bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A potential bio‐control agent from baical skullcap root against listeriosis via the inhibition of sortase A and listeriolysin O
Authors: Lu Gejin , Xu Lei , Zhang Tong , Deng Xuming , Wang Jianfeng
Published: December 2018

Listeria monocytogenes (LM) is a classical model intracellular pathogen and the leading cause of listeriosis, which has long been a global public health issue. The successful infection of LM is related to a series of virulence factors, such as the transpeptidase enzyme sortase A (SrtA) and listeriolysin O (LLO), which are crucial for bacterial internalization and escape from phagosomes respectively. It is speculated that targeting multiple virulence factors may be due to a synergistic effect on listeriosis therapy. In this study, an active flavonoids component of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, baicalein, was found to potently block both listerial SrtA catalyzed activity and LLO hemolytic activity within 16 μg/mL. After pretreatment with baicalein, 86.30 (±11.35) % of LM failed to associate with Caco‐2 cells compared to the LM without preincubation (regarded as 100% internalization). Furthermore, baicalein addition may aid in bacterial degradation and clearance in macrophagocytes. During a 5 h observation, LM in cells incubated with baicalein showed significantly decreased vacuole escapes and sluggish endocellular growth. In addition, baicalein directly prevented LM‐induced cells injury and mice fatality (survival rate from 10.00% to 54.55% in 4 days post‐intraperitoneal injection). Taken together, as an antagonist against SrtA and LLO, baicalein can be further developed into a biotherapeutic agent for listeriosis.
Modeling and optimization of ultrasound‐assisted cinnamon extraction process using fuzzy and response surface models
Authors: Cebi Nur , Sagdic Osman , Basahel Abdulrahman Mohammed , Balubaid Mohammed Abdullah , Taylan Osman , Yaman Mustafa , Yilmaz Mustafa Tahsin
Published: December 2018

This work was undertaken to assess and model the influence of ethanol concentration (0–96 v/v %), extraction temperature (40–80 °C) and extraction time (20–60 min) on total phenolic content (TPC) values of ultrasound‐assisted extracts using response surface methodology (RSM) and fuzzy models. Both models exhibited good estimations; however, the outcomes of the fuzzy model were marginally more accurate. The maximization of TPC (149.3 mg GAE/g dry weight) was therefore performed based on fuzzy optimization which corresponded to ethanol concentration of 72%, extraction time of 50 min and temperature of 70 °C. For this reason, the cinnamon extract samples with maximum TPC calculated by using the fuzzy modeling were analyzed and characterized in terms of molecular (FT‐IR) and compositional (HPLC) properties. The FTIR results revealed characteristic bands while HPLC analysis indicated presence of two major components; trans‐cinnamic acid (41 mg/g) and p‐coumaric acid (2 mg/g) contents. These results verified that the fuzzy model is an effectual tool to model and optimize TPC of ultrasound‐assisted cinnamon extract.

Practical applications

In the food industry, it is always necessary to design and develop novel functional foods, food supplements, or innovative health‐healing products using functional additives or extracts such as phenolic‐rich cinnamon extracts. The employment of novel process engineering techniques like ultrasound technology to extract valuable functional compounds like phenolics increases extraction efficiency and enhances the functionality of such compounds, offering a more cost‐effective process. In this respect, it is of great importance to discover and determine the optimized conditions for processing of phenolics with the maximum phenolic yield. Therefore, employment of predictive methods in different food processes has been regarded as suitable tools to enhance efficiency of the processes and quality of the final product. In this respect, the fuzzy model as a novel predictive analytic tool, along with response surface methodology (RSM) are applied and compared in this study. The fuzzy model established to be more effective prediction tool was applied to model and optimize extraction process parameters with respect to achievement of maximum phenolics yield. Therefore, optimization and estimation of the optimized conditions of phenolic extraction is assumed to improve the quality of the extracted phenolics and to increase performance of the extraction process with the maximum yield by application extraction process parameters.
From Chapel to Meditation Room: A Case Study of Religion and Spirituality on Campus
Authors: Harper Daniel J.
Published: December 2018

Built in 1957, The Helen Mauck Galbreath Memorial Chapel opened on the campus of Ohio University. The charter of Galbreath Chapel states that people of all faiths are welcome and that “no permanent furnishings would be identifiable to a specific religion or denomination”. Sixty years later, The United Meditation Room opened in the University's Vernon R. Alden Library with a similar welcome but a very different interior design strategy, one that reflects the gradual shift from religious identities to notions of spirituality. This case study explored the role of interiors and architecture in defining spirituality and supporting campus desires for religious diversity and inclusion. Informed by an understanding of environmental symbology, the following two questions shaped the investigation: (1) How do architectural vocabulary and interior treatments of the 1957 design now carry meaning which has rendered the previously faith–neutral Galbreath Chapel Western in ideology and religiosity? and (2) How does the interior of The United Meditation Room represent a new model for spirituality, religious diversity, and inclusion? This study found that artifacts of the interior defined each space as inclusive and welcoming in their own time yet identified The United Meditation Room as uniquely situated to represent a contemporary model of spirituality on campus.
Mood impairment is stronger in young than in older adults after sleep deprivation
Authors: Schwarz Johanna , Axelsson John , Gerhardsson Andreas , Tamm Sandra , Fischer Håkan , Kecklund Göran , Åkerstedt Torbjörn
Published: December 2018

Sleep deprivation commonly impairs affective regulation and causes worse mood. However, the majority of previous research concerns young adults. Because susceptibility to sleep deprivation and emotion regulation change distinctively across adult age, we tested here the hypothesis that the effect of sleep deprivation on mood is stronger in young than in older adults. In an experimental design, young (18–30 years) and older adults (60–72 years) participated in either a sleep control (young, n = 63; older, n = 47) or a total sleep deprivation condition (young, n = 61; older, n = 47). Sleepiness, mood and common symptoms of sleep deprivation were measured using established questionnaires and ratings. Sleep‐deprived participants felt more sleepy, stressed and cold, and reported lower vigour and positive affect, regardless of age. All the other outcome measures (negative affect, depression, confusion, tension, anger, fatigue, total mood disturbance, hunger, cognitive attenuation, irritability) showed a weaker response to sleep deprivation in the older group, as indicated by age*sleep deprivation interactions (ps < 0.05). The results show that older adults are emotionally less affected by sleep deprivation than young adults. This tolerance was mainly related to an attenuated increase in negative mood. This could possibly be related to the well‐known positivity effect, which suggests that older adults prioritize regulating their emotions to optimize well‐being. The results also highlight that caution is warranted when generalizing results from sleep deprivation studies across the adult lifespan.
Tulathromycin enhances humoral but not cellular immune response in pigs vaccinated against swine influenza
Authors: Pomorska‐Mól Małgorzata , Kwit Krzysztof , Czyżewska‐Dors Ewelina , Pejsak Zygmunt
Published: December 2018

The effect of a standard, single dose therapy with tulathromycin was investigated on the postvaccinal humoral and cellular immune response in pigs vaccinated against swine influenza. Forty‐five pigs, divided into 3 groups, were used (control not vaccinated (C, n = 15), control vaccinated (CV, n = 15), and experimentally received tulathromycin (TUL, n = 15)). For vaccination of pigs, an inactivated, commercial vaccine was used. Pigs from TUL group received single dose of tulathromycin intramuscularly, at the recommended dose (2.5 mg/kg body weight). Pigs from TUL and CV groups were vaccinated at 8 and 10 weeks of age. The specific humoral and cellular immune response against swine influenza virus (SIV) was evaluated. The results of present study showed that humoral postvaccinal response after vaccination against SIV can be modulated by treatment with tulathromycin. In pigs from TUL group, the significantly higher titers of anti‐SIV‐specific antibodies were observed 4 and 6 weeks after booster dose of vaccine. Simultaneously, T‐cell‐mediated immune response against SIV was not affected by tulathromycin. Our recent study confirmed the importance of defining the modulatory activity of tulathromycin because of its influence on the immune response to vaccines. Since the antibodies against hemagglutinin are crucial for the protection against SIV, the present observations should prompt further studies on the practical significance of recent results in terms of clinical implications (postvaccinal protection) in the field conditions.
The Making and Unmaking of Feminicidio/Femicidio Laws in Mexico and Nicaragua
Authors: García-Del Moral Paulina , Neumann Pamela
Published: December 2018

This article examines the contested process of law-making related to the killing of women which resulted in the criminalization of feminicide (feminicidio) and femicide (femicidio) in Mexico and Nicaragua, two countries in which feminists engaged in legal activism to increase state accountability for gendered violence. Through comparative analysis, we demonstrate the importance of (1) the interaction between shifting local political conditions and supranational opportunities and (2) the position of feminist actors vis-à-vis the state and its gender regime in shaping regional variation in the making of laws concerning gendered violence. In Mexico, the criminalization of feminicidio resulted from a successful naming and shaming campaign by local feminist actors linked to litigation in various supranational arenas, and the intervention of feminist federal legislators. In Nicaragua, the codification of femicidio resulted from the state's selective responsiveness to feminist demands in a moment of narrow political opportunity within an otherwise highly consolidated regime. We also examine the unmaking of these laws through their perversion in practice (Mexico) and their intentional undermining (Nicaragua) at the hands of the state. Our analysis demonstrates how states' decisions to enact legislation against gendered violence does not occur solely because they are invested in international legitimacy, but also in response to states' shifting acceptance of the legitimacy of supranational authority itself.
Judicial Stereotyping Associated with Genetic Essentialist Biases toward Mental Disorders and Potential Negative Effects on Sentencing
Authors: Berryessa Colleen M.
Published: December 2018

This research, utilizing qualitative methodology with grounded theory, develops a model that illuminates a process by which judicial stereotyping associated with genetic essentialist biases toward mental disorders may affect judges' views regarding the sentencing and punishment of offenders with mental disorder diagnoses presented or understood to be genetically influenced. Data, collected through interviews with a sample of 59 Pennsylvania State Court judges, suggest that judges exhibit stereotyping behavior by linking the relationships between three particular genetic essentialist biases (immutability, informativeness, uniformity) and three types of stigmatization (pessimism, dangerousness, family stigma) associated with each bias. When judges exhibited this stereotyping behavior without the effects of intervening conditions, they then expressed how knowledge of the genetic influences of an offender's mental disorder would negatively influence views on punishment, specifically related to more restrictive sentences and support for deterrence and incapacitation. Three intervening conditions associated with judges' personal characteristics (personal experiences involving genetics, strength of determinism vs. free will beliefs, having no personal experiences with mental disorders) influenced whether judges' sentencing views were negatively influenced by such knowledge on genetics. Implications related to therapeutic jurisprudence are discussed.
Design, development, and evaluation of the Maternal Outcomes and Nutrition Tool (MONT)
Authors: McAlpine Janelle M. , Perkins Anthony V. , Vanderlelie Jessica J.
Published: December 2018

Suboptimal nutrition has been largely associated with poorer perinatal outcomes. However, an inability to compare data between biologically and geographically diverse cohorts has complicated determination of the role of diet in such conditions. The aim of this paper is to describe the design, development, and evaluation of the Maternal Outcomes and Nutrition Tool (MONT), a novel cross‐cultural digital dietary data collection tool. The tool was modelled on previously validated food frequency questionnaires and designed for exclusive administration in the digital environment, featuring minimal language and emphasis on images. Participants were recruited by both passive and active means. A total of 502 women were recruited; descriptive statistics were used to describe the cohort. Pregnant women constituted the majority of subjects recruited (n = 376, 74.9%), 63% of which were nulliparous. Women were recruited from 13 ethnicities and 20 countries of birth. Of the 341 women who commenced the surveys (68%), 114 submitted complete datasets (33.5%). Maintenance and recruitment costs equated to $5.64 per completion. Total processing and analysis time for the pilot dataset equated to 12 s per survey. The MONT was used successfully by women from a variety of continents and cultures and proved to be practical and economical in terms resource management.
Suilloid fungi as global drivers of pine invasions
Authors: Policelli Nahuel , Bruns Thomas D. , Vilgalys Rytas , Nuñez Martin A.
Published: December 2018

Belowground biota can deeply influence plant invasion. The presence of appropriate soil mutualists can act as a driver to enable plants to colonize new ranges. We reviewed the species of ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) that facilitate pine establishment in both native and non‐native ranges, and that are associated with their invasion into nonforest settings. We found that one particular group of EMF, suilloid fungi, uniquely drive pine invasion in the absence of other EMF. Although the association with other EMF is variable, suilloid EMF are always associated with invasive pines, particularly at early invasion, when invasive trees are most vulnerable. We identified five main ecological traits of suilloid fungi that may explain their key role at pine invasions: their long‐distance dispersal capacity, the establishment of positive biotic interactions with mammals, their capacity to generate a resistant spore bank, their rapid colonization of roots and their long‐distance exploration type. These results suggest that the identity of mycorrhizal fungi and their ecological interactions, rather than simply the presence of compatible fungi, are key to the understanding of plant invasion processes and their success or failure. Particularly for pines, their specific association with suilloid fungi determines their invasion success in previously uninvaded ecosystems.
Having the right neighbors: how tree species diversity modulates drought impacts on forests
Authors: Grossiord Charlotte
Published: December 2018

Droughts are a rising concern for terrestrial ecosystems, particularly for forests where drought‐induced reductions in tree growth and survival are reported. Biodiversity has long been acknowledged as an important component modulating ecosystem functions, including mitigating their vulnerability to climate‐related stresses. Yet the impact of tree diversity on forest vulnerability to drought is unclear. In this review, consistent mechanisms are identified by which tree diversity could reduce vulnerability to drought and emerging evidence is revealed that tree diversity is not systematically positively related to drought resistance in forests. A path is suggested to further increase our knowledge on this subject in the face of climate change, proposing standardization of methods to quantitatively establish diversity impacts on the drought resistance of forests.
Photostability of Terbinafine Under UVA Irradiation: The Effect of UV Absorbers
Authors: Kryczyk‐Poprawa Agata , Żmudzki Paweł , Koczurkiewicz Paulina , Pękala Elżbieta , Hubicka Urszula
Published: December 2018

The photostability of drugs administered topically on unprotected skin is a complex phenomenon that could be connected with the loss of activity or, rather rarely, the occurrence of toxic degradation products. In this study, an in‐depth investigation of the photostability of terbinafine, in both solutions and formulations, was conducted, taking into account the presence of UV absorbers such as TiO2, ZnO, avobenzone, 3‐(4‐methylbenzylidene)camphor, octocrylene, benzophenone‐1 and benzophenone‐2. The clear photocatalytic degradation of terbinafine in ethanol solution was observed in the presence of TiO2 and/or ZnO. In other cases, terbinafine was stable, with the exception of, in the presence of octocrylene. The presumed degradation products of terbinafine were identified for the first time using LC/MS/MS, and transformation pathways were proposed. In the case of a cream formulation, the percentage of initial terbinafine content was almost unchanged in the presence of the UV absorbers benzophenone‐1, benzophenone‐2 and 3‐(4‐methylbenzylidene)camphor. In vitro cytotoxicity risk assessment of terbinafine based on photostability under UVA irradiation was evaluated using the human skin fibroblast BJ (ATCC® CRL‐2522™), and this showed no statistically significant difference in cell viability for all samples analyzed.
Patterns of Local Policy Disruption: Regulatory Responses to Uber in Ten North American Cities
Authors: Spicer Zachary , Eidelman Gabriel , Zwick Austin
Published: December 2018

Since its inception in 2009, Uber has grown into a technology behemoth, with operations in over 70 countries and 500 cities around the world. Along the way, it has successfully forced regulatory upheaval in hundreds of local taxi markets controlled by municipal authorities. In this sense, Uber is not only a market disruptor, but also a policy disruptor. This paper examines the nature of such policy disruption at the local level by reviewing regulatory responses to Uber in ten North American cities. We find that regulatory outcomes are a function of two factors: Uber’s government relations strategy, either cooperative or confrontational, and the degree to which local governments perceive Uber as complementary or harmful to the existing marketplace. We conclude by proposing a typology of regulatory responses to Uber as a basis to identify patterns in the behavior of municipal regulatory authorities and political leaders.
Cytokine, glycemic, and insulinemic responses to an acute bout of games‐based activity in adolescents
Authors: Dring Karah J. , Cooper Simon B. , Morris John G. , Sunderland Caroline , Foulds Gemma A. , Pockley A. Graham , Nevill Mary E.
Published: December 2018

An acute bout of endurance exercise in adults stimulates a same‐day anti‐inflammatory response which may affect low‐grade chronic inflammation and insulin resistance and benefit cardio‐metabolic health. The anti‐inflammatory responses to intermittent games‐based exercise and to exercise in young people beyond 2 hours post‐exercise are unknown. Thus, the purpose of the present study is to examine the anti‐inflammatory, glycemic and insulinemic response to games‐based activity in adolescents. Following ethical approval and familiarization, 39 adolescents (12.3 ± 0.7 years) completed an exercise (E) and rested (R) trial in a counterbalanced, randomized crossover design. Following a standardized breakfast, participants completed 1‐hour games‐based activity. Capillary blood samples were taken at baseline, immediately and 1 hour post‐exercise, and 30, 60 and 120 minutes following a standardized lunch. A final blood sample was taken the next morning. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. IL‐6 concentration was higher on day one of the exercise trial (E:3.4 ± 0.4, R:2.7 ± 0.4 pg/mL; P = 0.006), as was the anti‐inflammatory IL‐6:TNF‐α ratio (E:5.53 ± 0.93, R:3.75 ± 0.45; P = 0.027). Levels of the anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10 increased on day two of the exercise trial (E:2.11 ± 0.23, R:1.66 ± 0.16 pg/mL; P = 0.032). Insulin sensitivity was enhanced on the exercise trial with a reduction in iAUC following the standardized lunch (E:2310 ± 834, R:3122 ± 1443 mU/L × 120 minutes; P < 0.001). Games‐based activity stimulated an anti‐inflammatory response up to 24 hours post‐exercise and improved insulin sensitivity in response to a standardized meal in healthy adolescents. These novel findings suggest that games‐based activity is an ecologically valid mode of exercise to elicit beneficial effects on cardio‐metabolic risk factors in young people.
Concurrent associations between mothers’ references to internal states and children’s social understanding in middle childhood
Authors: Paine Amy L. , Hashmi Salim , Roberts Siwan , Fyfield Rhiannon , Hay Dale F.
Published: December 2018

Although it is well established that features of maternal speech are associated with children’s social understanding in the preschool years, few studies explore this relationship in middle childhood. Within the context of a prospective longitudinal study of a representative community sample of families (subsample n = 207, mean age = 82.88 months), we investigated concurrent associations between mothers’ internal state language and aspects of 7‐year‐olds’ social understanding, including children’s understanding of belief and spontaneous references to internal states during free play. When sociodemographic, maternal, and child characteristics were controlled, mothers’ references to their own cognitions were associated with dimensions of children’s social understanding. Our findings suggest that exposure to others’ perspectives contributes to children’s advanced understanding of minds, which has implications for interventions that foster social understanding.
Romantic partner satisfaction among low‐income mothers: Links to child‐peer and teacher relationships via mother‐child conflict
Authors: Weaver Krug Chelsea M. , Taraban Lindsay , Shaw Daniel S. , Dishion Thomas J. , Wilson Melvin N.
Published: December 2018

The current project explores maternal inter‐parental (IP) romantic partner satisfaction in relation to mother‐child conflict and later peer and teacher relations from early to middle childhood among a sample of low‐income, ethnically diverse mothers (N = 271) who were part of a longitudinal study testing the effectiveness of the Family Check‐Up intervention. We hypothesized spillover effects from IP dissatisfaction during early childhood to mother‐child conflict two years later. Greater mother‐child conflict in turn was expected to lead to poorer peer relations and greater conflict with teachers in middle childhood. The results support a spillover effect from lower IP satisfaction at age 3 to higher mother‐child conflict at age 5 to poorer peer relations and greater conflict with teachers at school at ages 8.5, 9.5, and 10.5. Mother‐child conflict significantly mediates these pathways. The results support the importance of IP satisfaction and mother‐child conflict in early childhood as critical factors in pathways leading to low‐income children's social relationships at school during middle childhood.
Coproduction and the third sector in France: Governmental traditions and the French conceptualization of participation
Authors: McMullin Caitlin
Published: December 2018

Research on coproduction has tended to assume a coherence of conceptualizations of coproduction across borders, and little analysis of the framing and discourse of coproduction in different contexts has been undertaken. In the French language literature on citizen participation and the social and solidarity economy, the term coproduction is little used. This paper investigates the narratives of French academics, public, and third sector actors in order to identify what, if anything, is different about the French context that explains this gap. Drawing on semistructured interviews, I identify four key narratives that distinguish the French conceptualizations of coproduction and the third sector from the dominant English language coproduction literature: (a) a mainstreaming of coproduction as part of organizational purpose in the social and solidarity economy, (b) an emphasis on formalized involvement of citizens in organizational governance, (c) the motivation of citizen empowerment and democracy over cost and efficiency, and (d) the use of the term coconstruction rather than coproduction. I argue that these narratives are shaped by the governmental traditions of France, which emphasize formal rules, hierarchy, representative democracy, and a suspicion of particularistic interests. I conclude by questioning the universality of some of the axioms of coproduction theory in the English language literature.
A survey of infectious diseases and vaccination uptake in long‐term hematopoietic stem cell transplant survivors in Australia
Authors: Dyer Gemma , Gilroy Nicole , Brice Lisa , Kabir Masura , Gottlieb David , Huang Gillian , Hogg Megan , Brown Louisa , Greenwood Matt , Larsen Stephen R. , Moore John , Hertzberg Mark , Tan Jeff , Ward Christopher , Kerridge Ian
Published: December 2018

Background

This cross‐sectional survey aimed to establish the prevalence of infectious diseases and vaccination uptake in long‐term allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCT) survivors in New South Wales, in order to reduce long‐term post‐HSCT morbidity and mortality and enhance long‐term care.

Patients and methods

Hematopoietic stem cell transplants survivors aged over 18 years and transplanted between 2000‐2012 in New South Wales (NSW) were eligible to participate. Survivors self‐completed the Sydney Post BMT Study survey, FACT‐BMT (V4), Chronic Graft versus Host Disease (cGVHD) Activity Assessment Self Report, Lee Chronic GvHD Symptom Scale, DASS21, Post Traumatic Growth Inventory, and the Fear of Recurrence Scale.

Results

Of the 583 HSCT survivors contacted, 441 (78%) completed the survey. Respondents included 250 (57%) males and median age was 54 years (range 19‐79 years). The median age at the time of transplant was 49 years (Range: 17‐71), the median time since HSCT was 5 years (Range: 1‐14) and 69% had cGVHD. Collectively, 41.7% of survivors reported a vaccine preventable disease (VPD) with the most common being influenza‐like‐illness (38.4%), varicella zoster/shingles (27.9%), pap smear abnormalities (9.8%), pneumococcal disease (5.1%), and varicella zoster (chicken pox) (4.6%). Only 31.8% had received the full post‐HSCT vaccination schedule, and the majority (69.8%) of these had received the vaccines via their General Practitioner. cGVHD was not found to be a significant factor on multivariate analysis for those who were vaccinated. There was a trend toward lower vaccination rates in patients in a lower income strata.

Conclusions

Vaccinating post‐HSCT survivors to prevent infections and their consequences have an established role in post‐HSCT care. Improving rates of post‐HSCT vaccination should be a major priority for BMT units.
A case of Verruconis gallopava infection in a heart transplant recipient successfully treated with posaconazole
Authors: Moran Conor , Delafield Nathan L. , Kenny Grace , Asbury Kara L. , Larsen Brandon T. , Lambert Karen L. , Patron Roberto L.
Published: December 2018

Verruconis gallopava is an environmental dematiaceous fungus that is recognized increasingly as a cause of human disease, especially for immunocompromised persons. Infection can range from superficial and localized lesions to pulmonary involvement and disseminated disease, including central nervous system abscesses. Optimal therapy is undefined. We report a patient post cardiac transplant who had pulmonary infection with V gallopava and was treated successfully with posaconazole.
Molecular phylogeny and hemipenial diversity of South American species ofAmerotyphlops(Typhlopidae, Scolecophidia)
Authors: Graboski Roberta , Arredondo Juan C. , Grazziotin Felipe G. , da Silva Ariane A. A. , Prudente Ana L. C. , Rodrigues Miguel T. , Bonatto Sandro L. , Zaher Hussam
Published: December 2018

Typhlopidae is the most diverse family of Scolecophidia, with 269 species.Amerotyphlopswas recently erected within subfamily Typhlopinae and comprises fifteen species distributed from Mexico to Argentina and the southern Lesser Antilles. Despite recent advances, affinities among typhlopines remain poorly explored, and the phylogenetic relationships and morphology of the South American (SA) species were never accessed before. Here, we performed a phylogenetic analysis including 106 species of Typhlopidae and ten genes. Our dataset represents the most comprehensive for SA species, containing seven of eight recognized species. Corroborating previous studies, we recovered the main groups of Typhlopoidea, and for typhlopines, we recovered with strong support two clades: (a) the Greater Antilles radiation, and the (b) Lesser Antilles and SA radiation. Within the SA radiation, we recovered four main lineages: (a) a clade formed byA. tasymicrisandA. minuisquamus; (b) a clade composed byA. reticulatusas the sister group of all other SA species; (c) a clade composed byA. brongersmianusas the sister group of a clade comprising all Northeast Brazilian Species (NBS); and (d) a clade of the NBS, includingA. yonenagae,A. arenensis,A. paucisquamus,andA. amoipira. We supplemented our phylogenetic result with the description of hemipenial morphology for seven SA species and comment their relevance to the systematics of Typhlopinae. Hemipenes of SAAmerotyphlopsfollow the general pattern in scolecophidians (single organ with undivided sulcus). OnlyA. reticulatusandA. minuisquamushave organs with calcified spines. According to our results, hemipenial ornamentation have shown highly informative and could represent a potential source of systematic and taxonomic characters in that group. We also present an extensive review of the geographical distribution for all SA species. Our study represents the first integrative analysis of a poorly known evolutionary radiation of one of the most widespread SA fossorial snakes.
The Determining of Relationship Between Physical Activity and Perceived Stress Level in Security Service Employees
Authors: Can Sema
Published: December 2018

The aim of this study is to determine physical activity (PA) levels and to analyze the relationship between PA and stress. 178 voluntary male (Mage:33.01±4.70 year) security employees participated in this study in total. The data were collected by self-report using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)-Short Form and Perceived Stress Scale. Mean, standard deviation, frequency and percent values are given in the descriptive statistics of the variables. The relationship between physical activity and perceived stress level (PSL) was determined using the Spearman rho correlation. Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare valuables. The Pearson Chi-Square test was used to examine the relationship between categorical variables and the significance level was set at 0.05. The results show that 53.4% (n=95) of the individuals are physically inactive, 31.4% (n=56) of them are minimally active, and only 15.2% (n=27) are active. It was determined that approximately ¼ of the participants exercise regularly. Negative weak correlation appeared between moderate - vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and PSL (r = -.221; p<0.01). 78.7% (n=140) of the employees have moderate stress. Besides, 67.4% (n=29) of the individuals who work shifts and do PA regularly have moderate stress (p>0.05). On the other hand, 12.6% (n=17) of the individuals who work shifts but do not do PA have high-stress (p<0.05). Individuals who state they do exercise regularly and work on a regular day shift have lower stress scores compared to those who do not (p<0.05). In conclusion, the research reveals that ¾ of the individuals have moderate stress and half of them are inactive. It can be said that less MVPA level and shift system is associated with a higher stress level. Joining physical activity programs regularly and increasing MVPA level can reduce perceived stress level.
Measurement of ultrasound-enhanced diffusion coefficient of nanoparticles in an agarose hydrogel
Authors: Ma Dong , Marshall Jeffrey S. , Wu Junru
Published: December 2018

An experimental study has been performed to measure the effect of ultrasound on nanoparticle diffusion in an agarose hydrogel. Agarose hydrogel is often used as a simulant for biofilms and certain biological tissues, such as muscle and brain tissue. The work was motivated by recent experiments indicating that ultrasonic excitation of moderate intensity can significantly enhance nanoparticle diffusion in a hydrogel. The objective of the current study was to obtain detailed measurements of the effect of ultrasound on nanoparticle diffusion in comparison to the molecular diffusion in the absence of acoustic excitation. Experiments were conducted with 1 MHz ultrasound waves and nanoparticle diameters of 20 and 100 nm, using fluorescent imaging to measure particle concentration distribution. Under ultrasound exposure, the experiments yield estimates for both acoustic diffusion coefficients as well as acoustic streaming velocity within the hydrogel. Measured values of acoustic streaming velocity were on the order of 0.1 μm/s, which agree well with a theoretical estimate. Measured values of the acoustic diffusion coefficient were found to be 74% larger than the molecular diffusion coefficient of the nanoparticles for 20 nm particles and 133% larger than the molecular diffusion coefficient for 100 nm particles.
Linear viscoelasticity of weakly cross-linked hydrogels
Authors: Du Cong , Hill Reghan J.
Published: December 2018

Chemically cross-linked polyacrylamide (PA) hydrogels have been studied extensively, but gels with a very low cross-linker ratio have received relatively little attention. In this paper, the rheology of bis-cross-linked PA hydrogels is examined with acrylamide concentrations ca approximately 10% w/v and cross-linker to acrylamide ratios cbis/ca in the range 0.2–0.9 mmol mol−1. Linear viscoelastic responses were measured during and following gelation. The effective cross-link formation rate increases with the cross-linker ratio, with a plateau modulus that is weakly quadratic in the cross-linker ratio. The gels exhibit distinctly different features from their counterparts in the literature with higher cross-linker ratios. Plateau regions in the dynamic moduli spectra are less pronounced, and the loss tangents are several orders of magnitude higher than for gels with a higher cross-linker ratio but a comparable plateau modulus. Time-temperature superposition of viscoelastic spectra furnishes a disentanglement activation energy that decreases with increasing temperature, from ≈25 to 6kBT. Time-concentration superposition for samples prepared above the percolation threshold furnishes a critical relaxation exponent Δ≈0.38, which is much smaller than previously reported for the universal sol-gel transition. These distinct features can be attributed to the predominance of entanglements. We show that a Wiechert model with a power-law distribution of relaxation times faithfully reproduces dynamic moduli spectra from the creep compliance. Together, the results provide a foundation with which to interpret acoustic and electroacoustic rheological responses (at MHz frequencies) and the linear viscoelasticity of DNA-cross-linked gels (to be reported elsewhere).
Neutrinoless double beta decay in minimal left–right symmetric model with universal seesaw
Authors: Borah Debasish , Dasgupta Arnab , Patra Sudhanwa
Published: December 2018

We present a detailed discussion on neutrinoless double beta decay [Formula: see text] within left–right symmetric models based on the gauge symmetry of type [Formula: see text] as well as [Formula: see text] where fermion masses including that of neutrinos are generated through a universal seesaw mechanism. We find that one or more of the right-handed neutrinos could be as light as a few keV if left–right symmetry breaking occurs in the range of a few TeV to 100 TeV. With such light right-handed neutrinos, we perform a detailed study of new physics contributions to [Formula: see text] and constrain the model parameters from the latest experimental bound on such a rare decay process. We find that the new physics contribution to [Formula: see text] in such a scenario, particularly the heavy–light neutrino mixing diagrams, can individually saturate the existing experimental bounds, but their contributions to total [Formula: see text] half-life cancel each other due to unitarity of the total [Formula: see text] mass matrix. The effective contribution to half-life therefore, arises from the purely left and purely right neutrino and gauge boson mediated diagrams. We find that the parameter space saturating the [Formula: see text] bounds remains allowed from the latest experimental bounds on charged lepton flavor violating decays like [Formula: see text]. We finally include the bounds from cosmology and supernova to constrain the parameter space of the model.
Preparation of Ag-decorated TiO2 nanotube electrode and its catalytic property
Authors: Yue Xiaoyu , Manach Andrea , Dong Junzhe , Gao Wei
Published: December 2018

Novel Ag/TiO2 nanotubes electrode has been synthesized by successive ionic layer adsorption reaction (SILAR) using TiO2 nanotubes as the catalyst support. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis show that Ag nanoparticles have been successfully deposited on the top of TiO2 nanotubes. The Ag/TiO2 nanotubes electrode has a superior electro-catalytic property for hydrazine oxidation with a low onset potential and high current density. The result indicates that Ag/TiO2 nanotube electrode has a potential application for hydrazine sensor and hydrazine fuel cell.
AN ASSESSMENT ON ELECTRICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF Ni/n-Si SCHOTTKY RECTIFIERS WITH AND WITHOUT Ta2O5 INTERFACIAL OXIDE LAYER
Authors: NANDA KUMAR REDDY N. , ANANDA P. , VERMA V. K. , RAHIM BAKASH K.
Published: December 2018

We have fabricated Ni/[Formula: see text]-Si metal–semiconductor (MS) and Ni/Ta2O5/[Formula: see text]-Si metal-insulator–semiconductor (MIS) Schottky barrier diodes at room temperature and studied their current density–voltage (J–V) and capacitance–voltage (C–V) characteristic properties. The forward bias J–V characteristics of the fabricated MS and MIS devices have been evaluated with the help of the thermionic emission (TE) mechanism. Schottky barrier height (SBH) values of 0.73 and 0.84[Formula: see text]eV and ideality factor values of 1.75 and 1.46 are extracted using J–V measurements for MS and MIS Schottky barrier diodes without and with Ta2O5 interfacial oxide layer, respectively. It was noted that the incorporation of Ta2O5 interfacial oxide layer enhanced the value of SBH for the MIS device because this oxide layer produced the substantial barrier between Ni and [Formula: see text]-Si and this obtained barrier height value is better than the conventional metal/[Formula: see text]-Si (MS) Schottky diodes. The rectification ratio (RR) calculated at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]V for the MS structure is found to be [Formula: see text] and the MIS structure is found to be [Formula: see text]. Using Chung’s method, the series resistance ([Formula: see text]) values are calculated using [Formula: see text]/[Formula: see text] vs I plot and are found to be 21,603[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] for the Ni/[Formula: see text]-Si (MS) and 5489[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] for the Ni/Ta2O5/[Formula: see text]-Si (MIS) structures, respectively. In addition, [Formula: see text] vs [Formula: see text] plot has been utilized to evaluate the series resistance ([Formula: see text]) values and are found to be 14,064[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] for the Ni/[Formula: see text]-Si (MS) and 2236[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] for the Ni/Ta2O5/[Formula: see text]-Si (MIS) structures, respectively. In conclusion, by analyzing the experimental results, it is confirmed that the good quality performance is observed in Ni/Ta2O5/[Formula: see text]-Si (MIS) type SBD when compared to Ni/[Formula: see text]-Si (MS) type SBD and can be accredited to the intentionally formed thin Ta2O5 interfacial oxide layer between Nickel and [Formula: see text]-type Si.
Commuting automorphisms of finite 2-groups of almost maximal class, I
Authors: Azimi Shahrabi N. , Akhavan-Malayeri M. , Vosooghpour F.
Published: December 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a group. If the set [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text] forms a subgroup of [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] is called [Formula: see text]-group. Let [Formula: see text] be an odd prime. Recently it has been proven that a finite [Formula: see text]-group of almost maximal class is an [Formula: see text]-group. For finite 2-groups of almost maximal class, the situation is much more complicated. This paper deals with the case [Formula: see text]. We prove that a 2-group of almost maximal class is an [Formula: see text]-group. We show the minimum coclass of a non-[Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]-group is equal to 3. We also discuss the direct product of certain [Formula: see text]-groups and subsequently we give some applications of our results.
A geometry of the generalized quadrangle (Ω,𝔏) of type O6−(2) and Lie algebras of type E6 with characteristic two
Authors: Alkhezi Yousuf , Ata Mashhour Bani
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this paper is to study certain geometric properties of generalized quadrangle [Formula: see text] of type [Formula: see text]. We define certain root elements which generate a Lie algebra of type [Formula: see text] for fields [Formula: see text] of characteristic two. The construction will be mainly based on the geometric properties of the generalized quadrangle [Formula: see text]. In fact, we will explicity construct a Chevalley base of this Lie algebra.
FI-extending generalized matrix rings
Authors: Birkenmeier Gary F. , Davis Donald D.
Published: December 2018

Recall that a module [Formula: see text] is FI-extending if every fully invariant submodule is essential in a direct summand of [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be a generalized matrix ring, where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are rings and [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are bimodules. In this paper, we investigate necessary and/or sufficient conditions on [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] to be FI-extending.
Symplectic isometries of stabilizer codes
Authors: Pllaha Tefjol
Published: December 2018

In this paper, we study the equivalence of quantum stabilizer codes via symplectic isometries of stabilizer codes. We define monomially and symplectically equivalent stabilizer codes and determine how different the two notions can be. Further, we show that monomial maps correspond to local Clifford operators. We relate the latter with the LU-LC Conjecture.
Generalized derivations and some structure theorems for Lie algebras
Authors: Dorado-Aguilar E. , García-Delgado R. , Martínez-Sigala E. , Rodríguez-Vallarte M. C. , Salgado G.
Published: December 2018

In this work, we show that the existence of invertible generalized derivations impose strong restrictions on the structure of a complex finite-dimensional Lie algebra. In particular, we recover the fact that a real Lie algebra admitting an abelian complex structure is necessarily solvable. On the other hand, we state a structure theorem for a Lie algebra [Formula: see text] admitting a periodic generalized derivation [Formula: see text].
Vortex Annihilation Dependence of Chirality in Asymmetric Permalloy Dots
Authors: Wu Kuo-Ming , Huang Chao-Hsien , Shiu Deng-Shiang , Hong Yun , Lai Kao-Fan , Wu Jong-Ching , Horng Lance
Published: December 2018

Geometric asymmetry effect on vortex annihilation was investigated in series of submicro-scaled permalloy dots. By introducing the one-side-flat asymmetric shape into circular magnetic disks, the original degenerate signals of vortex annihilation for different chirality are separated into two different trajectories, where the asymmetry level is quantified by an excised angle. The separation of annihilation field for clockwise and counterclockwise vortex shows as a function of the excised angle. The asymmetry influence on the separation of annihilation field is discussed from the view of disk aspect ratio and flat boundary effect. Comparison of experimental results with numerical simulations is also presented.
What people see versus what people do
Authors: Karamanis Nikiforos
Published: December 2018

The
Interactions
website (interactions.acm.org) hosts a stable of bloggers who share insights and observations on HCI, often challenging current practices. Each issue we'll publish selected posts from some of the leading and emerging voices in the field.
Resistance Distance and Kirchhoff Index for a Class of Graphs
Authors: Yin WanJun , Ming ZhengFeng , Liu Qun
Published: December 2018

Let G[F,Vk,Hv] be the graph with k pockets, where F is a simple graph of order n≥1, Vk={v1,v2,…,vk} is a subset of the vertex set of F, Hv is a simple graph of order m≥2, and v is a specified vertex of Hv. Also let G[F,Ek,Huv] be the graph with k edge pockets, where F is a simple graph of order n≥2, Ek={e1,e2,…ek} is a subset of the edge set of F, Huv is a simple graph of order m≥3, and uv is a specified edge of Huv such that Huv-u is isomorphic to Huv-v. In this paper, we derive closed-form formulas for resistance distance and Kirchhoff index of G[F,Vk,Hv] and G[F,Ek,Huv] in terms of the resistance distance and Kirchhoff index F, Hv and F, Huv, respectively.