bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymer Stabilized Ferroelectric Liquid Crystals and their Applications
Authors: Furue Hirokazu
Published: January 2019

The polymer stabilization of ferroelectric liquid crystals is reviewed with a particular emphasis on its usefulness for applications in display-related devices. Different scenarios for grayscale generation from polymer-stabilized ferroelectric liquid crystals (PSFLCs) are outlined, based on stabilization in the smectic A* as well as in the smectic C* phase, and also in relation to applied electric fields.
Polymer Modified Nanoparticle Laden Liquid Crystals
Authors: Dierking Ingo
Published: January 2019

Recently, the stabilization and modification of liquid crystals via dispersed particles has attracted increased research attention. This method and the respective materials can be combined with methods of polymer modification, so as to achieve an amplified impact on stabilization and property tuning. Examples are provided for PDLCs as well as PSLCs, where effects on polymer morphology are discussed alongside those on materials performance.
NH2-MIL-53(Al) nanocrystals: a fluorescent probe for the fast detection of aromatic nitro-compounds and ions in aqueous systems
Authors: Xu Shuo , Ni Yonghong
Published: January 2019

Fluorescent NH2-MIL-53(Al) nanocrystals used for the fast detection of ANCs and ions in aqueous systems were fabricated by a solvothermal route.
Mega-stokes pyrene ceramide conjugates for STED imaging of lipid droplets in live cells
Authors: O′ Connor Darragh , Byrne Aisling , Berselli Guilherme B. , Long Conor , Keyes Tia E.
Published: January 2019

Lipid droplets are dynamic subcellular organelles that participate in a range of physiological processes including metabolism, regulation and lipid storage.
Quantitative determination and validation of topiramate and its tablet formulation by 1H-NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Qin Lingping , Wang Xinxian , Lu Dingqiang
Published: January 2019

An effective 1H-qNMR method for the assay of topiramate has been established, which is significant for the quality control of topiramate.
A peptide-modified solid lipid nanoparticle formulation of paclitaxel modulates immunity and outperforms dacarbazine in a murine melanoma model
Authors: Banerjee Indranil , De Manjarika , Dey Goutam , Bharti Rashmi , Chattopadhyay Sankha , Ali Nahid , Chakrabarti Partha , Reis Rui L. , Kundu Subhas C. , Mandal Mahitosh
Published: January 2019

Somatostatin receptor (SSTR) analog modified nanoparticles of paclitaxel (PSM) showed a superior anti-melanoma effect by inducing a favorable systemic immune response.
IR780-based light-responsive nanocomplexes combining phase transition for enhancing multimodal imaging-guided photothermal therapy
Authors: Liu Mingzhu , Zhang Ping , Deng Liming , Guo Dan , Tan Mixiao , Huang Ju , Luo Yuanli , Cao Yang , Wang Zhigang
Published: January 2019

Synthesis of IR780-based light-responsive nanocomplexes and using phase transition for enhancing multimodal imaging-guided photothermal therapy.
Improving LSPR sensing performance using multilayered composition graded Ag–Cu nanotriangle arrays
Authors: Larson Steven , Yang Zilan , Zhao Yiping
Published: January 2019

We demonstrate a novel deposition strategy for graded nanotriangle arrays, showing that graded boundaries can improve plasmon resonance sensing.
Organophosphine-free copper-catalyzed isothiocyanation of amines with sodium bromodifluoroacetate and sulfur
Authors: Feng Wei , Zhang Xing-Guo
Published: January 2019

A new copper-catalyzed isothiocyanation of amines with sodium bromodifluoroacetate and sulfur for the synthesis of isothiocyanates and various heterocycles is described.
Boronate-crosslinked polysaccharide conjugates for pH-responsive and targeted drug delivery
Authors: Zhang Yu-Hui , Zhang Ying-Ming , Yu Jie , Wang Jie , Liu Yu
Published: January 2019

A polysaccharide nanoconjugate was fabricated from N-(2-aminoethyl)-gluconamide-grafted hyaluronic acid and bortezomib, displaying pH-responsive targeted drug release and higher anticancer effect.
Ultrafast excitation energy transfer in a benzimidazole–naphthopyran donor–acceptor dyad
Authors: Wang Shuangqing , Bohnsack Mats , Megow Sebastian , Renth Falk , Temps Friedrich
Published: January 2019

Excitation energy transfer inducing molecular switching was studied in a prototypical dyad consisting of a benzimidazole fluorophore and a naphthopyran molecular switch.
Anticancer drug impact on DNA – a study by neutron spectroscopy coupled with synchrotron-based FTIR and EXAFS
Authors: Batista de Carvalho Ana L. M. , Mamede Adriana P. , Dopplapudi Asha , Garcia Sakai Victoria , Doherty James , Frogley Mark , Cinque Gianfelice , Gardner Peter , Gianolio Diego , Batista de Carvalho Luís A. E. , Marques M. Paula M.
Published: January 2019

Complementary information on drug–DNA interplay has been achieved for Pt/Pd anticancer agents, by a combined QENS, SR-FTIR-ATR and EXAFS approach.
Charge-transfer state dynamics in all-polymer solar cells: formation, dissociation and decoherence
Authors: Huang Jiaqing , Mo Yijie , Yao Yao
Published: January 2019

The dissociation of CT states takes place within an ultrafast timescale and manifests a decoherence scenario.
Depletion driven self-assembly of block copolymer solutions by homopolymers
Authors: Yang Tao , Lei Zhen , Yang Shuang , Chen Er-Qiang
Published: January 2019

The addition of a non-adsorbing homopolymer to a block copolymer solution provides a convenient strategy for regulating its self-assembly.
De novo prediction of cross-effect efficiency for magic angle spinning dynamic nuclear polarization
Authors: Mentink-Vigier Frédéric , Barra Anne-Laure , van Tol Johan , Hediger Sabine , Lee Daniel , De Paëpe Gaël
Published: January 2019

From the polarizing agent geometry and EPR properties to the prediction of magic angle spinning dynamic nuclear polarization efficiency.
Perovskite precursor solution chemistry: from fundamentals to photovoltaic applications
Authors: Jung Minsu , Ji Sang-Geun , Kim Gwisu , Seok Sang Il
Published: January 2019

The perovskite precursor solution chemistry is of paramount importance for well-controlled nucleation/crystal growth in solution-processed perovskite solar cells.
Spectroscopy of temporary anion states: Renner–Teller coupling and electronic autodetachment in copper difluoride anion
Authors: Lyle Justin , Jagau Thomas-C. , Mabbs Richard
Published: January 2019

Internal level structures of temporary anion states (resonances) are probed using action spectroscopy obtained from photoelectron imaging of CuF2−.
Gene expression profile-based drug screen identifies SAHA as a novel treatment for NAFLD
Authors: Cheng Zhujun , Wen Yusong , Liang Bowen , Chen Siyang , Liu Yujun , Wang Zang , Cheng Jiayu , Tang Xiaoli , Xin Hongbo , Deng Libin
Published: January 2019

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide.
PU nanocomposites from bifunctional nanoparticles: impact of liquid interphase on mechanical properties
Authors: Pessan Cibele Carneiro , Lima Bruno Henrique Ramos de , Leite Edson Roberto
Published: January 2019

Molten organic shell of hybrid Mag@PB1000 nanoparticles, covalently attached to the matrix, yields unexpected mechanical properties.
Synthesis, crystal structure and photoluminescence studies of [Eu(dbm)3(impy)] and its polymer-based hybrid film
Authors: Hasan Najmul , Iftikhar Khalid
Published: January 2019

An eight-coordinate Eu(iii) complex with 1,3-dibenzoylmethane (Hdbm) and 2-(1H-imidazol-2-yl)pyridine (impy), [Eu(dbm)3(impy)], was synthesized and characterizedviaelemental analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, ESI-MS+studies and thermal analysis (TGA/DTA).
Dual role of nickel foam in NiCoAl-LDH ensuring high-performance for asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Li Peiying , Jiao Yang , Yao Shunyu , Wang Lixin , Chen Gang
Published: January 2019

The synergistic effect between nickel and cobalt ions at proper proportions with hierarchical three-dimensional porous networks could enhance conductivity and provide more active sites for a high performance asymmetric supercapacitor.
Bandgap-controlled hollow polyaniline nanostructures synthesized by Mn-dependent nano-confined polymerization
Authors: Choi Jihye , Kang Byunghoon , Kim Hyun-Ouk , Suh Jin-Suck , Haam Seungjoo , Yang Jaemoon
Published: January 2019

Bandgap-controlled hollow polyaniline nanostructures prepared by Mn-mediated nanoconfined polymerization.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity for water splitting of blue-phase GeS and GeSe monolayers via biaxial straining
Authors: Gu Di , Tao Xiaoma , Chen Hongmei , Zhu Weiling , Ouyang Yifang , Peng Qing
Published: January 2019

Enhanced photocatalytic activity for water splitting of blue-phase GeS and GeSe monolayers via biaxial straining.
Dynamics of amphiphilic block copolymers in an aqueous solution: direct imaging of micelle formation and nanoparticle encapsulation
Authors: Li Chang , Tho Che Chen , Galaktionova Daria , Chen Xin , Král Petr , Mirsaidov Utkur
Published: January 2019

In situTEM imaging reveals the dynamics of micelle formation and nanoparticle encapsulation.
Recent advances in transition metal-catalyzed C(sp2)–H nitration
Authors: Song Li-Rui , Fan Zhoulong , Zhang Ao
Published: January 2019

This review updates advances of direct C(sp2)–H nitration for the synthesis of nitroaromatic compounds and the mechanisms during the past decade.
Phosphine-catalyzed [4 + 2] cyclization of para-quinone methide derivatives with allenes
Authors: Yuan Fu-Ru , Jiang Fei , Chen Ke-Wei , Mei Guang-Jian , Wu Qiong , Shi Feng
Published: January 2019

The first [4 + 2] cyclization of para-quinone methide derivatives with allenes has been established via phosphine catalysis, which afforded a series of chroman derivatives in high yields (up to 97%) and excellent (E/Z)-selectivities (all >95 : 5 E/Z).
Design, synthesis and glycosidase inhibition studies of novel triazole fused iminocyclitol-δ-lactams
Authors: Santhanam Venkatesan , Pant Pradeep , Jayaram B. , Ramesh Namakkal G.
Published: January 2019

Synthesis of novel triazole fused iminocyclitol-δ-lactams, from tri-O-benzyl-d-glucal, involving intermolecular [3 + 2]cycloaddition and intramolecular lactamisation reactions as key steps is described.
Coumarin derivatives as versatile photoinitiators for 3D printing, polymerization in water and photocomposite synthesis
Authors: Abdallah Mira , Hijazi Akram , Graff Bernadette , Fouassier Jean-Pierre , Rodeghiero Giacomo , Gualandi Andrea , Dumur Frederic , Cozzi Pier Giorgio , Lalevée Jacques
Published: January 2019

The goal of this paper concerns the first evaluation of two recently reported coumarins to initiate photopolymerization reactions.
Enhancing photoelectrochemical hydrogen production of a n+p-Si hetero-junction photocathode with amorphous Ni and Ti layers
Authors: Yu Chunlin , Jia Qing , Zhang Hongxiu , Liu Wei , Yu Xuegong , Zhang Xingwang
Published: January 2019

N+p-Si/Ti/Ni hetero-junction photocathode with high-quality interfaces and light-harvesting capability shows the outstanding PEC-HER performance in alkaline electrolyte.
Synergistic silver/scandium catalytic spiroketalization of β-alkynyl ketones for the atom economical synthesis of skeletally diverse spirocyclic isochromenes
Authors: Ji Cheng-Long , Pan Yao , Geng Fang-Zhou , Hao Wen-Juan , Tu Shu-Jiang , Jiang Bo
Published: January 2019

Two types of new synergistic silver/scandium catalytic spiroketalizations of β-alkynyl ketones have been achieved, delivering a variety of skeletally diverse spirocyclic isochromenes in generally good yields.
Role of the disulfide bond on the structure and activity of μ-conotoxin PIIIA in the inhibition of NaV1.4
Authors: Xu Xiaoxiao , Xu Qingliang , Chen Fangling , Shi Juan , Liu Yuntian , Chu Yanyan , Wan Shengbiao , Jiang Tao , Yu Rilei
Published: January 2019

μ-Conotoxin PIIIA, a peptide toxin isolated fromConus purpurascens, blocks the skeletal muscle voltage-gated sodium channel NaV1.4 with significant potency.
The dynamic nature of Cu sites in Cu-SSZ-13 and the origin of the seagull NOx conversion profile during NH3-SCR
Authors: Fahami A. R. , Günter T. , Doronkin D. E. , Casapu M. , Zengel D. , Vuong T. H. , Simon M. , Breher F. , Kucherov A. V. , Brückner A. , Grunwaldt J.-D.
Published: January 2019

Systematic catalytic tests and in situ/operando spectroscopy uncovered structure–performance relationships determining the seagull profile of the NOx conversion for Cu-SSZ-13 catalysts.
Pressure-driven band gap engineering in ion-conducting semiconductor silver orthophosphate
Authors: Lu Yang , Zhu Shengcai , Huang Eugene , He Yu , Ruan Jiaji , Liu Gang , Yan Hao
Published: January 2019

The obtainment of active semiconductor photocatalysts remains a challenge for converting sunlight into clean fuels. Here, a pressure technique is explored to optimize the electronic band structure of a promising photocatalyst.
Photocatalytic dehydrogenation of formic acid promoted by a superior PdAg@g-C3N4 Mott–Schottky heterojunction
Authors: Liu Hu , Liu Xinyang , Yang Weiwei , Shen Mengqi , Geng Shuo , Yu Chao , Shen Bo , Yu Yongsheng
Published: January 2019

The superior PdAg@g-C3N4 Mott–Schottky heterojunction exhibits boosting dehydrogenation photocatalysis of formic acid (TOF = 420 h−1) without any additive under visible light (λ > 400 nm) at room temperature.
Heterostructures of Ni–Co–Al layered double hydroxide assembled on V4C3MXene for high-energy hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Hui , Li Han , Lin Shuai , Bai Jin , Dai Jianming , Liang Changhao , Zhu Xuebin , Sun Yuping , Dou Shixue
Published: January 2019

The synthetic process of the NiCoAl-LDH/V4C3Txcomposite and the assembled NiCoAl-LDH/V4C3Tx//AC hybrid supercapacitor device.
Hybrid lipid–nanoparticle complexes for biomedical applications
Authors: Vargas Kevin M. , Shon Young-Seok
Published: January 2019

This paper reviews five different types of hybrid lipid–nanoparticle complexes (HLNC) with potential applications in biomedical research.
Design of a star-like hyperbranched polymer having hydrophilic arms for anti-biofouling coating
Authors: Totani Masayasu , Liu Ling , Matsuno Hisao , Tanaka Keiji
Published: January 2019

A simple method for anti-biofouling coating based on a star-like hyperbranched polymer having hydrophilic arms.
Cesium-functionalized pectin as a cathode interlayer for polymer solar cells
Authors: Xu Han , Ding Zicheng , Zhang Lu , Liu Jun , Hu Junli , Liu Yichun
Published: January 2019

A water-soluble functionalized unconjugated biomass polymer, Cs+-functionalized pectin (PeCs), can be used as cathode interlayer material for polymer solar cells.
Yb3+/Ln3+/Mn4+ (Ln = Er, Ho, and Tm) doped Na3ZrF7 phosphors: oil–water interface cation exchange synthesis, dual-modal luminescence and anti-counterfeiting
Authors: Chen Daqin , Liu Yue , Chen Jiangkun , Huang Hai , Zhong Jiasong , Zhu Yiwen
Published: January 2019

Yb/Ln/Mn:Na3ZrF7 phosphors with bi-functional luminescence are fabricated via an oil–water interface cation exchange, enabling them to be applied in anti-counterfeiting.
Histamine and diabetic nephropathy: an up-to-date overview
Authors: Pini Alessandro , Verta Roberta , Grange Cristina , Gurrieri Maura , Rosa Arianna Carolina
Published: January 2019

The classification of diabetic nephropathy (DN) as a vascular complication of diabetes makes the possible involvement of histamine, an endogenous amine that is well known for its vasoactive properties, an interesting topic for study. The aim of the present review is to provide an extensive overview of the possible involvement of histamine in the onset and progression of DN. The evidence collected on the role of histamine in kidney function together with its well-known pleiotropic action suggest that this amine may act simultaneously on glomerular hyperfiltration, tubular inflammation, fibrosis development and tubular hypertrophy.
The effects of terlipressin and direct portacaval shunting on liver hemodynamics following 80% hepatectomy in the pig
Authors: Hammond John S. , Godtliebsen Fred , Steigen Sonja , Guha I. Neil , Wyatt Judy , Revhaug Arthur , Lobo Dileep N. , Mortensen Kim E.
Published: January 2019

Liver failure is the major cause of death following liver resection. Post-resection portal venous pressure (PVP) predicts liver failure, is implicated in its pathogenesis, and when PVP is reduced, rates of liver dysfunction decrease. The aim of the present study was to characterize the hemodynamic, biochemical, and histological changes induced by 80% hepatectomy in non-cirrhotic pigs and determine if terlipressin or direct portacaval shunting can modulate these effects. Pigs were randomized (n=8/group) to undergo 80% hepatectomy alone (control); terlipressin (2 mg bolus + 0.5–1 mg/h) + 80% hepatectomy; or portacaval shunt (PCS) + 80% hepatectomy, and were maintained under terminal anesthesia for 8 h. The primary outcome was changed in PVP. Secondary outcomes included portal venous flow (PVF), hepatic arterial flow (HAF), and biochemical and histological markers of liver injury. Hepatectomy increased PVP (9.3 ± 0.4 mmHg pre-hepatectomy compared with 13.0 ± 0.8 mmHg post-hepatectomy, P<0.0001) and PVF/g liver (1.2 ± 0.2 compared with 6.0 ± 0.6 ml/min/g, P<0.0001) and decreased HAF (70.8 ± 5.0 compared with 41.8 ± 5.7 ml/min, P=0.002). Terlipressin and PCS reduced PVP (terlipressin = 10.4 ± 0.8 mmHg, P=0.046 and PCS = 8.3 ± 1.2 mmHg, P=0.025) and PVF (control = 869.0 ± 36.1 ml/min compared with terlipressin = 565.6 ± 25.7 ml/min, P<0.0001 and PCS = 488.4 ± 106.4 ml/min, P=0.002) compared with control. Treatment with terlipressin increased HAF (73.2 ± 11.3 ml/min) compared with control (40.3 ± 6.3 ml/min, P=0.026). The results of the present study suggest that terlipressin and PCS may have a role in the prevention and treatment of post-resection liver failure.
Digital hybrid current mode control for DC–DC converters
Authors: Ugur Abdulkerim , Yilmaz Murat
Published: January 2019

A digital hybrid current mode (HCM) control technique which combines peak current and average current mode (ACM) control methods is studied. The proposed controller consists of three control loops, an analogue fast current loop, a digital slow current loop and an outer voltage loop. For the control method, both continuous and discrete‐time models are built. Similarly, a continuous‐time model for ACM control is provided for comparison. For both control techniques, a compensator design method is proposed. The control methods are implemented on a 6 W synchronous buck converter with a mixed‐signal ARM‐based microcontroller. Controller models are verified with the frequency response measurements of the inner and outer loops. In digital HCM control, higher DC gain and phase margin is achieved with the same gain margin compared to digital ACM control. Furthermore, the transient responses of the systems are analysed. When the outer voltage loop is open, 30% faster dynamic response is measured by the digital HCM method. With voltage compensation, comparable dynamic response on the output voltage is achieved without inductor current overshooting by the digital HCM control.
An efficient two-phase metaheuristic algorithm for the time dependent traveling Salesman problem
Authors: Ban Ha Bang
Published: January 2019

The Time Dependent Traveling Salesman Problem (TDTSP) is a class of NP-hard combinatorial optimization problems which has many practical applications. To the best of our knowledge, developing metaheuristic algorithm for the problem has not been studied much before, even though it is a natural and general extension of the Minimum Latency Problem (MLP) or Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP). In this paper, we propose an effective two-phase metaheuristic which combines the Insertion Heuristic (IH), Variable Neighborhood Search (VNS) and the tabu search (TS) to solve the problem. In a construction phase, the IH is used to create an initial solution that is good enough. In an improvement phase, the VNS is employed to generate diverse and various neighborhoods, while the main attribute of tabu search is to prohibit our algorithm from getting trapped into cycles, and to guide the search to escape local optima. Moreover, we introduce a novel neighborhoods’ structure in VNS and present a O(1) operation for calculating the cost of each neighboring solution in a special case of TDTSP where the TDTSP becomes the MLP. Extensive computational experiments on 355 benchmark instances show that our algorithm can find the optimal solutions for small instances with up to 100 vertices in a reasonable amount of time. For larger instances, our algorithm obtains the new best solutions in comparison with the state-of-the-art algorithm solutions.
Z-equilibria in Bi-matrix games with uncertain payoffs
Authors: Achemine Farida , Merakeb Abdelkader , Larbani Moussa , Marthon Philippe
Published: January 2019

The concept of Z-equilibrium has been introduced by Zhuk-ovskii (Mathematical Methods in Operations Research. Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia (1985) 103–195) for games in normal form. This concept is always Pareto optimal and individually rational for the players. Moreover, Pareto optimal Nash equilibria are Z-equilibria. We consider a bi-matrix game whose payoffs are uncertain variables. By appropriate ranking criteria of Liu uncertainty theory, we introduce some concepts of equilibrium based on Z-equilibrium for such games. We provide sufficient conditions for the existence of the introduced concepts. Moreover, using mathematical programming, we present a procedure for their computation. A numerical example is provided for illustration.
Experimental study on laser-driven electron collimation along wire targets
Authors: Zeng Yushan , Tian Ye , Zhou Chuliang , Li Zhongpeng , Liu Jiansheng , Xu Zhizhan
Published: January 2019

We present an experimental study of electron collimation triggered by an ∼1 × 1018 W/cm2 laser pulse irradiated onto wire-like targets. The collimation effect is observed to vary with the laser intensity and target shape. From the resulting electron angular distributions obtained under different experimental conditions, we deduce that the collimated electron charge grows in proportion with the −1/2 power of wire diameters and the square of pulse energies. Numerical simulations are conducted to study the electron behavior's dependence on the transient field and experimental conditions and are found to reproduce the experimental features.
Insights into local shockwave behavior and thermodynamics in granular materials from tomography-initialized mesoscale simulations
Authors: Rutherford M. E. , Derrick J. G. , Chapman D. J. , Collins G. S. , Eakins D. E.
Published: January 2019

Interpreting and tailoring the dynamic mechanical response of granular systems relies upon understanding how the initial arrangement of grains influences the compaction kinetics and thermodynamics. In this article, the influence of initial granular arrangement on the dynamic compaction response of a bimodal powder system (soda-lime distributed throughout a porous, fused silica matrix) was investigated through continuum-level and mesoscale simulations incorporating real, as-tested microstructures measured with X-ray tomography. By accounting for heterogeneities in the real powder composition, continuum-level simulations were brought into significantly better agreement with previously reported experimental data. Mesoscale simulations reproduced much of the previously unexplained experimental data scatter, gave further evidence of low-impedance mixture components dominating shock velocity dispersion, and crucially predicted the unexpectedly high velocities observed experimentally during the early stages of compaction. Moreover, only when the real microstructure was accounted for did simulations predict that small fractions of the fused silica matrix material would be driven into the β-quartz region of phase space. These results suggest that using real microstructures in mesoscale simulations is a critical step in understanding the full range of shock states achieved during dynamic granular compaction and interpreting solid phase distributions found in real planetary bodies.
Non-approximated series resistance evaluation by considering high ideality factor in organic solar cell
Authors: Rana Aniket , Kumar Amit , Rahman Md. Wazedur , Vashistha Nikita , Garg Kuldeep K. , Pandey Sandeep , Sahoo Nanda Gopal , Chand Suresh , Singh Rajiv K.
Published: January 2019

The quality performance analysis of any solar cell can only be predicted through the parameters extracted from its current-voltage characteristics. Herein, we demonstrate an efficient analytical method to calculate the series resistance of organic solar cells without any pre approximation. It has been shown that the inaccuracy in series resistance takes place due to the high ideality factor of the organic based solar cells, usually ranging from 2-5. Using a systemic approach, we solved the single diode solar cell model to determine the series resistance expression. The dependence of series resistance on ideality factor of the device and the reverse saturation current calculation through the illuminated current-voltage characteristics has been presented here for the first time. The entire method has been programmatically realized in MATLAB. The extracted parameters values have been compared to the other methods for the proof of validation and it shows good agreement where as some outputs are better resolved. Additionally, the effectiveness of the present method is also matched with NREL certified silicon solar cell (reference cell model 60623) parameter extracted from K24XX cell software provided with PET cell tester model, CT200AAA solar simulators. The present proposed method is not restricted to the organic solar cell only but it can also be applied for the other type of solar cell as well. Therefore, the proposed method shows the relevance in the present scenario of solar cell research and development.
Modelling and nonlinear dynamic behavior of a geared rotor-bearing system using tooth surface microscopic features based on fractal theory
Authors: Chen Qi , Zhou Jianjun , Khushnood Ammar , Wu Yanming , Zhang Yan
Published: January 2019

This paper investigates the influence of microscopic features on the tooth surface of a geared rotor-bearing system on the system’s dynamic behavior. First, by upgrading the Weierstrass–Mandelbrot function to redefine the gear backlash equation and combining this with a nonlinear dynamic model of a geared system, an improved nonlinear dynamic model is established. Second, the effects of four crucial model parameters on the gear dynamics are examined through a series of numerical simulations, allowing us to explore the corresponding dynamic response and the model’s feasibility. The results show that surface roughness plays a significant role in the dynamic behavior of the gears, with lower surface roughness corresponding to better dynamic performance. The fractal dimension is found to be a non-negligible factor with respect to gear dynamics, and decreasing the fractal dimension proves advantageous to the dynamic response. As the stiffness coefficient decreases and the gear meshing damping increases, the stability of the system improves. Finally, the model is validated through a comparison of our theory with experimental data and another certified model. Our theory constructs a mathematical relationship between the gear dynamics and tooth surface micro-characteristics, forming a basis for future tooth surface topographies as well as a reference for the dynamic analysis of other highly paired systems.
Experimental and numerical investigations of nonlinear interaction of counter-propagating Lamb waves
Authors: Sun Maoxun , Xiang Yanxun , Deng Mingxi , Tang Bo , Zhu Wujun , Xuan Fu-Zhen
Published: January 2019

The nonlinear interaction of Lamb waves has attracted considerable attention because of its potential for localizing micro-damage in plate-like structures. Most recent studies have focused on the nonlinear mixing of Lamb waves propagating in the same direction, but this makes it difficult to determine the exact position of micro-damage because of the relatively large mixing zone. To overcome these shortcomings, we consider the nonlinear interaction of counter-propagating Lamb waves in this letter. An obvious resonance phenomenon is first observed in both experiments and simulations, which agrees well with our previous theoretical analysis [Li et al., J. Appl. Phys. 124, 044901 (2018)]. Also, analyzing the time-domain signal shows that the precision of damage localization is a function of the frequencies, the number of cycles, and the phase and group velocities of the primary waves.
Controlling tunneling in ammonia isotopomers
Authors: Fábri Csaba , Marquardt Roberto , Császár Attila G. , Quack Martin
Published: January 2019

We report results of full-dimensional variational rovibrational quantum-dynamical computations for several ammonia isotopomers, based on selected potential energy and electric dipole moment hypersurfaces. The variational rovibrational eigenstates have been used as a basis for the solution of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation for nuclear motion including coherent infrared multiphoton excitation. The theoretical and computational framework developed during this study enables the investigation of the coherent inhibition or enhancement of tunneling in ammonia isotopomers by appropriately chosen laser fields. Our quantum-dynamical computations include all vibrational and rotational degrees of freedom and assume neither the alignment nor the orientation of the molecules under investigation. Specific results include accurate rotational-vibrational levels for NH2D, NHD2, NHDMu, and NHDT, probability densities for structural parameters as a function of time from the full-dimensional wavepacket results, time-dependent chirality for the isotopically chiral molecule NHDT, and detailed analyses of the enhancement and inhibition of stereomutation dynamics.
Perfect absorption of water waves by linear or nonlinear critical coupling
Authors: Monsalve E. , Maurel A. , Petitjeans P. , Pagneux V.
Published: January 2019

We report on experiments of perfect absorption for surface gravity waves impinging a wall structured by a subwavelength resonator. By tuning the geometry of the resonator, a balance is achieved between the radiation damping and the intrinsic viscous damping, resulting in perfect absorption by critical coupling. Besides, it is shown that the resistance of the resonator, hence the intrinsic damping, can be controlled by the wave amplitude, which provides a way for perfect absorption tuned by nonlinear mechanisms. The perfect absorber that we propose, without moving parts or added material, is simple and robust and presents a deeply subwavelength ratio wavelength/thickness of ≃18.
A cryogenic cylindrical ion trap velocity map imaging spectrometer
Authors: Hua Zefeng , Feng Shaowen , Zhou Zhengfang , Liang Hao , Chen Yang , Zhao Dongfeng
Published: January 2019

A cryogenic cylindrical ion trap velocity map imaging spectrometer has been developed to study photodissociation spectroscopy and dynamics of gaseous molecular ions and ionic complexes. A cylindrical ion trap made of oxygen-free copper is cryogenically cooled down to ∼7 K by using a closed cycle helium refrigerator and is coupled to a velocity map imaging (VMI) spectrometer. The cold trap is used to cool down the internal temperature of mass selected ions and to reduce the velocity spread of ions after extraction from the trap. For CO2+ ions, a rotational temperature of ∼12 K is estimated from the recorded [1 + 1] two-photon dissociation spectrum, and populations in spin-orbit excited X2Πg,1/2 and vibrationally excited states of CO2+ are found to be non-detectable, indicating an efficient internal cooling of the trapped ions. Based on the time-of-flight peak profile and the image of N3+, the velocity spread of the ions extracted from the trap, both radially and axially, is interpreted as approximately ±25 m/s. An experimental image of fragmented Ar+ from 307 nm photodissociation of Ar2+ shows that, benefitting from the well-confined velocity spread of the cold Ar2+ ions, a VMI resolution of Δv/v ∼ 2.2% has been obtained. The current instrument resolution is mainly limited by the residual radial speed spread of the parent ions after extraction from the trap.
A quantitative comparison of forest fires in central and northern California under early (1911–1924) and contemporary (2002–2015) fire suppression
Authors: Collins Brandon M. , Miller Jay D. , Knapp Eric E. , Sapsis David B.
Published: January 2019

Most studies of fire-regime changes in western North American forests rely on a reference period that pre-dates Euro-American settlement. Less is known about fire-regime changes relative to the early onset of major change agents, i.e. fire suppression and timber harvesting. We digitised ledgers that contained over 18000 individual fire records from 1911 through 1924 (early suppression period). We performed analyses comparing a subset of these fire records, largely in mixed-conifer forests, to similar records from 2002 through 2015 (contemporary period). Mapped ignition frequencies indicated similar geographic patterns for lightning-caused fires between periods, but notable shifts in certain areas for human-caused fires. There was no statistical difference in annual number of human-caused fires between the early suppression and contemporary time periods. However, there was a major shift in the distribution of burned area across fire size classes. Fires >12145ha accounted for 0–6% of total burned area in the early suppression period, and 53–73% in the contemporary period. Also, both the total number and percentage of fires >2024ha occurred significantly earlier in the year in the contemporary period. These shifts are likely driven by large-scale changes in fuel loads and continuity, and possibly exacerbated by climatic warming.
Determination of the diet of the ghost bat (Macroderma gigas) in the Pilbara region of Western Australia from dried prey remains and DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Arteaga Claramunt Alba M. , White Nicole E. , Bunce Michael , O'Connell Morgan , Bullen Robert D. , Mawson Peter R.
Published: January 2019

The ghost bat (Macroderma gigas) is listed as Vulnerable in Australia, and is a difficult species to study in the wild. The published literature available on even the most basic aspects of its ecology is limited. This study describes an investigation into the diet of ghost bats occupying the Pilbara region of Western Australia, using identification of dried food remains recovered from beneath roosts in the 1980s and 1990s, and DNA metabarcoding of faecal pellets collected from roost sites during 2011–12. Ghost bat diet in the Pilbara region consists primarily of small mammal and bird species, with a lesser contribution from reptiles (geckoes and skinks) and amphibians. In total, 46 vertebrate taxa were identified, with 32 taxa identified from the dried food remains, and 21 taxa by DNA metabarcoding analysis of the faecal pellets. Only seven of the taxa identified were common to both collection methods, and 32 of those taxa identified represent new prey records for ghost bats in Western Australia, and 19 prey species that had not previously been reported from any other part of Australia. Knowledge of the diet of the ghost bat will provide land managers with important information necessary to ensure the continued survival of this species across its range.
Microglia are effector cells of CD47-SIRPα antiphagocytic axis disruption against glioblastoma
Authors: Hutter Gregor , Theruvath Johanna , Graef Claus Moritz , Zhang Michael , Schoen Matthew Kenneth , Manz Eva Maria , Bennett Mariko L. , Olson Andrew , Azad Tej D. , Sinha Rahul , Chan Carmel , Assad Kahn Suzana , Gholamin Sharareh , Wilson Christy , Grant Gerald , He Joy , Weissman Irving L. , Mitra Siddhartha S. , Cheshier Samuel H.
Published: January 2019

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a highly aggressive malignant brain tumor with fatal outcome. Tumor-associated macrophages and microglia (TAMs) have been found to be major tumor-promoting immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Hence, modulation and reeducation of tumor-associated macrophages and microglia in GBM is considered a promising antitumor strategy. Resident microglia and invading macrophages have been shown to have distinct origin and function. Whereas yolk sac-derived microglia reside in the brain, blood-derived monocytes invade the central nervous system only under pathological conditions like tumor formation. We recently showed that disruption of the SIRPα-CD47 signaling axis is efficacious against various brain tumors including GBM primarily by inducing tumor phagocytosis. However, most effects are attributed to macrophages recruited from the periphery but the role of the brain resident microglia is unknown. Here, we sought to utilize a model to distinguish resident microglia and peripheral macrophages within the GBM-TAM pool, using orthotopically xenografted, immunodeficient, and syngeneic mouse models with genetically color-coded macrophages (
Ccr2
RFP
) and microglia (
Cx3cr1
GFP
). We show that even in the absence of phagocytizing macrophages (
Ccr2
RFP/RFP
), microglia are effector cells of tumor cell phagocytosis in response to anti-CD47 blockade. Additionally, macrophages and microglia show distinct morphological and transcriptional changes. Importantly, the transcriptional profile of microglia shows less of an inflammatory response which makes them a promising target for clinical applications.
Structural basis for prodrug recognition by the SLC15 family of proton-coupled peptide transporters
Authors: Minhas Gurdeep S. , Newstead Simon
Published: January 2019

A major challenge in drug development is the optimization of intestinal absorption and cellular uptake. A successful strategy has been to develop prodrug molecules, which hijack solute carrier (SLC) transporters for active transport into the body. The proton-coupled oligopeptide transporters, PepT1 and PepT2, have been successfully targeted using this approach. Peptide transporters display a remarkable capacity to recognize a diverse library of di- and tripeptides, making them extremely promiscuous and major contributors to the pharmacokinetic profile of several important drug classes, including beta-lactam antibiotics and antiviral and antineoplastic agents. Of particular interest has been their ability to recognize amino acid and peptide-based prodrug molecules, thereby providing a rational approach to improving drug transport into the body. However, the structural basis for prodrug recognition has remained elusive. Here we present crystal structures of a prokaryotic homolog of the mammalian transporters in complex with the antiviral prodrug valacyclovir and the peptide-based photodynamic therapy agent, 5-aminolevulinic acid. The valacyclovir structure reveals that prodrug recognition is mediated through both the amino acid scaffold and the ester bond, which is commonly used to link drug molecules to the carrier’s physiological ligand, whereas 5-aminolevulinic acid makes far fewer interactions compared with physiological peptides. These structures provide a unique insight into how peptide transporters interact with xenobiotic molecules and provide a template for further prodrug development.
Vacuum denitrification and nitrogen absorption of molten steel under ultra-low nitrogen conditions
Authors: Wu H. J. , Li Q. Q. , Wang Z. , Jiang F. J.
Published: January 2019

Vacuum smelting experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of different initial nitrogen content and surface active elements on nitrogen denitrification and nitrogen absorption in molten steel. Thermodynamic calculations show that the pressure corresponding to 10 ppm of [N] should be less than 45 Pa; at 30 Pa and 1600°C, the nitrogen content in the steel reduced from 18 to 10 ppm in 50 min. Furthermore, denitrification can be described as a 1.5th order reaction model. In addition, the mean parameters of nitrogen absorption between the ultra-low and common-nitrogen steels are different: for ultra-low nitrogen molten steel exposed to air, even if [S] ≥ 200 ppm and [O] ≥ 300 ppm, [N] can increase from 10 to over 40 ppm in 20 min.
Serum Lipids and Risk of Rapid Renal Function Decline in Treated Hypertensive Adults With Normal Renal Function
Authors: Zhang Xianglin , Wang Binyan , Yang Juan , Wang Jiancheng , Yu Yaren , Jiang Chongfei , Xie Liling , Song Yun , Zhong Biyan , Li Youbao , Liang Min , Wang Guobao , Li Jianping , Zhang Yan , Huo Yong , Xu Xiping , Qin Xianhui
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

We aim to evaluate the effect of different lipids parameters, including triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), the TG to HDL-C (TG:HDL-C) ratio, total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), on the risk of rapid renal function decline and examine any possible effect modifiers in general hypertensive patients with normal renal function.

METHODS

A total of 12,549 hypertensive patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2 in the renal sub-study of the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial were included in the analyses. The primary outcome was rapid renal function decline, defined as an average decline in eGFR ≥ 5 ml/min/1.73 m2 per year.

RESULTS

The median treatment duration was 4.4 years. After the full adjustment for TC, TG, HDL-C, and other major covariates, a significantly higher risk of rapid renal function decline was found in participants with higher TG [≥150 vs. <150 mg/dl, 7.7% vs. 5.5%; odds ratios (OR): 1.27; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06–1.51], higher TG:HDL-C ratio [≥2.7 (median) vs. <2.7, 7.7% vs. 5.0%; OR: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.14–1.71), lower TC (≥200 vs. <200 mg/dl, 6.0% vs. 7.0%; OR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.67–0.93), or lower LDL-C levels (≥130 vs. <130 mg/dl, 6.1% vs. 7.0%; OR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.67–0.94). Moreover, the increased risk of the primary outcome associated with elevated TG was particularly evident among individuals with lower total homocysteine levels [<12.4 (median) vs. ≥ 12.4 μmol/l, P interaction = 0.036].

CONCLUSIONS

Higher TG and TG:HDL-C ratio were independent risk factors for rapid renal function decline in hypertensive adults with normal renal function.
Use of a physician order entry system to identify opportunities for intravenous to oral levofloxacin conversion
Authors: Glemaud Indy
Published: January 2019

Experience with a program for identifying, through a physician order entry system, potentially inappropriate use of expensive intravenous (i.v.) drugs, including levofloxacin, is described.

The program identifies patients who are receiving i.v. levofloxacin and simultaneously receiving oral medications or an oral diet. A computerized report of such patients is printed every morning at the hospital and distributed to pharmacists according to their nursing station assignments. The pharmacists document their daily interventions to encourage switching from i.v. to oral therapy, and data are compiled and posted at the end of each month. From January 1 through September 30, 1999, the first 10 months of the program, the cost per day of levofloxacin therapy per patient decreased substantially.

The program helped the institution decrease the number of patients receiving i.v. levofloxacin.
Dynamic changes in ABA content in water-stressed Populus nigra: effects on carbon fixation and soluble carbohydrates
Authors: Brunetti Cecilia , Gori Antonella , Marino Giovanni , Latini Paolo , Sobolev Anatoly P , Nardini Andrea , Haworth Matthew , Giovannelli Alessio , Capitani Donatella , Loreto Francesco , Taylor Gail , Mugnozza Giuseppe Scarascia , Harfouche Antoine , Centritto Mauro
Published: January 2019

Background and Aims

Hydraulic and chemical signals operate in tandem to regulate systemic plant responses to drought. Transport of abscisic acid (ABA) through the xylem and phloem from the root to shoot has been suggested to serve as the main signal of water deficit. There is evidence that ABA and its ABA-glycosyl-ester (ABA-GE) are also formed in leaves and stems through the chloroplastic 2-C-methylerythritol-5-phosphate (MEP) pathway. This study aimed to evaluate how hormonal and hydraulic signals contribute to optimize stomatal (gs), mesophyll (gm) and leaf hydraulic (Kleaf) conductance under well-watered and water-stressed conditions in Populus nigra (black poplar) plants. In addition, we assessed possible relationships between ABA and soluble carbohydrates within the leaf and stem.

Methods

Plants were subjected to three water treatments: well-watered (WW), moderate stress (WS1) and severe stress (WS2). This experimental set-up enabled a time-course analysis of the response to water deficit at the physiological [leaf gas exchange, plant water relations, (Kleaf)], biochemical (ABA and its metabolite/catabolite quantification in xylem sap, leaves, wood, bark and roots) and molecular (gene expression of ABA biosynthesis) levels.

Key Results

Our results showed strong coordination between gs, gm and Kleaf under water stress, which reduced transpiration and increased intrinsic water use efficiency (WUEint). Analysis of gene expression of 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase (NCED) and ABA content in different tissues showed a general up-regulation of the biosynthesis of this hormone and its finely-tuned catabolism in response to water stress. Significant linear relationships were found between soluble carbohydrates and ABA contents in both leaves and stems, suggesting a putative function for this hormone in carbohydrate mobilization under severe water stress.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the tight regulation of the photosynthetic machinery by levels of ABA in different plants organs on a daily basis in both well-watered and water stress conditions to optimize WUEint and coordinate whole plant acclimation responses to drought.
polyDFEv2.0: testing for invariance of the distribution of fitness effects within and across species
Authors: Tataru Paula , Bataillon Thomas
Published: January 2019

Distribution of fitness effects (DFE) of mutations can be inferred from site frequency spectrum (SFS) data. There is mounting interest to determine whether distinct genomic regions and/or species share a common DFE, or whether evidence exists for differences among them. polyDFEv2.0 fits multiple SFS datasets at once and provides likelihood ratio tests for DFE invariance across datasets. Simulations show that testing for DFE invariance across genomic regions within a species requires models accounting for distinct sources of heterogeneity (chance and genuine difference in DFE) underlying differences in SFS data in these regions. Not accounting for this will result in the spurious detection of DFE differences.

Availability and Implementation

polyDFEv2.0 is implemented in C and is accompanied by a series of R functions that facilitate post-processing of the output. It is available as source code and compiled binaries under a GNU General Public License v3.0 from https://github.com/paula-tataru/polyDFE.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Preparing for the future: integrating spatial ecology into ecosystem-based management
Authors: Lowerre-Barbieri Susan K , Catalán Ignacio A , Frugård Opdal Anders , Jørgensen Christian
Published: January 2019

Marine resource management is shifting from optimizing single species yield to redefining sustainable fisheries within the context of managing ocean use and ecosystem health. In this introductory article to the theme set, “Plugging spatial ecology into ecosystem-based management (EBM)” we conduct an informal horizon scan with leaders in EBM research to identify three rapidly evolving areas that will be game changers in integrating spatial ecology into EBM. These are: (1) new data streams from fishers, genomics, and technological advances in remote sensing and bio-logging; (2) increased analytical power through “Big Data” and artificial intelligence; and (3) better integration of social dimensions into management. We address each of these areas by first imagining capacity in 20 years from now, and then highlighting emerging efforts to get us there, drawing on articles in this theme set, other scientific literature, and presentations/discussions from the symposium on “Linkages between spatial ecology and sustainable fisheries” held at the ICES Annual Science Conference in September 2017.