bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress‐Transfer‐Induced In Situ Formation of Ultrathin Nickel Phosphide Nanosheets for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Li Shao‐Hai , Zhang Nan , Xie Xiuqiang , Luque Rafael , Xu Yi‐Jun
Published: August 2018

Ultrathin two‐dimensional (2D) nanostructures have attracted increasing research interest for energy storage and conversion. However, tackling the key problem of lattice mismatch inducing the instability of ulreathin nanostructures during phase transformations is still a critical challenge. Herein, we describe a facile and scalable strategy for the growth of ultrathin nickel phosphide (Ni2P) nanosheets (NSs) with exposed (001) facets. We show that single‐layer functionalized graphene with residual oxygen‐containing groups and a large lateral size contributes to reducing the lattice strain during phosphorization. The resulting nanostructure exhibits remarkable hydrogen evolution activity and good stability under alkaline conditions.
Giant Hysteretic Single‐Molecule Electric Polarisation Switching above Room Temperature
Authors: Kato Chisato , Machida Ryo , Maruyama Rio , Tsunashima Ryo , Ren Xiao‐Ming , Kurmoo Mohamedally , Inoue Katsuya , Nishihara Sadafumi
Published: August 2018

Continual progress has been achieved in information technology through unrelenting miniaturisation of the single memory bit in integrated ferromagnetic, ferroelectric, optical, and related circuits. However, as miniaturisation approaches its theoretical limit, new memory materials are being sought. Herein, we report a unique material exhibiting single‐molecule electric polarisation switching that can operate above room temperature. The phenomenon occurs in a Preyssler‐type polyoxometalate (POM) cluster we call a single‐molecule electret (SME). It exhibits all the characteristics of ferroelectricity but without long‐range dipole ordering. The SME affords bi‐stability as a result of the two potential positions of localisation of a Tb3+ ion trapped in the POM, resulting in extremely slow relaxation of the polarisation and electric hysteresis with high spontaneous polarisation and coercive electric fields. Our findings suggest that SMEs can potentially be applied to ultrahigh‐density memory and other molecular‐level electronic devices operating above room temperature.
Small‐Band‐Gap Halide Double Perovskites
Authors: Slavney Adam H. , Leppert Linn , Saldivar Valdes Abraham , Bartesaghi Davide , Savenije Tom J. , Neaton Jeffrey B. , Karunadasa Hemamala I.
Published: August 2018

Despite their compositional versatility, most halide double perovskites feature large band gaps. Herein, we describe a strategy for achieving small band gaps in this family of materials. The new double perovskites Cs2AgTlX6 (X=Cl (1) and Br (2)) have direct band gaps of 2.0 and 0.95 eV, respectively, which are approximately 1 eV lower than those of analogous perovskites. To our knowledge, compound 2 displays the lowest band gap for any known halide perovskite. Unlike in AIBIIX3 perovskites, the band‐gap transition in AI2BB′X6 double perovskites can show substantial metal‐to‐metal charge‐transfer character. This band‐edge orbital composition is used to achieve small band gaps through the selection of energetically aligned B‐ and B′‐site metal frontier orbitals. Calculations reveal a shallow, symmetry‐forbidden region at the band edges for 1, which results in long (μs) microwave conductivity lifetimes. We further describe a facile self‐doping reaction in 2 through Br2 loss at ambient conditions.
Living Coordination Polymerization of a Six‐Five Bicyclic Lactone to Produce Completely Recyclable Polyester
Authors: Zhu Jian‐Bo , Chen Eugene Y.‐X.
Published: August 2018

The development of chemically recyclable polymers promises a closed‐loop approach towards a circular plastic economy but still faces challenges in structure/property diversity and depolymerization selectivity. Here we report the first successful coordination ring‐opening polymerization of 4,5‐trans‐cyclohexyl‐fused γ‐butyrolactone (M1) with lanthanide catalysts at room temperature, producing P(M1) with Mn up to 89 kg mol−1, high thermal stability, and a linear or cyclic topology. The same catalyst also catalyses selective depolymerization of P(M1) back to M1 exclusively at 120 °C. This coordination polymerization is also living, enabling the synthesis of well‐defined block copolymer.
United in Nitride: The Highly Condensed Boron Phosphorus Nitride BP3N6
Authors: Vogel Sebastian , Buda Amalina T. , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: August 2018

Owing to intriguing materials properties non‐metal nitrides are of special interest for both, solid‐state chemistry and materials science. Mixed ternary non‐metal nitrides, however, have only been sparsely investigated, as preparative chemistry lacks a systematic access, yet. Herein, we report on the highly condensed boron phosphorus nitride BP3N6, which was synthesized from (PNCl2)3, NH4N3 and h‐BN in a high‐pressure high‐temperature reaction. By increasing partial pressure of HCl during synthesis using NH4Cl, single‐crystals of BP3N6 up to 80 μm in length were obtained. The unprecedented framework‐type structure determined by single‐crystal XRD blends structural motifs of both, α‐P3N5 and c‐BN, rendering BP3N6 a double nitride. The compound was further investigated by Rietveld refinement, EDX, temperature‐dependent PXRD, FTIR and solid‐state NMR spectroscopy. The formation of BP3N6 through use of reactive precursors exemplifies an innovative access to mixed non‐metal nitrides.
Ultraparamagnetic Cells Formed through Intracellular Oxidation and Chelation of Paramagnetic Iron
Authors: Ramesh Pradeep , Hwang Son‐Jong , Davis Hunter C. , Lee‐Gosselin Audrey , Bharadwaj Vivek , English Max A. , Sheng Jenny , Iyer Vasant , Shapiro Mikhail G.
Published: August 2018

Making cells magnetic is a long‐standing goal of chemical biology, aiming to enable the separation of cells from complex biological samples and their visualization in vivo using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Previous efforts towards this goal, focused on engineering cells to biomineralize superparamagnetic or ferromagnetic iron oxides, have been largely unsuccessful due to the stringent required chemical conditions. Here, we introduce an alternative approach to making cells magnetic, focused on biochemically maximizing cellular paramagnetism. We show that a novel genetic construct combining the functions of ferroxidation and iron chelation enables engineered bacterial cells to accumulate iron in “ultraparamagnetic” macromolecular complexes, allowing these cells to be trapped with magnetic fields and imaged with MRI in vitro and in vivo. We characterize the properties of these cells and complexes using magnetometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, biochemical assays, and computational modeling to elucidate the unique mechanisms and capabilities of this paramagnetic concept.
Importance of peripheral basins: Implications for the conservation of fish assemblages
Authors: Bylak Aneta , Kukuła Krzysztof
Published: August 2018

The upper Dniester River basin (Black Sea basin) contains unique fish assemblages. Although data on the fish of the basin are scarce, evidence indicates that these assemblages have declined. It was assumed that the peripheral basins (i.e. small basins on the edge of the larger basin) of the upper Dniester River basin could maintain good ecological status. To fill the knowledge gaps and assess the role of peripheral basins on fish species and assemblage conservation, research was conducted in the Strwiąż River basin.

Data from the Strwiąż basin and the adjacent but unconnected upper Wiar basin (the Vistula basin; Baltic Sea basin) were compared in order to examine the influence of historical factors, and to confirm the unique characteristics of the fish assemblages of the peripheral area of the upper Dniester basin. A detailed analysis of the fish assemblages was performed, the primary morphological characteristics of sites that corresponded to the requirements of the fish assemblages were defined, and the human impacts were identified.

The Strwiąż River basin is likely to be the only fragment of the upper Dniester basin with a well‐preserved fish assemblage. It features high species richness and numerous native Ponto–Caspian species that function near the edge of their ranges. The extant fish fauna of the Strwiąż River basin can provide a point of reference for other tributaries of the upper Dniester River that are degraded.

We draw attention to the fact that peripheral basins, which are not usually considered in conservation biogeography, can be important for the protection of fish species and entire fish assemblages. This study provides one of the most convincing arguments for a more detailed investigation of peripheral populations.
Swarm intelligence to solve the curriculum sequencing problem
Authors: Menai Mohamed E. B. , Alhunitah Hamad , Al‐Salman Hussein
Published: August 2018

The curriculum sequencing (CS) problem asks to find a personalized optimal path for a learner in an e‐learning environment. Solving this problem contributes to developing adaptive e‐learning systems which provide personalized learning paths compatible with the individual profiles of the learners. The solutions to large CS instances can be only approximated as this problem is NP‐hard. In this paper, we formulate the CS problem as a constraint satisfaction problem and investigate swarm intelligence methods to solve it, including a newly introduced method called SwarmRW and the widely used ant colony system (ACS). In addition, we introduce two variants of SwarmRW, called SwarmRW_rnd and SwarmRW_inc. The performance results obtained on real data show that SwarmRW_rnd achieved the best results in terms of maximizing the number of satisfied constraints. However, SwarmRW_inc demonstrated the best trade‐off between the solution quality and the running‐time to obtain it.
Flow‐Based Deacidification of Geobacter sulfurreducens Biofilms Depends on Nutrient Conditions: a Microfluidic Bioelectrochemical Study
Authors: Zarabadi Mir Pouyan , Charette Steve J. , Greener Jesse
Published: August 2018

Biofilms from Geobacter sulfurreducens are promising materials for new bioelectrochemical systems. To improve the performance of such systems, limitations related to biofilm acidification should be addressed. This work examines a long‐held assumption that liquid flow can deacidify biofilm pH by enhancing molecular mass transport in the biofilm subdomain. A microfluidic electrochemical system was used to measure changes to biofilm pH in situ while accurately modulating hydrodynamic conditions under turnover, nutrient‐limited and starvation conditions. We discovered that increased flow rates could indeed mitigate biofilm acidification, but not under turnover concentrations, which are the predominant conditions used in research studies. This effect is demonstrated with the observation that relative increases to bio‐current under increased flow rates were stronger for experiments conducted under nutrient‐limited concentrations compared to turnover concentrations. This can open the way for a solution to poor performance of some bioelectrochemical systems at low concentrations.
Arsenic Catalysis: Hydroboration of Aldehydes Using a Benzo‐Fused Diaza‐benzyloxy‐arsole
Authors: Ould Darren M. C. , Melen Rebecca L.
Published: August 2018

The first example of a homogenous AsIII catalyst for hydroboration has been established. The reaction of N,N′‐diisopropylbenzene diamine or toluene‐3,4‐dithiol with AsCl3 yielded the chloroarsoles (1 and 2), which upon reaction with benzyl alcohol yielded the benzyloxy benzo‐1,3,2‐diazaarsole (3) and benzo‐1,3,2‐dithiaarsole (4), respectively. Compound 3 was found to be an excellent catalyst for the hydroboration of aldehyde substrates.
Discovery of Aporphine Analogues as Potential Antiplatelet and Antioxidant Agents: Design, Synthesis, Structure–Activity Relationships, Biological Evaluations, and in silico Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Sharma Vashundhra , Jaiswal Pradeep K. , Kumar Surendra , Mathur Manas , Swami Ajit K. , Yadav Dharmendra K. , Chaudhary Sandeep
Published: August 2018

To explore the potential of aporphine alkaloids, a novel series of functionalized aporphine analogues with alkoxy (OCH3, OC2H5, OC3H7) functional groups at C1/C2 of ring A and an acyl (COCH3 and COPh) or phenylsulfonyl (SO2Ph and SO2C6H4‐3‐CH3) functionality at the N6 position of ring B of the aporphine scaffold were synthesized and evaluated for their arachidonic acid (AA)‐induced antiplatelet aggregation inhibitory activity and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free‐radical‐scavenging antioxidant activity, with acetylsalicylic acid and ascorbic acid as standard references, respectively. The preliminary structure–activity relationship related to AA‐induced platelet aggregation inhibitory activity results showed that the aporphine analogues 1‐[1,2,9,10‐tetramethoxy‐6a,7‐dihydro‐4H‐dibenzo[de,g]quinolin‐6(5H)‐yl]ethanone and 1‐[2‐(benzyloxy)‐1,9,10‐trimethoxy‐6a,7‐dihydro‐4H‐dibenzo[de,g]quinolin‐6(5H)‐yl]ethanone to be the best compounds of the series. Moreover, the DPPH free‐radical‐scavenging antioxidant activity results demonstrated that the aporphine analogues 1,2,9,10‐tetramethoxy‐6‐(methylsulfonyl)‐5,6,6a,7‐tetrahydro‐4H‐dibenzo[de,g]quinoline, 2‐ethoxy‐1,9,10‐trimethoxy‐6‐(methylsulfonyl)‐5,6,6a,7‐tetrahydro‐4H‐dibenzo[de,g]quinoline, 1‐ethoxy‐2,9,10‐trimethoxy‐6‐(methylsulfonyl)‐5,6,6a,7‐tetrahydro‐4H‐dibenzo[de,g]quinoline, 2,9,10‐trimethoxy‐6‐(methylsulfonyl)‐1‐propoxy‐5,6,6a,7‐tetrahydro‐4H‐dibenzo[de,g]quinoline, and 1‐(benzyloxy)‐2,9,10‐trimethoxy‐6‐(methylsulfonyl)‐5,6,6a,7‐tetrahydro‐4H‐dibenzo[de,g]quinoline were the best compounds of the series. Moreover, in silico molecular docking simulation studies of the active analogues were also performed.
Detrital zircon record of rivers' sediments in the North Qilian Orogenic Belt: Implications of the tectonic evolution of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Kang Huan , Chen Yuelong , Li Dapeng , Bao Chuang , Chen Yawen , Xue Hua
Published: August 2018

The North Qilian Orogenic Belt (NQOB) is an important element of the northern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, and several rivers run along it. Zircon U–Pb dating, trace elements, and Hf isotopic data derived from the sediments carried by the rivers have been used to deduce the crustal evolution of the NQOB. U–Pb ages obtained from detrital zircons found in the sediments of the Zamu, Zhuanglan, and Beida rivers can be divided into five major age groups, that is, 2,600–1,500, 1,500–1,100, 1,100–650, 550–400, and 360–150 Ma, and the corresponding peaks occur at ~2,450, ~1,750, ~950, ~450, and ~250 Ma. Archean components, which may be derived from the ancient continental nucleus in the region, are rare in the river sediments. The zircon grains with ages of 360–150 Ma are most likely related to crustal thickening and decompression melting in a post‐collisional tectonic setting. The age distribution patterns indicate that the sediments carried by the Zamu, Zhuanglang, and Beida rivers are derived from the NQOB. Furthermore, the Hf isotopic compositions of Meso‐ and Neoarchean, Mesoproterozoic, Grenvillian, Pan‐African, Caledonian, and Hercynian zircon age groups exhibit a wide range of εHf (t) values, suggesting diverse sources. The existence of strongly negative εHf (t) values among the Grenvillian and Paleoproterozoic zircons indicates that the source magma included reworked Palaeoarchean crustal materials. New results indicate that continental rifting and the opening of the Qilian Ocean occurred at 775–520 Ma; the subduction and closure of the Qilian Ocean occurred at 520–440 Ma; arc–continent collision and continental subduction occurred at 440–420 Ma; and orogen collapse and extension occurred at 400–360 Ma. Our study indicates that the formation of the NQOB was mainly related to the evolutionary history of the Proto‐Tethys Ocean.
Three‐step algorithm for biological therapy targeted IgE and IL‐5 in severe asthma
Authors: Oishi Keiji , Matsunaga Kazuto
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Recently, several new biological therapies targeted IgE and IL‐5 in severe asthma have been developed and approved. In the last few years, there have been some reports on the therapeutic algorithms for severe asthmatic subjects screened by biomarkers. However, these algorithms have one problem. In atopic/eosinophilic overlapping asthmatic subjects, there is no effective answer to the question: “which is the optimal choice between Anti‐IgE and anti‐IL‐5?”

Methods

We propose a new three‐step algorithm for biological therapy in severe asthma.

Results

Step 1 is to divide subjects into four groups by measuring blood eosinophils and FeNO. Step 2 is to divide the subjects further into six groups by atopy test. In the case of elevated blood eosinophils, normal/elevated FeNO, and atopy, we perform a steroid trial in step 3 in order to decide whether to select anti‐IgE or anti‐IL‐5. The steroid trial is to assess the symptoms of asthma, lung function, blood eosinophils, and FeNO before and after 14 days treatment with 0.5 mg/kg oral prednisolone/day. We judge that cases in which blood eosinophils and FeNO decrease together are not “truely steroid resistance.” In such cases, considering the possibility that allergic type inflammation through adaptive immunity is dominant, anti‐IgE is selected when it is difficult to prevent exacerbations by improving environmental factors. Conversely, we consider that cases in which blood eosinophils and/or FeNO do not decrease, are “truely steroid resistance.” In this case, since there is a possibility that non‐allergic type inflammation due to innate immunity, etc. may remain, anti‐IL‐5, which is expected to be effective for steroid‐resistant eosinophilic inflammation, is selected.

Conclusions

Our three‐step algorithm including the steroid trial may be applicable to companion diagnostics testing for molecularly targeted therapies in severe asthma. Further validation is required to examine the effectiveness of this algorithm.
Gender differences on laugh‐related traits: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Wu Ching‐Lin , Chan Yu‐Chen , Chen Hsueh‐Chih
Published: August 2018

People have different responses to being laughed at, including fear of being laughed at, joy from being laughed at and joy from hearing others laugh. Previous studies have indicated that men have a higher tendency of laughing at others, but there were no gender differences on terms of the other two responses. Socioemotional selectivity theory indicates that individuals pay less attention to negative stimuli as they get older. It is worth investigating whether the gender differences of gelotophobia and gelotophilia occur in certain developmental stages. The present study is a cross‐sectional study, with a sample size of 1247 participants; we collected information regarding laugh‐related traits among participants 11–66 years old, and we particularly focused on the moderation effect of age on gender differences on gelotophobia, gelotophilia and katagelasticism. The results showed that men had a stronger tendency for laughing at others, but there were no significant gender differences on terms of gelotophobia and gelotophilia; age not only moderated the relationship between gender and gelotophobia but also the relationship between gender and katagelasticism. Male adolescents had higher incidences of gelotophobia and katagelasticism than female adolescents, but this finding was not consistent in the middle adulthood sample. The present study found age to be a moderator between gender and laugh‐related traits, and it indicated the influence of age on the fear of being laughed at during early adolescence, but there was no gender difference with respect to katagelasticism in middle adulthood.
Simulation of Local Head Loss in Trickle Lateral Lines Equipped with In‐line Emitters Based on Dimensional Analysis
Authors: Wang Yalin , Zhu Delan , Zhang Lin , Zhu Shijiang
Published: August 2018

in order to investigate local head loss in trickle lateral lines equipped with integrated in‐line emitters, experiments were conducted on four common drip irrigation pipes of varying size, and CFD software was used to simulate and verify the results. Simulations of total head loss agreed well with the experimental data. Local head loss was related to the inner diameter of laterals, inner diameter of emitters, emitter length, water flow velocity, and kinematic viscosity. The ratio of local head loss to frictional head loss was closely related to emitter spacing. For example, the local head loss in a drip irrigation pipe with a 16 mm diameter was 0.23 ~ 1.89 times the frictional head loss. Local head loss in laterals is small under laminar flow conditions and can be neglected in most cases. This research provides a reference for hydraulic calculations of pipe networks. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting credit card delinquencies: An application of deep neural networks
Authors: Sun Ting , Vasarhelyi Miklos A.
Published: August 2018

The objective of this paper is twofold. First, it develops a prediction system to help the credit card issuer model the credit card delinquency risk. Second, it seeks to explore the potential of deep learning (also called a deep neural network), an emerging artificial intelligence technology, in the credit risk domain. With real‐life credit card data linked to 711,397 credit card holders from a large bank in Brazil, this study develops a deep neural network to evaluate the risk of credit card delinquency based on the client's personal characteristics and the spending behaviours. Compared with machine‐learning algorithms of logistic regression, naive Bayes, traditional artificial neural networks, and decision trees, deep neural networks have a better overall predictive performance with the highest F scores and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. The successful application of deep learning implies that artificial intelligence has great potential to support and automate credit risk assessment for financial institutions and credit bureaus.
Front Cover: Photodynamic opening of the blood‐brain barrier and pathways of brain clearing (J. Biophotonics 8/2018)
Authors: Semyachkina‐Glushkovskaya Oxana , Chehonin Vladimir , Borisova Ekaterina , Fedosov Ivan , Namykin Anton , Abdurashitov Arkady , Shirokov Alexander , Khlebtsov Boris , Lyubun Yelena , Navolokin Nikita , Ulanova Mariya , Shushunova Natalia , Khorovodov Alexander , Agranovich Ilana , Bodrova Anastasia , Sagatova Madina , Shareef Ali Esmat , Saranceva Elena , Iskra Tatyana , Dvoryatkina Mariya , Zhinchenko Ekaterina , Sindeeva Olga , Tuchin Valery , Kurths Jurgen
Published: August 2018

Fluorescent microscopy of the brain clearing from the FITC‐dextran (red color) via the meningeal lymphatic vessels (green color, labelled by specific antibodies LYVE‐1 conjugated with Alexa 488). The FITC‐dextran injected intravenously immediately is observed in the Sagittal sinus (the main cerebral vein) and after photodynamic opening of blood‐brain barrier it is also presented in the meningeal lymphatic vessels due to activation of brain clearing from accumulated the FITC‐dextran in the brain parenchyma.

Further details can be found in the article by Oxana Semyachkina‐Glushkovskaya, Vladimir Chehonin, Ekaterina Borisova, et al. (e201700287)

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Back Cover: Assessment of the dynamics of human glymphatic system by near‐infrared spectroscopy (J. Biophotonics 8/2018)
Authors: Myllylä Teemu , Harju Markus , Korhonen Vesa , Bykov Alexander , Kiviniemi Vesa , Meglinski Igor
Published: August 2018

A functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) based approach to non‐invasive monitoring of the (g)lymphatic system in the human brain. The cover figure shows depth sensitivity of fNIRS, particularly at the wavelength of 980 nm, for sensing dynamic variations of water and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume, e.g. in the subarachnoid space. Observed fluctuations in water content correlated with magnetic resonance encephalography (MREG) signals during visual task, further, are assumed to be connected with the glymphatic circulation.

Further details can be found in the article by Teemu Myllylä, Markus Harju, Vesa Korhonen, et al. (e201870154)

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Interaction of Fused 1,2,4‐Triazinone with Diborane/Oxidation: A New Route for the Synthesis of Partially Saturated and Aromatic Pyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazines
Authors: Ivanov Sergey M. , Shestopalov Anatoliy M.
Published: August 2018

Reactions of 8‐carboxyethyl‐4‐oxo‐3‐tert‐butyl‐4,6‐dihydropyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazine and 8‐butyryl‐4‐oxo‐3‐tert‐butyl‐4,6‐dihydropyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazine with B2H6 in Et2O at 0°C led rapidly to the selective formation of 8‐alkyl‐substituted derivatives. Addition of boron trifluoride led to reduction of the triazine ring, with formation of 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydropyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazines. The latter were spontaneously oxidized by atmospheric oxygen, with formation of 1,4‐dihydro derivatives, or could be converted to the corresponding aromatic pyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazines using oxidative nitration/elimination sequence. These transformations represent a new route for the synthesis of previously inaccessible partially saturated and aromatic pyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazines.
Citric acid reduces oral biofilm and influences the electrochemical behavior of titanium: Anin situandin vitrostudy
Authors: Souza João G. S. , Cordeiro Jairo M. , Lima Carolina V. , Barão Valentim A. R.
Published: August 2018

Background

Citric acid (CA) has been suggested as an effective antimicrobial agent against biofilms formed on titanium. However, the antimicrobial effect of CA in biofilms formed in the oral environment and its effects on the physical properties of titanium surface remain unknown. Therefore, this study evaluated the antimicrobial effect of CA onin situbiofilm, whether this treatment favors the bacteria recolonization and its effect on the electrochemical properties of titanium.

Methods

In thein situtest, volunteers wore a palatal appliance containing titanium discs. After 7 days, the discs (N = 21) were exposedin vitroto the following treatments: immersion in 0.9% sodium chloride (control); 40% CA immersion; and 40% CA rubbing. Afterwards, these discs (N = 18) were exposedin vitroto new bacterial adhesion withStreptococcus sanguinis. New discs (N = 18) without biofilm were exposed to the treatments and subjected to electrochemical tests and surface characterization. Data were analyzed by one‐way ANOVA followed by Tukey's HSD test.

Results

The CA groups showed a significant reduction (≈ 5‐log reduction) in the biofilm formedin situcompared with the control group (p < 0.05), but no difference was found between CA application methods (p = 0.680). The acid treatment did not favor the recolonization of bacteria (p = 0.629). CA treatment did not influence the polarization resistance and capacitance of the oxide film, but statistically enhanced the electrochemical stability of titanium.

Conclusion

Citric acid appears to be an effective clinical alternative for treatment of the main etiologic factor in dental implant failure, biofilm formation, enhancing electrochemical behavior of titanium.
The use of vegetation as a natural strategy for landfill restoration
Authors: Vaverková Magdalena D. , Radziemska Maja , Bartoň Stanislav , Cerdà Artemi , Koda Eugeniusz
Published: August 2018

It is well‐known that the disposal of municipal solid waste in landfills has adverse effects on the environment and human health. Restoration of closed landfills is essential to compensate for disturbances in the ecosystem, minimize negative impact on the environment, and ensure safety in further use. It was hypothesized that specific plant succession knowledge can present nature‐based solutions to restore and rehabilitate degraded ecosystems at municipal solid waste landfills. The goal of the 8‐year study was to identify restoration strategies based on vegetation succession. For the vegetation survey, we recorded the vegetation over the period 2007–2015. The study was carried out on the surface of the landfill site. We also used four mathematical models to analyze the increase of plant species over time. During the study period, 195 vascular plant species were recorded. There was a progressive change in plant communities and an increase in biodiversity. What is more, the growth prediction models show that the diversity of plant species over time at the landfill site has an increasing tendency, which has beneficial implications for landfill restoration. During the vegetation survey period, there was no evidence to suggest that the landfill site had a significant impact on the biotic composition of the environment. We can conclude that the health status of plants occurring in the landfill was good. Plants both contributed to and indicated the health of the landfill site and were found to be a convenient and natural component of landfill restoration.
Measuring the technical efficiency of cooperative societies in Kuwait
Authors: Al Mutairi Abdullah , Olson Dennis , Al Ghanim Bashaer
Published: August 2018

This study employs bootstrap data envelopment analysis to measure the technical efficiencies of 48 Kuwaiti retail cooperative societies (coops) during the years 2012–2015. Average profit efficiency falls substantially from 84% to 70% after applying a bootstrap correction. The bias is larger for coops originally identified as being on the efficient frontier. The average coop is too small, but both profitability and efficiency are negatively related to the number of direct branches (mini‐marts). Also, coops can increase profitability through greater equity capitalization, whereas better control of labor costs leads to higher profit efficiency.
A multiscale approach for investigating the effect of microstructural instability on global failure in granular materials
Authors: Zhao Chao‐Fa , Yin Zhen‐Yu , Hicher Pierre‐Yves
Published: August 2018

This paper aims to develop a multiscale approach that has the ability to characterise the influence of microstructural instabilities on global failures in granular materials. For this purpose, the Chang‐Hicher multiscale constitutive relation has been implemented into a finite element code, and the expression of the second‐order work, as an indicator of the material instability, has been computed at the interparticle contact scale, at the representative element volume scale, and at the boundary value problem scale. At the global scale, the second‐order work can be obtained through the integration of that obtained at interparticle contacts. Hence, it becomes possible to analyse the range of instability from the microstructure to the macrostructure. Drained and undrained triaxial tests were numerically simulated. With this method, it was demonstrated that the grain‐scale origin of the specimen instability was well captured. Additionally, biaxial tests were conducted and the onsets of localised and diffuse failure in granular assemblies were successfully predicted. The transition from diffuse to localised failure was demonstrated at different scales, whereby the coincidence between the direction of local instabilities and the direction of the shear band became evident. The influence of the boundary conditions and of the heterogeneity of the initial porosity on the failure mode of granular materials was also analysed. All these examples demonstrate that the developed multiscale approach can characterise in a satisfactory manner the influence of instability at the inter‐grain contacts upon the global failure of granular assemblies.
Hospital Nutrition Assessment Practice 2016 Survey
Authors: Mogensen Kris M. , Bouma Sandra , Haney Amanda , Vanek Vincent W. , Malone Ainsley , Quraishi Sadeq A. , Guenter Peggi
Published: August 2018

Background

Malnutrition is a significant problem for hospitalized patients in the United States. Nutrition assessment is an important step in recognizing malnutrition; however, it is not always performed using consistent parameters.

Methods

A survey among U.S. American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) members was conducted to collect data on nutrition assessment parameters used in hospitals and to establish how facilities use their electronic health record (EHR) to permit data retrieval and outcome reporting.

Results

The survey was developed by the ASPEN Malnutrition Committee and was sent to 5487 U.S. ASPEN members, with 489 responding for a 9% response rate. Ninety‐eight percent of adult and 93% of pediatric respondents indicated a registered dietitian completed the nutrition assessment following a positive nutrition screen. Variables most frequently used among adult respondents included usual body weight, ideal body weight, and body mass index. Among pediatric respondents, weight‐for‐age and height‐for‐age percentiles and length/height‐for‐age percentile were most frequently used. Both adult and pediatric respondents indicated use of physical assessment parameters, including muscle and fat loss and skin assessment. Eighty‐seven percent of adult and 77% of pediatric respondents indicated they are using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (Academy) and ASPEN Consensus Malnutrition Characteristics for Adult and Pediatric Malnutrition, respectively. Overall, 97% of respondents indicated nutrition assessment documentation was completed via an EHR. Of all respondents, 61% indicated lack of clinical decision support within their EHR.

Conclusion

This survey demonstrated significant use of the Academy/ASPEN malnutrition consensus characteristics.
Developing nurse match: A selection tool for evoking and scoring an applicant's nursing values and attributes
Authors: McNeill Colin , Erskine Allen , Ellis Roger , Traynor Marian
Published: August 2018

Aim

To develop an instrument (Nurse Match: NM) for assessing a candidate's nursing values, their meaning, relative importance and emotional significance. Candidate's values to be scored against professionally preferred nursing values effectively and efficiently.

Design

A case study‐based qualitative process with quantified output. Perception of self and others in relevant contexts using bi‐polar value dimensions.

Methods

Respondents (N = 63) were first year nursing students completed the instrument and a feedback questionnaire. Data were analysed and scored by ipseus software using algorithm defined parameters. Statistical analysis: Minitab 17.

Results

The instrument

discriminated effectively and efficiently between year one nurses in terms of the professional quality of their inherent nursing values and attributes;

created suitability scores (STOT scores) for candidate screening purposes;

suitability scores closely approximated normal distributions;

was valid and reliable: robust in quantitative and qualitative terms;

was administered, scored and interpreted in a standard manner;

was easy to understand and complete and well received by participants.

The NM instrument offers a standardized, effective, user friendly, screening process for values and attributes. Development work with a group of actual applicants is required. NM is complementary to other modes of assessment.
Count data monitoring: Parametric or nonparametric?
Authors: Wang Zhiqiong , Qiu Peihua
Published: August 2018

Count data are common in practice, ranging from security protection, disease surveillance, to quality monitoring of a production process. To describe the distribution of a count data, we usually use a Poisson probability model or a similar parametric model (eg, a negative binomial model). In practice, however, such a parametric model may not be able to describe the distribution of a count data well in some cases, because the count data are often affected by some confounding factors and such a confounding impact is difficult to accommodate by the parametric model. In this paper, we study the count data monitoring problem and the consequence to use a parametric control chart in cases when the underlying parametric distribution model is invalid. On the basis of that study, we suggest using nonparametric charts to monitor count data when it is uncertain that the count data can be described well by a parametric distribution model.
Powerful extreme phenotype sampling designs and score tests for genetic association studies
Authors: Bjørnland Thea , Bye Anja , Ryeng Einar , Wisløff Ulrik , Langaas Mette
Published: August 2018

We consider cross‐sectional genetic association studies (common and rare variants) where non‐genetic information is available or feasible to obtain for N individuals, but where it is infeasible to genotype all N individuals. We consider continuously measurable Gaussian traits (phenotypes). Genotyping n < N extreme phenotype individuals can yield better power to detect phenotype‐genotype associations, as compared to randomly selecting n individuals. We define a person as having an extreme phenotype if the observed phenotype is above a specified threshold or below a specified threshold. We consider a model where these thresholds can be tailored to each individual. The classical extreme sampling design is to set equal thresholds for all individuals. We introduce a design (z‐extreme sampling) where personalized thresholds are defined based on the residuals of a regression model including only non‐genetic (fully available) information. We derive score tests for the situation where only n extremes are analyzed (complete case analysis) and for the situation where the non‐genetic information on N − n non‐extremes is included in the analysis (all case analysis). For the classical design, all case analysis is generally more powerful than complete case analysis. For the z‐extreme sample, we show that all case and complete case tests are equally powerful. Simulations and data analysis also show that z‐extreme sampling is at least as powerful as the classical extreme sampling design and the classical design is shown to be at times less powerful than random sampling. The method of dichotomizing extreme phenotypes is also discussed.
Optical and Photosensitizing Properties of Spiro(dipyridinogermole)(dithienogermole)s with Eletron‐Donating Amino and Electron‐Withdrawing Pyridinothiadiazole Substituents
Authors: Ohshita Joji , Hayashi Yuya , Adachi Yohei , Enoki Toshiaki , Yamaji Kosuke , Ooyama Yousuke
Published: August 2018

Three spiro(dipyridinogermole)(dithienogermole) (sDPyG) derivatives with conjugated substituents on the dithienogermole system were synthesized. sDPyG with highly conjugated dithienylbenzothiadiazole substituents (4) showed moderate photoluminescence (PL) behavior with quantum yields of 15–17%, regardless of the solvent (chloroform, THF, or 1,4‐dioxane). In contrast, PL quantum yields of sDPyGs with relatively less conjugated triphenylamine and phenylcarbazole substituents, respectively (5 and 6), were decreased in polar solvents without significant solvatochromic shifts of the PL bands. This seems to indicate that the photo‐induced electron transfer took place in 5 and 6. The sDPyGs were also examined as photosensitizers for singlet oxygen (1O2) generation. The first‐order rate constant for the 1O2 generation of 6 was kobs=0.048/min, comparable to that of tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP, 0.056/min), a typical photosensitizer for 1O2 generation. The quantum yield of the 4‐sensitized 1O2 generation was also determined to be 0.37.
Azidoacetic Acid Amides in the Synthesis of Substituted Arylidene‐1‐H‐imidazol‐5‐(4H)‐ones
Authors: Zaitseva Snizhana O. , Golodukhina Svetlana V. , Baleeva Nadezhda S. , Levina Evgenia A. , Smirnov Alexander Yu. , Zagudaylova Marina B. , Baranov Mikhail S.
Published: August 2018

We present a novel efficient method for the synthesis of substituted arylidene‐1‐H‐imidazol‐5‐(4H)‐ones based on the use of azidoacetic acid amides. The proposed approach was successfully used for the preparation of three rows of target substances with different substituents in the imidazolone ring and benzylidene moiety. The presented methodology tends to be multipurpose and convenient for the introduction of substituents in any position.
Regio‐ and Stereoselective Multicomponent Synthesis of Novel Chromeno‐Annulated Pyrrolizine and Thiazolizine Scaffolds via 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Karmakar Rajiv , Mukhopadhyay Chhanda
Published: August 2018

An efficient protocol for the construction of chromeno annulated pyrrolizine and thiazolizines derivatives through an in‐situ formation of an azomethine ylides and zwitterionic intermediate followed by 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction is described. This novel one‐pot reaction paves the way for the successful assembly of salicaldehydes, dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylates and L‐proline or thiazolidine‐4‐carboxylic acid in the presence of a basic catalyst. This domino process affords polycyclic chromeno annulated pyrrolizines and chromenothiazolizines in good yields.
Autoxidation of Siphonochilone in Processed Rhizomes and Stored Powders of Siphonochilus aethiopicus (Schweinf.) B.L. Burtt
Authors: Zongwe Félix Katele , Muya Jules Tshishimbi , Mutimana Raphael , Virima Mudogo , Mayaliwa Muzomwe , Chung Hoeil , Maharaj Vinesh
Published: August 2018

A furano sesquiterpenoid, known as siphonochilone (1), is commonly reported as the major compound in the roots and the rhizomes of Siphonochilus aethiopicus together with related oxidized sesquiterpenoids (2‐5). As part of investigating the UPLC QTOF MS ES+ chemical profiles of n‐hexane/dichloromethane (1:1) extracts from crushed fresh rhizomes, dried and powdered rhizomes and the dried powders held under storage at room temperature, we have recently realized that decomposition of 1 occurs during the processing of the rhizomes and the storage of the powders. This decomposition which involves autoxidation of the furan moiety leads to formation of the artefact sesquiterpenoid lactone (3) and potentially (4), which numerous papers misreport as naturally present in the plant. MP2/6‐31+G(d,p), B3LYP/6‐31+G(d,p) and B3LYP/6‐311+G(2d,p) calculations were performed on siphonochilone (1) and the sesquiterpenoid lactone artifacts (3) and (4) and results rationalized the observed autoxidation.
Cloud plan selection under requirements of multiple applications
Authors: Arman Ala , Foresti Sara , Livraga Giovanni , Samarati Pierangela
Published: August 2018

Selecting the right plan is a key issue when moving to the cloud. When multiple applications need to be outsourced at the same time, the problem becomes more complicated, and different challenges might need to be solved. In this paper, we address this problem, characterize different outsourcing scenarios, and propose a brokerage‐based approach that, depending on the specific scenario, is able to compute one (or more) ranking(s) over a set of candidate plans, based on how they satisfy the specific application requirements. Our approach is able to combine application requirements to determine a plan that is suitable for all applications, possibly taking their importance into consideration (differentiating the impact that their requirements should have in the selection process), and allows different stakeholders to express such importance through linguistic variables, hence simplifying their definition and capturing the imprecision of human judgment.
Exotic branes in Exceptional Field Theory: the SL(5) duality group
Authors: Bakhmatov Ilya , Berman David S. , Kleinschmidt Axel , Musaev Edvard T. , Otsuki Ray
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We study how exotic branes, i.e. branes whose tensions are proportional to g

s

− 
α

, with α > 2, are realised in Exceptional Field Theory (EFT). The generalised torsion of the Weitzenböck connection of the SL(5) EFT which, in the language of gauged supergravity describes the embedding tensor, is shown to classify the exotic branes whose magnetic fluxes can fit into four internal dimensions. By analysing the weight diagrams of the corresponding representations of SL(5) we determine the U-duality orbits relating geometric and non-geometric fluxes. As a further application of the formalism we consider the Kaluza-Klein monopole of 11D supergravity and rotate it into the exotic 6(3,1)-brane.
Hegel’s Theory of Terrorism and Derrida’s Notion of Autoimmunity: Religious and Political Violence in the Name of Nothingness
Authors: Rukgaber Matthew
Published: August 2018

Rather than model Hegel’s account of terrorism on the struggle for recognition and against domination, I maintain that his account is best understood according to Derrida’s notion of autoimmunity. The logic of autoimmunity models terrorism as a symbolic, suicidal act of violence that is created by and directed against the violence of hegemony. It is also continually stimulated by a messianic and nihilistic ideal. This article provides a historical account of Derrida’s elaboration of this concept through his continual dialogue with Hegel. That concept is then applied to Hegel’s account of religious and political terrorism. Ultimately, this analysis supports a reading of Hegel’sPhenomenologyin which the confrontation with terrorism as autoimmunity is its lynchpin and which culminates in a moral community that is radically open to the other, to difference, and to the undecidable rather than being closed off and insulated by so-called absolute knowing.
Direct numerical simulation of a wall jet: flow physics
Authors: Naqavi Iftekhar Z. , Tyacke James C. , Tucker Paul G.
Published: August 2018

A direct numerical simulation (DNS) of a plane wall jet is performed at a Reynolds number of$Re_{j}=7500$. The streamwise length of the domain is long enough to achieve self-similarity for the mean flow and the Reynolds shear stress. This is the highest Reynolds number wall jet DNS for a large domain achieved to date. The high resolution simulation reveals the unsteady flow field in great detail and shows the transition process in the outer shear layer and inner boundary layer. Mean flow parameters of maximum velocity decay, wall shear stress, friction coefficient and jet spreading rate are consistent with several other studies reported in the literature. Mean flow, Reynolds normal and shear stress profiles are presented with various scalings, revealing the self-similar behaviour of the wall jet. The Reynolds normal stresses do not show complete similarity for the given Reynolds number and domain length. Previously published inner layer budgets based on LES are inaccurate and those that have been measured are only available in the outer layer. The current DNS provides fully balanced, explicitly calculated budgets for the turbulence kinetic energy, Reynolds normal stresses and Reynolds shear stress in both the inner and outer layers. The budgets are scaled with inner and outer variables. The inner-scaled budgets in the near wall region show great similarity with turbulent boundary layers. The only remarkable difference is for the turbulent diffusion in the wall-normal Reynolds stress and Reynolds shear stress budgets. The outer layer interacts with the inner layer through turbulent diffusion and the excess energy from the wall-normal direction is transferred to the spanwise direction.
Transported Identities: Global Trafficking and Late-Imperial Subjectivity in Cuban Narratives on African Penal Colonies
Authors: Martin-Márquez Susan
Published: August 2018

This article studies the reformulation of Black Legend, Middle Passage andconvivenciadiscourses in nineteenth-century narratives published by Cubans sent to Spain's de facto penal colony on Fernando Po. Contextualised with archival sources, this reading highlights how deportees condemned Spain's perpetuation of the slave trade while struggling to negotiate their own positioning within the racially-stratified practices of late-imperial space. Those negotiations often exacerbated traditional divisions between different communities within the Spanish colonial system. In some instances, however, the deportees’ encounters with citizens and colonised subjects from distant territories may have bolstered and expanded intra-imperial identification and solidarity.