bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dcdftbmd: Divide‐and‐Conquer Density Functional Tight‐Binding Program for Huge‐System Quantum Mechanical Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Nishimura Yoshifumi , Nakai Hiromi
Published: March 2019

Dcdftbmd is a Fortran 90/95 program that enables efficient quantum mechanical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations using divide‐and‐conquer density functional tight‐binding (DC‐DFTB) method. Based on the remarkable performance of previous massively parallel DC‐DFTB energy and gradient calculations for huge systems, the code has been specialized to MD simulations. Recent implementations and modifications including DFTB extensions, improved computational speed in the DC‐DFTB computational steps, algorithms for efficient initial guess charge prediction, and free energy calculations via metadynamics technique have enhanced the capability to obtain atomistic insights in novel applications to nanomaterials and biomolecules. The energy, structure, and other molecular properties are also accessible through the single‐point calculation, geometry optimization, and vibrational frequency analysis. The available functionalities are outlined together with efficiency tests and simulation examples. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of a physical activity programme to prevent physical performance decline in onco‐geriatric patients: a randomized multicentre trial
Authors: Arrieta Haritz , Astrugue Cyril , Regueme Sophie , Durrieu Jessica , Maillard Aline , Rieger Alban , Terrebonne Eric , Laurent Christophe , Maget Brigitte , Servent Véronique , Lavau‐Denès Sandrine , Dauba Jérôme , Fonck Marianne , Thiébaut Rodolphe , Bourdel‐Marchasson Isabelle
Published: March 2019

Background

Older adults with cancer experience negative long‐term functional effects of both cancer and treatments. Exercise may minimize their age‐related and cancer‐related functional decline.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre open‐label 12 month randomized clinical trial with two parallel arms including participants aged ≥70 years with lymphoma or carcinoma requiring curative treatment. The study started at the beginning of any phase of cancer treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy). The usual care group (UCG) received the current national recommendations in physical activity (a guideline without specific counselling). The intervention group (IG) received 1 year phoned physical activity advice individually adapted to physical assessment (twice a month during the first 6 months and then monthly). The primary outcome was the proportion of subjects with a 1 year decreased short physical performance battery (SPPB) score of 1 point or more. Physical, cognitive, and clinical secondary outcomes were also investigated.

Results

We allocated 301 participants (age 76.7 ± 5.0, female 60.6%) to each group. At baseline, the median SPPB was 10/12 in both groups. Breast was the most frequent tumour site (35.7%). After 1 year, 14.0% of participants in the UCG and 18.7% in the IG had a decrease in SPPB score of 1 point or more (P = 0.772). At 2 years, there was no difference in SPPB, gait speed, International Physical Activity Questionnaire score, and verbal fluency. Subgroup analyses after 2 years showed a decline in SPPB for 29.8% of UCG and 5.0% of IG breast cancer participants (P = 0.006), in 21.7% of UCG and 6.2% of IG female participants (P = 0.019), and in 24.5% of UCG and 11.1% of IG normal nutritional status participants (P = 0.009). Falls, hospitalization, institutionalization, and death rates were similar in both groups.

Conclusions

Personalized phoned physical activity advice had not reduced functional decline at 1 year but provided preliminary evidence that may prevent physical performance decline at 2 years in older adults with breast cancer.
Avian responses to aircraft in an airport environment
Authors: Blackwell Bradley F. , Seamans Thomas W. , Fernández‐Juricic Esteban , Devault Travis L. , Outward Randy J.
Published: March 2019

Understanding how free‐ranging birds react to approaching aircraft can provide the foundation for predicting and mitigating risk of bird strikes. We characterized responses by avian species to aircraft (propeller‐driven, jet, rotorcraft) approach (taxi, takeoffs, landings) at Burke Lakefront Airport, Cleveland, Ohio, USA, from June 2015 through September 2016. Based on opportunistic observations from fixed points on the airfield, we quantified 208 bird‐aircraft interactions across 16 species. However, we focused analyses on 5 species with >10 bird‐aircraft interactions (n = 176): American kestrel (Falco sparvarious), European starling (Sturnus vulgaris), killdeer (Charadrius vociferous), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), and red‐winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus). We evaluated the common measure of perceived risk, flight‐initiation distance (FID), and the likelihood of response (i.e., a measureable FID), each relative to species, flock size, flock altitude, perch height, aircraft approach category, and airframe type. We also assessed effects of light, temperature, and wind speed. None of our predictors contributed to FID. Across the 5 species, birds exposed to direct aircraft approach were ≥2 times more likely to initiate escape as those approached tangentially. The larger mourning dove was, by a factor ≥2, more likely to initiate escape response. As flock size increased, birds were more likely to initiate escape response. Birds were >2 times more likely to initiate escape when approaches involved jets relative to propeller‐driven airframes. Because smaller species were less likely to initiate escape response, thereby enhancing the possibility of latent responses close to aircraft, we suggest that airport biologists should not disregard management to reduce strike hazards posed by smaller species. Further, bird habitat on airfields and fixtures that concentrate bird use in a direct line of aircraft approach will inherently increase the frequency of bird‐aircraft interactions. Finally, our findings on flock size and airframe type underscore the need for continued efforts to develop methods to enhance avian detection of and response to approaching aircraft. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Efficacy of oral appliance therapy in patients following uvulopalatopharyngoplasty failure
Authors: Stanley Jeffrey J. , Shelgikar Anita V. , Aronovich Sharon , O'Brien Louise M.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is the most common surgical procedure performed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This surgery, when performed alone, benefits only a minority of patients. This study was undertaken to determine the efficacy of oral appliance (OA) therapy following unsuccessful UPPP and assess for specific patient and polysomnographic characteristics that may identify those patients most likely to benefit from this combined treatment strategy.

Study Design

Retrospective of clinical outcomes in patients undergoing UPPP followed by treatment with an OA.

Methods

Polysomnographic results (baseline, status post‐UPPP, and status post‐UPPP with oral appliance use), age, gender, race, and body mass index were subjected to statistical analysis.

Results

The mean apnea hypopnea index (AHI) decreased from 23.6 at baseline to 8.6 following UPPP and oral appliance therapy. The mean O2 nadir increased from 83% at baseline to 89.9% following UPPP and treatment with an oral appliance. Fifty percent of patients (9/18) achieved an AHI <5 and were deemed “cured” of their disease. Seventy‐three percent of patients (13/18) achieved benefit with an AHI <20 and ≥50% reduction in their baseline AHI, deemed “successful therapy.” No statistically relevant demographic or polysomnographic differences were found between those who were “cured” and those with persistent disease with the exception that the O2 nadir status post UPPP was found to be lower in the “cured” group.

Conclusion

Oral appliance therapy is an effective treatment option for the majority of patients who have persistent obstructive sleep apnea following unsuccessful UPPP.

Level of Evidence

4
The transformation of macrophyte‐derived organic matter to methane relates to plant water and nutrient contents
Authors: Grasset Charlotte , Abril Gwenaël , Mendonça Raquel , Roland Fabio , Sobek Sebastian
Published: March 2019

Macrophyte detritus is one of the main sources of organic carbon (OC) in inland waters, and it is potentially available for methane (CH4) production in anoxic bottom waters and sediments. However, the transformation of macrophyte‐derived OC into CH4 has not been studied systematically, thus its extent and relationship with macrophyte characteristics remains uncertain. We performed decomposition experiments of macrophyte detritus from 10 different species at anoxic conditions, in presence and absence of a freshwater sediment, in order to relate the extent and rate of CH4 production to the detritus water content, C/N and C/P ratios. A significant fraction of the macrophyte OC was transformed to CH4 (mean = 7.9%; range = 0–15.0%) during the 59‐d incubation, and the mean total C loss to CO2 and CH4 was 17.3% (range = 1.3–32.7%). The transformation efficiency of macrophyte OC to CH4 was significantly and positively related to the macrophyte water content, and negatively to its C/N and C/P ratios. The presence of sediment increased the transformation efficiency to CH4 from an average of 4.0% (without sediment) to 11.8%, possibly due to physicochemical conditions favorable for CH4 production (low redox potential, buffered pH) or because sediment particles facilitate biofilm formation. The relationship between macrophyte characteristics and CH4 production can be used by future studies to model CH4 emission in systems colonized by macrophytes. Furthermore, this study highlights that the extent to which macrophyte detritus is mixed with sediment also affects CH4 production.
Aqueous Synthesis of Multi‐Carbon Dot Cross‐Linked Polyethyleneimine Particles with Enhanced Photoluminescent Properties
Authors: Yao Yuan , Niu Dechao , Lee Cheng Hao , Li Yongsheng , Li Pei
Published: March 2019

Heavy‐metal‐free fluorescent nanoparticles with high photostability and low toxicity are highly desirable as imaging probes for biological applications. Here, a novel synthetic strategy to prepare ultrabright multi‐carbon dot cross‐linked PEI particles, namely CDs@PEI, through self‐assembly of hydrophobically modified PEI and in situ generations of carbon dots within residual monomer‐swollen micelles is reported. The resulting particles consist of numerous carbon dots, which are individually and homogeneously embedded within the PEI network, and have an average hydrodynamic diameter of approximately 100 nm with ζ‐potential above +35 mV. The CDs@PEI particles possess the synergistic effect of photoluminescent carbon dot and crosslink‐enhanced emission of PEI, giving the particles superior optical properties such as high fluorescence quantum yield (up to 66%) in the aqueous system, excitation‐dependent emission phenomenon, stable fluorescence in a wide pH range, and resistance to photobleaching.
Characterizing the bacterial community across the gastrointestinal tract of goats: Composition and potential function
Authors: Wang Lizhi , Jin Lei , Xue Bai , Wang Zhisheng , Peng Quanhui
Published: March 2019

The composition and function of the microbial community in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) have increasingly captured the attention of nutritionists because these traits affect the nutrient utilization efficiency and health of host animals. Little information has been reported on these aspects of the goat GIT. This study used 12 female goats (weighing 20.70 ± 1.60 kg and 10 months of age) to examine the composition and function of the microbiota in the rumen, abomasum, jejunum, cecum, and colon. Total genomic DNA was extracted from chyme samples from different sections of the GIT, and the hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene was amplified by PCR using bacterial universal primers. The amplicons were sequenced on an Illumina MiSeq platform, and the biological information was analyzed using QIIME software. A total of 857 genera that belonged to 39 phyla were observed across the goat GIT, with Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes dominating. Our results revealed significant differences in the composition, diversity, and species abundance of the bacterial communities in the different sections of the GIT. However, the compositions of the bacterial communities in adjacent GIT segments showed similarities in addition to differences. The study indicated that there were significant differences in microbial function among the GIT regions. In particular, the relative abundances of genes involved in energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, and glycan metabolism were overrepresented in samples from the forestomach, and genes related to energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and glycan metabolism were mainly enriched in samples from the small intestine. Additionally, the relative abundances of bacteria at the phylum and genus levels were significantly correlated with these metabolic functions. In general, there were significant differences in composition and potential function among the bacterial communities in the goat GIT.
CDK6 3'UTR polymorphisms alter the susceptibility to cervical cancer among Uyghur females
Authors: Aierken Kailibinuer , Dong Zhihong , Abulimiti Tangnuer , Zhang Yuanyuan , Abuduxikuer Guzhalinuer , Tuerxun Gulixian , Abudurexiti Guligeina , Maimaitiaishan Aziguli , Mijiti Patiman , Abulizi Guzhalinuer
Published: March 2019

Aims

Cyclin dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) plays a crucial role in malignant tumor whereas less is reported in cervical cancer development. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of CDK6 3' untranslated region (3'UTR) polymorphisms on cervical cancer susceptibility among Uyghur females.

Methods

The genotypes of the six CDK6 variants (rs8179, rs42032, rs42033, rs42034, rs42035, and rs42038) were identified among 306 cervical cancer cases and 310 healthy controls with the Agena MassARRAY platform. The associations of the candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with the cervical cancer risk were evaluated under genetic models using conditional logistic regression analysis. Bioinformatics analysis was performed for SNP function prediction with the online databases. The expression differences between tumor tissues and normal cervix samples were also examined by Real‐time PCR.

Results

CDK6 rs8179 and rs42033 were correlated to the decreased risk of cervical cancer in Uyghurs under the allele model (rs8179 and rs42033: OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.37–0.99, p = 0.043) and log‐additive model (rs8179 and rs42033: OR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.38–1.00, p = 0.047). Rs8179, rs42032, and rs42033 were associated with susceptibility to high‐grade cervical cancer in different genetic models as well (p < 0.05). Dataset‐based analysis also uncovered the potential effects of these significant SNPs. In addition, aberrant expression of CDK6 were detected in cervical tumors.

Conclusions

Our results suggested the relationships between CDK6 3'UTR polymorphisms and cervical cancer pathogenesis, and the involvement of CDK6 in cervical cancer development among Uyghur females.
California bill would grant full practice authority to nurse practitioners
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: March 2019

A California bill that would give full practice authority to nurse practitioners (NPs), including psychiatric specialists, to work to the full extent of their training and education has been introduced to address a shortage of health care providers, especially in rural and underserved areas. To date, nearly half of states and U.S. territories have adopted full practice authority licensure laws for NPs.
High temporal resolution arterial spin labeling MRI with whole‐brain coverage by combining time‐encoding with Look‐Locker and simultaneous multi‐slice imaging
Authors: van der Plas Merlijn C.E. , Teeuwisse Wouter M. , Schmid Sophie , Chappell Michael , van Osch Matthias J.P.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The goal of this study was to achieve high temporal resolution, multi‐time point pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling (pCASL) MRI in a time‐efficient manner, while maintaining whole‐brain coverage.

Methods

A Hadamard 8‐matrix was used to dynamically encode the pCASL labeling train, thereby providing the first source of temporal information. The second method for obtaining dynamic arterial spin labeling (ASL) signal consisted of a Look‐Locker (LL) readout of 4 phases that are acquired with a flip‐angle sweep to maintain constant sensitivity over the phases. To obtain whole‐brain coverage in the short LL interval, 4 slices were excited simultaneously by multi‐banded radiofrequency pulses. After subtraction according to the Hadamard scheme, the ASL signal was corrected for the use of the flip‐angle sweep and background suppression pulses. The BASIL toolkit of the Oxford Centre for FMRIB was used to quantify the ASL signal.

Results

By combining a time‐encoded pCASL labeling scheme with an LL readout and simultaneous multi‐slice acquisition, 28 time points of 16 slices with a 75‐ or 150‐ms time resolution were acquired in a total scan time of 10 minutes 20 seconds, from which cerebral blood flow (CBF) maps, arterial transit time maps, and arterial blood volume could be determined.

Conclusion

Whole‐brain ASL images were acquired with a 75‐ms time resolution for the angiography and 150‐ms resolution for the perfusion phase by combining the proposed techniques. Reducing the total scan time to 1 minute 18 seconds still resulted in reasonable CBF maps, which demonstrates the feasibility of this approach for practical studies on brain hemodynamics.
Steady‐state double‐angle method for rapid B1 mapping
Authors: Bouhrara Mustapha , Spencer Richard G.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To introduce an accurate, rapid, and practical method for active B1 field mapping based on the double‐angle method (DAM) in the steady‐state (SS) signal regime.

Methods

We introduced and evaluated the performance of the SS‐DAM approach to map the B1 field and compared the results to those calculated from the conventional DAM approach. Similar to DAM, SS‐DAM uses the signal intensity ratio of 2 magnitude images acquired with different flip angles using the spoiled gradient recalled echo sequence. However, unlike DAM, in SS‐DAM, these 2 spoiled gradient recalled echo images are acquired with very short TR, which allows substantially reduced acquisition time. Numerical, phantom, and in vivo brain imaging analyses, representing a wide range of T1s and large B1 variation, were conducted. Methods for further accelerating acquisition were also investigated.

Results

Our results demonstrate the potential of the SS‐DAM approach to be applied widely in the clinical setting. B1 maps derived from SS‐DAM were demonstrated to be quantitatively comparable to those derived from DAM but were derived much more rapidly. Large‐volume B1 maps were obtained at a field strength of 3 tesla within clinically acceptable acquisition times.

Conclusion

SS‐DAM permits accurate B1 mapping in the clinical setting, with whole‐brain coverage in less than 1 min.
Synthesis of a novel polyphosphazene/triazine bi‐group flame retardant in situ doping nano zinc oxide and its application in poly (lactic acid) resin
Authors: Xu Lifeng , Wu Xingde , Li Linshan , Chen Yajun
Published: March 2019

A novel polyphosphazene/triazine bi‐group flame retardant in situ doping nano ZnO (A4‐d‐ZnO) was synthesized and applied in poly (lactic acid) (PLA). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (SSNMR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) were used to confirm the chemical structure of A4‐d‐ZnO. The thermal stability and the flame‐retardant properties of the PLA composites were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical burning test (UL‐94), and micro combustion calorimeter (MCC) test. The results of XPS showed that A4‐d‐ZnO has been synthesized, and the doping ratio of ZnO was 7.2% in flame‐retardant A4‐d‐ZnO. TGA results revealed that A4‐d‐ZnO had good char forming ability (40 wt% at 600°C). The results of LOI, vertical burning test, and MCC showed that PLA/5%A4‐d‐ZnO composite acquired a higher LOI value (24%), higher UL94 rating, and lower pk‐HRR (501 kW/m2) comparing with that of pure PLA. It indicated that a small amount of flame‐retardant A4‐d‐ZnO could achieve great flame‐retardant performance in PLA composites. The catalytic chain scission effect of A4‐d‐ZnO could make PLA composites drip with flame and go out during combustion, which was the reason for the good flame‐retardant property. Moreover, after the addition of A4‐d‐ZnO, the impaired mechanical properties of PLA composites are minimal enough.
Augmented physico‐chemical, crystalline, mechanical, and biocompatible properties of electrospun polyurethane titanium dioxide composite patch for cardiac tissue engineering
Authors: Jaganathan Saravana Kumar , Mani Mohan Prasath , Sivalingam Sivakumar
Published: March 2019

Although there is enormous growth in the technology for cardiovascular applications, remodeling of the damaged cardiac tissue is still a daunted task. Polymeric scaffold could be able to regenerate the human cardiomyocytes which facilitate the remodeling of the cardiac damage. The objective of the study is to fabricate polyurethane (PU) cardiac patch added with titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanofibers using electrospinning technique. The morphological investigation demonstrated the reduced fiber (666 ± 155 nm) and pore diameter (862 ± 75 nm) of the fabricated nanocomposite compare with the pristine PU (fiber diameter – 890 ± 117 nm and pore diameter – 1,064 ± 74 nm). Field emission scanning microscopy (FESEM), infrared (IR) spectrum, and thermal analysis confirmed the existence of titanium dioxide in the pristine PU. The wettability study showed the hydrophobic behavior (109° ± 1.53°) of electrospun PU/titanium dioxide nanocomposites than the pristine PU (100° ± 0.58°). X‐ray diffraction (XRD) study denoted the crystalline behavior of the pristine PU with the addition of titanium dioxide. Tensile (19.48 MPa) and surface (425 nm [Ra]) testing indicated that the addition of titanium dioxide improved the mechanical and surface roughness of the pristine PU (tensile strength – 7.12 MPa and roughness – 313 nm). The coagulation and cytotoxicity study depicted the enhanced anticoagulant behavior and improved cell viability of the developed nanocomposites than the PU. Hence, the developed novel patch exhibiting better physico‐chemical characteristics, enhanced blood compatibility parameters, and good cell viability rates hold to be a promising candidate for cardiac tissue repair. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3758–3767, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Galileo testet Einstein
Authors: Herrmann Sven , Lämmerzahl Claus
Published: March 2019

Im August 2014 wurden zwei Satelliten des europäischen Navigationssystems Galileo in Folge einer Fehlfunktion der Raketenoberstufe in einem exzentrischen Orbit ausgesetzt. Unserem Team vom Zentrum für angewandte Raumfahrttechnologie und Mikrogravitation (ZARM) sowie einer weiteren französischen Gruppe gelang es, diesen „Unfall“ für den bis dato genauesten Test der gravitativen Rotverschiebung zu nutzen, eine der zentralen Vorhersagen der Allgemeinen Relativitätstheorie.
Paul Celans Messung der Gegenwart
Authors: Wolff Maria
Published: March 2019

„Denn die Analysen und die Apparate beweisen nur, wie weit alles Empfinden‐ und Wahrnehmenkönnen, wie weit das einfache Lesen‐können schon geschrumpft ist. Womit, so frage ich, will man Gegenwart messen?“
Development of enzymes for robust aryloxyphenoxypropionate and synthetic auxin herbicide tolerance traits in maize and soybean crops
Authors: Larue Clayton T , Goley Michael , Shi Lei , Evdokimov Artem G , Sparks Oscar C , Ellis Christine , Wollacott Andrew M , Rydel Timothy J , Halls Coralie E , Van Scoyoc Brook , Fu Xiaoran , Nageotte Jeffrey R , Adio Adewale M , Zheng Meiying , Sturman Eric J , Garvey Graeme S , Varagona Marguerite J
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Effective management of weedy species in agricultural fields is essential for maintaining favorable growing conditions and crop yields. The introduction of genetically modified crops containing herbicide tolerance traits has been a successful additional tool available to farmers to better control weeds. However, weed resistance challenges present a need for additional herbicide tolerance trait options.

RESULTS

To help meet this challenge, a new trait that provides tolerance to an aryloxyphenoxypropionate (FOP) herbicide and members of the synthetic auxin herbicide family, such as 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D), was developed. Development of this herbicide tolerance trait employed an enzyme engineered with robust and specific enzymatic activity for these two herbicide families. This engineering effort utilized a microbial‐sourced dioxygenase scaffold to generate variants with improved enzymatic parameters. Additional optimization to enhance in‐plant stability of the enzyme enabled an efficacious trait that can withstand the higher temperature conditions often found in field environments.

CONCLUSION

Optimized herbicide tolerance enzyme variants with enhanced enzymatic and temperature stability parameters enabled robust herbicide tolerance for two herbicide families in transgenic maize and soybeans. This herbicide tolerance trait for FOP and synthetic auxin herbicides such as 2,4‐D could be useful in weed management systems, providing additional tools for farmers to control weeds. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Chemical defense against insects in Heterotheca subaxillaris and three Orobanchaceae species using exudates from trichomes
Authors: Morimoto Masanori
Published: March 2019

Background

One of the roles of plant trichomes is thought to be reducing feeding damage from herbivores. Among trichomes, glandular trichomes play a role in chemical defense systems in plants by means of stored biologically active phytochemicals. These phytochemicals act as pest repellents. They show antimicrobial and insecticidal activities, and they have also been isolated and identified from wild plants.

Results

The Asteraceae species Heterotheca subaxillaris has many glandular trichomes on the leaf surface, and these contain sesquiterpene carboxylates, which show insect antifeedant activity. Because these sesquiterpene carboxylates are major constituents of glandular trichomes, they may act as a chemical defense in H. subaxillaris. The Orobanchaceae species Parentucellia viscosa also has many glandular trichomes on the leaf surface and produces an insect antifeedant clerodane‐type diterpene, kolavenic acid, in these trichomes. Additionally, two other Orobanchaceae species, Bellardia trixago and Parentucellia latifolia, also have many glandular trichomes, but the constituents of these glandular trichomes did not show biological activities against test insects. However, the seco‐labdane diterpene alcohol trixagol and its hemi‐malonate were major constituents in B. trixago, and these terpenes may act as physical defenses against herbivores by interfering with feeding due to their viscosity.

Conclusion

The secondary metabolites from glandular trichomes of H. subaxillaris and P. viscosa showed insect antifeedant activity, and these secondary metabolites were presumed to act as chemical defenses for these plant species. On the other hand, non‐biologically active secondary metabolites produced by two other Orobanchaceae, B. trixago and P. latifolia, were presumed to act as physical defenses due to their viscosity. Defense systems such as these may be applicable to new crop breeding to enhance protection against insect pests. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Cognitive Reliability Error Analysis Method (CREAM) at the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER)
Authors: Vladykina Svetlana , Thurner Thomas Wolfgang
Published: March 2019

This paper studies how Cognitive Reliability Error Analysis Method (CREAM) can add value to the existing Quality Management System at the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor. We tested the CREAM framework on a sample of 71 nonconformance reports between 2016 and 2018 from the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor Document Management Database. All the nonconformances described in these reports relate to the incidents connected to the welding process of the vacuum vessel components. For failure categories like wrong identification, lack of attention, memory loss, or inadequate planning, CREAM provides additional information to redesign the work space. Moreover, CREAM identified quality control and management control as main underlying weaknesses that cause nonconformities. Future analysis should focus more on organizational error causes and resulting indirect links. Also, the use of a methodology like CREAM needs to be provided as special training by experts throughout all areas of activities.
A Facile Route to Synthesize Micron Size Nearly Spherical Mesoporous Silica Particles
Authors: Li Xuequan , Xing Yufeng , Xu Yingdong , Ji Yu , Shao Li‐Hua
Published: March 2019

For many applications as structured packing material, the micron size spherical silica particles with the bicontinuous mesoporous structures are required. Herein, we report a facile route to synthesize the micron size nearly spherical mesoporous silica (MSNSMS) particles. The chitosan is crucial in the synthesis strategy as an adjuvant agent to facilitate the formation of the micron size nearly spherical particles. The MSNSMS particles demonstrate narrow mesopore and particle size distributions with the average particle sizes at 3.6 μm (MSNSMS‐0.5) or 4.7 μm (MSNSMS‐1). The MSNSMS samples possess the large ordered domains of pure bicontinuous mesoporous structure with the interpenetrating cylindrical pores at about 8 nm in diameter. The MSNSMS particles are promising structured packing material candidate for catalyst support applications.
Quantitative and Specific Detection of Exosomal miRNAs for Accurate Diagnosis of Breast Cancer Using a Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Sensor Based on Plasmonic Head‐Flocked Gold Nanopillars
Authors: Lee Jong Uk , Kim Woo Hyun , Lee Hye Sun , Park Kyong Hwa , Sim Sang Jun
Published: March 2019

MicroRNAs in exosomes (exosomal miRNAs) have attracted increased attention as cancer biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis owing to their stability in body fluids. Since strong association exists between exosomal miRNA expression levels and breast cancer, the development of effective methods that can monitor exosomal miRNA expression both over broad concentration ranges and in ultralow amounts is critical. Here, a surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)‐based sensing platform is developed for the quantitative determination of exosomal miRNAs. Ultrasensitive exosomal miRNA detection with single‐nucleotide specificity is obtained from enhanced SERS signals from a uniform plasmonic head‐flocked gold nanopillar substrate, which generates multiple hotspots and enables hybridization between short oligonucleotides, i.e., miRNAs and locked nucleic acid probes. The proposed SERS sensor shows an extremely low detection limit without any amplification process, a wide dynamic range (1 am to 100 nm), multiplex sensing capability and sound miRNA recovery in serum. Furthermore, this sensor allows reliable observation of exosomal miRNA expression patterns from breast cancer cell lines and can discriminate breast cancer subtype based on the difference between these patterns. The results suggest that this sensor can be used for universal cancer diagnosis and further biomedical applications through the quantitative measurement of exosomal miRNAs in bodily fluids.
High‐Speed Colloidal Quantum Dot Photodiodes via Accelerating Charge Separation at Metal–Oxide Interface
Authors: Jeong ShinYoung , Kyhm Jihoon , Cha Soon‐Kyu , Hwang Do Kyung , Ju Byeong‐Kwon , Park Joon‐Suh , Kang Seong Jun , Han Il Ki
Published: March 2019

With ever‐growing technological demands in the imaging sensor industry for autonomous driving and augmented reality, developing sensors that can satisfy not only image resolution but also the response speed becomes more challenging. Herein, the focus is on developing a high‐speed photosensor capable of obtaining high‐resolution, high‐speed imaging with colloidal quantum dots (QDs) as the photosensitive material. In detail, high‐speed QD photodiodes are demonstrated with rising and falling times of τr = 28.8 ± 8.34 ns and τf = 40 ± 9.81 ns, respectively, realized by fast separation of electron–hole pairs due to the action of internal electric field at the QD interface, mainly by the interaction between metal oxide and the QD's ligands. Such energy transfer relations are analyzed and interpreted with time‐resolved photoluminescence measurements, providing physical understanding of the device and working principles.
Hollow Colloid Assembled Photonic Crystal Clusters as Suspension Barcodes for Multiplex Bioassays
Authors: Wang Yu , Shang Luoran , Bian Feika , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Wang Shuqi , Zhou Mengtao , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: March 2019

Barcode particles have a demonstrated value for multiplexed high‐throughput bioassays. Here, a novel photonic crystal (PhC) barcode is presented that consists of hollow colloidal nanospheres assembled through microfluidic droplet templates. Due to their gas‐filled core, the resultant barcode particles not only show increased refractive index contrast, but also remain in suspension by adjusting the overall density of the PhC to match that of a detection solution. In addition, magnetic nanoparticles can be integrated to give the barcodes a magnetically controllable motion ability. The encoding ability of the barcodes is demonstrated in microRNA detection with high specificity and sensitivity, and the excellent features of the barcodes make them potentially very useful for biomedical applications.
A review and vision on authentication and privacy preservation schemes in smart grid network
Authors: Agarkar Aarti , Agrawal Himanshu
Published: March 2019

Security and privacy preservation are important research challenges in Internet of Things (IoT) applications, wherein the information related to customers' habit is seamlessly collected for further analytics. One such IoT application; Smart grid (SG) network uses Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to automate the traditional electricity network between customers and utility companies. In the SG setting, on one side, there is a seamless exchange of energy consumption information, demand change and price change messages between customers and utility grid; on the other side, it offers various cyber security challenges. To avoid some‐one intercepting these messages and modify personal information, it is necessary to communicate these messages using an appropriate security and privacy preservation scheme. The objective of this article is conduct a comprehensive survey on existing security and privacy techniques being developed for the SG network. The survey presented in this article is motivated by the earlier research attempts on cyber security issues in SG, key management techniques, authentication schemes and privacy preservation techniques in SG network. The paper provides a wide review on various authentication techniques till recent developments on lightweight authentication and the privacy preservation techniques including encryption based privacy preservation using homomorphic encryption, elliptic curve cryptography, and lattice cryptography. Furthermore, the article presents our vision on privacy and utility trade‐off issues, privacy enhancement using blockchains, lightweight cryptography, and security challenges in fog node.
3D‐Drucken im Stahlbau mit dem automatisierten Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Feldmann Markus , Kühne Ronny , Citarelli Sandro , Reisgen Uwe , Sharma Rahul , Oster Lukas
Published: March 2019

Der 3D‐Druck metallischer Bauteile im Pulverbettverfahren findet bisher überwiegend in der Luft‐ und Raumfahrt oder im Maschinenbau Anwendung. Für die Fertigung von strukturellen Großbauteilen, wie sie im Stahlbau zum Einsatz kommen, sind die Laser‐Pulver‐basierten additiven Fertigungsverfahren derzeit zu teuer, um einen wirtschaftlichen Einsatz in Aussicht zu stellen. Hier kann das Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) eine Möglichkeit bieten, den 3D‐Druck von großen Stahlkomponenten zu verwirklichen. Das Verfahren, auch als „formgebendes Schweißen” bekannt, ist in Kombination mit flexibler Robotertechnik und energiearmen Schweißprozessen für das Bauwesen interessant; denn nicht nur durch extrem große Gestaltungsmöglichkeiten, sondern auch durch die Digitalisierung und Einbindung in die computergestützten Entwurfs‐, Planungs‐ und Herstellungsprozesse eröffnen sich neue Möglichkeiten für den Stahlbau. Zudem ist es insbesondere für die Fertigung von belastungsoptimierten Bauteilen sehr gut geeignet. Im Beitrag werden die derzeitigen und künftigen Anwendungsfelder, die Merkmale der Fertigung und die Tragfähigkeiten der erzielbaren Bauteiltypen beschrieben. Darüber hinaus wird über aktuelle Untersuchungen berichtet.
Mindestverdübelung von Verbundträgern im Brandfall
Authors: Pfenning Samuel , Brunkhorst Sven , Mensinger Martin , Zehfuß Jochen
Published: March 2019

Im Rahmen des Forschungsvorhabens „Mindestverdübelung von Verbundträgern bei Brand” [1] wurden auf der Grundlage von numerischen und experimentellen Untersuchungen ein Bemessungsansatz und Anwendungsgrenzen für die sichere Anwendung einer teilweisen Verdübelung von Verbundträgern im Brandfall geschaffen.

In diesem Beitrag werden die durchgeführten Untersuchungen sowie die wichtigsten Einflüsse von erhöhten Temperaturen auf Verbundträger und insbesondere die Verbundfuge vorgestellt. Der Schlupf in der Verbundfuge und dessen unterschiedliche Ursachen werden anhand eines Verbundeinfeldträgers im Brand untersucht.

Es zeigt sich, dass unter Einhaltung eines Mindestverdübelungsgrads zur Begrenzung der maximalen Verformungen der Verbundfuge die Verdübelung eines Verbundträgers keinen Einfluss auf dessen Tragfähigkeit im Brand hat. Durch die schnell ansteigende Temperatur des Stahlprofils nimmt die Streckgrenze schneller ab als die Tragfähigkeit der Verbundfuge, sodass sich mit steigender Temperatur der Verdübelungsgrad erhöht.

Im Weiteren wird ein Bemessungsansatz zur sicheren Anwendung der Teilverbundtheorie im Brandfall auf Grundlage des Verdübelungsgrads sowie auf Grundlage des Verhältnisses zwischen der Betonzugfestigkeit und der Schubtragfähigkeit der Verbundfuge vorgestellt.
Arylamine Based Photoactive Push‐Pull Molecular Systems: A Brief Overview of the Chemistry “Made in Angers”
Authors: Cabanetos Clément , Blanchard Philippe , Roncali Jean
Published: March 2019

This mini review aims at taking stock of some arylamine based push‐pull chromophores developed in the “Systèmes Conjugués Linéaires” (SCL) group at the University of Angers. Selected examples highlight more than a decade of design principles and strategies implemented to afford simple and accessible soluble molecular donors as active material for organic solar cells (OSCs).
Effects of graded levels of Azadirachta indica seed oil on growth performance and biochemical profiles of broiler chickens
Authors: Mafouo Sonhafouo Vanessa , Kana Jean Raphaël , Nguepi Dongmo Kissel
Published: March 2019

Because of speculated risk in generating antibiotic resistance in pathogenic microbiota, natural products from plant origin due to their diverse biological activities, have recently gained a great attention in animal nutrition. This study was designed to evaluate graded levels of neem seed oil on growth performance of broiler chickens. A total of 400‐day‐old chicks were randomly allocated to five experimental treatment groups. Experimental rations consisted of supplementing basal diet (R0−) with 1 g antibiotic (R0 + ), 15, 20 and 25 g neem seed oil/kg of feed. Data were recorded on feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and serum biochemical parameters. Result revealed that feeding broiler chicks with 25 g of neem oil/kg of feed resulted in a marked (P < 0.05) decreased in feed intake as compared to the other treatments in the starter phase. The average live body weight and the weight gain decreased with increasing level of neem oil in the ration. Supplementation of poultry feed with graded levels of neem oil has no marked (P > 0.05) effect on carcass yield and relative weight of organs except for liver weight which significantly (P < 0.05) increased with the highest dose of neem oil. Serum content in total proteins, total cholesterol, HDL‐cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and creatinine were not significantly (P > 0.05) affected by the graded levels of neem oil. LDL‐cholesterol significantly (P < 0.05) decreased with diets supplemented 20 g of neem oil/kg while triglycerides significantly increased with the highest doses of oil (20 and 25 g/kg) as compared to the negative and positive control rations. In conclusion, feeding broilers with Azadirachta indica seed oil has no beneficial effect on growth performance but may lead to the production of low‐cholesterol chicken meat as demand by health‐conscious consumers.
A new live trap for pocket gophers
Authors: Moore Nicholas B. , Duncan Sarah I. , Parsons Elizabeth I. , Pynne J. T. , Austin James D. , Mike Conner L. , Castleberry Steven B. , Gitzen Robert A. , McCleery Robert A.
Published: March 2019

Live‐trapping is important for studying wildlife. In 2016 at Ordway‐Swisher Biological Station in Melrose, Florida, USA, we tested the efficacy of a modified pitfall trap designed to safely and effectively capture southeastern pocket gophers (Geomys pinetis). When compared with the commonly used Hart trap, the new design captured 92% of all live captures of southeastern pocket gophers. The novel trap has a simple, passive design that eliminates dependence on trigger mechanisms, allows for safe overnight trapping, and reduces on‐site hours by researchers. The new trap adds to the few live traps available to study ecologically important and understudied fossorial species. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Trace determination of uranium preconcentrated using graphene oxide by total reflection X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry
Authors: Takahashi Hiroaki , Izumoto Yukie , Matsuyama Tsugufumi , Yoshii Hiroshi
Published: March 2019

A new method based on dispersive microsolid phase extraction using graphene oxide (GO) as a solid adsorbent and total reflection X‐ray fluorescence (TXRF) spectrometry is proposed for trace determination of uranium. In the developed methodology, a suspension of GO was injected into uranium‐spiked multielement solutions including rubidium; after filtration, the membrane filter with collected GO was placed in a small volume of internal standard acid solution and the eluent containing uranium was deposited onto a fluorine resin‐coated slide glass, which is a disposable sample stage. Using GO was effective for removal of rubidium from the measurement solution to avoid interference between Rb Kα peak and U Lα peak. The high enrichment factor of 150 enables obtaining uranium detection limits of 0.042, 0.087, and 0.12 μg L−1 for ionic strength of 0.01, 0.1, and 1 mol L−1, respectively. Such low detection limits were obtained by using a benchtop TXRF spectrometer with 5‐min measurement. The proposed method is suitable for trace uranium determination in water, including high salinity samples.
Syntheses, Structures, Photoluminescence, and Magnetism of a Series of Discrete Lanthanide Complexes based on 2,5‐Dichlorobenzoate and 1,10‐Phenanthroline
Authors: Zhang Ju‐Wen , Man Yi , Ren Yu‐Ning , Liu Wen‐Hua , Liu Bin‐Qiu , Dong Yan‐Ping
Published: March 2019

The syntheses and crystal structures of eight lanthanide complexes with formula [Ln(2,5‐DCB)x(phen)y] are reported, which are characterized via single‐crystal, powder X‐ray diffraction, elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, photoluminescence measurement, and DC/AC magnetic measurement. These eight complexes are isostructural, and possess a discrete dinuclear structure. The adjacent dinuclear molecules are linked by the hydrogen bonding interactions into a one‐dimensional (1D) supramolecular chain. The neighboring 1D chains are further extended into a two‐dimensional (2D) supramolecular layer by the π–π stacking interactions. The photoluminescent properties of complexes 1 (NdIII), 2 (SmIII), 3 (EuIII), 5 (TbIII), 6 (DyIII), and 8 (YbIII) were investigated. Magnetic investigations also reveal the presence of ferromagnetic interactions in complexes 4 (GdIII), 6 (DyIII), and 7 (ErIII). Additionally, complex 6 (DyIII) demonstrates field‐induced slow magnetic relaxation behavior.
Treatment Strategies and Survival Trends for Anorectal Melanoma: Is it Time for a Change?
Authors: Taylor James P. , Stem Miloslawa , Yu David , Chen Sophia Y. , Fang Sandy H. , Gearhart Susan L. , Safar Bashar , Efron Jonathan E.
Published: March 2019

Background

Immunotherapy advances for the treatment of cutaneous melanoma question its efficacy in treating anorectal mucosal melanoma (ARMM). We aimed to identify the prevalence, current management, and overall survival (OS) for ARMM.

Methods

Review of patients with ARMM from 2004 to 2015 National Cancer Database. Factors associated with immunotherapy were identified using multivariable logistic regression. The primary outcome was 2‐ and 5‐year OS. Subgroup analysis by treatment type was performed.

Results

A total of 1331 patients were identified with a significant increase in prevalence (2004: 6.99%, 2015: 10.53%). ARMM patients were older, white, on Medicare, and from the South. The most common treatment was surgery (48.77%), followed by surgery + radiation (11.75%), surgery + immunotherapy (8.68%), and surgery + chemotherapy (8.68%). 16.93% of patients received immunotherapy, with utilization increasing (7.24%: 2004, 21.27%: 2015, p < 0.001). Patients who received immunotherapy had a significantly better 2‐year OS (42.47% vs. 49.21%, p < 0.001), and other therapies did not reveal a significant difference. Adjusted analysis showed no difference in 2‐ and 5‐year OS based on therapy type.

Conclusion

The prevalence of ARMM has increased. The use of immunotherapy has increased substantially. Some survival benefit with the administration of immunotherapy may exist that has yet to be revealed. A more aggressive treatment paradigm is warranted.
Change in the Stability of First Premarital Cohabitation Among Women in the United States, 1983–2013
Authors: Lamidi Esther O. , Manning Wendy D. , Brown Susan L.
Published: March 2019

The rapid growth in cohabitation over the past quarter-century necessitates studies of changes in the stability and outcomes of cohabitation. We utilized data from the 1988 National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG) and the most recent NSFG data from 2011–2013 to examine the outcomes of two comparable cohorts of first premarital cohabiting women (1983–1988 and 2006–2013). Our results showed that cohabitations formed between 2006 and 2013 lasted longer—18 months, on average—than those formed in the mid-1980s, which lasted for an average of 12 months. We found that the lengthening of cohabitation over time cuts across sociodemographic characteristics—race/ethnicity, education, and motherhood status—and resulted mostly from the declining rate of transitioning to marriage. We found some support for the diverging destinies perspective in that disparities in the outcomes of cohabitation by education and by cohabiting birth have widened over time. Our analyses showed that changes in the outcomes of first premarital cohabiting unions over the past three decades were not due to compositional shifts in cohabitors. These results demonstrate the evolving dynamics of cohabitation over a 30-year window.