bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of low-density carbon-bonded carbon fiber composites with an Hf-based coating for high temperature applications
Authors: Xu Lin , Yang Wenbing , Fan Zhen , Li Xingchao , Li Wei , Song Yongzhong , Feng Zhihai , Zhang Dahai
Published: May 2018

A novel low-density CBCF composite with an Hf-based coating was designed and prepared, which exhibited a good ablation resistance at the maximum temperature range of 1616–2037 °C for 300 s.
Correlation between the corrosion rate and electrochemical noise energy of copper in chloride electrolyte
Authors: Yi Chenxi , Du Xiaoqing , Yang Yumeng , Zhu Benfeng , Zhang Zhao
Published: May 2018

Sampling frequency clearly changes EDP and PSD spectra and EN corrosion energy shows a similar variation trend with corrosion rate.
Modified iron phosphate/polyvinyl alcohol composite film for controlled-release fertilisers
Authors: Zhang Yi , Yi Zhifeng , Wei Lianmei , Kong Lingxue , Wang Lijun
Published: May 2018

A new concept of citric acid-stimulus P fertiliser via incorporation of ferric phosphate as P source in polyvinyl alcohol films.
Controllable synthesis of graphene scrolls and their performance for supercapacitors
Authors: Gao Lianlian , Zhang Zhigang , Zhao Jinping , Zhou Jin , Miao Zhichao , Si Weijiang , Zhuo Shuping
Published: May 2018

In this work, sodium citrate (SC) was added to a graphene oxide (GO) aqueous suspension and GSCs were controllably prepared on a large-scale by a cold quenching method.
Corrosion kinetics and mechanisms of ZrC1−xceramics in high temperature water vapor
Authors: Wei Boxin , Wang Dong , Wang Yujin , Zhang Haibin , Peng Shuming , Xu Canhui , Song Guming , Zhou Yu
Published: May 2018

Studies on the corrosion kinetics and mechanisms of ZrC1−xceramics in water vapor are reported for the first time.
Synthesis of surfactant free stable nanofluids based on barium hexaferrite by pulsed laser ablation in liquid
Authors: V. N. Archana , Johny Jacob , Garza-Navarro Marco A. , Shaji S. , Thomas Senoy , M. R. Anantharaman
Published: May 2018

Barium hexaferrite nanofluids based on five different solvents are prepared using pulsed laser ablation in liquid, the different solvents resulting in different particle diameters. This study paves the way for the synthesis of stable magnetic nanofluids of permanent magnets.
Enhanced efficiency of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 solar cells via anti-reflectance properties and surface passivation by atomic layer deposited aluminum oxide
Authors: Zhang Bingye , Han Lu , Ying Shitian , Li Yongfeng , Yao Bin
Published: May 2018

ALD-Al2O3 is used as a passivation layer in a CZTSSe device and optimal device parameters are obtained by precisely controlling Al2O3 thickness.
Reversible mechanofluorochromism of aniline-terminated phenylene ethynylenes
Authors: Sharber Seth A. , Shih Kuo-Chih , Mann Arielle , Frausto Fanny , Haas Terry E. , Nieh Mu-Ping , Thomas Samuel W.
Published: May 2018

Alkyl chain length tunes the reversion temperature of mechanofluorochromic phenylene-ethynylenes that show reversible force-induced change of fluorescence from green to orange.
Rechargeable aluminum–selenium batteries with high capacity
Authors: Huang Xiaodan , Liu Yang , Liu Chao , Zhang Jun , Noonan Owen , Yu Chengzhong
Published: May 2018

An aluminum–selenium battery powered by the reversible redox reaction of Se/Se2Cl2 has been developed for the first time.
Modelling of surfactant-driven front instabilities in spreading bacterial colonies
Authors: Trinschek Sarah , John Karin , Thiele Uwe
Published: May 2018

The spreading of bacterial colonies is strongly influenced by physico-chemical effects. The interplay of surfactant production and wettability results in four qualitatively different morphologies.
Photothermally triggered disassembly of a visible dual fluorescent poly(ethylene glycol)/α-cyclodextrin hydrogel
Authors: Yang Afeng , Dong Xia , Liang Jie , Zhang Yan , Yang Wenzhi , Liu Tianjun , Yang Jun , Kong Deling , Lv Feng
Published: May 2018

Fluorescence imaging tracking and photothermal remote control have been merged into the visible and controlled disassembly of the poly(ethylene glycol)/α-cyclodextrin hydrogel.
Concentration-dependent swelling and structure of ionic microgels: simulation and theory of a coarse-grained model
Authors: Weyer Tyler J. , Denton Alan R.
Published: May 2018

Swelling and structural properties of ionic microgel suspensions are described by a coarse-grained model that includes elastic and electrostatic interactions.
Effect of donor length on electronic structures and charge transport polarity for DTDPP-based D–A copolymers: a computational study based on a super-exchange model
Authors: He Feifei , Cheng Changli , Geng Hua , Yi Yuanping , Shuai Zhigang
Published: May 2018

Based on an SE model, we understand the change of the charge transport polarity of (DTDPP-nT) polymers at a molecular level.
Revealing the beneficial effects of Ge doping on Cu2ZnSnSe4 thin film solar cells
Authors: Neuschitzer Markus , Rodriguez Moises Espindola , Guc Maxim , Marquez Jose A. , Giraldo Sergio , Forbes Ian , Perez-Rodriguez Alejandro , Saucedo Edgardo
Published: May 2018

The beneficial effect of Ge doping on kesterite absorbers is revealed and insights into kesterite's intrinsic defect chemistry are given.
Electrochemically active separators with excellent catalytic ability toward high-performance Li–S batteries
Authors: Wang Maoxu , Fan Lishuang , Qiu Yue , Chen Dandan , Wu Xian , Zhao Chenyang , Cheng Junhan , Wang Yan , Zhang Naiqing , Sun Kening
Published: May 2018

Separator modification has been proven to be a promising technology to realize high sulfur-utilization and long-life Li–S batteries.
Dimension-matched plasmonic Au/TiO2/BiVO4 nanocomposites as efficient wide-visible-light photocatalysts to convert CO2 and mechanistic insights
Authors: Bian Ji , Qu Yang , Zhang Xuliang , Sun Ning , Tang Dongyan , Jing Liqiang
Published: May 2018

Dimension-matched Au/TiO2/BiVO4 nanocomposites have been constructed by first preparing BiVO4 nanoflakes via an ion exchange process from BiOCl nanosheets, followed by coupling (001) facet exposed TiO2 nanosheets and then modifying plasmonic Au nanorods.
Directed self-assembly pathways of three-dimensional Pt/Pd nanocrystal superlattice electrocatalysts for enhanced methanol oxidation reaction
Authors: Xu Guangran , Si Rui , Liu Jiayin , Zhang Luyao , Gong Xia , Gao Rui , Liu Baocang , Zhang Jun
Published: May 2018

A new directed self-assembly strategy is developed to achieve 3D Pt/Pd nanocrystal superlattices with enhanced electrocatalytic performance for methanol oxidation reaction due to the enriched metallic Pt active sites by appropriate Pd alloying and surface nitrogen doping.
Engineering of thermo-/pH-responsive membranes with enhanced gating coefficients, reversible behaviors and self-cleaning performance through acetic acid boosted microgel assembly
Authors: Liu Huawen , Zhao Xueting , Jia Ning , Sotto Arcadio , Zhao Yan , Shen Jiangnan , Gao Congjie , van der Bruggen Bart
Published: May 2018

The gating mechanism of stomates regulated by guard cells provides inspiration for the design of smart gating membranes.
Who does TORC2 talk to?
Authors: Xie Jianling , Wang Xuemin , Proud Christopher G.
Published: May 2018

The target of rapamycin (TOR) is a protein kinase that, by forming complexes with partner proteins, governs diverse cellular signalling networks to regulate a wide range of processes. TOR thus plays central roles in maintaining normal cellular functions and, when dysregulated, in diverse diseases. TOR forms two distinct types of multiprotein complexes (TOR complexes 1 and 2, TORC1 and TORC2). TORC1 and TORC2 differ in their composition, their control and their substrates, so that they play quite distinct roles in cellular physiology. Much effort has been focused on deciphering the detailed regulatory links within the TOR pathways and the structure and control of TOR complexes. In this review, we summarize recent advances in understanding mammalian (m) TORC2, its structure, its regulation, and its substrates, which link TORC2 signalling to the control of cell functions. It is now clear that TORC2 regulates several aspects of cell metabolism, including lipogenesis and glucose transport. It also regulates gene transcription, the cytoskeleton, and the activity of a subset of other protein kinases.
High α-tocopherol dosing increases lipid metabolism by changing redox state in damaged rat gastric mucosa and liver after ethanol treatment
Authors: Olguín-Martínez Marisela , Hernández-Espinosa Diego R. , Hernández-Muñoz Rolando
Published: May 2018

Regeneration of ethanol-injured rat gastric mucosa must undergo changes in major metabolic pathways to achieve DNA replication and cell proliferation. These events are highly dependent on glucose utilization and inhibited by vitamin E (VE) (α-tocopherol) administration. Therefore, the present study aimed at assessing lipid metabolism in the gastric mucosa and ethanol-induced gastric damage and the effect of α-tocopherol administration. For this, rates of fatty acid β-oxidation and lipogenesis were tested in gastric mucosa samples. Through histological analysis, we found loss of the mucosa’s superficial epithelium, which became gradually normalized during the recovery period. Proliferation of gastric mucosa occurred with augmented formation of β-oxidation by-products, diminished synthesis of triacylglycerols (TGs), as well as of phospholipids, and a reduced cytoplasmic NAD/NADH ratio, whereas the mitochondrial redox NAD/NADH ratio was much less affected. In addition, α-tocopherol increased palmitic acid utilization in the gastric mucosa, which was accompanied by the induction of ‘mirror image’ effects on the cell redox state, reflected in an inhibited cell gastric mucosa proliferation by the vitamin administration. In conclusion, the present study shows, for the first time, the role of lipid metabolism in the adaptive cell gastric mucosa changes that drive proliferation after a chronic insult. Moreover, α-tocopherol increased gastric mucosa utilization of palmitic acid associated with energy production. These events could be associated with its antioxidant properties in co-ordination with regulation of genes and cell pathways, including changes in the cell NAD/NADH redox state.
Recurrent neural networks for remote sensing image classification
Authors: Lakhal Mohamed Ilyes , Çevikalp Hakan , Escalera Sergio , Ofli Ferda
Published: May 2018

Automatically classifying an image has been a central problem in computer vision for decades. A plethora of models has been proposed, from handcrafted feature solutions to more sophisticated approaches such as deep learning. The authors address the problem of remote sensing image classification, which is an important problem to many real world applications. They introduce a novel deep recurrent architecture that incorporates high‐level feature descriptors to tackle this challenging problem. Their solution is based on the general encoder–decoder framework. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to use a recurrent network structure on this task. The experimental results show that the proposed framework outperforms the previous works in the three datasets widely used in the literature. They have achieved a state‐of‐the‐art accuracy rate of 97.29% on the UC Merced dataset.
Optimality of the maximum likelihood estimator in astrometry
Authors: Espinosa Sebastian , Silva Jorge F. , Mendez Rene A. , Lobos Rodrigo , Orchard Marcos
Published: May 2018

Context.Astrometry relies on the precise measurement of the positions and motions of celestial objects. Driven by the ever-increasing accuracy of astrometric measurements, it is important to critically assess the maximum precision that could be achieved with these observations.

Aims.The problem of astrometry is revisited from the perspective of analyzing the attainability of well-known performance limits (the Cramér–Rao bound) for the estimation of the relative position of light-emitting (usually point-like) sources on a charge-coupled device (CCD)-like detector using commonly adopted estimators such as the weighted least squares and the maximum likelihood.

Methods.Novel technical results are presented to determine the performance of an estimator that corresponds to the solution of an optimization problem in the context of astrometry. Using these results we are able to place stringent bounds on the bias and the variance of the estimators in close form as a function of the data. We confirm these results through comparisons to numerical simulations under a broad range of realistic observing conditions.

Results.The maximum likelihood and the weighted least square estimators are analyzed. We confirm the sub-optimality of the weighted least squares scheme from medium to high signal-to-noise found in an earlier study for the (unweighted) least squares method. We find that the maximum likelihood estimator achieves optimal performance limits across a wide range of relevant observational conditions. Furthermore, from our results, we provide concrete insights for adopting an adaptive weighted least square estimator that can be regarded as a computationally efficient alternative to the optimal maximum likelihood solution.

Conclusions.We provide, for the first time, close-form analytical expressions that bound the bias and the variance of the weighted least square and maximum likelihood implicit estimators for astrometry using a Poisson-driven detector. These expressions can be used to formally assess the precision attainable by these estimators in comparison with the minimum variance bound.
Circular polarization signals of cloudy (exo)planets
Authors: Rossi L. , Stam D. M.
Published: May 2018

Context. The circular polarization of light that planets reflect is often neglected because it is very small compared to the linear polarization. It could, however, provide information on a planet’s atmosphere and surface, and on the presence of life, because homochiral molecules that are the building blocks of life on Earth are known to reflect circularly polarized light.

Aims. We compute Pc, the degree of circular polarization, of light that is reflected by rocky (exo)planets to provide insight into the viability of circular spectropolarimetry for characterizing (exo)planetary atmospheres.

Methods. We compute the Pc of light that is reflected by rocky (exo)planets with liquid water or sulfuric acid solution clouds, both spatially resolved across the planetary disk and, for planets with patchy clouds, integrated across the planetary disk, for various planetary phase angles α.

Results. The optical thickness and vertical distribution of the atmospheric gas and clouds, the size parameter and refractive index of the cloud particles, and α all influence Pc. Spatially resolved, Pc varies between ± 0.20% (the sign indicates the polarization direction). Only for small gas optical thicknesses above the clouds do significant sign changes (related to cloud particle properties) across the planets’ hemispheres occur. For patchy clouds, the disk-integrated Pc is typically smaller than ± 0.025%, with maximum for α between 40° and 70°, and 120° to 140°. As expected, the disk-integrated Pc is virtually zero at α = 0° and 180°. The disk-integrated Pc is also very small at α ≈ 100°.

Conclusions. Measuring circular polarization signals appears to be challenging with current technology. The small atmospheric circular polarization signal could, however, allow the detection of circular polarization due to homochiral molecules such as those associated with life on Earth. Confirmation of the detectability of such signals requires better knowledge of the strength of circular polarization signals of biological sources and in particular of the angular distribution of their scattering.
Impact of oxygen enhanced combustion of natural gas on thermal efficiency of combustion aggregate
Authors: Dzurňák Róbert , Jablonský Gustáv , Varga Augustín , Kizek Ján , Pástor Marcel , Lukáč Ladislav
Published: May 2018

The aim of the present article is to present the achieved results on the experimental combustion aggregate. In the experimental measurement, the increased of the oxygen concentration in the oxidizing agent in the combustion of natural gas has been used. The results presented in this article are focused to achieve the thermal efficiency of the device, which is expressed by useful heat of the combustion aggregate. Part of the article is the analysis of the heating heat exchanger based on heat flow by convection and radiation and CFD mode of heat exchanger
Solvothermal method as a green chemistry solution for micro-encapsulation of phase change materials for high temperature thermal energy storage
Authors: Tudor Albert Ioan , Motoc Adrian Mihail , Ciobota Cristina Florentina , Ciobota Dan. Nastase , Piticescu Radu Robert , Romero-Sanchez Maria Dolores
Published: May 2018

Thermal energy storage systems using phase change materials (PCMs) as latent heat storage are one of the main challenges at European level in improving the performances and efficiency of concentrated solar power energy generation due to their high energy density. PCM with high working temperatures in the temperature range 300–500 °C are required for these purposes. However their use is still limited due to the problems raised by the corrosion of the majority of high temperature PCMs and lower thermal transfer properties. Micro-encapsulation was proposed as one method to overcome these problems. Different micro-encapsulation methods proposed in the literature are presented and discussed. An original process for the micro-encapsulation of potassium nitrate as PCM in inorganic zinc oxide shells based on a solvothermal method followed by spray drying to produce microcapsules with controlled phase composition and distribution is proposed and their transformation temperatures and enthalpies measured by differential scanning calorimetry are presented.
Psychosoziale Akuthilfen bei einem Massenanfall direkt oder indirekt betroffener Kinder
Authors: Karutz Harald , Fegert Ann-Katrin , Blank-Gorki Verena
Published: May 2018

In Großschadenslagen mit vielen direkt oder indirekt beteiligten Kindern muss nicht nur eine notfallmedizinische Hilfeleistung, sondern auch eine Psychosoziale Notfallversorgung (PSNV) sichergestellt werden. In diesem Zusammenhang werden konkrete Hinweise zu psychosozialen Akuthilfen, zur Einsatztaktik sowie zu Führungs- und Funktionsstrukturen unmittelbar am Ort des Geschehens gegeben. Der Beitrag greift dabei die allgemein bekannten Leitlinien des Konsensusprozesses zur PSNV in Deutschland auf, ergänzt und konkretisiert diese jedoch auch.
A Divergent Nickel-Catalyzed Synthesis of Quinazolinediones and Benzoxazinone Imines
Authors: Beutner Gregory , Wertjes William , Ayers Sloan , Gao Qi , Simmons Eric
Published: May 2018

During exploration of the nickel(0)-catalyzed reaction of isocyanates and isatoic anhydrides, it was found that changes in the substitution pattern of the isocyanate led to constitutionally isomeric quinazolinediones [quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones] or benzoxazinone imines [2-imino-1,2-dihydro-4H-3,1-benzoxazin-4-ones]. Ligand and solvent screening experiments allowed for identification of conditions that could lead to each constitutional isomer in good to excellent levels of selectivity and yield. Comprehensive characterization of the previously poorly characterized benzoxazinone imines is also provided.
Obere Altersgrenze bei ambulanter Anästhesie: Möglichkeiten und Risiken
Authors: Hüppe Tobias , Kneller Nicole , Raddatz Alexander
Published: May 2018

Zahlreiche Operationen werden heute auch noch in höherem Lebensalter ambulant durchgeführt. Dieser Übersichtsartikel stellt die Vorteile der ambulanten Anästhesie bei älteren Patienten dar, zeigt aber auch die Risiken einer zu frühen Entlassung auf. Für den klinischen Alltag werden praktische Hilfestellungen für die Patientenauswahl gegeben und Risikofaktoren für eine ungeplante stationäre Aufnahme identifiziert.
Continuous properties of the data-to-solution map for a generalized μ-Camassa-Holm integrable equation
Authors: Yu Shengqi
Published: May 2018

This work studies a generalized μ-type integrable equation with both quadratic and cubic nonlinearities; the μ-Camassa-Holm and modified μ-Camassa-Holm equations are members of this family of equations. It has been shown that the Cauchy problem for this generalized μ-Camassa-Holm integrable equation is locally well-posed for initial data u0 ∈ Hs, s > 5/2. In this work, we further investigate the continuity properties to this equation. It is proved in this work that the data-to-solution map of the proposed equation is not uniformly continuous. It is also found that the solution map is Hölder continuous in the Hr-topology when 0 ≤ r < s with Hölder exponent α depending on both s and r.
Electron diffraction and imaging for atom probe tomography
Authors: Kirchhofer Rita , Diercks David R. , Gorman Brian P.
Published: May 2018

Previous work has shown that pre- and post-experiment quantification of atom probe tomography (APT) specimen geometry using electron microscopy can constrain otherwise unknown parameters, leading to an improvement in data fidelity. To that end, an electron microscopy and diffraction system has been developed for in situ compatibility with modern APT hardware. The system is capable of secondary and backscattered scanning electron imaging, bright field and dark field scanning transmission electron imaging, and scanning transmission electron diffraction. Additionally, the system is also capable of in situ dynamic electron diffraction experiments using laser pulsed heating of the APT specimen.
High discharge efficiency of (Sr, Pb, Bi) TiO3 relaxor ceramics for energy-storage application
Authors: Chao Mingming , Liu Jingsong , Zeng Mengshi , Wang Debin , Yu Hongtao , Yuan Ying , Zhang Shuren
Published: May 2018

We report herein on the energy storage and discharge properties of the relaxor ferroelectric ceramic Sr0.8Pb0.1Bi0.1TiO3 (SPBT). This material has a slanted hysteresis loop, and all samples show low remnant polarization and low coercive field, which leads to a high discharge efficiency. The maximum polarization is 10.1 μC/cm2, the minimum coercive field is 0.229 kV/cm, and the maximum efficiency is 94.2%. The discharge current waveforms are sinusoidal, the first discharge period is 140 ns, and the power density is approximately 4.2 × 107 W/kg. The high discharge speed and high discharge power density indicate that SPBT ceramics are very promising materials for energy storage applications.
Reaction time for trimolecular reactions in compartment-based reaction-diffusion models
Authors: Li Fei , Chen Minghan , Erban Radek , Cao Yang
Published: May 2018

Trimolecular reaction models are investigated in the compartment-based (lattice-based) framework for stochastic reaction-diffusion modeling. The formulae for the first collision time and the mean reaction time are derived for the case where three molecules are present in the solution under periodic boundary conditions. For the case of reflecting boundary conditions, similar formulae are obtained using a computer-assisted approach. The accuracy of these formulae is further verified through comparison with numerical results. The presented derivation is based on the first passage time analysis of Montroll [J. Math. Phys. 10, 753 (1969)]. Montroll’s results for two-dimensional lattice-based random walks are adapted and applied to compartment-based models of trimolecular reactions, which are studied in one-dimensional or pseudo one-dimensional domains.
True random bit generators based on current time series of contact glow discharge electrolysis
Authors: Rojas Andrea Espinel , Allagui Anis , Elwakil Ahmed S. , Alawadhi Hussain
Published: May 2018

Random bit generators (RBGs) in today's digital information and communication systems employ a high rate physical entropy sources such as electronic, photonic, or thermal time series signals. However, the proper functioning of such physical systems is bound by specific constrains that make them in some cases weak and susceptible to external attacks. In this study, we show that the electrical current time series of contact glow discharge electrolysis, which is a dc voltage-powered micro-plasma in liquids, can be used for generating random bit sequences in a wide range of high dc voltages. The current signal is quantized into a binary stream by first using a simple moving average function which makes the distribution centered around zero, and then applying logical operations which enables the binarized data to pass all tests in industry-standard randomness test suite by the National Institute of Standard Technology. Furthermore, the robustness of this RBG against power supply attacks has been examined and verified.
Deuterium uptake and sputtering of simultaneous lithiated, boronized, and oxidized carbon surfaces irradiated by low-energy deuterium
Authors: Domínguez-Gutiérrez F. J. , Krstić P. S. , Allain J. P. , Bedoya F. , Islam M. M. , Lotfi R. , van Duin A. C. T.
Published: May 2018

We study the effects of deuterium irradiation on D-uptake by simultaneously boronized, lithiated, oxidized, and deuterated carbon surfaces. We present analysis of the bonding chemistry of D for various concentrations of boron, lithium, oxygen, and deuterium on carbon surfaces using molecular dynamics with reactive force field potentials, which are here adapted to include the interaction of boron and lithium. We calculate D retention and sputtering yields of each constituent of the Li-C-B-O mixture and discuss the role of oxygen in these processes. The extent of the qualitative agreement between new experimental data for B-C-O-D obtained in this paper and computational data is provided. As in the case of the Li-C-O system, comparative studies where experimental and computational data complement each other (in this case on the B-Li-C-O system) provide deeper insights into the mechanisms behind the role that O plays in the retention of D, a relevant issue in fusion machines.
A first-principles analysis of ballistic conductance, grain boundary scattering and vertical resistance in aluminum interconnects
Authors: Zhou Tianji , Lanzillo Nicholas A. , Bhosale Prasad , Gall Daniel , Quon Roger
Published: May 2018

We present an ab initio evaluation of electron scattering mechanisms in Al interconnects from a back-end-of-line (BEOL) perspective. We consider the ballistic conductance as a function of nanowire size, as well as the impact of surface oxidation on electron transport. We also consider several representative twin grain boundaries and calculate the specific resistivity and reflection coefficients for each case. Lastly, we calculate the vertical resistance across the Al/Ta(N)/Al and Cu/Ta(N)/Cu interfaces, which are representative of typical vertical interconnect structures with diffusion barriers. Despite a high ballistic conductance, the calculated specific resistivities at grain boundaries are 70-100% higher in Al than in Cu, and the vertical resistance across Ta(N) diffusion barriers are 60-100% larger for Al than for Cu. These results suggest that in addition to the well-known electromigration limitations in Al interconnects, electron scattering represents a major problem in achieving low interconnect line resistance at fine dimensions.
Coherent states field theory in supramolecular polymer physics
Authors: Fredrickson Glenn H. , Delaney Kris T.
Published: May 2018

In 1970, Edwards and Freed presented an elegant representation of interacting branched polymers that resembles the coherent states (CS) formulation of second-quantized field theory. This CS polymer field theory has been largely overlooked during the intervening period in favor of more conventional “auxiliary field” (AF) interacting polymer representations that form the basis of modern self-consistent field theory (SCFT) and field-theoretic simulation approaches. Here we argue that the CS representation provides a simpler and computationally more efficient framework than the AF approach for broad classes of reversibly bonding polymers encountered in supramolecular polymer science. The CS formalism is reviewed, initially for a simple homopolymer solution, and then extended to supramolecular polymers capable of forming reversible linkages and networks. In the context of the Edwards model of a non-reacting homopolymer solution and one and two-component models of telechelic reacting polymers, we discuss the structure of CS mean-field theory, including the equivalence to SCFT, and show how weak-amplitude expansions (random phase approximations) can be readily developed without explicit enumeration of all reaction products in a mixture. We further illustrate how to analyze CS field theories beyond SCFT at the level of Gaussian field fluctuations and provide a perspective on direct numerical simulations using a recently developed complex Langevin technique.
Development of bunch shape monitor for high-intensity beam on the China ADS proton LINAC Injector II
Authors: Zhu Guangyu , Wu Junxia , Du Ze , Zhang Yong , Xue Zongheng , Xie Hongming , Wei Yuan , Jing Long , Jia Huan
Published: May 2018

The development, performance, and testing of the longitudinal bunch shape monitor, namely, the Fast Faraday Cup (FFC), are presented in this paper. The FFC is an invasive instrument controlled by a stepper motor, and its principle of operation is based on a strip line structure. The longitudinal bunch shape was determined by sampling a small part of the beam hitting the strip line through a 1-mm hole. The rise time of the detector reached 24 ps. To accommodate experiments that utilize high-intensity beams, the materials of the bunch shape monitor were chosen to sustain high temperatures. Water cooling was also integrated in the detector system to enhance heat transfer and prevent thermal damage. We also present an analysis of the heating caused by the beam. The bunch shape monitor has been installed and commissioned at the China ADS proton LINAC Injector II.
POx/Al2O3 stacks: Highly effective surface passivation of crystalline silicon with a large positive fixed charge
Authors: Black Lachlan E. , Kessels W. M. M. (Erwin)
Published: May 2018

Thin-film stacks of phosphorus oxide (POx) and aluminium oxide (Al2O3) are shown to provide highly effective passivation of crystalline silicon (c-Si) surfaces. Surface recombination velocities as low as 1.7 cm s−1 and saturation current densities J0s as low as 3.3 fA cm−2 are obtained on n-type (100) c-Si surfaces passivated by 6 nm/14 nm thick POx/Al2O3 stacks deposited in an atomic layer deposition system and annealed at 450 °C. This excellent passivation can be attributed in part to an unusually large positive fixed charge density of up to 4.7 × 1012 cm−2, which makes such stacks especially suitable for passivation of n-type Si surfaces.
Magnetic structure of Ho0.5Y0.5Mn6Sn6 compound studied by powder neutron diffraction
Authors: Li X.-Y. , Peng L.-C. , He L.-H. , Zhang S.-Y. , Yao J.-L. , Zhang Y. , Wang F.-W.
Published: May 2018

The crystallographic and magnetic structures of the HfFe6Ge6-type compound Ho0.5Y0.5Mn6Sn6 have been studied by powder neutron diffraction and in-situ Lorentz transmission electron microscopy. Besides the nonlinear thermal expansion of lattice parameters, an incommensurate conical spiral magnetic structure was determined in the temperature interval of 2–340 K. A spin reorientation transition has been observed from 50 to 300 K, where the alignment of the c-axis component of magnetic moments of the Ho sublattice and the Mn sublattice transfers from ferrimagnetic to ferromagnetic.
Amplification due to two-stream instability of self-electric and magnetic fields of an ion beam propagating in background plasma
Authors: Tokluoglu Erinc K. , Kaganovich Igor D. , Carlsson Johan A. , Hara Kentaro , Startsev Edward A.
Published: May 2018

Propagation of charged particle beams in background plasma as a method of space charge neutralization has been shown to achieve a high degree of charge and current neutralization and therefore enables nearly ballistic propagation and focusing of charged particle beams. Correspondingly, the use of plasmas for propagation of charged particle beams has important applications for transport and focusing of intense particle beams in inertial fusion and high energy density laboratory plasma physics. However, the streaming of beam ions through a background plasma can lead to the development of two-stream instability between the beam ions and the plasma electrons. The beam electric and magnetic fields enhanced by the two-stream instability can lead to defocusing of the ion beam. Using particle-in-cell simulations, we study the scaling of the instability-driven self-electromagnetic fields and consequent defocusing forces with the background plasma density and beam ion mass. We identify plasma parameters where the defocusing forces can be reduced.
Effects of unsaturation of long-chain fatty acids on rumen protozoal engulfment and microbial protein recycling in protozoa in vitro
Authors: Wang Mengzhi , Jing Yujia , Wang Yifan , Liu Shimin , Gao Jian , Ouyang Jialiang , Vercoe Phil
Published: May 2018

The present study investigated the effects of long-chain fatty acids with different degrees of unsaturation on rumen protozoal engulfment and microbial protein recycling by protozoa in vitro. The seven experimental treatments included stearic acid (C18:0, Group A), oleic acid (C18:1, n-9, Group B), linoleic acid (C18:2, n-6, Group C), α-linoleic acid (C18:3, n-3, Group D), arachidonic acid (C20:4, n-6, Group E), eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5, n-3, Group F) and calcium palmitate (C16:0, control group, G), each being included at 3% (w/w) in the total culture substrate containing starch, xylan, araban, glucan, mannan, cellulose, pectin, lignin, urea and casein. Three goats fitted with rumen cannula were used to provide rumen fluid. The incubation medium was collected for the measurement of engulfing rate of bacteria by protozoa and microbial biomass after 24 h of in vitro incubation. The results showed that the bacterial density of Group D (5.75 × 109 cells/mL) was significantly higher than that of Groups A, B, E, F and G (P < 0.05), but that of the control (Group G) as well as those of Groups A and B were lower than those of Groups D and C (P < 0.05). Similarly, the bacterial protein was the highest in Group D and the lowest in Group G. The number of bacteria engulfed by protozoa per millilitre were the highest in the Control group G (847 × 105 cells/(mL.h)) and the lowest in Group D (392 × 105 cells/(mL.h)). The recycling rate of bacterial cells was lowest in Group D (0.68%) and the recycling time of bacterial cells was the longest (147 h). The quantity of protein recycled was lowest in Group D and highest in Group G, which derived from the number of bacterial cells engulfed. Therefore, it was concluded that the effects of long-chain fatty acids on rumen microbial protein recycling and microbial protein synthesis mainly relate to their degree of unsaturation, with α-linoleic acid possessing a better ability to suppress bacterial-cell (by protozoa) and reduce protein yield.
Resistance to the tick Rhipicephalus microplus and Babesia bovis infection levels in beef heifers raised in an endemic area of Sao Paulo state, Brazil
Authors: Maiorano A. M. , Giglioti R. , Oliveira M. C. S. , Oliveira H. N. , Cyrillo J. N. S. G. , Mercadante M. E. Z. , Silva J. A. I. I. V.
Published: May 2018

Repeatability coefficients (r) for tick resistance and Babesia bovis infection levels and the correlation (ρ) between these traits were estimated in beef heifers, using artificial infestations and short intervals between measurements. Forty heifers, including 20 Bos taurus taurus (Caracu) and 20 Bos taurus indicus (Nelore) animals, were submitted to three artificial infestations with Rhipicephalus microplus larvae at intervals of 14 days. The number of standard female was counted from the 19th through the 23rd day after each infestation, considering only the left side of each animal. Blood samples were collected on Days 0, 6, 20, 34 and 48 after the first infestation. The number of copies of B. bovis DNA (CN) was estimated from blood samples through the quantitative PCR technique to evaluate the level of infection in the animals. Total tick count (TTC), the percentage of return (PRij) and CN were analysed using the MIXED procedure of the SAS program. The r of the variables were estimated by intraclass correlation between measures of the same animal, with the variance component of the animal being divided by the phenotypic variance (residual + animal), using models with a CS structure matrix. Additionally, ρ among variables were estimated using the CORR procedure. The following results were obtained for Caracu and Nelore animals, respectively: 1.83 ± 0.37 and 0.63 ± 0.40 for TTC, 1.10 ± 0.23 and 0.47 ± 0.23 for PRij, and 2.29 ± 0.64 and 2.32 ± 0.58 for CN. The r was moderate for TTC (0.62) and PRij (0.53) and low for CN (0.10). The ρ between TTC and CN obtained in the same measurement day was not significant in either breed (P > 0.05; –0.07 for Caracu and 0.19 for Nelore). Results showed both breeds were able to develop resistance against B. bovis; however, Nelore exhibited higher tick resistance. The r obtained for CN and the weak association with tick resistance indicate that it is not possible to recommend the use of CN as a trait to predict tick resistance in these two breeds.
Increased pregnancy losses following serial somatic cell nuclear transfer in goats
Authors: Yang Min , Perisse Iuri , Fan Zhiqiang , Regouski Misha , Meyer-Ficca Mirella , Polejaeva Irina A.
Published: May 2018

Serial cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) is a critical tool for the expansion of precious transgenic lines or resetting the lifespan of primary transgenic cells for multiple genetic modifications. We successfully produced second-generation cloned goats using donor neonatal fibroblasts from first-generation clones. However, our attempts to produce any third-generation clones failed. SCNT efficiency decreased progressively with the clonal generations. The rate of pregnancy loss was significantly greater in recloning groups (P < 0.05). While no pregnancy loss was observed during the first round of SCNT, 14 out of 21 pregnancies aborted in the second round of SCNT and all pregnancies aborted in the third round of SCNT. In this retrospective study, we also investigated the expression of 21 developmentally important genes in muscle tissue of cloned (G1) and recloned (G2) offspring. The expression of most of these genes in live clones was found to be largely comparable to naturally reproduced control goats, but fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10), methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) and growth factor receptor bound protein 10 (GRB10) were differentially expressed (P < 0.05) in G2 goats compared with G1 and controls. To study the effects of serial cloning on DNA methylation, the methylation pattern of differentially methylated regions in imprinted genes H19 and insulin like growth factor 2 receptor (IGF2R) were also analysed. Aberrant H19 DNA methylation patterns were detected in G1 and G2 clones.
Weekday–weekend variations in mother‐/father–child physical activity and screen time relationship: A cross‐sectional study in a random sample of Czech families with 5‐ to 12‐year‐old children
Authors: Sigmundová Dagmar , Badura Petr , Sigmund Erik , Bucksch Jens
Published: May 2018

This study assessed the associations between these factors in a random sample of Czech families with preschool and school‐aged children. A nationally representative sample comprised 185 families with preschool children and 649 families with school‐aged children (dyads; both parents and child n = 365, mother and child n = 730, and father and child n = 469). The participants wore Yamax Digiwalker SW‐200 pedometers at least four weekdays and both weekend days and completed family logbooks (anthropometric parameters, daily step counts (SC), and screen time (ST)). When a parent (fathers at weekends and mothers both on weekdays and at weekends) achieved 10,000 SC per day, their children were also significantly (OR = 2.93–6.06, 95% CI = 2.02–9.26) more likely to meet the daily SC recommendation. On the contrary, the involvement of fathers in organized leisure‐time PA reduced their children's odds of meeting the SC recommendation on weekdays (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.31–0.89) and at weekends (OR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.24–0.72). The excessive ST of parents at weekends reduced the odds of their children meeting the SC recommendation (mother–child dyads: OR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.26–0.72; father–child dyads: OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.37–1.06). High levels of parents’ PA contribute to the achievement of the recommended daily PA in children on weekdays and at weekends. Excessive weekend ST of parents reduces their odds of their children achieving the recommended daily PA; however, the influence of parents’ PA on their children's achieving the recommended daily PA is stronger than the inhibitory effect of ST.
Information Hiding In Digital Video Using DCT, DWT and CvT
Authors: Shukur Wisam Abed , Abdullah Wathiq Najah , Qurban Luheb Kareem
Published: May 2018

The type of video that used in this proposed hiding a secret information technique is .AVI; the proposed technique of a data hiding to embed a secret information into video frames by using Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT), Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) and Curvelet Transform (CvT). An individual pixel consists of three color components (RGB), the secret information is embedded in Red (R) color channel. On the receiver side, the secret information is extracted from received video. After extracting secret information, robustness of proposed hiding a secret information technique is measured and obtained by computing the degradation of the extracted secret information by comparing it with the original secret information via calculating the Normalized cross Correlation (NC). The experiments shows the error ratio of the proposed technique is (8%) while accuracy ratio is (92%) when the Curvelet Transform (CvT) is used, but compared with Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) and Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT), the error rates are 11% and 14% respectively, while the accuracy ratios are (89%) and (86%) respectively. So, the experiments shows the Poisson noise gives better results than other types of noises, while the speckle noise gives worst results compared with other types of noises. The proposed technique has been established by using MATLAB R2016a programming language.
Phosphorylation of SNAP-23 at Ser95 causes a structural alteration and negatively regulates Fc receptor–mediated phagosome formation and maturation in macrophages
Authors: Sakurai Chiye , Itakura Makoto , Kinoshita Daiki , Arai Seisuke , Hashimoto Hitoshi , Wada Ikuo , Hatsuzawa Kiyotaka
Published: May 2018

SNAP-23 is a plasma membrane-localized soluble N-ethylmaleimide–sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNARE) involved in Fc receptor (FcR)-mediated phagocytosis. However, the regulatory mechanism underlying its function remains elusive. Using phosphorylation-specific antibodies, SNAP-23 was found to be phosphorylated at Ser95 in macrophages. To understand the role of this phosphorylation, we established macrophage lines overexpressing the nonphosphorylatable S95A or the phosphomimicking S95D mutation. The efficiency of phagosome formation and maturation was severely reduced in SNAP-23-S95D–overexpressing cells. To examine whether phosphorylation at Ser95 affected SNAP-23 structure, we constructed intramolecular Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) probes of SNAP-23 designed to evaluate the approximation of the N termini of the two SNARE motifs. Interestingly, a high FRET efficiency was detected on the membrane when the S95D probe was used, indicating that phosphorylation at Ser95 caused a dynamic structural shift to the closed form. Coexpression of IκB kinase (IKK) 2 enhanced the FRET efficiency of the wild-type probe on the phagosome membrane. Furthermore, the enhanced phagosomal FRET signal in interferon-γ–activated macrophages was largely dependent on IKK2, and this kinase mediated a delay in phagosome-lysosome fusion. These results suggested that SNAP-23 phosphorylation at Ser95 played an important role in the regulation of SNARE-dependent membrane fusion during FcR-mediated phagocytosis.
Ultrastructural, Molecular and Functional Mapping of GABAergic Synapses on Dendritic Spines and Shafts of Neocortical Pyramidal Neurons
Authors: Kwon Taekyung , Merchán-Pérez Angel , Rial Verde Emiliano M , Rodríguez José-Rodrigo , DeFelipe Javier , Yuste Rafael
Published: May 2018

The location of GABAergic synapses on dendrites is likely key for neuronal integration. In particular, inhibitory inputs on dendritic spines could serve to selectively veto or modulate individual excitatory inputs, greatly expanding the computational power of individual neurons. To investigate this, we have undertaken a combined functional, molecular, and ultrastructural mapping of the location of GABAergic inputs onto dendrites of pyramidal neurons from upper layers of juvenile mouse somatosensory cortex. Using two-photon uncaging of GABA, intracellular labeling with gerphyrin intrabodies, and focused ion beam milling with scanning electron microscopy, we find that most (96–98%) spines lack GABAergic synapses, although they still display GABAergic responses, potentially due to extrasynaptic GABA receptors. We conclude that GABAergic inputs, in practice, contact dendritic shafts and likely control clusters of excitatory inputs, defining functional zones on dendrites.
Effectiveness of provider price display in computerized physician order entry (CPOE) on healthcare quality: a systematic review
Authors: Mummadi Srinivas R , Mishra Raghavendra
Published: May 2018

Objective

To study the association between Electronic Health Record (EHR)/Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE) provider price display, and domains of healthcare quality (efficiency, effective care, patient centered care, patient safety, equitable care, and timeliness of care).

Methods

Randomized and non-randomized studies assessing the relationship between healthcare quality domains and EHR/CPOE provider price display published between 1/1/1980 to 2/1/2018 were included. MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Embase were searched. Assessment of internal validity of the included studies was performed with a modified Downs-Black checklist.

Results

Screening of 1118 abstracts was performed resulting in selection of 41 manuscripts for full length review. A total of 13 studies were included in the final analysis. Thirteen studies reported on efficiency domain, one on effectiveness and one on patient safety. Studies assessing relationship between provider price display and patient centered, equitable and timely care domains were not retrieved. Quality of the studies varied widely (Range 6-12 out of a maximum possible score of 13). Provider price display in electronic health record environment did not consistently influence domains of healthcare quality such as efficiency, effectiveness and patient safety.

Conclusions

Published evidence suggests that price display tools aimed at ordering providers in EHR/CPOE do not influence the efficiency domain of healthcare quality. Scant published evidence suggests that they do not influence the effectiveness and patient safety domains of healthcare quality. Future studies are needed to assess the relationship between provider price display and unexplored domains of healthcare quality (patient centered, equitable, and timely care).

Registration

PROSPERO registration: CRD42018082227