bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A genome‐wide association and replication study of blood pressure in Ugandan early adolescents
Authors: Lule Swaib A. , Mentzer Alexander J. , Namara Benigna , Muwenzi Allan G. , Nassanga Beatrice , kizito Dennison , Akurut Helen , Lubyayi Lawrence , Tumusiime Josephine , Zziwa Christopher , Akello Florence , Gurdasani Deept , Sandhu Manjinder , Smeeth Liam , Elliott Alison M. , Webb Emily L.
Published: August 2019

Background

Genetic association studies of blood pressure (BP) have mostly been conducted in non‐African populations. Using the Entebbe Mother and Baby Study (EMaBS), we aimed to identify genetic variants associated with BP among Ugandan adolescents.

Methods

Systolic and diastolic BP were measured among 10‐ and 11‐year olds. Whole‐genome genotype data were generated using Illumina omni 2.5M arrays and untyped variants were imputed. Genome‐wide association study (GWAS) was conducted using linear mixed model regression to account for population structure. Linear regression analysis was used to assess whether variants previously associated with BP (p < 5.0 × 10−8) in published BP GWASs were replicated in our study.

Results

Of the 14 million variants analyzed among 815 adolescents, none reached genome‐wide significance (p < 5.0×10−8) for association with systolic or diastolic BP. The most strongly associated variants were rs181430167 (p = 6.8 × 10−7) for systolic BP and rs12991132 (p = 4.0 × 10−7) for diastolic BP. Thirty‐three (17 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for systolic BP, 15 SNPs for diastolic BP and one SNP for both) of 330 variants previously identified as associated with BP were replicated in this study, but none remained significant after accounting for multiple testing.

Conclusion

Variants showing suggestive associations are worthy of future investigation. Replication results suggest that variants influencing adolescent BP may overlap somewhat with those already established in previous studies, largely based on adults in Western settings.
Muscle thickness measured by ultrasound is reduced in neuromuscular disorders and correlates with clinical and electrophysiological findings
Authors: Abraham Alon , Drory Vivian E. , Fainmesser Yaara , Algom Avi A. , Lovblom Leif E. , Bril Vera
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Nerve imaging has a limited role in axonal and muscle fiber loss. In this study, we sought to explore the utility of standardized muscle ultrasound (US) assessment in these clinical scenarios.

Methods

We performed a prospective study from March to August 2018 of patients attending the neuromuscular clinic. All patients underwent clinical evaluation and standardized muscle thickness measurement by US in seven muscles.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 114 participants, including patients with polyneuropathy, motor neuron disease, and myopathy. The smallest distal muscle thickness was found in patients with polyneuropathy, while the smallest proximal muscle thickness was found in patients with myopathy. Muscle thickness was strongly correlated with muscle strength (r
2 = 0.62), electrophysiological findings (r
2: 0.44‐0.55), and disability score (r
2 = 0.53).

Discussion

Standardized muscle thickness measured by US shows diagnostic usefulness in a spectrum of neuromuscular disorders and correlates with clinical and electrophysiological findings.
The Importance of Live-Well Transport in the Physiological Disturbance Experienced by Smallmouth Bass in Tournaments on Large Water Bodies
Authors: Brooke Thomas C. , Elliott Connor W. , Holden Jeremy , Wang Yuxiang , Hornsby Rachael L. , Tufts Bruce L.
Published: August 2019

Competitive fishing has become an important element of recreational fisheries for black bass Micropterus spp. in North America. The vast majority of competitive events involve a “live-release” format, where fish are held in a boat's live well after being angled and are then released following the weigh-in. We examined the frequency and importance of physical impacts between Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu and the walls of the live well when tournaments are held on large water bodies. Using an experimental live well that included a video recorder, we determined the number of collisions between Smallmouth Bass and the walls of the live well when a 5.6-m boat was driven on Lake Ontario. During these experiments, 10 of 28 Smallmouth Bass lost equilibrium and became inverted. Live-well transport also resulted in elevations of intracellular enzymes in blood plasma that were used as indicators of cell damage. The results of these experiments indicate that physical impacts with the walls of the live well may be an important factor contributing to the physiological disturbance experienced by Smallmouth Bass in tournaments on large water bodies. Our results also show that this disturbance can be reduced by simply padding the live well. These findings have important implications for fisheries managers, as well as the competitive angling community.
Mechanical, microstructural, and thermal characterization insights of pyrolyzed carbon black from waste tires reinforced epoxy nanocomposites for coating application
Authors: Verma Akarsh , Baurai Kriti , Sanjay M. R. , Siengchin Suchart
Published: September 2019

Pyrolysis is a viable technique to convert waste tires into recyclable products, as the dumping of these scrap tires pose a serious environmental threat. In the present investigation, a detail methodology to fabricate and characterize the carbonaceous filler (in the form of nanocarbon black obtained from pyrolysis of waste tires) modified epoxy resin composites has been retrieved. The composites with varying carbon filler content (0, 5, 10, and 15 wt%) were fabricated using the manual hand lay‐up and compression molding techniques. The morphological analysis (field‐emission scanning electron microscopy test) revealed that the synthesized pyrolytic carbon black was in nanoscale and uniformly dispersed in the epoxy matrix. Various physical (density and water absorption), mechanical (tensile, compression, flexural, hardness, and impact), electrical and thermal (differential thermal analysis and thermogravimetric analysis) tests were done to completely examine the nanocomposite developed. We found that the 5 wt% of carbon black in epoxy resin exhibited the best mechanical properties and was complemented by the microstructural (scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction) tests analysis. High tensile strength and hardness than neat epoxy resin makes this composite a potential candidate for polymer coatings in automotive industries.
Improvement in thermal, mechanical, and barrier properties of biocomposite of poly (3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyhexanoate)/modified nano‐SiO2
Authors: Li Dongna , Fu Jirui , Ma Xiaojun
Published: September 2019

A biocomposite of poly (3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBH)/nano‐SiO2 modified with silane coupling agent KH570 (KH570‐SiO2/PHBH) were prepared by solution‐casting method. SiO2 modified with KH570 exhibited improved uniform dispersion than that of pure nano‐SiO2, and maximum thermal decomposition temperature range and crystallinity (Xc) of KH570‐SiO2/PHBH are 8.6°C and 119.7% higher than that of neat PHBH. Compared to the neat PHBH, a 75.4% and 70.8% improvement in Young's modulus and tensile strength were obtained. The water‐vapor transmission and oxygen permeance of KH570‐SiO2/PHBH decreased by 46.2% and 618.6%, respectively. The oxygen barrier property is equivalent to that of polyvinylidene chloride. Simultaneous enhancements on the thermal stability, mechanical, crystallizing, and barrier properties were mainly caused by uniform dispersion of modified nano‐SiO2 and solid interfacial bonding between filler and matrix.
Relations of social‐emotional functioning and kindergarten academic achievement in children of immigrants
Authors: Houri Alaa K. , Sullivan Amanda L.
Published: August 2019

Nearly one in four students residing in the United States is from an immigrant family and these children's school readiness is related to their parent's nativity and other sociodemographic characteristics. Social‐emotional skills are an important conduit for academic development, yet these relations have not been explored for children from immigrant families. This study utilized the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study—Kindergarten Class of 2010–2011, a nationally representative sample of 13,400 students in the United States, to compare the social‐emotional development of kindergarten students from immigrant and nonimmigrant families, and to determine the relations of social‐emotional functioning to kindergarten achievement. Results indicate elevated social‐emotional functioning among children from immigrant families, particularly those who emigrated immigrated from Mexico, compared with children of U.S.‐born parents. Parent nativity predicted reading achievement, but not mathematics performance, even when controlling for sociodemographic factors and social‐emotional skills. This study suggests an immigrant advantage in early social‐emotional development. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Intrinsic and extrinsic future goals: Their differential effects on students’ self‐control and distal learning outcomes
Authors: Zhoc Karen C. H. , King Ronnel B. , Law Wilbert , McInerney Dennis M.
Published: August 2019

Research on intrinsic and extrinsic future goals has mostly focused on their impact on wellbeing with relatively lesser attention being focused on key learning outcomes. This study investigates how the pursuit of different future goals (i.e., society‐, family‐, career‐, wealth‐, and fame‐oriented goals) affects students’ self‐control, and whether self‐control mediates the relationship between future goals and distal learning outcomes (i.e., students’ affect to school and academic achievement 1 year later). The study adopted a longitudinal design involving 8,354 secondary students from 16 schools in Hong Kong. Students had to complete English and Mathematics achievement tests and answer questionnaires measuring the key variables. Structural equation modeling analysis indicated intrinsic future goals were more adaptive compared to extrinsic ones. In particular, results revealed the importance of society‐oriented goal on self‐control and distal learning outcomes. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Assessments to evaluate bilinguals: The overdue discussion of the deaf and hard of hearing student population in the United States
Authors: Holcomb Leala , Lawyer Gloshanda
Published: August 2019

Assessment is a major part of the United States schooling system. Legal requirements make assessment a large part of practitioner responsibilities. The significance of assessment is, even more, the case for special populations such as bilingual hearing and Deaf and Hard of Hearing students, groups that are often the target of concern for English language development delays, differences, and/or disorders. In this article, we discuss the issues around assessing the language of Deaf and Hard of Hearing bilingual students in the United States. We highlight parallels between Deaf Education and hearing bilingual education in regard to language assessment, as well as discuss important distinctions such as the placement of Deaf Education within Special Education and working with two or more language modalities (e.g., signed, spoken, and written). In addition, alternative language assessment practices are discussed. We close this article by proposing ways for practitioners to satisfy legal and field mandates to assess Deaf and Hard of Hearing students while also applying best practices for assessing language skills in bilingual populations.
Rockslides and rock avalanches in the Central Andes of Argentina and their possible association with permafrost degradation
Authors: Tapia Baldis Carla , Trombotto Liaudat Dario
Published: August 2019

The identification of hazardous slopes with degrading permafrost is a key task in the mountain periglacial environment. If rockslides have previously been preconditioned by rock wall permafrost, similar events may be triggered from present unstable rock walls. An inventory of rockslides and rock avalanches in the austral part of the Santa Cruz river basin (31°40′–31°50′S, 70°30′–70°10’W), San Juan, Argentina, was made. The study area comprises a surface of approximately 432 km2 (50% above 3,500 m asl); 15 rockslides, 12 complex rockslides evolving to rock avalanches and 19 rock avalanches were identified. The deposits were analyzed with remote sensory imagery and during fieldwork in order to study processes under permafrost degradation caused by global warming. Rock sampling procedures and laboratory rock‐resistivity testing were also carried out. We characterized the detachment scars and deposits for two rockslides. Two different mechanisms were identified. In one rockslide, shallow active layer detachment was favored by shear‐displacement along pre‐existing joints, as a result of short‐term periods of climate warming. In the other, long‐term permafrost degradation favored a deeper failure process. The studied landslide processes could not be explained by permafrost degradation alone. Faults, the geometric arrangement of their structural elements and seismic activity may contribute to trigger these phenomena. It is expected that the magnitude and frequency of rockslide hazards will increase during the 21st century.
The bridging bronchus: A comprehensive review of a rare, potentially life‐threatening congenital airway anomaly associated with cardiovascular defects
Authors: Henry Brandon M. , Cheruiyot Isaac , Wong Linda M. , Keet Kerri , Mutua Victor , Chhapola Viswas , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: August 2019

The bridging bronchus is a rare congenital airway anomaly in which the right upper lobe of the lung is supplied by the right main bronchus while the right lower lobe, and often the right middle lobe is supplied by an aberrant bronchus arising from the left main bronchus. The aberrant bronchus crosses (bridges) the lower part of the mediastinum, hence the term bridging bronchus (BB). This potentially life‐threatening condition, usually accompanied by diffuse or focal airway stenosis, commonly presents with signs and symptoms related to large airway obstruction, such as respiratory distress, apnea, wheezing, stridor, and recurrent respiratory tract infections. Diagnosis of the BB is often challenging because the associated signs and symptoms mimic those of common conditions such as bacterial and viral bronchiolitis, bronchial asthma, cystic fibrosis, and foreign body aspiration. The BB is also often accompanied by congenital cardiovascular anomalies, including left pulmonary artery sling, atrial, and ventricular septal defects, tetralogy of Fallot, patent ductus arteriosus, and coarctation of the aorta. Patients presenting with the above signs and symptoms who are not responsive to standard treatment modalities, and have accompanying cardiovascular congenital anomalies should, therefore, be investigated for the BB. Herein, we review the anatomy, embryology, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, imaging techniques and surgical management of the BB.
In vitro evaluation of aerosol drug delivery with and without high flow nasal cannula in children
Authors: Alalwan Mahmood A. , Fink James B. , Ari Arzu
Published: August 2019

Objective

To quantify aerosol delivery with or without a high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) in place using pressurized metered‐dose inhaler (pMDI) and jet nebulizer (JN) with facemask in a simulated spontaneously breathing pediatric lung model.

Methods

An upper airway model of a 9‐month‐old infant (Sophia Anatomical Infant Nose‐Throat) with an absolute filter distal to the trachea was connected to a breathing simulator to simulate pediatric parameters (tidal volume = 100 mL, respiratory rate = 30 breaths/min, and I:E ratio = 1:1.4). Oxygen at 3 L/min was administered through an infant HFNC (Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand) attached to the nares of the model. Albuterol sulfate (2.5 mg/3 mL) was delivered with JN attached to an aerosol facemask and powered by air at 8 L/min. Ventolin Hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) (360 μg) was administered using pMDI connected to a valved holding chamber (VHC) with a facemask. Aerosol was administered to the model with and without HFNC in the nares (n = 3). Drug was eluted from the filter and quantified using spectrophotometry. Independent t tests were performed for data analysis (P < .05).

Results

Aerosol deposition was greater without HFNC (6.05% ± 1.53% and 39.54% ± 8.98% for JN and pMDI/VHC, respectively) than with HFNC using JN (2.91% ± 0.23%; P = .024) and pMDI/VHC (6.04% ± 0.28%; P = .003). Delivery efficiency of pMDI/VHC was greater than JN with or without nasal cannula in place (P = .0001 and .003, respectively).

Conclusion

Aerosol administered via facemask over HFNC was less efficient than removing HFNC during administration. When delivering medical aerosol by facemask, the benefit of increased aerosol delivery must be weighed against the changes in oxygen delivery and risk of lung derecruitment when nasal prongs are removed.
Caregiver burden in children with cystic fibrosis and primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Keniş Coşkun Özge , Gençer Atalay Kardelen , Erdem Ela , Karadag‐Saygi Evrim , Gökdemir Yasemin , Karadağ Bülent
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Caregiver burden impacts both the social and economic framework of society. Cystic fibrosis (CF) causes significant caregiver burden, but the current data is scarce. In the case of primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), even less is known. This study aims to compare the caregiver burden of the parents of patients with CF and PCD.

Methods

Patients with CF and PCD between the ages of 6 to 13 and their parents were included. Patients’ clinical information and parents’ demographics were recorded. Caregiver burden was measured with Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale (ZCB), while the quality of life (QOL) was measured with CFQOL—revised (CFQOL‐R) and PCD QOL questionnaire as the patients’ age and diagnosis indicated.

Results

A total of 63 patients, 44 with CF (69%) and 85 caregivers (35 mothers, 6 fathers, and 22 mother‐father dyads) participated in the study. Caregiver burden was significantly higher in mothers of the CF group with a mean ZCB of 30.5 ± 10.7 when compared to the PCD group with a mean ZCB of 21.93 ± 8.26 (P = .006). This was similar in fathers with mean ZCB of 27.5 ± 9.21 in the CF group and 20.36 ± 7.43 in the PCD group (P = .03). In correlation analyses, mothers’ caregiver burden moderately and inversely correlated with CFQOL‐R subscales in the CF population.

Conclusion

Caregiver burden is significantly higher in the CF population when compared to PCD. It is correlated with pulmonary functions and QOL in patients with CF.
Application of an expert system of X‐ ray micro computed tomography imaging for identification of Sitophilus oryzae infestation in stored rice grains
Authors: Srivastava Shubhangi , Mishra Gayatri , Mishra Hari N
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

The plausibility of image texture analysis to assess X‐ray images of S. oryzae‐infested rice after variable storage days (fresh, 45, 90, 135, 180 and 225 days) was investigated using an X‐ray micro computed tomography instrument. Subsequently, image acquisition, pre‐processing, and the extraction of the image textural features was done using volume graphics VGL 2.2 software. Morphological features (radius, diameter, volume, compactness, sphericity, defect volume, and voids) were extracted from the x, y, and z views of the rice grain and used as inputs for principal component analysis (PCA).

RESULTS

Clear grouping was observed between the fresh, 45 and 225‐day‐old S. oryzae‐infested rice grains with a classification accuracy of 88.34%. The voids (884 248.53 μm3) and defect volume distribution (137 428.04 μm3) were found to be the maximum in 225‐day‐old samples. The similarity or the distance indices values between fresh and 255‐day‐old S. oryzae‐infested rice samples were found to be 35 038.08, which resulted in clear discrimination between different storage days in S. oryzae‐infested rice grains.

CONCLUSION

This work contributes to the potential use of image texture analysis to aid in distinguishing S. oryzae‐infested rice grains from fresh rice grains. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Study of Electrode Fabrication in Diamond with a Femto‐Second Laser
Authors: Lopez Paz Ivan , Allegre Olivier , Li Zhaoqing , Oh Alexander , Porter Alice , Whitehead David
Published: August 2019

Diamond is a radiation hard material, which makes it suitable for its use in high energy physics experiments as a particle detector. To further reduce the effects of radiation damage, diamond detectors can be fabricated by inscribing graphitic electrodes perpendicular to the surface—the so‐called 3D detectors. This can be done via processing with a femtosecond laser. Herein, a systematic study of the cross section of the graphitic wires inscribed into diamond is shown as a function of laser pulse energy, stage translational speed and, for the first time, polarization for a single crystal and polycrystalline chemical vapour deposition (CVD) diamond samples. No dependence of the electrode width with speed polarization and sample for the same pulse energies within uncertainties are observed. The graphitic content of the electrodes is studied in terms of Raman spectrometry: no clear dependence on the fabrication parameters studied is observed.
The effects of lycopene supplement on the spermatogram and seminal oxidative stress in infertile men: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Nouri Mehran , Amani Reza , Nasr‐Esfahani Mohammadhossein , Tarrahi Mohammad Javad
Published: August 2019

Infertility is a major, worldwide problem that is affected, and mediated, by several factors, in particular, oxidative stress. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of lycopene supplementation on spermatogram and seminal oxidative stress. In this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial study, 44 infertile men with oligozoospermia were randomly divided into two groups: The experimental group was supplemented with 25 mg of lycopene, and the control group received placebo for 12 weeks. Anthropometric, physical activity and dietary assessment, semen analysis, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde, and glutathione peroxidase were measured pre‐ and post‐intervention. At the end of the study, there was a significant increase in total sperm count and concentration in the lycopene group, and the latter total count remained significant after adjustment (p < .05). Intragroup analysis showed a significant increase in ejaculate volume, total sperm count, concentration total motility, nonprogressive, and nonmotility in lycopene group (p < .05). The TAC changes, in both groups, remained significant after adjustment (p < .05). Also, within‐group analysis showed a significant increase in TAC levels (p < .05). Lycopene supplement can improve sperm parameters and oxidative stress biomarkers in oligozoospermia infertile men; however, further studies with larger sample size and duration are required.
Analysis of artificially oxidized cardiolipins and monolyso‐cardiolipins via liquid chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry and Kendrick mass defect plots after hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography based sample preparation
Authors: Helmer Patrick O. , Korf Ansgar , Hayen Heiko
Published: August 2019

Rationale

Cardiolipins (CL) are a special lipid class which plays a main role in energy metabolism in mitochondria and is involved in apoptosis. In contrast to other glycerophospholipids, they contain four fatty acyl residues which results in a high structural diversity. Oxidation, for example by reactive oxygen species, or lyso forms such as monolyso‐CL (MLCL), increases this diversity. Mass spectrometric analysis and computational identification of CL, MLCL and their oxidation products is therefore a challenging task.

Methods

In order to distinguish CL, MLCL and their oxidation products, a liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) method was developed. A hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC)‐based solid‐phase extraction (SPE) clean‐up approach was developed for CL enrichment. Graphical analysis of CL, MLCL and their oxidation products was carried out by a three‐dimensional Kendrick mass defect (3D‐KMD) plot module, as well as a refined lipid search module of the open‐source metabolomics data mining software MZmine 2.

Results

The HILIC‐based SPE clean‐up enabled complete separation of polar and nonpolar lipid classes. A yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) lipid extract, which was artificially oxidized by means of the Fenton reaction, was analyzed by the developed LC/MS/MS method. CL species with differences in chain length and degree of unsaturation have been separated by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In total 66 CL, MLCL and oxidized species have been identified utilizing 3D‐KMD plots in combination with database matching using MZmine 2. For further characterization of annotated species, MS/MS experiments have been utilized.

Conclusions

3D‐KMD plots capturing chromatographic and high‐resolution mass spectrometry data have been successfully used for graphical identification of CL, MLCL as well as their oxidized species. Therefore, we chose multiple KMD bases such as hydrogen and oxygen to visualize the degree of unsaturation and oxidation capturing chromatographic data by means of a color‐coded paint scale as the third dimension. In combination with database matching, the analysis of low concentrated lipid species in complex samples has been significantly improved.
H2 and H∞ almost output synchronization of heterogeneous continuous‐time multi‐agent systems with passive agents and partial‐state coupling via static protocol
Authors: Stoorvogel Anton A. , Saberi Ali , Liu Zhenwei , Nojavanzadeh Donya
Published: August 2019

This paper studies H2 and H∞ almost output synchronization problems for heterogeneous continuous‐time multiagent systems with passive agents and strongly connected communication graph. For non‐introspective passive agents, a linear static protocol can be designed to achieve almost output synchronization with arbitrarily small H2 norm. Moreover, we show that the H∞ almost output synchronization problem via static protocol is not solvable for this class of systems.
New and Efficient Synthesis of HCV NS3/4 A Protease Inhibitor Telaprevir
Authors: Porala Subbanarasimhulu , Yerrabelly Jayaprakash Rao , Kasireddy Venkateshwar Reddy , Yerrabelly Hemasri , Ghojala Venkat Reddy , Rebelli Pradeep
Published: August 2019

An efficient and improved approach for the synthesis of HCV NS3/4 A (Hepatitis C virus Non‐structural protein 3) protease inhibitor, Telaprevir 1 has been developed, which involves the novel synthesis of key intermediates β‐amino‐α‐hydroxy amide 2 and tripeptide acid 3. The synthesis of β‐amino‐α‐hydroxy amide 2 was designed via the monochloro 24, dichloro 25 intermediates using the crossed Claisen condensation followed by decarboxylation with good overall yield (29.62%). The tripeptide acid 3 was developed by the coupling of dipeptide acid 20 with bicyclic nitrile 29 followed by simple chemical conversions in less number of steps with good overall yield (61.2%).
One‐Pot Three‐Component Synthesis of 3‐Aminoalkyl Indoles Catalyzed by Molecular Iodine
Authors: Depa Navaneetha , Erothu Harikrishna
Published: September 2019

A facile one‐pot three‐component coupling (3CC) of indoles, aldehydes, and N‐alkyl anilines has been attained using a catalytic quantity of molecular iodine under neutral conditions to afford 3‐aminoalkyl indoles at room temperature. The salient features of this method are the mild reaction conditions, the operational simplicity of the method, outstanding yields in moderately at short reaction times and low cost of the catalyst.
Protonation‐Assisted Exfoliation of N‐Containing 2D Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Zhang Xinlei , Luo Xiao , Zheng Xusheng , Wu Xiaojun , Xu Hangxun
Published: September 2019

Ultrathin 2D conjugated polymer nanosheets are an emerging class of photocatalysts for solar‐to‐chemical energy conversion. Until now, the majority of ultrathin 2D polymer photocatalysts are produced through exfoliation of layered polymers. Unfortunately, it still remains a great challenge to exfoliate layered polymers into ultrathin nanosheets with high yields. In this work, a liquid‐phase protonation‐assisted exfoliation is demonstrated to enable remarkably improved exfoliation yields of various 2D N‐containing conjugated polymers such as g‐C3N4, C2N, and aza‐CMP. The exfoliation yields are only 2–15% in pure water whereas they can be substantially improved to 41–56% in 12 m HCl. The exfoliated ultrathin nanosheets possess average thicknesses less than 5 nm and can be easily dispersed in aqueous solutions. More importantly, the exfoliated nanosheets exhibit significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity toward photocatalytic water splitting compared to their bulk counterparts. Further characterizations and computational calculations reveal that protonation of the heterocyclic nitrogen sites in the conjugated polymer frameworks can lead to strong hydrogen bonding between the polymer surfaces and water molecules, resulting in facilitated exfoliation of polymers into the liquid phase. This study unveils an important protocol toward producing ultrathin 2D N‐containing conjugated polymer nanosheets for future solar energy conversion.
How has SPI changed in times of agile development? Results from a multi‐method study
Authors: Küpper Steffen , Pfahl Dietmar , Jürisoo Kristjan , Diebold Philipp , Münch Jürgen , Kuhrmann Marco
Published: August 2019

The emergence of agile methods and practices has not only changed the development processes but might also have affected how companies conduct software process improvement (SPI). Through a set of complementary studies, we aim to understand how SPI has changed in times of agile software development. Specifically, we aim (a) to identify and characterize the set of publications that connect elements of agility to SPI, (b) to explore to which extent agile methods/practices have been used in the context of SPI, and (c) to understand whether the topics addressed in the literature are relevant and useful for industry professionals. To study these questions, we conducted an in‐depth analysis of the literature identified in a previous mapping study, an interview study, and an analysis of the responses given by industry professionals to SPI‐related questions stemming from an independently conducted survey study. Regarding the first question, we identified 55 publications that focus on both SPI and agility of which 48 present and discuss how agile methods/practices are used to steer SPI initiatives. Regarding the second question, we found that the two most frequently mentioned agile methods in the context of SPI are Scrum and Extreme Programming (XP), while the most frequently mentioned agile practices are integrate often, test‐first, daily meeting, pair programming, retrospective, on‐site customer, and product backlog. Regarding the third question, we found that a majority of the interviewed and surveyed industry professionals see SPI as a continuous activity. They agree with the agile SPI literature that agile methods/practices play an important role in SPI activities but that the importance given to specific agile methods/practices does not always coincide with the frequency with which these methods/practices are mentioned in the literature.
Effect of Deformation during Austempering on Bainite Transformation and Retained Austenite in a Medium‐Carbon Bainitic Steel
Authors: Chen Guanghui , Xu Guang , Hu Haijiang , Chen Xin , Mola Javad
Published: August 2019

Carbide‐free bainitic steels present microstructures containing bainitic ferrite, carbon‐enriched retained austenite (RA), and may contain martensite. The effects of deformation during austempering on the subsequent bainite transformation and the final volume fraction of RA are not reported. Herein, compressive true strains of 20% and 40% are applied on two specimens during isothermal holding. For comparison, a specimen is treated with pure isothermal holding. The results show that the deformation during isothermal holding enables the subsequent transformation of the carbon‐enriched austenite into bainite. The bainite fraction formed subsequent to the deformation increases with the applied strain level. Due to the mechanical stabilization of austenite, the final fraction of RA increases with the strain level. Moreover, the martensite/austenite constituent in the final microstructure is clearly refined by deformation. For comparison, a specimen is deformed before isothermal holding. The results indicate a higher total bainite fraction compared with the specimens deformed during austempering. This effect correlates well with the chemical stabilization of the untransformed austenite in the specimens deformed during austempering.
Recent Progress in Inorganic Anions Templated Silver Nanoclusters: Synthesis, Structures and Properties
Authors: Wang Zhi , Gupta Rakesh Kumar , Luo Geng‐Geng , Sun Di
Published: August 2019

Over recent years, research on the ligand‐protected silver clusters have gained significant interest owing to their unique potential applications in catalysis, organic optoelectronics, and luminescent materials. However, the synthesis of structurally precise high‐nuclearity silver nanoclusters is still challenging and become one of the prime interests of chemists. The controllable synthesis of high‐nuclearity silver nanoclusters involves the ingenious use of capping ligands or/and templating agents. Thereinto, the main role of the templating agents is to promote the order arrangement of silver ions around them to form discrete molecules. Our lab has performed comprehensive studies on the ligand‐protected silver clusters in the past eight years. This review highlights recent progress in the use of inorganic template anions, silver precursors, solvents, and the ligand types in synthesizing high‐nuclearity silver nanoclusters. Furthermore, some interesting photo‐ and electrochemical properties revealed by silver clusters including luminescent thermochromism, electrical conductivity, and electrochemical reduction of H2O2 have been also summarized.
Identifying predators from saliva at kill sites with limited remains
Authors: Peelle Laurel E. , Wirsing Aaron J. , Pilgrim Kristine L. , Schwartz Michael K.
Published: August 2019

Kill‐site investigations can yield valuable data about elusive predators and predator–prey interactions, provided the predator species can be definitively identified as the one responsible for the predation event. The traditional method of visually analyzing prey remains to identify predators is prone to observer bias and may be particularly challenging when few remains are present or in systems with congeneric predators. Other potential evidence left by predators, such as scat, may be difficult to reliably link to the responsible predator, whereas tracking requires adequate substrate conditions. Swabbing for predator DNA from saliva is an objective yet underutilized alternative that has primarily been applied to larger carcasses. We demonstrate the usefulness of a saliva‐swabbing method for smaller prey with minimal surface area, including kill sites with almost no prey remains or even just a radiocollar left behind. This study is also the first to compare saliva‐swabbing success by sample type (carcass remains vs. radiocollar). From 2010 to 2014, in the Loomis State Forest and Okanogan National Forest, Washington, USA, we employed forensic techniques to increase certainty about predator species identification at snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus) kill sites for the ultimate purpose of elucidating predator–prey interactions. Predator saliva was sampled from remains and radiocollars with foam buccal swabs, stored in lysis buffer for shelf‐stable preservation, and tested for mitochondrial DNA using polymerase chain reaction and species‐specific primers. This saliva‐swabbing protocol yielded definitive and objective predator species identification for a majority (58.5%) of sampled kill sites (nkill sites = 31/53). Not only were minimal remains often able to yield predator DNA, but swabs from radiocollars provided significantly more predator identifications. Saliva swabbing also provided identifications at 65.5% of kill sites lacking identifiable predator sign and contributed significantly more predator identifications throughout the year when compared with snow‐tracking methods. Expanding saliva‐swabbing methods to smaller prey, radiocollars, and limited remains should allow for more definitive predator identifications at kill sites than have been possible with commonly employed methods, thus augmenting the potential to understand and manage for predators and prey. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Bis‐cyclometalated Rhodium and Iridium Chloride Complexes Yield Different Products Upon Reaction With 9,10‐Diaminophenanthrene
Authors: Graf Marion , Siegmund Daniel , Metzler‐Nolte Nils , Sünkel Karlheinz
Published: August 2019

The reaction of 9.10‐diaminophenanthrene with [{Rh(μ‐Cl)(ptpy)2}2] yields – quite unexpected – the new cyclometalated complex salts [Rh(ptpy)2(9,10‐diiminophenanthrene)]PF6 (1), whereas with the corresponding dinuclear iridium compound the “usual” [Ir(ptpy)2(9,10‐diaminophenanthrene)]PF6 (2) is obtained. The molecular structure of compound 1 was confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. 1 crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/n as a dichloromethane solvate. Both compounds display significant cytotoxicity against human cancer cell lines with the IC50 values in the low micromolar range.
Collider constraints on Z′ models for neutral current B-anomalies
Authors: Allanach B. C. , Butterworth J. M. , Corbett Tyler
Published: August 2019

Abstract

We examine current collider constraints on some simple Z
′ models that fit neutral current B-anomalies, including constraints coming from measurements of Standard Model (SM) signatures at the LHC. The ‘MDM’ simplified model is not constrained by the SM measurements but is strongly constrained by a 139 fb−1 13 TeV ATLAS di-muon search. Constraints upon the ‘MUM’ simplified model are much weaker. A combination of the current B

s
mixing constraint and ATLAS’ Z
′ search implies

$$ {M}_{Z^{\prime }}>1.2 $$

M

Z
′

>
1.2

TeV in the Third Family Hypercharge Model example case. LHC SM measurements rule out a portion of the parameter space of the model for

$$ {M}_{Z^{\prime }}>1.5 $$

M

Z
′

>
1.5

TeV.
On N-spike strings in conformal gauge with NS-NS fluxes
Authors: Banerjee Aritra , Biswas Sagar , Pandit Priyadarshini , Panigrahi Kamal L.
Published: August 2019

Abstract

The AdS
3 × S
3 string sigma model supported both by NS-NS and R-R fluxes has become a well known integrable model, however a putative dual field theory description remains incomplete. We study the anomalous dimensions of twist operators in this theory via semiclassical string methods. We describe the construction of a multi-cusp closed string in conformal gauge moving in AdS
3 with fluxes, which supposedly is dual to a general higher twist operator. After analyzing the string profiles and conserved charges for the string, we find the exact dispersion relation between the charges in the ‘long’ string limit. This dispersion relation in leading order turns out to be similar to the case of pure RR flux, with the coupling being scaled by a factor that depends on the amount of NS-NS flux turned on. We also analyse the case of pure NS flux, where the dispersion relation simplifies considerably. Furthermore, we discuss the implications of these results at length.
Tri-vector deformations in d = 11 supergravity
Authors: Bakhmatov Ilya , Deger Nihat Sadik , Musaev Edvard T. , Colgáin Eoin Ó , Sheikh-Jabbari Mohammad M.
Published: August 2019

Abstract

We construct a d = 11 supergravity analogue of the open-closed string map in the context of SL(5) Exceptional Field Theory (ExFT). The deformation parameter tri-vector Ω generalizes the non-commutativity bi-vector parameter Θ of the open string. When applied to solutions in d = 11, this map provides an economical way of performing TsT deformations, and may be used to recover d = 10 Yang-Baxter deformations after dimensional reduction. We present a generalization of the Classical Yang-Baxter Equation (CYBE) for rank 3 objects, which emerges from d = 11 supergravity and the SL(5) ExFT. This equation is shown to reduce to the d = 10 CYBE upon dimensional reduction.
Probing transverse-momentum distributions with groomed jets
Authors: Gutierrez-Reyes Daniel , Makris Yiannis , Vaidya Varun , Scimemi Ignazio , Zoppi Lorenzo
Published: August 2019

Abstract

We present the transverse momentum spectrum of groomed jets in di-jet events for e
+
e
− collisions and semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (SIDIS). The jets are groomed using a soft-drop grooming algorithm which helps in mitigating effects of non-global logarithms and underlying event. At the same time, by reducing the final state hadronization effects, it provides a clean access to the non-perturbative part of the evolution of transverse momentum dependent (TMD) distributions. In SIDIS experiments we look at the transverse momentum of the groomed jet measured w.r.t. the incoming hadron in the Breit frame. Because the final state hadronization effects are significantly reduced, the SIDIS case allows to probe the TMD parton distribution functions. We discuss the sources of non-perturbative effects in the low transverse momentum region including novel (but small) effects that arise due to grooming. We derive a factorization theorem within SCET and resum any large logarithm in the measured transverse momentum up to NNLL accuracy using the ζ-prescription as implemented in the artemide package and provide a comparison with simulations.
Empathy and Delight in a Personal Service Setting
Authors: Nguyen Thi Nguyet Que , Tran Quan Ha Minh , Chylinski Mathew
Published: August 2019

This study examines the mechanisms through which employee empathy is related to customer delight in a personal service setting where customers and frontline employees interact to produce and deliver a service. Building on trait-behavior-performance relation, we propose that there exists an indirect relationship between employee empathy and customer delight with the employee, and that employee deep acting and perceived service quality would independently and serially mediate the empathy-satisfaction relationship. Health care is an appropriate context for examining the role of empathy in customer-employee interactions because of the depth and variance of service experiences. Our sample includes 154 dyads of customers (patients) and service employees (doctors), who were surveyed after a patient and a doctor completed a health consultation, diagnosis or treatment. Our findings suggest that special attention should be paid to leverage deep acting and empathy dimensions of health care. Specifically, health care managers should concentrate on the improvement of competency and capability of medical employees and establishment of a sincere and authentic relationship between patients and employees to achieve patient delight.
Use of the CDR® plus NACC FTLD in mild FTLD: Data from the ARTFL/LEFFTDS consortium
Authors: Miyagawa Toji , Brushaber Danielle , Syrjanen Jeremy , Kremers Walter , Fields Julie , Forsberg Leah K. , Heuer Hilary W. , Knopman David , Kornak John , Boxer Adam , Rosen Howie , Boeve Bradley ,   on Behalf of the ARTFL/LEFFTDS Consortium
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Behavior/Comportment/Personality (BEHAV) and Language (LANG) domains were added to the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR®) for improving evaluation of patients with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) (CDR® plus NACC FTLD).

Methods

We analyzed the CDR® plus NACC FTLD among participants from the baseline visit of the Advancing Research and Treatment for Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration/Longitudinal Evaluation of Familial Frontotemporal Dementia Subjects Consortium.

Results

The CDR® plus NACC FTLD was able to detect early symptoms in the mildly impaired participants who were rated as CDR® sum of boxes (CDR®‐SB) = 0. The CDR®‐SB was not sensitive, particularly in participants with mild nonfluent/agrammatic primary progressive aphasia. Participants with familial and sporadic behavioral variant FTD exhibited similar CDR® plus NACC FTLD profiles except that language impairment was more frequent in participants with mild sporadic behavioral variant FTD. Adding the BEHAV and/or LANG domains to the CDR®‐SB significantly enhanced discriminatory power in differentiating among the FTLD spectrum disorders.

Discussion

The BEHAV and LANG domains enable the CDR® plus NACC FTLD to capture early symptomatology of FTLD.
Assessment of need and practice for assistive technology and telecare for people with dementia—The ATTILA (Assistive Technology and Telecare to maintain Independent Living At home for people with dementia) trial
Authors: Forsyth Kirsty , Henderson Catherine , Davis Lucy , Singh Roy Anusua , Dunk Barbara , Curnow Eleanor , Gathercole Rebecca , Lam Natalie , Harper Emma , Leroi Iracema , Woolham John , Fox Chris , O'Brien John , Bateman Andrew , Poland Fiona , Bentham Peter , Burns Alistair , Davies Anna , Gray Richard , Bradley Rosie , Knapp Martin , Newman Stanton , McShane Rupert , Ritchie Craig , Talbot Emma , Hooper Emma , Winson Rachel , Scutt Bethany , Ordonez Victoria , Nunn Samantha , Lavelle Grace , Howard Robert
Published: September 2019

Introduction

The objective of this study was to define current assistive technology and telecare (ATT) practice for people with dementia living at home.

Methods

This is a randomized controlled trial (N = 495) of ATT assessment and ATT installation intervention, compared with control (restricted ATT package). ATT assessment and installation data were collected. Qualitative work identified value networks delivering ATT, established an ATT assessment standard.

Results

ATT was delivered by public and not‐for‐profit telecare networks. ATT assessments showed 52% fidelity to the ATT assessment standard. Areas of assessment most frequently leading to identifying ATT need were daily activities (93%), memory (89%), and problem‐solving (83%). ATT needs and recommendations were weakly correlated (τ = 0.242; P < .000), with ATT recommendations and installations moderately correlated (τ = −0.470; P < .000). Half (53%) of recommended technology was not installed. Safety concerns motivated 38% of installations.

Discussion

Assessment recommendations were routinely disregarded at the point of installation. ATT was commonly recommended for safety and seldom for supporting leisure.
Responsible Precautions for Uncertain Environmental Risks
Authors: Viscusi W. Kip , Huber Joel , Bell Jason
Published: August 2019

Uncertain future risks pose cognitive and analytical challenges to household decision makers. Risks with uncertain probabilities, coupled with potentially severe outcomes pose problems for decision-making and are prone to overreactions. Imprecision in risk estimates generates behavioral distortions such as ambiguity aversion. This article presents new empirical results indicating household overvaluations of uncertain threats posed by several drinking water risks: traces of prescription drugs in drinking water, plastic water bottles with bisphenol-A, and the weed killer atrazine in drinking water. Negative reactions reflect responses to ambiguous risks, but policies driven by these concerns may misallocate regulatory resources due to risk conservatism and “no-regrets” responses.