bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in the development of power supplies for the Internet of Everything
Authors: Fan Xiayue , Liu Xiaorui , Hu Wenbin , Zhong Cheng , Lu Jun
Published: June 2019

The Internet of Everything (IoE), which aims to realize information exchange and communications for anything with the Internet, has revolutionized our modern world. Serving as the driving force for devices in the IoE network, power supply systems play a fundamental role in the development of the IoE. However, due to the complexity, multifunctionality and wide‐scale deployment of diverse applications, power supply systems face great challenges, including distribution, connection, charging technologies, and management. In this review, some challenges and advances in the development of both power supply systems and their units are presented. In the overall system‐level field, establishing sustainable and maintenance‐free power supply systems through wireless connections, efficient power management and integrated energy harvesting and storage systems is highlighted. Additionally, the main performance metrics of power supply units are discussed, including energy density, service life, and self‐power ability. In addition, some directions of power quality assessment for both the system and unit levels of power supply systems are presented, aiming to provide insight into the future development of high‐performance power supply systems for the IoE.
History of tRNA research in strasbourg
Authors: Florentz Catherine , Giegé Richard
Published: June 2019

The tRNA molecules, in addition to translating the genetic code into protein and defining the second genetic code via their aminoacylation by aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases, act in many other cellular functions and dysfunctions. This article, illustrated by personal souvenirs, covers the history of ~60 years tRNA research in Strasbourg. Typical examples point up how the work in Strasbourg was a two‐way street, influenced by and at the same time influencing investigators outside of France. All along, research in Strasbourg has nurtured the structural and functional diversity of tRNA. It produced massive sequence and crystallographic data on tRNA and its partners, thereby leading to a deeper physicochemical understanding of tRNA architecture, dynamics, and identity. Moreover, it emphasized the role of nucleoside modifications and in the last two decades, highlighted tRNA idiosyncrasies in plants and organelles, together with cellular and health‐focused aspects. The tRNA field benefited from a rich local academic heritage and a strong support by both university and CNRS. Its broad interlinks to the worldwide community of tRNA researchers opens to an exciting future. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 2019 © 2019 IUBMB Life, 71(8):1066–1087, 2019
Trilayer scaffold with cardiosphere‐derived cells for heart valve tissue engineering
Authors: Chen Qi , Bruyneel Arne , Carr Carolyn , Czernuszka Jan
Published: June 2019

Natural polymers collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and elastin are promising candidate materials for heart valve tissue engineering scaffolds. This work produced trilayer scaffolds that resembled the layered structures of the extracellular matrices of native heart valves. The scaffolds showed anisotropic bending moduli (in both dry and hydrated statuses) depending on the loading directions (lower in the With Curvature direction than in the Against Curvature direction), which mimicked the characteristic behavior of the native heart valves. The interactions between cardiosphere‐derived cells and the scaffolds were characterized by multiphoton microscopy, and relatively similar cell distributions were observed on different layers (a cell density of 3,000–4,000 mm−3 and a migration depth of 0.3–0.4 mm). The trilayer scaffold has represented a forwarding step from the previous studies, in attempting to better replicate a native heart valve structurally, mechanically, and biologically.
Cabergoline: a review of its use in the inhibition of lactation for women living with HIV
Authors: Tulloch Karen J , Dodin Philippe , Tremblay‐Racine Fannie , Elwood Chelsea , Money Deborah , Boucoiran Isabelle
Published: June 2019

Introduction

In developed countries, breastfeeding is not recommended for women living with human immunodeficiency virus (WLWH). However, lactation symptoms can be distressing for women who choose not to breastfeed. There is currently no universal guideline on the most appropriate options for prevention or reduction of lactation symptoms amongst WLWH. This review describes the evidence base for using cabergoline, a dopaminergic agonist, for the post‐partum inhibition of lactation for WLWH.

Methods

A scoping review of post‐partum pharmaceutical lactation inhibition specific for WLWH was conducted using searches in PubMed, Medline Ovid, EBM Reviews Ovid, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus until 2019. A narrative review of cabergoline pharmacologic properties, therapeutic efficacy, tolerability data and drug interaction data relevant to lactation inhibition was then conducted.

Results and discussion

Among 1366 articles, the scoping review identified 13 relevant publications. Eight guidelines providing guidance regarding lactation inhibition for WLWH and two surveys of medical practice on this topic in UK have been published. Three studies have evaluated the use of pharmaceutical agents in WLWH. Two of these studies evaluated cabergoline and reported it to be an effective method of lactation inhibition in this population. The third study evaluated ethinyl estradiol and bromocriptine use and showed poor efficacy. Cabergoline is a long‐acting dopamine D2 agonist and ergot derivative that inhibits prolactin secretion and suppresses physiologic lactation when given as a single oral dose of 1 mg after delivery. Cabergoline is at least as effective as bromocriptine for lactation inhibition with success rates between 78% and 100%. Transient, mild to moderate adverse events to cabergoline are described in clinical trials. Few drug interactions exist as cabergoline is neither a substrate nor an inducer/inhibitor of hepatic cytochrome P450 isoenzymes. There are no reported clinically significant drug–drug interactions between cabergoline and any antiretroviral medications including protease inhibitors.

Conclusions

Cabergoline is a safe and effective pharmacologic option for the prevention of physiological lactation and associated physical symptoms in non‐breastfeeding women. Future studies should focus on its safety, efficacy and acceptability among WLWH.
Rapid detection of pesticides in honey by solid‐phase micro‐extraction coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Choi Yi‐Ching , Ng Tsz‐Tsun , Hu Bin , Li Rong , Yao Zhong‐Ping
Published: June 2019

Detection of pesticide residues in food samples is important for safeguarding food quality and safety. Conventional approaches for detection of pesticides in food samples typically involve labour‐intensive and time‐consuming sample pretreatment and chromatographic separation. In this study, solid phase micro‐extraction fibres were used to rapidly extract and enrich pesticides in honey, a popular agricultural product with complex matrix, and then directly coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for qualitative and quantitative analysis. Three pesticides, ie, atrazine, benalaxyl, and pirimicarb, were investigated using the technique and their analytical performances were evaluated. The limits of detection and limits of quantitation of all the three pesticides could fulfil the cut‐off values of the international standard. Linear calibration curves were constructed with good R2 coefficients, and the accuracy and precision were in acceptable ranges for all the pesticides. The analysis time is much reduced, with only minimum sample preparation and no chromatographic separation involved. The technique is simple and easy to set up, and can be extended for analysis of other analytes and sample systems.
Climate trends in the East Antilles Islands
Authors: Jury Mark R. , Bernard Didier
Published: June 2019

This paper analyzes climate trends in satellite‐blended model reanalyses for the east Antilles islands of Guadeloupe, Dominica and Martinique (14–17°N, 62.5–60.5°W). Trends are studied for the dry winter (JFM) and wet summer (JAS) seasons, for parameters including: aerosol profile, tropospheric NO2 concentration, rainfall and hydrology, outgoing longwave radiation, potential evaporation, sea level, air and sea temperature and salinity in the upper ocean. Climate change emerges in the form of 2–4 and 6–8‐year surges in near‐surface temperature and mid‐tropospheric subsidence. While near‐surface specific humidity exhibits a rising trend especially in summer, the mid‐troposphere is drying. Coastal zones show little trend in rainfall, but cloud forests on the volcanic slopes are getting wetter. Faster rising trends are noted for sea surface height, and for sea temperatures in low salinity zones that affect tropical cyclone intensification. This work quantifies the spatial and temporal nature of climate variability in the east Antilles islands of Guadeloupe, Dominica and Martinique and advocates for increasing integration of mesoscale analysis into studies on local socio‐economic vulnerability.
Saturable Absorption in 2D Nanomaterials and Related Photonic Devices
Authors: Wang Gaozhong , Baker‐Murray Aidan A. , Blau Werner J.
Published: June 2019

Wide‐spectral saturable absorption (SA) has been experimentally demonstrated in two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterials with outstanding performance, such as low saturation intensity, deep modulation depth, and fast recovery time of excited carriers. Hence, 2D nanomaterials can be utilized as saturable absorbers for mode‐locking or Q‐switching to generate laser pulses with short duration and high repetition rate. Here, the SA properties of graphene, layered transition metal dichalcogenides, Group‐V elements, and other 2D nanomaterials are reviewed by summarizing their slow‐ or fast‐ saturable absorption behavior using the modified Frantz–Nodvik model or the steady‐state solution of Hercher's rate equations. The dependence of SA in 2D nanomaterials on excitation wavelength, linear absorption coefficient, and pulse duration is also explained. Finally, the applications of these 2D nanomaterials in a range of pulsed lasers are summarized.
Realization of Perovskite‐Nanowire‐Based Plasmonic Lasers Capable of Mode Modulation
Authors: Ren Kuankuan , Wang Jian , Chen Shaoqiang , Yang Qingxin , Tian Jiao , Yu Haichao , Sun Mingfei , Zhu Xiaojun , Yue Shizhong , Sun Yang , Liu Kong , Azam Muhammad , Wang Zhijie , Jin Peng , Qu Shengchun , Wang Zhanguo
Published: June 2019

Manipulating stimulated‐emission processes and overcoming the ohmic loss of metals in plasmonic lasers are of significance for the according applications in biological sensors, data storage, photolithography, and optical communications. Herein, through utilizing an electrochemical‐assisted growth method for high‐quality perovskite nanowires, plasmonic lasers based on the structure of metal/dielectric layer/perovskite nanowires are constructed. The plasmonic lasers demonstrate a threshold of 62 µJ cm−2, a high quality factor of Q ≈ 655, and a fast lasing decay time of 1.6 ps. Interestingly, the plasmonic lasers present an attractive capability in transformation from single mode to multiple modes just by adjusting the pumping energy. In addition to the broad stoichiometry‐dependent tunability of the perovskite materials, the proposed plasmonic lasers have great promise in real applications.
Modulation of Conformational Preferences of Heteroaromatic Ethers and Amides through Protonation and Ionization: Charge Effect
Authors: Dai Wenshuai , Zhang Zhe , Du Yikui
Published: June 2019

Multiple approaches reveal the strong effects of a positive charge introduced by protonation or ionization on the conformation of o‐heteroaromatic ethers and amides. The ethers and amides containing an ortho‐N heteroatom are syn‐preferring while those containing an ortho‐O or ortho‐S heteroatom are mostly anti‐preferring. However, for all the monocyclic o‐heteroaromatic ethers and amides, the protonated ones are all anti‐preferring while the ionized ones are all syn‐preferring. Interestingly, although both the protonation and ionization introduce a positive charge, they have such different effects on molecular conformation, very informative for understanding the origin of conformational preferences. Detailed analysis shows that the population of the introduced positive charge dictates the conformational preferences via electrostatic and orbital interactions. Compared to ortho‐heteroatoms, meta‐heteroatoms have weaker effect on conformational preference. Achieved by complete inductive method, the regularity of conformational preferences and switching provides easy ways to modulate conformers (by pH or redox), and makes this kind of ether or amide bond a conformational hinge applicable to design of functional molecules (drugs and materials) and modulation of molecular biological processes.
Response of Chiral Auxetic Composite Sandwich Panel to Fragment Simulating Projectile Impact
Authors: Novak Nejc , Vesenjak Matej , Kennedy Gregory , Thadhani Naresh , Ren Zoran
Published: June 2019

The chiral auxetic cellular structures are fabricated using SEBM (selective electron beam melting) method and tested under compressive loading. The results of experimental testing are used for validation of the computational model in LS‐DYNA. Furthermore, ballistic velocity and deformation behaviour of monolithic aluminium (Al 7075‐T651) and titanium (Ti‐Gr.37) cover plates of composite sandwich panels are experimentally evaluated using a gas gun setup and fragment simulating projectile (FSP). The experimental results are used for validation of computational model of cover plates, which is further used for development of computational model of auxetic composite sandwich panel. It is shown that by using the auxetic sandwich panel, the ballistic performance is enhanced in comparison to the monolithic cover plates.
Minimal structural perturbations for controllability of a networked system: Complexities and approximations
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Zhou Tong
Published: June 2019

Link additions/deletions and actuator/sensor failures are common structural perturbations for real networked systems. In this paper, we consider three related problems on determining the minimal cost structural perturbations, including link additions, link deletions, and input deletions to make a networked system structurally controllable/uncontrollable, mainly focusing on their computational complexities and approximations. Formally, given a structured system, it is proven that (i) it is NP‐hard to add the minimal cost of links, including links among state variables (ie, state links) and links from the existing inputs to state variables (ie, input links), from a given set of links to make the system structurally controllable; (ii) it is NP‐hard to determine the minimal cost of links whose deletions deteriorate structural controllability of the system, even when the removable links are restricted in either the input links or the state links. It is also proven that determining the minimal cost of inputs whose deletions cause structural uncontrollability is strongly NP‐hard even with dedicated input structure. Furthermore, some fundamental approximation results for these problems are established. These results may serve an answer to the general hardness and approximability of optimally designing (modifying) a structurally controllable network topology and of measuring controllability robustness against link/input failures. Additionally, several polynomial‐time tractable cases of the aforementioned problems are also identified.
Small satellites and CubeSats: Survey of structures, architectures, and protocols
Authors: Davoli Franco , Kourogiorgas Charilaos , Marchese Mario , Panagopoulos Athanasios , Patrone Fabio
Published: June 2019

The space environment is still challenging but is becoming more and more attractive for an increasing number of entities. In the second half of the 20th century, a huge amount of funds was required to build satellites and gain access to space. Nowadays, it is no longer so. The advancement of technologies allows producing very small hardware components able to survive the strict conditions of the outer space. Consequently, small satellites can be designed for a wide set of missions keeping low design times, production costs, and deployment costs. One widely used type of small satellite is the CubeSat, whose different aspects are surveyed in the following: mission goals, hardware subsystems and components, possible network topologies, channel models, and suitable communication protocols. We also show some future challenges related to the employment of CubeSat networks.
Improving sustainable development and firm performance in emerging economies by implementing green supply chain activities
Authors: Jawaad Mehwish , Zafar Sohail
Published: June 2019

The concept of green supply chain management (GrSCM) and sustainable development is still thought to be in the initial phases in the academic and research arena especially in Asian emerging economies. This study adopts a more holistic approach toward investigating the influential power of GrSCM on firm performance measures with a mediating role of investment recovery and competitiveness. The current study serves as an initiative to identify if the association between investment recovery and firm performance measures is mediated by competitiveness. Data were collected from 272, ISO (14001) certified textile firms based in Pakistan, and the theoretical model was assessed using partial least square structural equation modeling. Underpinning the resource dependence theory, the statistical results reveal that GrSCM practices positively impact firm performances whereas investment recovery acts as a strong mediator between intraorganizational green activities and company's performance.
Causal relationships between carbon dioxide emissions and economic factors: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Mei Ling , Wang Wei , Du Shen Yue , Li Cun Fang , He Zhengxia
Published: June 2019

This study investigates the causal relationship between carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and economic factors in Chinese provinces. Then, this study undertakes a comparative analysis of the eastern, central, and western provinces using a vector autoregressive model and panel data for 1997–2015. The results show there is unidirectional causality from per capita gross domestic product (GDP) to CO2 emissions in eastern and central provinces. Meanwhile, there is unidirectional causality from CO2 emissions to GDP per capita in western provinces. There is unidirectional causality between CO2 emissions to foreign direct investment in central and western provinces but no impact in eastern provinces. However, there is unidirectional causality between CO2 emissions to export volume only in eastern provinces. Based on the results, this study concludes that to reduce CO2 emissions, China should not only implement strict laws and regulations but should also advocate green investment, technological innovation, development of a circular economy, and sustainable development.
Optimizing the Surface Properties of MgO Nanoparticles Towards the Transesterification of Glycerol to Glycerol Carbonate
Authors: Manikandan Marimuthu , Sangeetha Palanivelu
Published: June 2019

MgO nanoparticles (NPs) were successfully fabricated by a facile, inexpensive and green synthesis protocol using soluble starch as a green bio‐template. The influence of calcination temperature on its textural properties and catalytic efficiency has been investigated in detail. The enhancement of MgO NPs crystallinity by increasing the calcination temperature is found from X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses. N2‐sorption studies and CO2‐temperature programmed desorption (TPD) measurements revealed that the MgO NPs calcined at 500 °C have superior textural properties and strong surface basicity. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis conferred that the MgO‐500 NPs furnished the optimized surface Lewis sites, consequently outperforms better transesterification activity. The fabricated MgO‐500 NPs exhibited an excellent catalytic activity towards the efficient conversion of glycerol to glycerol carbonate (GC) with more than 93% selectivity. The intelligibility of the adopted synthesis is eco‐benign and wide utility as a solid base catalyst for several organic transformations.
Fe‐doped CoNi0.5P Hierarchical Arrays as Efficient Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Overall Water Splitting: Evolution of Morphology and Coordination of Catalytic Performance
Authors: Zhang Wenzhuo , Chen Guangyi , Zhao Jian , Liang Jicai , Liu Guangfei , Ji Baowei , Sun Lifeng
Published: June 2019

Design and synthesis of bifunctional electrocatalysts with high efficient and durability for electrolytic water splitting still remain an important matter for the research of renewable energy systems. Herein, a series of CoNi0.5FexP/CC (x=0, 0.08, 0.125, 0.25, 0.5) catalysts have been successfully prepared by a simple hydrothermal and phosphorization process, and directly used as bifunctional electrocatalysts for OER and HER. Benefiting from the suitable Fe element doping content and novel nanowire‐nanosheet co‐existent hierarchical nanostructure, the optimal CoNi0.5Fe0.125P/CC catalyst shows an outstanding bifunctional catalytic performance, with 344 mV low overpotential to reach at 100 mA cm−2 during OER process and 74 mV overpotential to reach at 10 mA cm−2 during HER process. The water electrolysis device employing CoNi0.5Fe0.125P/CC as cathode and anode at the same time, it only requires as low as 1.61 V of voltage to achieve the current density of 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline solution, implying a great practical application value of this novel hierarchical nanostructured material for overall water splitting.
Ring Opening Reaction of 3,4‐Dihydro‐2H‐1,3‐Benzoxazine with Amines at Room Temperature
Authors: Zong Jiapeng , Ran Qichao
Published: June 2019

The ring‐opening reaction of p‐cresol‐based 1,3‐benzoxazine with amine at room temperature was investigated in different solvents. Results show that the reactions proceeded easily in protic solvents, but no reaction occurred in aprotic solvents. For different amines involved in the reactions, both primary and secondary amines can participate in the reaction with benzoxazine, while tertiary amines would hinder the progress of the nucleophilic reaction. The mechanism study demonstrated the feasibility of polymerization of the benzoxazine with amines at room temperature. Moreover, the crosslinking between bifunctional benzoxazine and diamine was realized at room temperature, and the polymer can be obtained.
Dark‐Exciton‐Mediated Fano Resonance from a Single Gold Nanostructure on Monolayer WS2 at Room Temperature
Authors: Wang Mingsong , Wu Zilong , Krasnok Alex , Zhang Tianyi , Liu Mingzu , Liu He , Scarabelli Leonardo , Fang Jie , Liz‐Marzán Luis M. , Terrones Mauricio , Alù Andrea , Zheng Yuebing
Published: June 2019

Strong spatial confinement and highly reduced dielectric screening provide monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides with strong many‐body effects, thereby possessing optically forbidden excitonic states (i.e., dark excitons) at room temperature. Herein, the interaction of surface plasmons with dark excitons in hybrid systems consisting of stacked gold nanotriangles and monolayer WS2 is explored. A narrow Fano resonance is observed when the hybrid system is surrounded by water, and the narrowing of the spectral Fano linewidth is attributed to the plasmon‐enhanced decay of dark K‐K excitons. These results reveal that dark excitons in monolayer WS2 can strongly modify Fano resonances in hybrid plasmon–exciton systems and can be harnessed for novel optical sensors and active nanophotonic devices.
Long‐Range Ordered Crystals of 3D Inorganic–Organic Heterojunctions via Colloidal Lithography
Authors: Kandjani Ahmad Esmaielzadeh , Ramanathan Rajesh , Zabara Mahsa , Sabri Ylias M. , Bhargava Suresh K. , Bansal Vipul
Published: June 2019

Colloidal lithography (CL) has evolved as an alternative to conventional photo‐ and electron‐beam lithography to pattern surfaces with nanometer range resolution. As CL offers substrate‐independent precise positioning and patterning of nanomaterials as long‐range ordered crystals, this has seen new opportunities in optoelectronics. Herein, the scope of CL is expanded to fabricate for the first time, 3D organic–inorganic heterojunction photocatalysts with well‐controlled spacing and coverage density. To achieve this, monodisperse polystyrene (PS) beads of different sizes are used as colloidal masks on a ZnO substrate. Electron beam assisted silver deposition onto these PS masks, and subsequent removal of PS lead to the formation of patterns of silver nanostars on the ZnO thin film. The solid–vapor reaction of silver nanostars with a metal‐coordinating charge‐transfer complex of 7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) allows spontaneous conversion of Ag nanostars to the large aspect ratio nanowires of metal–organic AgTCNQ semiconductors. This strategy, combining the strengths of CL with high electron affinity of TCNQ molecules allows facile fabrication of long‐range patterns of the heterojunctions of organic (AgTCNQ) and inorganic (ZnO) semiconductors. These surface‐supported 3D heterojunctions act as outstanding photocatalysts through their ability to efficiently separate the electron–hole pairs and thus increasing the electron–hole life times.
Molecular‐Scale Modeling and Multiscale Experiments on the Elastic Properties of HR‐2 Steel Affected by Hydrogen
Authors: Zhang Yuanzhang , Yin Yihui , Zhao Fengpeng , Deng Kunxiu , Feng Jie , Li Jian , Yan Guanyun
Published: June 2019

Austenitic stainless steel is used in hydrogen containers. The hydrogen embrittlement has drawn much attention. In this paper, in situ measurement by neutron stress spectrometer and neutron scattering is carried out during quasi‐static tensile tests. Based on the information at the micro‐ and macro‐scale obtained through these measurements, a molecular‐scale simulation system with different numbers of grain boundaries is established. With the Tersoff potential parameters fitted by Kuopanportti, the change rates of the elastic modulus and yield limit of the steel with different concentrations of hydrogen can be calculated.
Effect of Different Heat Exchange Zones on Microstructure and Properties of Ultra‐Heavy Steel Plate During Jet Quenching
Authors: Han Jun , Fu Tianliang , Wang Zhaodong , Wang Guodong
Published: June 2019

The temperature drop curves of an ultra‐heavy plate with a thickness of 137 mm after quenching are measured at different positions using a jet quenching equipment and a multi‐channel steel plate temperature recorder. The effect of the jet impact (Z1), intersection interference (Z2), and transverse flow (Z3) heat transfer zones on the temperature gradient of an ultra‐heavy steel plate during jet quenching was investigated. The corresponding relationships and interaction mechanisms between cooling rate, microstructure, and mechanical properties during jet quenching are studied. The results indicate that Z2 and Z3 had a greater influence on temperature gradient and microstructure evolution, and Z1 and Z2 had a greater influence on the cooling rate and mechanical properties. The experimental results have guiding significance for the development of new quenching equipment for ultra‐heavy steel plates and their industrial application.
The Incorporation of Extracellular Vesicles from Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Into CD34+ Cells Increases Their Clonogenic Capacity and Bone Marrow Lodging Ability
Authors: Preciado Silvia , Muntión Sandra , Corchete Luis A. , Ramos Teresa L. , Torre Ana G. , Osugui Lika , Rico Ana , Espinosa-Lara Natalia , Gastaca Irene , Díez-Campelo María , Cañizo Consuelo , Sánchez-Guijo Fermín
Published: June 2019

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) may exert their functions by the release of extracellular vesicles (EV). Our aim was to analyze changes induced in CD34+ cells after the incorporation of MSC-EV. MSC-EV were characterized by flow cytometry (FC), Western blot, electron microscopy, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. EV incorporation into CD34+ cells was confirmed by FC and confocal microscopy, and then reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and arrays were performed in modified CD34+ cells. Apoptosis and cell cycle were also evaluated by FC, phosphorylation of signal activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) by WES Simple, and clonal growth by clonogenic assays. Human engraftment was analyzed 4 weeks after CD34+ cell transplantation in nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficient mice. Our results showed that MSC-EV incorporation induced a downregulation of proapoptotic genes, an overexpression of genes involved in colony formation, and an activation of the Janus kinase (JAK)-STAT pathway in CD34+ cells. A significant decrease in apoptosis and an increased CD44 expression were confirmed by FC, and increased levels of phospho-STAT5 were confirmed by WES Simple in CD34+ cells with MSC-EV. In addition, these cells displayed a higher colony-forming unit granulocyte/macrophage clonogenic potential. Finally, the in vivo bone marrow lodging ability of human CD34+ cells with MSC-EV was significantly increased in the injected femurs. In summary, the incorporation of MSC-EV induces genomic and functional changes in CD34+ cells, increasing their clonogenic capacity and their bone marrow lodging ability. Stem Cells  2019;37:1357–1368
Optische Schnittstellen
Authors: Trützschler A. , Bartlitz C. , Kohl M. , Voigtländer C. , Lindner E. , Bergner K. , Flämmich M. , Bergner U.
Published: June 2019

Optical interfaces: Viewing into the vacuum

The requirements concerning in‐vacuum process diagnostics are more and more challenging. On the one hand, the setup itself has to be decoupled from the process to avoid any external impact on the process. On the other hand, the process parameters have to be in‐situ characterized and controlled by an in‐vacuum monitoring system. In the vicinity of these two contradictive requirements optical fiber applications gain more and more impact, since optical fibers cover several advantages: high transmission signal, inherent immunity against external electromagnetic forces, high durability and high mechanical as well as optical flexibility. The focus of the contribution is a new in‐vacuum optical temperature sensor combined with high‐temperature fiber optical feedthroughs. The sensor based on fiber Bragg gratings (FBG) in the optical fiber, which are extremely sensitive to temperature variations. In a first case study, the application of FBG with the feedthrough as an in‐vacuum optical temperature sensor is demonstrated. Thus an optical fiber containing a bunch of several FBG becomes a compact, robust, and flexible in‐vacuum network of local temperature sensors. Each individual sensor captures temperature variations over a signal path that is several km long with a remarkable accuracy up to 0.1 K and with speed of light.
How historical trends in Florida all‐citrus production correlate with devastating hurricane and freeze events
Authors: Ferrarezi Rhuanito Soranz , Rodriguez Kevin , Sharp David
Published: June 2019

Florida's Citrus Belt is uniquely situated at the crossroads of tropical storms and hurricanes as they track across the North Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, towards the state of Florida. Our objective here is to consider the constraining effects of cold air outbreaks in combination with landfalling hurricanes on citrus production across Florida's Citrus Belt. A simple statistical box and whisker plot analysis was used to determine what measures of decline in all‐citrus production could be deemed significant, highly significant, and within the bounds of normal season‐to‐season changes. Although hazardous weather is just one of many factors that have contributed to the overall decline in citrus production in Florida, it is one of the most influential. The constraining effects of both cold air outbreaks and tropical systems are worthy of the industry's attention. Historical data show that individual events of this nature can have significant effects, but when considered in combination across seasons, their occurrences reshape the borders of Florida's Citrus Belt and the Indian River District. Although local meteorologists are unsure as to whether events with such significant effects will occur this season, they are certain that extreme weather events like these will be observed again at some point in the future. Growers must be ready to withstand such destructive phenomena. Planning and preparation remain as crucial as ever.
Starobinsky-like inflation and soft-SUSY breaking
Authors: King Stephen F. , Perdomo Elena
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We study a version of Starobinsky-like inflation in no-scale supergravity (SUGRA) where a Polonyi term in the hidden sector breaks supersymmetry (SUSY) after inflation, providing a link between the gravitino mass and inflation. We extend the theory to the visible sector and calculate the soft-SUSY breaking parameters depending on the modular weights in the superpotential and choice of Kähler potential. We are led to either no-scale SUGRA or pure gravity mediated SUSY breaking patterns, but with inflationary constraints on the Polonyi term setting a strict upper bound on the gravitino mass m
3/2
< 103 TeV. Since gaugino masses are significantly lighter than m
3/2, this suggests that SUSY may be discovered at the LHC or FCC.
Symmetric superfluids
Authors: Pajer Enrico , Stefanyszyn David
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We present a complete classification of symmetric superfluids, namely shift-symmetric and Poincaré invariant scalar field theories that have an enlarged set of classically conserved currents at leading order in derivatives. These theories arise in the decoupling limit of the effective field theory of shift-symmetric, single-clock cosmologies and our results pick out all models with couplings fixed by additional symmetry. Remarkably, in D ≥ 2 spacetime dimensions there are only two possibilities: the Dirac-Born-Infeld theory and Scaling Superfluids with Lagrangian (−∂
μ

ϕ∂
μ

ϕ)
α
, for some real α. The scaling symmetry present for any α is further enhanced to the full conformal group only for α = D/2, and to infinitely many additional generators for the cuscuton, namely α = 1/2. We discuss the stability of Scaling Superfluids and point out that all coupling constants are determined by the speed of sound.
The full space of BPS multicenter states with pure D-brane charges
Authors: Heidmann Pierre , Mondal Swapnamay
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We investigate the space of BPS states in type IIA string theory on a T6 wrapped by one D6 brane and three D2 branes wrapping three disjoint 2-tori. This system of branes has 12 ground states. We show that these 12 states are all recovered as Coulomb branch BPS multicenter bound states, in which each center preserves 16 supercharges. Moreover, we show that these multicenter solutions can only exist with zero angular momentum, supporting the conjecture that all black hole microstates have zero angular momentum. For large charges, they might describe “near-horizon limit” of fuzzballs.
Matching for FCNC effects in the flavour-symmetric SMEFT
Authors: Hurth Tobias , Renner Sophie , Shepherd William
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We calculate the complete tree and one-loop matching of the dimension-six Standard Model Effective Field Theory (SMEFT) with unbroken U(3)5 flavour symmetry to the operators of the Weak Effective Theory (WET) which are responsible for flavour changing neutral current effects among down-type quarks. We also explicitly calculate the effects of SMEFT corrections to input observables on the WET Wilson coefficients, a necessary step on the way to a well-defined, complete prediction. These results will enable high-precision flavour data to be incorporated into global fits of the SMEFT at high energies, where the flavour symmetry assumption is widespread.
The quantum theory of Chern-Simons supergravity
Authors: Andrianopoli L. , Cerchiai B. L. , Grassi P. A. , Trigiante M.
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We consider AdS
3
N-extended Chern-Simons supergravity (à la Achucarro-Townsend) and we study its gauge symmetries. We promote those gauge symmetries to a BRST symmetry and we perform its quantization by choosing suitable gauge-fixings. The resulting quantum theories have different features which we discuss in the present work. In particular, we show that a special choice of the gauge-fixing correctly reproduces the Ansatz by Alvarez, Valenzuela and Zanelli for the graphene fermion.
Scattering equations: from projective spaces to tropical grassmannians
Authors: Cachazo Freddy , Early Nick , Guevara Alfredo , Mizera Sebastian
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We introduce a natural generalization of the scattering equations, which connect the space of Mandelstam invariants to that of points on ℂℙ1, to higher-dimensional projective spaces ℂℙ
k − 1. The standard, k = 2 Mandelstam invariants, s

ab
, are generalized to completely symmetric tensors

$$ {\mathrm{s}}_{a_1{a}_2\dots {a}_k} $$

s

a
1

a
2

…

a
k

subject to a ‘massless’ condition

$$ {\mathrm{s}}_{a_1{a}_2\dots {a}_{k-2}bb}=0 $$

s

a
1

a
2

…

a

k
−
2

b
b

=
0

and to ‘momentum conservation’. The scattering equations are obtained by constructing a potential function and computing its critical points. We mainly concentrate on the k = 3 case: study solutions and define the generalization of biadjoint scalar amplitudes. We compute all ‘biadjoint amplitudes’ for (k, n) = (3, 6) and find a direct connection to the tropical Grassmannian. This leads to the notion of k = 3 Feynman diagrams. We also find a concrete realization of the new kinematic spaces, which coincides with the spinor-helicity formalism for k = 2, and provides analytic solutions analogous to the MHV ones.
What impact does equity crowdfunding have on SME innovation and growth? An empirical study
Authors: Eldridge Derek , Nisar Tahir M. , Torchia Mariateresa
Published: June 2019

We examine the impact of equity crowdfunding on innovation and growth opportunity within small- and medium-sized enterprises. While previous studies have generally focused on the realm of crowdfunding and how it can close the financing gap for small firms, recent academic attention has turned toward assessing the outcome of equity crowdfunding, measured in terms of successes (or failures) in post-campaign firm financing. Using data from Fame BVD for small firms operating in the UK, we investigate whether equity crowdfunding can act as a catalyst for innovation and growth. The findings show that crowdfunding does not have a significant influence on innovation in small firms, thereby disproving the proposition that the use of crowdfunding leads to an increase in innovation. Nonetheless, crowdfunding does have an impact on the growth opportunity of small firms, with a strong positive correlation. Our further tests on return on assets models and propensity score and controlled firm-matching models show a positive impact of crowdfunding on small firms’ performance. We also discuss the implications of our findings for small firms’ use of equity crowdfunding for business growth opportunities.
Osteointegration in Compliant Self-Adjusting Compression Fixation Shown by Backscatter Electron Microscopy: A Case Report
Authors: Christ Alexander B. , Baral Elexis , Wright Timothy M. , Healey John H.
Published: June 2019

Compliant self-adjusting compression implants are a novel approach to increase the durability of megaprosthesis fixation. However, there is no report of current implant designs that documents the bone-prosthetic interface of this implant. A well-fixed compliant, self-adjusting distal femoral replacement was retrieved from a patient undergoing revision unrelated to fixation. The prosthesis-bone interface was preserved, embedded in poly(methyl methacrylate), and sectioned into 2–4-mm slices. Slices were then imaged using backscatter electron microscopy, and ongrowth and ingrowth were quantified using imaging software. The average percentage of bony ongrowth from five successive sections was 52.5%, and the average percentage of ingrowth into the porous titanium surface was 13.5%. We found that bone ongrowth on the cortex between anchor plug and spindle averages more than 50% and up to 70% depending upon the slice examined with backscatter electron microscopy. Bone ingrowth was consistently around 13% on every slice examined. This is a new finding compared with prior spindle designs, likely due to the addition of hydroxyapatite-coated porous metal titanium surface on the spindle. This report is an important step in understanding the mechanism of bony fixation generated by this implant and supports its increased use in oncological and complex reconstructive situations.
The importance of big data
Authors: Nickels Liz
Published: June 2019

A 3D printing software company based in the US suggests that a data-driven approach to additive manufacturing (AM) is the way forward to revolutionize this new technology.
Large quantity composite part production makes further progress
Authors: Holmes Mark
Published: June 2019

Injection molding machine manufacturers are looking to bring their expertise of large quantity part production to the composite industry.
II.—Microscopic Structure of Irish Granites
Authors: Hull Edward
Published: June 2019

This granite of Ballyknockan belongs to the great mass of the South-east of Ireland, which extends from Booterstown, near Dublin, to Poulmounty in Co. Carlow.
V.—Descriptions of New Fossils from the Devonian Formation of Canada West
Authors: Nicholson H. Alleyne
Published: June 2019

Having been engaged for some time in collecting and studying the organic remains of the Corniferous Limestone and Hamilton formation of the western portion of the Province of Ontario, I propose, in the present communication, to describe some of the new species which have come under my notice, these being chiefly referable to the groups of the Corals and the Polyzoa. A portion of the new material which I have collected I have already described in the “Annals of Natural History” and in the “Canadian Naturalist,” and a portion still remains for more extended examination. Some of the species here described, also, will be fully illustrated in the detailed Report on the Devonian Fossils of Western Canada, which I am now preparing for the Government of the Province of Ontario. Under any circumstances, the Corniferous and Hamilton deposits of Western Canada are so richly fossiliferous, that more extensive investigations than I have been able to carry out would certainly result in the bringing to light of numerous new forms of animal life. The total number of species comprised in my collections from these formations amounts to about one hundred and sixty or seventy, of which between thirty and forty are apparently new; but in the case of some of these the materials at present in my hands are not sufficient for description. Of this number no less than seventy-five belong to the corals, about forty are Braohiopods, and the remainder are distributed amongst the Polyzoa, Gasteropoda, Lamellibranchiata, Annelida, Trilobita, and Crinoidea.
V.—The Island of South Georgia
Authors: Reade T. Mellard
Published: June 2019

The German Expedition to South Georgia has brought back the interesting information that this island, situated in the Antarctic Ocean, Lat. 54° S., Long. 37° W., is composed of clay-slate. Not only the part the members of the expedition were able to inspect was found to be composed of this slate-rock, but the glaciers brought down the same rock from the central portion of the island. In some places the slate was interspersed with varieties of quartz. No metals were found, but the rock contained a little iron, a quantity insufficient to affect the magnetic needle.
Further Remarks on the Valuation of Reversionary Life Interests
Authors: Sprague T.B.
Published: June 2019

Nineteen years ago, in November 1868, Mr. Bailey communicated to the Institute (J.I.A., xiv, 437) some figures which showed in a very striking manner, the wide differences of opinion which formerly prevailed among actuaries, as to the terms upon which advances should he made upon the security of reversionary life interests. In the discussion which followed the reading of my paper “On the Valuation of Reversionary Life Interests”, he is reported to have said: “As showing the expediency of further “discussing the subject, he instanced a case which was submitted “several years ago to five well known actuaries, where the “redemption money for the contingent annuity was fixed hy A “at £282,000, by B at £237,000, by C at £184,000, by D at “£154,000, and by E at £47,000.” The differences here shown are certainly very remarkable, and not very creditable to the profession ; but, judging from certain figures which have lately come under my notice, I am inclined to think that the opinions of actuaries do not now differ so widely as formerly.
On the Probability that a Marriage entered into by a Man of any Age, will be Fruitful
Authors: Sprague Thomas Bond
Published: June 2019

In a paper which I read before the Society in 1879, I gave the results of an investigation I had made with the object of determining the probability, that a man marrying at any age over 40, will, or will not, have children; and I have now extended the same enquiry to men of all ages. The statistics upon which my former conclusions rested, related to 339 marriages entered into by peers and their near relations above the age of 40, and were extracted from Lodge's Peerage for the year 1871. For all statistical enquiries this work is, in my opinion, greatly preferable to any of the other works that give records of the British Peerage. The principal ground for this opinion is, that Lodge usually gives the dates of birth of the daughters of each family, as well as those of the sons; whereas other Peerages generally omit those dates, and place the names of the daughters (without any dates) after the names of the sons, so that it is impossible to tell whether they are older or younger than their brothers. In the case of a few families this practice is also adopted in Lodge, presumably by special desire of the head of the family; and it is a matter of regret that this, together with other circumstances to be presently mentioned, diminishes the value of the book for statistical purposes.
An Examination of the Published Experience of several Life Offices and Groups of Life Offices, for the purpose of determining with the greatest accuracy obtainable—(1) the Rate of Mortality among recently-selected Lives; (2) the Rate at which that Mortality increases during the Ten Years after Insurance; and (3) whether such Rate of Increase depends upon the Rate of Discontinuance or not; with a general outline of the best methods to be pursued in the future collection and compilation of any Experience
Authors: Chatham James
Published: June 2019

Before proceeding to describe the mortality experiences made use of in this investigation, I will first of all discuss the various materials that have been used in investigations into the mortality among assured lives, the methods of arranging those materials in order to deduce the rate of mortality, and the method of graduation best adapted for the adjustment of the rate of mortality among recently-selected lives, pointing out the advantages and disadvantages of each, and stating which I have adopted. This will necessarily partake more or less of the nature of an historical sketch; but I think it will conduce to clearness, and will, I trust, prove interesting as well as instructive. I have also thought it desirable to state somewhat fully the information on which I have based my conclusions, in order that my readers may be in a position to exercise an independent judgment.