bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conditional Activation of NF-κB Inducing Kinase (NIK) in the Osteolineage Enhances Both Basal and Loading-Induced Bone Formation
Authors: Davis Jennifer L , Cox Linda , Shao Christine , Lyu Cheng , Liu Shaopeng , Aurora Rajeev , Veis Deborah J
Published: June 2019

Studies from global loss-of-function mutants suggest that alternative NF-κB downstream of NF-κB inducing kinase (NIK) is a cell-intrinsic negative regulator of osteogenesis. However, the interpretation of the osteoblast and/or osteocyte contribution to the bone phenotype is complicated by simultaneous osteoclast defects in these models. Therefore, we turned to a transgenic mouse model to investigate the direct role of NIK in the osteolineage. Osx-Cre;NT3 animals (NT3-Cre +), which bear a constitutively active NIK allele (NT3) driven by Osx-Cre, were compared with their Cre-negative, Control (Ctrl) littermates. NT3-Cre + mice had elevated serum P1NP and CTX levels. Despite this high turnover state, µCT showed that constitutive activation of NIK resulted in a net increase in basal bone mass in both cortical and cancellous compartments. Furthermore, NT3-Cre + mice exhibited a greater anabolic response following mechanical loading compared with controls. We next performed RNA-Seq on nonloaded and loaded tibias to elucidate possible mechanisms underlying the increased bone anabolism seen in NT3-Cre + mice. Hierarchical clustering revealed two main transcriptional programs: one loading-responsive and the other NT3 transgene-driven. Gene ontology (GO) analysis indicated a distinct upregulation of receptor, kinase, and growth factor activities including Wnts, as well as a calcium-response signature in NT3-Cre + limbs. The promoters of these GO-term associated genes, including many known to be bone-anabolic, were highly enriched for multiple κB recognition elements (κB-RE) relative to the background frequency in the genome. The loading response in NT3-Cre + mice substantially overlapped (>90%) with Ctrl. Surprisingly, control animals had 10-fold more DEGs in response to loading. However, most top DEGs shared between genotypes had a high incidence of multiple κB-RE in their promoters. Therefore, both transcriptional programs (loading-responsive and NT3 transgene-driven) are modulated by NF-κB. Our studies uncover a previously unrecognized role for NF-κB in the promotion of both basal and mechanically stimulated bone formation. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Bif‐1/Endophilin B1/SH3GLB1 regulates bone homeostasis
Authors: Touyama Kenya , Khan Masud , Aoki Kazuhiro , Matsuda Miho , Hiura Fumitaka , Takakura Nana , Matsubara Takuma , Harada Yui , Hirohashi Yuna , Tamura Yukihiko , Gao Jing , Mori Kayo , Kokabu Shoichiro , Yasuda Hisataka , Fujita Yuko , Watanabe Koji , Takahashi Yoshinori , Maki Kenshi , Jimi Eijiro
Published: June 2019

Skeletal tissue homeostasis is maintained via the balance of osteoclastic bone resorption and osteoblastic bone formation. Autophagy and apoptosis are essential for the maintenance of homeostasis and normal development in cells and tissues. We found that Bax‐interacting factor 1 (Bif‐1/Endophillin B1/SH3GLB1), involving in autophagy and apoptosis, was upregulated during osteoclastogenesis. Furthermore, mature osteoclasts expressed Bif‐1 in the cytosol, particularly the perinuclear regions and podosome, suggesting that Bif‐1 regulates osteoclastic bone resorption. Bif‐1‐deficient (Bif‐1
−/−) mice showed increased trabecular bone volume and trabecular number. Histological analyses indicated that the osteoclast numbers increased in Bif‐1
−/− mice. Consistent with the in vivo results, osteoclastogenesis induced by receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) ligand (RANKL) was accelerated in Bif‐1
−/− mice without affecting RANKL‐induced activation of RANK downstream signals, such as NF‐κB and mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs), CD115/RANK expression in osteoclast precursors, osteoclastic bone‐resorbing activity and the survival rate. Unexpectedly, both the bone formation rate and osteoblast surface substantially increased in Bif‐1
−/− mice. Treatment with β‐glycerophosphate (β‐GP) and ascorbic acid (A.A) enhanced osteoblastic differentiation and mineralization in Bif‐1
−/− mice. Finally, bone marrow cells from Bif‐1
−/− mice showed a significantly higher colony‐forming efficacy by the treatment with or without β‐GP and A.A than cells from wild‐type (WT) mice, suggesting that cells from Bif‐1
−/− mice had higher clonogenicity and self‐renewal activity than those from WT mice. In summary, Bif‐1 might regulate bone homeostasis by controlling the differentiation and function of both osteoclasts and osteoblasts (235 words).
Highly efficient yellow‐emitting iridium(III) complexes based on fluorinated 2‐(biphenyl‐4‐yl)‐2H‐indazole ligands: Syntheses, structures, properties, and density functional theory calculations
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Han , Zuo Zi‐Cen , Tao Zi‐Wen , Yuan Ding , Chen Yan , Chen Qin , Liu Kai , Chen Guang‐Ying , Mo Zheng‐Rong , Li Gao‐Nan , Niu Zhi‐Gang
Published: June 2019

Two new iridium (III) complexes (Ir1‐Ir2) bearing different fluorinated 2‐(biphenyl‐4‐yl)‐2H‐indazole‐based compounds as cyclometalated ligands and Xantphos as an ancillary ligand were synthesized and fully characterized. The ultraviolet (UV)–vis absorption, photoluminescence, and electrochemistry properties were studied. The single crystal structures of Ir1‐Ir2 were determined by X‐ray diffraction, showing each adopts the distorted octahedral coordination geometry. To gain insights into the lowest energy electron transitions and the lowest triplet excited states, density functional theory calculations were used to further investigate the origination. Two complexes emit yellow photoluminescence with quantum yields of 49.7–72.5% in solution at room temperature. Their Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage color coordinates are (0.42, 0.53) and (0.39, 0.47), respectively.
In silico genome‐wide identification of m6A‐associated SNPs as potential functional variants for periodontitis
Authors: Lin Weimin , Xu Hao , Wu Yunshu , Wang Jun , Yuan Quan
Published: June 2019

Genetic variation is considered to affect the N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) RNA transcript modification, which is the most prevalent posttranscriptional messenger RNA modification. This study aimed to identify m6A‐associated single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (m6A‐SNPs) that may affect m6A methylation from numerous periodontitis (PD) SNPs. We identified an abundance of m6A‐SNPs by analyzing raw data of published PD genome‐wide association studies and m6A‐SNPs list from the m6AVar database. Other evidence was found in public databases for expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) and differential gene expression analysis. Accordingly, 1938 m6A‐SNPs were identified, 104 of which appeared to be associated with PD (p < .05) while 65 showed eQTL signals. Lastly, the leading SNP rs2723183 (p = 3.93E−07) was predicted to regulate local gene IL‐37 expression in PD (p = 2.64E−05; in GSE10334) and change regulatory motif RXRA. In summary, dozens of PD‐associated m6A‐SNPs were identified and their possible functions were demonstrated in this study.
The influence of plane of section on the identification of bone tissue types in amniotes with implications for paleophysiological inferences
Authors: Faure‐Brac Mathieu G. , Pelissier François , Cubo Jorge
Published: June 2019

The proportion of woven bone (WB) to parallel‐fibered bone has been extensively used to infer bone growth rates and resting metabolic rates of extinct organisms. The aim of this study is to test in a variety of amniotes how reliably WB content can be measured using transverse sections. For this, we analyzed femoral transverse mid‐diaphyseal thin sections of 14 extant and extinct taxa and the corresponding longitudinal sections for comparative purposes. We used the following characters to identify WB in transverse sections because they are known to be distinct from those observed in parallel‐fibered bone: an isotropic bone matrix at tissue scale; an anisotropic microlamellar arrangement in former osteoblast secretory territories at cellular scale; no alignment between osteocytes; and canaliculi running radially from large irregular osteocyte lacunae. Our null hypothesis predicts no differences between the amount of WB quantified in the transverse and longitudinal sections of a given long bone. Qualitatively, when a stripe or a patch of WB was identified in a transverse section, the corresponding stripe or patch of WB was always found at the same location in the corresponding longitudinal section. Quantitatively, a Wilcoxon signed‐rank nonparametric paired test did not detect a significant difference in the WB content of the two section planes. Thus, the null hypothesis is not rejected. Considering that paleohistology is a destructive method, we recommend a workflow to efficiently establishing the proportion of WB: quantifying it in transverse sections; preparing and analyzing longitudinal sections only in cases where an ambiguity remains; reanalyzing the corresponding transverse sections.
Study of serum VEGF levels in patients with severe dengue infection admitted in a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata
Authors: Patra Goutam , Saha Bibhuti , Mukhopadhyay Sumi
Published: June 2019

Dengue is the most common arboviral infection globally, but its pathogenesis is poorly explored. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has an essential role in the host defense against viral infection. However, not much information is available regarding its status in dengue patients from the eastern zone of India. In the present investigation, the level of VEGF was investigated for its possible utility as a dengue severity marker. Accordingly, confirmed dengue cases were enrolled during 2016‐2018. Serum from all the study subjects was subjected to the standard enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay test for VEGF analysis. In addition, we assessed the association of VEGF to dengue severity. The study revealed that VEGF titers (P < .0001) were significantly increased in severe dengue (SD) patients in contrast to those with a milder form of dengue. An association was obtained between VEGF and increased SGOT (r = 0.517 with P < .0001) while VEGF had a negative correlation with platelets in SD patients (r = −0.331 with P = .001). Enhanced VEGF titers along with decreased platelets had a good association with SD. The investigation revealed that high VEGF titers are novel indicators of dengue severity. However, our results must be verified in a study evaluating a larger number of dengue patients.
Accurate discrimination of Gastrodia elata from different geographical origins using high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint combined with boosting partial least‐squares discriminant analysis
Authors: Sun Shanshan , Li Yancheng , Zhu Lijun , Ma Haiyan , Li Lupan , Liu Yufeng
Published: June 2019

Gastrodia elata from different geographical origins varies in quality and pharmacological activity. This study focused on the classification and identification of Gastrodia elata from six producing areas using high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint combined with boosting partial least‐squares discriminant analysis. Before recognition analysis, a principal component analysis was applied to ascertain the discrimination possibility with high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprints. And then, boosting partial least‐squares discriminant analysis and conventional partial least‐squares discriminant analysis were applied in this study. Experimental results indicated that the adaptive iteratively reweighted penalized least‐squares algorithm could eliminate the baseline drift of high‐performance liquid chromatography chromatograms effectively. And compared with partial least‐squares discriminant analysis, the total recognition rates using high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint combined with boosting partial least‐squares discriminant analysis for the calibration sets and prediction sets were improved from 94 to 100% and 86 to 97%, respectively. In conclusion, high‐performance liquid chromatography combined with boosting partial least‐squares discriminant analysis, which has such advantages as effective, specific, accurate, non‐polluting, has an edge for discrimination of traditional Chinese medicine from different geographical origins. And the proposed methodology is a useful tool to classify and identify Gastrodia elata from different geographical origins.
Exercise Interventions in Huntington's Disease: An Individual Patient Data Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Playle Rebecca , Dimitropoulou Polyxeni , Kelson Mark , Quinn Lori , Busse Monica
Published: June 2019

Background

Physical activity may be beneficial in Huntington's disease (HD); however, studies to date have been underpowered to detect change. We combined data from five randomized controlled feasibility trials using individual patient data meta‐analyses.

Methods/Design

All trial interventions comprised a combination of supervised and self‐directed physical activity, with varied emphasis on aerobic, strength, endurance, flexibility, and task training. Duration ranged from 8 to 16 weeks. The primary outcome was the modified Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Motor Score. Secondary outcomes included the Symbol Digit Modality Test, Berg Balance Scale, 30‐second Chair stand, Timed Up and Go, Gait Speed, Physical Performance Test, Six‐Minute Walk, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, EuroQol Health Utility Index, and Short‐Form 36 Health Related Quality of Life Scale. The primary analysis utilized a two‐stage approach. A one‐stage approach was explored as a sensitivity analysis using a cross‐classified (by study site) linear mixed‐effects model.

Results

One hundred twenty‐one participants provided complete data. Risk of bias was moderate; however, primary outcomes were blind assessed. Primary pooled effect estimates adjusted for baseline modified motor score (95% confidence interval) were 0.2 (–2.1 to 2.6) favoring control. There was considerable heterogeneity between the studies.

Conclusions

There was no evidence of an exercise effect on the modified motor score in these relatively short‐duration interventions. Longer‐duration trials incorporating supervised components meeting frequency, intensity, time, and type principles are required. Lack of common outcomes limited the analysis and highlight the importance of a core outcome set for evaluating exercise in HD.
In vivo demonstration of microscopic anisotropy in the human kidney using multidimensional diffusion MRI
Authors: Nery Fabio , Szczepankiewicz Filip , Kerkelä Leevi , Hall Matt G. , Kaden Enrico , Gordon Isky , Thomas David L. , Clark Chris A.
Published: June 2019

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility of multidimensional diffusion MRI to probe and quantify microscopic fractional anisotropy (µFA) in human kidneys in vivo.

Methods

Linear tensor encoded (LTE) and spherical tensor encoded (STE) renal diffusion MRI scans were performed in 10 healthy volunteers. Respiratory triggering and image registration were used to minimize motion artefacts during the acquisition. Kidney cortex–medulla were semi‐automatically segmented based on fractional anisotropy (FA) values. A model‐free analysis of LTE and STE signal dependence on b‐value in the renal cortex and medulla was performed. Subsequently, µFA was estimated using a single‐shell approach. Finally, a comparison of conventional FA and µFA is shown.

Results

The hallmark effect of µFA (divergence of LTE and STE signal with increasing b‐value) was observed in all subjects. A statistically significant difference between LTE and STE signal was found in the cortex and medulla, starting from b = 750 s/mm2 and b = 500 s/mm2, respectively. This difference was maximal at the highest b‐value sampled (b = 1000 s/mm2) which suggests that relatively high b‐values are required for µFA mapping in the kidney compared to conventional FA. Cortical and medullary µFA were, respectively, 0.53 ± 0.09 and 0.65 ± 0.05, both respectively higher than conventional FA (0.19 ± 0.02 and 0.40 ± 0.02).

Conclusion

The feasibility of combining LTE and STE diffusion MRI to probe and quantify µFA in human kidneys is demonstrated for the first time. By doing so, we show that novel microstructure information—not accessible by conventional diffusion encoding—can be probed by multidimensional diffusion MRI. We also identify relevant technical limitations that warrant further development of the technique for body MRI.
Fishing together, fishing on its own: Fish exploitation patterns at the Neolithic Alepotrypa cave (Diros, Greece) and Aegean prehistoric fishing traditions
Authors: Theodoropoulou Tatiana
Published: June 2019

Various marine animal assemblages from prehistoric contexts across the Mediterranean suggest a focus on the exploitation of marine resources by coastal populations as early as the Mesolithic. Along with the harvesting of nearshore coastal resources (fish and invertebrates), a more organised fishing activity that targeted pelagic species, traditionally considered migratory, is evident in several Mesolithic assemblages. With the advent of the Neolithic, marine‐related subsistence activities seem to be gradually restricted to the exploitation of coastal year‐round resources. The cave of Alepotrypa in the Peloponnese, Greece, provides an opportunity to ascertain the exploitation practices of a coastal Late/Final Neolithic community in which a combination of fishing strategies and a diversified connection to the sea were apparent. The abundant shell assemblage demonstrates the importance of molluscs for consumption, as well as the various uses of their shell. This paper focuses on the fish remains from the cave. Fish assemblages from this period are rather sparse in the Aegean. The study of the fish assemblage highlights the exploitation of pelagic fish species as well as the harvesting of a wide range of coastal fish species. A shift from pelagic to coastal resources and an intensification of fishing are also observed from the Late to Final Neolithic. These trends are discussed in the perspective of social organisation and technological adaptations, with an emphasis on the engagement of Neolithic fishermen in communal and individual fishing strategies and the seasonally important role of these activities. The choice of specific exploitation strategies and the diachronic trends observed suggest that earlier Mediterranean fishing traditions persisted until the end of the Neolithic.
Optimal parameter selection problem with application to the synchronization of delivery cycles in a supply chain with Wiener process
Authors: Wong Kar Hung , Chan Chi Kin , Lee Y. C. E.
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we use optimal parameter selection technique to develop two models involving single‐vendor–multiple‐buyer supply chain, which are called the dynamic independent optimization (DIO) model and the dynamic synchronized cycles (DSC) model, respectively. These models are, respectively, similar to the traditional static independent policy model and the traditional static synchronized cycle model, except that the deterministic demands of the buyers in the above two static models are now being replaced by the stochastic demands satisfying a Wiener process, which have more real‐life applications. Similar to the above static synchronized cycles model, the synchronization of the supply chain in our DSC model is also achieved by scheduling the delivery days of the buyers and coordinating them with the vendor's production cycle. Finding the optimal expected system costs of the DIO model and the DSC model involves solving optimal parameter selection problems governed by ordinary differential equations, whose final times are continuous decision variables and discrete decision variables, respectively. Computational methods have been developed for solving these problems. Numerical results show that the coordinated policy is better than the independent optimization policy, in terms of minimizing the expected system cost of the entire supply chain. Sensitivity analysis is performed to test the effect of changing the cost coefficients and the
value on the performances of these models, where
is the ratio of the total mean demand rate of all the buyers over the vendor's production rate.
Phytochemical and anti‐inflammatory properties of Scurrula ferruginea (Jack) Danser parasitising on three different host plants elucidated by NMR‐based metabolomics
Authors: Hong Xia , Mat Isa Nurulfiza , Fakurazi Sharida , Safinar Ismail Intan
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Scurrula ferruginea (Jack) Danser is a hemi‐parasitic shrub that is widely used as a traditional herbal medicine.

Objectives

To elucidate the anti‐inflammatory activity of S. ferruginea parasitising on three different hosts of Vitex negundo L., Micromelum minutum (G. Forst.) Wight & Arn. and Tecoma stans (L.) Juss ex HBK., as well as, to determine the metabolite differences related to their anti‐inflammatory properties.

Materials and Methods

Two plant parts of S. ferruginea, stems and leaves, were extracted in water. The freeze‐dried stem of S. ferruginea grown on T. stans was liquid–liquid partitioned into several solvents. Their potential anti‐inflammatory activity was assessed via inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ)‐induced RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. The metabolite variation was examined using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) combined with multivariate data analysis (MVDA).

Results

Scurrula ferruginea stems parasitising on T. stans and V. negundo which were freeze dried exhibited higher anti‐inflammatory activity with IC50 values of 114.47 ± 2.96 and 118.87 ± 2.31 μg/mL, respectively. The mid‐polar ethyl acetate fraction of S. ferruginea hosted on T. stans displayed the highest NO inhibition with 84.80 ± 0.45% at 200 μg/mL. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated notable and clear discriminations among the different plant parts and host plants based on the identified metabolites. Furthermore, partial least squares (PLS) regression model suggested the anti‐inflammatory bioactivity might be associated with the presence of choline, isoleucine, catechin, leucine and chlorogenic acid.

Conclusion

This study suggests S. ferruginea could serve as a potential anti‐inflammatory agent, highlighting the importance of T. stans as the host plant.
Toward one‐pot olefin/thiophene block copolymers using an in situ ligand exchange
Authors: Leone Amanda K. , Dewyer Amanda L. , Kubo Tomohiro , Zimmerman Paul M. , McNeil Anne J.
Published: June 2019

Block copolymers containing both conducting and insulating segments are of interest due to their enhanced electrical properties arising from their increased crystallization. Yet few methods exist for generating these copolymers, because the reaction conditions for synthesizing each block are often incompatible. Herein, efforts toward identifying a one‐pot, living polymerization method for synthesizing block copolymers of 1‐pentene and 3‐hexylthiophene is described. An in situ ligand exchange enables the optimal catalyst to be utilized for synthesizing each block. Even under these conditions, however, only homopolymers are observed. Computational studies modeling the ligand exchange reveal that the added stabilizing ligands likely inhibit propagation of the second block. These results suggest an ancillary ligand‐based “goldilocks” effect wherein catalysts that are stable yet still reactive are required. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1601–1605
Cause analysis of the faults in HARC etching processes by using the PI‐VM model for OLED display manufacturing
Authors: Park Seolhye , Kyung Yunyoung , Lee Juyoung , Jang Yongsuk , Cha Taewon , Noh Yeongil , Choi Younghoon , Kim Byungsoo , Cho Taeyoung , Seo Rabul , Yang Jae‐Ho , Jang Yunchang , Ryu Sangwon , Kim Gon‐Ho
Published: June 2019

High‐aspect ratio contact (HARC) etching is a bottleneck step of the high‐definition organic light emitting diode (OLED) display manufacturing processes. HARC process is frequently failed during the mass production, because this requires the high‐energy ion flux and the sidewall passivation, simultaneously. To analyze the cause of HARC process failures, plasma information (PI)‐based virtual metrology (VM) algorithm was developed by using the equipment engineering system and the optical emission spectroscopy data recorded from the fab. Developed PI‐VM could predict the process faults with >90% of the accuracy, and the cause analysis function was also validated. We could suggest a right solution to the failure, and more efficient management of the OLED display manufacturing was possible.
Review of methods for the mitigation of plasma‐induced damage to low‐dielectric‐constant interlayer dielectrics used for semiconductor logic device interconnects
Authors: Miyajima Hideshi , Ishikawa Kenji , Sekine Makoto , Hori Masaru
Published: June 2019

The developments in advanced interconnect technology for semiconductor logic devices for the mitigation of plasma‐induced damage to low‐dielectric‐constant (low‐k) materials, including fluorosilicate glass and carbon‐doped silicon oxide is reviewed. The chemical bond structures of low‐k materials are summarized to help mitigate the k value degradation caused by moisture uptake after plasma processes. Damage suppression is accomplished by integrating deposition chemistries, pattern etch transfer, and post‐etch cleaning technologies. On the basis of analyses results, a discussion on the bond engineering of low‐k materials and their degradation during plasma processing is given. Challenges facing low‐k interconnect technology are also addressed.
Single‐Electron Effects for Probing Local Electrical Polarization Changes and Charge Hopping
Authors: Huth Michael , Gruszka Peter , Grossmüller Christian , Hanefeld Marc , Keller Lukas
Published: June 2019

Employing single‐electron effects very sensitive charge or local electrostatic potential monitoring can be accomplished. This is typically realized by single‐electron transistors operating at low temperatures. Single‐electron effects can also be used to probe local changes of the dielectric environment next to a single‐electron device. Conversely, by controlling the dielectric environment of a nanostructure subject to single‐electron effects, the electronic properties of the nanostructure can be manipulated. Here, the use of nano‐island arrays is suggested for locally probing charge, potential or dielectric changes. The authors consider small arrays for which the capacitive coupling to larger electrodes nearby causes partial screening on some of the nano‐islands. Monte Carlo simulations based on tunneling rates between next‐neighbor nano‐islands are used. This analysis is exemplarily applied to different scenarios. It is shown how surface oxidation of nano‐islands strongly influences Coulomb blockade effects. It is demonstrated how nano‐island arrays may be used to probe the dynamics of charged domain walls in the charge transfer salt tetrathiafulvalene‐chloranil. It is discussed how nano‐island arrays can be used to sense dielectric changes, e.g., in nano‐porous metal‐organic frameworks under analyte exposure. It is also discussed how the presented Monte Carlo approach can be extended from the elastic tunneling to the activated transport regime.
The role of science identity in science center visits and effects
Authors: Shein Paichi P. , Falk John H. , Li Yuh‐Yuh
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we use dimensions of the construct “science identity” as an analytic lens to tap into the motivation and learning of science center visits. This exploratory empirical study was based on a large international dataset drawn from 10 science centers in countries across Europe, Asia, and North America, to investigate the self‐selecting, moderating, and self‐reinforcing roles that scientific identity plays in science center visits and effects. We used path analysis to investigate the relationships among three aspects: (a) science identity, (b) science center visit, and (c) effects in knowledge, interest, and participation, while controlling the social categories of age, gender, educational level, and income. The findings showed that visiting a science center correlated with positive effects in adults’ knowledge, participation and interest in science and technology. Dimensions of science identity appeared to play a self‐reinforcing role in visitors’ self‐reports of effects at all 10 science centers and played a moderating role in visit‐effect relationships for 2 out of the 10 science centers. There was no evidence that dimensions of science identity played a significant self‐selecting role in determining who does or does not visit a science center.
Biphenyl‐Amine‐Based D‐π‐A’‐π‐A Sensitizers for DSSCs: Comparative Photo‐Conversion Efficiency in Iodide/triiodide and Cobalt‐Based Redox Electrolyte and DFT Study
Authors: Raikwar Manish M. , Sonigara Keval K. , Patil Dinesh S. , Machhi Hiren , Soni Saurabh S. , Sekar Nagaiyan
Published: June 2019

We have designed and synthesized two dye molecules viz. MMR1 ((E)‐2‐cyano‐3‐(5‐((E)‐1‐cyano‐2‐(4′‐(dimethylamino)‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐yl)vinyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)acrylic acid) and MMR2 (2‐((Z)‐5‐((5‐((E)‐1‐cyano‐2‐(4′‐(dimethylamino)‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐yl)vinyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)methylene)‐4‐oxo‐2‐thioxothiazolidin‐3‐yl)acetic acid) with D‐π‐A’‐π‐A frameworks. The synthesized interfacial modifiers have dimethyl aniline as the donor group whereas cyanoacetic acid and rhodanine‐3‐acetic acid as the major acceptor groups in MMR1 and MMR2 respectively. The photophysical study in solution medium shows red shifted absorption maxima (λmax) for MMR2 vs MMR1. However, the molar extinction coefficient (ϵmax) for MMR2 is found to be lower than MMR1. The photovoltaic characterization of these molecules was carried out using iodide/triiodide and cobalt (II/III) based redox electrolytes for comparision. The molecules showed improved efficiency with the cobalt based electrolytes where MMR1 showed the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 3.25% (Jsc=7.28 mA/cm2, Voc=0.713 V, FF=0.63). Further to have a deep insight into these synthesized molecules DFT studies were performed. The polarizability and hyperpolarizability values for the interfacial modifiers are calculated using DFT computation and are found to be correlated to the PCE.
Enhanced Stability of Abundant Amorphous Iron (III) oxide Grafted AlSBA‐15 as Highly Efficient Heterogeneous Fenton Catalyst for the Destruction of Phenol
Authors: Thirumoorthy Kulandaivel , Satishkumar Govindaswamy
Published: June 2019

24 wt% of iron has been successfully grafted as amorphous iron oxide over mesoporous channels of SBA‐15 and 10 wt% alumina coated SBA‐15 (AlSBA‐15) using selective extraction deposition (SED) technique. The synthesized materials have been characterized using XRD, N2 adsorption studies, SEM‐EDS, 27Al MAS NMR, XPS, H2‐TPR, and HR‐TEM techniques. 27Al MAS NMR and XPS characterization results revealed that iron has been preferentially grafted over alumina. The increased binding energy of the Fe2p electron (XPS) in the 24wt %Fe/AlSBA‐15 confirms the existence of strong donor‐acceptor interaction between grafted iron oxide and an alumina support. In TPR studies, unlike silica support, AlSBA‐15 tuned the reduction property of various grafted oxidic iron species, which is evidenced by shifting of iron reduction peak to a high temperature of 436 °C. In the destruction of 200 ppm of phenol 24wt %Fe/AlSBA‐15 catalyst demonstrated 100% phenol conversion and 86% TOC removal with 0.4 ppm (0.1%) iron leaching within 30 minutes of reaction. 24wt %Fe/SBA‐15 catalyst also exhibited similar performance however, leaching of iron was found to be up to 20 ppm (8%). The 24wt %Fe/AlSBA‐15 catalyst was recycled successfully five times without loss in the catalytic activity and stability.
Typification of the Linnaean name Myosotis nana (Boraginaceae)
Authors: Galasso Gabriele , Selvi Federico
Published: June 2019

In this note we designate a lectotype and a supporting epitype for the Linnaean name Myosotis nana L., whose validity has been questioned by some authors. The name is shown to be validly published by Linnaeus and, as such, the correct basionym for Eritrichium nanum (L.) Schrad. ex Gaudin, a well‐known European alpine plant.
Health consequences of climate change in Bangladesh: An overview of the evidence, knowledge gaps and challenges
Authors: Rahman Mohammed M. , Ahmad Sate , Mahmud Ayesha S. , Hassan‐uz‐Zaman Md. , Nahian Mahin A. , Ahmed Ali , Nahar Quamrun , Streatfield Peter K.
Published: June 2019

Climate change affects almost all aspects of human life, including health. This is particularly true in densely populated and low lying deltas such as Bangladesh. However, the climate‐health nexus is a relatively poorly explored domain of research, which is a cause for concern given the country's intrinsic vulnerability to climatic impacts. The impact of climate change on human health and well‐being can be manifested through different pathways and can be categorized as being direct or indirect, mediated through complex biophysical and social dynamics. The direct effects of climate change that have been observed in Bangladesh include morbidity and mortality due to heat stress, cyclones, floods, droughts and other weather extremes at different spatio‐temporal scales. The indirect effects adopt more complex routes which includes, threatening food and water security due to salinity intrusion, and spread of infectious diseases due to changes in vector and pathogen ecology. Social dynamics in Bangladesh, such as those related to gender roles, poverty and power relations, also influence how the effects of climate change are experienced by different segments of the society. The Government of Bangladesh has a number of measures already in place, efforts that have been complemented by local interventions. Evidence to take robust health policy decisions related to climate change is limited and scattered, while there is a lack of multidisciplinary research efforts. Considering these limitations, generating and summarizing scientific evidence is vital for informing a resilient health system against future public health concerns in climate vulnerable countries such as Bangladesh and in other low‐income regions.

This article is categorized under:

Assessing Impacts of Climate Change > Evaluating Future Impacts of Climate Change
Urban stormwater characterization, control, and treatment
Authors: Rodak Carolyn M. , Moore Trisha L. , David Ray , Jayakaran Anand D. , Vogel Jason R.
Published: June 2019

This review summarizes over 250 studies published in 2018 related to the characterization, control, and management of urban stormwater runoff. The review covers three broad themes: (a) quantity and quality characterization of stormwater, (b) control and treatment of stormwater runoff, and (c) implementation and assessment of watershed‐scale green stormwater infrastructure (GSI). Each section provides an overview of the 2018 literature, common themes, and future work. Several themes emerged from the 2018 literature including exploration of contaminants of emerging concern within stormwater systems, characterization and incorporation of vegetation‐driven dynamics in stormwater control measures, and the need for interdisciplinary perspectives on the implementation and assessment of GSI.

Practitioner points

Over 250 studies were published in 2018 related to the characterization, control, and treatment of stormwater.

Studies cover general stormwater characteristics, control and treatment systems, and watershed‐scale assessments.

Trends in 2018 include treatment trains, vegetation dynamics, and interdisciplinary perspectives.
Cardy-like asymptotics of the 4d $$ \mathcal{N}=4 $$ index and AdS5 blackholes
Authors: Ardehali Arash Arabi
Published: June 2019

Abstract

Choi, Kim, Kim, and Nahmgoong have recently pioneered analyzing a Cardy-like limit of the superconformal index of the 4d

$$ \mathcal{N}=4 $$

N
=
4

theory with complexified fugacities which encodes the entropy of the dual supersymmetric AdS5 blackholes. Here we study the Cardy-like asymptotics of the index within the rigorous framework of elliptic hypergeometric integrals, thereby filling a gap in their derivation of the blackhole entropy function, finding a new blackhole saddle-point, and demonstrating novel bifurcation phenomena in the asymptotics of the index as a function of fugacity phases. We also comment on the relevance of the supersymmetric Casimir energy to the blackhole entropy function in the present context.
The sets of Dirichlet non-improvable numbers versus well-approximable numbers
Authors: BAKHTAWAR AYREENA , BOS PHILIP , HUSSAIN MUMTAZ
Published: June 2019

Let $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9}:[1,\infty )\rightarrow \mathbb{R}_{+}$ be a non-decreasing function, $a_{n}(x)$ the $n$th partial quotient of $x$ and $q_{n}(x)$ the denominator of the $n$th convergent. The set of $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9}$-Dirichlet non-improvable numbers, $$\begin{eqnarray}G(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9}):=\{x\in [0,1):a_{n}(x)a_{n+1}(x)>\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9}(q_{n}(x))\text{ for infinitely many }n\in \mathbb{N}\},\end{eqnarray}$$ is related with the classical set of $1/q^{2}\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9}(q)$-approximable numbers ${\mathcal{K}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9})$ in the sense that ${\mathcal{K}}(3\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9})\subset G(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9})$. Both of these sets enjoy the same $s$-dimensional Hausdorff measure criterion for $s\in (0,1)$. We prove that the set $G(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9})\setminus {\mathcal{K}}(3\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9})$ is uncountable by proving that its Hausdorff dimension is the same as that for the sets ${\mathcal{K}}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9})$ and $G(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6F9})$. This gives an affirmative answer to a question raised by Hussain et al [Hausdorff measure of sets of Dirichlet non-improvable numbers. Mathematika 64(2) (2018), 502–518].
Infection prevention and control practices related to carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) in acute-care hospitals in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Jamal Alainna J. , Garcia-Jeldes Felipe , Baqi Mahin , Borgia Sergio , Johnstone Jennie , Katz Kevin , Kohler Philipp , Muller Matthew P. , McGeer Allison J. ,   for the CPE Investigators of the Toronto Invasive Bacterial Diseases Network
Published: June 2019

Objective:

To determine infection prevention and control (IPAC) practices for carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE), an emerging threat, at acute-care hospitals in Ontario, Canada.

Design:

A descriptive cross-sectional survey.

Methods:

We surveyed IPAC directors and managers at all acute-care hospitals in Ontario, Canada, to gather information on IPAC practices related to CPE, including admission screening, other patient screening, environmental testing, use of precautions to prevent transmission, and outbreak management.

Results:

Of 116 acute-care hospitals, 105 (91%) responded. Admission screening included patients previously colonized or infected with CPE (n = 64, 61%), patients recently hospitalized outside of Canada (Indian subcontinent, n = 62, 59%; other countries, n = 56, 53%), and patients recently hospitalized in Canada (n = 22, 21%). Fifty-one hospitals (49%) screened patients for colonization during an outbreak. Almost all hospitals (n = 101, 96%) used precautions to prevent transmission from patients with CPE colonization or infection; most hospitals (n = 54, 53%) continued precautions indefinitely. Few hospitals (n = 19, 18%) performed environmental cultures. Eight hospitals (8%) reported at least 1 outbreak, and 6 hospitals (6%) reported transmission from sink or shower drains to patients.

Conclusions:

Variability in practices may result from lack of evidence and challenges in updating guidelines as evidence emerges. A coordinated approach to slow the emergence of CPE should be considered in our population.
Growth performance and bone characteristics of broiler chickens fed corn-soy diet supplemented with different levels of vitamin premix and sources of mineral premix
Authors: Ao T. , Paul M.A. , Pescatore A.J. , Macalintal L.M. , Ford M.J. , Dawson K.A.
Published: June 2019

Inorganic trace mineral salts in the premix have a detrimental effect on the stability of vitamins due to redox reactions. A study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of different levels of vitamin premix with different mineral premixes on the performance and bone characteristics of broilers. A 2 x 2 factorial dietary treatment was used with two levels of vitamins and two types of minerals in the premix. A total of 1056, one-day old chicks were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments with 12 replicate pens of 22 chicks for 28 d. An interactive effect between vitamin levels and mineral sources on weight gain and feed intake of chickens was detected. Chickens fed the diet containing 100% vitamin premix with either source of mineral premix had higher (P < 0.01) weight gain and feed intake than those fed the diet containing 30% vitamin premix with either source of mineral premix. However, the chickens fed the diet containing the 30% vitamin premix with the organic minerals had higher (P < 0.01) weight gain and feed intake than those fed the diet containing 30% vitamin premix with inorganic minerals. Chickens fed the diet containing organic mineral premix had lower (P < 0.05) mortality and feed to gain ratio and higher (P < 0.01) bone breaking strength and ash content of tibia than those fed the inorganic mineral premix treatment. Chickens fed the diet containing 100% vitamin premix had higher (P < 0.01) breaking strength of femur and tibia ash than those fed the diet containing 30% vitamin premix. The results from this trial indicated that total replacement of inorganic trace minerals with organic minerals can increase the storage stability of vitamins in feed premixes containing both vitamins and trace minerals, which is reflected in better growth performance in poultry.
Is age discrimination a less serious form of discrimination?
Authors: Goosey Stuart
Published: June 2019

The UK courts and the CJEU have often treated age discrimination as a less serious form of discrimination. This is reflected in the courts’ reluctance to offer rigorous scrutiny when evaluating whether age-differential treatment is objectively justified under anti-discrimination law. Further, a number of judges have asserted that age discrimination must be understood as different to other forms of discrimination, such as race or sex discrimination. This paper argues that age discrimination is not fundamentally different or prima facie less serious than other forms of discrimination. Age discrimination can undermine the same principles that paradigm forms of discrimination also undermine, including: creating inequality of opportunity by disadvantaging people because of a trait that is outside a person's control; undermining social equality by creating a hierarchy of social status between different groups; violating autonomy by diminishing people's capacity to have control over their lives; and communicating disrespect by conveying that particular groups have a diminished moral or social worth. It follows, contrary to the approach of much of the case law, that the courts should offer rigorous scrutiny of age-differential treatment to identify these harms and only permit age distinctions that are strictly tailored to enhance equality or other important values.
Tracing Carbon Isotope Variations in Lake Sediments Caused by Environmental Factors During the Past Century: A Case Study of Lake Tapeliai, Lithuania
Authors: Barisevičiūtė Rūta , Maceika Evaldas , Ežerinskis Žilvinas , Mažeika Jonas , Butkus Laurynas , Šapolaitė Justina , Garbaras Andrius , Paškauskas Ričardas , Jefanova Olga , Karosienė Jūratė , Kasperovičienė Jūratė , Remeikis Vidmantas
Published: June 2019

In this study, we examined how land use and urbanization changes in adjacent areas affected biological productivity and carbon cycling in a lake ecosystem over 100 years and how these changes are reflected in carbon isotope variations. We performed radiocarbon (14C) activity and stable carbon isotope ratio analysis in two organic fractions: humin and humic acids of lake sediment. Additionally, we performed pigment and diatom analysis and determined the carbonate and organic matter (OM) content in sediments. Over the last century, the estimated 14C reservoir age in both sediment organic fractions varied from 1136 ± 112 yr to 5733 ± 122 yr. The increase in the reservoir age by 1175 ± 111 yr was related with higher inputs of pre-aged organic carbon and 14C depleted hard water due to the opening of the channel connecting two lakes. Nuclear weapons tests caused an increase in the reservoir age of up to 5421 ± 135 yr and 5733 ± 122 yr in humin and humic acids, respectively. 13C values in the humic acid fraction showed a tendency to decrease, depending on the content of autochthonous versus allochthonous OM in sediments, while changes in the sources of OM had a minor impact on the stable carbon isotope composition in the humin fraction.
CLASSIFICATION OF FINITE GROUPS VIA THEIR BREADTH
Authors: HEINEKEN HERMANN , RUSSO FRANCESCO G.
Published: June 2019

Let k be a divisor of a finite group G and Lk(G) = {x ∈ G | xk =1}. Frobenius proved that the number |Lk(G)| is always divisible by k. The following inverse problem is considered: for a given integer n, find all groups G such that max{k-1|Lk(G)| | k ∈ Div(G)} = n, where Div(G) denotes the set of all divisors of |G|. A procedure beginning with (in a sense) minimal members and deducing the remaining ones is outlined and executed for n=8.
Norovirus waterborne outbreak in Chalkidiki, Greece, 2015: detection of GI.P2_GI.2 and GII.P16_GII.13 unusual strains
Authors: Tryfinopoulou K. , Kyritsi M. , Mellou K. , Kolokythopoulou F. , Mouchtouri V.A. , Potamiti-Komi M. , Lamprou A. , Georgakopoulou Th. , Hadjichristodoulou C.
Published: June 2019

Noroviruses, along with rotaviruses, are among the leading causes of gastroenteritis worldwide and novel strains are periodically emerging. In August 2015, an unusual increase of gastroenteritis cases occurred in a touristic district in Kassandra peninsula, Chalkidiki, Northern Greece. Seven stool specimens from cases were tested positive for norovirus. Molecular investigation and phylogenetic analysis identified that there was co-circulation of norovirus GI.P2_GI.2 and the recombinant strain GII.P16_GII.13. A 1:1 case–control study conducted and showed that tap water consumption significantly associated with developing symptoms of gastroenteritis (odds ratio = 36.9,P= 0.018). The results of the epidemiological investigation, the co-circulation of two different norovirus strains, the information of a pipeline breakage at the water supply system before the onset of cases, and reports on flooded wells and sewage overflow, indicated the possibility of water contamination by sewage during the pipeline breakage leading to a large outbreak with a peak at 10 August and a possible secondary person-to-person transmission after the 16th of August. Norovirus GI.P2_GI.2 strains are rarely reported in Europe, while it is the first time that infection from the recombinant strain GII.P16_GII.13 is recorded in Greece.