bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The research about micromachining accuracy control based on fuzzy evaluation algorithm
Authors: Qiao Jian , Lu Qinghua , Zhang Wenbao , Xue Xiangyao
Published: October 2018

The calculation method of nonlinear artificial neural network based on fuzzy evaluation algorithm is introduced. This method is used to evaluate the precision of micro machined machining and to find the influence factors of the precision of micromachining. The traditional machining precision control mainly adopts the linear control strategy, but the micromachining involves the mechanical characteristics of the micro field, and many linear machine adding precision control methods cannot effectively control the precision of the micromachining. Using fuzzy evaluation method, large data cluster training method can be used to fit the control curve of micromachining accuracy. The nonlinear mapping of the fuzzy evaluation algorithm is realized by the large sample training method, and the objective and effective parameter evaluation and precision control of the machining precision in the micro machined field are realized. It is proved that the fuzzy evaluation algorithm can accurately evaluate the precision of micro machined machining. Learning through large data samples can effectively improve the topology practicability and rationality of the algorithm.
Theoretical model for the effect of dust grains on self‐filamentation of a gaussian electromagnetic beam in a fully ionized plasma
Authors: Sharma Ruchi , Sharma Suresh C.
Published: October 2018

A theoretical model for the effect of dust grains on the self‐filamentation of a Gaussian electromagnetic beam propagating in a fully ionized plasma has been developed by employing the energy balance of the plasma constituents, perturbed electron and ion concentrations, and temperature. In this model, neutral atom ionization, re‐integration and accumulation of electrons and ions, photoelectric emission of electrons from the surface of dust grains, as well as elastic and charging collisions have also been considered. The effective dielectric constant in the presence of dust grains has been constructed. The effect of temporal growth of dust grains on various plasma parameters for different values of the dust density has been explored. The variation of the beam width with the normalized channel of propagation has been observed for distinct dust densities and dust charge states. It is observed that the non‐linearity induced by the effective dielectric constant in the presence of dust grains increases the self‐filamentation of the beam, thus enhancing the effective critical power with the dust density. Some of the outcomes of our approach are in line with experimental observations. These outcomes may be useful for explaining space and laboratory plasma experiments as well as for future studies in complex plasmas.
Application of an activity‐based receptor bioassay to investigate the in vitro activity of selected indole‐ and indazole‐3‐carboxamide‐based synthetic cannabinoids at CB1 and CB2 receptors
Authors: Noble Carolina , Cannaert Annelies , Linnet Kristian , Stove Christophe P.
Published: October 2018

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are the most chemically diverse group of new psychoactive substances. This group has been associated with several intoxications, many with fatal outcomes. Although advancements have been achieved in pharmacology, metabolism, and detection of these compounds in recent years, these aspects are still unresolved for many SCs. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro potency of 14 indole‐ and indazole‐based SCs by applying a stable CB1 or CB2 receptor activation assay and correlating the activity with their structure. The half‐maximal effective concentration (EC50) of 5‐chloropentyl, 5‐bromopentyl, and 5‐iodopentyl JWH‐122 analogs varied from 74.1 to 283.7 nM for CB1 and 7.05 to 23.4 nM for CB2, where the addition of a chlorine atom enhanced the potency at CB1 compared with the bromo and iodo analogs. AM‐2201 was the most active at CB1 within this naphthoylindole family, with an EC50 of 23.5 nM but with the lowest efficacy (Emax 98.8%). Within the indole‐3‐carboxamide derivatives, 5F‐MDMB‐PICA was the most active compound, with a CB1/CB2 EC50 of 3.26/0.87 nM and an Emax around three times higher than JWH‐018. ADB‐FUBINACA was the most potent tested SC overall, with a CB1/CB2 EC50 of 0.69/0.59 nM, and an Emax around 3‐fold higher than that for JWH‐018 at CB1. The data obtained in this study confirm how small differences in the structure of SCs might lead to large differences in their activity, especially at CB1, which may be correlated with differences in their toxic effects in humans.
The hypolipidemic effects of Tamarindus indica fruit pulp extract in normal and diet‐induced hypercholesterolemic hamsters are associated with altered levels of serum proteins
Authors: Lim Chor Yin , Junit Sarni Mat , Aziz Azlina Abdul , Jayapalan Jaime Jacqueline , Hashim Onn Haji
Published: October 2018

The hypolipidemic effects of Tamarindus indica fruit pulp extract (Ti‐FPE) have been earlier reported but the underlying molecular mechanisms are still uncertain. In this study, hamsters fed with Ti‐FPE, both in the absence and presence of high‐cholesterol diet, were shown to have significantly reduced levels of serum triglyceride, LDL‐C and total cholesterol. The Ti‐FPE‐fed non‐hypercholesterolemic hamsters also showed significant enhanced levels of serum apolipoprotein A1, antithrombin III, transferrin and vitamin D binding protein. In diet‐induced hypercholesterolemic hamsters, apolipoprotein A1, antithrombin III and transferrin, which were relatively low in levels, became significantly enhanced when the hamsters were fed with Ti‐FPE. These Ti‐FPE‐fed hypercholesterolemic hamsters also showed significant higher levels of serum vitamin D binding protein. When the different treated groups of hamsters were analyzed for the levels of the four serum proteins by ELISA, similar altered abundance were detected. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis of the Ti‐FPE modulated serum proteins singled out “Lipid metabolism, molecular transport, small molecule biochemistry” as the top network. Our results suggest that the hypolipidemic effects of Ti‐FPE are associated with alterations of serum proteins that are known to be cardioprotective and involved in the metabolism of lipids. The MS data have been deposited to the ProteomeXchange Consortium with the dataset identifier PXD010232.
Sleeping beauty transposon‐mediated poly(A)‐trapping and insertion mutagenesis in mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Zhao Yi , Song Guili , Ren Jing , Li Qing , Zhong Shan , Cui Zongbin
Published: October 2018

Saturation mutagenesis of all endogenous genes within the mouse genome remains a challenging task, although a plenty of gene‐editing approaches are available for this purpose. Here, a poly(A)‐trap vector was generated for insertion mutagenesis in mouse embryonic stem (mES) cells. This vector contains an expression cassette of neomycin (Neo)‐resistant gene lacking a poly(A) signal and flanked by two inverted terminal repeats of the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon. The whole poly(A)‐trap cassette can transpose into target TA dinucleotides, properly splice with endogenous genes and effectively interrupt the transcription of trapped genes in mES cells after transient induction of SB expression by doxycycline (DOX)‐treatment at 1 μg/ml, leading to the formation of multiple geneticin (G418)‐resistant cell clones. In the first round of mutation screening, we identified six transposition events from 23 cell clones, including four inserted into an endogenous gene and two landed between endogenous genes. The abilities of self‐renewal, totipotency, genetic stability and differentiation of syngap1+/− cells were not affected by DOX‐treatment and G418‐selection. These findings suggest that this SB transposon‐mediated poly(A)‐trap vector can be used as an alternative tool for a large‐scale screening of mES cells with a gene mutation and for further generation of mutant mouse strains. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:687–697, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improving Irrigation Scheduling of Wheat to Increase Water Productivity in Shallow Groundwater Conditions Using Aquacrop
Authors: Goosheh Mohiaddin , Pazira Ebrahim , Gholami Ali , Andarzian Bahram , Panahpour Ebrahim
Published: October 2018

Irrigation scheduling plays a key role in increasing crop production and controlling soil salinity in arid and semi‐arid regions. Inappropriate irrigation scheduling is considered an effective factor in low water productivity and soil salinization in central and southern parts of Khuzestan. Therefore, the aim of this research was to improve irrigation scheduling in order to increase water productivity and maintain the water and salt balance in a district in central Khuzestan. AquaCrop was selected as the research model, and the effects of the scenarios on wheat grain yield, water productivity, salt and water content in an effective root zone, and salt content moved upward from the groundwater table by capillary rise were compared with each other. Various scenarios of irrigation scheduling were simulated for a 12‐year period (2003–2014). To collect the required data for calibration and validation of the model, a field experiment was carried out during the wheat growing season (2014–2015). The results of the model evaluation indicated that it was an appropriate one for simulating the water and salt balance in the soil and wheat grain yield under different irrigation scheduling scenarios in experimental conditions. Finally, the recommended irrigation scheduling for wheat was seven times of irrigation with 550 mm water consumption. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Atypical Periprosthetic Femoral Fractures
Authors: Leclerc Jean-Thomas , Michou Laëtitia , Vaillancourt François , Pelet Stéphane , Simonyan David , Belzile Etienne L
Published: October 2018

Bisphosphonate use has been associated with atypical femoral fractures (AFFs), defined by the American Society of Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR) Task Force criteria, which currently exclude periprosthetic fractures. The objectives of this study were to establish the prevalence of atypical periprosthetic femoral fractures (APFFs) in patients with hip and knee arthroplasties and to determine the clinical and radiological risk factors associated with these fractures. We performed a retrospective radiological review of all femoral fractures between January 1, 2006, and March 31, 2015, in Quebec City, Canada. Patients who sustained a periprosthetic femoral fracture (PFF) were identified and included in this study. We used the ASBMR Task Force criteria to identify atypical fractures and establish their prevalence. Data from medical records and radiological assessments of the femoral anatomy, the characteristics of the fracture, and the positioning of the prosthesis were collected. The prevalence of APFFs among PFFs was 8.3% (11/133). A strong association with bisphosphonates (p = 0.007) was observed, as well as an increased risk of APFFs among alendronate users compared to risedronate users (p = 0.04). A transverse fracture (p < 0.0001), a periosteal thickening of the lateral cortex at the fracture (p < 0.0001), a unicortical fracture (p = 0.02), and prodromal symptoms (p = 0.03) were associated with APFFs. The type of implant, its positioning, and the femoral geometry did not appear to be risk factors for APFFs compared to PFFs. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Diving into chemical bonding: An immersive analysis of the electron charge rearrangement through virtual reality
Authors: Salvadori Andrea , Fusè Marco , Mancini Giordano , Rampino Sergio , Barone Vincenzo
Published: October 2018

An integrated environment for the analysis of chemical bonding based on immersive virtual reality is presented. Using a multiscreen stereoscopic projection system, researchers are cast into the world of atoms and molecules, where they can visualize at a human scale the electron charge rearrangement (computed via state‐of‐the‐art quantum‐chemical methods) occurring on bond formation throughout the molecular region. Thanks to specifically designed features, such a virtual laboratory couples the immediacy of an immersive experience with a powerful, recently developed method yielding quantitative, spatially detailed pictures of the several charge flows involved in the formation of a chemical bond. By means of two case studies on organometallic complexes, we show how familiar concepts in coordination chemistry, such as donation and back‐donation charge flows, can be effectively identified and quantified to predict experimental observables. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Fetal Cardiac Ventricular Widths and Ratios Using a 24‐Segment Speckle Tracking Technique
Authors: DeVore Greggory R. , Cuneo Bettina , Klas Berthold , Satou Gary , Sklansky Mark
Published: October 2018

Introduction

This study was conducted to evaluate the 24‐segment transverse widths of the right and left ventricles distributed from the base to the apex of the ventricular chambers and compute the right ventricular (RV)/left ventricular (LV) ratios for each segment.

Methods

Two hundred control fetuses were examined between 20 and 40 weeks’ gestation. Using offline speckle‐tracking software, the 24 end‐diastolic transverse widths were computed and the RV/LV ratios were regressed against 7 independent variables related to the size, weight, and age of the fetuses. Five fetuses with coarctation of the aorta and 5 fetuses with pulmonary stenosis were examined to exemplify the utility of these measurements.

Findings

The 24‐segment transverse widths were associated with changes in fetal size, weight, and age. Regression equations were developed to describe these changes with R2 values between .5 and .82. The measurements were normally distributed (Shapiro‐Wilk > 0.5). The RV/LV ratio for the 24 segments did not strongly correlate (R2 = .001 to –.2) with fetal size, weight, or gestational age. Fetuses with coarctation of the aorta and pulmonary stenosis demonstrated characteristic changes in the 24‐segment transverse widths and the RV/LV ratios in the basal (segments 1–8), mid (segments 9–16) and apical (segments 17–24) sections of the ventricles.

Conclusions

The 24‐segment transverse widths of the right and left ventricles and the RV/LV ratios provide a comprehensive method to examine the width of the ventricular chambers.
Percutaneous Ultrasonic Tenotomy Reduces Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy Pain With High Patient Satisfaction and a Low Complication Rate
Authors: Chimenti Ruth L. , Stover Daniel W. , Fick Benjamin S. , Hall Mederic M.
Published: October 2018

Due to the novelty of percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy, the risks and benefits of this minimally invasive procedure for insertional Achilles tendinopathy pain have only been examined in case studies and retrospective chart reviews for other diagnoses. This retrospective chart review over a 3.5‐year period identified 34 patients with insertional Achilles tendinopathy who had percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy (mean age ± SD, 52.2 ± 11.6 years; mean body mass index, 32.9 ± 7.5 kg/m2; 62% female). This procedure reduced the rate of moderate/severe pain from 68% at baseline to 15% at the long‐term follow‐up and had a satisfaction rate of 70%. There was 1 minor complication out of 40 procedures in 34 patients.
Prenatal Evaluation for Detection of Anorectal Atresia: Value of Ultrasound
Authors: Su Yi‐Ming , Lin Yan , Chen Shu‐Qiang , Yang Hong‐Yi , Lv Guo‐Rong , Lin Jin‐Rong
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To investigate the applicability and value of ultrasound (US) in the diagnosis of anorectal atresia.

Methods

Between January 2008 and January 2016, we prospectively evaluated 63,101 fetuses (gestational age, 20–38 weeks), including low‐ and high‐risk populations using 2‐dimensional US scans. An abnormal imaging finding was defined as an anal canal diameter of less than the 95% confidence interval (small anal canal) of the normal range or the absence of an anal canal and rectum. Imaging findings were considered normal on detection of an anal canal with a normal width and the absence of abnormalities. Prenatal imaging findings were confirmed by a postnatal or postmortem examination.

Results

Among the investigated fetuses, 28 showed evidence of anorectal atresia on US scans, and 22 of those with anorectal atresia had additional anomalies. Six cases of isolated anorectal atresia were successfully detected during the preclusive prenatal US scans. Four cases of a low imperforate anus (including 2 covered anuses) yielded false‐negative results, indicating a diagnostic rate of 87.5% (28 of 32). The normal appearance of the fetal rectum and anal canal ruled out anorectal atresia in 30 fetuses with a dilated colon. Additionally, there were 3 false‐positive cases, in which a narrow anal canal was observed.

Conclusions

Identifying the abnormal appearance or absence of the fetal anal canal and rectum on preclusive US anomaly scans is useful for prenatal diagnosis or exclusion of anorectal atresia, which may help improve the detection of isolated anorectal atresia. Furthermore, a combined evaluation of the longitudinal and axial appearances of the fetal anal canal and rectum can improve diagnostic accuracy.
Miniphocibacter massiliensis gen. nov., sp. nov., a new species isolated from the human gut and its taxono‐genomics description
Authors: Bilen Melhem , Mbogning Fonkou Maxime D. , Nguyen Thi T. , Richez Magali , Daoud Ziad , Fournier Pierre E. , Raoult Didier , Cadoret Frédéric
Published: October 2018

With the aim of describing the human microbiota by the means of culture methods, culturomics was developed in order to target previously un‐isolated bacterial species and describe it via the taxono‐genomics approach. While performing a descriptive study of the human gut microbiota of the pygmy people, strain Marseille‐P4678T has been isolated from a stool sample of a healthy 39‐year‐old pygmy male. Cells of this strain were Gram‐positive cocci, spore‐forming, non‐motile, catalase‐positive and oxidase‐negative, and grow optimally at 37°C under anaerobic conditions. Its 16S rRNA gene sequence exhibited 89.69% of sequence similarity with Parvimonas micra strain 3119BT (NR 036934.1), its phylogenetically closest species with standing in nomenclature. The genome of strain Marseille‐P4678T is 2,083,161 long with 28.26 mol% of G+C content. Based on its phenotypic, biochemical, genotypic and proteomic profile, this bacterium was classified as a new bacterial genus and species Miniphocibacter massiliensis gen. nov., sp. nov. with the type strain Marseille‐P4678T.
Thermosets containing benzoxazole units: Liquid‐crystalline behavior and thermal conductivity
Authors: Hasegawa Masatoshi , Shigeta Kasumi , Ishii Junichi
Published: October 2018

A series of liquid‐crystalline (LC) thermosetting monomers containing benzoxazole (BO) units were synthesized to evaluate the thermal conductivities (λ) of their cured resins. A BO‐containing bisnadiimide system showed LC behavior during the heating process. However, the thermal cure of the bisnadiimide provided a film without optical anisotropy; consequently, the cured film exhibited normal levels of thermal diffusivity (α) and thermal conductivity (λ). The disappearance of the optically anisotropic ordered structures during thermal curing is likely related to the temperature gaps between the cure reaction ranges and LC ranges (Tcure‐TLC gap). In addition, epoxy resins consisting of bisepoxides and BO‐containing diamines were investigated because of their high flexibility in terms of molecular design that can be used to reduce the Tcure‐TLC gap. The combination of a terephthalylidene‐type bisepoxide and BO‐containing diamine with a controlled flexible chain length resulted in the smallest Tcure‐TLC gap among the epoxy resin systems examined herein. The cured epoxy resin film exhibited an appreciably increased λ value (0.257 W m−1 K−1) in the Z direction. This indicated the importance of the Tcure‐TLC gap for enhancing the α and λ values of the cured films. This epoxy resin system was cured under a continuous DC electric field during polarizing optical microscopy. A prompt response with deformation of the LC domains was observed in harmony with temporal ON/OFF switching of the DC power supply. As expected, the cured film exhibited a significantly enhanced λ value (0.488 W m−1 K−1) in the Z direction.
Clinical and biological relevance of genetic alterations in pediatric T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in Taiwan
Authors: Yeh Ting‐Chi , Liang Der‐Cherng , Liu Hsi‐Che , Jaing Tang‐Her , Chen Shih‐Hsiang , Hou Jen‐Yin , Yang Chao‐Ping , Huang Ying‐Jung , Yao Hsien‐Wen , Huang Ting‐Yu , Lin Tung‐Huei , Shih Lee‐Yung
Published: October 2018

Background

The leukemogenesis of T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) involves multistep processes of genetic alterations. We aimed to determine the genetic alterations including common fusion transcripts, overexpression of T‐cell transcription factor oncogenes, and deletion or mutation of targeted genes in pediatric T‐ALL in Taiwan as well as their impact on outcomes in those treated with the Taiwan Pediatric Oncology Group‐ALL‐2002 protocol.

Procedure

Between 1995 and 2015, bone marrow samples obtained from 102 children aged <18 years consecutively diagnosed with T‐ALL were examined. Thirty‐two genetic alterations were examined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays—PCR‐based assays—followed by direct sequencing, real time quantitative PCR with TaqMan assays, or multiplex ligase probe amplification.

Results

TAL1 overexpression, CDKN2A/2B deletions, and NOTCH1 mutation were the most frequent aberrations while none had NF1, SUZ12 deletion, JAK1 or JAK2 mutations, or NUP214‐ABL1 fusion in our cohort. The most frequent cooperating occurrence of genetic alterations included CDKN2A/2B and MTAP, MTAP and CDKN2B, LEF1 and PTPN2, and HOX11L2 and PHF6 mutation/deletion. NOTCH1 mutations conferred a favorable overall survival, whereas SIL‐TAL1 fusion, TAL overexpression, LEF1 deletion, and PHF6 deletion/mutation were associated with an inferior outcome. By multivariate analysis, PHF6 mutation/deletion was the only independent predictor for inferior overall survival.

Conclusions

The present study showed that the frequencies of genetic alterations in Taiwanese children with T‐ALL differed considerably from those reported in Western countries. PHF6 mutation/deletion was an independently adverse predictor.
A new UHPLC‐MS/MS method for the direct determination of strigolactones in root exudates and extracts
Authors: Rial Carlos , Varela Rosa M. , Molinillo José M.G. , López‐Ráez Juan A. , Macías Francisco A.
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Strigolactones (SLs) are the most representative germination stimulants for seeds of root parasitic plants, and they show activity even at concentrations below 10−10 M. The low amounts of stimulants produced by the host and their rapid degradability make it crucial to develop analytical methods with very low limits of quantification.

Objective

To develop a sensitive and validated analytical method for the simultaneous quantification of seven SLs [7‐oxoorobanchyl acetate (1), solanacol (2), orobanchol (4), strigol (5), fabacyl acetate (6), orobanchyl acetate (7), and 5‐deoxystrigol (8)].

Methods

SLs were analysed using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS/MS), with (±)‐GR24 (3) employed as internal standard (IS). Validation was based on selectivity, linearity, precision of the peak areas (repeatability and intermediate precision), detection and quantification limits, and stability.

Results

A simple, rapid and reliable UHPLC‐MS/MS method has been validated for the routine analysis of seven SLs and has been successfully applied to quantify them in exudates and extracts from tomato roots (Solanum lycopersicum). The limits of quantifications range from 0.05 μg/L for 5‐deoxystrigol to 0.96 μg/L for solanacol.

Conclusion

The method provides a useful tool for research in all the fields related to SLs, both for studies related to their function as hormones, and signalling molecules in the rhizosphere, without sample preparation required for extracts and root exudates in less than 11 minutes.
Self‐assembly of β‐turn motif‐connected tandem repeats of Aβ16‐22 and its aromatic analogs
Authors: Datta Debika , Harikrishna Adicherla , Nagaraj Ramakrishnan , Chaudhary Nitin
Published: October 2018

Self‐assembly of peptides and proteins into aggregates with a signature of cross‐β conformation is a hallmark of amyloids. Short peptides have provided important insights in understanding the various interactions that drive self‐assembly as well as the molecular architecture of the self‐assembled structures. The short amyloidogenic‐stretch of β‐amyloid, Aβ16‐22 (Ac‐KLVFFAE‐am), is a good model peptide to study the aspects of β‐amyloid fibril formation. In order to investigate how a turn‐supporting sequence could modulate the interaction of the Ac‐KLVXZAE‐am chains, where X and Z are the aromatic amino acids, Phe, Tyr, or Trp, we investigated the self‐assembly of Ac‐KLVFFAE‐am, Ac‐KLVFYAE‐am, Ac‐KLVYYAE‐am, and Ac‐KLVWWAE‐am separated by turn‐inducing dipeptide motifs, Asn‐Gly, DPro‐Gly, and Aib‐DPro. The peptides harboring β‐turn‐inducing motifs aggregate rapidly causing large enhancements in thioflavin T (ThT) fluorescence compared to control, β‐turn motif lacking peptides. The morphology of fibrils strongly depends on the type of β‐turn. Ac‐KLVFYAE‐am repeats separated by Aib‐DPro and DPro‐Gly have the highest aggregation propensity among all the peptides studied; they caused very large enhancement in ThT fluorescence. Ac‐KLVYYAE‐am is largely non‐amyloidogenic; the DPro‐Gly and Aib‐DPro connected repeats, however, resulted in distinct fibrils that bind ThT. The study indicates that β‐turn motifs can be exploited to modulate and control the aggregation propensity of peptides and the morphology of aggregates.
Controllable immobilization of proteins in quenched spherical polyelectrolyte brushes as observed by fluorescence spectroscopy and small angle X‐ray scattering
Authors: Ye Zhishuang , Li Li , Zhao Fang , Han Haoya , Tian Yuchuan , Wang Yunwei , Yang Qingsong , Fan Wenting , Guo Xuhong
Published: October 2018

The immobilization of lysozymes (pI = 11) onto anionic spherical polyelectrolyte brushes (SPB) which consist of a solid polystyrene core and a densely grafted poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) shell was systematically studied by fluorescence spectroscopy and small angle X‐ray scattering. Results show that the capture of lysozyme by PSS brush is a dynamic process, which involves a quick agglomeration stage and a slow rearrangement one. And lysozyme inclines to immobilize in the inner layer of the brush, and saturation of lysozyme adsorption onto the SPB is gradually reached as the protein concentration increases, proceeding from the inside to the outside of the brush layers. As increasing the pH and ionic strength, the lysozyme previously adsorbed will be partially released and migrate from the inner to the outer layer of SPB. Last competitive adsorption tests between lysozyme and BSA or β‐glucosidase were performed, indicating that besides electrostatic interaction counterion release force also plays an important role in protein adsorption. SPB was proved to be ideal candidate for controllable immobilization of protein, which can be extended into various applications, such as drug delivery and protein separation. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 1577–1588
Knowledge about risk factors for falls and practice about fall prevention in older adults among physiotherapists in Nigeria
Authors: Kalu Michael E. , Vlachantoni Athina , Norman Kathleen E.
Published: October 2018

Background and Objective

Falling is a major health concern that has contributed significantly to older people's injury and loss of life worldwide, warranting the development of fall‐prevention strategies, the success of which has been attributed to the levels of knowledge and practice about fall prevention among physiotherapists and other health professionals. The objective of this study was to determine the self‐reported levels of knowledge on risk factors of fall and practices about fall prevention in older adults among physiotherapists in Nigeria.

Methods

Physiotherapists (N = 237) recruited from the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria completed a three‐part structured questionnaire that asked questions about risk factors for fall and common practices for fall prevention using a 5‐point‐rated Likert scale. Data were analysed using descriptive analysis, chi‐square, and Kruskal–Wallis tests.

Results

Among physiotherapists in Nigeria, 89% rated their level of knowledge about preventing falls among older adults as high, and 64% of them rated their level of practice on this topic as high. Among the individual items that measured knowledge, 40% of the participants reported a moderate level of knowledge about multiple medications as a risk factor for falls. Fifty percent of the participants reported a low level of practice of referral to other health care professionals, whereas 40% and 41% reported a moderate level of practice on documenting risk factors and treatment plans, respectively. There was no association between age, gender, or years of practice with levels of knowledge or practice.

Conclusion

This study suggests that physiotherapists in Nigeria have adequate knowledge and practice for fall prevention in older adults. However, there are potential gaps in knowledge of risk factors, documentation, and referrals to other professions that may be addressed through developing context‐specific fall‐prevention clinical guidelines for practice in Nigeria.
Truck‐mounted area‐wide applications of larvicides and adulticides for extended suppression of adult Aedes albopictus
Authors: Unlu Isik , Faraji Ary , Williams Gregory M , Marcombe Sebastien , Fonseca Dina M , Gaugler Randy
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Given the lack of vaccines for most vector‐borne diseases, vector control is often the primary option for disease control. Aedes albopictus are difficult to control because the immatures primarily develop in containers ubiquitous in residential properties. Conventional adulticide campaigns often result in brief, rebounding population declines, so incorporating new techniques into an integrated pest management program is imperative. We performed combined area‐wide applications of the larvicides Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis and pyriproxyfen with the adulticide sumithrin and prallethrin to achieve extended suppression of Ae. albopictus populations in Trenton, NJ, USA. We deployed bioassay cups to assess the spatial penetration and efficacy of the applications.

RESULTS

Inhibition of adult emergence was significantly higher in the treatment bioassay cups than in laboratory controls (z = 4.65, P < 0.0001) and field control bioassay cups (z = 8.93, P < 0.0001). We observed a lower trend in adult numbers following season‐long combined application of pyriproxyfen and adulticide, with numbers of adult Ae. albopictus at the treatment site up to five times lower than at the control site.

CONCLUSION

Pyriproxyfen is a powerful mosquito larvicide and pupacide with low mammalian toxicity that shows promise for area‐wide vehicle‐mounted (either ground or airborne) applications. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of copper and lead in tequila by conventional matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and partial least squares regression
Authors: Garcia Manuel Mendez , Wrobel Kazimierz , Barrientos Eunice Yanez , Escobosa Alma Rosa Corrales , Serrano Oracio , Donis Israel Enciso , Wrobel Katarzyna
Published: October 2018

Rationale

Quantification of small molecules by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOFMS) is challenging yet attractive, due to micro‐scale procedural simplicity, high throughput and lack of memory effects. Since these features are important while analyzing trace elements in quality control schemes, MALDI‐TOFMS was used for the determination of copper (Cu) and lead (Pb) in tequila with quantification carried out by partial least squares regression (PLS2) and by univariate calibration (UC).

Methods

In the proposed procedure, Bi(III) was added as internal standard (IS), diethyldithiocarbamate complexes were formed (pH 7.4) and extracted into chloroform; after solvent evaporation and re‐constitution in acetonitrile, the sample was co‐crystallized with α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid on a steel target. From the acquired mass spectra, UC was performed using IS‐normalized signals of the monoisotopic ions of analytes, and the m/z range 350–513 was used for PLS2. Accuracy was tested by recovery experiments and by inductively coupled plasma (ICP)‐MS analysis.

Results

When compared with direct analyte signal measurements, application of IS yielded enhanced analytical performance using either UC or PLS2; the method quantification limits were: 11.1 μg L−1, 23.4 μg L−1 for Cu and 89.8 μg L−1, 97.1 μg L−1 for Pb, respectively. In tequila, MALDI‐TOFMS and ICP‐MS provided consistent results for Cu (165–2599 μg L−1); Pb was not detected in any sample by MALDI‐TOFMS, yet recoveries obtained after standard addition were indicative of acceptable accuracy (400 μg L−1 Pb added; recoveries: 91.2–108% for UC and 98.8–120% for PLS2).

Conclusions

New experimental evidence has been provided supporting the inclusion of trace metals quantification within a range of MALDI‐TOFMS applications. Slightly better results were obtained for UC as compared with PLS2 yet both methods can be recommended for testing the compliance of Cu and Pb levels with Official Mexican Norm. Of note, while using PLS2, there is no need for signal integration nor for IS normalization.
Atomistic study of GaSe/Ge(111) interface formed through van der Waals epitaxy
Authors: Yonezawa Takahiro , Murakami Tatsuya , Higashimine Koichi , Fleurence Antoine , Oshima Yoshifumi , Yamada‐Takamura Yukiko
Published: October 2018

Layered materials can be grown on various substrates through van der Waals epitaxy (vdWE) regardless of lattice mismatch. The atomistic study of the film‐substrate interface in vdWE is becoming increasingly important due to their expected applications as two‐dimensional (2D) materials. In this contribution, we have grown GaSe thin films on Ge(111) substrates by molecular beam epitaxy and studied the GaSe/Ge(111) interface using high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF‐STEM). Cross‐sectional HAADF‐STEM observations revealed that the grown layers adopt predominantly the expected wurtzite‐like structure and stacking, but layers with zinc‐blende‐like structure, similar to Ga2Se3 but apparently different, and other layer stacking sequences, exist locally near the film‐substrate interface. These results demonstrate that even in vdWE, structural changes can occur in the grown layers adjacent to the substrate, highlighting the importance of such interface for synthesizing and applying ultimately thin 2D materials.
Self‐beliefs in organic chemistry: Evaluation of a reciprocal causation, cross‐lagged model
Authors: Gibbons Rebecca E. , Raker Jeffrey R.
Published: October 2018

This study is designed to test a reciprocal causation, cross‐lagged model of self‐concept, self‐efficacy, and achievement in a postsecondary STEM course. Both self‐efficacy and self‐concept are known to be related to achievement; however, there is a need to untangle the relationship between the two constructs as well as their association to achievement across time to best direct future research efforts. To achieve this research interest, a longitudinal measurement strategy was used to measure chemistry self‐concept and self‐efficacy for learning and performance before and after achievement measures (i.e., two term examinations) in a postsecondary organic chemistry course context. A reciprocal causation, cross‐lagged model best fits the data as a representation of the relationships between these three measures over time as compared to autoregressive, performance effects, and self‐belief effects models. Significant paths in the reciprocal causation, cross‐lagged model include the first self‐concept measure to the first achievement measure as well as from the second self‐concept measure to the third self‐efficacy measure. Relationships from achievement to each subsequent self‐belief measure were also significant. This study demonstrates the ability of longitudinal measurements of multiple constructs in postsecondary STEM educational research to collect nuanced information that is overlooked when pre‐measure designs of single constructs are used. In the classroom, an initial measure of self‐concept can inform instructors of the likelihood of students to succeed on an initial achievement measure, at which point they may choose to implement some of the targeted intervention strategies from literature.
“I don't think it's science:” African American girls and the figured world of school science
Authors: Wade‐Jaimes Katherine , Schwartz Renee
Published: October 2018

This study explores how the figured world of school science is influenced by macro level discourses of science, education, race, and gender that are circulated in society and perpetuated through schooling. It also examines how the figured world of school science defines limited means of recognition, both positive and negative, for African American girls. As part of a larger critical ethnography, data was collected over 2 years in one middle school and in one seventh grade science class. We present an analysis of the figured world of school science present in the study, a description of how the macro level discourses at the school impacted that figured world, and a description of the Discourses (ways of saying, doing, and being that are recognized as certain types of people) available to students in the figured world. Our results reveal a limited, and inherently unjust, set of Discourses are available to students in this figured world. In addition, Discourses that would support learning and development in science were noticeably absent. This leads to a world in which African American girls gain positive recognition as good science students for being quiet, polite, passive, and fast workers. We argue that this not only unfairly marginalizes many students from school science, in fails to prepare any students for meaningful engagement with science. We conclude with implications for both teaching and research, calling for ways to allow African American girls to self‐define with respect to science and research to better understand the larger contextual factors influence on teachers and other settings.
Application of Adomian‐type method to solve rectangular laminated thick plates in bending
Authors: Lisbôa Tales de Vargas , Marczak Rogério José
Published: October 2018

This paper aims the use of Adomian Decomposition Method along with the pb‐2 Rayleigh‐Ritz Method to obtain the response of thick laminated plates. The Mindlin Plate Theory and the equivalent single layer concept are utilised. The differential operator is decomposed accordingly to a hierarchic constitutive scheme, resulting in a superposition of isotropic and anisotropic constitutive tensors at lamina's level. This implies the superposition of isotropic and a remainder plate stiffness with the latter grouping the anisotropic influence of each lamina at plate's level. By the Adomian Decomposition Method, an isotropic plate solution (related to the isotropic stiffness) is recursively enhanced by the laminae influence (remainder stiffness). Convergence criteria and numeric results are presented, discussed and compared with those found in the literature.
Strong cosmic censorship: taking the rough with the smooth
Authors: Dias Oscar J. C. , Reall Harvey S. , Santos Jorge E.
Published: October 2018

Abstract

It has been argued that the strong cosmic censorship conjecture is violated by Reissner-Nordström-de Sitter black holes: for near-extremal black holes, generic scalar field perturbations arising from smooth initial data have finite energy at the Cauchy horizon even though they are not continuously differentiable there. In this paper, we consider the analogous problem for coupled gravitational and electromagnetic perturbations. We find that such perturbations exhibit a much worse violation of strong cosmic censorship: for a sufficiently large near-extremal black hole, perturbations arising from smooth initial data can be extended through the Cauchy horizon in an arbitrarily smooth way. This is in apparent contradiction with an old argument in favour of strong cosmic censorship. We resolve this contradiction by showing that this old argument is valid only for initial data that is not smooth. This is in agreement with the recent proposal that, to recover strong cosmic censorship, one must allow rough initial data.
Clockworking FIMPs
Authors: Goudelis Andreas , Mohan Kirtimaan A. , Sengupta Dipan
Published: October 2018

Abstract

We study freeze-in dark matter production in models that rely on the Clock-work mechanism to suppress the dark matter couplings to the visible sector. We construct viable scalar and fermionic dark matter models within this “Clockwork FIMP” scenario, with several subtleties that need to be taken into account revealed in the model-building process. We also provide analytic, semi-analytic and numerical results for the diagonalization of Clockwork-type mass matrices and briefly discuss the LHC phenomenology of the corresponding scenarios.
Natural products from anaerobes
Authors: Li Jeffrey S , Barber Colin Charles , Zhang Wenjun
Published: October 2018

Natural product discovery in the microbial world has historically been biased toward aerobes. Recent in silico analysis demonstrates that genomes of anaerobes encode unexpected biosynthetic potential for natural products, however, chemical data on natural products from the anaerobic world are extremely limited. Here, we review the current body of work on natural products isolated from strictly anaerobic microbes, including recent genome mining efforts to discover polyketides and non-ribosomal peptides from anaerobes. These known natural products of anaerobes have demonstrated interesting molecular scaffolds, biosynthetic logic, and/or biological activities, making anaerobes a promising reservoir for future natural product discovery.
High Altitude Illness: Knowledge, Practice, and Attitudes of Porters in Nepal
Authors: Koirala Pranawa , Wolpin Seth E. , Peterson Janet T.
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Porters working at high altitude face a number of preventable health risks ranging from frostbite to potentially fatal high-altitude pulmonary and cerebral edema. Porters are often recruited from impoverished low-altitude areas, poorly equipped in terms of protective clothing, and tasked with carrying loads that equal or exceed their body mass to high elevations. Despite a large population of porters working throughout mountainous parts of the world, there is little documentation regarding knowledge levels, attitudes, and practices related to the prevention of altitude illness in this population. Much of the literature focuses on biomechanics of load carrying for porters or altitude issues for trekkers.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was developed using a modified Delphi technique. The survey was administered to a convenience sample of porters (n=146) from diverse cultural groups between Lukla (2774 m) and Everest Base Camp (5361 m).

Results

Many of the porters started at a young age, carried heavy loads, and had difficulty identifying symptoms of high altitude illness, and less than 20% correctly identified preventive measures for high-altitude illness.

Conclusions

Porters in the Khumbu region continue to face hazards in their working environment. Future research and health education campaigns should address knowledge deficits and help with the design of tailored interventions.
Chronic Neurological Disease Due to Methylmercury Poisoning
Authors: Jackson Alan C.
Published: October 2018

Organic mercury, especially methylmercury, poisoning causes chronic neurological disease predominantly affecting the brain. There have been documented exposures from eating fish from contaminated waters in Japan and in northwestern Ontario and in Iraq from eating bread made from seed wheat treated with methylmercuric fungicide. The neurological disease is called Minamata disease in Japan. Visual field constriction due to involvement of the calcarine cortex, sensory disturbance due to involvement of the somatosensory cortex, and cerebellar ataxia due to involvement of granule cell neurons of the cerebellum are common and characteristic features due to methylmercury poisoning. Other neurological features include dysarthria, postural and action tremor, cognitive impairment, and hearing loss and dysequilibrium. In contrast, peripheral nerve disease is more characteristic of inorganic mercury intoxication. Similarly, psychosis is more typical of exposure to inorganic mercury, which has been documented in the felt hat industry (“mad hatter”). Laboratory tests (e.g., on blood and hair and toenail samples) are of limited value in the assessment of chronic neurological disease due to mercury poisoning because they may not reflect remote neuronal injury due to mercury. Methylmercury also causes injury to fetal brains during development. There is no effective treatment.
Weakly nonlinear instability of a Newtonian liquid jet
Authors: Renoult Marie-Charlotte , Brenn Günter , Plohl Gregor , Mutabazi Innocent
Published: October 2018

A weakly nonlinear stability analysis of an axisymmetric Newtonian liquid jet is presented. The calculation is based on a small-amplitude perturbation method and performed to second order in the perturbation parameter. The obtained solution includes terms derived from a polynomial approximation of a viscous contribution containing products of Bessel functions with different arguments. The use of such an approximation is not needed in the inviscid case and the planar case, since the equations of those problems can be solved in an exact form. The developed model depends on three dimensionless parameters: the initial perturbation amplitude, the perturbation wavenumber and the liquid Ohnesorge number, the latter being the dimensionless liquid viscosity. The influence of the approximate terms was shown to be relatively small for a large range of Ohnesorge numbers so that they can be ignored. This simplification provides a jet model as simple to use as the previous ones, but taking into account the liquid viscosity and the cylindrical geometry. The jet model is used to reveal the effect of both the wavenumber and the Ohnesorge number on the formation of satellite drops, which is known as a nonlinear effect. Results are found in good agreement with direct numerical simulations and forced liquid jet experiments for wavenumbers lower than a threshold value. Satellite drop formation is retarded with increasing Ohnesorge number and wavenumber, as expected by the damping and size effects of viscosity. The threshold number corresponds to the maximum wavenumber for which satellite drop formation is predicted before jet breakup, and for which volume conservation is satisfied within a certain amount. The volume conservation criterion is imposed to ensure that the conclusions inferred by our model are safe.