritional improvement but the toxicological aspects of the reformulation are not usually examined. This work evaluated the acrylamide formation and effectiveness of different mitigation strategies in potato chips and in alternative snacks, such as carrot and pumpkin chips. Fresh potato, carrot and pumpkin samples were fried under controlled conditions and after being subjected to different operations (soaking in water at different times/temperatures, adding lemon or vinegar as pH modifiers or salt).

RESULTS

Acrylamide values in control samples of carrot (224 ± 47 µg kg−1) and pumpkin (514 ± 83 µg kg−1) were significantly lower than in the potato chip samples (3887 ± 509 µg kg−1). The different mitigation treatments had effects on potato and pumpkin chips, the most effective strategies being soaking options and the decrease of the pH of the medium. However, such treatments were not as effective in carrot chips.

CONCLUSIONS

These new vegetable snacks could be a healthy alternative both at nutritional and toxicological level. In addition, acrylamide concentration could even be reduced with simple mitigation operations before frying. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
How Valid Is Tomographic Ultrasound Imaging in Diagnosing Levator and Anal Sphincter Trauma?
Authors: Turel Friyan , Shek Ka Lai , Dietz Hans Peter
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Three‐/four‐dimensional translabial ultrasound (US) is increasingly used to image the levator ani and anal sphincters, especially in the form of tomographic US. The aim of the study was to evaluate the validity of these published methods.

Methods

This work was a retrospective analysis of datasets of 172 nulliparous women who attended 2 tertiary urogynecologic centers for symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction between June 2012 and September 2016. All patients had a standardized interview, clinical examination, and 4‐dimensional translabial US examination. An evaluation of volume data was performed by the first author, who was blinded against all clinical data, including parity. An assessment for levator avulsion and anal sphincter defects was performed using stored US volume data.

Results

Data sets of 162 and 153 nulliparous women were available for levator and anal sphincter assessments, respectively. On the assessment by the first author, a complete avulsion was diagnosed in 3 nulliparas. On a review by 2 senior authors, 1 was judged as positive and the other 2 as normal. On the sphincter assessment, 2 significant external anal sphincter defects were detected. On the review, 1 was judged as false‐positive. The second was judged as highly abnormal by all authors. Therefore, 1 nullipara each was diagnosed with avulsion and a significant external anal sphincter defect.

Conclusions

Published diagnostic criteria for levator avulsion and external anal sphincter trauma on tomographic US imaging are highly unlikely to result in false‐positive findings. This finding supports the clinical validity of this method.
Impact of Fabp1 Gene Ablation on Uptake and Degradation of Endocannabinoids in Mouse Hepatocytes
Authors: McIntosh Avery L. , Huang Huan , Landrock Danilo , Martin Gregory G. , Li Shengrong , Kier Ann B. , Schroeder Friedhelm
Published: September 2018

Liver fatty‐acid‐binding protein (FABP1, L‐FABP) is the major cytosolic binding/chaperone protein for both precursor arachidonic acid (ARA) and the endocannabinoid (EC) products N‐arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2‐AG). Although FABP1 regulates hepatic uptake and metabolism of ARA, almost nothing is known regarding FABP1’s impact on AEA and 2‐AG uptake, intracellular distribution, and targeting of AEA and 2‐AG to degradative hepatic enzymes. In vitro assays revealed that FABP1 considerably enhanced monoacylglycerol lipase hydrolysis of 2‐AG but only modestly enhanced AEA hydrolysis by fatty‐acid amide hydrolase. Conversely, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry of lipids from Fabp1 gene‐ablated (LKO) hepatocytes confirmed that loss of FABP1 markedly diminished hydrolysis of 2‐AG. Furthermore, the real‐time imaging of novel fluorescent NBD‐labeled probes (NBD‐AEA, NBD‐2‐AG, and NBD‐ARA) resolved FABP1’s impact on uptake vs intracellular targeting/hydrolysis. FABP1 bound NBD‐ARA with 2:1 stoichiometry analogous to ARA, but bound NBD‐2‐AG and NBD‐AEA with 1:1 stoichiometry—apparently at different sites in FABP1’s binding cavity. All three probes were taken up, but NBD‐2‐AG and NBD‐AEA were targeted to lipid droplets. LKO reduced the uptake of NBD‐ARA as expected, significantly enhanced that of NBD‐AEA, but had little effect on NBD‐2‐AG. These data indicated that FABP1 impacts hepatocyte EC levels by binding EC and differentially impacts their intracellular hydrolysis (2‐AG) and uptake (AEA).
Uncertainties of calculated Cramér‐Rao lower bounds: implications for quantitative MRS
Authors: Bonny Jean‐Marie , Pagès Guilhem
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To investigate the uncertainties on relative Cramér‐Rao lower bound (rCRB) estimates and demonstrate their biasing effects in MRS quantification.

Theory and Methods

Simulations were performed to calculate the distribution of the computed rCRB (noted rCRB*) for several rCRB levels. One hundred thousand simulations per rCRB value were performed on simulated NMR signals containing either 1 signal (singlet) or 2 partially overlapping signals. False‐positive and false‐negative risks were compiled for different threshold levels. rCRB* distribution was experimentally checked on a deuterated water sample using a 9.4 Tesla vertical magnet.

Results

Simulations showed that (1) rCRB* distribution is asymmetrical, with a right‐tailed distribution increasing the risk of accepting false‐positive data (i.e., accepting an rCRB* value whereas the true rCRB value is higher than the threshold level) and (2) distribution broadness increases with increasing rCRB level. Simulations with overlapped peaks lead to more inaccuracy in the rCRB estimation. Probabilities of false detection increase with increasing threshold level.

Conclusion

Analyzing results thanks to a CRB (or rCRB) based on experimental measurements might lead to misinterpretations. To exploit the rCRB* as rejection criteria, a conservative threshold level of 20% is recommended in order to limit the probability of false alarms.
ICS educational module: Cystometry in children
Authors: Wen Jian G. , Djurhuus Jens Christian , Rosier Peter F.W.M. , Bauer Stuart B.
Published: September 2018

Aims

To introduce the standard procedure of cystometry and interpretation of the results in children.

Methods

The literature on cystometry in children in PubMed for the last 20 years was reviewed. The updated knowledge regarding indication, preparation, technique, and interpretation of cystometry in children were summarized.

Results

Filling cystometry is the core content of a paediatric urodynamic study. In this section, the technique for performing cystometry is introduced in details. Emphasis is placed on correctly setting up the equipment according to ICS and ICCS guidelines, using appropriate terminology, providing indications for its performance with specific considerations for children, and proper interpretation of results.

Conclusions

Cystometry can be used in children including newborn to evaluate lower urinary tract dysfunction.
The maximum detrusor pressure as a predictive factor of success after sphincterotomy in detrusor‐sphincter dyssynergia
Authors: Hourié Alexandre , Nouhaud Francois‐Xavier , Baron Maximilien , Rebibo John‐David , Pfister Christian , Grise Philippe , Cornu Jean‐Nicolas
Published: September 2018

Aims

To evaluate the impact of the pre‐operative maximum detrusor pressure (MDP) on efficacy outcomes after incontinentation by sphincterotomy or urethral stent placement in male patients with neurogenic detrusor‐sphincter dyssynergia (DSD).

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in 41 male patients treated between 2006 and 2013 in a tertiary reference center. All patients had a neurogenic DSD confirmed by baseline urodynamic studies, and were unable or secondary failed to practice CISC. Success was defined as a post‐void residual volume <150 mL. Influence of MDP on treatment efficacy was evaluated through a Mann‐Whitney U‐Test.

Results

Median (range) age was 39 years (20‐69). Spinal cord injury was the main underlying condition. Twenty‐six patients had a sphincteric stent placement (Memocath®, Bard, Covington) and 15 had surgical sphincterotomy. Treatment was successful in 31 patients (76%). Patients with immediate successful outcomes had a significantly higher mean preoperative MDP (59.6 vs 29.7 cmH2O; P = 0.002). Patients with MDP over the threshold of 40 cmH2O had a 90% success rate. These differences were maintained at 6 months, MDP being higher in the success group than in the failure group (59.5 vs 39.8 cmH2O, respectively, P = 0.008). The technique used (stent placement or incision) had no impact on immediate or 6‐month success rates.

Conclusions

Our results suggested that MDP is associated with treatment success rate after surgical management of DSD of neurogenic origin by sphincteric stent placement or surgical sphincterotomy. A threshold of 40 mH2O is associated with higher success rates.
Age at Introduction of Solid Food and Obesity Throughout the Life Course
Authors: Tahir Muna J. , Michels Karin B. , Willett Walter C. , Forman Michele R.
Published: September 2018

Objective

This study aimed to examine the association between age at solid food (SF) introduction and obesity throughout the life course.

Methods

Among 31,816 mother– nurse daughter dyads in the Nurses' Mothers' Cohort Study and the Nurses' Health Study II, information was collected on age at SF introduction, body somatotype at ages 5 and 10, and Body Mass Index at age 18 and in adulthood. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for obesity throughout life were estimated using logistic regression models with adjustment for parental and nurse daughter covariates.

Results

Nurse daughters introduced to SF at ≥ 9 months versus 6 to 9 months had marginally higher age‐adjusted (OR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.47) and covariate‐adjusted (OR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.47) odds of obesity at age 5. Age at SF introduction was not related to obesity at ages 10 and 18 or in adulthood.

Conclusions

Late age at SF introduction was marginally associated with obesity at age 5, but this association did not persist throughout the life course.
Improved performance of carbon‐based supercapacitors with sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone)/poly(vinyl alcohol) composite membranes as separators
Authors: Liang Na , Ji Yongsheng , Zuo Danying , Zhang Hongwei , Xu Jing
Published: September 2018

Supercapacitors have attracted much interest because of their high power density and long cycling life. However, the porous polypropylene membranes that are widely used as separators in supercapacitors are unfavorable for transporting ions and constructing the interfaces between electrolyte and electrodes due to their hydrophobic property. As a consequence, a crosslinked solid polymer electrolyte membrane and a semi‐interpenetrating polymer network (sIPN) were fabricated from sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), which can be used as hydrophilic separators. Their structures were examined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The electrochemical properties of assembled electrical double‐layer capacitors (EDLCs) were investigated using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charging–discharging and impedance analysis. At a current density of 1 A g−1, a single electrode in the EDLC with the sIPN shows a specific capacitance of 134 F g−1. As a comparison, a single electrode in the EDLC with a SPEEK membrane demonstrates a specific capacitance of only 121 F g−1. After 1000 charge–discharge cycles, the specific capacitance retentions of both EDLCs are nearly 100%. These results suggest that the sIPN based on SPEEK and PVA has great potential to serve as a separator in EDLCs. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Early adulthood housing transitions in Amsterdam: Understanding dependence and independence between generations
Authors: Druta Oana , Limpens Aram , Pinkster Fenne M. , Ronald Richard
Published: September 2018

The housing context has a profound influence on how different generations within families negotiate dependence and independence. This article investigates the nature of intergenerational relations during early adulthood housing transitions. We consider an original dataset of qualitative interviews with young adults and their parents living in and around Amsterdam, where recent housing market liberalisation is challenging home‐leaving norms. We find that while strong norms regarding early home‐leaving and independence persist, market conditions prompt significant intergenerational support to sustain this “independence.” Support for renting and homeownership are part of different intergenerational dynamics. The first marks a process of easing into adulthood, whereas the latter solidifies new sets of relationships between fully adult generations supporting one another on equal terms. Despite professed individualization in Western European societies, the analysis of early adulthood housing transitions show that intergenerational dependencies can emerge in specific housing markets, requiring creative approaches to support young adult autonomy.
Graph limits of random graphs from a subset of connected k‐trees
Authors: Drmota Michael , Jin Emma Yu , Stufler Benedikt
Published: September 2018

For any set Ω of non‐negative integers such that , we consider a random Ω‐k‐tree Gn,k that is uniformly selected from all connected k‐trees of (n + k) vertices such that the number of (k + 1)‐cliques that contain any fixed k‐clique belongs to Ω. We prove that Gn,k, scaled by where Hk is the kth harmonic number and σΩ > 0, converges to the continuum random tree . Furthermore, we prove local convergence of the random Ω‐k‐tree to an infinite but locally finite random Ω‐k‐tree G∞,k.
Observation of DC field‐evaporated ion species extracted from transition metal nitride thin film deposited on tungsten‐tip
Authors: Nishimura Chikasa , Haneji Yuki , Tsuji Hiroshi , Gotoh Yasuhito
Published: September 2018

The ion species extracted from transition metal nitride thin films were investigated in order to understand the field evaporation mechanism of nitrogen in atom probe analysis. Nitrides of group IV transition metal, ie, titanium (Ti), zirconium (Zr), and hafnium (Hf) nitrides, were chosen for analysis, owing to their good electrical conductivities. The samples were prepared by sputtering deposition of nitride thin film on a tungsten needle. Measurements were performed at 3 different direct current voltages, and for each voltage, we observed different ion species. For TiN and ZrN, both atomic metal ions and molecular ions were detected and TiN and ZrN tended to evaporate in the form of triple‐charged molecular ions. For ZrN, Zr2+, Zr3+, ZrN3+, and (ZrN)23+ were observed at lower direct current voltages. For a higher tip voltage, N+ ions were detected in addition to these ions. These results suggest that the evaporation field of nitrogen is higher than those of Zr3+ and (ZrN)23+. In the analysis of an HfN tip, no ions could be detected. These results can be explained in terms of the differences between evaporation fields that were roughly estimated from the work functions and the bond energies of the analyzed nitrides.
Influence of temperature on the surface property of ABS resin in KMnO4 etching solution
Authors: Han Xinchen , Wang Guixiang , He Jinmeng , Guan Jingyi , He Yandong
Published: September 2018

The KMnO4‐H3PO4‐H2SO4 system was used to roughen and hydrophilically modify on the surface of ABS resin at different etching temperatures, and then, electroless nickel plating process was carried out. The surface of ABS resin after etching was characterized by XPS and SEM. It is found that the surface etching effect of ABS resin is relatively good when the etching temperature is 65°C. The resin surface generates ─OH and ─COOH hydrophilic groups, the roughness of resin surface is increased significantly, and the surface hydrophilic contact angle is 40.51°. After electroless nickel plating on the ABS etching surface, the bonding force of the coating can reach 2.73 MPa. Electrochemical polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectra also show that the corrosion resistance of coating after 65°C etching postprocessing is improved.
Cobalt‐Copper Nanoparticles Catalyzed Selective Oxidation Reactions: Efficient Catalysis at Room Temperature
Authors: Borah Biraj Jyoti , Mahanta Abhijit , Mondal Manoj , Gogoi Hemen , Yamada Yusuke , Bharali Pankaj
Published: September 2018

Bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) play a pivotal role in promoting high activity and selectivity towards various industrially important reactions in comparison to single metal NPs due to their modulated electronic and surface properties. Herein, we report the synthesis of non‐precious CoCu NPs, which serve as an excellent catalyst for the selective oxidation of a wide range of electronically diverse benzyl alcohols to benzaldehydes, in the presence of tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as an oxidant at room temperature. The excellent catalytic activity of CoCu NPs is ascribed to a two‐fold synergistic effect arising from the combination of enhanced peroxide decomposition, active Co2+ catalyst regeneration driven by the faster redox processes (between Co3+ and Cu+), and a feasible cobalt dimerisation‐regeneration process. The recoverability and reusability of CoCu NPs are also demonstrated. With the merits of low‐cost and recyclable catalysis under mild conditions, the present catalyst represents an efficient and potential alternative to precious metal catalysts.
A Synaptic Electrochemical Memristor Based on the Cu2+/Zn2+Cation Exchange in Zn:CdS Thin Films
Authors: Congiu Mirko , Boratto Miguel H. , Graeff Carlos F. O.
Published: September 2018

Neuromorphic hardware systems that simulate functions of biological brain synapses have been widely investigated due to their possible application in brain‐inspired computing. We hereby report on a novel electrochemical state machine based on Zn:CdS thin films. The memory switching mechanism involves the cation exchange of Cu2+ and Zn2+ acting as inorganic “neurotransmitters”. Similarly to the synapse‐neurotransmitter interactions, Cu2+ ions increase the conductivity and the electrocatalytic activity of Zn:CdS towards the ferrocene/ferrocenium redox process. The cationic substitution of Zn2+ by Cu2+ in the film has shown significant changes in the electrochemical characteristic of the device. Such effects have been investigated with both alternated current (impedance) and direct current (voltammetry and I vs V) measurements. The cation exchange mechanism allows to write and store an electrochemical information into the device. Such information can be gradually erased by exchanging the absorbed Cu2+ ions with Zn2+. By means of a timed soaking, of the active area, with Cu2+ and Zn2+ diethyldithiocarbamates, the device can be driven through multiple conduction states, making it suitable for applications in artificial synapses research and memory storage systems.
Microwave‐Assisted One‐Pot Synthesis of New α‐Aminophosphonates Using ZnBr2‐SiO2 as a Catalyst under Solvent‐Free Conditions and Their Anticancer Activity
Authors: Chukka Geetha , Muppuru Kesavulu M. , Banothu Venkanna , Battu Reddy S. , Addepally Uma , Gandavaram Syam P. , Chamarthi Naga R. , Mandava Rao V. B.
Published: September 2018

Synthesis of a succession of new α‐aminophosphonates 4a‐j was achieved by the one‐pot three‐component Kabachnik‐Fields reaction by reacting equimolar quantities of 4‐morpholinoaniline (1), a variety of aromatic aldehydes 2a‐j and diethyl phosphite (3) using silica‐supported zinc bromide (ZnBr2‐SiO2) as a catalyst in solvent‐free conditions under microwave (MW) irradiation. Products 4a‐j were characterized by IR, 1H, 13C, 31P, NMR and mass spectral data. For these new set of compounds, two‐dimensional structures are drawn, three‐dimensional coordinates are generated and studied for their anti‐cancer activity against breast cancer. To support theoretical findings, experimental studies are performed using breast cancer cell lines. The results of these studies suggested that analogue, 4f has the maximum activity against breast cancer cells (MDA‐MB‐231). Since α‐aminophosphonates are less toxic compared to drugs currently available in the market, this new classes of drugs have very good potential for the treatment of Breast cancer.
Application of Z–Scheme CdSWO3 Nanocomposite for Photodegradation of Ethylparaben under Irradiation with Visible Light: A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Ngigi Eric Mwangi , Kiarii Ephraim Muriithi , Nomngongo Philiswa Nosizo , Ngila Catherine Jane
Published: September 2018

The CdS
WO3 nanocomposite was successfully synthesized using the hydrothermal method. The catalytic capacity of CdS
WO3 nanocomposite was evaluated based on various parameters, such as pH, catalyst load, bicarbonate and persulfate concentrations. The ratios of CdS to WO3 was also examined to acquire the photocatalytic performance in addition, the by–products and pathway were also studied. The findings showed that CdS
WO3 (ratio 3:7) produced better photodegradation performance in comparison to CdS
WO3 (ratio 1:1). Also, from the same investigation, the CdS
WO3 nanocomposite exhibited a slightly higher catalytic ability in the presence of 150 mg L–1 S2O82– ions (at pH 3) than with bicarbonate ions. A 40% degradation was observed in the presence of 150 mg L–1 S2O82– ions (at pH 3). Moreover, about 38% of adsorption was observed with bicarbonate ions. In this study, we systematically reveal the underlying mechanism of the improved photoactivity of CdS–WO3 nanocomposite using a hybrid density functional theory calculation. The interfacial interaction led to the formation of a built–in internal electric field at the CdS–WO3 interface to promote the separation of charge carriers, The theoretical results rationalise the experimental findings and offer a new understanding of the underlying mechanism of the photoactivity of CdS–WO3 nanocomposite. The degradation pathway of Ethylparaben, which involved dealkylation of ethyl unit was proposed.
Self‐Assembly of Perovskite Crystals Anchored Al2O3‐La2O3 Nanofibrous Membranes with Robust Flexibility and Luminescence
Authors: Han Weidong , Cui Fuhai , Si Yang , Mao Xue , Ding Bin , Kim Hakyong
Published: September 2018

Inorganic luminescent materials as one of the important high‐performance materials are widely used for industry and scientific research, mainly owing to their outstanding luminescence properties. However, inorganic luminescent materials are typically brittle and inelastic, which greatly limit their use in practical applications, particularly in flexible optoelectronic devices. In this work, it is shown that “plum‐pudding” like CsPbBr3/Cs4PbBr6 perovskite crystals anchor onto Al2O3‐La2O3 (CCAL) nanofibrous membranes, which are synthesized via a facile electrospinning and subsequent supersaturated recrystallization process. The as‐synthesized CCAL membranes exhibit outstanding mechanical flexibility and luminescence properties. Meanwhile, the crystal structure and luminous performance of the CCAL membranes are regulated by different molar ratios of CsBr/PbBr2. The photoluminescence reaches a maximum value for the CCAL membranes produced with a CsBr/PbBr2 ratio of 1, and shows a narrow emission line‐width of 18 nm. Furthermore, the potential applications of the CCAL nanofibrous membranes in green light devices through a remote nanofibrous membranes packaging approach are demonstrated. A pure green emission is achieved with the Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage color coordinates of (0.28, 0.65). This facile strategy would open a new avenue to flexible inorganic luminescent materials for the lighting and backlight display industries.
Crystallization‐Induced Emission Enhancement of a Deep‐Blue Luminescence Material with Tunable Mechano‐ and Thermochromism
Authors: Wu Zhen , Mo Shenzhong , Tan Lina , Fang Bing , Su Zhiqiang , Zhang Yantu , Yin Meizhen
Published: September 2018

Organic luminescent materials with the ability to reversibly switch the luminescence when subjected to external stimuli have attracted considerable interest in recent years. However, the examples of luminescent materials that exhibit multiresponsive properties are rarely reported. In this work, a new stimuli‐responsive dye P1 is designed and synthesized with two identical chromophores of naphthalimide, one at each side of an amidoamine‐based spacer. This amide‐rich molecule offers many possibilities for forming intra‐ and intermolecular hydrogen bond interactions. Particularly, P1 has an intrinsic property of cocrystallizing with methanol. Compared with the pristine P1 sample, the as‐prepared two‐component cocrystalline material displays an exceptive deep‐blue emission, which is extremely rare among naphthalimide‐based molecules in the solid state. Furthermore, the target material exhibits an obvious mechanochromic fluorescent behavior and a large spectral shift under force stimuli. On the other hand, the cocrystalline material shows an unusual “turn off” thermochromic luminescence accompanied by solvent evaporation. Moreover, using external stimuli to reversibly manipulate fluorescent quantum yields is rarely reported to date. The results demonstrate the feasibility of a new design strategy for solid‐state luminescence switching materials: the incorporation of solvents into organic compounds by cocrystallization to obtain a crystalline state luminescence system.
Bioinspired Wear‐Resistant and Ultradurable Functional Gradient Coatings
Authors: Wang Zhengzhi , Wang Kun , Huang Houbing , Cui Xiao , Shi Xiaoming , Ma Xingqiao , Li Bei , Zhang Zuoqi , Tang Xuhai , Chiang Martin Y. M.
Published: September 2018

For mechanically protective coatings, the coating material usually requires sufficient stiffness and strength to resist external forces and meanwhile matched mechanical properties with the underneath substrate to maintain the structural integrity. These requirements generate a conflict that limits the coatings from achieving simultaneous surface properties (e.g., high wear‐resistance) and coating/substrate interfacial durability. Herein this conflict is circumvented by developing a new manufacturing technique for functional gradient coatings (FGCs) with the material composition and mechanical properties gradually varying crossing the coating thickness. The FGC is realized by controlling the spatial distribution of magnetic‐responsive nanoreinforcements inside a polymer matrix through a magnetic actuation process. By concentrating the reinforcements with hybrid sizes at the surface region and continuously diminishing toward the coating/substrate interface, the FGC is demonstrated to exhibit simultaneously high surface hardness, stiffness, and wear‐resistance, as well as superb interfacial durability that outperforms the homogeneous counterparts over an order of magnitude. The concept of FGC represents a mechanically optimized strategy in achieving maximal performances with minimal use and site‐specific distribution of the reinforcements, in accordance with the design principles of many load‐bearing biological materials. The presented manufacturing technique for gradient nanocomposites can be extended to develop various bioinspired heterogeneous materials with desired mechanical performances.
Preparation of Template‐Free Robust Yolk–Shell Gelled Particles from Controllably Evolved All‐in‐Water Emulsions
Authors: Douliez Jean‐Paul , Perro Adeline , Chapel Jean‐Paul , Goudeau Bertrand , Béven Laure
Published: September 2018

A template‐free all‐aqueous bulk preparation of robust hollow capsules having a gelatin shell from all‐in‐water double emulsions is reported. The hot (>40 °C) quaternary system water/polyethylene glycol (PEG)/gelatin/alginate is shown to spontaneously form PEG‐in‐gelatin‐in‐PEG double water emulsion droplets having a multinuclear core. These droplets are stable upon cooling below the temperature at which gelatin gelled. In contrast, above the melting temperature of gelatin, multinuclear double emulsion droplets controllably evolve into stable mononuclear yolk (aqueous PEG)‐shell (gelatin) capsules dispersed in the aqueous PEG continuous phase. It is demonstrated that the gelatin shell can accommodate negatively charged latex beads and be re‐enforced by glutaraldehyde or silica. These capsules are also shown to encapsulate payloads, suggesting possible applications in microencapsulation, drug delivery, and synthetic biology.
Multicriteria decision aid for agile methods evaluation using fuzzy PROMETHEE
Authors: El Beggar Omar
Published: September 2018

The last decade is marked by the blossom of agile methods and their growing use in many IT projects. They shared common principles and values, such as customer collaboration, early and continuous delivery of releases, accept requirements changing, and other common principles advocated by the agile manifesto since 2001. Meanwhile, there are significant differences among the practices adopted by the agile methods to fulfill agility's principles and values. The differences could be interpreted in terms of how an agile method judges the relative importance of such principles or its orientation to a specific project viewpoint (organizational, technical, or conceptual) rather than others. This fact leads to a necessity of a deep evaluation of agile methods to choose the best‐fit method suited for a project. Moreover, vague and uncertain information used to evaluate those lightweight methodologies could represent an additional difficulty for decision makers (DM). To drawback this problem, the multiple criteria decision aid (MCDA) method fuzzy PROMETHEE is proposed to assess agile methods with regard to different conflicting criteria and handling besides uncertainty in decision making. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis is provided to validate results and verify their stability.
Work practices and challenges in continuous integration: A survey with Travis CI users
Authors: Pinto Gustavo , Castor Fernando , Bonifacio Rodrigo , Rebouças Marcel
Published: September 2018

Continuous integration (CI) is a software development practice that has been gaining increasing popularity in the last few years. However, we still miss a collection of experiences regarding how software developers perceive the idea of CI, in terms of its fundamental concepts, the reasons that motivate the adoption of this practice, the reasons for build breakage, and the benefits and problems related to CI. To shed light on this direction, we conducted a user survey with 158 CI users. Through a mostly qualitative investigation, we produce a list of findings that are not always obvious. For instance, we observed that (1) developers are not sure whether a job failure represents a failure or not; (2) inadequate testing is the most common technical reason related to build breakage, whereas lack of time plays a role on the social reasons; and (3) although some respondents reported that CI systems increase the confidence that the code is in a known state, some respondents also reported that there is a false sense of confidence when blindly trusting tests. This empirical study is particularly relevant to those interested in better understanding and fostering CI practices either in an open‐source or industrial setting.
Sulfate‐Based Cathode Materials for Li‐ and Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Lander Laura , Tarascon Jean‐Marie , Yamada Atsuo
Published: September 2018

Electrochemical energy storage via Li‐ion batteries has changed modern life drastically and has enabled technologies such as portable electronic devices, electric vehicles and stationary grid storage. However, with the steadfast technological evolution and increasing energy demands, batteries need to be constantly improved to meet the needs of our society. Furthermore, increasing concerns are raised regarding sustainability, availability of raw materials and cost. Therefore, extensive research efforts have been focused on the development of new battery types leading to the emergence of the Na‐ion technology and the discovery of a myriad of new materials. In this context, polyanions became a prominent alternative to layered oxides. A large variety of polyanionic frameworks has been studied in the past years including phosphates, silicates and borates, but it was especially sulfates, which attracted a lot of attention due to their elevated operating voltages. The here presented article gives an overview of the exhaustive research on sulfate‐based cathode materials for Li‐ and Na‐ion batteries discussing recent findings and future perspectives.
Synthesis, Characterization, Modeling, and Antimicrobial Activity of FeIII, CoII, NiII, CuII, and ZnII Complexes Based on Tri‐substituted Imidazole Ligand
Authors: Ismael Mohamed , Abdou Aly , Abdel‐Mawgoud A.‐M.
Published: September 2018

The reaction of the synthesized 2‐(4,5‐diphenyl‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐yl) phenol, (HL) ligand with FeIII, CoII, NiII, CuII, and ZnII ions at room temperature resulted in the formation of the five complexes; [Fe(L)2(H2O)(Cl)]·2H2O and [M(L)2)]·nH2O [M = Co, Zn (n = 2), Ni, Cu (n = 1)]. The ligand and its complexes were characterized based on elemental analyses, spectral, magnetic and molar conductance measurements. The molecular and electronic structure of the ligand and its complexes was optimized theoretically and the quantum chemical parameters were calculated. The results revealed an interesting geometrical variation; octahedral for FeL, seesaw for CoL, distorted square planar for NiL and CuL, as well a tetrahedral arrangement for ZnL. The HL ligand and its metal complexes were screened against the growth of pathogenic bacteria [Escherichia coli (G–) and Bacillus cereus (G+)] and fungi (Aspergillus fumigatus) in terms of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The metal complexes showed high enhancement as antimicrobial candidates with lower MIC values compared with their parent ligand. Structure activity relationship formula was quantified by correlating the experimental MIC values with theoretical electronic chemical properties. Molecular docking of the complexes against CYP51B protein of A. fumigatus, the target enzyme for the antimicrobial reagents, was achieved to find the best orientation of the substrate, which would form a stable complex with overall minimum energy. The docking results enhanced the activity of the imidazole‐based complexes as promising antimicrobial candidates.
2,2‐Bis(5‐tetrazolyl)propane as Ligand in Energetic 3d Transition Metal Complexes
Authors: Szimhardt Norbert , Gruhne Michael S. , Lommel Marcus , Hess Andreas , Wurzenberger Maximilian H. H. , Klapötke Thomas M. , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: September 2018

This contribution covers the preparation and characterization of 2,2‐bis(5‐tetrazolyl)propane (5‐DTP) (1). The bridged bitetrazole is used as a neutral nitrogen‐rich ligand in 3d transition metal(II) based complexes for the first time and can be synthesized via [2+3] cycloaddition from sodium azide and dimethylmalononitrile. The combination with different anions (e.g., perchlorate, nitrate, sulfate, and chloride) yields materials with widely varying physicochemical properties. The obtained coordination compounds were characterized using low‐temperature single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (except 14), IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and DTA (except 16). The sensitivities toward external stimuli (impact and friction) were determined according to the Bundesamt für Materialforschung und ‐prüfung (BAM) standard methods together with its sensitivities against electrostatic discharge (except 16). Complexes 10 and 14 were characterized in laser ignition experiments. For determination of the compounds' deflagration to detonation transition (DDT) capability, hot plate and hot needle tests were performed for the zinc(II) and copper(II) perchlorate complexes.
Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Properties of New Coordination Polymers Incorporating 3,3‐Dimethylcyclopropane‐1,2‐dicarboxylate and 4,4′‐Bipyridine Ligands
Authors: Shi Yang , Song Miao‐Miao , Tao Dong‐Liang , Bo Qi‐Bing
Published: September 2018

Three coordination polymers, [Zn(dcd)(bipy)0.5]n (1‐Zn), [Co(dcd)(bipy)0.5]n (2‐Co), and [Cu(bipy)2(H2O)1.5·(Hdcd)2·(H2O)3.5]4n (3‐Cu) (dcd = 3,3‐dimethylcyclopropane‐1,2‐dicarboxylate dianion, bipy = 4,4′‐bipyridine) were prepared by hydrothermal reactions. They were characterized by elemental analyses, FT‐IR spectra, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray powder diffraction, photoluminescent and magnetic techniques. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies reveal that 1‐Zn and 2‐Co are isostructural and characteristic for 1D metal‐organic chains constructed by dcd bridging. Both of them contain mononuclear metal ions simultaneously bridged with short carboxylate bridges and long bipy spacers, resulting in a 2D grid framework. 3‐Cu is a neutral sandwiched ionic solid consisting of the positively charged trinuclear copper‐based coordination polymer and discrete Hdcd anions. 3‐Cu features two kinds of independent layers, which are further packed into a 3D supramolecular structure by strong hydrogen bonding interactions. Furthermore, 1‐Zn displays fluorescent emission assigned to the intra‐ligand fluorescence emission. Both 2‐Co and 3‐Cu exhibit antiferromagnetic coupling interactions. The carboxylate bridges existed in μ3‐dcd ligands can effectively mediate the antiferromagnetic interaction between CoII ions in 2‐Co, whereas strong hydrogen bonds are effective magnetic exchange pathways in 3‐Cu.
Crystal Chemistry of RE6MgxCd23–xPb [0.6(1) ≤ x ≤ 3.2(1); RE = La and Ce]. New Mixed‐Metal Derivatives of the RE6Cd23T Phases (T = Group 14/15/16 Element)
Authors: Desroches Griffen , Ovchinnikov Alexander , Bobev Svilen
Published: September 2018

Synthesis and crystal structure determinations are reported for six quaternary phases with the general formula RE6MgxCd23–xPb [RE = La, Ce; 0.6(1) ≤ x ≤ 3.2(1)]. These compounds were prepared by high temperature reactions of the elements in sealed Nb tubes. As revealed by powder and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, their crystal structures are of the cubic Zr6Zn23Si system (cF120, Fm3m, Z = 4), itself an interstitially filled variant of the Th6Mn23 structure type. Rather than distributing equally across the entire Cd23 sub‐structure, Mg displayed a tendency to accumulate at specific sites (most notably 4a); charge differences between sites within the sub‐structure, as revealed by computational methods, are the likeliest explanation.
Synthesis and Reactivity of Bis(6‐diphenylphosphinoacenaphth‐5‐yl)ditelluride
Authors: Giang Do Truong , Lork Enno , Beckmann Jens
Published: September 2018

The reduction of the previously known [(6‐Ph2P‐Ace‐5‐)Te]Cl with K‐selectride (K[sec‐Bu3BH]) provided the title compound (6‐Ph2P‐Ace‐5‐)2Te2 (1). The oxidation of 1 under aerobic conditions afforded the related (6‐Ph2P(O)‐Ace‐5‐)2Te2 (2). Alternatively, 2 was prepared by reduction of the previously known 6‐Ph2P(O)‐Ace‐5‐TeCl with K‐selectride. The reaction of 1 with [Cp(CO)2Fe]2 proceeded with cleavage of the Te–Te and Fe–Fe bonds with elimination of CO and gave rise to a racemic mixture of (6‐Ph2P‐Ace‐5‐)TeFe(CO)Cp (3), which contains pseudo‐tetrahedral Fe atoms in a chiral environment. Upon crystallization, the racemate most likely undergoes spontaneous resolution into a conglomerate of enantiopure crystals.
From Economic Growth to Wellbeing Economics
Authors: Dalziel Paul , Saunders Caroline , Saunders Joe
Published: September 2018

The primary purpose of economics is to contribute to enhanced wellbeing of persons. Economists have often assumed this is best achieved through high economic growth. Nevertheless, experience shows that the pursuit of growth for its own sake can result in policies that harm the wellbeing of large numbers of people. Threats of global climate change, as well as other environmental and social damage caused by current patterns of economic growth, intensify this concern. This first chapter argues for a new framework—wellbeing economics—to guide private and public sector efforts for expanding the capabilities of persons to lead the kinds of lives they value and have reason to value. The wellbeing economics framework focuses on seven types of capital investment at seven levels of human choice. This typology provides the structure for the book’s remaining chapters.
The Wellbeing Economics Framework
Authors: Dalziel Paul , Saunders Caroline , Saunders Joe
Published: September 2018

This chapter summarises key points in the wellbeing economics framework and illustrates how it can be used to guide decision-making. The first section lists the 24 propositions that emerged as key points in the analysis of the preceding eight chapters. The second section introduces a diagram that integrates inputs into wellbeing capabilities (7 types of capital stock) with outputs of wellbeing capabilities (11 wellbeing indicators developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development). The diagram is called the wellbeing fabric. The remainder of the chapter illustrates how the wellbeing fabric can be applied at different levels of human choices, before a brief conclusion.
On the dynamics of near-extremal black holes
Authors: Nayak Pranjal , Shukla Ashish , Soni Ronak M , Trivedi Sandip P. , Vishal V.
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We analyse the dynamics of near-extremal Reissner-Nordström black holes in asymptotically four-dimensional Anti de Sitter space (AdS4). We work in the spherically symmetric approximation and study the thermodynamics and the response to a probe scalar field. We find that the behaviour of the system, at low energies and to leading order in our approximations, is well described by the Jackiw-Teitelboim (JT) model of gravity. In fact, this behaviour can be understood from symmetry considerations and arises due to the breaking of time reparametrisation invariance. The JT model has been analysed in considerable detail recently and related to the behaviour of the SYK model. Our results indicate that features in these models which arise from symmetry considerations alone are more general and present quite universally in near-extremal black holes.
Five-dimensional vector multiplets in arbitrary signature
Authors: Gall L. , Mohaupt T.
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We start developing a formalism which allows to construct supersymmetric theories systematically across space-time signatures. Our construction uses a complex form of the supersymmetry algebra, which is obtained by doubling the spinor representation. This allows one to partially disentangle the Lorentz and R-symmetry group and generalizes symplectic Majorana spinors. For the case where the spinor representation is complex-irreducible, the R-symmetry only acts on an internal multiplicity space, and we show that the connected groups which occur are SO(2), SO0(1, 1), SU(2) and SU(1, 1).

As an application we construct the off-shell supersymmetry transformations and supersymmetric Lagrangians for five-dimensional vector multiplets in arbitrary signature (t,s). In this case the R-symmetry groups are SU(2) or SU(1, 1), depending on whether the spinor representation carries a quaternionic or para-quaternionic structure. In Euclidean signature the scalar and vector kinetic terms differ by a relative sign, which is consistent with previous results in the literature and shows that this sign flip is an inevitable consequence of the Euclidean supersymmetry algebra.
From underlying event sensitive to insensitive: factorization and resummation
Authors: Kang Daekyoung , Makris Yiannis , Mehen Thomas
Published: September 2018

Abstract

In this paper we study the transverse energy spectrum for the Drell-Yan process. The transverse energy is measured within the central region defined by a (pseudo-) rapidity cutoff. Soft-collinear effective theory (SCET) is used to factorize the cross section and resum large logarithms of the rapidity cutoff and ratios of widely separated scales that appear in the fixed order result. We develop a framework which can smoothly interpolate between various regions of the spectrum and eventually match onto the fixed order result. This way a reliable calculation is obtained for the contribution of the initial state radiation to the measurement. By comparing our result for Drell-Yan against Pythia we obtain a simple model that describes the contribution from multiparton interactions (MPI). A model with little or no dependence on the primary process gives results in agreement with the simulation. Based on this observation we propose MPI insensitive measurements. These observables are insensitive to the MPI contributions as implemented in Pythia and we compare against the purely perturbative result obtained with the standard collinear factorization.
Percutaneous ozone nucleolysis for lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Ezeldin Mohamed , Leonardi Marco , Princiotta Ciro , Dall’olio Massimo , Tharwat Mohammed , Zaki Mohammed , Abdel-Wanis Mohamed E. , Cirillo Luigi
Published: September 2018

Purpose

All percutaneous minimally invasive disc treatments are typically indicated to contained disc herniations. Our study’s aim is to evaluate prospectively the efficacy of ozone nucleolysis in the treatment of either contained or uncontained lumbar disc herniations.

Methods

Fifty-two patients, aged 27–87 years, with symptomatic herniated lumbar discs, without migration, sequestration, or severe degenerative disc changes, who failed conservative treatment, were included in our study. The patients underwent fluoroscopic-guided intradiscal oxygen-ozone mixture injection (5 ml) at a concentration of 27–30 μg/ml and periradicular injection of the same O2-O3 mixture (10 ml), steroid (1 ml), and local anesthetic (1 ml). Clinical outcomes were evaluated, based on the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and pain intensity (0–5) scale results, obtained initially and at 2- and 6-month controls. Our results were analyzed by ANOVA and chi-squared (χ
2) tests.

Results

Our initial results obtained at 2-month control were promising, indicating a significant decrease in pain disability and intensity in 74% (37) and 76% (38) of the patients respectively, and minimally increased to 76% (38) and 78% (39) at 6-month control (P < 0.001 and CI 99.9%). The mean preprocedure ODI and pain intensity scores were 35 ± 14.36 and 2.38 ± 0.90, respectively, which were reduced to 19.36 ± 13.12 and 1.04 ± 0.92 at 6-month control. Our failure had been mostly related to long symptoms duration of more than 1 year. No complications were recorded.

Conclusion

Ozone nucleolysis is a safe cost-effective minimally invasive technique for treatment of contained and uncontained lumbar disc herniations.