bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual entropic and enthalpic processes in the lower critical solution temperature phase separation of poly(vinyl methyl ether) aqueous solutions
Authors: Song Li , Lin Jiaxiang , He Yang , Li Jingqing , Sheng Jing , Jiang Shichun , Huang Dinghai
Published: January 2019

In the lower critical solution temperature phase separation of poly(vinyl methyl ether) aqueous solutions, the process corresponding to the weakening of the hydrogen bond interaction with increasing temperature is dominant and occurs over the entire concentration region of solutions and over a broad temperature range from 30 to 41°C, giving rise to the energetic enthalpic effect during phase separation, while the conformational change, that is, collapse of the swollen polymer coils, occurs only in the swelling polymer solution when the water concentration is above 38.3 wt %, giving rise to the entropic effect during phase separation. In addition, the entropic process corresponding to the collapse of the polymer coils occurs in a much narrow theta temperature range from 35.5 to 37°C. If the solution is held at a constant temperature for a sufficiently long time, 90% collapse of the polymer coils occurs in only the 0.5 °C temperature region between 35.5 and 36°C. Accordingly, in the enthalpic process, the most dramatic blueshift of the νC‐O bond peak occurs in the temperature range between 35 and 41°C, while this blueshift is only approximately 2 cm−1 in the temperature range from 30 to 35°C, prior to the collapse of the polymer coils due to the entropic effect. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 323–330
Sensitivity Prediction of Exploding Foil Initiator
Authors: Chen Qingchou , Ma Tao , Li Yong
Published: January 2019

A novel calculation method has been developed from the physical operating process of exploding foil initiators (EFIs) for predicting its sensitivity. The absorbed energy of metal foil bridge during electrical explosion was calculated using a dynamic resistivity model. The electrical energy is proportional converted into the flyer motion because of the effects of light, heat, and electromagnetic wave. The flyer velocity of EFIs was calculated by the one‐dimensional Lagrange hydrodynamic model with the help of the correction factor. Depending on a developed ignition and growth model, the shock initiation by the flyer impact process was simulated for the built‐up detonation characterization. The current, voltage, and flyer velocity were measured in order to validate the accuracy of the calculating models. The threshold flyer velocity (2.85 km s−1) for initiation of HNS‐IV explosive pellet was determined by the shock initiation modeling. The threshold firing voltages were calculated from the electrical explosion and flyer motion modeling. The calculated sensitivities of EFIs with 0.2 mm barrel length are easily converged to experimental ones, yet that with the 0.4 mm barrel length has an evident error. The breakage and ablation of the flyer have significant influences on the shock initiation at a longer barrel length.
Impact of fungal and plant metabolites application on early development stages of pea powdery mildew
Authors: Barilli Eleonora , González‐Bernal María J , Cimmino Alessio , Agudo‐Jurado Francisco J , Masi Marco , Rubiales Diego , Evidente Antonio
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Pea powdery mildew incited by Erysiphe pisi represents a major constraint for pea crops worldwide. Crop protection is largely based on chemical control, although recently a renewed interest in the discovery of natural products as alternatives to synthetic fungicides application has emerged. Thus, 12 bioactive plant and fungal metabolites belonging to different class of natural compounds were evaluated, together with a commercial fungicide, at different concentrations on detached pea leaves for their potential to inhibit spore germination and subsequent stages of fungal growth. The most effective metabolites were tested at different concentrations in planta under controlled conditions to evaluate the level of control achieved by treatments before, concurrently and after pathogen inoculation. Pathogen development was macroscopically scored on whole plants as percentage of disease severity and area under the disease progress curve.

RESULTS

Cavoxin, inuloxin C and sphaeropsidin A strongly inhibited E. pisi germination and haustoria formation and reduced colony size. This effect was dose dependent. These results were further confirmed in whole plants by spraying the metabolites on plant leaves for preventive or curative control, which reduced fungal developmental of E. pisi at levels comparable with those obtained by application of the fungicide.

CONCLUSIONS

Cavoxin, inuloxin C and sphaeropsidin A have potential as alternatives to synthetic fungicides for the control of crop pathogens of economic importance such as powdery mildew. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Diagnosis and management of chlamydia: a guide for GPs
Authors: Draeger Eleanor
Published: January 2019

Chlamydia is a common sexually‐transmitted infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. This article discusses its diagnosis and treatment, and considers the GP's role in management.
Strain Enhanced Visible–Ultraviolet Absorption of Blue Phosphorene/MoX2 (X = S,Se) Heterolayers
Authors: Gu Di , Tao Xiaoma , Chen Hongmei , Ouyang Yifang , Zhu Weiling , Peng Qing , Du Yong
Published: January 2019

With ultrahigh carrier mobility and large band gap, blue phosphorene (bP) is a promising photoelectronics surpassing black phosphorene and can be further improved by heterostacking. Herein, strain‐engineering of the electronic band gaps and light absorption of two van der Waals heterostructures bP/MoS2 and bP/MoSe2 via first‐principles calculations has been reported. Their electronic band structures are sensitive to in‐plane strains. It is interesting and beneficial that biaxial compressive strain range of −0.02 to −0.055 induces the direct band gap in bP/MoSe2. There are two critical strains for bP/MoS(Se)2 heterostructures, where the semiconductor–metal transition can be observed. The bP/MoS(Se)2 heterostructures exhibit strong visible–ultraviolet light absorption, which can be further enhanced via biaxial strain. Our results suggest that bP/MoS(Se)2 heterostructures have promising electronics and visible–ultraviolet optoelectronic applications.
A branched arabinoglucan from Angelica sinensis ameliorates diabetic renal damage in rats
Authors: Sui Yi , Liu Wenjuan , Tian Wen , Li Xiao‐Qiang , Cao Wei
Published: January 2019

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major complication in long‐standing diabetic patients, and effective therapies are required. In this study, we examined the effects and mechanisms of an arabinoglucan (AG) isolated from Angelica sinensis on DN, which was induced in rats by streptozotocin. The rats were intraperitoneally treated with AG for 8 weeks. Diabetic rats exhibited renal dysfunction, as evidenced by reduced creatinine clearance, increased blood urea nitrogen and proteinuria, along with marked enhanced mesangial expansion. All of these abnormalities were reversed by the AG. Overproliferation of glomerular mesangial cells (GMCs) was halted by AG treatment, and inflammation mediators were attenuated. Furthermore, the AG significantly inhibited the expression of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), both in diabetic kidneys and in high glucose‐induced GMCs. Using an NF‐κB inhibitor, RAGE siRNA and RAGE‐overexpressing plasmid, we further demonstrated that the AG inhibited GMC viability mediated by RAGE/NF‐κB signaling pathway. More importantly, we show that the AG can directly interact with RAGE and disrupt RAGE binding to advanced glycation end products using microscale thermophoresis. These findings suggest that this AG, acting as a RAGE antagonist, is a promising agent for the prevention and treatment of DN.
MJO modulation and its ability to predict boreal summer tropical cyclone genesis over the northwest Pacific in Met Office Hadley Centre and Beijing Climate Center seasonal prediction systems
Authors: Zhao Chongbo , Ren Hong‐Li , Eade Rosie , Wu Yujie , Wu Jie , MacLachlan Craig
Published: January 2019

Many of the current seasonal prediction systems show useful skill in Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) prediction but limited skill in forecasting tropical cyclones (TC). Quantifying the influences of MJO on TC in an operational prediction system is therefore useful for prediction purposes. The results in this study show that forecast skill of boreal summer TC genesis potential index (GPI) anomaly by operational seasonal prediction systems in Met Office Hadley Centre (MOHC) and Beijing Climate Center (BCC) are significantly higher than persistence out to four weeks. In the prediction system of MOHC, stronger MJO initial conditions are conducive to better GPI anomaly forecast, and MJO phases 4–7 make for higher GPI anomaly skill at lead 11–20 days. However, the MJO influence on TC forecasting skill is not so significant in BCC's prediction system. Both the prediction systems could reproduce the relationship that there are larger positive GPI anomalies in MJO phases 4–5 and negative ones in MJO phases 8–1 over the South China Sea (SCS) and northwest Pacific (WNP). However, the intensity of MJO effect on GPI is generally underestimated in BCC_CSM1.2, which may be due to the response of inadequate ascending motion and negative outgoing long‐wave radiation accompanied by weak MJO over SCS and WNP. In GloSea5, the absolute vorticity, relative humidity, vertical velocity and wind shear terms are relatively closer to ERA‐Interim during lead 1–10 days. Considering the intrinsic predictability of the MJO of more than 2 weeks, the forecasted MJO phase information has significant implications for TC genesis prediction on intraseasonal time‐scales.
Landau–Zener Topological Quantum State Transfer
Authors: Longhi Stefano , Giorgi Gian Luca , Zambrini Roberta
Published: January 2019

Fast and robust quantum state transfer (QST) is a major requirement in quantum control and in scalable quantum information processing. Topological protection has emerged as a promising route for the realization of QST robust against sizable imperfections in the network. Here, a scheme is presented for robust QST of topologically protected edge states in a dimeric Su–Schrieffer–Heeger spin chain assisted by Landau–Zener tunneling. As compared to topological QST protocols based on Rabi flopping proposed in recent works, the method is more advantageous in terms of robustness against both diagonal and off‐diagonal disorder in the chain, without a substantial increase of the interaction time.
Influence of leaf age, species and soil depth on the authenticity and geographical origin assignment of green tea
Authors: Liu Zhi , Zhang Yongzhi , Zhang Yu , Yang Guilin , Shao Shengzhi , Nie Jing , Yuan Yuwei , Rogers Karyne M.
Published: January 2019

Rationale

Stable isotope fractionation occurring during leaf growth provides internal characteristics for identifying the geographical origin, traceability and authentication of tea. Studying the influence of leaf age, species and the relationship with the cultivated soil may reveal previously undocumented stable isotope fractionation mechanisms, and provide a deeper understanding of the physiological isotopic effects on the tractability and authentication accuracy of green tea to combat mislabeling and fraudulent conduct.

Methods

A total of 36 pairs of young (one bud with one leaf) and mature growth (older leaf) samples from two species of Longjing tea (Longjing #43 and Colonial cultivar) and corresponding cultivation soil samples from two different depth layers (0–20 cm and 20–40 cm) were collected in Westlake district, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, China. Four stable isotope ratios (δ13C, δ15N, δ2H, and δ18O values) were measured using an elemental analyzer coupled with an isotope ratio spectrometer. Linear correlation and one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) statistical analyses were performed to investigate isotopic fractionation mechanisms during plant growth, and reflect the dynamic physiological processes from soil to leaf.

Results

The carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios (δ13C and δ15N values) reflected the absorption, migration and fractionation of carbon dioxide and nitrogenous nutrients during photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, nitrogen fixation and leaf respiration. The water isotope ratios (δ2H and δ18O values) reflected the use and fractionation of water by tea plants at different growth stages.

Conclusions

Considerable differences were found for hydrogen and oxygen isotope ratios according to leaf age, revealing complex isotopic fractionation mechanisms and possible interference factors. Leaf maturity effects should be considered, as they will influence the precision and accuracy of models when assigning the geographical origin, traceability and authentication of tea.
Impact of freezing and ethanol preservation techniques on the stable isotope analysis of humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) skin
Authors: Hidalgo‐Reza Mariana , Elorriaga‐Verplancken Fernando R. , Aguíñiga‐García Sergio , Urbán R. Jorge
Published: January 2019

Rationale

Distinct techniques employed to preserve different types of tissues may affect stable isotope analyses conducted on samples, and this is critical when field work takes place in remote areas. To investigate this, the stable isotope ratios (δ13C and δ15N values) obtained using two methods commonly used to preserve humpback whale (and other cetaceans) skin samples were compared.

Methods

A total of 54 pairs of skin samples of humpback whales from the southern Baja California Peninsula, Mexico, were preserved in ethanol (90%) and by freezing, between 2007 and 2009. The δ13C and δ15N values were determined using a PDZ Europa ANCA‐GSL elemental analyzer interfaced to a PDZ Europe 20‐20 isotope ratio mass spectrometer. Parametric and nonparametric tests were used to compare the isotopic results.

Results

A significant (t = 4.93; p = 0.000003) variation of −0.92‰ was found between the mean δ13C values in ethanol (from −19.38‰ to −16.07‰; mean = −17.86‰) and freezing (from −20.67‰ to −16.44‰; mean = −18.78‰) techniques. No significant (U = 1314, p = 0.38) differences were observed in the δ15N values. The δ13C values were compared between preservation methods for each of the three years under analysis. Significant differences were observed in 2007 (t = 3.45; p = 0.0012) and 2008 (t = 3.13; p = 0.0030), but not for 2009 (t = 1.66; p = 0.12).

Conclusions

Based on the results of this study, the use of ethanol to preserve humpback whale skin samples collected for stable isotope analysis is not recommended, particularly regarding the analysis of δ13C values. This study serves as a point of reference for future research on humpback whales or other whales involving skin samples preserved by freezing or in ethanol.
Component structure of the configuration model: Barely supercritical case
Authors: van der Hofstad Remco , Janson Svante , Luczak Malwina
Published: January 2019

We study near‐critical behavior in the configuration model. Let Dn be the degree of a random vertex and ; we consider the barely supercritical regime, where νn→1 as n→∞, but . Let denote the size‐biased version of Dn. We prove that there is a unique giant component of size , where ρn denotes the survival probability of a branching process with offspring distribution . This extends earlier results of Janson and Luczak, as well as those of Janson, Luczak, Windridge, and House, to the case where the third moment of Dn is unbounded. We further study the size of the largest component in the critical regime, where , extending and complementing results of Hatami and Molloy.
Sustainable development from millennium 2015 to Sustainable Development Goals 2030
Authors: Halisçelik Ergül , Soytas Mehmet Ali
Published: January 2019

In modern economies, the advancement of well‐being of the citizens should be in an inclusive and sustainable way. In this respect, the sustainable welfare targets should exclusively include three main pillars: economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection. These pillars consist of qualitative and nonmonetary, as well as monetary and quantitative indicators to monitor. Although sustainable development today is well‐appreciated in most governments' agenda, yet it is generally not a trivial task to measure its progress especially due to multidimensional nature of some targets. In this article, sustainable development is measured by using a wide range of indicators within multidimensional perspective of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) 2015. Indicators cover wide spectrum of areas such as poverty reduction, health, education, gender equality, and environment. An index creation method is developed for measuring the level and the performance of countries' progress through achieving MDGs. The index score levels and the rankings of countries are compared with similar indexes developed by United Nations. Finally, countries are classified according to their achievements relative to other countries (which is measured by the index) versus their self‐achievement performances (in terms of improvement of the index over years) in a big matrix. Results demonstrate the importance of measuring country performances in both dimensions. Understanding the progress in MDGs can help settle on binding targets for achieving the country specific goals in economic and noneconomic areas and on the mechanisms to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030, which set amid on the success of MDGs.
One‐Step Synthesis of the N and P Co–Doped Nest‐Like Mesoporous Carbon by a Microwave‐Assisted Ultra‐High Temperature Solvothermal Method for Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Wang Yulin , Tang Xingchang , Han Mei , Li Yubing , Zhang Yameng , He Jingjing , Liu Xuexin , Wang Kunjie , Wang Yi , Zhang Deyi
Published: January 2019

Herein, we report a microwave‐assisted ultra‐high temperature solvothermal method for fabricating a nitrogen and phosphorus co‐doped nest‐like mesoporous carbon under ambient atmosphere. The reported method exhibits high energy efficiency, ultra‐fast carbonization rate, and inert atmosphere protection free fabrication process. The carbonization process of precursor completes in 5∼10 min, and no apparent increase for surface oxygen content is observed for the obtained material even it is fabricated under oxygen‐riched ambient atmosphere. The obtained material fabricated by the reported method exhibits a nest‐like mesoporous morphology and high specific surface area (up to 922 m2 g−1), which nitrogen and phosphorus doping content reaches up to 3.45 and 1.26 at.%, respectively. When used as an electrode material for supercapacitor, the obtained material exhibits good capacitive performance, which specific capacitance reaches up to 171 F g−1, and more than 89.9% of initial capacitance is retained even under a high current density of 20 A g−1, the capacitance retention rate reaches up to 96.2% after 5000 charge/discharge cycles.
Ligand‐Free Cu‐Catalyzed Suzuki Coupling of Alkynyl Bromides with Boronic Acids in Ethanol Under Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Babu Sheba Ann , Saranya Salim , Rohit K. R. , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: January 2019

A ligand‐free microwave assisted synthesis of internal alkynes using copper‐catalyzed Suzuki type coupling reaction of alkynyl bromides with boronic acid derivatives has been developed. This protocol uses cheap CuI, greener solvent ethanol and K3PO4 base under microwave irradiation. This strategy does not need any ligand or sealed tube conditions. This methodology provides an efficient way to synthesize 1,2‐diarylacetylenes in good to excellent yields.
Compositional Dependent Physicochemical and Photovoltaic Properties of the (TiO2)1‐x(RGO)x Nanocomposites for Sensitized Solar Cells Using Ru(II) Dyes
Authors: Dhodamani Ananta G. , More Krantiveer V. , Koli Valmiki B. , Shelke Abhijeet R. , Deshpande Nishad G. , Panda Dillip K. , Delekar Sagar D.
Published: January 2019

This article presents the physicochemical and photovoltaic properties of the (TiO2)1‐x(RGO)x nanocomposites (NCs) with varying the content of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) (x=0.1 to 1.0 wt. %). Firstly, NCs were synthesized via in‐situ sol‐gel route. The compositional dependent physicochemical properties of the powdered (TiO2)1‐x(RGO)x NCs were studied by using various spectroscopic (XRD, Raman, FTIR, UV‐Visible DRS, PL, XPS), microscopic (HR‐TEM with SAED) and BET measurements. Thereafter, thin–films of NCs were prepared by using binder‐free doctor‐blade technique and these films were sensitized with Ru(II) sensitizers. Before fabrication, the anchoring and absorption properties of the sensitizers with NCs were also studied. Finally, the sandwich dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) of (TiO2)1‐x(RGO)x with sensitizers were tested through I–V and IPCE measurements. Among the different (TiO2)1‐x(RGO)x photoelectrodes, T0.925@R0.075 NCs‐based devices reached the conversion efficiency (η) up to 5.98% for N719 to that of 4.76% for N3 device; which was four times higher to that of bare TiO2 with N719 (1.35%) and N3 (1.12%) based DSSCs. The observed photovoltaic parameters of the devices were further supported with the time‐resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements of the (TiO2)1‐x(RGO)x NCs.
Nb2O5/reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite Anode for High Power Hybrid Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Ojha Ved , Kato Keiko , Kabbani Mohamad A. , Babu Ganguli , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: January 2019

Hybridizing faradaic and non‐faradaic charge storage mechanisms permits hybrid supercapacitors to achieve desirable high energy‐power characteristics. Although the hybridization approach increases the energy density, discrepancies in the reaction kinetics, especially sluggish charge‐transfer reactions in Faradaic battery‐type electrodes, curtails the power density. To increase the power density of battery‐type electrodes, an orthorhombic phase of niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5) is one of the most prominent contenders because the orthorhombic crystal structure provides two‐dimensional transport channels for fast Li‐ion diffusion. However, such ultrafast Li‐ion diffusion cannot be realized due to its electrical‐insulating nature. Herein, we synthesized a composite of the orthorhombic phase of niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5) interconnected with reduced graphene oxide nanosheets via facile microwave assisted methods. Such a dual‐conductive composite anode exhibits excellent rate performance to match that of the cathode which operates conventional adsorption‐desorption charge storage mechanism. By combining the composite anode with a nitrogen doped reduced graphene oxide (N‐rGO) cathode, the device delivers maximum energy density of 89 Wh kg−1 (at 125 W kg−1), and the energy density of 20 Wh kg−1 is retained even at 3500 W kg−1, which is one of the highest energy density reported for Nb2O5 based HSC to the best of our knowledge.
Programmable Codelivery of Doxorubicin and Apatinib Using an Implantable Hierarchical‐Structured Fiber Device for Overcoming Cancer Multidrug Resistance
Authors: He Yang , Li Xilin , Ma Junkai , Ni Guoli , Yang Guang , Zhou Shaobing
Published: January 2019

Multiple drug resistance (MDR) of cancer cells is a major cause of chemotherapy failure. It is currently a great challenge to develop a direct and effective strategy for continuously inhibiting the P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) drug pump of MDR tumor cells, thus enhancing the intracellular concentration of the therapeutic agent for effectively killing MDR tumor cells. Here, a new implantable hierarchical‐structured ultrafine fiber device is developed via a microfluidic‐electrospinning technology for localized codelivery of doxorubicin (DOX) and apatinib (AP). An extremely high encapsulation efficiency of ≈99% for the dual drugs is achieved through this strategy. The release of the loaded dual drugs can be controlled in a programmable release model with a rapid release of the micelles, while AP is slowly released. The sustained release of AP can continuously inhibit the P‐gp drug pump of MDR tumor cells, increasing the intracellular DOX accumulation. The in vivo DOX biodistribution displays that the DOX accumulation in the tumor tissues achieves 17.82% after implanting the fiber device for 72 h, which is 6.36‐fold higher than that of the intravenously injected DOX. Importantly, the fiber device shows an excellent antitumor effect on MDR tumor‐bearing mice with low systemic toxicity.
Flexible Zn‐Ion Batteries: Recent Progresses and Challenges
Authors: Yu Peng , Zeng Yinxiang , Zhang Haozhe , Yu Minghao , Tong Yexiang , Lu Xihong
Published: January 2019

To keep pace with the increasing pursuit of portable and wearable electronics, it is urgent to develop advanced flexible power supplies. In this context, Zn‐ion batteries (ZIBs) have garnered increasing attention as favorable energy storage devices for flexible electronics, owing to the high capacity, low cost, abundant resources, high safety, and eco‐friendliness. Extensive efforts have been devoted to developing flexible ZIBs in the last few years. This work summarizes the recent achievements in the design, fabrication, and characterization of flexible ZIBs. Representative structures, such as sandwich and cable type, are particularly highlighted. Special emphasis is put on the novel design of electrolyte and electrode, which aims to endow reliable flexibility to the fabricated ZIBs. Moreover, current challenges and future opportunities for the development of high‐performance flexible ZIBs are also outlined.
Silk‐Derived 2D Porous Carbon Nanosheets with Atomically‐Dispersed Fe‐Nx‐C Sites for Highly Efficient Oxygen Reaction Catalysts
Authors: Wang Chunya , Chen Wenxing , Xia Kailun , Xie Nanhong , Wang Huimin , Zhang Yingying
Published: January 2019

Controlled synthesis of highly efficient, stable, and cost‐effective oxygen reaction electrocatalysts with atomically‐dispersed Me–Nx–C active sites through an effective strategy is highly desired for high‐performance energy devices. Herein, based on regenerated silk fibroin dissolved in ferric chloride and zinc chloride aqueous solution, 2D porous carbon nanosheets with atomically‐dispersed Fe–Nx–C active sites and very large specific surface area (≈2105 m2 g−1) are prepared through a simple thermal treatment process. Owing to the 2D porous structure with large surface area and atomic dispersion of Fe–Nx–C active sites, the as‐prepared silk‐derived carbon nanosheets show superior electrochemical activity toward the oxygen reduction reaction with a half‐wave potential (E1/2) of 0.853 V, remarkable stability with only 11 mV loss in E1/2 after 30 000 cycles, as well as good catalytic activity toward the oxygen evolution reaction. This work provides a practical and effective approach for the synthesis of high‐performance oxygen reaction catalysts towards advanced energy materials.
An Ultrasensitive Silicon Photonic Ion Sensor Enabled by 2D Plasmonic Molybdenum Oxide
Authors: Ren Guanghui , Zhang Bao Yue , Yao Qifeng , Zavabeti Ali , Huertas Cesar S. , Brkljača Robert , Khan Muhammad Waqas , Nili Hussein , Datta Robi S. , Khan Hareem , Jannat Azmira , Walia Sumeet , Haque Farjana , O'Dell Luke A. , Wang Yichao , Zhu Lianqing , Mitchell Arnan , Ou Jian Zhen
Published: January 2019

Silicon photonics has demonstrated great potential in ultrasensitive biochemical sensing. However, it is challenging for such sensors to detect small ions which are also of great importance in many biochemical processes. A silicon photonic ion sensor enabled by an ionic dopant–driven plasmonic material is introduced here. The sensor consists of a microring resonator (MRR) coupled with a 2D restacked layer of near‐infrared plasmonic molybdenum oxide. When the 2D plasmonic layer interacts with ions from the environment, a strong change in the refractive index results in a shift in the MRR resonance wavelength and simultaneously the alteration of plasmonic absorption leads to the modulation of MRR transmission power, hence generating dual sensing outputs which is unique to other optical ion sensors. Proof‐of‐concept via a pH sensing model is demonstrated, showing up to 7 orders improvement in sensitivity per unit area across the range from 1 to 13 compared to those of other optical pH sensors. This platform offers the unique potential for ultrasensitive and robust measurement of changes in ionic environment, generating new modalities for on‐chip chemical sensors in the micro/nanoscale.
Impact of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Germination Process on Starch Properties for Application in Films
Authors: Baranzelli Julia , Kringel Dianini H. , Mallmann Joao F. , Bock Emílio , Mello El Halal Shanise L. , Prietto Luciana , da Rosa Zavareze Elessandra , Zavariz de Miranda Martha , Renato Guerra Dias Alvaro
Published: January 2019

Germination causes several changes in wheat grains that are necessary for growth, one of which is starch characteristics. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of laboratory‐induced wheat germination and pre‐harvest sprouting on starch properties, as well as to examine the application of extracted starch in films. Starch is extracted from non‐germinated wheat samples; pre‐harvest sprouting and germination are induced for 24, 48, and 72 h. Starch is characterized for chemical composition, flour yield, enzymatic activity, morphology, solubility, swelling power, pasting properties, and relative crystallinity. Subsequently, films of germinated and non‐germinated wheat starch are characterized by mechanical properties, thickness, opacity, water solubility, and water vapor permeability. Wheat germination is found to increase enzymatic activity, swelling power, solubility, and relative crystallinity of starch. A significant increase in film elongation is correlated with increased wheat germination time. These results indicate that germination of wheat alters starch properties and promotes production of films with attractive characteristics for future applications.
Hemoperitoneum as a precursor of deep pelvic endometriosis: prospective cohort study
Authors: Bean E. , Cutner A. , Saridogan E. , Wong M. , Naftalin J. , Jurkovic D.
Published: January 2019

Objective

To determine whether significant hemoperitoneum could be a precursor of deep pelvic endometriosis in non‐pregnant premenopausal women presenting with severe acute lower abdominal pain.

Methods

This was a prospective observational cohort study carried out at a dedicated gynecological diagnostic unit over a period of 18 months. We included consecutive non‐pregnant, premenopausal women who attended with severe acute lower abdominal pain and underwent a pelvic ultrasound examination. Women were triaged for surgical or conservative management depending on the cause of pain and severity of their symptoms. Those who were selected for conservative management were invited for follow‐up ultrasound scans. The main outcome measure was evidence of newly developed deep endometriosis at follow‐up examination.

Results

Of 118 non‐pregnant women who attended our unit with severe acute lower abdominal pain, 20 underwent emergency surgery and 17 had a history of endometriosis, or evidence of endometriosis on the initial scan, and were excluded from the study. Therefore, conservative management was employed in 81 women, eight of whom had evidence of significant hemoperitoneum at presentation. A total of 35 women attended for all follow‐up ultrasound scans. At the completion of follow‐up, four of six (67% (95% CI, 22–96%)) women who presented initially with significant intra‐abdominal bleeding had developed new evidence of deep endometriosis, compared with one of 29 (3% (95% CI, 0–18%)) of those without hemoperitoneum (relative risk, 19.3 (95% CI, 3–144); P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In some women, the presence of significant hemoperitoneum that is managed conservatively precedes the development of deep endometriosis. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
First description of a fatal equine infection with Halicephalobus gingivalis in Portugal. Relevance for public health
Authors: Noiva Rute , Ruivo Pedro , de Carvalho Luís Madeira , Fonseca Constança , Fevereiro Miguel , Carvalho Paulo , Orge Leonor , Monteiro Madalena , Peleteiro Maria Conceição
Published: January 2019

Halicephalobus gingivalis is a small saprophytic rhabditid nematode, represented only by females with a typical rhabditoid oesophagus and one egg in the uterus, capable of infecting vertebrates. This opportunistic parasite present in the soil, manure and decaying humus, is thought to penetrate through previous injuries to the mouth, eyes and skin of horses and migrate to various organs. The brain is one such organ, where the females lay their eggs, leading to malacia and causing a sudden onset of neurological signs, such as anorexia, ataxia, urinary incontinence, blindness, decreased menace and tonal reflexes, tremors and aggressiveness. The disease is invariably fatal whenever brain lesions are present, and the diagnosis usually achieved only post‐mortem. The present work aims to describe the first case of infection by H. gingivalis ever reported in Portugal. An 8‐year old warmblood horse presented with an 8‐day history of progressive blindness involving the left eye, initially with normal pupillary reflexes, advancing to bilateral blindness and increasing deterioration in clinical condition. After euthanasia, the animal was submitted for necropsy. Organ samples were collected and fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin for routine histopathology. A large mass was found in the left kidney corresponding to fibrous tissue heavily infiltrated with inflammatory cells and numerous nematodes. In the brain, multiple, bilateral and asymmetrical foci of malacia containing several rhabditoid nematodes, larvae and zygotes, and high numbers of inflammatory cells were found. The nematodes were identified as H. gingivalis. The clinical history, necropsy and histological findings presented constitute a typical case of H. gingivalis infection in a horse, never previously described in Portugal to the authors’ best knowledge. Humans can be infected by contact with contaminated manure, which makes this nematode a public health concern, especially for people living and/or working in close proximity to horses.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Symmetry Relations of the Crystal Structures of Some Bis(dioxane) Adducts of Group 1 / Group 13 Heterometallic Trifluoroacetates
Authors: Czajkowski Daniel , Simon Ilka , Frank Walter
Published: January 2019

Four bis(dioxane) adducts of mixed‐metal trifluoroacetates, M[M′(O2CCF3)4(C4H8O2)2] (M = Na, K, Cs, M′ = In and M = Cs, M′ = Ga) were synthesized by reaction of alkali metal trifluoroacetate and group 13 element trifluoroacetate in 1,4‐dioxane and completely characterized including X‐ray structure determination. Geometric parameters, empirical bond valences and frequencies of the symmetric C=O stretching vibrations show that the moisture sensitive solids are composed of dimeric structural moieties with site symmetry 1, containing alkali metal ions and bis(dioxane)tetrakis(trifluoroacetato)indate or ‐gallate ions. The dimeric units are further connected by weaker “intermolecular” dioxane interactions to neighboring alkali metal ions. Closer inspection of space group symmetry, unit cell parameters and atom sites allows to rationalize the compounds as members of two isotypic pairs that are further closely related due to the group‐subgroup relation of their monoclinc space groups to a common orthorhombic supergroup.
Methodology to estimate the minimum number of experiments and key microstructural parameters in macroscopic strength properties evaluation
Authors: Gitman I. M. , Gitman M. B. , Stolbov V. Yu. , Batin S. E. , Boyarshinov D. A.
Published: January 2019

A novel methodology, based on the theory of fuzzy sets, to obtain materials with pre‐defined sets of strength properties has been analysed from the position of identifying the necessary and sufficient number of experiments needed to predict these macro characteristics and establishing which micro parameters significantly influence the macroscale results. The procedure to estimate, with a user‐defined degree of accuracy, the minimum number of experiments and significant micro parameters has been tested and verified using experimental data, obtained from digital images of material microsections under different heat treatment conditions while analysing strength properties of reinforcing steel. The results confirm the possibility of using the developed methodologies for the performance properties evaluation of materials based on the minimum number of experiments and identification of the key grain‐phase parameters.
Evaluation of Marine Spatial Planning: Valuing the Process, Knowing the Impacts
Authors: Varjopuro Riku
Published: January 2019

A need for evaluating maritime spatial planning (MSP) has become more important as countries are preparing and implementing their MSP. Evaluations are opportunities to foster learning and to accumulate knowledge in order to improve the processes and effectiveness of MSP. Empirical evidence has shown that MSP processes are run in different ways and for different purposes. To address this diversity, this chapter presents a methodology for designing a flexible and context-specific evaluation of MSP. This chapter introduces a theory-based evaluation approach that aims to explain how and why the evaluated planning process or plan works or fails to work. It scrutinises how MSP produces intended and unintended effects, for whom and in what contexts and what mechanisms are triggered by the MSP.
The Ocean Perspective
Authors: Gee Kira
Published: January 2019

Oceans have held varying places in the imagination of societies, always linked to particular cultures and shifting in line with predominant world views and developing socio-economic and technological capacities. This chapter presents three Western ways of looking at the ocean. Each emerged at a particular period, but all continue to shape today’s conceptions of the ocean. There are many other ways of conceptualising the ocean, and different concepts exist concurrently, resulting in a multiplicity of perspectives that are changing over time. Although some scholars are debating whether it is possible to know the ocean at all, the selected concepts—incomplete though they may be—also point to contradictory perceptions of the ocean that may have a bearing on how we do maritime spatial planning.
Systematic Conservation Planning as a Tool to Advance Ecologically or Biologically Significant Area and Marine Spatial Planning Processes
Authors: Harris Linda R. , Holness Stephen , Finke Gunnar , Kirkman Stephen , Sink Kerry
Published: January 2019

Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) intends to create an improved, rational use of the ocean to reduce conflict among competing uses to achieve social, economic and environmental objectives. Systematic Conservation Planning (SCP) can contribute to MSP because it is also spatially explicit, deliberately seeks to reduce conflict and generates an evidence-based prioritisation of ocean-space use. Importantly, SCP includes biodiversity representation and persistence, is underpinned by quantitative targets and uses complementarity to achieve targets efficiently. Therefore, designing Ecologically or Biologically Significant Areas (EBSAs) using SCP improves their identification and delineation compared to current expert-based approaches, with greater likelihood of uptake in MSP because their SCP-based design deliberately avoids competing activities where possible. These principles are demonstrated in a case study of the Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem.
Maritime Spatial Planning and the EU’s Blue Growth Policy: Past, Present and Future Perspectives
Authors: Schultz-Zehden Angela , Weig Barbara , Lukic Ivana
Published: January 2019

This chapter discusses the role of Maritime spatial planning (MSP) and its relationship to Blue Growth. After presenting differences among European sea-basins with regard to blue sector development, it underlines the need for a differentiated definition and policy support for Blue Growth. We argue that MSP should be adapted towards the different Blue Growth support needs of countries, regions and maritime sectors throughout Europe. The success of MSP as a tool to support Blue Growth depends on how strongly MSP is intertwined with other measures of the Integrated Maritime Policy and territorial development measures. MSP should be seen more strongly in strategic future development planning, for example, highlighting potential development areas which may stimulate economic growth in territorial areas lagging behind others.
Monodromy inflation and an emergent mechanism for stabilising the cosmological constant
Authors: Padilla Antonio
Published: January 2019

Abstract

We show that a pair of field theory monodromies in which the shift symmetry is broken by small, well motivated deformations, naturally incorporates a mechanism for cancelling off radiative corrections to the cosmological constant. The lighter monodromy sector plays the role of inflation as well as providing a rigid degree of freedom that acts as a dynamical counterterm for the cosmological constant. The heavier monodromy sector includes a rigid dilaton that forces a global constraint on the system and the cancellation of vacuum energy loops occurs at low energies via the sequestering mechanism. This suggests that monodromy constructions in string theory could be adapted to incorporate mechanisms to stabilise the cosmological constant in their low energy descriptions.
An action for extended string Newton-Cartan gravity
Authors: Bergshoeff Eric A. , Grosvenor Kevin T. , Şimşek Ceyda , Yan Ziqi
Published: January 2019

Abstract

We construct an action for four-dimensional extended string Newton-Cartan gravity which is an extension of the string Newton-Cartan gravity that underlies nonrelativistic string theory. The action can be obtained as a nonrelativistic limit of the EinsteinHilbert action in General Relativity augmented with a term that contains an auxiliary two-form and one-form gauge field that both have zero flux on-shell. The four-dimensional extended string Newton-Cartan gravity is based on a central extension of the algebra that underlies string Newton-Cartan gravity.

The construction is similar to the earlier construction of a three-dimensional Chern-Simons action for extended Newton-Cartan gravity, which is based on a central extension of the algebra that underlies Newton-Cartan gravity. We show that this three-dimensional action is naturally obtained from the four-dimensional action by a reduction over the spatial isometry direction longitudinal to the string followed by a truncation of the extended string Newton-Cartan gravity fields. Our construction can be seen as a special case of the construction of an action for extended p-brane Newton-Cartan gravity in p + 3 dimensions.
Some results on the penalised nematic liquid crystals driven by multiplicative noise: weak solution and maximum principle
Authors: Brzeźniak Zdzisław , Hausenblas Erika , Razafimandimby Paul André
Published: January 2019

In this paper, we prove several mathematical results related to a system of highly nonlinear stochastic partial differential equations (PDEs). These stochastic equations describe the dynamics of penalised nematic liquid crystals under the influence of stochastic external forces. Firstly, we prove the existence of a global weak solution (in the sense of both stochastic analysis and PDEs). Secondly, we show the pathwise uniqueness of the solution in a 2D domain. In contrast to several works in the deterministic setting we replace the Ginzburg–Landau function$$\mathbb {1}_{|{\mathbf {n}}|\le 1}(|{\mathbf {n}}|^2-1){\mathbf {n}}$$1|n|≤1(|n|2-1)nby an appropriate polynomial$$f({\mathbf {n}})$$f(n)and we give sufficient conditions on the polynomialffor these two results to hold. Our third result is a maximum principle type theorem. More precisely, if we consider$$f({\mathbf {n}})=\mathbb {1}_{|d|\le 1}(|{\mathbf {n}}|^2-1){\mathbf {n}}$$f(n)=1|d|≤1(|n|2-1)nand if the initial condition$${\mathbf {n}}_0$$n0satisfies$$|{\mathbf {n}}_0|\le 1$$|n0|≤1, then the solution$${\mathbf {n}}$$nalso remains in the unit ball.
Direct numerical simulation of backward-facing step flow at and expansion ratio 2
Authors: Pont-Vílchez A. , Trias F. X. , Gorobets A. , Oliva A.
Published: January 2019

Backward-facing step (BFS) constitutes a canonical configuration to study wall-bounded flows subject to massive expansions produced by abrupt changes in geometry. Recirculation flow regions are common in this type of flow, driving the separated flow to its downstream reattachment. Consequently, strong adverse pressure gradients arise through this process, feeding flow instabilities. Therefore, both phenomena are strongly correlated as the recirculation bubble shape defines how the flow is expanded, and how the pressure rises. In an incompressible flow, this shape depends on the Reynolds value and the expansion ratio. The influence of these two variables on the bubble length is widely studied, presenting an asymptotic behaviour when both parameters are beyond a certain threshold. This is the usual operating point of many practical applications, such as in aeronautical and environmental engineering. Several numerical and experimental studies have been carried out regarding this topic. The existing simulations considering cases beyond the above-mentioned threshold have only been achieved through turbulence modelling, whereas direct numerical simulations (DNS) have been performed only at low Reynolds numbers. Hence, despite the great importance of achieving this threshold, there is a lack of reliable numerical data to assess the accuracy of turbulence models. In this context, a DNS of an incompressible flow over a BFS is presented in this paper, considering a friction Reynolds number ($Re_{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}}$) of 395 at the inflow and an expansion ratio 2. Finally, the elongation of the Kelvin–Helmholtz instabilities along the shear layer is also studied.
A pilot study on the provision of tracheostomy healthcare and patient engagement in quality improvement measures: a global perspective
Authors: Swords C , Manji A , Ward E , Arora A
Published: January 2019

Background

Work describing patient and family outcomes after tracheostomy has indicated that patients do not feel prepared at the time of discharge.

Objectives

To assess healthcare professional–patient interactions in tracheostomy care and the current provision of care.

Method

A global electronic survey was disseminated via e-mail.

Results

The majority of respondents were nursing or speech and language staff, from over 10 countries. Only 23 per cent of respondents’ institutions routinely offered patients the ability to meet people with a tracheostomy pre-operatively. Only 31 per cent consistently provided or co-ordinated full nursing and equipment requirements on discharge. Only half of the institutions participated in tracheostomy quality improvement initiatives; less than one-third of these involved patients.

Conclusion

The provision of tracheostomy care in hospital and at discharge can be improved. The current practice of clinician-led audit is becoming less viable; future initiatives should focus upon patient-centred outcomes to ensure excellence in healthcare delivery.