bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and characterization of Ni (II) complexes supported by phenoxy/naphthoxy‐imine ligands with pendant N‐ and O‐donor groups and their use in ethylene oligomerization
Authors: de Oliveira L.L. , da Silva S.M. , Casagrande A.C.A. , Stieler R. , Casagrande O.L.
Published: May 2018

A series of new Ni(II) complexes of general formula Ni{ZNO} Br (2a‐i) (ZNO = phenoxy/naphthoxy‐imine with pendant N‐ and O‐donor groups) were prepared and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, ESI‐HRMS, and by X‐ray crystallography for 2e. In the solid state, 2e features a monomeric structure with κ3 coordination of the monoanionic naphthoxy‐imine‐quinoline ligand onto the nickel center. Upon activation with MAO, both classes of nickel catalysts were able to produce selectively 1‐butene (81.5–92.1 wt%) with turnover frequencies (TOFs) varying from 3,100 to 24,300 mol(C2H4) mol (Ni)−1 h−1. Nickel precatalysts bearing phenoxy‐imine ligands were much more active than its naphthoxy analogous under the same conditions.

The use of a mixture of cocatalysts (MAO/TMA or MAO/TiBA) resulted in poor activities; however the presence of TiBA in the milieu led to a significant improvement on selectivity for 1‐hexene (25.5 wt%). Under optimized conditions ([Ni] = 10 μmol, 30 °C, oligomerization time = 5 min, 20 bar ethylene, [Al]/[Ni] = 600), precatalyst 2c led to TOF = 59,900 mol(C2H4) mol(Ni)−1 h−1 and selectivity for 1‐butene of 89.5 wt%.
Photo‐mediated metal free atom transfer radical polymerization of acrylamide in water
Authors: Liu Lichao , Yi Yongsub
Published: May 2018

Photo‐mediated metal free atom transfer radical polymerization of acrylamide was conducted at 25 °C in water under visible light irradiation with water soluble 2‐hydroxy‐3‐(4‐benzoylphenoxy)‐N,N,N‐trimethyl‐1‐propaminium chloride (HBTPC) as photoredox catalyst and 2‐hydroxyethyl 2‐bromoisobutyrate as alkyl halide. The polymerization followed first‐order reaction kinetics. The living character of photo‐mediated atom transfer radical polymerization of acrylamide was verified by the linear development of the polymer number average molar mass (Mn,GPC) with monomer conversion and narrow molecular weight distributions (Đ). The effects of acrylamide concentration, light intensity, amount of HBTPC, and tris(2‐dimethylaminoethyl)amine on polymerization were investigated. Increasing monomer concentration led to a higher Mn,GPC values with narrow Đ. The polymerization rate increased with increasing the amount of monomer, light intensity, HBTPC and tris(2‐dimethylaminoethyl)amine. The polymerization was monitored by the periodic light on/off. The structure of polyacrylamide was analyzed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer and gel permeation chromatography. Successful chain extension experiments show the controlled nature of the polymerization. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46567.
Very‐high‐resolution electrical resistivity imaging of buried foundations of a Roman villa near Nonnweiler, Germany
Authors: Al‐Saadi Osamah Saad , Schmidt Volkmar , Becken Michael , Fritsch Thomas
Published: May 2018

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) methods have been increasingly used in various shallow depth archaeological prospections in the last few decades. These non‐invasive techniques can save time, costs, and efforts in archaeological prospection and yield detailed images of subsurface anomalies. We present the results of quasi‐three‐dimensional (3D) ERT measurements in an area of a presumed Roman construction, using a dense electrode network of parallel and orthogonal profiles in dipole–dipole configuration. A roll‐along technique has been utilized to cover a large part of the archaeological site with a 25 cm electrode and profile spacing, respectively. We have designed a new field procedure, which used an electrode array fixed in a frame. This facilitated a very efficient field operation, and overall a total of 9648 electrode positions were occupied. The 3D ERT inversion results clearly characterize the main structures of the Roman foundations. We compared our high‐resolution 3D electrical resistivity model with findings from archaeological excavations, which have been done in some parts of the surveyed area. The ERT result coincide well with the excavation results, i.e. the location as well as the vertical and horizontal extensions of the structures could be precisely imaged. The ERT results successfully images most parts of the walls, pits and also smaller internal structures of the Roman building; moreover, excavation ditches that had been refilled prior to the ERT survey are delineated as resistivity heterogeneities as well.
A finite element elasticity programming in Mathematica software
Authors: Cecílio Diogo L. , dos Santos Thiago D.
Published: May 2018

Modern software's allow computers to perform symbolic calculations in addition to simple numerical computations for which they were originally designed. This fact opens new possibilities in numerical simulation. In this paper a finite element implementation using the commercial software Wolfram Mathematica is used to solve a plane stress elasticity problem. The code adaptability from the provided examples to more challenging problems can easily be performed using the present code. Numerical examples with post‐processing illustrates the new tool and its flexibility. It has been proven in this study the feasibility of Wolfram Mathematica in learning and programming finite element methods for the solution of two‐dimensional problems in elasticity.
Xenobiotic Nucleic Acid (XNA) Synthesis by Phi29 DNA Polymerase
Authors: Torres Leticia L. , Pinheiro Vitor B.
Published: May 2018

Phi29 DNA polymerase (DNAP) is the replicative enzyme of the Bacillus subtilis bacteriophage Phi29. Its extraordinary processivity and its ability to perform isothermal amplification of DNA are central to many molecular biology applications, including high‐sensitivity detection and large‐scale production of DNA. We present here Phi29 DNAP as an efficient catalyst for the production of various artificial nucleic acids (XNAs) carrying backbone modifications such as 1,5‐anhydrohexitol nucleic acid (HNA), 2′‐deoxy‐2′‐fluoro‐arabinonucleic acid (FANA), and 2′‐fluoro‐2′‐deoxyribonucleic acid (2′‐fluoro‐DNA). A full protocol for the synthesis of HNA polymers by an exonuclease‐deficient variant (D12A) of Phi29 DNAP plus a detailed guide for the design and test of novel XNA synthetase reactions performed by Phi29 DNAP are provided. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Use of Axenic Culture Tools to Study Coxiella burnetii
Authors: Sanchez Savannah E. , Vallejo‐Esquerra Eduardo , Omsland Anders
Published: May 2018

Coxiella burnetii is a highly infectious obligate intracellular bacterium and the etiological agent of the zoonosis Query (Q) fever. This Gram‐negative gamma‐proteobacterium has adapted to replicate within a specialized compartment in mammalian phagocytic cells, known as the Coxiella‐containing vacuole (CCV). Knowledge of critical characteristics of the CCV microenvironment (e.g., luminal pH), analysis of the C. burnetii genome sequence, and strategic metabolic profiling have provided the basis for determining the physicochemical and nutritional conditions necessary to support axenic replication of C. burnetii. In this unit, the media currently utilized for axenic culture of C. burnetii are described, with emphasis on application. To aid in experimental reproducibility and interpretation of results, considerations and limitations are discussed. Lastly, expected results for C. burnetii axenic growth under control conditions are provided as a reference. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Oscillating ions under Inertial Electrostatic Confinement (IEC) based on nanosecond vacuum discharge
Authors: Kurilenkov Yu.K. , Tarakanov V.P. , Gus'kov S.Yu. , Oginov A.V. , Karpukhin V.T.
Published: May 2018

Neutrons from DD fusion in the interelectrode space of a table‐top, low‐energy, nanosecond vacuum discharge with a deuterium‐loaded Pd anode have been demonstrated earlier. In addition, the principal role of a virtual cathode and the corresponding deep potential well formed in the interelectrode space are recognized under detailed particle‐in‐cell simulations of the discharge experimental conditions using a fully electrodynamic code. PIC modelling has allowed the identification of the scheme of small‐scale experiments with a rather old branch of plasma physics as the inertial electrostatic confinement fusion. The goal of this work is to present and discuss in detail the available experimental results on deuteron oscillations followed by pulsating DD neutron yield in this scheme based on nanosecond vacuum discharge. PIC simulations of some experimental regimes of pulsating neutron yield are also shown and discussed, as well as comparisons with an available similar scheme of periodical oscillating plasmas spheres for fusion.
Outcomes of hyperglycemia in patients with and without diabetes hospitalized for infectious diseases
Authors: Akirov Amit , Diker‐Cohen Talia , Masri‐Iraqi Hiba , Duskin‐Bitan Hadar , Shimon Ilan , Gorshtein Alexander
Published: May 2018

Objective

To examine the prognostic implications of diabetes mellitus (DM) and the importance of glycemic control during hospitalization for infectious diseases.

Methods

Historical prospectively collected data of patients hospitalized between 2011 and 2013. Infection‐related hospitalizations were classified according to site of infection. Median follow‐up was 4.5 years. Outcome measures included in‐hospital and end‐of‐follow‐up mortality.

Results

The cohort included 8051 patients (50% female, mean age ± SD, 68 ± 20 years) with a primary diagnosis of an infectious disease. Of these, 2363 patients (29%) had type 2 DM. The most common infectious sites included respiratory tract (n = 3285), genitourinary tract (n = 1804), skin and soft tissue (n = 934) and gastrointestinal tract (n = 571). There was no difference in admission rates of patients with and without DM according to the site of infection, except for skin and soft tissue infection which were more common among patients with DM (16% vs 10%). In‐hospital mortality risk was greater in patients with DM (aOR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.1‐1.7). In the entire cohort, adjusted mortality risk (aHR, 95% CI) at the end‐of‐follow‐up was greater among patients with DM (1.2, 1.1‐1.4), with increased mortality risk following hospitalization for respiratory (1.1, 1.0‐1.4) and skin and soft tissue infections (1.7, 1.3‐2.3). In‐hospital and end‐of‐follow‐up mortality risk were highest among patients with and without DM with median glucose >180 mg/dL during hospitalization.

Conclusions

In patients hospitalized for infectious diseases, DM is associated with increased long‐term mortality risk, specifically following hospitalization for respiratory and skin and soft tissue infections. Poor glycemic control during hospitalization is associated with increased long‐term mortality.
Tri‐Orthogonal Scaffolds for the Solid‐Phase Synthesis of Peptides
Authors: Pícha Jan , Fabre Benjamin , Buděšínský Miloš , Hajduch Jan , Abdellaoui Mehdi , Jiráček Jiří
Published: May 2018

Multi‐orthogonal scaffolds can be useful for the attachment of several different compounds to the same central skeleton. Such compounds can find applications in the development of protein mimics because of their potential to mimic several distant epitopes in the protein structure. Three new tri‐orthogonal variants of a previously reported scaffold have been developed that are suitable for the solid‐phase synthesis of three different peptides on the same skeleton. Different chemical moieties were combined for the phased attachment of amino acids to the scaffolds: Fmoc‐ or Alloc‐protected amine, free or TIPS‐protected alkyne or azido group. Several model compounds were prepared, characterized, and compared for their suitability as new scaffolds for peptide synthesis. All three scaffolds provided peptides with satisfactory yields and purities, making them suitable for a synthesis of libraries of compounds.
High Mobility Group Box‐1 Drives Fibrosis Progression Signaling via the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products in Mice
Authors: Ge Xiaodong , Arriazu Elena , Magdaleno Fernando , Antoine Daniel J. , dela Cruz Rouchelle , Theise Neil , Nieto Natalia
Published: May 2018

High‐mobility group box‐1 (HMGB1) is a damage‐associated molecular pattern (DAMP) increased in response to liver injury. Because HMGB1 is a ligand for the receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE), we hypothesized that induction of HMGB1 could participate in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis though RAGE cell‐specific signaling mechanisms. Liver HMGB1 protein expression correlated with fibrosis stage in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), or alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH). Hepatic HMGB1 protein expression and secretion increased in five mouse models of liver fibrosis attributed to drug‐induced liver injury (DILI), cholestasis, ASH, or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). HMGB1 was up‐regulated and secreted mostly by hepatocytes and Kupffer cells (KCs) following CCl4 treatment. Neutralization of HMGB1 protected, whereas injection of recombinant HMGB1 promoted liver fibrosis. Hmgb1 ablation in hepatocytes (Hmgb1
ΔHep) or in myeloid cells (Hmgb1
ΔMye) partially protected, whereas ablation in both (Hmgb1
ΔHepΔMye) prevented liver fibrosis in vivo. Coculture with hepatocytes or KCs from CCl4‐injected wild‐type (WT) mice up‐regulated Collagen type I production by hepatic stellate cells (HSCs); yet, coculture with hepatocytes from CCl4‐injected Hmgb1
ΔHep or with KCs from CCl4‐injected Hmgb1
ΔMye mice partially blunted this effect. Rage ablation in HSCs (Rage
ΔHSC) and RAGE neutralization prevented liver fibrosis. Last, we identified that HMGB1 stimulated HSC migration and signaled through RAGE to up‐regulate Collagen type I expression by activating the phosphorylated mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (pMEK)1/2, phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (pERK)1/2 and pcJun signaling pathway. Conclusion: Hepatocyte and KC‐derived HMGB1 participates in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis by signaling through RAGE in HSCs to activate the pMEK1/2, pERK1/2 and pcJun pathway and increase Collagen type I deposition.
Effects of δ‐tocotrienol on ochratoxin A—induced nephrotoxicity in rats
Authors: Damiano Sara , Navas Luigi , Lombari Patrizia , Montagnaro Serena , Forte Iris M. , Giordano Antonio , Florio Salvatore , Ciarcia Roberto
Published: May 2018

Ochratoxin A (OTA), is a natural contaminant of the food chain worldwide involved in the development of different type of cancers in animals and humans. Several studies suggested that oxidative damage might contribute to increase the cytotoxicity and carcinogenicity capabilities of OTA. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible protective effect of δ‐tocotrienol (Delta), a natural form of vitamin E, against OTA‐induced nephrotoxicity. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were treated with OTA and/or Delta by gavage for 14 days. Our results shown that OTA treatment induced the increase of reactive oxigen species production correlated to a strong reduction of Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) and absoluted fluid reabsorption (Jv) with conseguent significant increase in blood pressure. Consistent, we noted in the kidney of rats treated with OTA, an increase in malondialdheyde and dihydroethidium production and a reduction of the activity of the catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. Conversly, in the rat group subjected to the concomitant treatment OTA plus Delta, we observed the restored effect, compared the OTA treatment group, on blood pressure, GFR, Jv, and all activities of renal antioxidant enzymes. Finally, as far as concern the tissue damage induced by OTA and measured evaluating fibronectin protein levels, we observed that in OTA plus Delta group this effect is not restored. Our findings releval that a mechanism underlying the renal toxicity induced by OTA is the oxidative stress and provide a new rationale to use a Delta in order to protect, at least in part, against OTA‐induced nephrotoxicity.
Influence of polypropylene topological structure evolution during melt branching reactive processing on its melt performances
Authors: Yang Le , Jiang Tuanhui , Gong Wei , He Li , Luo Zhu , Zhang Chun
Published: May 2018

Gel‐free long‐chain‐branched polypropylene (LCBPP) was prepared by the melt radical branching reaction in the presence of peroxide initiator 2,5‐dimethyl‐2,5‐di(tert‐butylperoxy) hexane peroxide, zinc dimethyldithiocarbamate, and trimethylolpropane triacrylate in a torque rheometer. It could be inferred that recombination between PP chains via radical coupled reaction took place and trimethylolpropane triacrylate was grafted onto PP backbone by the torque curves and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy results. The presence of long chain branches (LCB) for modified PP was verified by the gel permeation chromatography measurements and vGP plots. On the other hand, it was found that the topological structure of PP chains transformed from linear form to a long star‐like shape during the reaction progress, and the topological structure was directly determined by the radical reaction time. The topological structure of PP would further impact its melt behaviour. After complete melting of raw PP, “sparse and long” LCBPP firstly generated which possessed high melt strength owing to the increasing entanglement of long branching chains. And at the time corresponding to the summit of reaction peak on the torque curve, the modified LCBPP possess the highest melt strength owing to its long star topological structure. While as reaction time was prolonged, severe degradation of the LCBPPs would take place under too long mixing time and “dense and short” branches generated due to the residual radicals, with a sharp decline in melt strength.
Durable, efficient, and flexible piezoelectric nanogenerator from electrospun PANi/HNT/PVDF blend nanocomposite
Authors: Khalifa Mohammed , Mahendran Arunjunairaj , Anandhan Srinivasan
Published: May 2018

Currently, there is considerable research focus on portable, lightweight, shock‐resistant, and inexpensive wearable devices that are ideally powered by harvesting abundant mechanical or vibration energy, making battery or related wiring superfluous. In this study, piezoelectric nanogenerator was electrospun from PANi (polyaniline)/HNT (halloysite nanotube)/PVDF (poly[vinylidene fluoride]) blend nanocomposite. Polymorphism, crystallinity and morphology of the nanogenerator were explored in detail. HNT and PANi acted as a nucleating agent and conductive filler, respectively in PVDF; their synergism helps improve the piezoelectric performance of PVDF. The piezoelectric performance of the nanogenerator patch was studied under various external mechanical stresses, such as pressure, tapping, and impact. A maximum voltage output of approximately 7.2 V was generated by the nanogenerator under impact. The nanogenerator patch attached to human arm exhibited not only excellent piezoelectric response during arm movements, but, also proved to be flexible, highly sensitive and durable. This nanogenerator could possibly be used in wearable piezoelectric energy conversion application for self‐powered devices. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1663–1675, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Correlation between compounding sequence and the properties of glass fiber‐Reinforced nylon‐6,6 composite
Authors: Mun Hyung Jin , Cha Sang Hoon , Choi Pil Sung , Kim Jae Ik , Ryu Sung Hun
Published: May 2018

The effects of the compounding sequence and addition of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (PP‐g‐MAH) as a sizing agent on the properties of glass fiber (GF)/nylon‐6,6 composite were investigated. Mechanical properties of tensile, impact, and flexural strength were measured. The fractured surface was analyzed to compare the variation of interfacial characteristics by different compounding sequences and addition of a sizing agent. It was found that mechanical and rheological properties of a composite are strongly affected by the compounding sequence and the addition of a sizing agent. In general, the addition of PP‐g‐MAH results in lowering the mechanical properties compared to GF/nylon‐6,6, while proper compounding sequence results in improved mechanical properties. Lowering melt viscosity of composites is achieved by addition of sizing agent and varied depending on the compounding sequence. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:155–161, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Thermal‐to‐Electrical Energy Conversion Cell with Sol–Gel‐Derived TiSn‐Organic Composite Operated without Temperature Difference
Authors: Fukuda Takeshi , Takahira Kazuya , Masuzawa Sosuke , Shirai Sota
Published: May 2018

The authors demonstrate thermally stimulated current densities exceeding 130 µAcm−2 at an operation temperature of 60 °C, from a TiSn‐organic composite layer sandwiched between Al and Cu electrodes. This phenomenon does not require a temperature difference for operation. Moreover, the device structure is simple. These unique characteristics will be useful for applications in practical energy‐harvesting devices in the near future. By optimizing the sintering temperature of the sol–gel process used for synthesizing the TiSn‐organic composite, the authors find that the highest current density could be achieved at 300 °C. The X‐ray photoelectron and Fourier transform infrared spectra indicate that the interaction between Sn and the acetyl group caused efficient thermally stimulated current generation. Sintering at temperatures above 450 °C removes the acetyl group from the TiSn‐organic composite, which grades the thermal‐to‐electrical conversion characteristics. The important result of this research is that thermally stimulated current with high current density can be obtained using a TiSn‐organic composite.
Knowledge diversity and coordination: The effect of intrafirm inventor task networks on absorption speed
Authors: Moreira Solon , Markus Arjan , Laursen Keld
Published: May 2018

Research Summary: We combine the absorptive capacity and social network theory approaches to predict how intrafirm “whole” network characteristics affect the firm's speed of absorption of external knowledge to produce inventions. We start from the widely accepted view that distant, externally‐developed knowledge is difficult to absorb into the focal firm's own knowledge production. We suggest that high levels of intrafirm inventor task network diversity and task network density are essential for a diversity of knowledge inputs and coordinated actions regarding knowledge transfer, which in turn, reduces problems related to the absorption of knowledge—especially in the case of knowledge that is distant from the focal firm. The results of an event history study of 113 pharmaceutical firms that engaged in technology in‐licensing from 1986 to 2003 provide general support for our hypotheses.

Managerial Summary: Firms keen to keep up with an uncertain and ever‐changing industry environment, can benefit from the speedy introduction of inventions. We examine how firms absorb licensed‐in technologies to nurture the rapid development of own related inventions. We show that a firm's absorption speed depends on the characteristics of the internal collaboration networks among the firm's inventor employees. More specifically, technologically diverse and well‐connected inventor networks improve the firm's ability to absorb external technologies quickly. This applies especially to externally acquired technologies that are unfamiliar to the firm. Depending on the distance of the acquired technology from the focal firm combined with speed‐inducing inventor network characteristics, our estimates suggest that firms can reduce the time needed for absorption by several months.
A critical political ecology of human dimensions of climate change: Epistemology, ontology, and ethics
Authors: Goldman Mara J. , Turner Matthew D. , Daly Meaghan
Published: May 2018

To understand the broader epistemological and ontological politics of human dimensions of climate change, this review adopts a political ecology approach, informed by Science and Technology Studies concepts and research on multiple ontologies. We are particularly interested in assessing critical approaches to climate change knowledge as related to adaptation policies. The review addresses three specific areas where more critical engagement could help move debates about knowledge politics in human dimensions research forward in fruitful ways: first, discourse and a focus on the language used to talk about and reflect on human dimensions of climate change; second, co‐production and the troubling proliferation of depoliticized “instrumental” co‐productions of knowledge for adaptation; and third, the emerging literature on multiple ontologies exposing multiple enactments of climate change processes. We review each of these areas of literature, highlighting where more direct engagement with epistemological, ontological, and ethical questions is underway. In doing so, we subject the knowledge and practices that underlie dominant understandings of climate change to critical political ecology scrutiny.

This article is categorized under:

Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Sociology/Anthropology of Climate Knowledge
Deep learning for remote sensing image classification: A survey
Authors: Li Ying , Zhang Haokui , Xue Xizhe , Jiang Yenan , Shen Qiang
Published: May 2018

Remote sensing (RS) image classification plays an important role in the earth observation technology using RS data, having been widely exploited in both military and civil fields. However, due to the characteristics of RS data such as high dimensionality and relatively small amounts of labeled samples available, performing RS image classification faces great scientific and practical challenges. In recent years, as new deep learning (DL) techniques emerge, approaches to RS image classification with DL have achieved significant breakthroughs, offering novel opportunities for the research and development of RS image classification. In this paper, a brief overview of typical DL models is presented first. This is followed by a systematic review of pixel‐wise and scene‐wise RS image classification approaches that are based on the use of DL. A comparative analysis regarding the performances of typical DL‐based RS methods is also provided. Finally, the challenges and potential directions for further research are discussed.

This article is categorized under:

Application Areas > Science and Technology

Technologies > Classification
Hyperbolic ends with particles and grafting on singular surfaces
Authors: Chen Qiyu , Schlenker Jean-Marc
Published: May 2018

We prove that any 3-dimensional hyperbolic end with particles (cone singularities along infinite curves of angles less than
π
) admits a unique foliation by constant Gauss curvature surfaces. Using a form of duality between hyperbolic ends with particles and convex globally hyperbolic maximal (GHM) de Sitter spacetime with particles, it follows that any 3-dimensional convex GHM de Sitter spacetime with particles also admits a unique foliation by constant Gauss curvature surfaces. We prove that the grafting map from the product of Teichmüller space with the space of measured laminations to the space of complex projective structures is a homeomorphism for surfaces with cone singularities of angles less than
π
, as well as an analogue when grafting is replaced by “smooth grafting”.
Fighting Human Smuggling or Criminalizing Refugees? Regimes of Justification in and around R v Appulonappa
Authors: Moffette David , Aksin Nevena
Published: May 2018

Following the arrival of the MVOcean Ladyin 2009, four men were charged with human smuggling under s. 117 of theImmigration and Refugee Protection Actfor having helped Sri Lankan asylum seekers reach Canada. Section 117 made it a criminal offence to aid and abet the unauthorized entry of asylum seekers, including when this was done for humanitarian reasons, to help family members, or as a matter of mutual aid. The case made its way to the Supreme Court and, in 2015, the court ruled inR v Appulonappathat s. 117 was too broad, potentially criminalizing humanitarian workers and family members who help transport asylum seekers, and should be interpreted in a strict manner. This article draws from pragmatic sociology to study the regimes of justification mobilized by various actors involved in, and around,R v Appulonappabetween 2009 and 2015. It focuses on two sites of contestation that crystalized around divergent conceptions of fairness and safety, discussing how competing regimes of justification were used to advance stakeholder’s positions.
Atmospheric Rivers Carry Nonmonsoon Extreme Precipitation Into Nepal
Authors: Thapa Kritika , Endreny Theodore A. , Ferguson Craig R.
Published: May 2018

Atmospheric rivers (ARs) are concentrated bands of water vapor that can cause extreme precipitation and severe flooding. Fortunately, due to their 1,500+ km spatial extent, they may also be forecasted days in advance. The goals of this study were to investigate the seasonal climatology of ARs in the Himalayan region of Nepal and to determine the role of ARs in extreme precipitation events. Using the ERA‐Interim atmospheric reanalysis, we applied a standard integrated vapor transport AR detection approach for the 35‐year period from 1979 to 2013. We detected 433 ARs, or approximately 12 ARs yearly. Along our six (0.75°) grid detection transect, ARs explain 35% of grid annual maximum daily precipitation events and 70% of grid nonmonsoon (October–May) maximum daily precipitation events. In 89% and 71% of years, at least one of the six detection grids experienced an AR‐related nonmonsoon maximum or annual maximum event, respectively. Overall, ARs explain 78% of daily precipitation totals exceeding 33 mm in the nonmonsoon season in comparison to 18% if the entire year is considered. As we show, ARs constitute a valuable new lens through which extreme precipitation in the region may be understood and forecasted. However, follow‐on integrated vapor transport analyses that more closely investigate the interaction between ARs and their synoptic‐scale environment are needed to better differentiate January and February ARs from Western Disturbances and June–September ARs from the Indian monsoon.
Resilience, Decision‐making, and Environmental Water Releases
Authors: Chu Long , Grafton R. Quentin , Stewardson Michael
Published: May 2018

Tensions between delivering water for human uses versus environmental benefits are increasing in many arid and semiarid regions, potentially causing irreversible environmental consequences. The issue of how to balance these competing uses of water is of fundamental importance, especially with projected increases in the variability of water resources due to climate change. In response, a stochastic resilience optimization model is developed to assist decision‐makers to optimally determine water releases from storages for environmental purposes and to measure the resilience of a system for given risk tolerances. The model, with sensitivity analyses, provides a valuable tool for water planners to minimize the risk of irreversible consequences and to optimize for resilience taking into account weather uncertainty, existing environmental conditions, and water storage levels. A calibration of the model to the Murray‐Darling Basin and also the Goulburn‐Broken catchment region in Australia highlights its potential to improve decision‐making at multiple spatial scales and over time.
Analysis of the Radiation Hazard Observed by RAD on the Surface of Mars During the September 2017 Solar Particle Event
Authors: Zeitlin C. , Hassler D. M. , Guo J. , Ehresmann B. , Wimmer‐Schweingruber R. F. , Rafkin S. C. R. , Freiherr von Forstner J. L. , Lohf H. , Berger T. , Matthiae D. , Reitz G.
Published: May 2018

We report dosimetric quantities measured by the Mars Science Laboratory Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD) on the surface of Mars during the 10–12 September 2017 solar particle event. Despite 23 g/cm2 of CO2 shielding provided by the atmosphere above RAD, dose rates rose above background galactic cosmic ray levels by factors of 2 to 3 over the course of several hours and leveled off at sustained peak rates for about 12 hr before declining over the following 36 hr. As the solar particle event flux was gradually declining, a shock front reached Mars and caused a sudden drop of about 15% in instantaneous dose rates. No solar particles followed the shock arrival, and the magnetic shielding of galactic cosmic rays by the shock reduced their intensity to levels below those seen before the start of the event. This event is the largest seen to date by RAD on Mars.
Characterization of a newly isolated phage infecting pathogenic Escherichia coli and analysis of its mosaic structural genes
Authors: Peng Qin , Yuan Yihui
Published: May 2018

The outbreak of multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria made the discovery of novel control strategies necessary. Phages have regained attention for their specific lytic activity against pathogenic bacterium. A newly isolated phage infecting the clinical Escherichia coli isolates, including several multidrug-resistant strains, was isolated, and this phage showed high control effects against the tested pathogenic E. coli strains. Host range analysis revealed that although the phage exhibited broad lytic spectrum against the tested E. coli strains, it could not lyse strains from the other species. Comparative genomic analysis showed that phages had undergone at least three genome recombination events during the evolutionary process at the position of the three phage tail genes, which was reported to be associated with the host range determination of the phage. The recombinant tail proteins contained functional domains that were highly similar with genes of the Salmonella phage and genes of Pseudomonas and Neisseria. The findings of this study not only provide resources for developing phage therapy against E. coli, but also showed the highly variable genome structure of the phage.
Role of Kupffer cells in the progression of CRC liver metastases after the first stage of ALPPS
Authors: García-Pérez Rocio , Ferrer Fábrega Joana , Varona-Bosque Aranzazu , Martínez Carlos Manuel , Revilla-Nuin Beatriz , Cabellos Laia , Pena Romina , Vilana Ramón , Gonzalez-Abós Carolina , García-Valdecasas Juan Carlos , Fuster Obregón José
Published: May 2018

Associated liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) has been suggested as a potential therapy for extensive bilobar liver tumors, although in some circumstances this technique may induce tumor progression, a fact still not well studied. Our aim was to study tumor hepatic progression induced by the first step of ALPPS in a WAG/Rij rat syngenic model of metastatic colorectal carcinoma by subcapsular CC531 cell line inoculation. ALPPS induced: tumor progression on deportalized lobe and metastases; expression of hepatic vasculogenic factors (HIF1-α and VEGF); and a dramatic increase of Kupffer cells (KCs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Interestingly, KCs expressed COX-2 (M1 polarization), while TAMs expressed mainly arginase-1 (M2 polarization). ALPPS also induced a decrease of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and an increase of intrahepatic T lymphocytes. Thus, ALPPS technique seems to induce a hypoxic environment, which enhances hepatic HIF1-α and VEGF expression and may promote KCs and TAMs polarization. Consequently, the regenerative stimulus seems to be driven by a pro-inflammatory and hypoxic environment, in which M1 intrahepatic macrophages expressing COX-2 and T-Lymphocytes play a key role, facts which may be related with the tumor progression observed.
Treatment of T1D via optimized expansion of antigen-specific Tregs induced by IL-2/anti-IL-2 monoclonal antibody complexes and peptide/MHC tetramers
Authors: Izquierdo Cristina , Ortiz Angela Zarama , Presa Maximiliano , Malo Sara , Montoya Anna , Garabatos Nahir , Mora Conchi , Verdaguer Joan , Stratmann Thomas
Published: May 2018

Type 1 diabetes can be overcome by regulatory T cells (Treg) in NOD mice yet an efficient method to generate and maintain antigen-specific Treg is difficult to come by. Here, we devised a combination therapy of peptide/MHC tetramers and IL-2/anti-IL-2 monoclonal antibody complexes to generate antigen-specific Treg and maintain them over extended time periods. We first optimized treatment protocols conceived to obtain an improved islet-specific Treg/effector T cell ratio that led to thein vivoexpansion and activation of these Treg as well as to an improved suppressor function. Optimized protocols were applied to treatment for testing diabetes prevention in NOD mice as well as in an accelerated T cell transfer model of T1D. The combined treatment led to robust protection against diabetes, and in the NOD model, to a close to complete prevention of insulitis. Treatment was accompanied with increased secretion of IL-10, detectable in total splenocytes and in Foxp3−CD4 T cells. Our data suggest that a dual protection mechanism takes place by the collaboration of Foxp3+and Foxp3−regulatory cells. We conclude that antigen-specific Treg are an important target to improve current clinical interventions against this disease.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Nano-Polyplex system of GNRs-PDMAEA-pDNA: An Inert Self-Catalyzed Degradable Carrier for Facile Gene Delivery
Authors: Dinari Ali , Moghadam Tahereh Tohidi , Abdollahi Mahdi , Sadeghizadeh Majid
Published: May 2018

Engineering molecules at nano-scale is a promising approach in targeting and curing diseases. In this research, fabricated new hybrid system called nano-polyplex represents an example of the molecular engineering at nano-scale. Polymer of PDMAEAs with four different molecular weights were synthesized using the RAFT method, attached onto the gold nano-rod surface, which modified and produced a safe novel system with an average size less than 100 nm. The hybrid system was characterized by ultra violet-visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS), 1H NMR, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Zeta potential analyzer and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Features of higher transfection and lower toxicity compared to the previously reported polyplex of PDMAEA, as well as the gold standard PEI, have been shown in all molecular weights and defined N/P ratios (10–200). The ideal physicochemical properties for escaping from the cell barriers, covering the large volume of genetic material (pDNA) and high efficiency of loading polyplexes on GNRs’ surface make it an ideal carrier. The results of this effort pave way in designing a new generation of nanoparticle-based delivery systems for nucleic acid therapy and gene editing.
Evolutionary adaptation of an RNA bacteriophage to the simultaneous increase in the within-host and extracellular temperatures
Authors: Lázaro Ester , Arribas María , Cabanillas Laura , Román Ismael , Acosta Esther
Published: May 2018

Bacteriophages are the most numerous biological entities on Earth. They are on the basis of most ecosystems, regulating the diversity and abundance of bacterial populations and contributing to the nutrient and energy cycles. Bacteriophages have two well differentiated phases in their life cycle, one extracellular, in which they behave as inert particles, and other one inside their hosts, where they replicate to give rise to a progeny. In both phases they are exposed to environmental conditions that often act as selective pressures that limit both their survival in the environment and their ability to replicate, two fitness traits that frequently cannot be optimised simultaneously. In this study we have analysed the evolutionary ability of an RNA bacteriophage, the bacteriophage Qβ, when it is confronted with a temperature increase that affects both the extracellular and the intracellular media. Our results show that Qβ can optimise its survivability when exposed to short-term high temperature extracellular heat shocks, as well as its replicative ability at higher-than-optimal temperature. Mutations responsible for simultaneous adaptation were the same as those selected when adaptation to each condition proceeded separately, showing the absence of important trade-offs between survival and reproduction in this virus.
Non-blocking modulation contributes to sodium channel inhibition by a covalently attached photoreactive riluzole analog
Authors: Lukacs Peter , Földi Mátyás C. , Valánszki Luca , Casanova Emilio , Biri-Kovács Beáta , Nyitray László , Málnási-Csizmadia András , Mike Arpad
Published: May 2018

Sodium channel inhibitor drugs decrease pathological hyperactivity in various diseases including pain syndromes, myotonia, arrhythmias, nerve injuries and epilepsies. Inhibiting pathological but not physiological activity, however, is a major challenge in drug development. Sodium channel inhibitors exert their effects by a dual action: they obstruct ion flow (“block”), and they alter the energetics of channel opening and closing (“modulation”). Ideal drugs would be modulators without blocking effect, because modulation is inherently activity-dependent, therefore selective for pathological hyperactivity. Can block and modulation be separated? It has been difficult to tell, because the effect of modulation is obscured by conformation-dependent association/dissociation of the drug. To eliminate dynamic association/dissociation, we used a photoreactive riluzole analog which could be covalently bound to the channel; and found, unexpectedly, that drug-bound channels could still conduct ions, although with modulated gating. The finding that non-blocking modulation is possible, may open a novel avenue for drug development because non-blocking modulators could be more specific in treating hyperactivity-linked diseases.
An in vitro method to keep human aortic tissue sections functionally and structurally intact
Authors: Meekel Jorn P. , Groeneveld Menno E. , Bogunovic Natalija , Keekstra Niels , Musters René J. P. , Zandieh-Doulabi Behrouz , Pals Gerard , Micha Dimitra , Niessen Hans W. M. , Wiersema Arno M. , Kievit Jur K. , Hoksbergen Arjan W. J. , Wisselink Willem , Blankensteijn Jan D. , Yeung Kak K.
Published: May 2018

The pathophysiology of aortic aneurysms (AA) is far from being understood. One reason for this lack of understanding is basic research being constrained to fixated cells or isolated cell cultures, by which cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix communications are missed. We present a new, in vitro method for extended preservation of aortic wall sections to study pathophysiological processes. Intraoperatively harvested, live aortic specimens were cut into 150 μm sections and cultured. Viability was quantified up to 92 days using immunofluorescence. Cell types were characterized using immunostaining. After 14 days, individual cells of enzymatically digested tissues were examined for cell type and viability. Analysis of AA sections (N = 8) showed a viability of 40% at 7 days and smooth muscle cells, leukocytes, and macrophages were observed. Protocol optimization (N = 4) showed higher stable viability at day 62 and proliferation of new cells at day 92. Digested tissues showed different cell types and a viability up to 75% at day 14. Aortic tissue viability can be preserved until at least 62 days after harvesting. Cultured tissues can be digested into viable single cells for additional techniques. Present protocol provides an appropriate ex vivo setting to discover and study pathways and mechanisms in cultured human aneurysmal aortic tissue.
Investigating mixing and emptying for aqueous liquid content from the stomach using a coupled biomechanical-SPH model
Authors: Harrison Simon M. , Cleary Paul W. , Sinnott Matthew D.
Published: May 2018

Computational modelling of gastric emptying reveals the complex flow patterns that occur. The resulting mixing is substantial in the inferior stomach but much lower near the fluid's top surface.
Choice of hydrogen bonds or halogen bonds by 2-halogenated 5-morpholinomethylphenyl triazolo[1,5-a]pyridine
Authors: Li Changfu , Chai Yingying , Zhou Xinglong , Shen Zhen , Ma Beibei , Chen Bojiang , Huang Ridong , Chen Hai , Li Weimin , He Yang
Published: May 2018

The crystal structures of halogenated 1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-a]pyridine derivatives disclose intriguing structural chemistry features dictated by the formation of either hydrogen bonds (HBs) or halogen bonds (XBs).
Effects of surface hydroxylation on adhesion at zinc/silica interfaces
Authors: Le Ha-Linh Thi , Goniakowski Jacek , Noguera Claudine , Koltsov Alexey , Mataigne Jean-Michel
Published: May 2018

Pre-hydroxylation of silica surfaces followed by hydrogen desorption is shown to provide a promising route toward an adhesion improvement of anti-corrosive zinc coatings on modern advanced high-strength steels.
Modified MXene: promising electrode materials for constructing Ohmic contacts with MoS2for electronic device applications
Authors: Zhao Pei , Jin Hao , Lv Xingshuai , Huang Baibiao , Ma Yandong , Dai Ying
Published: May 2018

Promising electrode materials for constructing Ohmic contact with MoS2for electronic device application.
Dietary fibers, prebiotics, and exopolysaccharides produced by lactic acid bacteria: potential health benefits with special regard to cholesterol-lowering effects
Authors: Korcz E. , Kerényi Z. , Varga L.
Published: May 2018

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB)-based exopolysaccharides (EPS) potentially have prebiotic properties and could be natural alternatives for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia.
Effectiveness of a low-fat yoghurt supplemented with rooster comb extract on muscle strength in adults with mild knee pain and mechanisms of action on muscle regeneration
Authors: Moriña David , Fernández-Castillejo Sara , Valls Rosa-Maria , Pedret Anna , Taltavull Núria , Romeu Marta , Giralt Montse , Montero Manuel , Bernal Gloria , Faba Jenny , Pérez-Merino Laura , Gonzalez Roser , Casajuana Maria-Carmen , Rodríguez Áurea , Arola Luis , Puiggrós Francesc , Möller Ingrid , Chetrit Carles , Martinez-Puig Daniel , Solà Rosa
Published: May 2018

Yoghurt supplemented with rooster comb extract improves muscle strength increasing muscle regeneration.
Towards environmentally friendlier Suzuki–Miyaura reactions with precursors of Pd-NHC (NHC = N-heterocyclic carbene) complexes
Authors: Zinser Caroline M. , Warren Katie G. , Meadows Rebecca E. , Nahra Fady , Al-Majid Abdullah M. , Barakat Assem , Islam Mohammad S. , Nolan Steven P. , Cazin Catherine S. J.
Published: May 2018

The preparation of [NHC·H][Pd(η3-R-allyl)Cl2] complexes is disclosed and represents a facile, an atom-economical and rapid synthesis.
A multiplexed microfluidic system for evaluation of dynamics of immune–tumor interactions
Authors: Moore N. , Doty D. , Zielstorff M. , Kariv I. , Moy L. Y. , Gimbel A. , Chevillet J. R. , Lowry N. , Santos J. , Mott V. , Kratchman L. , Lau T. , Addona G. , Chen H. , Borenstein J. T.
Published: May 2018

A system for perfusing and interacting tumor fragments and immune cells and testing drug response with image analytics is reported.
Formation of porous Cu hydroxy double salt nanoflowers derived from metal–organic frameworks with efficient peroxidase-like activity for label-free detection of glucose
Authors: Li Ali , Mu Xijiao , Li Tianrong , Wen Huang , Li Wanchong , Li Yuee , Wang Baodui
Published: May 2018

With a leaf-like MOF-5 as both a precursor and a template and copper acetate as a second precursor, CuHDS nanoflowers have been prepared for colorimetric detection of glucose.
Radial multi-quantum well ZnO nanorod arrays for nanoscale ultraviolet light-emitting diodes
Authors: Kang Jang-Won , Kim Byeong-Hyeok , Song Hui , Jo Yong-Ryun , Hong Sang-Hyun , Jung Gun Young , Kim Bong-Joong , Park Seong-Ju , Cho Chang-Hee
Published: May 2018

Electrically-driven UV nano-LED was demonstrated with radial multi-quantum well ZnO nanorod array, which can be utilized as integrated UV light sources in future nanophotonic devices.
Review of synthetic approaches toward maoecrystal V
Authors: Smith Brandon R. , Njardarson Jon T.
Published: May 2018

Synthetic approaches toward the complex natural product diterpenoid maoecrystal V are reviewed, including successful total syntheses, published synthetic efforts, and efforts compiled from dissertations.