bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Exclusion Netting for Coffee Berry Borer (Hypothenemus Hampei) Management
Authors: Johnson Melissa A. , Fortna Samuel , Manoukis Nicholas C.
Published: June 2020

Exclusion nets are increasingly being used to protect a variety of agricultural crops from insect pests as a sustainable alternative to chemical controls. We examined the efficacy of exclusion nets in controlling the world’s most damaging insect pest of coffee, Hypothenemus hampei (coffee berry borer), on two small-scale coffee farms on Hawai’i Island. We recorded microclimate data, fruit infestation, population per fruit, sex ratio, mortality by Beauveria bassiana, coffee yield and quality in four paired exclusion and control (un-netted) plots on both farms. Mean and maximum daily temperature and relative humidity were similar between treatments, while mean and maximum daily solar radiation was reduced by ~50% in exclusion plots. Green and ripe fruit from exclusion plots had significantly lower infestation compared to un-netted control plots at both farms. We observed no significant difference between exclusion and control plots in the number of CBB per fruit or the female:male sex ratio. CBB mortality was significantly higher in control relative to exclusion plots in one of the two farms. Ripe fruits harvested from exclusion plots were on average significantly heavier and wider than those from control plots; however, there was no significant difference in the average yield per tree between treatments. Lastly, coffee quality was not significantly different between control and exclusion plots. Our results suggest that with complete sanitation prior to net installation in an environment where CBB is actively circulating, exclusion netting can successfully control CBB on small-scale coffee farms without reducing coffee yield or quality, and has the potential to lower production and labor costs by eliminating the need to spray pesticides.
Antibiotic Activity of a Paraphaeosphaeria sporulosa-Produced Diketopiperazine against Salmonella enterica
Authors: Carrieri Raffaele , Borriello Giorgia , Piccirillo Giulio , Lahoz Ernesto , Sorrentino Roberto , Cermola Michele , Censi Sergio Bolletti , Grauso Laura , Mangoni Alfonso , Vinale Francesco
Published: June 2020

A diketopiperazine has been purified from a culture filtrate of the endophytic fungus Paraphaeosphaeria sporulosa, isolated from healthy tissues of strawberry plants in a survey of microbes as sources of anti-bacterial metabolites. Its structure has been determined by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analyses and was found to be identical to cyclo(L-Pro-L-Phe) purified from species of other fungal genera. This secondary metabolite has been selected following bioguided-assay fractionation against two strains of Salmonella enterica, the causal agent of bovine gastroenteritis. The diketopiperazine cyclo(L-Pro-L-Phe), isolated for the first time from Paraphaeosphaeria species, showed minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 71.3 and 78.6 μg/mL against the two S. enterica strains. This finding may be significant in limiting the use of synthetic antibiotics in animal husbandry and reducing the emergence of bacterial multidrug resistance. Further in vivo experiments of P. sporulosa diketopiperazines are important for the future application of these metabolites.
GARCH Generated Volatility Indices of Bitcoin and CRIX
Authors: Venter Pierre J. , Maré Eben
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the pricing performance of the generalised autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) option pricing model is tested when applied to Bitcoin (BTCUSD). In addition, implied volatility indices (30, 60-and 90-days) of BTCUSD and the Cyptocurrency Index (CRIX) are generated by making use of the symmetric GARCH option pricing model. The results indicate that the GARCH option pricing model produces accurate European option prices when compared to market prices and that the BTCUSD and CRIX implied volatility indices are similar when compared, this is consistent with expectations because BTCUSD is highly weighted when calculating the CRIX. Furthermore, the term structure of volatility indices indicate that short-term volatility (30 days) is generally lower when compared to longer maturities. Furthermore, short-term volatility tends to increase to higher levels when compared to 60 and 90 day volatility when large jumps occur in the underlying asset.
4′-(N-(Propan-1,2-dienyl)pyrrol-2-yl)-2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine
Authors: Husson Jérôme , Guyard Laurent
Published: June 2020

A new pyrrole-substituted terpyridine derivative that possesses an allene moiety was obtained as an “unexpected” sole product during an attempt to alkylate the N-atom of pyrrole with propargyl bromide in order to obtain an alkyne-functionalized terpyridine.
On the Effect of the Absorption Coefficient in a Differential Game of Pollution Control
Authors: Marova Ekaterina , Gromova Ekaterina , Barsuk Polina , Shagushina Anastasia
Published: June 2020

We consider various approaches for a characteristic function construction on the example of an n players differential game of pollution control with a prescribed duration. We explore the effect of the presence of an absorption coefficient in the game on characteristic functions. As an illustration, we consider a game in which the parameters are calculated based on the real ecological situation of the Irkutsk region. For this game, we compute a number of characteristic functions and compare their properties.
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in People with Achalasia
Authors: Hanisch Marcel , Wiemann Sabrina , Bohner Lauren , Jung Susanne , Kleinheinz Johannes , Igelbrink Sebastian
Published: June 2020

Background and Objective: The oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of patients with achalasia has not been evaluated to date. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the OHRQoL of patients with achalasia and to get information about the time taken for diagnosis and oral symptoms. Materials and Methods: The study was conceived of as an anonymous epidemiological survey study in people with achalasia in order to assess their OHRQoL in each case. For this, a questionnaire was developed consisting of free-text questions and of the standardized German version of the OHIP-14 questionnaire. Results: In total, forty-four questionnaires were analyzed including 31 female and 13 male participants. Regardless of gender, the mean age was 50.57 years (range: 17–78). Of the surveyed individuals, seventy-nine-point-five-five percent had been diagnosed between 25 and 60 years of age. The period from the first signs of the disease to diagnosis was 6.15 years, irrespective of gender. The overall OHIP-14 score without gender differentiation was 8.72 points (range 0–48); the mean score of female participants was 11.13 (range: 0–48), and the OHIP score of male participants was 3.15 on average. Two participants reported oral symptoms. Conclusions: The already known problem of the delayed diagnosis of rare diseases was also confirmed in the case of achalasia. Females with achalasia seemed to be significantly affected by lower OHRQoL than males with achalasia and women of the general population. Demineralization of the tooth structure was described in two participants.
Development of a High Strength Magnesium Alloy for Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Gneiger Stefan , Österreicher Johannes A. , Arnoldt Aurel R. , Birgmann Alois , Fehlbier Martin
Published: June 2020

Due to their high specific strength, magnesium alloys are promising materials for further lightweighting in mobility applications. In contrast to casting and forming processes, additive manufacturing methods allow high degrees of geometrical freedom and can generate significant weight reductions due to load-specific part design. In wire arc additive manufacturing processes, large parts can be produced with high material utilization. Process-inherent high melt temperatures and solidification rates allow for the use of magnesium alloys which are otherwise complicated to process; this enables the use of unconventional alloying systems. Here, we report the development of a Mg-Al-Zn-Ca-rare earth alloy for wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM). Compared to parts made of commercially available filler wire, the newly developed alloy achieves a higher strength (approx. +9 MPa yield strength, +25 MPa ultimate tensile strength) in WAAM.
Influence of Temperature on Mechanical Properties of AMCs
Authors: Caballero E.S. , Ternero Fátima , Urban Petr , Cuevas Francisco G. , Cintas Jesús
Published: June 2020

This research focused on studying the effect of temperature on the mechanical properties of aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) obtained by a powder metallurgy route. Aluminium powder was milled at room temperature for 5 h and using different atmospheres in order to achieve different amounts of reinforcement. The atmospheres employed were vacuum, confined ammonia, and vacuum combined with a short-time (5 and 10 min) of ammonia gas flow. After mechanical alloying, powders were consolidated by cold uniaxial pressing (850 MPa) and vacuum sintering (650 °C, 1 h). Hardness and tensile tests, on consolidated samples, were carried out at room temperature. Subsequently, the effect of temperature on both properties were evaluated. On one hand, the UTS and hardness were measured, again at room temperature, but after having subjected the sintered samples to a prolonged annealing (400 °C, 100 h). On the other hand, the tensile and hardness behaviour were also studied, while the samples are at high temperature, in particular 250 °C for UTS, and in the range between 100 and 400 °C for hardness. Results show that the use of ammonia gas allows achieving mechanical properties, at room and high temperature, higher than those of the commercial alloys EN AW 2024 T4, and EN AW 7075 T6.
Effect of the Uniaxial Compression on the GaAs Nanowire Solar Cell
Authors: Alekseev Prokhor A. , Sharov Vladislav A. , Borodin Bogdan R. , Dunaevskiy Mikhail S. , Reznik Rodion R. , Cirlin George E.
Published: June 2020

Research regarding ways to increase solar cell efficiency is in high demand. Mechanical deformation of a nanowire (NW) solar cell can improve its efficiency. Here, the effect of uniaxial compression on GaAs nanowire solar cells was studied via conductive atomic force microscopy (C-AFM) supported by numerical simulation. C-AFM I–V curves were measured for wurtzite p-GaAs NW grown on p-Si substrate. Numerical simulations were performed considering piezoresistance and piezoelectric effects. Solar cell efficiency reduction of 50% under a −0.5% strain was observed. The analysis demonstrated the presence of an additional fixed electrical charge at the NW/substrate interface, which was induced due to mismatch between the crystal lattices, thereby affecting the efficiency. Additionally, numerical simulations regarding the p-n GaAs NW solar cell under uniaxial compression were performed, showing that solar efficiency could be controlled by mechanical deformation and configuration of the wurtzite and zinc blende p-n segments in the NW. The relative solar efficiency was shown to be increased by 6.3% under −0.75% uniaxial compression. These findings demonstrate a way to increase efficiency of GaAs NW-based solar cells via uniaxial mechanical compression.
Micromirror-Embedded Coverslip Assembly for Bidirectional Microscopic Imaging
Authors: Lee Dongwoo , Kim Jihye , Song Eunjoo , Jeong Ji-Young , Jeon Eun-chae , Kim Pilhan , Lee Wonhee
Published: June 2020

3D imaging of a biological sample provides information about cellular and subcellular structures that are important in cell biology and related diseases. However, most 3D imaging systems, such as confocal and tomographic microscopy systems, are complex and expensive. Here, we developed a quasi-3D imaging tool that is compatible with most conventional microscopes by integrating micromirrors and microchannel structures on coverslips to provide bidirectional imaging. Microfabricated micromirrors had a precisely 45° reflection angle and optically clean reflective surfaces with high reflectance over 95%. The micromirrors were embedded on coverslips that could be assembled as a microchannel structure. We demonstrated that this simple disposable device allows a conventional microscope to perform bidirectional imaging with simple control of a focal plane. Images of microbeads and cells under bright-field and fluorescent microscopy show that the device can provide a quick analysis of 3D information, such as 3D positions and subcellular structures.
Dual-Mass MEMS Gyroscope Parallel Denoising and Temperature Compensation Processing Based on WLMP and CS-SVR
Authors: Chang Longkang , Cao Huiliang , Shen Chong
Published: June 2020

For the sake of decreasing the effects of noise and temperature error on the measurement accuracy of micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) gyroscopes, a denoising and temperature drift compensation parallel model method based on wavelet transform and forward linear prediction (WFLP) and support vector regression based on the cuckoo search algorithm (CS-SVR) is proposed in this paper. First, variational mode decomposition (VMD) is proposed in this paper, which is aimed at dividing the output signal of the gyroscope into intrinsic mode functions (IMFs); then, the IMFs are classified into three features—drift, mixed, and pure noise features—by the sample entropy (SE) value. Second, a wavelet transform and forward linear prediction (WFLP) are combined to remove the noise from the mixed features. Meanwhile, the drift feature is compensated by support vector regression based on the cuckoo search algorithm (CS-SVR). Finally, through reconstruction, the final signal is obtained. Experimental results demonstrate that the VMD-SE-WFLP-CS-SVR method proposed in this paper can decrease noise and compensate the temperature error effectively (angular random walking value is optimized from 1.667°/√h to 0.0667°/√h and the bias stability is reduced from 30°/h to 4°/h). In terms of denoising, the performance of the WFLP algorithm is superior to the wavelet threshold and FLP, as it combines their advantages; furthermore, in terms of temperature compensation, the proposed CS-SVR algorithm uses the cuckoo search algorithm to find the optimal parameters of SVR, improving the accuracy of the model.
The Relationships of Microscopic Evolution to Resistivity Variation of a FIB-Deposited Platinum Interconnector
Authors: Zhong Chaorong , Qi Ruijuan , Zheng Yonghui , Cheng Yan , Song Wenxiong , Huang Rong
Published: June 2020

Depositing platinum (Pt) interconnectors during the sample preparation process via a focused ion beam (FIB) system is an inescapable procedure for in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) investigations. To achieve good electrical contact and avoid irreversible damage in practical samples, the microscopic evolution mechanism of FIB-deposited Pt interconnectors need a more comprehensive understanding, though it is known that its resistivity could be affected by thermal annealing. In this work, an electron-beam FIB-deposited Pt interconnector was studied by advanced spherical aberration (Cs)-corrected TEM combined with an in situ heating and biasing system to clarify the relationship of microscopic evolution to resistivity variation. During the heating process, the Pt interconnector underwent crystallization, organic matter decomposition, Pt nanocrystal growth, grain connection, and conductive path formation, which are combined actions to cause several orders of magnitude of resistivity reduction. The comprehensive understanding of the microscopic evolution of FIB-deposited Pt material is beneficial, not only for optimizing the resistance performance of Pt as an interconnector, but also for understanding the role of C impurities with metal materials. For the purpose of wiring, annealed electron-beam (EB)-deposited Pt material can be recommended for use as an interconnector in devices for research purposes.
In Situ Geochemical Analysis of Organics in Growth Lines of Antarctic Scallop Shells: Implications for Sclerochronology
Authors: Pérez-Huerta Alberto , Walker Sally E. , Cappelli Chiara
Published: June 2020

Bivalve shells are extensively used as bioarchives for paleoclimate and paleoenvironmental reconstructions. Proxy calibrations in recent shells are the basis for sclerochronology and the applications of geochemistry data to fossils. Shell geochemical information, however, could be altered with the disappearance of intercrystalline organic matrix components, including those linked to shell growth increments, during early diagenesis. Thus, an evaluation of the chemistry of such organics is needed for the correct use of sclerochronological records in fossil shells. Here, we use atom probe tomography (APT) for in situ geochemical characterization of the insoluble organic matrix in shell growth increments in the Antarctic scallop, Adamussium colbecki. We confirm the presence of carboxylated S-rich proteoglycans, possibly involved in calcite nucleation and growth in these scallops, with significant concentrations of magnesium and calcium. Diagenetic modification of these organic components could impact proxy data based on Mg/Ca ratios, but more importantly the use of the δ15N proxy, since most of the shell nitrogen is likely bound to the amide groups of proteins. Overall, our findings reinforce the idea that shell organics need to be accounted for in the understanding of geochemical proxies.
Metal-Selective Processing from the Los Sulfatos Porphyry-Type Deposit in Chile: Co, Au, and Re Recovery Workflows Based on Advanced Geochemical Characterization
Authors: Velásquez Germán , Estay Humberto , Vela Iván , Salvi Stefano , Pablo Marcial
Published: June 2020

Sulfides extracted from porphyry-type deposits can contain a number of metals critical for the global energy transition, e.g., Co and precious metals such as Au and Re. These metals are currently determined on composite mineral samples, which commonly results in their dilution. Thus, it is possible that some metals of interest are overlooked during metallurgical processing and are subsequently lost to tailings. Here, an advanced geochemical characterization is implemented directly on metal-bearing sulfides, determining the grade of each targeted trace metal and recognizing its specific host mineral. Results show that pyrite is a prime host mineral for Co (up to 24,000 ppm) and commonly contains Au (up to 5 ppm), while molybdenite contains high grades of Re (up to 514 ppm) and Au (up to 31 ppm). Both minerals represent around 0.2% of the mineralized samples. The dataset is used to evaluate the possibility of extracting trace metals as by-products during Cu-sulfide processing, by the addition of unit operations to conventional plant designs. A remarkable advantage of the proposed workflows is that costs of mining, crushing, and grinding stages are accounted for in the copper production investments. The proposed geochemical characterization can be applied to other porphyry-type operations to improve the metallic benefits from a single deposit.
Asymmetric Pseudocapacitors Based on Interfacial Engineering of Vanadium Nitride Hybrids
Authors: Su Hailan , Xiong Tuzhi , Tan Qirong , Yang Fang , Appadurai Paul B. S. , Afuwape Afeez A. , Balogun M.-Sadeeq (Jie Tang) , Huang Yongchao , Guo Kunkun
Published: June 2020

Vanadium nitride (VN) shows promising electrochemical properties as an energy storage devices electrode, specifically in supercapacitors. However, the pseudocapacitive charge storage in aqueous electrolytes shows mediocre performance. Herein, we judiciously demonstrate an impressive pseudocapacitor performance by hybridizing VN nanowires with pseudocapacitive 2D-layered MoS2 nanosheets. Arising from the interfacial engineering and pseudocapacitive synergistic effect between the VN and MoS2, the areal capacitance of VN/MoS2 hybrid reaches 3187.30 mF cm−2, which is sevenfold higher than the pristine VN (447.28 mF cm−2) at a current density of 2.0 mA cm−2. In addition, an asymmetric pseudocapacitor assembled based on VN/MoS2 anode and TiN coated with MnO2 (TiN/MnO2) cathode achieves a remarkable volumetric capacitance of 4.52 F cm−3 and energy density of 2.24 mWh cm−3 at a current density of 6.0 mA cm−2. This work opens a new opportunity for the development of high-performance electrodes in unfavorable electrolytes towards designing high areal-capacitance electrode materials for supercapacitors and beyond.
New Amphiphilic Imidazolium/Benzimidazolium Calix[4]arene Derivatives: Synthesis, Aggregation Behavior and Decoration of DPPC Vesicles for Suzuki Coupling in Aqueous Media
Authors: Burilov Vladimir , Garipova Ramilya , Sultanova Elsa , Mironova Diana , Grigoryev Ilya , Solovieva Svetlana , Antipin Igor
Published: June 2020

In this study, new types of amphiphilic calix[4]arene derivatives bearing N-alkyl/aryl imidazolium/benzimidazolium fragments were designed and synthesized by two step transformation: Regioselective Blanc chloromethylation of distal-di-O-butyl calix[4]arene and subsequent interaction with N-Substituted imidazole/benzimidazole. Critical aggregation concentration (CAC) values were estimated using pyrene fluorescent probe. Obtained macrocycles were found to form submicron particles with electrokinetic potential +44–+57 mV in aqueous solution. For the first time it was found that amphiphilic calixarene causes the fast transformation of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) multilamellar vesicles into unilamellar ones and leads to the ordering of the lipid in membranes at the molar calixarene/DPPC ratio more than 0.07. In situ complexes of calixarene aggregates with Pd(OAc)2 were found to be active in Suzuki–Miyaura coupling of 1-bromo-4-nitrobenzene with phenylboronic acid in water. It was shown that bulky N-substituents of heterocycle decrease the catalytic activity of the aggregates. These result can be assigned to the inhibition effect of Pd(II) complex in situ formation by bulky substituents located on the aggregate surface. Embedding of the most active palladium N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complex with methylimidazolium headgroups into DPPC vesicles enhances its catalytic activity in Suzuki–Miyaura coupling.
Advancements in Plant and Microbe-Based Synthesis of Metallic Nanoparticles and Their Antimicrobial Activity against Plant Pathogens
Authors: Ali Md. Arshad , Ahmed Temoor , Wu Wenge , Hossain Afsana , Hafeez Rahila , Islam Masum Md. Mahidul , Wang Yanli , An Qianli , Sun Guochang , Li Bin
Published: June 2020

A large number of metallic nanoparticles have been successfully synthesized by using different plant extracts and microbes including bacteria, fungi viruses and microalgae. Some of these metallic nanoparticles showed strong antimicrobial activities against phytopathogens. Here, we summarized these green-synthesized nanoparticles from plants and microbes and their applications in the control of plant pathogens. We also discussed the potential deleterious effects of the metallic nanoparticles on plants and beneficial microbial communities associated with plants. Overall, this review calls for attention regarding the use of green-synthesized metallic nanoparticles in controlling plant diseases and clarification of the risks to plants, plant-associated microbial communities, and environments before using them in agriculture.
Synthesis of Active Graphene with Para-Ester on Cotton Fabrics for Antistatic Properties
Authors: Su Mengting , Chen Xiaoting , Zhang Liyuan , Min Jie
Published: June 2020

The excellent electrical properties of graphene provide a new functional finishing idea for fabricating conductive cotton fabrics with antistatic properties. This work develops a novel method for synthesizing active graphene to make cotton fabrics conductive and to have antistatic properties. The graphite was oxidized to graphene oxide (GO) by the Hummers method, and was further acid chlorinated and reacted with the para-ester to form the active graphene (JZGO). JZGO was then applied to cotton fabrics and was bonded to the fiber surface under alkaline conditions. Characterizations were done using FT-IR, XRD and Raman spectroscopy, which indicated that the para-ester group was successfully introduced onto JZGO, which also effectively improved the water dispersibility and reactivity of the JZGO. Furthermore, this study found that the antistatic properties of the fabric were increased by more than 50% when JZGO was 3% by weight under low-humidity conditions. The washing durability of the fabrics was also evaluated.
Human Milk Fatty Acid Composition of Allergic and Non-Allergic Mothers: The Ulm SPATZ Health Study
Authors: Siziba Linda P. , Lorenz Leonie , Stahl Bernd , Mank Marko , Marosvölgyi Tamas , Decsi Tamas , Rothenbacher Dietrich , Genuneit Jon
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the differences in human milk fatty acid composition in relation to maternal allergy within a large birth cohort study using statistical methods accounting for the correlations that exist in compositional data. We observed marginal differences in human milk fatty acid composition of allergic and non-allergic mothers. However, our results do not support the hypothesis that human milk fatty acid composition is influenced by allergy or that it differs between mothers with or without allergy. Observed differences in our results between transformed and untransformed fatty acid data call for re-evaluation of previous, as well as future, studies using statistical methods appropriate for compositionality of fatty acid data.
Faster Short-Chain Fatty Acid Absorption from the Cecum Following Polydextrose Ingestion Increases the Salivary Immunoglobulin A Flow Rate in Rats
Authors: Yamamoto Yuko , Morozumi Toshiya , Takahashi Toru , Saruta Juri , To Masahiro , Sakaguchi Wakako , Shimizu Tomoko , Kubota Nobuhisa , Tsukinoki Keiichi
Published: June 2020

Salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) plays a vital role in preventing upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). In our previous study, we showed that the intake of carbohydrates increases the intestinal levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which in turn increase salivary IgA levels. However, the mechanism underlying this phenomenon has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated in rats the effect of polydextrose (PDX) ingestion on salivary IgA level and SCFA concentration in cecal digesta and the portal vein. Five-week-old rats were fed with a fiber-free diet (control) or with 40 g/kg of PDX for 28 days. Compared to the control, ingestion of PDX led to a higher salivary IgA flow rate (p = 0.0013) and a higher concentration of SCFAs in the portal vein (p = 0.004). These two data were positively correlated (rs = 0.88, p = 0.0002, n = 12). In contrast, the concentration of SCFAs in cecal digesta and cecal digesta viscosity were significantly lower following PDX ingestion, compared to the control (p = 0.008 and 0.05, respectively). These findings suggest that the ingestion of PDX increases the absorption rate of SCFAs in the intestine through PDX-induced fermentation, which is accompanied by an increase in SCFA levels in the blood, and ultimately leads to increased salivary IgA levels.
(−)-Oleocanthal as a Dual c-MET-COX2 Inhibitor for the Control of Lung Cancer
Authors: Siddique Abu Bakar , Kilgore Phillip C.S.R. , Tajmim Afsana , Singh Sitanshu S. , Meyer Sharon A. , Jois Seetharama D. , Cvek Urska , Trutschl Marjan , Sayed Khalid A. El
Published: June 2020

Lung cancer (LC) represents the topmost mortality-causing cancer in the U.S. LC patients have overall poor survival rate with limited available treatment options. Dysregulation of the mesenchymal epithelial transition factor (c-MET) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) initiates aggressive LC profile in a subset of patients. The Mediterranean extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)-rich diet already documented to reduce multiple malignancies incidence. (-)-Oleocanthal (OC) is a naturally occurring phenolic secoiridoid exclusively occurring in EVOO and showed documented anti-breast and other cancer activities via targeting c-MET. This study shows the novel ability of OC to suppress LC progression and metastasis through dual targeting of c-MET and COX-2. Western blot analysis and COX enzymatic assay showed significant reduction in the total and activated c-MET levels and inhibition of COX1/2 activity in the lung adenocarcinoma cells A549 and NCI-H322M, in vitro. In addition, OC treatment caused a dose-dependent inhibition of the HGF-induced LC cells migration. Daily oral treatment with 10 mg/kg OC for 8 weeks significantly suppressed the LC A549-Luc progression and prevented metastasis to brain and other organs in a nude mouse tail vein injection model. Further, microarray data of OC-treated lung tumors showed a distinct gene signature that confirmed the dual targeting of c-MET and COX2. Thus, the EVOO-based OC is an effective lead with translational potential for use as a prospective nutraceutical to control LC progression and metastasis.
Nutrition and Sarcopenia—What Do We Know?
Authors: Ganapathy Aravinda , Nieves Jeri W.
Published: June 2020

Muscle health is important for the functionality and independence of older adults, and certain nutrients as well as dietary patterns have been shown to offer protective effects against declines in strength and function associated with aging. In this paper, micronutrients, macronutrients, and food groups have been reviewed, along with their studied effects on the prevalence and incidence of sarcopenia, as well as their ability to preserve muscle mass and optimize physical performance. Randomized controlled trials appear to suggest a critical role for dietary intake of protein in preventing sarcopenia and muscle loss, although the optimal dose and type of protein is unknown. There are some promising data regarding the role of vitamin D and sarcopenia, but it is unclear whether the dose, frequency of dose, or length of treatment impacts the efficacy of vitamin D on improving muscle mass or function. Selenium, magnesium, and omega 3 fatty acids have been studied as supplements in clinical trials and in the diet, and they appear to demonstrate a potential association with physical activity and muscle performance in older individuals. Following the Mediterranean diet and higher consumption of fruits and vegetables have been associated with improved physical performance and protection against muscle wasting, sarcopenia, and frailty.
Physiological Responses to a Single Low-Dose of Bacillus anthracis Spores in the Rabbit Model of Inhalational Anthrax
Authors: Taft Sarah C. , Nichols Tonya L. , Hines Stephanie A. , Barnewall Roy E. , Stark Gregory V. , Comer Jason E.
Published: June 2020

Credible dose–response relationships are needed to more accurately assess the risk posed by exposure to low-level Bacillus anthracis contamination during or following a release. To begin to fill this knowledge gap, New Zealand White rabbits were implanted with D70-PCT telemetry transmitters and subsequently aerosol challenged with average inhaled doses of 2.86 × 102 to 2.75 × 105 colony forming units (CFU) of B. anthracis spores. Rabbits exposed to a single inhaled dose at or above 2.54 × 104 CFU succumbed with dose-dependent time to death. Death was associated with increases above baseline in heart rate, respiration rate, and body temperature and all rabbits that died exhibited bacteremia at some point prior to death. Rabbits that inhaled doses of 2.06 × 103 CFU or lower survived to the end of the study and showed no or minimal adverse changes in the measured physiological responses in response to the challenge. Moreover, no bacteremia nor toxemia were observed in rabbits that survived to the end of the study. Overall, the data indicate that challenge doses of B. anthracis below the level sufficient to establish systemic infection do not produce observable physiological responses; however, doses that triggered a response resulted in death.
Recent Advances in Integrated Photonic Jet-Based Photonics
Authors: Minin Igor V. , Liu Cheng-Yang , Geints Yury E. , Minin Oleg V.
Published: June 2020

The study of accelerating Airy-family beams has made significant progress, not only in terms of numerical and experimental investigations, but also in conjunction with many potential applications. However, the curvature of such beams (and hence their acceleration) is usually greater than the wavelength. Relatively recently, a new type of localized wave beams with subwavelength curvature, called photonic hooks, was discovered. This paper briefly reviews the substantial literature concerning photonic jet and photonic hook phenomena, based on the photonic jet principle. Meanwhile, the photonic jet ensemble can be produced by optical wave diffraction at 2D phase diffraction gratings. The guidelines of jets’ efficient manipulation, through the variation of both the shape and spatial period of diffraction grating rulings, are considered. Amazingly, the mesoscale dielectric Janus particle, with broken shape or refractive index symmetry, is used to generate the curved photonic jet—a photonic hook—emerging from its shadow-side surface. Using the photonic hook, the resolution of optical scanning systems can be improved to develop optomechanical tweezers for moving nanoparticles, cells, bacteria and viruses along curved paths and around transparent obstacles. These unique properties of photonic jets and hooks combine to afford important applications for low-loss waveguiding, subdiffraction-resolution nanopatterning and nanolithography.
Meditation on the Body in Chapter 7 of Saddharmasmṛtyupasthānasūtra
Authors: Kritzer Robert
Published: June 2020

Saddharmasmṛtyupasthānasūtra is an Indian Buddhist sutra dating to the first half of the first millennium. Chapter 7 of the sutra consists of a very long meditation on the body, unusual in Buddhist literature for its anatomical, especially osteological, detail. The meditation also includes extensive descriptions of many internal worms as well as the internal winds that destroy the worms at the moment of death. The sutra has several elements not found in other Buddhist texts. For example, the Saddharmasmṛtyupasthānasūtra meditation on the body includes extensive descriptions of things in the external world (e.g., rivers, mountains, flowers) and designates them as the “external body”. Most strikingly, the meditation on the body found in Saddharmasmṛtyupasthānasūtra differs from the general scholarly perception of Buddhist meditations on the body in that it does not emphasize impurity or generate repulsion. Instead, the sutra guides the meditator through a dispassionate and “scientific” observation of the body and the world.
Content Analysis of Spiritual Life in Contemporary USA, India, and China
Authors: Lau Elsa , McClintock Clayton , Graziosi Marianna , Nakkana Ashritha , Garcia Albert , Miller Lisa
Published: June 2020

This study investigates the lived-experience of spiritual life in contemporary USA, India, and China. A qualitative coding frame was constructed based on participant responses to open-ended questions regarding spirituality. Qualitative analysis was facilitated by the use of Dedoose, a mixed methods software. The exploratory approach of this study takes on a cross-culturally comparative lens, and has two primary questions: (1) What are the universal aspects of lived spirituality across cultures, and (2) How does culture shape spiritual experience (e.g., typology and prevalence)? A total of 6112 participants (41% women, mean age of 29 years, range 18–75 years) were recruited, and analysis was conducted on a subset of 900 participants. The primary thematic categories derived by content analysis included religion (religious traditions, religious conversion, religious professionals, religious figures “theophany,” and religious forces “heirophany”), contemplative practice (meditation, mindful movement, prayer, and rituals), ancestors (ancestral worship, dreams about ancestors, and general mention of ancestors), natural world (animals, and nature), and metaphysical phenomena. Metaphysical categories were further parsed apart to include extrasensory perception (telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, realistic dreams, and intuitive impressions), psychokinesis, survival hypothesis (near death experiences, out of body experiences, and apparitional experiences), and faith and energy healing (recovery/remission of illness, and spiritual practitioners). Explanatory factors for similarities and differences across groups, and the origins of spirituality, are discussed.
A Nationally Representative Survey of Faith and Work: Demographic Subgroup Differences around Calling and Conflict
Authors: Ecklund Elaine Howard , Daniels Denise , Bolger Daniel , Johnson Laura
Published: June 2020

Research has increasingly highlighted the importance of business leaders allowing people to bring their whole selves to work. And religion is an important part of the whole self for many. However, we lack the large-scale national data needed to explore how Americans see the connections between religion and work. Here, from “Faith at Work: An Empirical Study”—a novel, nationally representative dataset—we explore the extent to which working Americans (N = 8767) see their work as a spiritual calling and/or experience work conflict because of their religious faith. We find that one fifth of workers identify their work as a spiritual calling. Our findings also suggest that experiences of religious conflict and discrimination are shaped not only by religious beliefs, but also social location. The initial results highlight future avenues for research and demonstrate the potential of the “Faith at Work” data to shed further light on how religion enters the workplace.
Non-Targeted Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography-High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) Fingerprints for the Chemometric Characterization and Classification of Turmeric and Curry Samples
Authors: Núñez Nerea , Vidal-Casanella Oscar , Sentellas Sonia , Saurina Javier , Núñez Oscar
Published: June 2020

In this work, non-targeted ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) fingerprints obtained by C18 reversed-phase chromatography were proposed as sample chemical descriptors for the characterization and classification of turmeric and curry samples. A total of 21 turmeric and 9 curry commercially available samples were analyzed in triplicate after extraction with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The results demonstrated the feasibility of non-targeted UHPLC-HRMS fingerprints for sample classification, showing very good classification capabilities by partial least squares regression-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), with 100% classification rates being obtained by PLS-DA when randomly selected samples were processed as “unknown” ones. Besides, turmeric curcuma species (Curcuma longa vs. Curcuma zedoaria) and turmeric Curcuma longa varieties (Madras, Erodes, and Alleppey) discrimination was also observed by PLS-DA when using the proposed fingerprints as chemical descriptors. As a conclusion, non-targeted UHPLC-HRMS fingerprinting is a suitable methodology for the characterization, classification, and authentication of turmeric and curry samples, without the requirement of using commercially available standards for quantification nor the necessity of metabolite identification.
Pigments Content (Chlorophylls, Fucoxanthin and Phycobiliproteins) of Different Commercial Dried Algae
Authors: Osório Catarina , Machado Susana , Peixoto Juliana , Bessada Sílvia , Pimentel Filipa B. , C. Alves Rita , Oliveira M. Beatriz P. P.
Published: June 2020

Algae are a complex, polyphyletic group of organisms, affordable and naturally rich in nutrients, but also valuable sources of structurally diverse bioactive substances such as natural pigments. The aim of this work was to evaluate the polar and non-polar pigment contents of different commercial dried algae (brown: Himanthalia elongata, Undaria pinnatifida, Laminaria ochroleuca; red: Porphyra spp.; and a blue-green microalga: Spirulina spp.). The pigment extraction was carried out using different solvents (100% methanol, 100% methanol acid free, 100% ethanol, 90% acetone, N,N-dimethylformamide, dimethyl sulfoxide-water (4:1, v/v) and pH 6.8 phosphate buffer), selected according to their affinity for each class of pigments. Acetone proved to be an efficient solvent to extract chlorophylls from brown and red algae, but not from Spirulina spp. Porphyra spp. presented considerably higher levels of all pigments compared to brown algae, although Spirulina spp. presented significantly higher (p < 0.05) levels of chlorophylls, carotenoids and phycobiliproteins, compared to all macroalgae. The content of fucoxanthin extracted from the three brown algae was highly correlated to the carotenoid content. Within this group, Himanthalia elongata presented the highest fucoxanthin/total carotenoids ratio. Although the yield of extraction depended on the solvent used, the algae studied herein are an interesting source of pigments of great value for a wide range of applications.
Was GW170817 a Canonical Neutron Star Merger? Bayesian Analysis with a Third Family of Compact Stars
Authors: Blaschke David , Ayriyan Alexander , Alvarez-Castillo David , Grigorian Hovik
Published: June 2020

We investigate the possibility that GW170817 was not the merger of two conventional neutron stars (NS), but involved at least one if not two hybrid stars with a quark matter core that might even belong to a third family of compact stars. To this end, we develop a Bayesian analysis method for selecting the most probable equation of state (EoS) under a set of constraints from compact star physics, which now also include the tidal deformability from GW170817 and the first result for the mass and radius determination for PSR J0030+0451 by the NICER Collaboration. We apply this method for the first time to a two-parameter family of hybrid EoS based on the DD2 model with nucleonic excluded volume for hadronic matter and the color superconducting generalized nlNJL model for quark matter. The model has a variable onset density for deconfinement and can mimic the effects of pasta phases with the possibility of producing a third family of hybrid stars in the mass-radius diagram. The main findings of this study are that: (1) the presence of multiple configurations for a given mass (twins or even triples) corresponds to a set of disconnected lines in the Λ 1 – Λ 2 diagram of tidal deformabilities for binary mergers, so that merger events from the same mass range may result in a probability landscape with different peak positions; (2) the Bayesian analysis with the above observational constraints favors an early onset of the deconfinement transition, at masses of M onset ≤ 0.8 M ⊙ with an M–R relationship that in the range of observed neutron star masses is almost indistinguishable from that of a soft hadronic Akmal, Pandharipande, and Ravenhall (APR) EoS; (3) a few, yet fictitious measurements of the NICER experiment two times more accurate than the present value and a different mass and radius that would change the posterior likelihood so that hybrid EoS with a phase transition onset in the range M onset = 1.1–1.6 M ⊙ would be favored.
Development and Application of Performance Assessment Criteria for Next-Generation Sequencing-Based HIV Drug Resistance Assays
Authors: Becker Michael G. , Liang Dun , Cooper Breanna , Le Yan , Taylor Tracy , Lee Emma R. , Wu Sutan , Sandstrom Paul , Ji Hezhao
Published: June 2020

Next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) assays outperform conventional Sanger sequencing in scalability, sensitivity, and quantitative detection of minority resistance variants. Thus far, HIVDR assays have been applied primarily in research but rarely in clinical settings. One main obstacle is the lack of standardized validation and performance evaluation systems that allow regulatory agencies to benchmark and accredit new assays for clinical use. By revisiting the existing principles for molecular assay validation, here we propose a new validation and performance evaluation system that helps to both qualitatively and quantitatively assess the performance of an NGS-based HIVDR assay. To accomplish this, we constructed a 70-specimen proficiency test panel that includes plasmid mixtures at known ratios, viral RNA from infectious clones, and anonymized clinical specimens. We developed assessment criteria and benchmarks for NGS-based HIVDR assays and used these to assess data from five separate MiSeq runs performed in two experienced HIVDR laboratories. This proposed platform may help to pave the way for the standardization of NGS HIVDR assay validation and performance evaluation strategies for accreditation and quality assurance purposes in both research and clinical settings.
PROBLEMATIKA DAKWAH KONTEMPORER
Authors: Sajadi Dahrun
Published: June 2020

Kegiatan dakwah kian hari kian mendapat tantangan yang makin kompleks. Paling tidak tantangan yang menghadang laju perkembangan dakwah Islam di Indonesia, menurut karakteristiknya ada dua bagian besar, yaitu klasik dan kontemporer. Klasik berupa praktek-praktek ritual yang bercampur animisme, dinamisme dan singkretisme. Sedangkan yang kontemporer berbentuk paham-paham keagamaan yang bercorak sekulerisme, pluralisme dan liberalisme. Selain itu, problematika dakwah hari ini juga berkenaan dengan faktor intern yang terjadi di dalam tubuh umat Islam sendiri yang dilaterbelakangi oleh unsur kebodohan, kemalasan dan ketidakmampuan. Berpangkal dari kebodohan, umat tidak kreatif dan tidak punya cara untuk melakukan ionivasi dan perubahan. Karena tidak kreatif dan tidak punya cara,  umat menjadi malas untuk berkegiatan dan mengembangkan diri. Karena kebodohan dan kemalasan teerseb ut, maka umat tidak memiliki kemampuan untuk mengembangkan diri, bersaing dengan poihak lain, apaslagi memenangkan persaingan dalam kemajuan. Selain itu pula, ada faktor ekstern yang membuat dakwah semakin berat tantangannya, di antaranya faktor gencarnya serangan pemikiran (ghazw al-fikri) yang meliputi sekularisme, pluralismee, liberalisme, ditambah lagi serangan ideologi komunisme dan syi’ah. Semoga dakwah tetap berjalan melampaui setiap problematikanya.
Category of Lands described in Nellai texts
Authors: T Chairmakkani
Published: June 2020

The article is a survey of the land and the messages that the Nellai district grammar books have realized. This article also clarifies the division of the land into five Ilakani's whereas the Nellai Texts divided them into ten. These grammar books differ from tradition in the way of grammar but with the acceptance of Conventional. The article also describes variations in the meaning of grammar.
The Effect of Different Root Canal Irrigants When Activated With Endoactivator and Manual Dynamic Agitation on Enterococcus Faecalis- A Comparative in Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Murali Dr. Nikhil , Pillai Dr. Rajesh , Varghese Dr. N.O. , Salim Dr. Afsal Abdul , Jyothilekshmi Dr. B. , Sha Dr. Shemil , Chandran Dr. Sandeep , M Dr. Mahesh
Published: June 2020

Developing a potent irrigant-irrigation activation regimen with maximum desirable properties and minimum adverse effects, also effective against microbial species prevalent in secondary infections, could be a boon to the endodontic fraternity.
Aims: To evaluate whether there is any significant difference in the removal of E.faecalis from root canals by three irrigating solutions- Q-Mix, Aloe Vera, NaOCl when combined with two irrigation protocols-Endoactivator, Manual dynamic agitation. Settings and Design:
• Tertiary care setting – Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, PMS College of Dental Science and Research, Trivandrum.
• Biogenix Lab, Poojapura, Trivandrum.
• Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanical Gardenand Research Institute, Palode.