bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation study of osteometric techniques for sorting commingled human skeletal remains in archaeological samples
Authors: Bertsatos Andreas , Chovalopoulou Maria‐Eleni
Published: February 2019

The biological profile of human remains is fundamental for understanding the structure of past societies and their life histories. However, the assessment of the demographics of an assemblage is hindered when dealing with commingled burials. Consequently, methods for sorting commingled skeletons are essential in a bioarchaeological context. The aim of this study was to provide insight into osteometric sorting techniques when dealing with archaeological commingled skeletal remains. For the purposes of this research, Byrd and LeGarde's pair‐matching osteometric sorting and regression models, which use measurements created for fragmented bones, were tested on 61 adult individuals exhumed from single burial plots from five different Greek archaeological sites. The results showed that the regression models exhibit much lower rates of true positive results (18.2–67.6% and 4.8–71.7% for the left and right side, respectively) than the pair‐matching model (74.1–89.5%), whereas the rates of the false positive results are almost equivalent (approximately 20–35%). Therefore, the application of the pair‐matching osteometric sorting model can provide a set of potential matches in an archaeological context. However, it is essential to utilize other techniques as well, in order to verify the results.
Effects of a semi‐bio‐based triazine derivative on intumescent flame‐retardant polypropylene
Authors: Wang Xinjun , Wang Zongbao , Li Juan
Published: February 2019

A semi‐bio‐based synergist (N, N′, N″‐1, 3, 5‐triazine‐2, 4, 6‐triyltris‐glycine [TTG]) was prepared by using glycine and cyanuric chloride. The structure of TTG was characterized by 1H NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The TTG was applied in polypropylene (PP)/intumescent flame‐retardant compounds to improve its flame retardancy. The flame‐retardant properties of PP compounds were evaluated by limiting oxygen index and vertical burning tests (UL‐94). The results showed that 17 wt% intumescent flame‐retardant and 1 wt% TTG makes PP achieve the UL‐94 V‐0 rating without drippings, and the limiting oxygen index value is increased to 29.5 vol%. The thermal degradation behavior and char morphology of PP compounds were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated that TTG accelerates the formation of char layer, regulates the porous structure of char layer, and enhances its barrier property. Therefore, the temperatures of PP compound after two ignitions during the UL‐94 test are decreased significantly as shown in infrared thermal imaging. In addition, the combustion characteristics of PP compounds were investigated by cone calorimeter. The peak of heat release rate (PHRR) of PP compound is 67% reduced, and the tPHRR is delayed from 223 to 430 seconds, indicates that the combustion risk of PP compound is reduced.
Process–structure–property relationships of thermoformed woven carbon‐fiber‐reinforced polyether‐ether‐ketone composites
Authors: Zheng Bing , Li Maoyuan , Deng Tianzhengxiong , Zhou Helezi , Huang Zhigao , Zhou Huamin , Li Dequn
Published: February 2019

In this study, the process–structure–property relationships of thermoformed, woven, carbon fiber (CF)‐reinforced polyether‐ether‐ketone (PEEK) composites were investigated, and the associated mechanisms were systematically discussed. Woven CF/PEEK prepregs were prepared using an electrostatic powder coating technique, and composite laminates were fabricated via thermoforming, using four processing temperatures (360, 380, 400, and 420°C) and five holding pressures (1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 MPa), respectively. The macroscopic properties and microstructures of the composite laminates were analyzed using mechanical characterization, thermal characterization, and microscopic observations. The results show that the flexural properties of the woven CF/PEEK composite tended to initially improve and subsequently decline as the processing temperature and holding pressure were increased. They are primarily determined by several complex mechanisms, such as the matrix properties, void defects, and fiber/resin interaction. The interlaminar shear properties of the woven CF/PEEK maintain a similar trend as the temperatures increases from 360°C to 420°C, while it is substantially unchanged as the holding pressure increases from 1 to 9 MPa. They are primarily determined by the mechanisms, such as matrix properties, void defects, and interlayer adhesion. Finally, these mechanisms were systematically discussed. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3823–3834, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synergistic effect between different clays and plasticizer on the properties of PHBV nanocomposites
Authors: Brandolt Suelen D.F. , Daitx Tales S. , Mauler Raquel S. , Ornaghi Junior Heitor L. , Crespo Janaina S. , Carli Larissa N.
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the plasticizer triethyl citrate (TEC) combined with two different clays [unmodified bentonite (Bent) and halloysite (Hal)] on the morphology, crystallization behavior, and mechanical properties of poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV). The compositions were prepared with 3 wt% clay and 10 wt% TEC by melt processing. The addition of TEC resulted in a plasticized effect with 15°C lower glass transition temperature compared with the neat PHBV. An increase in the mechanical performance was achieved when clay and plasticizer were combined, and this improvement was dependent on the degree of dispersion of the nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. For the combination of Hal and TEC, which most affected the crystallization process of PHBV, the impact strength was improved by 135% without a significant loss in the elastic modulus of the material. The synergistic effect between the plasticizer and clay was responsible for these improvements, making this a viable alternative for extending the use of this polymer in various industrial applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3835–3843, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Long‐term persistence and adherence to blood pressure lowering agents among older Australians
Authors: Si Si , Ofori‐Asenso Richard , Briffa Tom , Sanfilippo Frank M. , Ilomaki Jenni , Qin XiWen , Tacey Mark , Reid Christopher M. , Liew Danny
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Poor adherence and persistence to blood pressure lowering (BPL) agents leads to increased risk of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to investigate the long‐term adherence, persistence, and re‐initiation of BPL agents among older Australians (aged ≥65 years).

Methods

We utilised the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme data covering a 10% random sample of Australians. We identified 31 088 older Australians (mean age, 75.4 years; 56% females) with newly initiated BPL therapy from 2008 to 2016. Adherence was assessed using the proportion of days covered (PDC) at 6‐month intervals. Discontinuation was defined as ≥90 days without BPL coverage. Cox regression was applied to compare the time till the first discontinuation of BPL agents across different BPL categories and among various subgroups.

Results

Over a mean follow‐up of 3.8 years, 40% to 70% of older Australians received a BPL agent discontinued it. The median time to discontinuation ranged from 159 to 373 days. Persistence with fixed dose combinations was the best (68%, 58%, and 41% at 6, 12, and 36 months respectively), followed by angiotensin II receptor blockers (69%, 58%, and 40%), beta‐blockers (67%, 54%, and 36%), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (62%, 51%, and 34%), calcium channel blockers (57%, 47%, and 31%), and diuretics (59%, 41%, and 23%). Among those who discontinued, 30% to 50% re‐initiated, with median days to re‐initiation ranging from 177 to 302. Only 21% to 42% of the study population maintained “good” adherence (PDC ≥ 0.8) to BPLs over 3 years.

Conclusion

Compliance to BPL agents is poor among older Australians. Interventions to enhance adherence and persistence to BPL agents are needed.
Effect of layered hydroxide salts, produced by two different methods, on the mechanical and thermal properties of poly(methyl methacrylate)
Authors: Nogueira Telma , Wypych Fernando , Mei Lucia , Lona Liliane
Published: February 2019

In this study, eight different layered hydroxide salts (LHSs) based on copper and zinc, intercalated with stearate, myristate, azelate, and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) monolaurate, were prepared. All the LHSs were produced according two different methods: co‐precipitation (direct method) and synthesis of zinc hydroxide nitrate (ZHN) and copper hydroxide nitrate (CHN) followed by exchange reaction (indirect method). The synthetic layered compounds were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). TGA results revealed that higher thermal stability was observed for the LHSs synthesized by direct method. The effects of all these LHSs on the thermal and mechanical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanocomposites were investigated. The LHSs percentage (wt%) in the PMMA was fixed at 1%. PMMA and PMMA nanocomposites were produced by in situ bulk polymerization. Compared to PMMA, all the nanocomposites exhibited higher thermal stability. The nanocomposite containing ZHN(stearate) by indirect method revealed both T50 (temperature at which a 50% loss of mass occurs) and T90 (temperature at which a 90% loss of mass occurs) 71°C higher than PMMA. Compared to PMMA, the nanocomposite with ZHN(PEG monolaurate) exhibited an increase of 14% in the elastic modulus, at 30°C. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1065–1074, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of Lidocaine on Viability and Gene Expression of Human Adipose–derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: An in vitro Study
Authors: Nie Hai , Kubrova Eva , Wu Tao , Denbeigh Janet M. , Hunt Christine , Dietz Allan B. , Smith Jay , Qu Wenchun , van Wijnen Andre J.
Published: February 2019

Objective

To assess the biologic effects of lidocaine on the viability, proliferation, and function of human adipose tissue–derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) in vitro.

Methods

Adipose‐derived MSCs from three donors were exposed to lidocaine at various dilutions (2 mg/mL to 8 mg/mL) and exposure times (0.5 to 4 hours). Cell number and viability, mitochondrial activity, and real‐time reverse‐transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) were analyzed at 0 (immediate effects) or 24 and 48 hours (recovery effects) after treatment with lidocaine.

Results

Trypan blue staining showed that increasing concentrations of lidocaine decreased the number of observable viable cells. 3‐[4,5,dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl]‐5‐[3‐carboxymethoxy‐phenyl]‐2‐[4‐sulfophenyl]‐2H‐tetrazolium (MTS) assays revealed a concentration‐ and time‐ dependent decline of mitochondrial activity and proliferative ability. Gene expression analysis by RT‐qPCR revealed that adipose‐derived MSCs exposed to lidocaine express robust levels of stress response/cytoprotective genes. However, higher concentrations of lidocaine caused a significant downregulation of these genes. No significant differences were observed in expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) markers COL1A1 and DCN except for COL3A1 (P < .05). Levels of messenger RNA (mRNA) for proliferation markers (CCNB2, HIST2H4A, P < .001) and MKI67 (P < .001) increased at 24 and 48 hours. Expression levels of several transcription factors— including SP1, PRRX1, and ATF1—were modulated in the same manner. MSC surface markers CD44 and CD105 demonstrated decreased expression immediately after treatment, but at 24 and 48 hours postexposure, the MSC markers showed no significant difference among groups.

Conclusion

Lidocaine is toxic to MSCs in a dose‐ and time‐ dependent manner. MSC exposure to high (4‐8 mg/mL) concentrations of lidocaine for prolonged periods can affect their biologic functions. Although the exposure time in vivo is short, it is essential to choose safe concentrations when applying lidocaine along with MSCs to avoid compromising the viability and potency of the stem cell therapy.
Clozapine in treatment‐resistant schizophrenia: a patient's journey
Authors: Korsavva Sofia , Dhadesugur Seshadri
Published: February 2019

Treatment‐resistant schizophrenia can be very difficult to manage and here the authors discuss the treatment challenges in such a patient who has a dual diagnosis of polysubstance abuse. The patient responded to the unusual combination of clozapine, sertraline, quetiapine, valproate semisodium and clonazepam but there were difficulties with the clozapine titration and augmentation. The clinical management lessons are discussed.
For how long should patients with FCD be followed up?
Authors: Hamid Shahd , Larner Andrew J
Published: February 2019

Functional cognitive disorders (FCD) have gained a higher profile in recent times, but in the absence of diagnostic criteria or tests the diagnosis is always provisional. An arbitrary one‐year period of follow up has been suggested. Dr Hamid and Dr Larner present a case in which a diagnosis other than FCD emerged later than this duration of follow up.
Cross‐linking induced thermoresponsive hydrogel with light emitting and self‐healing property
Authors: Shen Jiafu , Wang Xuemeng , An Heng , Chang Limin , Wang Yong , Li Wenjuan , Qin Jianglei
Published: February 2019

Development of self‐healing hydrogels with thermoresponse is very important for artificial smart materials. In this article, the self‐healing hydrogels with reversible thermoresponses were designed through across‐linking‐induced thermoresponse (CIT) mechanism. The hydrogels were prepared from ketone group containing copolymer bearing tetraphenyl ethylene (TPE) and cross‐linked by naphthalene containing acylhydrazide cross‐linker. The mechanical property, light emission, self‐healing, and thermo‐response of the hydrogels were investigated intensively. With regulation of the copolymer composition, the hydrogels showed thermoresponse with the LCST varied from above to below body temperature. At the same time, the hydrogels showed self‐healing property based on the reversible characteristic of the acylhydrazone bond. The hydrogel also showed temperature‐regulated light emission behavior based on AIE property of the TPE unit. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 869–877
Hydroxyl‐tolerated polymerization of N‐phenoxycarbonyl α‐amino acids: A simple way to polypeptides bearing hydroxyl groups
Authors: Yang Zhening , Bai Tianwen , Ling Jun , Shen Youqing
Published: February 2019

Differing from the moisture‐sensitive α‐amino acid N‐carboxyanhydrides (AA‐NCAs) monomers, N‐phenoxycarbonyl α‐amino acids (AA‐NPCs) can be prepared and stored in open air. In this contribution, we report that the controlled polymerizations of AA‐NPC monomers of O‐tert‐butyl‐dl‐serine (BRS‐NPC), Nε‐benzyloxycarbonyl‐l‐lysine (ZLL‐NPC) and Nε‐trifluoroacetyl‐l‐lysine (FLL‐NPC) initiated by amines are surprisingly able to tolerate common nucleophilic impurities such as water and alcohols at a level of monomer concentration. The structures of polypeptides synthesized in the presence of water or alcohols agree well with the designed ones in the case of repeated chain extensions. Detailed mechanism study and density functional theory calculation reveal that the low concentration of AA‐NCA and the high activity of amines are the key factors to the controllability of AA‐NPC polymerizations. The water‐ and alcohol‐tolerant property in polymerizations of AA‐NPCs encourages the following studies on unprotected (phenolic) hydroxyl groups containing AA‐NPCs. The controllable polymerizations of N‐phenoxycarbonyl l‐tyrosine (LT‐NPC) and N‐phenoxycarbonyl S‐(3‐hydroxypropyl)‐l‐cysteine (HLC‐NPC) initiated by amines are confirmed and reported for the first time, which extends the library of AA‐NPCs and polypeptides as well. All the universality of library, the convenience of monomer preparation, and the controllability and water‐ and alcohol‐tolerant property of polymerization of AA‐NPCs significantly enhance the feasibility of polypeptide synthesis, making AA‐NPC approach a promising synthetic method of polypeptides. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 907–916
Protein dynamics analysis reveals that missense mutations in cancer‐related genes appear frequently on hinge‐neighboring residues
Authors: Sayılgan Jan Fehmi , Haliloğlu Türkan , Gönen Mehmet
Published: February 2019

Missense mutations have various effects on protein structures, also leading to distorted protein dynamics that plausibly affects the function. We hypothesized that missense mutations in cancer‐related genes selectively target hinge‐neighboring residues that orchestrate collective structural dynamics. To test our hypothesis, we selected 69 cancer‐related genes from the Cancer Gene Census database and their representative protein structures from the Protein Data Bank. We first identified the hinge residues in two global modes of motion by applying the Gaussian Network Model. We then showed that missense mutations are significantly enriched on hinge‐neighboring residues in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. We observed that several oncogenes (eg, MAP2K1, PTPN11, and KRAS) and tumor suppressor genes (eg, EZH2, CDKN2C, and RHOA) strongly exhibit this phenomenon. This study highlights and rationalizes the functional importance of missense mutations on hinge‐neighboring residues in cancer.
Chemical inhibition of Kir channels reduces salivary secretions and phloem feeding of the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii (Glover)
Authors: Li Zhilin , Davis Jeffrey A , Swale Daniel R
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

The unique feeding biology of aphids suggests novel insecticide targets are likely to exist outside of the nervous system. We therefore aimed to directly test the hypothesis that pharmacological inhibition of inward rectifier potassium (Kir) channels would result in salivary gland failure and reduced sap ingestion by the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii.

RESULTS

The Kir inhibitors VU041 and VU590 reduced the length of the salivary sheath in a concentration dependent manner, indicating that the secretory activity of the salivary gland is reduced by Kir inhibition. Next, we employed the electrical penetration graph (EPG) technique to measure the impact Kir inhibition has to aphid sap feeding and feeding biology. Data show that foliar application of VU041 eliminated the E1 and E2 phases (phloem feeding) in all aphids studied. Contact exposure to VU041 after foliar applications was found to be toxic to A. gossypii at 72 and 96 h post‐infestation, indicating mortality is likely a result of starvation and not acute toxicity. Furthermore, VU041 exposure significantly altered the feeding behavior of aphids, which is toxicologically relevant for plant–virus interactions.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest Kir channels are critical for proper function of aphid salivary glands and the reduced plant feeding justifies future work in developing salivary gland Kir channels as novel mechanism aphicides. Furthermore, products like VU041 would add to a very minor arsenal of compounds that simultaneously reduce vector abundance and alter feeding behavior. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
TheSocialMedwork: providing access to overseas medicines
Authors: Ogden Joy
Published: February 2019

TheSocialMedwork is an online service that helps patients across the world to access new medicines that are not approved in their own country. Joy Ogden talks to its founder and CEO Sjaak Vink about the service's achievements, obstacles and long‐term goals.
Phosphorogenic and spontaneous formation of tris(bipyridine)ruthenium in peptide scaffolds
Authors: Karimiavargani Marziyeh , Tada Seiichi , Minagawa Noriko , Shimizu Yoshihiro , Hirose Takuji , Ito Yoshihiro , Uzawa Takanori
Published: February 2019

Redox‐active ruthenium complexes have been widely used in various fields; however, the harsh conditions required for their synthesis are not always conducive to their subsequent use in biological applications. In this study, we demonstrate the spontaneous formation of a derivative of tris(bipyridine)ruthenium at 37°C through the coordination of three bipyridyl ligands incorporated into a peptide to a ruthenium ion. Specifically, we synthesized six bipyridyl‐functionalized peptides with randomly chosen sequences. The six peptides bound to ruthenium ions and exhibited similar spectroscopic and electrochemical features to tris(bipyridine)ruthenium, indicating the formation of ruthenium complexes as we anticipated. The photo‐excited triplet state of the ruthenium complex formed in the peptides exhibited an approximately 1.6‐fold longer lifetime than that of tris(bipyridine)ruthenium. We also found that the photo‐excited state of the ruthenium complexes was able to transfer an electron to methyl viologen, indicating that the ruthenium complexes formed in the peptides had the same ability to transfer charge as tris(bipyridine)ruthenium. We believe that this strategy of producing ruthenium complexes in peptides under mild conditions will pave the way for developing new metallopeptides and metalloproteins containing functional metal‐complexes.
Optical Properties and Carrier Dynamics in Inorganic and Hybrid Inorganic/Organic ZnO‐ and GaN‐Based Nanowire Structures
Authors: Jaros Angelina , Bley Stephanie , Zimmermann Kseniia , Krieg Linus , Castro‐Carranza Alejandra , Gutowski Jürgen , Meierhofer Florian , Voss Tobias
Published: February 2019

In this paper, results on the optical properties and carrier dynamics in inorganic and hybrid inorganic/organic semiconductor nanowire structures based on the ZnO and GaN material systems, obtained by the involved groups in the last years, are reviewed. First, the recombination dynamics in 3D GaN‐based microrod LED structures is analyzed and discussed. In particular, the dynamics at high excitation densities close to the damage threshold of the material is studied. This is followed by a discussion of the carrier dynamics in nanowire structures functionalized with colloidal CdSe quantum dots (QDs) or carbon nanoparticles (C‐Dots). Here, the nanoparticles allow for light absorption at photon energies below the bandgap of the semiconductor nanowire, and subsequent electron tunneling couples the electronic systems of the nanoparticles and the nanowires (NWs). Finally, the fabrication of nanowire/polymer core–shell structures is demonstrated and the electrical properties of n‐nanowire/p‐polymer hybrid junctions are studied.
Physical Synthesis and Study of Ag@CaF2 Core@Shell Nanoparticles: Morphology and Tuning of Optical Properties
Authors: D'Addato Sergio , Vikatakavi Avinash , Spadaro Maria Chiara , Valeri Sergio , Pasquali Luca
Published: February 2019

Pre‐formed Ag nanoparticles (NPs) and Ag@CaF2 core–shell NPs are physically synthesized using DC magnetron‐based NP source and deposited on Si‐SiOx wafers. The samples are prepared by co‐depositing Ag nanoparticles and CaF2 produced by an evaporation source, or by sequential deposition method, i.e., by depositing in a sequence a CaF2 buffer layer, the Ag NPs generated by the NP source and a capping CaF2 layer. The supported films are characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and Surface Differential Reflectivity (SDR). SEM shows that Ag NPs deposited directly on Si‐SiOx tend to diffuse and to agglomerate, affecting the size distribution of the nanostructures. The presence of a CaF2 buffer layer between Ag and Si‐SiOx limits this effect, while XPS reveals electrical charging, caused by the insulating nature of the CaF2 continuous film. The surface plasmon resonance behavior for different samples is analyzed using SDR with p‐polarized light. There is a clear evidence of a blue shift in the plasmon excitation due to the presence of CaF2 on Si, which can represent a potential advantage for the technological applications in photovoltaics and optoelectronics.
Multicriteria evaluation and optimization of the ultrasonic sealing performance based on design of experiments and response surface methodology
Authors: D'huys Karlien , Bamps Bram , Peeters Roos , De Ketelaere Bart
Published: February 2019

Proper closure is an essential packaging quality aspect and can, amongst others, be achieved with ultrasonic sealing. The ultrasonic sealing performance depends on the film type, and the seal settings, such as seal time, applied force and ultrasonic amplitude. Because these parameters are less intuitive than heat seal parameters and optimal settings are undefined for many films, this work presents an efficient approach to evaluate the effect of these settings on the ultrasonic sealing performance. An experimental design defines the experiments to perform. A response surface methodology is then used to model the relation between seal settings and sealing performance. Based on these models, the seal settings are optimized. As there are several criteria to express sealing performance, single‐criteria and multicriteria optimizations are described.

The approach was illustrated for a polyethylene terephthalate/linear low‐density polyethylene‐C4 film. The seal settings were optimized to obtain high seal strength, limited ultrasonic horn displacement, and low seal energy. The optimum settings were 0.1 seconds (seal time), 4.32 N/mm (force), and 28.75 μm (amplitude). The predicted optimum strength, horn displacement, and energy were 2.32 N/mm, 40 μm, and 11.66 J, respectively. Besides the optimum, the seal window is also of interest. A broad seal window ensures sufficient seal strength for a wide range of settings. For the polyethylene terephthalate/linear low‐density polyethylene‐C4 film, a strength of ≥90% of the optimum was obtained for 39% of the input combinations within the design space.

The presented approach is widely applicable (other films and sealing processes) since it is flexible in the input parameters, design, and responses.
Evaluating the potential of nanoparticles for controlling zinc stearate release from low‐density polyethylene into food simulants
Authors: Zabihzadeh Khajavi Maryam , Mohammadi Reza , Ahmadi Shervin , Farhoodi Mehdi , Abedi Abdol‐Samad
Published: February 2019

The present study addressed the effect of polymer nanocomposites with different loading contents of fume silica (nanospheres) and nanoclay (nanosheet) on migration of zinc stearate from packaging materials into food simulants. Specific migration levels of zinc stearate from neat low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) and LDPE/nanocomposites into two food simulants stored at 40°C for 10 days were determined by gas chromatography coupled with flame ionization detector. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis showed that incorporation of nanoparticles, especially at 1 wt% loading level of nano silica, noticeably increased degree of crystallinity, which significantly reduced water vapour permeability. Nanocomposites had a lower migration of zinc stearate in comparison with neat polymer. Additionally, results of this study revealed that physical properties of the food simulant had dominant effect on migration of zinc stearate.
A two‐fluid single‐column model of the dry, shear‐free, convective boundary layer
Authors: Thuburn John , Efstathiou Georgios A. , Beare Robert J.
Published: February 2019

A single‐column model of the dry, shear‐free, convective boundary layer is presented in which non‐local transports by coherent structures such as thermals are represented by the partitioning of the fluid into two components, updraught and environment, each with a full set of prognostic dynamical equations. Local eddy diffusive transport and entrainment and detrainment are represented by parametrizations similar to those used in eddy diffusivity mass flux schemes. The inclusion of vertical diffusion of the vertical velocity is shown to be important for suppressing an instability inherent in the governing equations. A semi‐implicit semi‐Lagrangian numerical solution method is presented and shown to be stable for large acoustic and diffusive Courant numbers, though it becomes unstable for large advective Courant numbers. The solutions are able to capture key physical features of the dry convective boundary layer. Some of the numerical challenges posed by sharp features in the solution are discussed, and areas where the model could be improved are highlighted.
Modeling and robust adaptive iterative learning control of a vehicle‐based flexible manipulator with uncertainties
Authors: Xing Xueyan , Liu Jinkun
Published: February 2019

In this brief, this paper deals with a robust adaptive iterative learning control (ILC) problem for a flexible manipulator attached to a moving vehicle with uncertainties. To begin with, considering the infinite dimensionality of the flexible distributed parameter system, a coupled ordinary differential equation and partial differential equation model is established without any discretization. Then, it is followed by a presentation of an adaptive ILC strategy, which can drive the vehicle and joint to the desired positions based on a proportional‐derivative feedback structure with unmodeled dynamics and external disturbances. The deformation of the flexible manipulator can also be suppressed simultaneously under the proposed control laws. By using Lyapunov's direct method, the stability of the closed‐loop system is demonstrated. The simulation results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control laws.
The effect of trace additions of copper and pretreatment conditions on the filiform corrosion of powder‐coated aluminium alloy AA6060
Authors: Halseid Malgorzata , Gundersen Jan Tore B. , Bauger Øystein , Hentschel Thomas
Published: February 2019

This paper presents a short review of the literature data and the newest studies of filiform corrosion (FFC) testing of profiles extruded using a recycling‐friendly AA 6xxx aluminium alloy, with Cu content up to 0.09 wt%. As the pretreatment plays a significant role in avoiding FFC on powder‐coated aluminium profiles, the profiles were pretreated and coated at three different production sites. They have been tested at 40°C, 82% RH for 1000 hours (according to modified ISO 4623‐2). It was observed that differences in FFC behaviour of the same type of profile coated at different plants were more significant than differences between samples with increasing Cu content.

In order to understand the differences between profiles coated at different sites, GDOES analysis of samples was performed, specially focusing on surface enrichment of copper through the pretreatment.
Application of surface analysis in study on removal mechanism and abrasive selection during fused silica chemical mechanical polishing
Authors: Chen Gaopan , Luo Haimei , Kang Chengxi , Luo Guihai , Zhou Yan , Pan Guoshun
Published: February 2019

In this work, surface analysis technology is employed to investigate the removal mechanism and the selection of abrasive during fused silica chemical mechanical polishing (CMP). Morphology of abrasives is inspected by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The atomic force microscope (AFM) is used to determine the surface roughness (Rq) and undulating (PV) of the polished fused silica surface. The results show that abrasive morphology has a tremendous influence on removal rate (MRR) and PV but has little effect on the Rq. The AFM and infrared spectroscopy (IR) analysis show that a soft layer, called “silica gel membrane (SGM),” existed on the polished surface is the critical reason for the differences of MRR, Rq, and PV during CMP. For three kinds of micro‐ceria abrasives, the abrasive with a rougher surface gets more opportunities to contact the surface of fused silica, yielding higher MRR. Regarding different kinds of nano‐abrasives, there are more SGM induced by nano‐ceria abrasive resulting from higher chemical reaction rate. The element contaminations on the polished fused silica have been assessed using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and the results suggest that there are depths of 3.6 and 5.4‐nm element contaminations on the polished surface of fused silica with nano‐ceria and nano‐alumina abrasives, respectively. While the surface polished by nano‐silica is free of heterogeneous element contaminations. Based on study results, a novel polishing slurry is designed by modifying the chemical composition of nano‐silica. Comparing with ceria‐based slurry, the silica‐based slurry has better removal efficiency, and surface quality in fused silica precision machining.
Progress toward Understanding the Interactions between DNA Nanostructures and the Cell
Authors: Chiu Yee Ting Elaine , Li Huize , Choi Chung Hang Jonathan
Published: February 2019

Advances in DNA nanotechnology empower the programmable assembly of DNA building blocks (oligonucleotides and plasmids) into DNA nanostructures with precise architectural control. As DNA nanostructures are biocompatible and can naturally enter mammalian cells without the aid of transfection agents, they have found numerous biological or biomedical applications as delivery carriers of therapeutic and imaging cargoes into mammalian cells for at least a decade. Nevertheless, mechanistic studies on how DNA nanostructures interact with cells have remained limited and incomprehensive until 2–3 years ago. This Review presents the recent progress in elucidating the “cell–nano” interactions of DNA nanostructures, with an emphasis on three key classes of structures commonly utilized in intracellular applications: tile‐based structures, origami‐based structures, and nanoparticle‐templated structures. Structural parameters of DNA nanostructures and strategies of biochemical modification for promoting intracellular delivery are discussed. Biological mechanisms for cellular uptake, including specific pathways and receptors involved, are outlined. Routes of intracellular trafficking and degradation, together with strategies for re‐directing their trafficking, are delineated. This Review concludes with several aspects of the “bio–nano” interactions of DNA nanostructures that warrant future investigations.
Controlling Chirality across Length Scales using DNA
Authors: Cecconello Alessandro , Simmel Friedrich C.
Published: February 2019

Nano‐objects with chiral properties attract growing interest due to their relevance for a wide variety of technological applications. For example, chiral nano‐objects may be used in characterization platforms that involve chiral molecular recognition of proteins or in the fabrication of nanomechanical devices such as screw‐gears or nanoswimmers. Spatial ordering of emitters of circularly polarized light might greatly benefit from the utilization of chiral shapes. Tools developed in DNA nanotechnology now allow precise tailoring of the chiral properties of molecules and materials at various length scales. Among others, they have already been applied to control the handedness of helical shapes (configurational chirality) or the chiral positioning of different‐sized nanoparticles at the vertices of tetrahedra (compositional chirality). This work covers some of the key advances and recent developments in the field of chiral DNA nanoarchitectures and discusses their future perspectives and potential applications.
Strongly Correlated Aromatic Molecular Conductor
Authors: Hu Yong , Zhong Guohua , Guan Ying‐Shi , Armstrong Jason N. , Li Changning , Liu Changjiang , N'Diaye Alpha , Bhattacharya Anand , Ren Shenqiang
Published: February 2019

Strongly correlated electronic molecules open the way for strong coupling between charge, spin, and lattice degrees of freedom to enable interdisciplinary fields, such as molecular electronic switches and plasmonics, spintronics, information storage, and superconducting circuits. However, despite exciting computational predictions and promising advantages to prepare flexible geometries, the electron correlation effect in molecules has been elusive. Here, the electron correlation effects of molecular plasmonic films are reported to uncover their coupling of charge, spin, lattice, and orbital for the switchable metal‐to‐insulator transition under external stimuli, at which the simultaneous transition occurs from the paramagnetic, electrical, and thermal conducting state to the diamagnetic, electrical, and thermal insulating state. In addition, density functional theory calculation and spectroscopic studies are combined to provide the mechanistic understanding of electronic transitions and molecular plasmon resonance observed in molecular conducting films. The self‐assembled molecular correlated conductor paves the way for the next generation integrated micro/nanosystems.
Earthquake response control of a super high‐rise structure subjected to long‐period ground motions via a novel viscous damped system with multilever mechanism
Authors: Liu Wenguang , Guo Yan , Dong Xiuling , He Wenfu
Published: February 2019

A novel viscous damped system and its principles are proposed in the paper. It is a novel viscous damped system with multilever mechanism that can improve the energy dissipation capacity of conventional viscous dampers. In order to compare the damping effects of the novel viscous damper with that of the conventional viscous damper, a shaking table test of a three‐story steel frame structure is performed. Testing results indicate that the novel viscous damped system is more efficient. The elastic time‐history analysis of a super high‐rise frame‐core tube structure is studied under the frequently occurring earthquake. Dynamic loads take two groups of ground motions with different period characteristics into account. Main response values such as base shear, interstory drift, and acceleration factor under long‐period ground motions are apparently larger than the seismic results due to standard ground motions. Responses between the undamped structure and the damped structure with conventional viscous dampers or the latest products are compared. It is concluded that the proposed viscous damped system can perform more effectively in reducing high‐rise structural responses subject to long‐period ground motions.
Vision‐based facial oil blotting paper counting
Authors: Sato Junya , Yamada Takayoshi , Ito Kazuaki , Akashi Takuya
Published: February 2019

In the production of facial oil blotting papers, a certain number of papers must be counted before packaging. Currently, the papers are counted by hand, and this is hard work. Also, there are risks of adhesion of dust and wrinkles. In order to solve these problems, we propose a vision‐based approach. After the papers, which are arranged by shifting, are captured, the proposed image processing steps detect the boundaries of the papers. By counting the detected boundaries, the number of papers can be counted. Since the parameters for the proposed image processing are optimized by genetic algorithm, prior setting by a user is not necessary. For the experiments, an image dataset was constructed with six types of facial oil blotting papers. The proposed method achieved higher F‐measure than in other related works. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
An improved synchronous reference frame filter for sliding mode observer position sensorless method of open‐winding pm generator system
Authors: Wang Yu , Hao Wenjuan
Published: February 2019

In view of the relatively low estimation accuracy in the low‐pass filter (LPF)‐based sliding mode observer (SMO) method, synchronous reference frame filter (SRFF)‐based SMO (without input LPF) method, and SRFF‐based SMO (with input LPF) method, an improved SRFF‐based SMO position sensorless method of the open‐winding permanent magnet generator (OWPMG) system is presented. This improved SRFF consists of a programmable eighth‐order low‐pass filter (8th‐PLPF), a traditional SRFF, and two phase‐locked loops (PLL1 and PLL2). Based on the synchronous angular frequency obtained by PLL2, the 8th‐PLPF together with the traditional SRFF can not only effectively filter out the harmonics in the output of the SMO but also achieve the fundamental back‐EMF without magnitude and phase angle errors. Then, based on the obtained accurate back‐EMF, the estimated rotor position angle can be obtained without phase shift. The OWPMG system using the improved method can work well in both steady‐state and dynamic conditions, which is verified by experimental results. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Measuring Thin Transparent Films Precisely
Authors: Quinten Michael
Published: February 2019

Fast Fourier transform (FTT) and nonlinear regression analysis are established analysis methods in the context of reflectometric layer thickness determination on thin transparent films.

Where applicable, FFT is a very fast method for determining film thickness, but with limitations in resolution. The far more complex nonlinear regression analysis provides more accurate results. But it also has its problems which are discussed here.
Application of X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy to provenance studies of Algerian archaeological pottery
Authors: Idjouadiene Lynda , Mostefaoui Toufik A. , Djermoune Hocine , Bonizzoni Letizia
Published: February 2019

The North African regions boast a multimillenary tradition of pottery production that represents a decisive progress in all societies. In this paper, we present the analysis of several fragments of pottery dating from the Middle Ages and collected in the archaeological site of Gouraya in Béjaïa (Algeria). Energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence measurements were performed to obtain the elemental composition of the clays and to attempt a classification of the samples through multivariate analysis methods, connecting them to the archaeological information about the sites. Hierarchical clusters analysis (HCA) identified two possible different groups, related to different production sites, even if only one source of clay seem to be used, consistently with the geological contest. Based on the results, a tentative provenance interpretation could be proposed on historical bases. We put in place a strategy that made it possible to perform provenance studies respecting sample integrity as we aim to extend our research also to integer and well‐preserved object from museum, to create a database for Algerian production of in the Middle Ages.
Numerical solutions of fourth‐order fractional sub‐diffusion problems via parametric quintic spline
Authors: Li Xuhao , Wong Patricia J. Y.
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we develop a numerical scheme for a fourth‐order fractional sub‐diffusion problem using parametric quintic spline and a non‐uniform approximation for Caputo fractional derivatives. The solvability, convergence and stability of the scheme are established in maximum norm, and it is shown that the convergence order is higher than some earlier work done. Four numerical experiments are further carried out to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed scheme as well as to compare with other methods.
Incidence of dementia after age 90 in a multiracial cohort
Authors: Gilsanz Paola , Corrada Maria M. , Kawas Claudia H. , Mayeda Elizabeth Rose , Glymour M. Maria , Quesenberry Charles P. , Lee Catherine , Whitmer Rachel A.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Little is known about dementia incidence in diverse populations of oldest‐old, the age group with highest dementia incidence.

Methods

Incident dementia diagnoses from 1/1/2010 to 9/30/2015 were abstracted from medical records for 2350 members of an integrated health care system in California (n = 1702 whites, n = 375 blacks, n = 105 Latinos, n = 168 Asians) aged ≥90 in 2010. We estimated race/ethnicity‐specific age‐adjusted dementia incidence rates and implemented Cox proportional hazards models and Fine and Gray competing risk of death models adjusted for demographics and comorbidities in midlife and late‐life.

Results

Dementia incidence rates (n = 771 cases) were lowest among Asians (89.9/1000 person‐years), followed by whites (96.9/1000 person‐years), Latinos (105.8/1000 person‐years), and blacks (121.5/1000 person‐years). Cox regression and competing risk models estimated 28% and 36% higher dementia risk for blacks versus whites adjusting for demographics and comorbidities.

Discussion

Patterns of racial/ethnic disparities in dementia seen in younger older adults continue after the age of 90 years, though smaller in magnitude.
Isotopic Insights into Dietary Life History, Social Status, and Food Sharing in American Samoa
Authors: Eerkens Jelmer W. , Bartelink Eric J. , Bartel Julianna , Johnson Phillip R.
Published: February 2019

We test the antiquity of a dietary life history model on Tutuila, American Samoa. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in serial, age-adjusted samples of first and third molars reveal isotopic biographies of 16 individuals from five late Holocene (200–1100 RCYBP) sites. Combining this with bone collagen from a larger sample of individuals, we document a patterned dietary life history on the island. Between ages zero and two years, infants show elevated δ15N values, consistent with a diet rich in breast milk. In early childhood (two–10 years), individuals shift to a diet with higher δ13C values, suggesting greater marine protein intake. Around age 10 years, males shift to a more terrestrially focused diet, while females retain a higher marine signature. After~20 years of age, males and females are more similar in diet, with a greater contribution from terrestrial resources. We argue that these shifts reflect diet-marked social transitions in life histories, especially social status and eating order within households, as predicted from the ethnographic model. When contextualized with other archaeological data, such as mortuary patterns and social organization, the isotopic biographic approach facilitates examination of diet-linked social transitions of individuals as they aged within ancient societies.
The Responsibility of European Archaeologists
Authors: Popa Cătălin Nicolae
Published: February 2019

In this article I address the relationship between European archaeologists and the European Union and argue that the dominant attitude of non-involvement that archaeologists have embraced over the past decades cannot be justified given recent political developments. The European project finds itself in a state of deep crisis, under siege from populist and far-right leaders within and around Europe. We cannot afford to watch from the sidelines when the future of hundreds of millions of people is at stake. As archaeologists we can make a positive contribution by harnessing the political dimension of our work, which we need to stop seeing in a negative light. We should deploy the past to help tackle the challenges of our society. European archaeologists should particularly focus on developing grand narratives of a shared past in Europe, to act as a foundation for a European identity.