bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sebacic acid as corrosion inhibitor for hot‐dip galvanized (HDG) steel in 0.1 M NaCl
Authors: Fedel Michele , Poelman Mireille , Olivier Marjorie , Deflorian Flavio
Published: February 2019

The potential of sebacic acid as a corrosion inhibitor for hot‐dip galvanized steel in 0.1 M NaCl solution has been investigated. Different concentrations of the organic acid have been tested in order to understand the inhibition mechanism of the compound. The electrochemical test revealed a competitive mechanism between the dissolution of the metal in the acidified solution and the inhibition provided by the dicarboxylic species. The formation of a whitish layer consisting of zinc carboxylates and corrosion products was proved by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigation combined with Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) analysis. A bidentate bridging coordination between the Zn(II) and the carboxylic species is suggested.
Hollow Nanospheres of Co/N‐C Composite as an Efficient Nonprecious Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Xiao Zhourong , Zou Yang , Li Yueting , Hou Fang , Guo Mengya , Wang Li , Zhang Xiangwen , Li Guozhu
Published: February 2019

Hollow nanospheres of Co/N−C composite have been synthesized using silica spheres with solid core and mesoporous shell (SCMS) as hard template and cobalt protoporphyrin as the precursor of C, N and Co by carbonization and etching. With the doping of only 0.68% Co into the hollow composite, activity and selectivity of ORR have been greatly facilitated. Moreover, hollow Co/N−C composite displays good electrochemical durability and tolerance to methanol crossover effect. The excellent catalytic performance of hollow Co/N−C nanospheres towards ORR can be ascribed to their unique hollow structure with mesopores, homogeneously distribution of Co nanoparticles, and suitable doping of N into carbon.
Impact of Interfacial Electron Transfer on Electrochemical CO2 Reduction on Graphitic Carbon Nitride/Doped Graphene
Authors: Zhi Xing , Jiao Yan , Zheng Yao , Qiao Shi‐Zhang
Published: February 2019

Effective electrocatalysts are required for the CO2 reduction reaction (CRR), while the factors that can impact their catalytic activity are yet to be discovered. In this article, graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) is used to investigate the feasibility of regulating its CRR catalytic performance by interfacial electron transfer. A series of g‐C3N4/graphene with and without heteroatom doping (C3N4/XG, XG = BG, NG, OG, PG, G) is comprehensively evaluated for CRR through computational methods. Variable adsorption energetics and electronic structures are observed among different doping cases, demonstrating that a higher catalytic activity originates from more interfacial electron transfer. An activity trend is obtained to show the best catalytic performance of CRR to methane on C3N4/XG with an overpotential of 0.45 V (i.e., −0.28 V vs reverse hydrogen electrode [RHE]). Such a low overpotential has never been achieved on any previously reported metallic CRR electrocatalysts, therefore indicating the availability of C3N4/XG for CO2 reduction and the applicability of electron transfer modulation to improve CRR catalytic performance.
Air‐Stable Polyphosphazene‐Functionalized Few‐Layer Black Phosphorene for Flame Retardancy of Epoxy Resins
Authors: Qiu Shuilai , Zhou Yifan , Zhou Xia , Zhang Tao , Wang Chenyu , Yuen Richard K. K. , Hu Weizhao , Hu Yuan
Published: February 2019

Similar to graphene, few‐layer black phosphorus (BP) features thermal stability, mechanical properties, and characteristic dimension effects, which has potential as a new member of nanofillers for fabricating polymer nanocomposites. Herein, a cross‐linked polyphosphazene‐functionalized BP (BP‐PZN) is developed with abundant –NH2 groups via a one‐pot polycondensation of 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl ether and hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene on the surface of BP nanosheets. Whereafter, the resulting BP‐PZN is incorporated into epoxy resin (EP) to study the flame‐retardant property and smoke suppression performance. Cone results show that the introduction of 2 wt% BP‐PZN distinctly improves the flame‐retardant property of EP, for instance, 59.4% decrease in peak heat release rate and 63.6% reduction in total heat release. The diffusion of pyrolysis products from EP during combustion is obviously suppressed after incorporating the BP‐PZN nanosheets. Meanwhile, the EP/BP‐PZN nanocomposites exhibit air stability after exposure to ambient conditions for four months. The air stability of the BP nanosheets in EP matrix is assigned to surface wrapping by PZN and embedded in the polymer matrix as dual protection. As a new member of the 2D nanomaterials, BP nanosheets have potential to be a new choice for fabricating high‐performance nanocomposites.
A Simple and Scalable Route to Synthesize CoxCu1−xCo2O4@CoyCu1−yCo2O4 Yolk–Shell Microspheres, A High‐Performance Catalyst to Hydrolyze Ammonia Borane for Hydrogen Production
Authors: Lu Dongsheng , Li Junhao , Lin Chaohui , Liao Jinyun , Feng Yufa , Ding Zitian , Li Zhiwei , Liu Quanbing , Li Hao
Published: February 2019

Yolk–shell structured micro/nano‐sized materials have broad and important applications in different areas due to their unique spatial configurations. In this study, yolk–shell structured Co3O4@Co3O4 is prepared using a simple and scalable hydrothermal reaction, followed by a calcination process. Then, CoxCu1−xCo2O4@CoyCu1−yCo2O4 microspheres are synthesized via adsorption and calcination processes using the as‐prepared Co3O4@Co3O4 as the precursor. A possible formation mechanism of the yolk–shell structures is proposed based on the characterization results, which is different from those of yolk–shell structures in previous study. For the first time, the catalytic activity of yolk–shell structured catalysts in ammonia borane (AB) hydrolysis is studied. It is discovered that the yolk–shell structured CoxCu1−xCo2O4@CoyCu1−yCo2O4 microspheres exhibit high performance with a turnover frequency (TOF) of 81.8 molhydrogen min−1 molcat−1. This is one of the highest TOF values reported for a noble‐metal‐free catalyst in the literature. Additionally, the yolk–shell structured CoxCu1−xCo2O4@CoyCu1−yCo2O4 microspheres are highly stable and reusable. These yolk–shell structured CoxCu1−xCo2O4@CoyCu1−yCo2O4 microsphere is a promising catalyst candidate in AB hydrolysis considering the excellent catalytic behavior and low cost.
Dual‐Ion Electrochemical Deionization System with Binder‐Free Aerogel Electrodes
Authors: Zhao Weiyun , Ding Meng , Guo Lu , Yang Hui Ying
Published: February 2019

Desalination devices such as capacitive deionization (CDI) have been developed for many years as an approach to relief freshwater shortage. However, due to the limitation of physical adsorption capacity of CDI, the salt removal capacity is unable to reach high value. To enhance the desalination capacity effectively, battery materials are employed to fabricate a dual‐ion electrochemical deionization (DEDI) device. Herein, a binder‐free DEDI system with two free‐standing aerogel electrodes is reported. A Na3V2(PO4)3/graphene hybrid aerogel is used as sodium electrode and a AgCl/graphene hybrid aerogel is used as chloride electrode. With electric current passing through, sodium and chloride ions are released or absorbed by two aerogel electrodes. This system achieves super high desalination capacity, excellent cycling stability, and rapid desalination rate. The desalination capacity is as high as 107.5 mg g−1 after 50 cycles with the current density of 100 mA g−1. The outstanding desalination performance of this system shows a synergistic effect of combining battery materials with graphene for deionization and promises a new potential alternative of future desalination design.
Test activities in the continuous integration and delivery pipeline
Authors: Mårtensson Torvald , Ståhl Daniel , Bosch Jan
Published: February 2019

Based on 25 interviews with participants from four case study companies that develop large‐scale software embedded systems, this paper presents the Test Activity Stakeholders (TAS) model. The TAS model shows how the continuous integration and delivery pipeline can be designed to include test activities that support four stakeholder interests: “Check changes,” “Secure stability,” “Measure progress,” and “Verify compliance.” The model is developed to show how each of the stakeholder interests are best supported by unit/component tests or system tests, by automated testing or manual testing and by tests executed in simulated environments or on real hardware. The TAS model may serve as a starting point for companies when evaluating and designing their continuous integration and delivery pipeline. The validation of the TAS model included twelve individuals from three case study companies. The validation showed that the TAS model is actionable and useful in practice, enabling the identification of stakeholders and showing where improvement efforts should be focused in order to support all stakeholder interests in the continuous integration and delivery pipeline.
Modeling of Photoreceptor Donor-Host Interaction Following Transplantation Reveals a Role for Crx, Müller Glia, and Rho/ROCK Signaling in Neurite Outgrowth
Authors: Tsai En L. S. , Ortin-Martinez Arturo , Gurdita Akshay , Comanita Lacrimioara , Yan Nicole , Smiley Sheila , Delplace Vianney , Shoichet Molly S. , Nickerson Philip E. B. , Wallace Valerie A.
Published: February 2019

The goal of photoreceptor transplantation is to establish functional synaptic connectivity between donor cells and second-order neurons in the host retina. There is, however, limited evidence of donor-host photoreceptor connectivity post-transplant. In this report, we investigated the effect of the host retinal environment on donor photoreceptor neurite outgrowth in vivo and identified a neurite outgrowth-promoting effect of host Crx(−/−) retinas following transplantation of purified photoreceptors expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP). To investigate the noncell autonomous factors that influence donor cell neurite outgrowth in vitro, we established a donor-host coculture system using postnatal retinal aggregates. Retinal cell aggregation is sensitive to several factors, including plate coating substrate, cell density, and the presence of Müller glia. Donor photoreceptors exhibit motility in aggregate cultures and can engraft into established aggregate structures. The neurite outgrowth-promoting phenotype observed in Crx(−/−) recipients in vivo is recapitulated in donor-host aggregate cocultures, demonstrating the utility of this surrogate in vitro approach. The removal of Müller glia from host aggregates reduced donor cell neurite outgrowth, identifying a role for this cell type in donor-host signaling. Although disruption of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans in aggregates had no effect on the neurite outgrowth of donor photoreceptors, disruption of Rho/ROCK signaling enhanced outgrowth. Collectively, these data show a novel role of Crx, Müller glia, and Rho/ROCK signaling in controlling neurite outgrowth and provide an accessible in vitro model that can be used to screen for factors that regulate donor-host connectivity. Stem Cells  2019;37:529–541
Comparing language skill priorities among TESOL faculty and ESL students bound for English‐medium universities
Authors: James Hartshorn K. , Hart Judson M. , McMurry Benjamin L.
Published: February 2019

With growing evidence that learners of English as a second language (ESL) may face linguistic disadvantages when studying at English‐medium universities, it is appropriate to identify the most effective ways to optimize their preparation. One area of interest is the relative importance university professors across disciplines place on language skills in their classrooms and how this might inform ESL teaching and learning. Thus, this study sought to identify perceptions of TESOL faculty and their ESL learners in terms of the relative importance of various English language skills such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking, and the extent to which they are aligned with the views of professors in the disciplines. Results suggest that although perceptions of TESOL faculty are well aligned with university content professors who have indicated that listening and reading are most important, students do not share this awareness and consider all language skills to be of equal value. This study also highlights the possible benefits of practitioners helping their students form appropriate and realistic expectations of pronunciation and the need for the field to better prepare practitioners to effectively teach the skill of listening.
Dynamic capabilities in the context of Brexit and international wine business: An exploratory two‐country study
Authors: Duarte Alonso Abel , Kok Seng
Published: February 2019

This exploratory study proposes a conceptual framework based on the dynamic capabilities approach (DCA) to advance the understanding of firms' responses to turbulence, illustrated by the Brexit phenomenon. The case of wine producers is examined, with a particular focus on perceived impacts of and responses to Brexit among wineries predominantly involved in exports. Data from 281 mainly micro and small exporting Italian and Spanish winery firms were gathered. Various differences emerged in how both groups of businesses perceived Brexit's impacts, and how they planned to respond. Some of these ways revealed principles associated with the DCA, such as possessing critical organizational resources, notably, tangible, intangible, and human to create capabilities. Furthermore, while various comments denoted indecisiveness and uncertainty, others underscored the vital need to exploit opportunities through engaging with new international consumer markets. Overall, the proposed framework facilitates an in‐depth understanding of winery entrepreneurs' strategic behavior in response to turbulent situations.
Plugged and Unplugged Reading: Studying the Preferences of Readers
Authors: McVicker Claudia J.
Published: February 2019

TheiPad has risen to become the preferred affordable device for classroom instruction and reading. Although multiple studies have been conducted on reading instruction and efficacy usingiPads, little empirical research currently has supported theiPad as a preferential choice by readers. Therefore, in this study, the author aimed to investigate the preferences of readers using e‐books or t‐books (traditional print books). In this qualitative case study, 98 fourth graders read three books in one of two formats: one as a t‐book, one as aniPad e‐book, and one as the reader's choice of t‐book or e‐book. Triangulated data were collected from aniPad usage questionnaire, a reading attitude survey, and focus group discussion transcripts. The results of the study indicate that readers have distinct preferences if provided a choice. Teachers should provide time for both plugged and unplugged reading daily.
Nutrient limitation and enzymolysis of phosphorus in Meiliang Bay, Lake Taihu, during algal blooms
Authors: Jiang Mengqi , Ji Xiyan , Zhou Yanping , Zhang Weizhen , Zhang Chengjin , Zhang Jibiao , Zheng Zheng
Published: February 2019

In this study, algal growth potential tests were performed in water samples collected from six sampling sites in Meiliang Bay, Lake Taihu. The potential release of soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) by enzymatic hydrolysis of enzymatically hydrolyzable phosphorus (EHP) was simultaneously evaluated. Results show that all studied regions were in highly eutrophic states, with additional nitrogen (N) or phosphorus (P) inputs, inducing negligible further increase in algal growth. EHP in water could be rapidly transformed into SRP, further supporting the proliferation of algal blooms. The shortest EHP mineralization time was calculated as 69 minutes; therefore, limiting specific nutrient inputs alone in extremely eutrophic lakes can have a limited effect on suppressing the proliferation of algal blooms. Methods to establish a suitable environmental fate for excessive nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients may be more effective and provide more significant results.

Practitioner points

N and P were no longer serving as the limiting factors in Meiliang Bay.

Enzymatically hydrolysable phosphorus could be hydrolyzed into soluble reactive phosphorus in a very short period during algal blooms.

Both enzymatically hydrolysable phosphorus and soluble reactive phosphorus are required to be curbed in practical eutrophication control.
Bone‐derived biochar and magnetic biochar for effective removal of fluoride in groundwater: Effects of synthesis method and coexisting chromium
Authors: Zhou Jingyao , Liu Yuyan , Han Yitong , Jing Fanqi , Chen Jiawei
Published: February 2019

The presence of fluoride in groundwater in excess of 1.5 mg L−1 is a major environmental health concern, and biochar is a promising low‐cost adsorbent for the treatment of such water. In the present study, pristine and magnetic biochars were synthesized by peanut hull and bovine bone for the adsorption of fluoride. The biochars were systematically characterized by SEM‐EDS, BET, XRD, VSM, FT‐IR, and XPS. The experiment results showed that the magnetic biochar prepared by soaking biomass in FeCl3 solution and then pyrolyzing (“prepyrolysis”) had a higher adsorption capacity than that prepared by mixing pristine biochar with Fe2+/Fe3+ solution and then treating with NaOH (“postpyrolysis”). The bone‐derived biochar and magnetic biochar exhibited high adsorption capacity of fluoride (>5 mg g−1) due to the presence of hydroxyapatite (HAP) and γ‐Fe2O3. The 0.1 M NaOH solution could be optimal desorption agent, and the adsorption–desorption experiments indicated the bone biochars maintained the reasonable adsorption capacity after several cycles. Moreover, the coexisting Cr(VI) and fluoride could be removed simultaneously by bone‐derived biochars. It is suggested that bovine bone‐derived pristine and magnetic biochars can be used as preferential adsorbents for fluoride removal from contaminated groundwater.

Practitioner points

Bone‐derived pristine and magnetic biochars exhibit high adsorption capacity for fluoride in weakly alkaline solution.

The presence of hydroxyapatite and γ‐Fe2O3 in bone‐derived biochars plays an important role for fluoride adsorption.

Magnetic biochars prepared by soaking biomass in FeCl3 solution and then pyrolyzing (“prepyrolysis”) perform better.

The coexisting Cr(VI) and fluoride can be simultaneously removed in groundwater by bone biochars.
Towards a new approximation for pair-production and associated-production of the Higgs boson
Authors: Xu Xiaofeng , Yang Li Lin
Published: January 2019

Abstract

We propose that loop integrals with internal heavy particles can be evaluated by expanding in the limit of small external masses. This provides a systematically improvable approximation to the integrals in the entire phase space, and works particularly well for the high energy tails of kinematic distributions (where the usual 1/M expansions cease to be valid). We demonstrate our method using Higgs boson pair production as an example. We find that at both one-loop and two-loop, our method provides good approximations to the integrals appearing in the scattering amplitudes. Comparing to existing expansion methods, our method are not restricted to a special phase space region. Combining our efficient method to compute the two-loop amplitude with an infrared subtraction method for the real emission corrections, we expect to have a fast and reliable tool to calculate the differential cross sections for Higgs boson pair production. This will be useful for phenomenological studies and for the extraction of the Higgs self-coupling from future experimental data. Our method can also be applied to other processes, such as the associated production of the Higgs boson with a jet or a Z boson.
Two-pion contribution to hadronic vacuum polarization
Authors: Colangelo Gilberto , Hoferichter Martin , Stoffer Peter
Published: February 2019

Abstract

We present a detailed analysis ofe+e−→π+π−data up to$$ \sqrt{s}=1 $$s=1GeV in the framework of dispersion relations. Starting from a family ofππ P-wave phase shifts, as derived from a previous Roy-equation analysis ofππscattering, we write down an extended Omnès representation of the pion vector form factor in terms of a few free parameters and study to which extent the modern high-statistics data sets can be described by the resulting fit function that follows from general principles of QCD. We find that statistically acceptable fits do become possible as soon as potential uncertainties in the energy calibration are taken into account, providing a strong cross check on the internal consistency of the data sets, but preferring a mass of theωmeson significantly lower than the current PDG average. In addition to a complete treatment of statistical and systematic errors propagated from the data, we perform a comprehensive analysis of the systematic errors in the dispersive representation and derive the consequences for the two-pion contribution to hadronic vacuum polarization. In a global fit to both time- and space-like data sets we findaμππ|≤ 1 GeV = 495.0(1.5)(2.1) × 10− 10andaμππ|≤ 0.63 GeV = 132.8(0.4)(1.0) × 10− 10. While the constraints are thus most stringent for low energies, we obtain uncertainty estimates throughout the whole energy range that should prove valuable in corroborating the corresponding contribution to the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon. As side products, we obtain improved constraints on theππ P-wave, valuable input for future global analyses of low-energyππscattering, as well as a determination of the pion charge radius, 〈rπ2〉 = 0.429(1)(4) fm2.
Emergency Abdominal Surgery Outcomes of Critically Ill Patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Case‐Matched Study with a Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: Taieb Anna , Jeune Florence , Lebbah Said , Schmidt Matthieu , Deransy Romain , Vaillant Jean‐Christophe , Luyt Charles‐Edouard , Trésallet Christophe , Combes Alain , Bréchot Nicolas
Published: February 2019

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) induces coagulation disorders increasing the risk of bleeding during invasive procedures. We aimed to describe the outcomes of critically ill ECMO patients undergoing emergency abdominal surgery compared to non‐ECMO patients.

Study design

This is a retrospective case‐matched single‐center study with propensity score analysis in a tertiary ICU. All patients who underwent abdominal surgery were included.

Results

From 2006 to 2014, 77 patients admitted in our ICU underwent emergency abdominal surgery, 35 were on ECMO. Surgery indications were comparable for ECMO and non‐ECMO patients: mostly intestinal ischemia (42%) and cholecystectomy (25%). Postoperative bleeding was significantly more frequent in ECMO group versus non‐ECMO: 77% versus 40% transfused, with medians of 13 (6–22) versus 3 (0–5) packed red blood cell; 9 (3–17) versus 0 (0–4) fresh frozen plasma and 12 (3–22) versus 0 (0–8) platelet units (p < 0.001 for all items). Reintervention for hemorrhage was required in 20% versus 2%, respectively, p = 0.02. At multivariable analysis, ECMO was strongly associated with bleeding (OR, 5.6 [95% CI, 2.0–15.4]; p = 0.001). ICU mortality was higher for ECMO‐treated patients (69% vs. 33%; p = 0.003), but perioperative mortality remained comparable between groups (11% vs. 12%, NS). Propensity score‐matched analysis confirmed more frequent and severe bleeding in ECMO patients.

Conclusions

Abdominal surgery procedures on ECMO‐treated patients are associated with a higher risk of hemorrhage compared to non‐ECMO ICU patients. Further studies are needed to optimize ECMO patient management during such interventions.
Evidence‐Based Management of Postoperative Pain in Adults Undergoing Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Macfater Hoani , Xia Weisi , Srinivasa Sanket , Hill Andrew Graham , Van De Velde Marc , Joshi Girsh P. ,   PROSPECT collaborators, Beloeil H. , Bonnet F. , Hill A. , Joshi G. P. , Kehlet H. , Lavand’homme P. , Lirk P. , Pogatzki‐Zahn E. , Rawal N. , Raeder J. , Schug S. , Van de Velde M.
Published: February 2019

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a common weight loss operation that is increasingly being managed on an outpatient or overnight stay basis. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the available literature and develop recommendations for optimal pain management after LSG.

Methods

A systematic review utilizing preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analysis with PROcedure SPECific Postoperative Pain ManagemenT methodology was undertaken. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in the English language from inception to September 2018 assessing postoperative pain using analgesic, anesthetic, and surgical interventions were identified from MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Databases.

Results

Significant heterogeneity was identified in the 18 RCTs included in this systematic review. Gabapentinoids and transversus abdominis plane blocks reduced LSG postoperative pain. There was limited procedure‐specific evidence of analgesic effects for acetaminophen, non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, dexamethasone, magnesium, and tramadol in this setting. Inconsistent evidence was found in the studies investigating alpha‐2‐agonists. No evidence was found for intraperitoneal local anesthetic administration or single‐port laparoscopy.

Conclusions

The literature to recommend an optimal analgesic regimen for LSG is limited. The pragmatic view supports acetaminophen and a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, with opioids as rescue analgesics. Gabapentinoids should be used with caution, as they may amplify opioid‐induced respiratory depression. Although transversus abdominis plane blocks reduced pain, port‐site infiltration may be considered instead, as it is a simple and inexpensive approach that provides adequate somatic blockade. Further RCTs are required to confirm the influence of the recommended analgesic regimen on postoperative pain relief.
Comparison of gal–lac operons in wild-type galactose-positive and -negative Streptococcus thermophilus by genomics and transcription analysis
Authors: Xiong Zhi-Qiang , Kong Ling-Hui , Meng Hai-Lin , Cui Jin-Ming , Xia Yong-Jun , Wang Shi-Jie , Ai Lian-Zhong
Published: February 2019

Streptococcus thermophilus is one of the most important homo-fermentative thermophilic bacteria, which is widely used as a starter culture in dairy industry. Both wild-type galactose-negative (Gal−) S. thermophilus AR333 and galactose-positive (Gal+) S. thermophilus S-3 in this study were isolated from Chinese traditional dairy products. Here, to access the mechanism of the difference of galactose utilization between strains AR333 and S-3, the expression of gal–lac operons was examined using real-time qPCR in the presence of different sugars, and the gene organization of gal–lac operons was characterized using comparative genomics analysis. As compared with medium containing glucose, the expression of gal–lac operons in AR333 and S-3 was significantly activated (> 5-fold) in the presence of galactose or lactose in the medium. More importantly, the expression of gal operon in S-3 was higher than that of AR333, suggesting that the strength of gal promoter in AR333 and S-3 may be different. The genomes of AR333 and S-3 were the first time sequenced to provide insight into the difference of gal–lac operons in these two strains. Comparative genomics analysis showed that gene order and individual gene size of gal–lac operons are conserved in AR333 and S-3. The DNA sequence of gal operon responsible for galactose utilization between AR333 and S-3 is almost identical except that galK promoter of S-3 possesses single base pair mutation (G to A substitution) at -9 box galK region. Moreover, the expression of red fluorescent protein can be activated by galK promoter of S-3, but cannot by galK promoter of AR333 in galactose medium, suggesting that gal operon is silent in AR333 and active in S-3 under galactose-containing medium. Overall, our results indicated that single point mutation at -9 box in the galK promoter can significantly affect the expression of gal operon and is largely responsible for the Gal+ phenotype of S. thermophilus.
Chebyshev collocation treatment of Volterra–Fredholm integral equation with error analysis
Authors: Youssri Y. H. , Hafez R. M.
Published: February 2019

This work reports a collocation algorithm for the numerical solution of a Volterra–Fredholm integral equation (V-FIE), using shifted Chebyshev collocation (SCC) method. Some properties of the shifted Chebyshev polynomials are presented. These properties together with the shifted Gauss–Chebyshev nodes were then used to reduce the Volterra–Fredholm integral equation to the solution of a matrix equation. Nextly, the error analysis of the proposed method is presented. We compared the results of this algorithm with others and showed the accuracy and potential applicability of the given method.
Correlation of Doppler Velocimetry of Uterine and Umbilical Arteries with Placental Pathology in Pregnancy Associated with Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Authors: Maged Ahmed M. , Waly Mohamed , AbdelHak Ahmed , Eissa Tamer S. , Osman Nada K.
Published: February 2019

To correlate histomorphology of the placenta with Doppler studies of uterine and umbilical arteries. A comparative observational study conducted on 75 pregnant women divided into 2 groups: Group 1 included 25 women with appropriate for gestational age fetuses. Group 2 included 50 women with FGR. Uterine and umbilical artery Doppler, study of placental pathology and immunohistochemistry of placental villous tissues were evaluated. There was a significant difference between the two study groups regarding both abnormal uterine (0 vs. 58%) and umbilical artery (0 vs. 58%) Doppler (p≤<≤0.001). Syncytial knots≤>≤30% (44 vs. 60%), fibrinoid necrosis≤>≤5% (8 vs. 46.7%), placental infarction≤>≤5% (0 vs. 15%), perivillous fibrinoid deposition≤>≤5% (1.8 vs. 16.7%) (p≤<≤0.001) but not calcifications (56 vs. 60%, p≤=≤0.121) were significantly higher in FGR placentas. A statistically significant (p≤<≤0.001) increase in the expression of VEGF in FGR placentas when compared with normal placentas. Abnormal uterine artery but not umbilical artery Doppler was significantly associated with abnormal placental pathology. Women with both abnormal uterine and umbilical artery Doppler velocimetries were delivered earlier and their babies had lower mean birth and placental weight (p≤<≤0.001). Incidence of abnormal placental pathology was significantly higher in this specific group of FGR pregnancies (p≤<≤0.001). There is high association between abnormal uterine and umbilical artery Doppler and placental pathology in FGR associated pregnancies.

Trial Registration NCT03081754.
Correction to: Development and Comparison of Algorithms to Derive Vehicle Location from Speed Profile Data
Authors: Powell Jonathan Peter , Palacín Roberto
Published: January 2019

The first sentence of Abstract should be “The rapid increases in the quantity of data being gathered from technological systems such as railways can be used to improve their design and operation”.
The associations among self‐criticism, hopelessness, rumination, and NSSI in adolescents: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Gong Tieying , Ren Yaxuan , Wu Jie , Jiang Yongqiang , Hu Wenpeng , You Jianing
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) is a pervasive public health problem among adolescents. Self‐criticism has been identified as an important risk factor for NSSI. Potential mediators of the relationship between self‐criticism and NSSI and potential moderators that may exacerbate or buffer this association, however, have seldom been explored. The current study tested the mediating effect of hopelessness and the moderating effect of rumination.

Methods

915 Chinese participants (405 girls; mean age = 15.85, SD = 1.47) were recruited from junior and senior high schools. They completed questionnaires regarding self‐criticism, hopelessness, rumination, and NSSI.

Results

Self‐criticism was significantly associated with NSSI, and this association was mediated by hopelessness. Rumination strengthened the association between self‐criticism and hopelessness, as well as the association between hopelessness and NSSI.

Conclusions

Although this study is a cross‐sectional design, these findings can help researchers and practitioners understand the relationship among self‐criticism, hopelessness, rumination, and NSSI. Moreover, implications for preventions and interventions of NSSI were discussed.
Maintenance in aeronautics in an Industry 4.0 context: The role of Augmented Reality and Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Ceruti Alessandro , Marzocca Pier , Liverani Alfredo , Bil Cees
Published: February 2019

The paper broadly addresses how Industry 4.0 program drivers will impact maintenance in aviation. Specifically, Industry 4.0 practices most suitable to aeronautical maintenance are selected, and a detailed exposure is provided. Advantages and open issues are widely discussed and case studies dealing with realistic scenarios are illustrated to support what has been proposed by authors. The attention has been oriented towards Augmented Reality and Additive Manufacturing technologies, which can support maintenance tasks and spare parts production, respectively. The intention is to demonstrate that Augmented Reality and Additive Manufacturing are viable tools in aviation maintenance, and while a strong effort is necessary to develop an appropriate regulatory framework, mandatory before the wide-spread introduction of these technologies in the aerospace systems maintenance process, there has been a great interest and pull from the industry sector.

Highlights Industry 4.0 practices most suitable to aeronautical maintenance are selected. Advantages and open issues are widely discussed and case studies are illustrated. Augmented Reality can support maintenance tasks. Additive Manufacturing can be useful to produce spare parts. A strong effort is necessary to develop an appropriate aeronautical regulatory framework.
Local and global pairing instabilities of two interlaced helical vortices
Authors: Quaranta Hugo Umberto , Brynjell-Rahkola Mattias , Leweke Thomas , Henningson Dan S.
Published: January 2019

We investigate theoretically and experimentally the stability of two interlaced helical vortices with respect to displacement perturbations having wavelengths that are large compared to the size of the vortex cores. First, existing theoretical results are recalled and applied to the present configuration. Various modes of unstable perturbations, involving different phase relationships between the two vortices, are identified and their growth rates are calculated. They lead to a local pairing of neighbouring helix loops, or to a global pairing with one helix expanding and the other one contracting. A relation is established between this instability and the three-dimensional pairing of arrays of straight parallel vortices, and a striking quantitative agreement concerning the growth rates and frequencies is found. This shows that the local pairing of vortices is the driving mechanism behind the instability of the helix system. Second, an experimental study designed to observe these instabilities in a real flow is presented. Two helical vortices are generated by a two-bladed rotor in a water channel and characterised through dye visualisations and particle image velocimetry measurements. Unstable displacement modes are triggered individually, either by varying the rotation frequency of the rotor, or by imposing a small rotor eccentricity. The observed unstable mode structure, and the corresponding growth rates obtained from advanced processing of visualisation sequences, are in good agreement with theoretical predictions. The nonlinear late stages of the instability are also documented experimentally. Whereas local pairing leads to strong deformations and subsequent breakup of the vortices, global pairing results in a leapfrogging phenomenon, which temporarily restores the initial double-helix geometry, in agreement with recent observations from numerical simulations.
Scale invariance in finite Reynolds number homogeneous isotropic turbulence
Authors: Djenidi L. , Antonia R. A. , Tang S. L.
Published: February 2019

The problem of homogeneous isotropic turbulence (HIT) is revisited within the analytical framework of the Navier–Stokes equations, with a view to assessing rigorously the consequences of the scale invariance (an exact property of the Navier–Stokes equations) for any Reynolds number. The analytical development, which is independent of the 1941 (K41) and 1962 (K62) theories of Kolmogorov for HIT for infinitely large Reynolds number, is applied to the transport equations for the second- and third-order moments of the longitudinal velocity increment, $(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}u)$. Once the normalised equations and the constraints required for complying with the scale-invariance property of the equations are presented, results derived from these equations and constraints are discussed and compared with measurements. It is found that the fluid viscosity, $\unicode[STIX]{x1D708}$, and the mean kinetic energy dissipation rate, $\overline{\unicode[STIX]{x1D716}}$ (the overbar denotes spatial and/or temporal averaging), are the only scaling parameters that make the equations scale-invariant. The analysis further leads to expressions for the distributions of the skewness and the flatness factor of $(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}u)$ and shows that these distributions must exhibit plateaus (of different magnitudes) in the dissipative and inertial ranges, as the Taylor microscale Reynolds number $Re_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}}$ increases indefinitely. Also, the skewness and flatness factor of the longitudinal velocity derivative become constant as $Re_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}}$ increases; this is supported by experimental data. Further, the analysis, backed up by experimental evidence, shows that, beyond the dissipative range, the behaviour of $\overline{(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}u)^{n}}$ with $n=2$, 3 and 4 cannot be represented by a power law of the form $r^{\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}_{n}}$ when the Reynolds number is finite. It is shown that only when $Re_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}}\rightarrow \infty$ can an $n$-thirds law (i.e. $\overline{(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FF}u)^{n}}\sim r^{\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}_{n}}$, with $\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}_{n}=n/3$) emerge, which is consistent with the onset of a scaling range.
Upper Miocene Ostracoda in a gravity flow deposit in Central Japan: significance of paleogeography and paleoceanography
Authors: Tanaka Gengo , Moriwaki Hiroshi
Published: February 2019

GenusNeosinocythereis described from the upper Miocene Itahana Formation in Central Japan, documenting the first record from Japan. TheNeosinocytherespecies were discovered in gravity-flow sediments that were deposited below a depth of 84.9 m with a paleo-summer bottom temperature of 23.7°C and a paleo-winter bottom temperature of 14.1°C, based on a modern analog technique using the ostracode assemblage. Paleobiogeographical and paleoenvironmental analyses indicate thatNeosinocythereappeared around the southeastern coast of the Eurasian continent, extended distribution in the northern coast of the Eurasian continent before migrating southward along the coast of the Eurasian continent as global temperatures decreased. The high-diversity area shifted from high latitudes to low latitudes.
Dispersion of Echinococcus granulosus eggs from infected dogs under natural conditions in Patagonia, Argentina
Authors: Sánchez Thevenet P. , Alvarez H.M. , Torrecillas C. , Jensen O. , Basualdo J.A.
Published: February 2019

Cystic echinococcosis caused by Echinococcus granulosus is a major zoonosis of public health significance in the Patagonian region of Argentina. This investigation sought to test the hypothesis that the persistence and dispersion of the parasite eggs can be explained by physical and meteorological parameters along with final host infection and behaviour. This observational study was carried out over a five-year period within an enclosure where two dogs harbouring a worm burden ranging from 100 to 1000 mature adult E. granulosus, as well as two uninfected dogs, had previously been kept for six months. Environmental canine faeces, topsoil, pond water, and sediment samples were examined to control for the presence of eggs and coproantigens of the parasite using microscope-based techniques and copro-ELISA plus copro-Western Blot tests. The parasite eggs were detected up to 41 months later in faeces from infected dogs, soil and sediment, and coproantigen tests remained positive for up to 70 months in faeces. Overall, parasite eggs were found within a maximum distance of 115 m from the contaminated dog faeces deposition site. Our findings indicate that under Patagonian environmental conditions, egg persistence and dispersion seem to be related to the worm burden and habits of the infected dog, to prevailing wind direction and to the existence of low bushes as well as natural bodies of water. The present study is the first to provide direct evidence of interaction between bioclimatic conditions and E. granulosus egg dispersion under Patagonian field conditions.
Evaluation of Bio-Inspired Scales on Locomotion Performance of Snake-Like Robots
Authors: Chang Alexander H. , Vela Patricio A.
Published: February 2019

The unique frictional properties conferred by snake ventral scales inspired the engineering and fabrication of surrogate mechanisms for a robotic snake. These artificial, biologically inspired scales produce anisotropic body-ground forcing patterns with various locomotion surfaces. The benefits they confer to robotic snake-like locomotion were evaluated in experimental trials employing rectilinear, lateral undulation, and sidewinding gaits over several distinct surface types: carpet, inhomogeneous concrete and homogeneous concrete. Enhanced locomotive performance, with respect to net displacement and heading stability, was consistently measured in scenarios that utilized the engineered scales, over equivalent scenarios where the anisotropic effects of scales were absent.
Successional dynamics of a regenerated forest in a plantation landscape in Southern India
Authors: Nerlekar Ashish N. , Kamath Vignesh , Saravanan A. , Ganesan R.
Published: February 2019

We monitored native forest regeneration over 11 y in a eucalyptus plantation and compared it with the neighbouring primary forest. For the plantation forest, we hypothesized that species richness, density, basal area and densities of old-growth species would increase over time, and compared to the primary forest, plantation forest would have higher species richness and density, but lower densities of old-growth species. In 2016, we repeated the protocol of a study that sampled the plantation forest in 2005, with thirty 10 × 10-m plots and enumerating trees (≥10 cm diameter), saplings (>1 to <10 cm diameter) and seedlings (<1 cm diameter). In the plantation forest, for trees, the species richness, density of gap, bird-dispersed and mammal-dispersed species increased by 67%, 156%, 116% and 238% respectively; whereas for saplings, density of gap, bird-dispersed and small-seeded species declined by 45.2%, 51% and 18.2% respectively over time; and seedling densities did not change across functional groups. Stand basal area increased by 80.1% in the plantation forest. The primary forest had 446% greater density of closed-canopy trees compared with plantation forest. Contrary to our prediction, the plantation forest did not accumulate significant densities of old-growth species over time, probably due to demographic filters that prevent them from attaining maturity.
Non-Human Whalers in Nuu-chah-nulth Art and Ritual: Reappraising Orca in Archaeological Context
Authors: McMillan Alan D.
Published: February 2019

Whaling was a central aspect of Nuu-chah-nulth, Ditidaht and Makah culture on the northwest coast of North America. Not only was it economically important, it was vital to chiefly prestige. Art and ceremonial life were dominated by themes related to whaling. Thunderbird, the great supernatural whaler, was the source of hereditary prerogatives held by chiefs, including names, dances, regalia and rights to display images of thunderbird and whale. This paper argues that human observations of predatory behaviour by orcas (or killer whales) led to these animals also being perceived as non-human whalers from which chiefly prerogatives could be obtained. Wolves, the main figures in Nuu-chah-nulth ceremonial life, had the power to transform into orcas, explaining their frequent presence in the art with thunderbirds and whales. This paper presents archaeological evidence for orca in the context of whaling and offers interpretations based on the extensive ethnographic and oral historical records. It also places perceptions of animals, the role of the hunter's wife and beliefs about orca in a broader context involving hunting societies in northwestern North America.
Correlative Atom Probe Tomography and Transmission Electron Microscopy Analysis of Grain Boundaries in Thermally Grown Alumina Scale
Authors: Povstugar Ivan , Weber Juliane , Naumenko Dmitry , Huang Taihong , Klinkenberg Martina , Quadakkers Willem J.
Published: February 2019

We employed correlative atom probe tomography (APT) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to analyze the alumina scale thermally grown on the oxide dispersion-strengthened alloy MA956. Segregation of Ti and Y and associated variation in metal/oxygen stoichiometry at the grain boundaries and triple junctions of alumina were quantified and discussed with respect to the oxidation behavior of the alloy, in particular, to the formation of cation vacancies. Correlative TEM analysis was helpful to avoid building pragmatically well-looking but substantially incorrect APT reconstructions, which can result in erroneous quantification of segregating species, and highlights the need to consider ionic volumes and detection efficiency in the reconstruction routine. We also demonstrate a cost-efficient, robust, and easy-handling setup for correlative analysis based solely on commercially available components, which can be used with all conventional TEM tools without the need to modify the specimen holder assembly.
Atom Probe Tomography Interlaboratory Study on Clustering Analysis in Experimental Data Using the Maximum Separation Distance Approach
Authors: Dong Yan , Etienne Auriane , Frolov Alex , Fedotova Svetlana , Fujii Katsuhiko , Fukuya Koji , Hatzoglou Constantinos , Kuleshova Evgenia , Lindgren Kristina , London Andrew , Lopez Anabelle , Lozano-Perez Sergio , Miyahara Yuichi , Nagai Yasuyoshi , Nishida Kenji , Radiguet Bertrand , Schreiber Daniel K. , Soneda Naoki , Thuvander Mattias , Toyama Takeshi , Wang Jing , Sefta Faiza , Chou Peter , Marquis Emmanuelle A.
Published: February 2019

We summarize the findings from an interlaboratory study conducted between ten international research groups and investigate the use of the commonly used maximum separation distance and local concentration thresholding methods for solute clustering quantification. The study objectives are: to bring clarity to the range of applicability of the methods; identify existing and/or needed modifications; and interpretation of past published data. Participants collected experimental data from a proton-irradiated 304 stainless steel and analyzed Cu-rich and Ni–Si rich clusters. The datasets were also analyzed by one researcher to clarify variability originating from different operators. The Cu distribution fulfills the ideal requirements of the maximum separation method (MSM), namely a dilute matrix Cu concentration and concentrated Cu clusters. This enabled a relatively tight distribution of the cluster number density among the participants. By contrast, the group analysis of the Ni–Si rich clusters by the MSM was complicated by a high Ni matrix concentration and by the presence of Si-decorated dislocations, leading to larger variability among researchers. While local concentration filtering could, in principle, tighten the results, the cluster identification step inevitably maintained a high scatter. Recommendations regarding reporting, selection of analysis method, and expected variability when interpreting published data are discussed.