bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asian needle ant (Brachyponera chinensis) and woodland ant responses to repeated applications of fuel reduction methods
Authors: Campbell Joshua W. , Grodsky Steven M. , Halbritter Dale A. , Vigueira Patrick A. , Vigueira Cynthia C. , Keller Oliver , Greenberg Cathryn H.
Published: January 2019

Ants (Formicidae: Hymenoptera) are important components of forest ecosystems and can be affected by fuel reduction forest management practices. We assessed the impact of repeated applications of fuel reduction treatments on abundance and diversity of ants within upland mixed‐hardwood forests in the Southern Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina, USA. We established three replicate blocks (~56 ha each) and split each block into four fuel reduction treatments, which included prescribed burning (B), mechanical felling (M), a combination of prescribed burning and mechanical felling (MB), and a control (C; i.e., no treatment). We implemented treatments multiple times (two mechanical thinnings and four prescribed burns) over the course of a 15‐yr period. Due to tree mortality and resultant canopy gaps from high‐severity burns, forest structure was dramatically altered in MB. Over a 3‐yr period (2014–2016), we captured 54,219 ants comprised of 23 genera using pitfall and colored pan traps.Prenolepis impariswas the most common ant species collected, and it was significantly lower in abundance in MB than all other treatments. However, the non‐native speciesBrachyponera chinensiswas more abundant in MB than all other treatments. Thus, some fuel reduction treatments may have consequences for invasive ant colonization in forests. Most ant taxa did not differ in abundance among treatments, suggesting that some fuel reduction practices may affect some, but not all ant species. Our results indicate that some fuel reduction treatments can alter forest ant communities, thus contributing to changing forest ecosystem dynamics. Monitoring of ants and other bioindicators after repeated rounds of fuel reduction treatments could provide useful knowledge that can be used to help balance forest management and biological diversity.
Plant–pollinator networks in grassland working landscapes reveal seasonal shifts in network structure and composition
Authors: Bendel Cayla R. , Kral‐O'Brien Katherine C. , Hovick Torre J. , Limb Ryan F. , Harmon Jason P.
Published: January 2019

Declines in native bee populations can limit pollination services that support native plant communities and global food production. Mitigating the impacts on pollinators and ecosystems requires conservation actions that promote biodiversity and remain practical for producers. We investigated plant–pollinator interaction networks in working grassland landscapes, managed for cattle production and biodiversity, to advance conservation of pollinators in grazed systems. We compared and plotted interactions at the network level. We then used a regression framework to evaluate the influence of floristic availability on pollinator abundance in our system. Overall, we detected seasonal shifts at the network level, with increased specialization between flowers and bees occurring at the end of the sampling season. Furthermore, the response to floristic resources differed between honey bees (Apis mellifera) and native bees. While honey bee abundance increased with exotic floral abundance, native bee abundance showed no relationship with floral abundance and instead was positively associated with floral richness in our system. These findings could be an indication of seasonal shifts in bee activity and interactions with plants or a response to the subset of available resources in grazed systems. These interpretations, along with the detected difference in resource use between honey bees and native bees, suggest foraging preferences differ between these two groups and could influence conservation and management strategies. Furthermore, it demonstrates a need to consider how management practices could influence bee communities differentially across the growing season and suggests conservation actions should promote native floristic resources to benefit native bees.
Influence of weak groups on polyelectrolyte mobilities
Authors: Sean David , Landsgesell Jonas , Holm Christian
Published: January 2019

The ionization of dissociable groups in weak polyelectrolytes does not occur in a homogenous fashion. Monomer connectivity imposes constraints on the localization of the dissociated (charged) monomers that affect the local electric potential. As a result, the mean bare charge along a weak polyelectrolyte can vary depending on the proximity to topological features (e.g. presence of crosslinks or dangling ends). Using reaction‐ensemble Monte‐Carlo simulations we calculate the dissociation inhomogeneities for a few selected PE configurations, linear, rod‐like, flexible four‐arm star, and a star with stiff arms. An ensemble preaverage is used to obtain the annealed bare charge profile for these different polymer configurations. Using molecular dynamics simulations within a Lattice‐Boltzman fluid, we investigate how the electrophoretic mobility is affected by the bare charge inhomogeneities arising from the annealed weak polyelectrolytes. Surprisingly, the mobility obtained for the situations corresponding to the predicted charge profile for annealed weak polyelectrolytes are not significantly different than the mobility obtained when all the monomers have an identical charge (under the constraint that the total polyelectrolyte bare charge is the same). This is also true for the stiff rod‐like variants where conformational changes induced from the localization of the monomer charges are negligible. In salty solutions, we find that counterions are affected by the electric potential modulations induced by the topological features. Since the counterions crowd in regions where the electric potential caused by the dissociated monomers is highest, they wash‐out the bare charge inhomogeneities and contribute to a more uniform effective backbone charge.
Combining expert‐adjusted forecasts
Authors: van Dijk Dick , Franses Philip Hans
Published: January 2019

It is well known that a combination of model‐based forecasts can improve upon each of the individual constituent forecasts. Most forecasts available in practice are, however, not purely based on econometric models but entail adjustments, where experts with domain‐specific knowledge modify the original model forecasts. There is much evidence that expert‐adjusted forecasts do not necessarily improve the pure model‐based forecasts. In this paper we show, however, that combined expert‐adjusted model forecasts can improve on combined model forecasts, in the case when the individual expert‐adjusted forecasts are not better than their associated model‐based forecasts. We discuss various implications of this finding.
Sentiment indices and their forecasting ability
Authors: Mascio David A. , Fabozzi Frank J.
Published: January 2019

The success of any timing strategy depends on the accuracy of market forecasts. In this paper, we test five indices to forecast the 1‐month‐ahead performance of the S&P 500 Index. These indices reflect investor sentiment, current business conditions, economic policy uncertainty, and market dislocation information. Each model is used in a logistic regression analysis to predict the 1‐month‐ahead market direction, and the forecasts are used to adjust the portfolio's beta. Beta optimization refers to a strategy designed to create a portfolio beta of 1.0 when the market is expected to go up, and a beta of −1.0 when a bear market is expected. Successful application of this strategy generates returns that are consistent with a call option or an option straddle position; that is, positive returns are generated in both up and down markets. Analysis reveals that the models' forecasts have discriminatory power in identifying substantial market movements, particularly during the bursting of the tech bubble and the financial crisis. Four of the five forecast models tested outperform the benchmark index.
Identifying an analytical tool to assess the readiness of aid information and communication technology projects
Authors: Kaba Bangaly
Published: January 2019

It has been established that information and communication technologies (ICTs) empower the informal sector. However, according to a study, a number of barriers such as affordability, availability, and access lead to the informal sector being a low‐tech environment. Thus, aid agencies and African governments have made notable efforts to promote the spread and use of ICT in Africa in order to support sustainable development in African countries. These initiatives are managed on a project basis. Unfortunately, the success rate of development aid projects is relatively low. Several explanations have been given for these failures. We performed a conceptual analysis where we identify the important drivers that should be considered when assessing the likelihood of success of these projects, namely, project readiness, before such projects are implemented. The analytical framework that is proposed will contribute to the success of ICT projects.
The pathogenesis of tuberculous meningitis
Authors: Davis Angharad Grace , Rohlwink Ursula Karin , Proust Alizé , Figaji Anthony A , Wilkinson Robert J
Published: January 2019

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of death globally. Dissemination of TB to the brain results in the most severe form of extrapulmonary TB, tuberculous meningitis (TBM), which represents a medical emergency associated with high rates of mortality and disability. Via various mechanisms the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) bacillus disseminates from the primary site of infection and overcomes protective barriers to enter the CNS. There it induces an inflammatory response involving both the peripheral and resident immune cells, which initiates a cascade of pathologic mechanisms that may either contain the disease or result in significant brain injury. Here we review the steps from primary infection to cerebral disease, factors that contribute to the virulence of the organism and the vulnerability of the host and discuss the immune response and the clinical manifestations arising. Priorities for future research directions are suggested.

Review on how morbidity and mortality caused by tuberculous meningitis is mediated by a dysregulated immune response.
Megakaryocytes as immune cells
Authors: Cunin Pierre , Nigrovic Peter A
Published: January 2019

Platelets play well-recognized roles in inflammation, but their cell of origin—the megakaryocyte—is not typically considered an immune lineage. Megakaryocytes are large polyploid cells most commonly identified in bone marrow. Egress via sinusoids enables migration to the pulmonary capillary bed, where elaboration of platelets can continue. Beyond receptors involved in hemostasis and thrombosis, megakaryocytes express receptors that confer immune sensing capacity, including TLRs and Fc-γ receptors. They control the proliferation of hematopoietic cells, facilitate neutrophil egress from marrow, possess the capacity to cross-present antigen, and can promote systemic inflammation through microparticles rich in IL-1. Megakaryocytes internalize other hematopoietic lineages, especially neutrophils, in an intriguing cell-in-cell interaction termed emperipolesis. Together, these observations implicate megakaryocytes as direct participants in inflammation and immunity.
Effects of dietary fatty acid content on humeral cartilage and bone structure in a mouse model of diet‐induced obesity
Authors: Votava Lauren , Schwartz Andrea G. , Harasymowicz Natalia S. , Wu Chia‐Lung , Guilak Farshid
Published: January 2019

Obesity is a primary risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA), and previous studies have shown that dietary content may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cartilage and bone in knee OA. Several previous studies have shown that the ratio of ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), ω‐6 PUFAs, and saturated fatty acids can significantly influence bone structure and OA progression. However, the influence of obesity or dietary fatty acid content on shoulder OA is not well understood. The goal of this study was to investigate the role of dietary fatty acid content on bone and cartilage structure in the mouse shoulder in a model of diet‐induced obesity. For 24 weeks, mice were fed control or high‐fat diets supplemented with ω‐3 PUFAs, ω‐6 PUFAs, or saturated fatty acids. The humeral heads were analyzed for bone morphometry and mineral density by microCT. Cartilage structure and joint synovitis were determined by histological grading, and microscale mechanical properties of the cartilage extracellular and pericellular matrices were quantified using atomic force microscopy. Diet‐induced obesity significantly altered bone morphology and mineral density in a manner that was dependent on dietary free fatty acid content. In general, high‐fat diet groups showed decreased bone quality, with the ω‐3 diet being partially protective. Cartilage mechanical properties and OA scores showed no changes with obesity or diet. These findings are consistent with clinical literature showing little if any relationship between obesity and shoulder OA (unlike knee OA), but suggest that diet‐induced obesity may influence other joint tissues. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Enhancement of the chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells and cartilage repair by ghrelin
Authors: Fan Litong , Chen Jiaqing , Tao Yanmeng , Heng Boon Chin , Yu Jiakuo , Yang Zheng , Ge Zigang
Published: January 2019

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) is commonly utilized in chondrogenic differentiation protocols, but this often results in incomplete maturation of the derived chondrocytes. Gene expression analysis, quantitation of sulfated glycosaminoglycan and collagen, and histological staining were performed to assess the effects of ghrelin. The signaling pathways involved were investigated with inhibitors or targeted by shRNAs. Joint cavity delivery of TGF‐β with or without ghrelin, within a rat cartilage defect model was performed to evaluate the in vivo effects of ghrelin. Ghrelin dramatically enhanced gene expression levels of SOX9, ACAN, and COL II and resulted in increased synthesis of sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) and collagen in vitro. Combined treatment with TGF‐β and ghrelin synergistically enhanced the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and DMNT3A, which accounted for increased expression of chondrogenic genes. Delivery of ghrelin in combination with TGF‐β after MSC implantation within a rat osteochondral defect model significantly enhanced de novo cartilage regeneration, as compared to delivery with TGF‐β alone. In conclusion, ghrelin could significantly enhance MSC chondrogenic differentiation in vitro and can also enhance cartilage regeneration in vivo when used in combination with TGF‐β. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1387–1397, 2019.
Evidence for regional‐scale controls on eelgrass (Zostera marina) and mesograzer community structure in upwelling‐influenced estuaries
Authors: Hayduk Jennifer L. , Hacker Sally D. , Henderson Jeremy S. , Tomas Fiona
Published: January 2019

Community structure and function in ecosystems are dependent on top‐down and bottom‐up factors, which vary across local, regional, and temporal scales. In estuaries of the U.S. Pacific Northwest coast, eelgrass (Zostera marina) ecosystems are exposed to latitudinally varying oceanographic inputs in the form of ocean upwelling. Previous research suggests that ocean upwelling is critical to eelgrass and ulvoid macroalgae abundance, but the degree to which secondary producers are controlled by processes at regional vs. local scales is unknown. Here, we consider the relationships among primary producers (eelgrass, ulvoid macroalgae, and epiphytic microalgae), epifaunal mesograzers, and mesopredator fish within and across three Oregon, U.S.A., estuaries during a spring–summer season to examine the role of multiple scales in structuring these communities. Our objectives were to determine the relative importance of local and regional scales in organizing eelgrass communities and the potential of regional oceanography and trophic interactions in regulating patterns of primary producers in this system. We found that regional and seasonal patterns strongly influenced eelgrass community structure, providing support for the hypothesis that regional bottom‐up forcing predominantly controls these assemblages. Additionally, local effects were important to the patterns of primary producers, mesograzers, and mesopredator fish at specific sites, suggesting limited top–down control. Regarding management and conservation, the implications of our results are that in these highly productive systems, the potential for consumers to moderate the effects of eutrophication may be limited.
Benthic microalgae offset the sediment carbon dioxide emission in subtropical mangrove in cold seasons
Authors: Chen Shunyang , Chmura Gail L. , Wang Yu , Yu Dan , Ou Danyun , Chen Bin , Ye Yong , Chen Guangcheng
Published: January 2019

Our study examined the relationship of microphytobenthos to greenhouse gas fluxes from sediments of a subtropical mangrove forest and adjacent mudflat in the Jiulong River Estuary, South China. The relationship between chlorophyll a concentration at the sediment surface and diatom density confirmed that these microalgae were the important component of the microphytobenthos, which produced an observable biofilm in cold seasons (winter and spring) on both the mangrove and mudflat sediment surfaces. Fluxes of methane and nitrous oxide were not affected by the microalgae film and were similar between the mangrove and mudflat. However, benthic microalgae affected the sediment to atmosphere carbon dioxide (CO2) flux, and the effect was temporally variable with the seasonal change in microalgae abundance. In the cold seasons, the mangrove sediment was a CO2 sink under light chambers but a source under dark chambers. In summer, when there was no visible microalgae film at the sediment surface, the intertidal sediments had CO2 emissions and comparable fluxes between the two chambers. The negative daily CO2 fluxes of the film‐covered sediment (as the average of the dark and light fluxes) and positive flux of the sediment without visible biofilm indicated that the occurrence of microalgae film converted the mangrove sediment from a CO2 source to a sink and that the photosynthesis of the microalgae film offset the sediment respiration during the cold seasons in this study. We also found similar effects of microalgae on CO2 fluxes on the nonvegetated mudflat.
One‐Step Labeling of Collagen Hydrogels with Polydopamine and Manganese Porphyrin for Non‐Invasive Scaffold Tracking on Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Szulc Daniel Andrzej , Cheng Hai‐Ling Margaret
Published: January 2019

Biomaterial scaffolds are the cornerstone to supporting 3D tissue growth. Optimized scaffold design is critical to successful regeneration, and this optimization requires accurate knowledge of the scaffold's interaction with living tissue in the dynamic in vivo milieu. Unfortunately, non‐invasive methods that can probe scaffolds in the intact living subject are largely underexplored, with imaging‐based assessment relying on either imaging cells seeded on the scaffold or imaging scaffolds that have been chemically altered. In this work, the authors develop a broadly applicable magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method to image scaffolds directly. A positive‐contrast “bright” manganese porphyrin (MnP) agent for labeling scaffolds is used to achieve high sensitivity and specificity, and polydopamine, a biologically derived universal adhesive, is employed for adhering the MnP. The technique was optimized in vitro on a prototypic collagen gel, and in vivo assessment was performed in rats. The results demonstrate superior in vivo scaffold visualization and the potential for quantitative tracking of degradation over time. Designed with ease of synthesis in mind and general applicability for the continuing expansion of available biomaterials, the proposed method will allow tissue engineers to assess and fine‐tune the in vivo behavior of their scaffolds for optimal regeneration.
Anionic Grafting to Strategies for Functional Polymethacrylates: Convenient Preparation of Stimuli‐Responsive Block Copolymer Architectures
Authors: Appold Michael , Bareuther Jennifer , Gallei Markus
Published: January 2019

Functional block copolymers (BCP) are promising candidates for many important applications in fields of separations technologies, drug delivery, or (nano)lithography. Here, a universal strategy is described for the preparation of functional poly(methacrylate)s grafted (PMA) to polystyrene‐block‐polyisoprene (PS‐b‐PI) BCPs via a convenient postmodification strategy. PS‐b‐PIs are functionalized by means of hydrosilylation protocols for the introduction of chlorosilane moieties. Subsequent anionic grafting‐to polymerization of different functional PMA macro anions leads to grafted BCP. Various functional and non‐functional homopolymers, that is, poly(di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate), poly(methacrylic acid), and poly(3‐methacryloxypropyl)heptaisobutyl‐T8‐silsesquioxane as well as poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(n‐butyl methacrylate), poly(iso‐propyl methacrylate), poly(tert‐butyl methacrylate), and poly(2‐hydroxy ethyl methacrylate) are block‐selectively incorporated into the PI segment. Applied grafting strategies for the non‐functional PMA derivatives, which feature different sizes of the alkyl substituent, reveal a strong influence on the grafting‐to efficiency. The grafted BCP architectures are capable of undergoing microphase separation in the bulk state, while the resulting morphology is significantly influenced by the introduction of PMA segments as shown by transmission electron microscopy measurements. Additionally, the structure formation and pH‐switching capability of the poly(methacrylic acid)‐grafted BCP is studied by dynamic light scattering, proving the feasibility for the herein investigated synthesis strategy.
On functions with one‐dimensional holomorphic extension property in circular domains
Authors: Kytmanov Alexander M. , Myslivets Simona G.
Published: January 2019

In this paper we consider continuous functions given on the boundary of a circular bounded domain D in , , and having the one‐dimensional holomorphic extension property along family of complex lines, passing through a finite number of points of D. We study the problem of existence of holomorphic extension of such functions into D.
Controlling of reheated quenching temperature of 1000 MPa grade steel plate for hydropower station
Authors: Chen J. , Li C.S. , Chen L.Q. , Fang L. , Huo S.B.
Published: January 2019

The strength and toughness of 1000 MPa grade steel plate for hydropower station treated by different reheated quenching temperatures were investigated. With the increasing of reheated quenching temperature, the yield strength and tensile strength increase sharply, whereas the value of impact toughness decreases slowly. The lath martensite with high density dislocations enhances dislocation strengthening. On the contrary, the acicular or block ferrite (soft phase) produced by intercritical quenching reduces the phase transformation strengthening. Moreover, the ferrite has a low solubility of interstitial carbon due to the body‐centered‐cubic lattice structure. The bar‐shaped precipitates occur during the isothermal holding at the intercritical temperature and it will reduce the precipitation strengthening. The ferrite phase and high misorientation boundaries are the main factors that contribute to the toughening of the experimental steel. The lower the reheated quenching temperature is, the higher proportion of ferrite and high misorientation boundaries becomes. Considering the requirements for mechanical properties of 1000 MPa grade steel plate for hydropower station, the optimal temperature of reheated quenching is ∼920 °C.
Antitumor effects of circ‐EPHB4 in hepatocellular carcinoma via inhibition of HIF‐1α
Authors: Tan Yuhui , Du Biaoyan , Zhan Yujuan , Wang Kun , Wang Xiaolan , Chen Bonan , Wei Xianli , Xiao Jianyong
Published: January 2019

The protein EPHB4 plays a vital role in various tumor types. However, few studies into the function of circ‐EPHB4 (hsa_circ_0001730) in tumors have been conducted. This study aimed to investigate the functions of circ‐EPHB4 and the underlying mechanism of circ‐EPHB4 in regulating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The expression of circ‐EPHB4 was found to be downregulated in HCC tumor tissues, whereas circ‐EPHB4 overexpression suppressed cell viability, induced apoptosis, and inhibited cell migration and invasion in Huh7 and HepG2 cells. circ‐EPHB4 levels were negatively correlated with tumor weight, size, and metastasis foci in nude mouse models, suggesting circ‐EPHB4 inhibits tumorigenesis, tumor development, and metastasis. In addition, HIF‐1α and PI3K–AKT pathways were markedly affected by circ‐EPHB4 overexpression. HIF‐1α could potentially be the target of circ‐EPHB4. By overexpressing both HIF‐1α and circ‐EPHB4, the antitumor effect of circ‐EPHB4 should be most probably correlated with HIF‐1α. In conclusion, circ‐EPHB4 is a tumor inhibitor in HCC and functions by inhibiting HIF‐1α expression.
Low‐FODMAP Diet Is Associated With Improved Quality of Life in IBS Patients—A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Kortlever Tim L. , Ten Bokkel Huinink Sebastiaan , Offereins Marleen , Hebblethwaite Clarice , O'Brien Leigh , Leeper Julie , Mulder Chris J. J. , Barrett Jacqueline S. , Gearry Richard B.
Published: January 2019

Background

The low fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide, and polyol (FODMAP) diet is effectively manages irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. Long‐term low‐FODMAP studies rarely report quality of life (QoL). We aimed to determine the effect of low‐FODMAP diet on long‐term QoL, gastrointestinal (GI) and non‐GI symptoms in IBS patients.

Methods

A prospective observational study of IBS patients referred for low‐FODMAP dietary advice was performed. The primary outcome of QoL and secondary outcomes of GI symptoms, anxiety/depression, fatigue, sleep quality, and happiness were obtained at baseline, 6 weeks (T6), and 6 months (T26).

Results

111 patients were recruited. 91.0%, 71.6%, and 50.5% of participants completed baseline, T6, and T26 assessments, respectively. There were significant improvements in QoL from baseline at T6 and T26 (both P < 0.001). Significant reductions were seen in GI symptoms at T6 and T26 (both P < 0.001), fatigue at T6 and T26 (both P < 0.003), and anxiety at T6 and T26 (both P < 0.007), compared with baseline. A significant reduction was seen for depression (P < 0.010) from baseline at T26, and a significant increase was seen for both happiness and vitality (both P < 0.04) from baseline at T26. There was a significant correlation between GI symptom response and change in QoL, anxiety, depression, and fatigue (all P < 0.034).

Conclusion

Low‐FODMAP diet was associated with improved long‐term QoL and GI symptoms, reduced fatigue and anxiety/depression, and increased happiness and vitality. These data support a wider range of benefits for IBS patients consuming a low‐FODMAP diet.
Role of Thiamin in Health and Disease
Authors: Polegato Bertha F. , Pereira Amanda G. , Azevedo Paula S. , Costa Nara A. , Zornoff Leonardo A. M. , Paiva Sergio A. R. , Minicucci Marcos F.
Published: January 2019

Thiamin is a hydrosoluble vitamin that plays a role in several biological processes, mainly in glucose metabolism. There are several risk factors for developing thiamin deficiency, such as malnutrition, refeeding syndrome, gastrointestinal surgery, and alcoholism. Recently, the role of thiamin in critically ill patients has gained prominence, and the prevalence of thiamin deficiency was found to be increased in patients with severe burns, major surgery, septic shock, end‐stage renal disease, and heart failure. In adults, thiamin deficiency presents as encephalopathy, dry beriberi (with neurological signs and symptoms), or wet beriberi (with cardiovascular signs and symptoms). Thiamin deficiency can be diagnosed clinically, and all clinicians should be aware of this disease, especially in patients with risk factors for thiamin deficiency. Thiamin supplementation should be started as early as possible in patients suspected to have thiamin deficiency. Treatment is safe, inexpensive, simple, and life‐saving. Diagnosis is confirmed on a positive response to treatment.
Siyaphambili protocol: An evaluation of randomized, nurse‐led adaptive HIV treatment interventions for cisgender female sex workers living with HIV in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Comins Carly A. , Schwartz Sheree R. , Phetlhu Deliwe R. , Guddera Vijayanand , Young Katherine , Farley Jason E. , West Nora , Parmley Lauren , Geng Elvin , Beyrer Chris , Dowdy David , Mishra Sharmistha , Hausler Harry , Baral Stefan
Published: January 2019

In South Africa, 60% of female sex workers are estimated to be living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Many of these women face structural and individual‐level barriers to initiating, accessing, and adhering to antiretroviral therapy (ART). While data are limited, it is estimated that less than 40% of sex workers living with HIV achieve viral suppression, leading to suboptimal clinical outcomes and sustained risks of onward sexual and vertical HIV transmission. Siyaphambili, a NINR/NIH‐funded study, focuses on studying optimal implementation strategies for meeting HIV treatment needs among cisgender female sex workers living with HIV who are not virally suppressed. Here, we present the study protocol of this sequential multiple assignment randomized trial. In total, 800 viremic female sex workers will be enrolled into an 18‐month adaptive implementation study to 1) compare the effectiveness and durability of a nurse‐led decentralized ART treatment program versus an individualized case management approach, in isolation or in combination to achieve viral suppression and 2) estimate incremental cost‐effectiveness of interventions and combinations of interventions. The primary outcome is a combined intention‐to‐treat outcome of retention in ART care and viral suppression at 18 months with secondary implementation outcomes. Siyaphambili aims to inform the implementation of and scale‐up of HIV treatment services for female sex workers by determining the minimal package of services needed to achieve viral suppression and by characterizing individuals in need of more intensive HIV treatment approaches.
Recent advances on herb‐derived constituents‐incorporated wound‐dressing materials: A review
Authors: Krishnan K Asha , Thomas Sabu
Published: January 2019

Since ancient times, wound dressings have evolved with persistent and substantial changes. Several efforts have been made toward the development of new dressing materials, which can meet the demanding conditions for the treatment of skin wounds. Currently, many studies have been focused on the production and designing of herb‐incorporated wound dressings. Herb‐derived constituents are more effective than conventional medicines because of their nontoxic nature and can be administered over long periods. Herbal medicines in wound healing provide a suitable environment for aiding the natural course of healing. This review mainly focuses on the diverse approaches that have been developed to produce a wound dressing material, which can deliver herb‐derived bioactive constituents in a controlled manner. This review also discusses the common wound‐dressing materials available, basic principles of wound healing, and wound‐healing agents from medicinal plants.
SPE's 48th Automotive Innovation Awards Celebrates Achievements in Auto Plastics
Authors: Malnati Peggy
Published: January 2019

At the 48th annual Automotive Innovation Awards Gala on Nov. 7, SPE's Automotive Division of Troy, Mich. honored 11 category winners, one of which also won the Grand Award as the Year's Most Innovative use of Plastics among 70 or so nominations in the 2018 SPE Automotive Innovation Awards Competition. They also presented a Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Rose Ryntz, vice president of global advanced development and material engineering at International Automotive Components Group (IAC) of Southfield, Mich. Formal prizes were awarded in the categories of additive manufacturing, body exterior, body interior, chassis/hardware, environmental, hall of fame, materials, powertrain, process/assembly/enabling technologies, and safety (see sidebar). The nominations this reporter and judge felt were most innovative follow.
Privacy by Infrastructure: The Unresolved Case of the Domain Name System
Authors: Bradshaw Samantha , DeNardis Laura
Published: January 2019

Digital privacy concerns are primarily viewed through the lens of personal data and content. But beneath the layer of content, less visible issues of infrastructure design and administration raise significant privacy concerns. The Internet's Domain Name System (DNS) is one such terrain. There is already a great deal of attention around how the DNS intersects with freedom of speech, trademark disputes, cybersecurity challenges, and geopolitical power struggles in the aftermath of transitioning the historic U.S. oversight role to the global multistakeholder Internet governance community. However, the privacy implications embedded in the technical architecture of the DNS have received less attention, perhaps because these issues are concealed within complex technical arrangements outside of public view. This article explores privacy issues in the DNS by examining two contemporary, and still unresolved, case studies: the WHOIS system as a de facto Internet identity system revealing website registrants; and privacy in domain name queries, which have historically been unencrypted and therefore reveal personal information about what sites individuals visit. DNS privacy challenges not only demonstrate the important connection between infrastructure and rights, but also exemplify how cross‐border, universal technologies come into conflict with the bounded laws of nation states. It is a critical moment of opportunity to examine these cases because their resolution will help determine the future of basic privacy rights online.
Poly(allylamine) plasma polymer coatings for an efficient retention of Ni(II) ions by ultrafiltration membranes
Authors: Bally‐Le Gall Florence , Mokhter Akmali , Lakard Sophie , Wolak Séverine , Kunemann Philippe , Fioux Philippe , Airoudj Aissam , El Yakhlifi Salima , Magnenet Claire , Lakard Boris , Roucoules Vincent
Published: January 2019

Functional ultrafiltration membranes can be used for water decontamination. Here, we investigate the use of plasma polymerization to modify polymeric membranes with poly(allylamine) in order to filtrate aqueous solutions contaminated with Ni(II) ions. A preliminary study is performed to control growth kinetics of polymer thin films with respect to the energy provided to the precursor during deposition. Filtration experiments then enable to quantify the efficiency of the different functional coatings as for their retention of Ni(II) ions and to identify the optimal characteristics of the polymer thin films. Retention rate as high as 96% can be achieved by this single‐step functionalization process, which is very competitive compared to conventional multi‐step wet chemical functionalization techniques.
Synthesis, Anthelmintic and Antimicrobial Evaluation of New 2‐Arylidene‐1‐(4‐methyl‐6‐phenylpyrimidin‐2‐yl)hydrazines
Authors: Kamal Raj , Kumar Ravinder , Kumar Vipan , Kumar Vikas , Bansal Kushal K. , Sharma Prabodh C.
Published: January 2019

A series of eighteen novel 2‐arylidene‐1‐(4‐methyl‐6‐phenylpyrimidin‐2‐yl)hydrazine derivatives were synthesized by simple condensation of 2‐hydrazinyl‐4‐methyl‐6‐phenylpyrimidine with benzaldehyde derivatives with an anticipation to find new biochemical hydrazones. Detailed structural analyses were delineated by means of their IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS analysis. In vitro antimicrobial evaluation was carried out against two gram‐positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis MTCC 121 and Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 96) and two gram‐negative bacteria (Escherichia coli MTCC 1652 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 741). In vitro anthelmintic evaluations were also carried against Indian earthworm Pheretima posthuma (Annelida) using albendazole as reference drug.
Effect of Lantana camara on the Morphology of Polysulfone Membranes for Water Purification
Authors: Zwane Simphiwe , Kuvarega Alex T. , Mhlanga Sabelo D. , Dlamini Derrick S.
Published: January 2019

Membrane technology has emerged as a viable method for water purification due to the high quality of water that is produced. Flat sheet polysulfone membranes were prepared using the phase inversion method. N‐methylpyrrolidone was used as a solvent and water as a coagulant. Lantana camara of different dosages was used as the polymeric additives in the casting solution. The morphology of the prepared membranes was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and performance of membranes was evaluated in terms of porosity, tensile strength, elongation at break, thermal stability and surface roughness. Results shows that L. camara particles are a pore former and they have the ability to improve the antifouling properties of the resultant membrane from 1.91×105 m−1 to 0.59×105 m−1.
Dyes Adsorption onto Fe3O4‐Bis(trimethoxysilylpropyl)amine Composite Particles: Effects of pH and Ionic Strength on Electrostatic Interactions
Authors: Hu Yaoqiang , Li Kexin , Li Yuting , Liu Haining , Guo Min , Ye Xiushen , Wu Zhijian , Lee Kangtaek
Published: January 2019

Hydrophobic, electrostatic interactions, and hydrogen bonding play important roles in dyes adsorption. Solution pH and ionic strength of aqueous solutions are important factors affecting dye adsorption by influencing the aforementioned interactions. In order to understand adsorption mechanism of dye on the mesoporous particles, Fe3O4‐bis(trimethoxysilylpropyl)amine (Fe3O4‐TSPA) composite particles were used to adsorb methyl orange (MO), methyl blue (MB), and neutral red (NR) from aqueous solutions. Fe3O4‐TSPA particles were found to be effective in removing acidic dyes at pH < 8.5. The adsorption amount of MB was nearly 0.047 mmol/g at pH 2. The adsorptions of MO and MB were found to be significantly influenced by electrostatic interactions. Based on the effect of NaCl on the adsorption, it was concluded that the electrostatic attraction was suppressed by high ionic strength, but suppression was less significant when electrostatic attraction was strong.
Fading Mechanisms and Voltage Hysteresis in FeF2–NiF2 Solid Solution Cathodes for Lithium and Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Huang Qiao , Pollard Travis P. , Ren Xiaolei , Kim Doyoub , Magasinski Alexandre , Borodin Oleg , Yushin Gleb
Published: January 2019

The rapid development of ultrahigh‐capacity alloying or conversion‐type anodes in rechargeable lithium (Li)‐ion batteries calls for matching cathodes for next‐generation energy storage devices. The high volumetric and gravimetric capacities, low cost, and abundance of iron (Fe) make conversion‐type iron fluoride (FeF2 and FeF3)‐based cathodes extremely promising candidates for high specific energy cells. Here, the substantial boost in the capacity of FeF2 achieved with the addition of NiF2 is reported. A systematic study of a series of FeF2–NiF2 solid solution cathodes with precisely controlled morphology and composition reveals that the presence of Ni may undesirably accelerate capacity fading. Using a powerful combination of state‐of‐the‐art analytical techniques in combination with the density functional theory calculations, fundamental mechanisms responsible for such a behavior are uncovered. The unique insights reported in this study highlight the importance of careful selection of metals and electrolytes for optimizing electrochemical properties of metal fluoride cathodes.
A study of the influence of chemical environment on the Li (i = 1–3) subshell X‐ray intensity ratios and the L3 absorption‐edge energy for some compounds of 66Dy using synchrotron radiation
Authors: Kaur Rajnish , Kumar Anil , Czyzycki Mateusz , Migliori Alessandro , Karydas Andreas G. , Puri Sanjiv
Published: January 2019

In the present work, the X‐ray intensity ratios, ILk/ILα (k = l, β, γ1,5, γ2,3, γ4), have been measured for different compounds of 66Dy, namely, Dy2O3, Dy2(CO3)3, Dy2(SO4)3.8H2O, DyI2, and the 66Dy metallic foil by tuning the incident photon energies across its Li (i = 1–3) absorption‐edge energies covering the region 7.8–10 keV in order to investigate the influence of chemical effects on these intensity ratios in the presence of the many‐body effects, which become significant at photon energies in proximity to the Li absorption‐edge energies. The present measured intensity ratios ILk/ILα have been compared with two sets of values calculated using the nonrelativistic Hartree–Fock–Slater model‐based Li (i = 1–3) subshell photoionization cross sections, the Dirac–Fock model‐based X‐ray emission rates, and two sets of the fluorescence and Coster–Kronig yields. The L3 absorption‐edge energy of 66Dy in its different compounds and metallic foil has been deduced from the XANES spectra recorded in the present work. The L3 absorption‐edge energy shifts obtained from these absorption‐edge energies are found to increase linearly with the partial charge on the metal atom (66Dy).
Single‐Molecule Magnet Behavior in Two Tetranuclear Cyanide‐bridged FeIII2NiII2 Compounds
Authors: Liu Xue‐Ru , Jiao Cheng‐Qi , Meng Yin‐Shan , Zhu Hai‐Lang , Jiang Wen‐Jing , Wen Wen , Zhao Liang , Liu Tao
Published: January 2019

Two tetranuclear cyanide‐bridged FeIII2NiII2 compounds [Ni2(L1)4Fe2(μ‐CN)4(CN)2(L2)2]·2ClO4·CH3OH·4H2O (1) and [Ni2(L1)4Fe2(μ‐CN)4(CN)2(L3)2]·2ClO4 (2) [L1 = 4,4′‐dichloro‐2,2′‐bipyridine; L2 = hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borate; L3 = tetrakis(pyrazolyl)borate] were synthesized. Magnetic measurements indicated that both two compounds showed single‐molecule magnet (SMM) behaviors with the relaxation energy barrier of Δ/kB = 68.9(8) K for 1 and 12.6(1) K for 2. Magneto‐structural analysis indicated that the intermolecular interactions played an important part in the slow magnetic relaxation behaviors.
Ion‐Directed Coordinative Polymerization of Copper(II) Pyridyl‐Alcohol Complexes Through Thiane Functionalities
Authors: Schmitz Sebastian , Izarova Natalya V. , Besson Claire , van Leusen Jan , Kögerler Paul , Monakhov Kirill Yu.
Published: January 2019

A mononuclear complex [Cu(HL·S)2(NO3)2] (1) and a one‐ dimensional coordination polymer [Cu(HL·S)Cl2]n (2) [HL·S = 4‐(pyridin‐2‐ylmethyl)tetrahydro‐2H‐thiopyran‐4‐ol] showcase the structure‐directing role of the counterions in their formation reaction: monodentate ligation of NO3– and Cl– induces an octahedral (with two HL·S per Cu in 1) or trigonal‐bipyramidal (with one HL·S per Cu in 2) CuII coordination environment. In contrast to 1 exhibiting no coordinative metal–sulfur bonds in the crystal lattice (space group P21/c), 2 (P21/c) features intermolecular Cu–S contacts of 2.3188(7) Å. The coordination compounds are thermally stable up to ca. 160 °C. Whereas 1 demonstrates the spin‐like behavior of an isolated central CuII ion, compound 2 exhibits weak antiferromagnetic intra‐chain coupling with J ≈ –2.1 cm–1 between neighboring CuII ions.
CONTEMPORANEOUS AND LAGGED CAUSAL RELATIONSHIPS AMONG NEGOTIATED LIVE CATTLE CASH MARKETS
Authors: COFFEY BRIAN K. , PENDELL DUSTIN L. , TONSOR GLYNN T.
Published: January 2019

U.S. live cattle markets have experienced dramatic shifts in marketing methods over the past two decades, changing the way live cattle prices are discovered. We identify relationships between prices of the five major live cattle marketing regions using Granger causality and directed graph analysis. The two approaches complement each other and reveal that interweek and intraweek price discovery roles for given markets differ. Evidence indicates that Colorado, though a minor market in terms of relative volume, has become an important source of interweek price information to other markets.
La linguistique en toute simplicité / Linguistics, simply
Authors: Bouchard Denis
Published: January 2019

La valeur explicative d'une théorie scientifique repose non seulement sur la quantité des éléments primitifs adoptés (principe de simplicité), mais aussi sur la qualité de ces éléments. En linguistique, les propriétés des substances perceptuelles et conceptuelles des signes offrent une base explicative solide parce qu'elles sont logiquement antérieures à l'objet qui est à l’étude. Ceci est particulièrement important parce que le langage est un phénomène neurologique, voire biologique. Moins les éléments d'une théorie linguistique sont spécifiques au domaine langagier, plus ils sont susceptibles d'avoir la granularité nécessaire pour être biologiquement plausibles (Poeppel et Embick 2005).

Cette perspective est celle qui guide mes travaux depuis des décennies. Je l'illustre par l'analyse de plusieurs constructions maintenant classiques dans les études en syntaxe, pour donner une vision globale des conséquences de cette approche. Cette approche méthodologique renouvelle la notion d'adéquation explicative et répond à des questions laissées en suspens dans l'argumentation linguistique des six dernières décennies.
R v Halland the changing perceptions of the crime of bigamy
Authors: Probert Rebecca
Published: January 2019

In 1845, the conviction of Thomas Hall for bigamy was reported as an example of the unequal way in which the law operated, with great play being made of the steps that Hall could have taken to free himself from his first wife by a divorce, were it not for the cost involved. Since then, virtually every account of nineteenth-century bigamy or divorce has included some version of the judge's apparently ‘brilliantly sarcastic’ speech.

But what the judge was reported as saying at the time differs in a number of crucial particulars from what later commentators have reported him as saying. Later accounts have played up the misconduct of the first wife, inflated the cost of obtaining a divorce, and exaggerated the poverty and lowly status of Hall, while playing down the sentence he received and ignoring his deception of his second wife.

This paper traces the evolution of the account over time, and identifies the timing of the various changes that were made. It illustrates how history is used – by politicians, reformers, and scholars – to support both a particular view of the past and to bolster claims as to how the law should change for the future.
Some generic properties of Schrödinger operators with radial potentials
Authors: Poláčik Peter , Valdebenito Darío A.
Published: January 2019

We consider a class of Schrödinger operators on ${\open R}^N$ with radial potentials. Viewing them as self-adjoint operators on the space of radially symmetric functions in $L^2({\open R}^N)$, we show that the following properties are generic with respect to the potential:

(P1)

the eigenvalues below the essential spectrum are nonresonant (i.e., rationally independent) and so are the square roots of the moduli of these eigenvalues;

(P2)

the eigenfunctions corresponding to the eigenvalues below the essential spectrum are algebraically independent on any nonempty open set.

The genericity means that in suitable topologies the potentials having the above properties form a residual set. As we explain, (P1), (P2) are prerequisites for some applications of KAM-type results to nonlinear elliptic equations. Similar properties also play a role in optimal control and other problems in linear and nonlinear partial differential equations.