bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultralow Tribological Properties of Polymer Composites Containing [BMIm]PF6‐Loaded Multilayer Wall Microcapsule
Authors: Li Haiyan , Ma Yingjie , Cui Yexiang , Li Zhike , Wang Huaiyuan
Published: February 2019

Multilayer wall microcapsules efficiently loaded with a lubricant (ionic liquid [BMIm]PF6) are successfully synthesized via a combination of interfacial and in situ polymerization reactions based on lignin nanoparticle–stabilized Pickering emulsion templates. The resulting microcapsules are spherical in shape, with an ideal structure of a rough outer surface and a smooth inner surface. The mean diameter and wall thickness of the resultant microcapsules are 52 ± 18 µm and 3–6 µm. The core fraction is ≈71.29 wt%. Compared with the pure epoxy resin, the friction coefficient of self‐lubricating composites decreases by 83.6% (from 0.55 to 0.09) and the wear rate decreases by 218 times (from 76.8 × 10−14 to 0.352 × 10−14 m3 N−1 m−1) by incorporating 20 wt% of the resultant microcapsules into the epoxy resin. It is demonstrated that [BMIm]PF6, a more efficient lubricant, release from the microcapsules during the friction process produced a boundary lubricating film. The bipolar property of [BMIm]PF6 makes the lubricating film firmer, which can efficiently prevent direct contact between the resin matrix and counterface. Furthermore, the rough poly(urea‐formaldehyde) outer surface of multilayer microcapsules brings in an improved interface property between the microcapsules and resin matrix.
Minimal kernels of Dirac operators along maps
Authors: Wittmann Johannes
Published: February 2019

Let M be a closed spin manifold and let N be a closed manifold. For maps and Riemannian metrics g on M and h on N, we consider the Dirac operator of the twisted Dirac bundle . To this Dirac operator one can associate an index in . If M is 2‐dimensional, one gets a lower bound for the dimension of the kernel of out of this index. We investigate the question whether this lower bound is obtained for generic tupels .
A Whole‐Grain Diet Increases Glucose‐Stimulated Insulin Secretion Independent of Gut Hormones in Adults at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Malin Steven K. , Kullman Emily L. , Scelsi Amanda R. , Godin Jean‐Philippe , Ross Alastair B. , Kirwan John P.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

The effect of whole‐grain (WG) versus refined‐grain (RG) diets on glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) and β‐cell function is unclear.

Methods

In a double‐blind crossover randomized controlled trial, 13 prediabetic adults (37.2 ± 1.8 y, BMI: 33.6 ± 1.4 kg m−2, 2 h glucose: 146.9 ± 11.6 mg dL−1) are provided isocaloric‐matched WG and RG diets for 8‐weeks each, with an 8–10 week washout between diets. Glucose, insulin, and C‐peptide are studied over 240 min following a 75 g OGTT. Incretins (GLP‐1 and GIP), PYY, and total ghrelin are assessed at 0, 30, and 60 min. Mixed‐meal diets for carbohydrate (54%), fat (28%), and protein (18%) contain either WG (50 g/1000 kcal) or equivalent RG.

Results

Both diets induce fat loss (≈2 kg). While neither diet impacts early phase GSIS, the WG diet increases total GSIS (iAUC of C‐peptide0‐240/Glc0‐240, p = 0.02) and β‐cell function (disposition index; GSIS × insulin sensitivity, p = 0.02). GIP and PYY are unaltered by either diet, but GLP‐1 is higher at 30 min following RG versus WG (p = 0.04). Ghrelin levels are higher at 60 min of the OGTT following both interventions (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

A WG‐rich diet increases β‐cell function independent of gut hormones in adults with prediabetes.
Jamun (Eugenia jambolana Lam.) Fruit Extract Prevents Obesity by Modulating the Gut Microbiome in High‐Fat‐Diet‐Fed Mice
Authors: Xu Jialin , Liu Tingting , Li Yuanyuan , Liu Wei , Ding Zhanjun , Ma Hang , Seeram Navindra P. , Mu Yu , Huang Xueshi , Li Liya
Published: February 2019

Scope

Published data support that gut microbiota play an important role in the pathological process of obesity and related metabolic disorders. In the current study, it is investigated whether a standardized extract from Jamun (Eugenia jambolana), a widely consumed tropical fruit, could alleviate obesity and alter gut microbial community in high‐fat diet (HFD)‐fed mice.

Methods and results

C57BL/6 mice are fed either a standard diet (SD) or HFD with or without Jamun fruit extract (JFE; 100 mg kg−1 day−1) by oral gavage for 8 weeks. JFE supplementation significantly alleviated diet‐induced obesity, insulin resistance, and liver steatosis. JFE supplementation also improved HFD‐induced gut dysbiosis by restoring the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes as revealed by 16S rDNA analyses. The relative abundance of certain genera, as well as levels and proportion of intestinal‐derived short‐chain fatty acids are improved in JFE‐treated mice in comparison to the HFD‐fed control group.

Conclusion

These promising data show the potential association between gut microbiota modulation and metabolism improvement of the JFE administration, and support the utilization and further investigation of Jamun fruit as a dietary intervention strategy for the prevention of obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Identification of metabolites in coriander seeds (Coriandrum Sativum L.) aided by ultrahigh resolution total correlation NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Verma Ajay , Parihar Rashmi , Baishya Bikash
Published: February 2019

NMR is a fast method for obtaining a holistic snapshot of the metabolome and also offers quantitative information without separating the compounds present in a complex mixture. Identification of the metabolites present in a plant extract sample is a crucial step for all plant metabolomics studies. In the present work, we used various two dimensional (2D) NMR methods such as J‐resolved NMR, total correlation spectroscopy (TOCSY), and heteronuclear single quantum coherence sensitivity enhanced NMR spectroscopy for the identification of 36 common metabolites present in Coriandrum sativum L. seed extract. The identified metabolites belong to the following classes: organic acids, amino acids, and carbohydrates. 1H NMR spectra of such complex mixtures in general display tremendous signal overlap due to the presence of a large number of metabolites with closely resonating multiplet signals. This signal overlapping leads to ambiguity in an assignment, and hence, identification of metabolites becomes tedious or impossible in many cases. Therefore, the utility of pure‐shift proton spectrum along the indirect (F1) dimension of the F1‐PSYCHE‐TOCSY spectrum is demonstrated for overcoming ambiguity in assignment of metabolites in crowded spectral regions from Coriandrum sativum L. seed extract sample. Because pure‐shift NMR methods yield ultrahigh resolution spectrum (i.e., a singlet peak per chemical site) along one or more dimensions, such spectra provide better identification of metabolites compared with regular 2D TOCSY where signal overlap and peak distortions lead to ambiguity in the assignment. Nine metabolites were unambiguously assigned by pure‐shift F1‐PSYCHE‐TOCSY spectrum, which was unresolved in regular TOCSY spectrum.
The cortisol response in parents staying with a sick child at hospital
Authors: Angelhoff Charlotte , Edéll‐Gustafsson Ulla , Mörelius Evalotte
Published: February 2019

Aim

To study the cortisol response in parents staying with their child in paediatric wards, to compare the parents’ cortisol levels between the paediatric ward and at home 4 weeks after discharge and to compare the parents’ cortisol levels with data of an adult reference population, reported by Wust et al., as there are few studies investigating parental cortisol.

Design

This study has a descriptive and prospective comparative design.

Method

Thirty‐one parents participated. Saliva samples were collected in the paediatric ward and 4 weeks later at home.

Results

The parents had lower morning awakening cortisol levels in the paediatric ward than at home after discharge. There were no statistically significant differences in postawakening cortisol or cortisol awakening response (CAR). The child's age, diagnosis or previously diagnosed chronic condition did not affect the parents’ cortisol levels. The morning and postawakening cortisol levels were lower than those of the reference population.

Conclusion

The hospital stay with a sick child affects parents’ cortisol levels. Parental stress needs more attention to find interventions to prevent the risk of stress‐related complications that subsequently can affect the care of the child.
The ever‐evolving SERP: Writing for humans and algorithms
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: February 2019

As marketers in higher education, we all want prospective students to find us when they have a need we can fulfill. We want our pages to appear as an option when someone searches online for a word or phrase relevant to our school or programs.
Reach more reluctant adult learners with low‐cost technology workshops
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: February 2019

Farah Doiguchi has worked in higher education since she herself was in college. Currently the coordinator for the Emeritus College and special programs at the Pacific Center for Advanced Technology Training at Honolulu Community College, Doiguchi also has experience in student affairs and academic affairs, in the Registrar's Office, and in continuing education. She has worked for the University of Hawaii System and at Hawaii Pacific University. But working with older adult learners has been her favorite career experience.
Aspirin in childhood acute ischemic stroke: The evidence for treatment and efficacy testing
Authors: Boucher Alexander A. , Taylor J. Michael , Luchtman‐Jones Lori
Published: February 2019

Aspirin is the most commonly prescribed antiplatelet agent worldwide, but evidence supporting its use varies by age and disease process. Despite its frequent use in childhood acute ischemic stroke prevention and management, major knowledge gaps exist about optimal pediatric aspirin use, particularly in this setting, where high‐quality clinical trials are urgently needed. This review focuses upon the evidence for aspirin use in childhood acute ischemic stroke, includes a summary of aspirin pharmacology to highlight misconceptions and common clinical situations which may limit its efficacy, and discusses the techniques and potential role of laboratory monitoring of aspirin efficacy in children.
Evaluation of phenolic compounds from viroid‐free and viroid‐infected apples using HPLC‐PDA‐ESI‐MS/MS
Authors: Vu Thi Phuong Duyen , Cho In Sook , Kim Kyung Tae , Yang Seo Young , Kim Young Ho , Kang Jong Seong
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Apples are the most consumed fruits in Korea and have played an economically important role in Korean agriculture. However, widespread viroid infection in apples had been reported in recent years.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to clarify the relationships between viroid‐disease resistance and phenols content of three apple cultivars: “Fuji”, “Gamhong”, and “Hongro”. A model for distinguishing between viroid‐free and viroid‐infected apples was also developed.

Methodology

Phenolic compounds in samples were detected using high‐performance liquid chromatography photodiode array tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐PDA‐MS/MS) and quantified using an ultraviolet detector at 280 nm. A C18‐column and 0.5% aqueous acetic acid–methanol were used as the stationary and mobile phase. The HPLC method was validated with respect to linearity, precision, accuracy, and recovery. Multivariate analysis was performed using phenols content as variables to classify viroid‐free and viroid‐infected apples.

Results

An accurate method for identifying and quantifying phenol compounds in apple samples was developed and validated. In response to viroid infection, considerable increases in the content of dihydrochalcones (in all three cultivars), hydroxycinnamic acid (in “Fuji”), and flavonols (in “Hongro”) were observed. The flavonols content in “Fuji” viroid‐infected samples, however, decreased dramatically. An effective linear discriminant model, with 98.2% accuracy and 94.6% predictive ability, was achieved to discriminate between viroid‐free and viroid‐infected samples.

Conclusion

The developed HPLC method is suitable to identify and quantify phenol compounds in viroid‐free and viroid‐infected apples. A hypothesis about the significance of these compounds in viroid‐disease resistance was proposed. The linear discriminant model with high predictive ability is useful for identifying viroid‐infected apples in the orchards.
Safety and Efficacy of a Propofol and Ketamine Based Procedural Sedation Protocol in Children with Cerebral Palsy Undergoing Botulinum Toxin A Injections
Authors: Louer Ryan , McKinney Renee C. , Abu‐Sultaneh Samer , Lutfi Riad , Abulebda Kamal
Published: February 2019

Background

Pediatric patients with cerebral palsy often undergo intramuscular botulinum toxin (BoNT‐A) injections. These injections can be painful and may require procedural sedation. An ideal sedation protocol has yet to be elucidated.

Objective

To investigate the safety and efficacy of a propofol and ketamine based sedation protocol in pediatric patients with cerebral palsy requiring BoNT‐A injections.

Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

The sedations took place in a procedural sedation suite at a tertiary children's hospital from February 2013 through September 2017.

Patients

164 patients with diagnoses of cerebral palsy undergoing propofol and ketamine based sedation for injections with botulinum toxin A.

Methods

An initial bolus of 0.5 mg/kg ketamine followed by a 2 mg/kg bolus of propofol was administered with supplemental boluses of propofol as needed to achieve deep sedation during the intramuscular BoNT‐A injections.

Main Outcome Measurements

Propofol dosages, adverse events, serious adverse events, and sedation time parameters were reviewed.

Results

345 sedations were successfully performed on 164 patients. The median total dose of propofol was 4.7 mg/kg (interquartile range [IQR]: 3.5, 6.3). Adverse events were encountered in 10.1% of procedures including hypoxemia responsive to supplemental oxygen (9.6%) and transient apnea (1.4%). The mean procedure time, recovery time, and total sedation time were 10, 11 and 33 minutes, respectively. With regard to patient variables, including age, weight, dose of propofol, sedation time, and Gross Motor Function Classification System classification, there was no association with increased incidence of adverse events.

Conclusion

Our sedation protocol of propofol and ketamine is safe and effective in children with cerebral palsy undergoing procedural sedation for intramuscular injections with BoNT‐A. The adverse events encountered appeared to be related to airway and respiratory complications secondary to musculoskeletal deformities, emphasizing the importance of airway monitoring and management in these patients.

Level

IV.
Preparation of hierarchically structured PCL superhydrophobic membrane via alternate electrospinning/electrospraying techniques
Authors: Zhang Guohui , Wang Panpan , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Xiang Chunhui , Li Lili
Published: February 2019

Superhydrophobic polycaprolactone (PCL) membranes with hierarchical structure were fabricated via alternate electrospinning/electrospraying techniques. Electrospun PCL/methyl silicone oil (PCL/MSO) nanofibers were employed as substrate. PCL/MSO‐PCL microspheres (PCL/MSO‐PCLMS) hierarchical membrane was prepared via electrosprayed PCLMSas an additional layer on the substrate. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images showed the formation of hierarchical PCL/MSO‐PCLMSmembranes. Compared to pure PCL fibers substrate (120 ± 1.3°), the water contact angle (WCA) of MSO‐modified PCL membrane was 142 ± 0.7°. The most interesting observation was that the WCA of PCLMSwithout any modification could be achieved to 146 ± 2.8°. On this basis, PCL/MSO‐PCLMShierarchical membrane possessed superhydrophobic surface with 150 ± 0.6° of WCA. The excellent surface roughness and air‐pocket capacity of hierarchical membranes would make the membranes more hydrophobic. The maximum oil (n‐hexane) adsorption capacity of PCL/MSO‐PCLMSmembrane was 32.53 g g−1. Oil–water separation efficiencies of the superhydrophobic membranes were all higher than 99.93% after 10 cycles. The hierarchically structured PCL superhydrophobic membranes indicate the potential applications of environmentally friendly biopolymers as separation membranes. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys.2019,57, 421–430
Thermodynamic features of perfectly crystalline poly(3‐hexylthiophene) based on Flory's relation
Authors: Alizadehaghdam Mina , Siegenführ Silvia , Abbasi Farhang , Reiter Günter
Published: February 2019

Poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) as a conjugated polymer has many electrical and photovoltaic applications. However, reliable values for the equilibrium melting temperature () and for the enthalpy of fusion of a perfect P3HT crystal () are still in doubt. In the published works, ranges from 33 to 99 J/g. Here, the melting point of P3HT in P3HT‐diluent mixtures is measured with changing the diluent concentration. By satisfying the requirements of Flory relation, “working with the same polymer crystals” and “working in the equilibrium state,” usually neglected in the literature, a reliable value of = 83 ± 2 J/g is obtained. The reported values for of P3HT are also in a wide range, 260‑300 °C. In this work, accurate applying of the Hoffman‐Weeks relation, against the effects of lamellar thickening, yields = 272 ± 2 °C rather than 300 ± 2°C reported in the literature. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 431–437
Relationship of fatigue with cognitive performance in women with early‐stage breast cancer over 2 years
Authors: Gullett Joseph M. , Cohen Ronald A. , Yang Gee Su , Menzies Victoria S. , Fieo Robert A. , Kelly Debra L. , Starkweather Angela R. , Jackson‐Cook Colleen K. , Lyon Debra E.
Published: February 2019

Objective

Fatigue and cognitive dysfunction are major concerns for women with early‐stage breast cancer during treatment and into survivorship. However, interrelationships of these phenomena and their temporal patterns over time are not well documented, thus limiting the strategies for symptom management interventions. In this study, changes in fatigue across treatment phases and the relationship among fatigue severity and its functional impact with objective cognitive performance were examined.

Methods

Participants (N = 75) were assessed at five time points beginning prior to chemotherapy to 24 months after initial chemotherapy. Fatigue severity and impact were measured on the Brief Fatigue Inventory. Central nervous system (CNS) Vital Signs was used to measure performance based cognitive testing. Temporal changes in fatigue were examined, as well as the relationship between fatigue and cognitive performance, at each time point using linear mixed effect models.

Results

Severity of fatigue varied as a function of phase of treatment. Fatigue severity and its functional impact were moderate at baseline, increased significantly during chemotherapy, and returned to near baseline levels by 2 years. At each time point, fatigue severity and impact were significantly associated with diminished processing speed and complex attention performance.

Conclusions

A strong association between fatigue and objective cognitive performance suggests that they are likely functionally related. That cognitive deficits were evident at baseline, whereas fatigue was more chemotherapy dependent, implicates that two symptoms share some common bases but may differ in underlying mechanisms and severity over time. This knowledge provides a basis for introducing strategies for tailored symptom management that vary over time.
Characterizing death acceptance among patients with cancer
Authors: Philipp Rebecca , Mehnert Anja , Lo Chris , Müller Volkmar , Reck Martin , Vehling Sigrun
Published: February 2019

Objective

Death acceptance may indicate positive adaptation in cancer patients. Little is known about what characterizes patients with different levels of death acceptance or its impact on psychological distress. We aimed to broaden the understanding of death acceptance by exploring associated demographic, medical, and psychological characteristics.

Methods

At baseline, we studied 307 mixed cancer patients attending the University Cancer Center Hamburg and a specialized lung cancer center (age M = 59.6, 69% female, 69% advanced cancer). At 1‐year follow‐up, 153 patients participated. We assessed death acceptance using the validated Life Attitude Profile–Revised. Patients further completed the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale, the Demoralization Scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire, and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire. Statistical analyses included multinomial and hierarchical regression analyses.

Results

At baseline, mean death acceptance was 4.33 (standard deviation [SD] = 1.3, range 1‐7). There was no change to follow‐up (P = 0.26). When all variables were entered simultaneously, patients who experienced high death acceptance were more likely to be older (odds ratio [OR] = 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01‐1.07), male (OR = 3.59; 95% CI, 1.35‐9.56), widowed (OR = 3.24; 95% CI, 1.01‐10.41), and diagnosed with stage IV (OR = 2.44; 95% CI, 1.27‐4.71). They were less likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer (OR = 0.20; 95% CI, 0.07‐0.58), and their death acceptance was lower with every month since diagnosis (OR = 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98‐0.99). High death acceptance predicted lower demoralization and anxiety at follow‐up but not depression.

Conclusions

High death acceptance was adaptive. It predicted lower existential distress and anxiety after 1 year. Advanced cancer did not preclude death acceptance, supporting the exploration of death‐related concerns in psychosocial interventions.
Physiologically‐Based Pharmacokinetic Models for CYP1A2 Drug–Drug Interaction Prediction: A Modeling Network of Fluvoxamine, Theophylline, Caffeine, Rifampicin, and Midazolam
Authors: Britz Hannah , Hanke Nina , Volz Anke‐Katrin , Spigset Olav , Schwab Matthias , Eissing Thomas , Wendl Thomas , Frechen Sebastian , Lehr Thorsten
Published: February 2019

This study provides whole‐body physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic models of the strong index cytochrome P450 (CYP)1A2 inhibitor and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor fluvoxamine and of the sensitive CYP1A2 substrate theophylline. Both models were built and thoroughly evaluated for their application in drug–drug interaction (DDI) prediction in a network of perpetrator and victim drugs, combining them with previously developed models of caffeine (sensitive index CYP1A2 substrate), rifampicin (moderate CYP1A2 inducer), and midazolam (sensitive index CYP3A4 substrate). Simulation of all reported clinical DDI studies for combinations of these five drugs shows that the presented models reliably predict the observed drug concentrations, resulting in seven of eight of the predicted DDI area under the plasma curve (AUC) ratios (AUC during DDI/AUC control) and seven of seven of the predicted DDI peak plasma concentration (Cmax) ratios (Cmax during DDI/Cmax control) within twofold of the observed values. Therefore, the models are considered qualified for DDI prediction. All models are comprehensively documented and publicly available, as tools to support the drug development and clinical research community.
PEO‐PVP‐NaIO4 Ion‐Conducting Polymer Electrolyte: Inspection for Ionic Space Charge Polarization and Charge Trapping
Authors: Hadjichristov Georgi B. , Ivanov Tzvetan E. , Marinov Yordan G. , Koduru Hari Krishna , Scaramuzza Nicola
Published: February 2019

Ion‐conductive solid polymer electrolytes composed from blends of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP), as complexed with the ionic compound sodium periodate (NaIO4), are inspected for the presence of electric charge trapping (CT) and ionic space charge polarization (SCP) under static electric field. Thin films (110 μm‐thick) of these materials are produced at a ratio of the polymers PEO:PVP = 70:30 wt%, the concentration of NaIO4 is 5, 7.5, or 10 wt%. The electrical current at room temperature, as well as the charging/discharging in the films are studied as depending on applied voltage and time. At a detectable level, no SCP and CT processes in PEO‐PVP‐NaIO4 are evidenced, in contrast to identical experiments by PEO film under the same experimental conditions. The largely reduced SCP and CT are of importance for electrochemical applications of the considered ion‐conducting PEO‐PVP‐NaIO4 ion‐polymer coupled system.
Nonlinear Optical Properties of Few‐Layer Rhenium Disulfide Nanosheets and Their Passively Q‐switched Laser Application
Authors: Liu Shixin , Wang Mengxia , Yin Siyu , Xie Zheng , Wang Zhengping , Zhou Shuyun , Chen Ping
Published: February 2019

Rhenium disulfide nanosheets (ReS2 NSs) are attracting increasing attention because of their unique layer‐independent physicochemical properties, however, their nonlinear optical (NLO) properties are less investigated. Herein, ReS2 NSs are successfully exfoliated by the sonication assisted liquid phase exfoliation method. Their broadband NLO responses are studied by open aperture and closed‐aperture Z‐scan technique at 532–1342 nm. The ReS2 NSs dispersion exhibits saturable absorption, nonlinear scattering, and refraction responses. Broadband saturable absorption responses are also observed for the ReS2 NSs film on the glass substrate. Additionally, two‐photon absorption response is shown at 1342 nm at larger excitation energy. The saturable absorption of ReS2 NSs makes it possible to fabricate the saturable absorber with the as‐prepared nanosheets. Passively Q‐switched laser operations are realized at 1.06 and 1.3 µm. These results have revealed the potential of ReS2 NSs in versatile NLO applications.
Silicon Thin Films: Functional Materials for Energy, Healthcare, and IT Applications
Authors: Reynolds Steve , Welter Katharina , Smirnov Vladimir
Published: February 2019

The authors review selected topics in the development of hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H), from its emergence some 50 years ago to its present status as a mature thin‐film semiconductor, with market successes including flat‐panel displays, solar modules, and x‐ray scanners. By altering process gas mixtures and deposition conditions, films with a range of atomic, structural, and amorphous/crystalline phase compositions may be deposited, offering tunable bandgap, refractive index, and light‐scattering properties. Films thus “functionalized” have greatly increased scope and utility. Three emerging applications are reported, and more extensive sections on two topics of current importance are presented: 1) Multi‐junction thin film silicon solar cells for water splitting applications; and 2) thin‐film silicon solar cells on flexible substrates.
Coherent Polariton Modes and Lasing in ZnO Nano‐ and Microwires
Authors: Schmidt‐Grund Rüdiger , Michalsky Tom , Wille Marcel , Grundmann Marius
Published: February 2019

This article presents a topical literature survey on types of coherent states in bare and functionalized ZnO nano‐ and microwire microcavities, together with own new approaches of the authors. By optical excitation, coherent emission from electron–hole plasma and from exciton‐polariton Bose–Einstein condensates, both up to room temperature, have been observed by various research groups. The impact of the interplay between the excitation properties and geometry of the structures as well as of the charge carrier dynamics on the emission behavior of the structures has been discussed. For different cavity types spectrally tunable mono‐/dual‐mode laser operation as well as propagation of coherent polariton states have been demonstrated. Further functionalization of the bare structures in hybrid systems allows optimization and engineering of the cavity as well as the polariton mode structure and the design of sophisticated light–matter states.
Towards Highly‐Precise Tunable Electro‐Modulator Based on Franz–Keldysh Effect
Authors: Zielińska‐Raczyńska Sylwia , Ziemkiewicz David , Czajkowski Gerard , Karpiński Karol
Published: February 2019

An efficient and precise tool for steering on‐demand the periodicity and amplitude of electro‐modulations based on solid‐state is of great importance for quantum engineering. In Cu2O crystal, the excitons created by electromagnetic waves can be used to design a flexible device which enables the control of absorption oscillations above the gap. The influence of exterior parameters such as temperature and electric field, which influence the dynamic of these oscillations, is discussed.
Capacitance–Voltage Measurements of (Bi1–xSbx)2Te3 Field Effect Devices
Authors: Wang Jimin , Schitko Markus , Mussler Gregor , Grützmacher Detlev , Weiss Dieter
Published: February 2019

Capacitance‐voltage (C–V) traces in n‐type‐(Bi1‐xSbx)2Te3/oxide/metal capacitor structures using an AC capacitance bridge are investigated. By tuning the top gate voltage (Vtg) from positive to negative values, the system at the interface is tuned from accumulation, via depletion into inversion. The results show the typical low‐frequency and high frequency C–V traces, depending on measuring frequency, temperature, and illumination intensity and reflecting their sensitive dependence on recombination/generation rates. Superimposed a strong hysteresis under inversion is also observed which is ascribed to the presence of conventional localized surface states (LSS) which coexist with topological surface states (TSS).
Experimental Implementation of a Quantum Autoencoder via Quantum Adders
Authors: Ding Yongcheng , Lamata Lucas , Sanz Mikel , Chen Xi , Solano Enrique
Published: February 2019

Quantum autoencoders allow for reducing the amount of resources in a quantum computation by mapping the original Hilbert space onto a reduced space with the relevant information. Recently, it is proposed to employ approximate quantum adders to implement quantum autoencoders in quantum technologies. Here, the experimental implementation of this proposal in the Rigetti cloud quantum computer is carried out employing up to three qubits. The experimental fidelities are in good agreement with the theoretical prediction, thus proving the feasibility to realize quantum autoencoders via quantum adders in state‐of‐the‐art superconducting quantum technologies.
The bank capital channel and bank profits
Authors: Orzechowski Paul E.
Published: February 2019

This paper develops a microeconomic model of banking to highlight an endogenous loan creation process that emerges from bank profits via the capital accumulation of retained earnings and uses a simple bank capital‐loan multiplier to illustrate constraints on lending. The study also analyzes how sufficient net interest margins are important for banks to maintain lending portfolios and avoid financial fragility. The model offers support to bank capital channel (BKC) economists by illustrating how changes in interest rates may influence bank lending through the bank's internal capital accumulation growth rate and on a bank's portfolio choices.
Air‐Stable Solar Cells with 0.7 V Open‐Circuit Voltage Using Selenized Antimony Sulfide Absorbers Prepared by Hydrazine‐Free Solution Method
Authors: Cheng Jiang , Hu Rong , Wang Kun , Meng Xiang , Li Ying , Yang Xin , Liao Xiaoqing , Li Lu , Chong Kok Boon
Published: February 2019

Antimony chalcogenide is a promising absorber material for photovoltaic (PV) cells because of its tunable band gap, strong optical absorption, earth‐abundant, and nontoxic constituents. Here, a novel hydrazine‐free approach for fabricating antimony chalcogenide films prepared via spray pyrolysis deposition with further selenylation, as well as high performance solar cells are reported. The fabricated antimony chalcogenide solar cells exhibits remarkably high open‐circuit voltage (VOC) comparing with that of Sb2Se3 and Sb2S3 devices. The distribution of Se during the selenylation process via refering to the Fick's second law is discussed. The results show that the selenized absorber has tremendously improved absorbance for visible light and a cascade‐type energy level from surface to bulk, resulting in an ideal energy level matching for p‐n junction. By introducing an efficient buffer layer, the detrimental short‐circuit is avoided by reducing the cracks. Finally, 4.57% of the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the solar cell is achieved. Furthermore, a module with a large‐scale active area of 21 cm2 is successfully fabricated, which shows a PCE of 3.19%, and a VOC of 3.42 V. The present work suggests that the antimony chalcogenide solar cells are promising for industrial application.
A novel security scheme for behavioral authentication systems based on keystroke dynamics
Authors: Salem Asma , Obaidat Mohammad S.
Published: February 2019

This article presents a comprehensive analysis behavioral authentication systems based on keystroke dynamics using android mobile devices. Behavioral security authentication is an efficient biometric‐based security system that can be used to authenticate users. It is exploited to strengthen password authentication efficiently and inexpensively because no extra hardware is required in most of these schemes. Keystroke dynamic rhythm uses combinations of timing features and nontiming features that are extracted and processed from several devices such as classical keyboard and built‐in software keyboard in touch screen and smart phone devices. This work presents a comprehensive analysis of using biometric behavioral authentication system‐based on keystroke dynamics. Neural network classifiers are used in this work. The performance results show that keystroke dynamics provides good level in performance measures as a second authentication factor. The distinguishable role for nontiming features in addition to the timing features is demonstrated. These features have a significant role in improving the performance measures. The proposed model achieves low error rate of 0.3% for false acceptance rate, a false rejection of 1.5%, and an equal error rate of 0.9%. These are considered excellent enhancements when compared with previous reported results. Suggestions for future directions, and challenges for using behavioral‐based authentication systems are also highlighted.
Combination of BMSCs‐laden acellular nerve xenografts transplantation and G‐CSF administration promotes sciatic nerve regeneration
Authors: Jia Hua , Wang Ying , Chen Jiao , Li Jun‐Ping , Han Huai‐Qin , Tong Xiao‐Jie , He Zhong‐Yi , Ma Wen‐Zhi
Published: February 2019

Peripheral nerve gaps often lead to interrupted innervation, manifesting as severe sensory and motor dysfunctions. The repairs of the nerve injuries have not achieved satisfactory curative effects in clinic. The transplantation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs)‐laden acellular nerve xenografts (ANX) has been proven more effective than the acellular nerve allografting. Besides, granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) can inhibit inflammation and apoptosis, and thus is conducive to the microenvironmental improvement of axonal regeneration. This study aims to investigate the joint effect of BMSCs‐seeded ANX grafting and G‐CSF administration, and explore the relevant mechanisms. Adult SD rats were divided into five groups randomly: ANX group, ANX combined with G‐CSF group, BMSCs‐laden ANX group, BMSCs‐laden ANX combined with G‐CSF group, and autograft group. Eight weeks after transplantation, the detection of praxiology and neuroelectrophysiology was conducted, and then the morphology of the regenerated nerves was analyzed. The inflammatory response and apoptosis in the nerve grafts as well as the expression of the growth‐promoting factors in the regenerated tissues were further assayed. G‐CSF intervention and BMSCs implanting synergistically promoted peripheral nerve regeneration and functional recovery following ANX bridging, and the restoration effect was matchable with that of the autologous nerve grafting. Moreover, local inflammation was alleviated, the apoptosis of the seeded BMSCs was decreased, and the levels of the neuromodulatory factors were elevated. In conclusion, the union application of BMSCs‐implanted ANX and G‐CSF ameliorated the niche of neurotization and advanced nerve regeneration substantially. The strategy achieved the favorable effectiveness as an alternative to the autotransplantation.
A Paradox Involving Representational States and Activities
Authors: Myers Blake ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2019

In this paper, I present a novel paradox that pertains to a variety of representational states and activities. I begin by proving that there are certain contingently true propositions that no one can occurrently believe.Then, I use this to develop a further proof by which I derive a contradiction, thus giving us the paradox. Next, I differentiate the paradox fromthe Liar Paradox, and I show how a common response to the different variations of the Liar Paradox fails to avoid the type of paradox provided in this paper. Finally, I demonstrate how the general ideas behind the paradox regarding occurrent belief can be extended to a wide range of other representational states and activities.
Molecular characterization of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia in ixodid ticks and reservoir hosts from Palestine: a pilot survey
Authors: Zaid Taher , Ereqat Suheir , Nasereddin Abdelmajeed , Al‐Jawabreh Amer , Abdelkader Ahmad , Abdeen Ziad
Published: February 2019

Tick‐borne anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis are clinically important emerging zoonoses usually overlooked by veterinarians and physicians alike. This study aimed at detecting and genetically characterizing Ehrlichia and Anaplasma species in ixodid ticks and their animal hosts from the West Bank, Palestine. A total of 723 ixodid ticks belonging to three genera (Rhipicephalus, Hyalomma, Haemaphysalis) were collected from dogs, sheep, goats and camels. In addition, 189 blood samples were collected from dogs, sheep, camels, horses and a goat from the West Bank, Palestine. All tick and blood samples were investigated for the presence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia targeting a 345 bp fragment of the 16S rRNA gene followed by sequence analysis. The infection rate of Anaplasma spp. in ticks was 6.5% (47/723). Anaplasma platys was identified in 28% (13/47) of them. Whereas, based on a partial sequence (851 bp) of msp4 gene, 38% (18/47) were identified as A. ovis. The species of the remaining 16 positive samples (16/47, 34%) could not be identified. Simultaneously, the infection rate of Ehrlichia spp. in the ticks was 0.6% (4/723). Three of which were E. canis and one was Ehrlichia spp. The infection rate of A. platys in dogs’ blood samples was 10% (13/135), while it was 1.5% (2/135) for E. canis. The infection rate of Anaplasma in sheep blood samples was 40% (19/47), out of which 26% (5/19) were caused by A. ovis as revealed by msp4‐PCR. Implementation of purely‐spatial analysis by saTScan for all cases of Anaplasma revealed two statistically significant clusters in two districts; Tubas town and Majdal‐Bani‐Fadil village on the western hills of the Jordan Valley. Most cases of Anaplasma (83%) were from rural areas where life cycle components (vector, host and reservoir) abundantly interact. This study is the first in Palestine to reveal the presence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia in ticks, dogs and sheep providing crucial platform for future epidemiological surveys and control strategies in the country and region.
DIY XES—development of an inexpensive, versatile, and easy to fabricate XES analyzer and sample delivery system
Authors: Jensen Scott C. , Sullivan Brendan , Hartzler Daniel A. , Pushkar Yulia
Published: February 2019

The application of X‐ray emission spectroscopy (XES) has grown substantially with the development of X‐ray free‐electron lasers, third and fourth generation synchrotron sources, and high‐power benchtop sources. By providing the high X‐ray flux required for XES, these sources broaden the availability and application of this method of probing electronic structure. As the number of sources increase, so does the demand for X‐ray emission detection and sample delivery systems that are cost effective and customizable. Here, we present a detailed fabrication protocol for von Hamos X‐ray optics and give details for a 3D‐printed spectrometer design. Additionally, we outline an automated, externally triggered liquid sample delivery system that can be used to repeatedly deliver nanoliter droplets onto a plastic substrate for measurement. These systems are both low cost, efficient, and easy to recreate or modify depending on the application. A low cost multiple X‐ray analyzer system enables measurement of dilute samples, whereas the sample delivery limits sample loss and reproducibly replaces spent sample with fresh sample in the same position. While both systems can be used in a wide range of applications, the design addresses several challenges associated specifically with time‐resolved XES (TRXES). As an example application, we show results from TRXES measurements of photosystem II, a dilute, photoactive protein.
Neutrino predictions from a left-right symmetric flavored extension of the standard model
Authors: Cárcamo Hernández A. E. , Kovalenko Sergey , Valle José W. F. , Vaquera-Araujo C. A.
Published: February 2019

Abstract

We propose a left-right symmetric electroweak extension of the Standard Model based on the Δ (27) family symmetry. The masses of all electrically charged Standard Model fermions lighter than the top quark are induced by a Universal Seesaw mechanism mediated by exotic fermions. The top quark is the only Standard Model fermion to get mass directly from a tree level renormalizable Yukawa interaction, while neutrinos are unique in that they get calculable radiative masses through a low-scale seesaw mechanism. The scheme has generalized μ − τ symmetry and leads to a restricted range of neutrino oscillations parameters, with a nonzero neutrinoless double beta decay amplitude lying at the upper ranges generically associated to normal and inverted neutrino mass ordering.
Binding complexity and multiparty entanglement
Authors: Balasubramanian Vijay , DeCross Matthew , Kar Arjun , Parrikar Onkar
Published: February 2019

Abstract

We introduce “binding complexity”, a new notion of circuit complexity which quantifies the difficulty of distributing entanglement among multiple parties, each consisting of many local degrees of freedom. We define binding complexity of a given state as the minimal number of quantum gates that must act between parties to prepare it. To illustrate the new notion we compute it in a toy model for a scalar field theory, using certain multiparty entangled states which are analogous to configurations that are known in AdS/CFT to correspond to multiboundary wormholes. Pursuing this analogy, we show that our states can be prepared by the Euclidean path integral in (0 + 1)-dimensional quantum mechanics on graphs with wormhole-like structure. We compute the binding complexity of our states by adapting the Euler-Arnold approach to Nielsen’s geometrization of gate counting, and find a scaling with entropy that resembles a result for the interior volume of holographic multiboundary wormholes. We also compute the binding complexity of general coherent states in perturbation theory, and show that for “double-trace deformations” of the Hamiltonian the effects resemble expansion of a wormhole interior in holographic theories.
Phase structure of the twisted SU(3)/U(1)2 flag sigma model on ℝ × S1
Authors: Hongo Masaru , Misumi Tatsuhiro , Tanizaki Yuya
Published: February 2019

Abstract

We investigate the phase structure of the compactified 2-dimensional nonlinear SU(3)/U(1)2 flag sigma model with respect to two θ-terms. Based on the circle compactification with the ℤ3-twisted boundary condition, which preserves an ’t Hooft anomaly of the original uncompactified theory, we perform the semiclassical analysis based on the dilute instanton gas approximation (DIGA). We clarify classical vacua of the theory and derive fractional instanton solutions connecting these vacua. The resulting phase structure based on DIGA exhibits the quantum phase transitions and triple degeneracy at special points in the (θ
1, θ
2)-plane, which is consistent with the phase diagram obtained from the anomaly matching and global inconsistency conditions. This result indicates the adiabatic continuity between the flag sigma models on ℝ2 and ℝ × S
1 with small compactification radius. We further estimate contributions from instanton-anti-instanton configuration (bion) and show the existence of the imaginary ambiguity, which is expected to be cancelled by that of the perturbative Borel resummation.
Bootstrapping solutions of scattering equations
Authors: Liu Zhengwen , Zhao Xiaoran
Published: February 2019

Abstract

The scattering equations are a set of algebraic equations connecting the kinematic space of massless particles and the moduli space of Riemann spheres with marked points. We present an efficient method for solving the scattering equations based on the numerical algebraic geometry. The cornerstone of our method is the concept of the physical homotopy between different points in the kinematic space, which naturally induces a homotopy of the scattering equations. As a result, the solutions of the scattering equations with different points in the kinematic space can be tracked from each other. Finally, with the help of soft limits, all solutions can be bootstrapped from the known solution for the four-particle scattering.
Integrable S matrix, mirror TBA and spectrum for the stringy AdS3 × S3 × S3 × S1 WZW model
Authors: Dei A. , Sfondrini A.
Published: February 2019

Abstract

We compute the tree-level bosonic S matrix in light-cone gauge for superstrings on pure-NSNS AdS3 × S3 × S3 × S1. We show that it is proportional to the identity and that it takes the same form as for AdS3 × S3 × T4 and for flat space. Based on this, we make a conjecture for the exact worldsheet S matrix and derive the mirror thermodynamic Bethe ansatz (TBA) equations describing the spectrum. Despite a non-trivial vacuum energy, they can be solved in closed form and coincide with a simple set of Bethe ansatz equations — again much like AdS3 × S3 × T4 and flat space. This suggests that the model may have an integrable spin-chain interpretation. Finally, as a check of our proposal, we compute the spectrum from the worldsheet CFT in the case of highest-weight representations of the underlying Kač-Moody algebras, and show that the mirror-TBA prediction matches it on the nose.
Charged rotating black holes in higher dimensions
Authors: Andrade Tomás , Emparan Roberto , Licht David
Published: February 2019

Abstract

We use a recent implementation of the large D expansion in order to construct the higher-dimensional Kerr-Newman black hole and also new charged rotating black bar solutions of the Einstein-Maxwell theory, all with rotation along a single plane. We describe the space of solutions, obtain their quasinormal modes, and study the appearance of instabilities as the horizons spread along the plane of rotation. Generically, the presence of charge makes the solutions less stable. Instabilities can appear even when the angular momentum of the black hole is small, as long as the charge is sufficiently large. We expect that, although our study is performed in the limit D → ∞, the results provide a good approximation for charged rotating black holes at finite D ≥ 6.