bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep brain stimulation for pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration: A meta‐analysis
Authors: De Vloo Philippe , Lee Darrin J. , Dallapiazza Robert F. , Rohani Mohammad , Fasano Alfonso , Munhoz Renato P. , Ibrahim George M. , Hodaie Mojgan , Lozano Andres M. , Kalia Suneil K.
Published: January 2019

Background

Pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration is a rare autosomal‐recessive disorder, characterized by progressive neurodegeneration associated with brain iron accumulation. DBS has been trialed to treat related movement disorders, particularly dystonia. The objective of this study was to determine the outcome and safety of DBS for pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration.

Methods

We performed a meta‐analysis using independent participant data (n = 99) from 38 articles. Primary outcome was change in movement and disability scores of the Burke‐Fahn‐Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale 1 year postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were response rate and complications.

Results

Patients with classic‐type (n = 58) and atypical‐type (n = 15) pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration were operated on at a median age of 11 and 31 years, respectively (P < 0.001). GPi was primarily targeted (n = 87). Mean dystonia movement score improved 1 year following GPi‐DBS (‐26%; 95% confidence interval, ‐37% to ‐15%), particularly in atypical versus classic cases (‐45% vs ‐16%; P < 0.001). At least 30% improvement was observed in 34% of classic versus 73% of atypical cases (P = 0.04). Higher preoperative score and atypical type predicted larger improvement. GPi‐DBS improved dystonia disability score in atypical (‐31%; 95% confidence interval, ‐49% to ‐13%) but not classic (‐5%; 95% confidence interval, ‐17% to 8%) cases. Prevalence of surgical infections (6%) and hardware failure (7%) was similar to other dystonia etiologies. Two patients died within 3 months. There was insufficient data to describe outcome > 1 year following GPi‐DBS or with other DBS targets. Overall, small sample sizes limited generalizability.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis provides level 4 evidence that GPi‐DBS for pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration may improve dystonia movement scores in classic type and atypical type and disability scores in atypical type 1 year postoperatively. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
An Approach to Identify New Insecticides Against Myzus Persicae. In silico Study Based on Linear and Non‐linear Regression Techniques
Authors: Crisan Luminita , Borota Ana , Suzuki Takahiro , Funar‐Timofei Simona
Published: January 2019

Neonicotinoids are known to have high insecticidal potency, low mammalian toxicity and relatively tough activity for the development of resistance against aphids. A series of guadipyr insecticides, active against Myzus persicae was engaged in silico studies, based on Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), Partial Least Squares regression (PLS), Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Pharmacophore modeling. Robust and predictive models were built using correlations between the insecticidal profile, expressed by experimental pLC50 values, and molecular descriptors, calculated from the energy optimized structures. Four new potential insecticides active against Myzus persicae and their predicted pLC50 toxicity values were reported for the first time. The models presented here can be used as an approach in the screening and prioritization of chemicals in a scientific and regulatory frame and for toxicity prediction.
Power law Stokes equations with threshold slip boundary conditions: Numerical methods and implementation
Authors: Djoko Jules K. , Koko Jonas , Kucera Radek
Published: January 2019

For the power law Stokes equations driven by nonlinear slip boundary conditions of friction type, we propose three iterative schemes based on augmented Lagrangian approach and interior point method to solve the finite element approximation associated to the continuous problem. We formulate the variational problem which in this case is a variational inequality and construct the weak solution of the continuous problem. Next, we formulate two alternating direction methods based on augmented Lagrangian formalism in order to separate the velocity from the symmetric part the velocity gradient and tangential part of the velocity. Thirdly, we present some salient points of a path‐following variant of the interior point method associated to the finite element approximation of the problem. Some numerical experiments are performed to confirm the validity of the schemes and allow us to compare them.
An inverse problem for Sturm‐Liouville operators on trees with partial information given on the potentials
Authors: Bondarenko Natalia P.
Published: January 2019

We consider Sturm‐Liouville operators on geometrical graphs without cycles (trees) with singular potentials from the class
. We suppose that the potentials are known on a part of the graph, and study the so‐called partial inverse problem, which consists in recovering the potentials on the remaining part of the graph from some parts of several spectra. The main results of the paper are the uniqueness theorem and a constructive procedure for the solution of the partial inverse problem. Our method is based on the completeness and the Riesz‐basis property of special systems of vector functions and the reduction of the partial inverse problem to the complete one on a part of the graph.
Fish Oil Protects Wild Type and Uncoupling Protein 1‐Deficient Mice from Obesity and Glucose Intolerance by Increasing Energy Expenditure
Authors: Oliveira Tiago E. , Castro Érique , Belchior Thiago , Andrade Maynara L. , Chaves‐Filho Adriano B. , Peixoto Albert S. , Moreno Mayara F. , Ortiz‐Silva Milene , Moreira Rafael J. , Inague Alex , Yoshinaga Marcos Y. , Miyamoto Sayuri , Moustaid‐Moussa Naima , Festuccia William T.
Published: January 2019

Scope

The mechanisms and involvement of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) in the protection from obesity and insulin resistance induced by intake of a high‐fat diet rich in omega‐3 (n‐3) fatty acids are investigated.

Methods and results

C57BL/6J mice are fed either a low‐fat (control group) or one of two isocaloric high‐fat diets containing either lard (HFD) or fish oil (HFN3) as fat source and evaluated for body weight, adiposity, energy expenditure, glucose homeostasis, and inguinal white and interscapular brown adipose tissue (iWAT and iBAT, respectively) gene expression, lipidome, and mitochondrial bioenergetics. HFN3 intake protected from obesity, glucose and insulin intolerances, and hyperinsulinemia. This is associated with increased energy expenditure, iWAT UCP1 expression, and incorporation of n‐3 eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic fatty acids in iWAT and iBAT triacylglycerol. Importantly, HFN3 is equally effective in reducing body weight gain, adiposity, and glucose intolerance and increasing energy expenditure in wild‐type and UCP1‐deficient mice without recruiting other thermogenic processes in iWAT and iBAT, such as mitochondrial uncoupling and SERCA‐mediated calcium and creatine‐driven substrate cyclings.

Conclusion

Intake of a high‐fat diet rich in omega‐3 fatty acids protects both wild‐type and UCP1‐deficient mice from obesity and insulin resistance by increasing energy expenditure through unknown mechanisms.
ChebStaBlkCG: A block variant of ChebFilterCG
Authors: Sadkane Miloud , Touhami Ahmed
Published: January 2019

The behavior of ChebFilterCG (an algorithm that combines the Chebyshev filter and Conjugate Gradient) applied to systems with unfavorable eigenvalue distribution is examined. To improve the convergence, a hybrid approach combining a stabilized version of the block conjugated gradient with Chebyshev polynomials as preconditioners (ChebStaBlkCG) is proposed. The performance of ChebStaBlkCG is illustrated and validated on a set of linear systems. It is shown how ChebStaBlkCG can be used to accelerate the block Cimmino method and to solve linear systems with multiple right‐hand sides.
Conservative compact finite difference scheme for the N‐coupled nonlinear Klein–Gordon equations
Authors: Ji Bingquan , Zhang Luming , Zhou Xuanxuan
Published: January 2019

In this article, a compact finite difference method is developed for the periodic initial value problem of the N‐coupled nonlinear Klein–Gordon equations. The present scheme is proved to preserve the total energy in the discrete sense. Due to the difficulty in obtaining the priori estimate from the discrete energy conservation law, the cut‐off function technique is employed to prove the convergence, which shows the new scheme possesses second order accuracy in time and fourth order accuracy in space, respectively. Additionally, several numerical results are reported to confirm our theoretical analysis. Lastly, we apply the reliable method to simulate and study the collisions of solitary waves numerically.
35 years of photovoltaics: Analysis of the TISO‐10‐kW solar plant, lessons learnt in safety and performance—Part 1
Authors: Virtuani Alessandro , Caccivio Mauro , Annigoni Eleonora , Friesen Gabi , Chianese Domenico , Ballif Christophe , Sample Tony
Published: January 2019

The TISO‐10‐kW solar plant, connected to the grid in 1982, is the oldest installation of this kind in Europe. Its history is well documented, and the full set of modules has been tested indoors at regular intervals over the years. After 35 years of operation, we observe an increase in the degradation rates and that the distributions of modules' performances are drastically changing compared with previous years. Two groups of modules can be observed: (a) group 1: 21.5% of the modules show a very modest degradation, described by a Gaussian distribution with mean yearly power degradation of only −0.2%/y. (b) Group 2: 72.9% of the modules form a negatively skewed distribution with a long tail described by mode (−0.54%/y), median (−0.62%/y), and mean (−0.69%/y) values. In earlier years, decreases in performances could strongly be correlated to losses in fill factor (FF). After 35 years, the situation changes and, for a subset of modules, losses in the current (Isc) are superimposed to losses in FF. The reasons for this will become clearer in part 2, where we will present results of a detailed visual inspection on the whole set of modules and will focus on safety aspect too. We conclude that, after 35 years of operation in a temperate climate, approximately 60% (~70% if considering a ± 3% measurement uncertainty) of the modules would still satisfy a warranty criteria that module manufacturers are presently considering to apply to the technology of tomorrow: 35 years of operation with a performance threshold set at 80% of the initial value.
Proteomic Analysis of Endothelial Cells Exposed to Ultrasmall Nanoparticles Reveals Disruption in Paracellular and Transcellular Transport
Authors: Kuruvilla Jacob , Bayat Narges , Cristobal Susana
Published: January 2019

The large interactive surfaces of nanoparticles (NPs) increase the opportunities to develop NPs for vascular targeting. Proteomic analysis of endothelial cells exposed to NPs reveals the cellular response and turns the focus into the impairment of the endothelial permeability. Here, quantitative proteomics and transcriptome sequencing are combined to evaluate the effects of exposure to sub‐lethal concentrations of TiO2‐USNPs and TiO2‐NPs on human dermal microvascular endothelial cells. Endothelial cells react to preserve the semi‐permeable properties that are essential for vascular tissue fluid homeostasis, vascular development, and angiogenesis. The main impact of the exposure was alteration of functional complexes involved in cell adhesion, vesicular transport, and cytoskeletal structure. Those are the core cellular structures that are linked to the permeability and the integrity of the endothelial tissue. Moreover, the extracellular proteins uptake along wih the NPs into the endothelial cells escape the lysosomal degradation pathway. These findings improve the understanding of the interaction of NPs with endothelial cell. The effects of the studied NPs modulating cell–cell adhesion and vesicular transport can help to evaluate the distribution of NPs via intravenous administration.
Synthesis of ultra‐high molecular weight polymers by controlled production of initiating radicals
Authors: Reyhani Amin , Allison‐Logan Stephanie , Ranji‐Burachaloo Hadi , McKenzie Thomas G. , Bryant Gary , Qiao Greg G.
Published: January 2019

This study demonstrates that the gradual and slow production of initiating radicals (i.e., hydroxyl radicals here) is the key point for the synthesis of ultra‐high molecular weight (UHMW) polymers via controlled radical polymerization. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and ferrous iron (Fe2+) react via Fenton redox chemistry to initiate RAFT polymerization. This work presents two enzymatic‐mediated (i.e., Bio‐Fenton‐RAFT and Semi Bio‐Fenton‐RAFT) and one syringe pump‐driven Fenton‐RAFT polymerization processes in which the initiating radicals are carefully and gradually dosed into the reaction solution. The “livingness” of the synthesized UHMW polymers is demonstrated by chain extension and aminolysis experiments. Zimm plots obtained from static light scattering (SLS) technique are used to characterize the UHMW polymers. This Fenton‐RAFT polymerization provides access to polymers of unprecedented UHMW (Mw ~ 20 × 106 g mol−1) with potential in diverse applications. The UHMW polymers made via the controlled Fenton‐RAFT polymerization by using a syringe pump shows that it is possible to produce such materials through an easy‐to‐set up and scalable process. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1922–1930
Induced novel psbA mutation (Ala251 to Thr) in higher plants confers resistance to PSII inhibitor metribuzin in Lens culinaris
Authors: McMurray Larn S , Preston Christopher , Vandenberg Albert , Mao Dili , Bett Kirstin E , Paull Jeffrey G
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Weed competition is a major limitation to worldwide lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) production in part due to limited effective safe herbicide options. Metribuzin is a photosystem II inhibiting herbicide that provides broad spectrum weed control, however it causes excessive injury in lentil. Dose response analysis of photosystem II inhibiting herbicides and DNA sequencing of the psbA chloroplast gene occurred to quantify the spectrum and mechanism of herbicide resistance in two ethyl‐methanesulfonate (EMS) induced mutant lentils.

RESULTS

Compared to susceptible parent PBA Flash, the level of metribuzin resistance was 33‐fold for mutant M043 and 10‐fold for M009. No improvement in resistance occurred in either mutant to bromoxynil, diuron, bromacil and atrazine herbicides. Nucleotide sequencing of the psbA gene of both mutants identified a substitution at position 751 compared to PBA Flash. The resulting deduced amino acid sequence indicated an Ala251Thr substitution as being most likely responsible for the high level of metribuzin resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

The Ala251Thr substitution discovered in this study is unique in mutagenized higher plants and the first report of an induced psbA target site mutation in higher plants. This target site metribuzin resistance is likely to have a significant impact on lentil production in Australia and worldwide. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Phenotypic performance of nine genotypes of Cry1A.105/Cry2Ab2 dual‐gene resistant fall armyworm on non‐Bt and MON 89034 maize
Authors: Niu Ying , Guo Jianguo , Head Graham P , Price Paula A , Huang Fangneng
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), is the first target pest that has developed resistance to Bt crops across several countries. Leaf tissue and whole plant assays were employed to determine the survival, development, progeny production, and net reproductive rate of all nine possible genotypes of Cry1A.105/Cry2Ab2‐dual gene resistant S. frugiperda on non‐Bt and MON 89034 maize expressing the Cry1A.105/Cry2Ab2 proteins.

RESULTS

The homozygous resistant genotype was highly resistant to Bt plants. Genotypes possessing only Cry2Ab2 resistance alleles (RAs) or two Cry1A.105 RAs only were susceptible to MON 89034 with a functional dominance level (DML) of 0.0–0.07 on MON 89034 plants. In contrast, genotypes containing two Cry1A.105 plus one Cry2Ab2 RA performed well on Bt plants, with a DML of 0.11–0.78. Significant numbers of survivors on Bt plants were also observed for genotypes containing a single Cry1A.105 RA, or a Cry1A.105 plus one or two Cry2Ab2 RAs, with a DML of 0.0–0.47.

CONCLUSIONS

The fitness of individual resistant genes on pyramided Bt plants varied in the dual‐gene resistance system. Genotypes containing more Cry1A.105 RAs performed better than those possessing more Cry2Ab2 RAs. The functional dominance level of an individual resistant gene in this system is related to the DML level in its corresponding single‐gene system. Data generated from this study should fill gaps in understanding dual‐/multiple‐gene Bt resistance, as well as providing useful information for refining resistance modeling, improving resistance risk assessment, and developing management strategies for the sustainable use of pyramided Bt maize technology. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Activated Carbon Obtained from Bamboo: Synthesis, Morphological, Vibrational, and Electrical Properties and Possible Temperature Sensor
Authors: Arias‐Niquepa Rafael A. , Prías‐Barragán Jhon J. , Ariza‐Calderón Hernando , Rodríguez‐García Mario E.
Published: January 2019

In order to develop a new temperature sensor based on activated carbon (AC) samples, this work presents the synthesis, basic properties, and temperature sensor characteristics as possible future application. The AC samples are obtained from bamboo as source material via thermal decomposition method, under a controlled nitrogen low‐atmosphere, at different carbonization temperatures and activated by using NaOH at 973 K. The basic properties are studied by using SEM, EDS, BET, X‐ray diffraction, FTIR, Raman, and electrical techniques. It is found that AC exhibits morphological behavior of particles with vascular characteristics. The structural and vibrational responses suggest graphite oxide domains present in AC. Electrical characterization revealed a two‐order of magnitude increase in conductivity, possibly attributed to increased graphite oxide domains produced by desorption of some organic compounds, which benefits development of temperature sensors with negative temperature coefficient (NTC). A possible temperature sensor based on AC is proposed and implemented. The electrical resistivity of AC, as temperature sensor, exhibits a NTC at −4.7%/K, with linear current response varying from 21.1 to 37.2 mA, which is a novelty for a thermistor NTC. These results suggest that AC is an excellent candidate to develop temperature sensors in electronics.
Structure and Cytocompatibility of a Porous Biomimetic Material for Oral Tissue Wound Healing
Authors: Craciunescu Oana , Gaspar‐Pintiliescu Alexandra , Seciu Ana‐Maria , Moldovan Lucia , Zarnescu Otilia
Published: January 2019

Composite materials containing natural biocompatible polymers, specific for the extracellular matrix present in the periodontal tissue, are prepared by mixing type I soluble collagen (COL) and fibronectin (FN) as fibrillar proteins and chondroitin sulfate (CS) as polysaccharidic component. The three‐dimensional porous structure is obtained by freeze‐drying process and it is analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Specific techniques of immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are used to investigate the distribution and interaction between polymeric components within the scaffold. Light and electron microscopy observations are also performed on solutions of CS and FN to reveal their structural and morphological properties. The cytocompatibility of composite material is tested in gingival fibroblasts and osteoblast cell cultures using quantitative assays of cell viability. The results demonstrate that COL‐CS‐FN composite material has optimal characteristics for further testing as device for oral tissue wound healing.
Schisandrin C targets Keap1 and attenuates oxidative stress by activating Nrf2 pathway in Ang II‐challenged vascular endothelium
Authors: Han Jibo , Shi Xiaowen , Du Yao , Shi Fengjie , Zhang Bin , Zheng Zhanxiong , Xu Jianjiang , Jiang Liqin
Published: January 2019

Vascular endothelial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Oxidative stress is a key pathophysiological mechanism underpinning endothelial dysfunction. Schisandrin C (Sch C), a dibenzocyclooctadiene derivative of Schisandra chinensis, has antioxidative properties. Here, we report the use of Sch C as a novel therapeutic for the treatment of angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced endothelial deficits and explore the underlying mechanisms and the target of Sch C. Our results demonstrated that Sch C treatment prevents aorta oxidative stress and improves relaxation in mice, challenged with subcutaneous infusion of Ang II. In addition, Sch C significantly ameliorates Ang II‐induced oxidative stress in rat aortic endothelial cells. We then discovered that these antioxidative effects of Sch C are mediated through the induction of nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (Nrf2). Using an expression plasmid and molecular docking, we identified that Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein‐1 (Keap1), a negative regulator of Nrf2, is a target of Sch C. These findings provide evidence for the potential use of Sch C as an antioxidative agent for treatment of vascular endothelial deficits.
Retracted: Tanshinol relieves lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammatory injury of HaCaT cells via down‐regulation of microRNA‐122
Authors: Wang Hui , Wei Shujing
Published: January 2019

This study investigated the effects of tanshinol (TAN) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced human keratinocytes inflammatory injury and underlying potential molecular mechanisms. Viability and apoptosis of HaCaT cells were assessed using MTT assay and Annexin V‐FITC/PI staining, respectively. Quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction was performed to measure the expression of microRNA‐122 (miR‐122) in HaCaT cells. Cell transfection was conducted to up‐regulate the expression of miR‐122. Western blotting was used to detect the protein expression levels of key factors involved in cell apoptosis, inflammatory response, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) pathways. We found that LPS treatment induced HaCaT cell inflammatory injury by inhibiting cell viability, promoting cell apoptosis, and enhancing the protein expression levels of cyclooxygenase 2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase. TAN treatment relieved LPS‐induced HaCaT cell inflammatory injury. Moreover, TAN treatment attenuated LPS‐induced activation of JNK and NF‐κB pathways in HaCaT cells. Furthermore, TAN treatment alleviated LPS‐induced up‐regulation of miR‐122. Overexpression of miR‐122 reversed the effects of TAN on LPS‐induced HaCaT cell inflammatory injury and activation of JNK and NF‐κB pathways. In conclusion, TAN exerted anti‐inflammatory and protective effects on keratinocytes injury. TAN relieved LPS‐induced inflammatory injury of human HaCaT cells via down‐regulating miR‐122 and then inactivating JNK and NF‐κB pathways.
Deciphering of Ligand‐to‐Metal Charge‐Transfer Process: Synthesis, Spectroscopic and Theoretical Study
Authors: Ghosh Swadesh , Singharoy Dipti , Naskar Jnan Prakash , Bhattacharya Subhash Chandra
Published: January 2019

Many reports on metal ion sensing applications are available in literature but the mechanism of selectivity is not clear. Here the synthesis and characterization of a Schiff base Furan‐2‐carboxylic acid pyren‐1‐ylmethylene‐hydrazide (PYFH) has been described with selective detection of copper(II) metal ion among different metal ions by UV–vis, fluorescence and HRMS spectroscopic methods. The S2− ion (Na2S) was added to the PYFH:Cu2+ complex for checking reversibility of PYFH by fluorescence, fluorescence microscopic imaging and molecular logic gate construction (combination of NOT and OR gate). From the experimental findings the reason for selectivity of Cu2+ metal ion among a series of metal ions is not clear. So, to explore the causes of selectivity of Cu2+ metal ion by PYFH, Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculation was conducted for free PYFH and various sets of metal ions individually with PYFH. From DFT calculation it was understandable that selectivity of PYFH towards Cu2+ ions occurred due to lowering of HOMO‐LUMO energy of PYFH:Cu2+ composites (‐8.46 & −5.80 eV) compared to free PYFH (‐5.56 & −2.15 eV). Whereas energy of HOMO and LUMO with other metals ions (PYFH:Mn+) are ∼‐5.50 and ∼‐2.24 eV respectively, as a result PYFH does not get any extra stability.
High Photosensitized Singlet Oxygen Generating Zinc and Chloroindium Phthalocyanines Bearing (4‐isopropylbenzyl)oxy Groups as Potential Agents for Photophysicochemical Applications
Authors: Güzel Emre , Arslan Barış S. , Atmaca Göknur Yaşa , Nebioğlu Mehmet , Erdoğmuş Ali
Published: January 2019

In this study, novel phthalonitrile derivatives (1 and 2) and their peripherally and non‐peripherally tetra (4‐isopropylbenzyl)oxy‐substituted zinc and chloroindium phthalocyanine complexes (3‐6) have been prepared for the first time. The synthesized phthalonitrile derivatives and phthalocyanine complexes were characterized spectroscopically. Not only the chloroindium phthalocyanines but also zinc phthalocyanines are essentially free from aggregation in THF at the studied micromolar concentration. The purpose is to compare the effects of two types of substitution on the phthalocyanines to be used as sensitizers in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Photophysical and photochemical properties of all phthalocyanines are investigated and the results showed that the peripheral phthalocyanines more effectively photooxidize DPBF through singlet oxygen. The photochemical results showed that both ZnPc (3 and 5) and InPc (4 and 6) can be used as sensitizers in PDT because of their very high singlet oxygen quantum yields (range from 0.80 to 0.97).
Antibacterial Activity of Fe3O4/Cu Nanocomposite: Green Synthesis Using Carum carvi L. Seeds Aqueous Extract
Authors: Heydari Rouhollah , Koudehi Masoumeh Foroutan , Pourmortazavi Seied Mahdi
Published: January 2019

Here, we describe the using of biosynthesis method for the synthesis of Fe3O4, Cu nanoparticles and Fe3O4/Cu nanocomposite using Carum carvi extract and assessment of their antibacterial activity. Our approach is eco‐friendly, non‐toxic and clean. These nanoparticles/nanocomposites were characterized by UV‐Vis, FTIR, XRD, EDX and SEM, techniques. The findings indicated that the of Fe3O4 and Cu NPs, and Fe3O4/Cu nanocomposite have an average particle size of 25 nm, 37 nm, and 62 nm, respectively. On the other side, the Fe3O4 NPs do not have the antibacterial activity, but when they combine with Cu NPs with antibacterial activity, the Fe3O4/Cu nanocomposite shows the antimicrobial activity.
Syntheses, Structures and Topology Variations of Metal Organic Frameworks Built From a Semi‐Rigid Tetracarboxylate Ligand
Authors: Pal Tapan K.
Published: January 2019

A flexible ether bridged tetracarboxylic ligand, 5‐((3,5‐dicarboxybenzyl)oxy)isophthalic acid (H4L) has been used to construct five metal organic frameworks under solvothermal condition. Complex 4 and 5 have been synthesized in presence of pyridine based coligands, 6′‐(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐4,2′:4′,4′′‐terpyridine (L1). The products formed under these conditions are formulated as {[(Ni)1.5(L)(C5H5N)(H2O)](3H2O)}n (1), {[(Co)1.5(L)](C5H6N)(1.5H2O)}n (2), {[(Ni)(L)0.5(H2O)2.5](3H2O)}n (3), {[(Co)2(L)(L1)(DMF)(H2O)] (DMF)(4H2O)}n (4), {[(Cd)2(L)(L1)(DMF)(H2O)](DMF)(6H2O)}n (5). All of these complexes have been characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, elemental analysis, and powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) measurements. Compound 1 is one 2D layer structure, and compounds 2–5 are 3D coordination polymers (CPs)“. Interestingly, compound 4 and 5 are isostructural having 2D structure which lead to 3D by weak π⋅⋅⋅ π interaction between the two layers. Topological analysis of these complexes have been performed which reveals that 1 is (3,6)‐connected kgd net, 2 is (4,8)‐connected flu; sqc169 net, 3 is (4,4)‐connected dia diamond net while 4 and 5 have the same, (3,4)‐connected fsg net. Solid state photoluminescent studies were carried out of the complex 5 upon excitation at 290 nm and emission occurs at 453 nm which is attributed due to the ligand to metal charge transfer transition where as emission of the ligand L and L1 observed at 380 nm and 395 nm respectively.
Biophysical Phenotyping and Modulation of ALDH+ Inflammatory Breast Cancer Stem‐Like Cells
Authors: Chen Weiqiang , Allen Steven G. , Qian Weiyi , Peng Zifeng , Han Shuo , Li Xiang , Sun Yubing , Fournier Chelsea , Bao Liwei , Lam Raymond H. W. , Merajver Sofia D. , Fu Jianping
Published: January 2019

Cancer stem‐like cells (CSCs) have been shown to initiate tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis in many cancer types. Although identification of CSCs through specific marker expression helps define the CSC compartment, it does not directly provide information on how or why this cancer cell subpopulation is more metastatic or tumorigenic. In this study, the functional and biophysical characteristics of aggressive and lethal inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) CSCs at the single‐cell level are comprehensively profiled using multiple microengineered tools. Distinct functional (cell migration, growth, adhesion, invasion and self‐renewal) and biophysical (cell deformability, adhesion strength and contractility) properties of ALDH+ SUM149 IBC CSCs are found as compared to their ALDH− non‐CSC counterpart, providing biophysical insights into why CSCs has an enhanced propensity to metastasize. It is further shown that the cellular biophysical phenotype can predict and determine IBC cells' tumorigenic ability. SUM149 and SUM159 IBC cells selected and modulated through biophysical attributes—adhesion and stiffness—show characteristics of CSCs in vitro and enhance tumorigenicity in in vivo murine models of primary tumor growth. Overall, the multiparametric cellular biophysical phenotyping and modulation of IBC CSCs yields a new understanding of IBC's metastatic properties and how they might develop and be targeted for therapeutic interventions.
Electrostatically Directed Assembly of Nanostructured Composites for Enhanced Photocatalysis
Authors: Kohsakowski Sebastian , Pulisova Petra , Mitoraj Dariusz , Neubert Susann , Biskupek Johannes , Kaiser Ute , Reichenberger Sven , Marzun Galina , Beranek Radim
Published: January 2019

It is well established that the activity of photocatalysts can be improved by deposition of redox catalysts, which can effectively extract the photogenerated charge carriers, enhance the rate of interfacial reactions, and thus suppress undesired recombination processes. For optimum performance, a high degree of control over the loading, size, and surface catalytic properties of redox catalyst particles is desirable. Herein, a novel, highly controllable, and versatile method for preparation of TiO2 catalyst composites is reported. It starts with the generation of “naked” (ligand‐free) nanoparticles of CuOx or FeOx by pulsed laser ablation of metal oxide targets in water. In the next step, a nearly quantitative colloidal deposition of CuOx and FeOx nanoparticles onto anatase TiO2 substrate is achieved by adjusting the pH in order to establish electrostatic attraction between the colloids and the substrate. The resulting TiO2–CuOx and TiO2–FeOx assemblies with optimum catalyst amount (≈0.5 wt%) exhibit photocatalytic rates in degradation of 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid enhanced by a factor of ≈1.5 as compared to pristine TiO2 under simulated solar irradiation. The electrostatically directed assembly of TiO2 with ligand‐free catalyst nanoparticles generated by pulsed laser ablation is thus demonstrated as a viable tool for preparation of composites with enhanced photocatalytic performance.
Recent Advances in Halide Perovskite Single‐Crystal Thin Films: Fabrication Methods and Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Wang Xu‐Dong , Li Wen‐Guang , Liao Jin‐Feng , Kuang Dai‐Bin
Published: January 2019

Metal‐halide perovskites have aroused intense interest in the scientific community by virtue of their numerous remarkable optoelectronic properties, which render them promising candidates for applications in various optoelectronic fields, such as solar cells, light‐emitting diodes, photodetectors, and lasers. Compared with perovskite polycrystalline films and nanocrystals, grain‐boundary‐free single‐crystal perovskites possess lower trap‐state densities, higher carrier mobilities, and longer diffusion lengths, which are supposed to deliver superior optoelectronic performance. However, the thickness (a few millimeters) of typical bulk single‐crystal perovskites are much greater than their carrier diffusion length (e.g., MAPbI3 SC, ≈175 µm), which results in severe charge accumulation and significantly hinders their development. To this end, fabricating single‐crystal thin films is of great importance for further exploring the potential of single‐crystal perovskites in various applications. In this paper, the rapid and prosperous developments in the fabrication methods of perovskite single‐crystal thin films are systematically summarized and recent encouraging progress in their physical and chemical properties as well as the optoelectronic applications (solar cells, photodetectors, and light‐emitting diodes) of single‐crystal thin films are reviewed. Finally, the challenges and a brief outlook for further improving the quality of perovskite single‐crystal thin films and optimizing the device design are highlighted.
Verification of structural performance of connections between reinforced concrete shear walls and outriggers in high‐rise buildings
Authors: Shim Hak B. , Kim Yousok , Park Hyo S.
Published: January 2019

The outrigger and belt truss system is the most commonly used lateral load‐resisting system for high‐rise buildings in which the external mega columns and core walls are connected via outriggers and belt trusses. The shear studs, which are used for the connections between the outriggers and the core walls, are subjected to pull‐out loading because of the lateral load. Although various types of shear studs have been developed based on analytical and experimental studies, most previous studies on the behavior and strength of shear studs have been based on push‐out tests. It is necessary to verify the structural performance of shear studs subjected to pull‐out loading before their field installation at the connections in the structural system of high‐rise buildings. In this study, experiments were conducted on full‐scale pull‐out test specimens made of materials having the same strength as those used in an actual high‐rise building structure. The experimental results show that the shear strength of the connection can be improved by approximately 7.9% using double‐headed studs instead of normal‐strength studs.
QCD-aware recursive neural networks for jet physics
Authors: Louppe Gilles , Cho Kyunghyun , Becot Cyril , Cranmer Kyle
Published: January 2019

Abstract

Recent progress in applying machine learning for jet physics has been built upon an analogy between calorimeters and images. In this work, we present a novel class of recursive neural networks built instead upon an analogy between QCD and natural languages. In the analogy, four-momenta are like words and the clustering history of sequential recombination jet algorithms is like the parsing of a sentence. Our approach works directly with the four-momenta of a variable-length set of particles, and the jet-based tree structure varies on an event-by-event basis. Our experiments highlight the flexibility of our method for building task-specific jet embeddings and show that recursive architectures are significantly more accurate and data efficient than previous image-based networks. We extend the analogy from individual jets (sentences) to full events (paragraphs), and show for the first time an event-level classifier operating on all the stable particles produced in an LHC event.
Bootstrap approach to geometrical four-point functions in the two-dimensional critical Q-state Potts model: a study of the s-channel spectra
Authors: Jacobsen Jesper Lykke , Saleur Hubert
Published: January 2019

Abstract

We revisit in this paper the problem of connectivity correlations in the Fortuin-Kasteleyn cluster representation of the two-dimensional Q-state Potts model conformal field theory. In a recent work [1], results for the four-point functions were obtained, based on the bootstrap approach, combined with simple conjectures for the spectra in the different fusion channels. In this paper, we test these conjectures using lattice algebraic considerations combined with extensive numerical studies of correlations on infinite cylinders. We find that the spectra in the scaling limit are much richer than those proposed in [1]: they involve in particular fields with conformal weight h

r,s
where r is dense on the real axis.
Comments on Lorentz transformations, dressed asymptotic states and Hawking radiation
Authors: Javadinezhad Reza , Kol Uri , Porrati Massimo
Published: January 2019

Abstract

We consider two applications of the factorization of infrared dynamics in QED and gravity. The first is a redefinition of the Lorentz transformations that makes them commute with supertranslations. The other is the process of particle creation near a black hole horizon. For the latter we show that the emission of soft particles factors out of the S-matrix in the fixed-background approximation and to leading order in the soft limit. The factorization is implemented by dressing the incoming and outgoing asymptotic states with clouds of soft photons and soft gravitons. We find that while the soft photon cloud has no effect, the soft graviton cloud induces a phase shift in the Bogolyubov coefficients relating the incoming and outgoing modes. However, the flux of outgoing particles, given by the absolute value of the Bogolyubov coefficient, is insensitive to this phase.
Influence of hexagonal phase transformation in laser prepared PcBN cutting tools on tool wear in machining of Inconel 718
Authors: Breidenstein B. , Grove T. , Krödel A. , Sitab R.
Published: January 2019

Laser preparation of PcBN cutting tools is a new approach to improve the performance of different machining applications. Laser machining is robust and wear-free which offers benefits compared to conventional methods, such as grinding and brushing. Moreover, the conventional preparation methods are limited for the preparation of super hard cutting tool materials and the generation of complicated geometrical features because of high tool wear. A highly demanding application of PcBN cutting tools is the machining of Ni-based super alloys such as Inconel 718. For various high and low temperature applications in aerospace systems this material is popular because of its temperature, oxidation and corrosion resistant characteristics. However, these characteristics and an intense work hardening behavior make Inconel 718 a hard-to-cut material. A possibility to increase the performance in cutting hard-to-cut materials is the application of a process specific cutting edge rounding prepared by laser machining. However, there is no available knowledge neither on the influence of laser machining on the material properties of PcBN nor on the influence on the cutting performance. This research deals with the effect of laser preparation on the cutting performance of PcBN tools in machining Inconel 718. Different laser preparation strategies are applied to provide necessary knowledge regarding the laser preparation process. The formation of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) on the surface is found for all of the applied laser preparation strategies, however the degree of the cBN to hBN transformation differs between the applied strategies. Within the cutting experiments the wear behavior is closely linked to the formation of hBN, which decreases the hardness of the PcBN material. Furthermore, process forces for the laser prepared tools are reduced compared to the conventional tools, which might be an influence of the hBN acting as a solid lubricant. Finally, it could be shown that the achieved tool life of laser prepared tools is at least on a par with conventionally machined tools.
Decasticization, Dignity, and ‘Dirty Work’ at the Intersections of Caste, Memory, and Disaster
Authors: Mahalingam Ramaswami , Jagannathan Srinath , Selvaraj Patturaja
Published: January 2019

In this qualitative study we examine the role of caste, class, and Dalit janitorial labor in the aftermath of floods in Chennai, India, in 2015. Drawing from a variety of sources including interviews, social media, and news coverage, we studied how Dalit (formerly known as ‘untouchable’) janitors were treated during the performance of janitorial labor for cleaning the city. Our study focuses on two theoretical premises: (a) caste-based social relations reproduce inequalities by devaluing Dalit labor as ‘dirty work’; and (b) Dalit subjectivities, labor, and sufferings including occupational hazards become invisible and ungrievable forcing Dalits to provide a counter narrative to preserve the memory of their trauma and dignity injuries. We find that the discursive construction of janitorial labor as dirty work forced Dalit janitors to work in appalling and unsafe working conditions. Janitors suffered several dignity injuries in terms of social exclusion and a lack of recognition for their efforts and accomplishments. Specifically, we examine various ways through which caste, dirty work, and dignity intersected in the narrative accounts of Dalit janitors. We also explore memory and how processes of remembering and forgetting affected the dignity claims of Dalit janitors.
Stratified shear instability in a field of pre-existing turbulence
Authors: Kaminski A. K. , Smyth W. D.
Published: January 2019

Turbulent mixing of heat and momentum in the stably-stratified ocean interior occurs in discrete events driven by vertical variations of the horizontal velocity. Typically, these events have been modelled assuming an initially laminar stratified shear flow which develops wavelike instabilities, becomes fully turbulent, and then relaminarizes into a stable state. However, in the real ocean there is always some level of turbulence left over from previous events. Using direct numerical simulations, we show that the evolution of a stably-stratified shear layer may be significantly modified by pre-existing turbulence. The classical billow structure associated with Kelvin–Helmholtz instability is suppressed and eventually eliminated as the strength of the initial turbulence is increased. A corresponding energetics analysis shows that potential energy changes and dissipation of kinetic energy depend non-monotonically on initial turbulence strength, with the largest effects when initial turbulence is present but insufficient to prevent billow formation. The mixing efficiency decreases with increasing initial turbulence amplitude as the development of the Kelvin–Helmholtz billow, with its large pre-turbulent mixing efficiency, is arrested.
PROVISIONAL ARGUMENTATION AND LUCRETIUS’ HONEYED CUP
Authors: Nethercut Jason S.
Published: January 2019

Given that Lucretius offers a systematic and cohesive explanation of the workings of nature, we should not expect inconsistencies in his poem. The explanation presented by Lucretius emphatically rejects any interventionist divine machinery of the cosmos, offering in its place the eminently regular dynamics of atomic configuration and dissolution, which can explain everything that pertains to natural philosophy without necessitating the activity of any divinity. The reader who understands the basics of Lucretius’ philosophy, therefore, should be surprised that theDRNbegins with an anthropomorphic description of the goddess Venus, whom the poet petitions to intervene actively in human affairs. Lucretius gradually refines this initial presentation of the goddess’ essence throughout the poem, suggesting that the Venus who inaugurates the poem must be nuanced once one has learned the basic principles of Epicurean philosophy. At the end ofDRN4, Venus is presented not as a divine being but as nothing more than the sexual drive shared by all creatures in nature (haec Venus est nobis, 4.1058). Historically scholars have been keen to ‘correct’ perceived inconsistencies such as this, either by arguing that such imperfections derive from later interpolators or by appealing to the incomplete nature of the text as we possess it. Of course, no one has suggested that Lucretius would have changed or removed the proem, so the Venus problem remains an issue. One major aim of this article is to show that the process we witness with Lucretius’ Venus is not inconsistent but programmatic, a point grasped by many with regard to Venus herself but not in respect to theDRNas a whole. In other words, this article extends this insight about Lucretius’ Venus, whose providential attributes are only provisionally attached to her at the outset of the poem and, in due course, are completely removed. In fact, I will argue that the technique of gradually redefining initial propositions—a process I will refer to as provisional argumentation—fundamentally informs Lucretius’ famous metaphor of the honeyed cup, and I will suggest that we ought to recognize this technique as a major aspect of Lucretius’ discursive method throughout theDRN.
Samuel Clarke on Agent Causation, Voluntarism, and Occasionalism
Authors: Sangiacomo Andrea
Published: January 2019

Argument

This paper argues that Samuel Clarke's account of agent causation (i) provides a philosophical basis for moderate voluntarism, and (ii) both leads to and benefits from the acceptance of partial occasionalism as a model of causation for material beings. Clarke's account of agent causation entails that for an agent to be properly called an agent (i.e. causally efficacious), it is essential that the agent is free to choose whether to act or not. This freedom is compatible with the existence of conceptually necessary connections. Hence, Clarke can harmonize God's freedom of choosing with the existence of eternal and necessary relations among things. Moreover, in Clarke's account, only intelligent entities can be properly understood as efficacious causes. Beings deprived of intelligence are not agents or efficacious causes at all and their effects are thus the result of the immediate action of some intelligent being operating upon them.
Introduction of a New EMS Protocol Using the Communities of Practice Educational Model
Authors: Fratta Kyle A. , Fishe Jennifer N. , Anders Jennifer F. , Smith Tessa G.
Published: January 2019

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) protocol implementation can be a challenging endeavor given the large and diverse provider workforce. These efforts can be even more challenging given training restrictions, career and volunteer combination EMS agencies, and inconsistent work schedules. In an effort to educate as many providers as possible in a relatively short time, the community of practice educational model was used during a new evidence-based EMS protocol implementation. This model identifies providers who are enthusiastic during initial training as advocates. These advocates then continue to educate their peers going forward. This allows for the initial educational effort to continue to propagate during pilot testing and beyond. During this protocol implementation, a total of 17 educational visits were made to EMS stations and 43 providers were identified as advocates.

FrattaKA, FisheJN, AndersJF, SmithTG. Introduction of a new EMS protocol using the communities of practice educational model. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2019;34(1):108–109.