bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Sheltered, Homeless Day
Authors: Small Cathy A. , Kordosky Jason , Moore Ross
Published: September 2020

This chapter provides a look at homeless life in the shelters. To anyone who frequents shelters, it is an institution with a common feel, with well-known pros and cons. A warm bed, food, and a shower are the most frequent foci of gratefulness, but the Community Shelter also provides an address to register to vote or receive official mail, a place to get needed clothing, and an avenue to connect with social and health service programs. However, there are still many homeless people who do not use a public or private shelter. One of the reasons for this is that they chafe at the rules. Grumbles about shelter life typically become more frequent when the facility is overcrowded, trying to serve more people than its resources allow. The most pointed objections to shelter life, however, involve people's sense of personal safety and control, with many concerns focused on other shelter clients.
Making Money
Authors: Small Cathy A. , Kordosky Jason , Moore Ross
Published: September 2020

This chapter assesses how homeless people get money. For many homeless people, one of the tasks to be accomplished, usually each day, is to get money. It may come as a surprise to many people that a sizable portion of able-bodied homeless people get their money from working a job. Indeed, they work seasonal jobs in construction, as agricultural workers, in fast food restaurants, as cleaning staff at local motels, and as aides in elder care. The chapter then explores the alternatives to working a regular salaried job, looking briefly at three moneymaking avenues: entrepreneurship, plasma donation, and panhandling. It also provides a detailed account of one of the main avenues for the homeless to find work: day labor.
The Voices of Aged Buraku Women
Authors: Ishikawa Machiko
Published: September 2020

This chapter discusses Nakagami's representation of old women or oba from Kumano. To articulate the significance of the oba in Nakagami's narratives, it first investigates Nakagami's reading of the work of well-known woman author Enchi Fumiko to provide insights into his view of the tradition of the “old woman” (omina/ōna) as a storyteller of monogatari. Based on this discussion, the chapter examines Nakagami's depiction in Sen'nen no yuraku (1982) of the aged roji woman, Oryū no oba, as a Burakumin omina. Furthermore, it discusses how Nakagami presents Oryū no oba's silenced voice. Oryū no oba has a special status that derives from her role as omina who passes down monogatari to the younger generation in the community. In contrast, the chapter considers Yuki and Moyo, two aged outcaste women who feature in the Akiyuki trilogy, as oba who can never assume the voice of community storyteller. Thus, this chapter investigates how Nakagami depicts the (im)possibility of these sexed women's voices speaking to or being heard by the community while also demonstrating how the writer presents an alternative representation of their voiceless voices.
lcc: an R package to estimate the concordance correlation, Pearson correlation and accuracy over time
Authors: Oliveira Thiago P. , Moral Rafael A. , Zocchi Silvio S. , Demetrio Clarice G.B. , Hinde John
Published: September 2020

Background and Objective

Observational studies and experiments in medicine, pharmacology and agronomy are often concerned with assessing whether different methods/raters produce similar values over the time when measuring a quantitative variable. This article aims to describe the statistical package lcc, for are, that can be used to estimate the extent of agreement between two (or more) methods over the time, and illustrate the developed methodology using three real examples.

Methods

The longitudinal concordance correlation, longitudinal Pearson correlation, and longitudinal accuracy functions can be estimated based on fixed effects and variance components of the mixed-effects regression model. Inference is made through bootstrap confidence intervals and diagnostic can be done via plots, and statistical tests.

Results

The main features of the package are estimation and inference about the extent of agreement using numerical and graphical summaries. Moreover, our approach accommodates both balanced and unbalanced experimental designs or observational studies, and allows for different within-group error structures, while allowing for the inclusion of covariates in the linear predictor to control systematic variations in the response. All examples show that our methodology is flexible and can be applied to many different data types.

Conclusions

The lcc package, available on the CRAN repository, proved to be a useful tool to describe the agreement between two or more methods over time, allowing the detection of changes in the extent of agreement. The inclusion of different structures for the variance-covariance matrices of random effects and residuals makes the package flexible for working with different types of databases.
Earthworms accelerate rice straw decomposition and maintenance of soil organic carbon dynamics in rice agroecosystems
Authors: Song Ke , Sun Lijuan , Lv Weiguang , Zheng Xianqing , Sun Yafei , Terzaghi William , Qin Qin , Xue Yong
Published: September 2020

Background

To promote straw degradation, we inoculated returned farmland straw with earthworms (Pheretima guillelmi). Increasing the number of earthworms may generally alter soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics and the biological activity of agricultural soils.

Methods

We performed soil mesocosm experiments with and without earthworms to assess the decomposition and microbial mineralization of returned straw and soil enzyme activity across different time periods.

Results

When earthworms were present in soil, the surface residues were completely consumed during the first four weeks, but when earthworms were absent, most of the residues remained on the soil surface after 18 weeks. On day 28, the SOC content was significantly higher in the treatment where both earthworms and residue had been added. The SOC content was lower in the treatment where earthworms but no residue had been added. The organic carbon content in water-stable macroaggregates showed the same trend. During the first 14 weeks, the soil basal respiration was highest in the treatments with both residues and earthworms. From weeks 14 to 18, basal respiration was highest in the treatments with residues but without earthworms. We found a significant positive correlation between soil basal respiration and soil dissolved organic carbon content. Earthworms increased the activity of protease, invertase, urease and alkaline phosphatase enzymes, but decreased β-cellobiohydrolase, β-glucosidase and xylosidase activity, as well as significantly reducing ergosterol content.

Conclusion

The primary decomposition of exogenous rice residues was mainly performed by earthworms. Over a short period of time, they converted plant carbon into soil carbon and increased SOC. The earthworms played a key role in carbon conversion and stabilization. In the absence of exogenous residues, earthworm activity accelerated the decomposition of original organic carbon in the soil, reduced SOC, and promoted carbon mineralization.
Cocoa colonic phenolic metabolites are related to HDL-cholesterol raising effects and methylxanthine metabolites and insoluble dietary fibre to anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic effects in humans
Authors: Sarriá Beatriz , Gomez-Juaristi Miren , Martínez López Sara , García Cordero Joaquín , Bravo Laura , Mateos Briz Mª Raquel
Published: September 2020

Background

In many cocoa intervention studies, health outcomes are related to cocoa components without taking into account the bioavailability of the main bioactive components: phenolic compounds and methylxanthines.

Methods

The present work associates the results of bioavailability and randomised controlled crossover studies in humans carried out with similar cocoa products, so that the main phenol and methylxanthine metabolites observed in plasma and urine are associated to the health effects observed in the chronic studies. We outstand that doses of cocoa and consumption rate used are realistic. In the bioavailability study, a conventional (CC) and a methylxanthine-polyphenol rich (MPC) cocoa product were used, whereas in the chronic study a dietary fibre-rich (DFC) and a polyphenol-rich (PC) product were studied in healthy and cardiovascular risk subjects.

Results and Discussion

The main phenolic metabolites formed after CC and MPC intake, 5-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone-3′-sulfate, 3′-methyl-epicatechin-5-sulfate, 4-hydroxy-5-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)valeric acid-sulfate, 5-phenyl-γ-valerolactone--sulfate and 5-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone-3′-glucuronide, may contribute to the changes in cholesterol (and indirectly HDL-cholesterol) observed after the regular intake of both DFC and PC, in healthy and cardiovascular risk subjects, whereas 7-methylxanthine (the main cocoa methylxanthine metabolite) and theobromine, together with its content in insoluble dietary fibre, may be responsible for the decrease of IL-1β and hypoglycemic effects observed with DFC. With both phenolic and methylxanthine metabolites a strong dose–response effect was observed.

Conclusion

After the regular consumption of both DFC and PC, positive changes were observed in volunteer’s lipid profile, which may be related to the long-lasting presence of colonic phenolic metabolites in blood. In contrast, the anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic effects were only observed with DFC, and these may be related to methylxanthine metabolites, and it is likely that insoluble dietary fibre may have also played a role.
One becomes two: second species of the Euwallacea fornicatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) species complex is established on two Hawaiian Islands
Authors: Rugman-Jones Paul F. , Au Michelle , Ebrahimi Valeh , Eskalen Akif , Gillett Conrad P.D.T. , Honsberger David , Husein Deena , Wright Mark G. , Yousuf Fazila , Stouthamer Richard
Published: September 2020

The cryptic species that make up the Euwallacea fornicatus species complex can be readily distinguished via their DNA sequences. Until recently, it was believed that the Hawaiian Islands had been invaded by only one of these cryptic species, E. perbrevis (tea shot hole borer; TSHB). However, following the 2016 deposition of a DNA sequence in the public repository GenBank, it became evident that another species, E. fornicatus (polyphagous shot hole borer; PSHB), had been detected in macadamia orchards on Hawaiʻi Island (the Big Island). We surveyed the two most-populous islands of Hawaiʻi, Big Island and Oʻahu, and herein confirm that populations of TSHB and PSHB are established on both. Beetles were collected using a variety of techniques in macadamia orchards and natural areas. Individual specimens were identified to species using a high-resolution melt assay, described herein and validated by subsequent sequencing of specimens. It remains unclear how long each species has been present in the state, and while neither is currently recognized as causing serious economic or ecological damage in Hawaiʻi, the similarity of the newly-confirmed PSHB population to other damaging invasive PSHB populations around the world is discussed. Although the invasive PSHB populations in Hawaiʻi and California likely have different geographic origins within the beetle’s native range, they share identical Fusarium and Graphium fungal symbionts, neither of which have been isolated from PSHB in that native range.
Nursing diagnoses in patients under palliative care: an integrative Review
Authors: Morais Sofia Mello , Pereira Suellen Andrade , Oliveira Laura Carvalho de , Carvalho Wellington Marcelo da Silva , Costa Amanda Pedrosa
Published: September 2020

Objetivo: Identificar as evidências científicas disponíveis acerca dos diagnósticos de enfermagem para pacientes em cuidados paliativos (CP), bem como elencar os mais utilizados nessa prática. Método: Revisão integrativa, na qual foram analisados artigos publicados nos últimos dez anos, nas bases de dados: Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe de Informação em Ciências da Saúde (Lilacs); Pubmed; Web of Science; Scopus; CINAHL Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 14 estudos, averiguando-se um maior quantitativo de produções no ano de 2016, sendo a NANDA-I o sistema de classificação mais empregado para a formulação do diagnóstico de enfermagem (DE). Dentre os DE mais prevalentes, destacaram-se: ‘Dor’, ‘Ansiedade relacionada à morte’ e ‘Mobilidade física prejudicada’. Conclusão: Embora seja incipiente a produção de estudos acerca da temática, espera-se que este estudo possa contribuir para a tomada de decisão pelo enfermeiro, baseada em evidências, que possa assegurar ao paciente sob CP uma assistência digna, humanizada, sistematizada e de qualidade.
Selective Surface Reconstruction of a Defective Iridium‐Based Catalyst for High‐Efficiency Water Splitting
Authors: Pi Yecan , Xu Yong , Li Leigang , Sun Tu , Huang Bolong , Bu Lingzheng , Ma Yanhang , Hu Zhiwei , Pao Chih‐Wen , Huang Xiaoqing
Published: September 2020

Development of robust catalysts for electrochemical water splitting is a critical topic for the energy conversion field. Herein, a precise electrochemical reconstruction of IrTe2 hollow nanoshuttles (HNSs) is performed for oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions (OER and HER), the two half reactions of water splitting. It is determined that the reconstruction of IrTe2 HNSs can be regulated by adjusting the potential during electrochemical dealloying, in which mild and high potentials lead to the formation of IrTe2 HNSs with metal Ir shell (D‐IrTe2 HNSs) and IrOx surface (DO‐IrTe2 HNSs), respectively. Detailed analyses reveal that such electrochemical reconstruction has produced abundant defects in D‐IrTe2 and DO‐IrTe2 HNSs. As a result of this, D‐IrTe2 HNSs present a very low HER overpotential of 54 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 in 1.0 m KOH. Moreover, the turnover frequency of DO‐IrTe2 HNSs is 0.36 O2 s−1 at an OER overpotential of 250 mV in 0.5 m H2SO4, outperforming the most of reported Ir‐based catalysts. Furthermore, the D‐IrTe2||DO‐IrTe2 couple exhibits promising activity for the overall water splitting in both 1.0 m KOH and 0.5 m H2SO4. This study promotes the fundamental research for the design of efficient catalysts via surface engineering.
Robust Polyethylenimine Electrolyte for High Performance and Thermally Stable Atomic Switch Memristors
Authors: Yang Dongliang , Yang Huiyong , Guo Xiangyu , Zhang Haitao , Jiao Chaohui , Xiao Wei , Guo Pengqian , Wang Qi , He Deyan
Published: September 2020

Organic polymer solid electrolytes show interesting application prospects in resistive switching memories and brain‐inspired computing ionic devices. However, polymer electrolytes can easily decompose under heat treatment and their ionic conductivity can vary significantly at different temperatures. Among the reported polymer memristors, most of them lack sufficient reproducibility, endurance, stability, uniformity, and inter alia heat tolerance. Based on a molecular group that is thermally stable over a large temperature range and a structure with polar bonds for assisted ion migration, herein, a new polymer memristor is demonstrated employing polyethyleneimine (PEI) as a solid electrolyte for the first time. Atomic switch memristors equipped with PEI solid polymer electrolyte exhibit stable resistive switching at room temperature and high temperatures with a good retention, large ON/OFF ratio of 105, and stable cycle performance within a temperature range from 25 to 150 °C. The memristors fabricated on a polyimide substrate exhibit excellent switching performance at 150 °C after 2000 bending cycles, illustrating the potential for flexible electronic applications. Structural analysis reveals that the excellent thermally stable switching performance is derived from the stability of the molecular chain and a lower Tg (glass transition temperature).
Incommensurate–Commensurate Transition in the Geometric Ferroelectric LaTaO4
Authors: Howieson Grant W. , Wu Shitao , Gibbs Alexandra S. , Zhou Wuzong , Scott James F. , Morrison Finlay D.
Published: September 2020

The layered perovskite LaTaO4 has been synthesized to be stable in both (polar) orthorhombic and (nonpolar) monoclinic polymorphs at ambient conditions. Although the structural transition between monoclinic and orthorhombic phases has been well established, there is some controversy regarding a further, unidentified transition around 500 K. Here this is identified as an incommensurate–commensurate first‐order transition between incommensurate Cmc21(α00)0s0 and commensurate Cmc21 orthorhombic phases. Transmission electron microscopy indicates partially ordered stacking of different structural units in a, identifying the local cause for the modulation, whereas variable temperature powder neutron diffraction has shown the overall macroscopic modulation vector, q ≈ (0.456, 0, 0)—roughly a 2.2 × expansion in a, corresponding to an approximate 11a commensurate superunit cell dimension. The modulation shows a continuous temperature dependence until transitioning to the basic (commensurate) cell at TIC‐C. Doping the interlayer La sites with smaller Nd cations stabilizes the incommensuration to higher temperature, suggesting the modulation is geometrically driven at the A site.
Bent‐But‐Not‐Broken: Reactive Metal‐Organic Framework Composites from Elastomeric Phase‐Inverted Polymers
Authors: Peterson Gregory W. , Mahle John J. , Tovar Trenton M. , Epps Thomas H.
Published: September 2020

A phase inversion process is used to fabricate composite beads from the metal–organic framework (MOF) UiO‐66‐NH2 and the elastomeric block copolymer poly(styrene‐block‐ethylene‐ran‐butylene‐block‐styrene) (SEBS) for improved performance over activated carbon‐based protective textiles. Textiles incorporating the best MOF‐composite materials reduced steady‐state permeation of the chemical warfare agent (CWAs) simulant, 2‐chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES), by ≈60% versus activated carbon cloth. Additionally, the protection capabilities of the composite beads could be further tuned by adjusting bead size—textiles fabricated from smaller composite beads show enhanced diffusional properties whereas textiles generated from larger beads maximize protective capacity. The elastomeric beads also do not exhibit any attrition when subjected to a hardness test, whereas traditional pressing techniques result in materials with only a 20% retention of particle size. Furthermore, composites with increasing MOF content result in enhanced chemical capacity and reactivity, with the best composite outperforming activated carbon cloth against the CWAs soman (91% versus 17% reacted, respectively) and mustard (97% versus 0% reacted, respectively) over 24 h. The 80 wt% samples also have ≈1.4 and 2.2× higher adsorption capacity for soman and CEES, respectively, versus carbon cloth. Finally, mixing multiple MOFs results in optimal composites for the simultaneous filtration of chlorine and ammonia.
Dye Stabilization and Wavelength Tunability in Lasing Fibers Based on DNA
Authors: Persano Luana , Szukalski Adam , Gaio Michele , Moffa Maria , Salvadori Giacomo , Sznitko Lech , Camposeo Andrea , Mysliwiec Jaroslaw , Sapienza Riccardo , Mennucci Benedetta , Pisignano Dario
Published: September 2020

Lasers based on biological materials are attracting an increasing interest in view of their use in integrated and transient photonics. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) as optical biopolymer in combination with highly emissive dyes has been reported to have excellent potential in this respect. However, achieving miniaturized lasing systems based on solid‐state DNA shaped in different geometries to confine and enhance emission is still a challenge, and the physicochemical mechanisms originating fluorescence enhancement are not fully understood. Herein, a class of wavelength‐tunable lasers based on DNA nanofibers is demonstrated, for which optical properties are highly controlled through the system morphology. A synergistic effect is highlighted at the basis of lasing action. Through a quantum chemical investigation, it is shown that the interaction of DNA with the encapsulated dye leads to hindered twisting and suppressed channels for the nonradiative decay. This is combined with effective waveguiding, optical gain, and tailored mode confinement to promote morphologically controlled lasing in DNA‐based nanofibers. The results establish design rules for the development of bright and tunable nanolasers and optical networks based on DNA nanostructures.
Prediction of the Abnormal Properties in Monolayer α‐AlxGa2−xO3
Authors: Wei Yidan , Liu Chaoming , Tsai Hsu‐Sheng , Zhang Yanqing , Qi Chunhua , Ma Guoliang , Wang Tianqi , Huo Mingxue
Published: September 2020

The present work based on the first principle and molecular dynamics calculations predicts the new 2D monolayers exfoliated from α‐AlxGa2−xO3 with non‐van der Waals interactions. The huge differences in electronic, optical, and thermal performances have been observed between the new 2D monolayers and their bulk parents, and these properties can effectively be tuned by the ratio of Al and Ga. In particular, the thermal conductivity of monolayer α‐AlGaO3 is the highest among the 2D α‐AlxGa2−xO3 phases. This calculation can be the basis for seeking the 2D α‐AlxGa2−xO3 with machinability, suitable optical, and thermal performances during the design and development of flexible devices.
Does cover crop grazing damage soils and reduce crop yields?
Authors: Blanco‐Canqui Humberto , Drewnoski Mary E. , MacDonald Jim C. , Redfearn Daren D. , Parsons Jay , Lesoing Gary W. , Williams Tyler
Published: September 2020

Cover crop (CC) grazing can be a potential strategy to support livestock and crop production while enhancing soil ecosystem services, but research on this potential multi‐functionality of CCs is limited. We assessed 3‐yr cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) CC grazing impacts on soil compaction, structure, water infiltration, fertility, and crop yields on an on‐farm irrigated strip‐till continuous corn (Zea mays L.) silage experiment on a sandy loam with <1% slope in west‐central Nebraska. Treatments were: (a) non‐grazed CC, (b) grazed CC, and (c) no CC. Across the 3 yr, cattle grazed CCs at 5.9 AUM ha−1 with grazing occurring over a 4‐mo period during winter and/or spring, depending on the year. We measured soil properties within 5 d after grazing ended in spring before tilling and planting corn. Cattle grazing resulted in a 92% decrease of CC biomass, compared with non‐grazed CCs. Grazing did not affect soil penetration resistance (compaction parameter), bulk density, aggregate stability, pH, and concentration of organic matter and nutrients except in the 2nd yr where it reduced cumulative infiltration by 80% and increased penetration resistance from 1.23 to 1.72 MPa but such increase was below root growth thresholds (<2 MPa). Cover crop grazing had no negative effect on corn silage yields although data were variable. Overall, CC grazing for 3 yr had small and variable effects on soils and crop yields, indicating that it can be a management option to support livestock production but more long‐term data from different tillage and cropping systems, and climates are needed to further understand CC grazing implications.
Atypical presentations of COVID‐19 in care home residents presenting to secondary care: A UK single centre study
Authors: Rawle Mark James , Bertfield Deborah Lee , Brill Simon Edward
Published: September 2020

Background

Atypical presentations of COVID‐19 pose difficulties for early isolation and treatment, particularly in institutional care settings. We aimed to characterize the presenting symptoms and associated mortality of COVID‐19 in older adults, focusing on care home residents admitted to secondary care.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 134 consecutive inpatients over 80 years old hospitalized with PCR confirmed COVID‐19 in the United Kingdom. Symptoms at presentation and frailty were analysed. Differences between community dwelling and care home residents, and associations with mortality, were assessed using between‐group comparisons and logistic regression.

Results

Care home residents were less likely to experience cough (46.9% vs 72.9%, P = .002) but more likely to present with delirium (51.6% vs 31.4%, P = .018), particularly hypoactive delirium (40.6% vs 24.3%, P = .043). Mortality was more likely with increasing frailty (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.00, 1.58, P = .049) and those presenting with anorexia (OR 3.20, 95% CI 1.21, 10.09, P = .028). There were no differences in mortality or length of stay based on residential status.

Conclusion

COVID‐19 in older adults often presents with atypical symptoms, particularly in those admitted from institutional care. These individuals have a reduced incidence of cough and increased hypoactive delirium. Individuals presenting atypically, especially with anorexia, have higher mortality.
Anyon Quantum Transport and Noise Away from Equilibrium
Authors: Mintchev Mihail , Sorba Paul
Published: September 2020

The quantum transport of anyons in one space dimension is investigated. After establishing some universal features of non‐equilibrium systems in contact with two heat reservoirs in a generalized Gibbs state, the abelian anyon solution of the Tomonaga–Luttinger model possessing axial‐vector duality is focused upon. In this context a non‐equilibrium representation of the physical observables is constructed, which is the basic tool for a systematic study of the anyon particle and heat transport. The associated Lorenz number is determined and the deviation from the standard Wiedemann–Franz law induced by the interaction and the anyon statistics is explicitly described. The quantum fluctuations generated by the electric and helical currents are investigated and the dependence of the relative noise power on the statistical parameter is established.
Design, preparation, and characterization of new high‐refractive index hybrid organic–inorganic polysiloxanes: Innovative coatings for optoelectronic applications
Authors: Legrand Sacha , Hannu‐Kuure Milja , Kärkkäinen Ari
Published: September 2020

The current demand for high‐refractive index materials is very high due to their importance in optoelectronic applications. Such materials already exist in the market, but they present many disadvantages. They might contain toxic metals; their preparation can be challenging or produce high quantity of waste. Consequently, there is an urgent need to produce new friendly coatings with high‐refractive index. Hybrid organic–inorganic polysiloxanes can offer a solution to this problem. They can be easily prepared from nontoxic alkoxy silanes using the sol–gel chemistry process. Herein, a series of new hybrid polysiloxanes are synthesized from the monomer 1–(2–(triethoxysilyl)ethyl)triphenylsilane and other silanes. The preparation of the macromolecules is optimized at both stages of the sol–gel process. The polymers are characterized by gel permeation chromatography and NMR spectroscopy. Spin coating of the materials on silicon wafers, followed by film thickness and refractive index measurements, indicates that the new polysiloxanes can have refractive indexes as high as 1.6 with thicknesses varying from 2200 to 3700 nm. Consequently, it is expected that the new materials described in this report are valuable for optoelectronic applications such as high‐dielectric constant (high‐k) gate oxides, interlayer high‐kdielectrics, or high‐refractive index abrasion resistant coatings.
Graphene–polyamide‐6 composite for additive manufacture of multifunctional electromagnetic interference shielding components
Authors: Lee Kok Peng Marcian , Baum Thomas , Shanks Robert , Daver Fugen
Published: September 2020

Graphene–polyamide‐6 composite (GC) filament with 9%·v/v graphene concentration was applied as feedstock in filament‐based material extrusion (ME) additive manufacturing. The materials are characterized by melt flow index (MFI), mechanical properties, dielectric properties, and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) in the X‐band frequency range. Despite high graphene concentration, MFI is unaffected. In ME test specimens; GC has both superior elastic modulus and tensile strength at yield when compared with the neat polymer. Enhanced mechanical properties at high graphene concentration without diminished processability highlight the suitability of polyamide‐6 (PA6) as matrix material for graphene composite filaments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging indicates graphene alignment in GC after printing. In both compression molded (CM) and ME test specimens, dielectric properties and EMI SE of PA6 are enhanced by graphene inclusion. Further analysis reveals that ME has a negative influence on absorption of electromagnetic waves, while reflection is virtually unaffected.
Functionalized chitosan with butylammonium ionic liquids for removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution
Authors: Eliodório Kevy Pontes , Pereira Gilberto José , de Araújo Morandim‐Giannetti Andreia
Published: September 2020

Environmental pollution by heavy metals is currently a problem of great concern for human health. In this context, this study aims to contribute with the synthesis and characterization of chitosan functionalized with three different ionic liquids (n‐butylammonium acetate,sec‐butylammonium acetate, andtert‐butylammonium acetate) followed by its application in hexavalent chromium effluent treatment. The adsorbents synthesized (ChN, ChS, and ChT) were characterized by SEM, EDS, FTIR, BET, RDD, PSD, and XRD techniques. Afterward, the influences of temperature, contact time, and pH on the Cr(VI) adsorption process were evaluated. The solution with pH 3 displayed the highest adsorption capacities (107.31, 104.60, and 107.97  mg.g‐1for ChN, ChS, and ChT, respectively). The kinetic data were better adjusted to the Weber‐Morris kinetic model with an ideal time of 2 h. Furthermore, the influence of temperature was evaluated using the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms, with maximum capacities of 142.05 (ChN), 131.58 (ChS), and 146.63 mg.g‐1(ChT). The adsorbent displayed enhanced adsorption properties in comparison with raw chitosan by an intensification of the electrostatic interaction between amino groups and hexavalent chromium. Finally, the reusability was investigated, and significant results were observed (84.33 ± 4.87%) in the adsorption process after 4 cycles.
Preparation and mechanism study of intrinsic hard segment flame‐retardant polyurethane foam
Authors: Luo Yinfu , Miao Zongnan , Sun Tong , Zou Huawei , Liang Mei , Zhou Shengtai , Chen Yang
Published: September 2020

The hard segment of polyurethane foam (PUF) plays a special role in degradation and carbonization. In this work, flame‐retardant hard segment (HSFR) used to promote fire resistance was synthesized successfully. The limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical combustion, and micro‐combustion calorimetry tests indicated the flame retardancy of the foam was elevated by introducing HSFR. When HSFR with an addition of 60 phr, the LOI value was increased from 17.0 to 25.5%, UL‐94 reached V‐0 rating, the peak heat release rate (p‐HRR) and total heat release (THR) decreased by 63.9% and 10.0%, respectively. In addition, the compressive strength of HSFR‐60 increased by five times. Further, the flame‐retardant mechanism of HSFR was proposed. In vapor phase, HSFR could generate PO and PO2, which combine with flammable free radical and hinder segment decomposition. In condensed phase, HSFR could promote the dehydration and carbonization of chain and the formation of dense and graphitized char. This article provides a practical method for the preparation of green, highly effective, and durable flame‐retardant PUF.
Studies of thermal, mechanical properties, and kinetic cure reaction of carboxyl‐terminated polybutadiene acrylonitrile liquid rubber with diepoxy octane
Authors: Ebrahimabadi Yahya , Mehrshad Mohammad , Mokhtary Masoud , Abdollahi Mahdi
Published: September 2020

Epoxy resins, despite their unique properties, have limitations in many applications due to their low fracture toughness. One of the most effective methods to overcome this limitation is to use toughening agents, such as carboxyl terminated poly butadiene‐acrylonitrile (CTBN) in the epoxy matrix. CTBN can react with various compounds, such as epoxies. In this study, we investigated the severity of CTBN sedimentation with di epoxy octane (DEO) in the presence basis catalysts. The studied of the physical properties of the synthesized copolymer in the presence of pyridine compared to other catalysts increases mechanical properties (248.43% elongation, 0.63 MPa strength, and 32 hardness with Shore A) and decreases the glass transition temperature (−45.1) of the copolymer. Investigated the cure kinetics of the CTBN‐DEO reaction was in the presence of pyridine using a nonisothermal technique of differential scanning calorimetry, and the curing kinetic parameters, such as activation energy (Ea), pre‐exponential factor (A), and rate constant (k), were calculated by different kinetic methods. The obtained curing kinetic values with different kinetic methods are well‐matched, the Ea values are in the range of 91.3–97.1 kJ.mol−1 and the A values are in the range of 0.48 × 1011–1.51 × 1011 S−1.
Familial Clustering of Erosive Hand Osteoarthritis in a Large Statewide Cohort
Authors: Kazmers Nikolas H. , Meeks Huong D. , Novak Kendra A. , Yu Zhe , Fulde Gail L. , Thomas Joy L. , Barker Tyler , Jurynec Michael J.
Published: September 2020

Objective

Erosive hand osteoarthritis (OA) is a severe and rapidly progressing subset of hand OA. Its etiology remains largely unknown, which has hindered development of successful treatments. This study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that erosive hand OA demonstrates familial clustering in a large statewide population linked to genealogical records, and to determine the association of potential risk factors with erosive hand OA.

Methods

Patients diagnosed as having erosive hand OA were identified by searching 4,741,840 unique medical records from a comprehensive statewide database, the Utah Population Database (UPDB). Affected individuals were mapped to pedigrees to identify high‐risk families with excess clustering of erosive hand OA as defined by a familial standardized incidence ratio (FSIR) of ≥2.0. The magnitude of familial risk of erosive hand OA in related individuals was calculated using Cox regression models. Association of potential erosive hand OA risk factors was analyzed using multivariate conditional logistic regression and logistic regression models.

Results

We identified 703 affected individuals linked to 240 unrelated high‐risk pedigrees with excess clustering of erosive hand OA (FSIR ≥2.0, P < 0.05). The relative risk of developing erosive hand OA was significantly elevated in first‐degree relatives (P < 0.001). There were significant associations between a diagnosis of erosive hand OA and age, sex, diabetes, and obesity (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Familial clustering of erosive hand OA observed in a statewide database indicates a potential genetic contribution to the etiology of the disease. Age, sex, diabetes, and obesity are risk factors for erosive hand OA. Identification of causal gene variants in these high‐risk families may provide insight into the genes and pathways that contribute to erosive hand OA onset and progression.
Pregnancy in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Polić Aleksandra , Običan Sarah G.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic illness that often affects women of reproductive age. The objectives of this article are to review the impact of SLE on pregnancy and current management strategies, including commonly used therapies.

Methods

We conducted a review of available literature on the clinical course of SLE, diagnosis, management and pregnancy complications.

Results

SLE has a variable clinical course characterized by flares and periods of remission and can present unique challenges in the management of obstetric patients. Pregnancy in patients with SLE is associated with multiple risks, including fetal loss, preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, and hypertensive disease. With advancements in disease treatment, many women have favorable pregnancy outcomes, but appropriate preconception counseling and disease management remain important tools in reducing complications.

Conclusion

Given the implications SLE can have on women of reproductive age and in pregnancy, understanding the disease course and management is important in order to optimize pregnancy outcomes.
Role of epigenetics and miRNAs in orofacial clefts
Authors: Garland Michael A. , Sun Bo , Zhang Shuwen , Reynolds Kurt , Ji Yu , Zhou Chengji J.
Published: September 2020

Orofacial clefts (OFCs) have multiple etiologies and likely result from an interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Within the last decade, studies have implicated specific epigenetic modifications and noncoding RNAs as additional facets of OFC etiology. Altered gene expression through DNA methylation and histone modification offer novel insights into how specific genes contribute to distinct OFC subtypes. Epigenetics research has also provided further evidence that cleft lip only (CLO) is a cleft subtype with distinct etiology. Polymorphisms or misexpression of genes encoding microRNAs, as well as their targets, contribute to OFC risk. The ability to experimentally manipulate epigenetic changes and noncoding RNAs in animal models, such as zebrafish, Xenopus, mice, and rats, has offered novel insights into the mechanisms of various OFC subtypes. Although much remains to be understood, recent advancements in our understanding of OFC etiology may advise future strategies of research and preventive care.
Physical activity may be an adjuvant treatment option for substance use disorders during pregnancy: A scoping review
Authors: Nagpal Taniya S. , Bhattacharjee Jayonta , da Silva Danilo F. , Souza Sara C. S. , Mohammad Shuhiba , Puranda Jessica L. , Abu‐Dieh Anas , Cook Jocelynn , Adamo Kristi B.
Published: September 2020

Background

Substance abuse in pregnancy increases the chance of physical and neurobehavioral disabilities as well as many other undesirable fetal outcomes. In nonpregnant populations, physical exercise has shown to be an effective adjunctive therapy option for substance use disorders. Given the known positive maternal and fetal physiological and mental health benefits associated with prenatal exercise, perhaps exercise during pregnancy may also be a viable adjuvant therapy option for women with substance use disorders. The purpose of this scoping review was to summarize the available literature that has assessed the relationship between prenatal exercise and substance use disorders.

Methods

A search strategy was developed combining the terms pregnancy, exercise/physical activity, and substance use. A systematic search was completed in the following databases: Medline/PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and ProQuest. Substances eligible for inclusion included illicit drugs, alcohol, and cannabis. Retrieved data were categorized as animal or human model studies, and were summarized narratively.

Results

Eight studies were included in this review (five human studies, three animal model studies). Studies in humans suggest that pregnant women with substance use disorders are interested in engaging in physical activity interventions; however, known acute metabolic and physiological responses to prenatal exercise may be impaired in this population. Rodent models show preliminary evidence for improved mental health outcomes following prenatal exercise for substance use disorders.

Conclusion

The findings from this review may inform the development of future clinical trials to test the effect of structured exercise programs as an adjunctive treatment option for pregnant women with substance use disorders.
Metabolic Reprogramming is a Hallmark of Metabolism Itself
Authors: Medina Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2020

The reprogramming of metabolism has been identified as one of the hallmarks of cancer. It is becoming more and more frequent to connect other diseases with metabolic reprogramming. This article aims to argue that metabolic reprogramming is not driven by disease but instead is the main hallmark of metabolism, based on its dynamic behavior that allows it to continuously adapt to changes in the internal and external conditions.
Nerolidol protects the liver against cyclophosphamide‐induced hepatic inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis via modulation of Nrf2, NF‐κB p65, and caspase‐3 signaling molecules in Swiss albino mice
Authors: Iqubal Ashif , Syed Mansoor Ali , Ali Javed , Najmi Abul Kalam , Haque Mohammad Mahfuzul , Haque Syed Ehtaishamul
Published: September 2020

Cyclophosphamide (CP)‐induced hepatotoxic manifestations are major concern for patients undergoing chemotherapy, which often limit its therapeutic utility. Nerolidol (NER) is a natural bioactive molecule having potent gonadoprotective, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective properties but has not been explored for its hepatoprotective effect and underlying mechanism. Therefore, in the current study hepatoprotective potential of nerolidol was studied in CP‐induced hepatic oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and fibrosis via modulation of Nrf2, NF‐κB p65, caspase‐3, TGF‐β1, and associated biochemical status in Swiss albino mice. NER (200, 400 mg/kg, p.o) and fenofibrate (FF) 80 mg/kg, p.o. were administered from first to fourteenth day and CP was administered at the dose of 200 mg/kg, i.p on seventh day. On fifteenth day, animals were sacrificed and estimation of oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, histopathology (H E and MT staining), and immunohistochemistry was performed in the liver tissue. Administration of NER effectively normalized the elevated level of hepatic injury markers (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase), marker of oxidative stress that is, malondialdehyde, inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐1β, and IL‐10), NF‐κB p65, apoptotic marker (cleaved caspase 3) and increased the level of Nrf2 and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, CAT, and glutathione). Treatment with NER further reduced the structural damage of hepatocytes and markers of hepatic fibrosis such as TGF‐β1, hyaluronic acid, 4‐hydroxyproline and collagen‐rich stained area, estimated by MT staining. Findings of the current study showed that nerolidol exhibited potent antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐apoptotic, and anti‐fibrotic potential and thus acted as hepatoprotective agent. Present study represents novel mechanism of nerolidol against CP‐induced hepatotoxicity. However, further studies are needed to use nerolidol as an adjuvant in chemotherapeutically treated patients.
Enhanced filtration performance usingfeed‐and‐bleedconfiguration for purification of antibody precipitates
Authors: Li Zhao , Chen Ting‐Hsi , Andini Erha , Coffman Jonathan L , Przybycien Todd , Zydney Andrew L.
Published: September 2020

Precipitation can be used for the initial purification of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), with the soluble host cell proteins removed in the permeate by tangential flow microfiltration. The objective of this study was to examine the use of a feed‐and‐bleed configuration to increase the effective conversion (ratio of permeate to feed flow rates) in the hollow fiber module to enable more effective washing of the precipitate. Experiments were performed using human serum Immunoglobulin G (IgG) precipitates formed with 10 mM zinc chloride and 7 wt% polyethylene glycol. The critical flux was evaluated as a function of the shear rate and IgG concentration, with the resulting correlation used to predict conditions that can achieve 90% conversion in a single pass with minimal fouling. Experimental data for both the start‐up and steady‐state performance are in good agreement with model calculations. These results were used to analyze the performance of an enhanced continuous precipitation–microfiltration process using the feed‐and‐bleed configuration for the initial capture / purification of a mAb product.
Understand potential ramifications of ruling involving NCAA show‐cause orders
Authors: Lens Joshua J.
Published: September 2020

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Frederick Shaller issued a ruling in October 2018 invalidating the show‐cause order the NCAA's Committee on Infractions placed on now‐former University of Southern California Assistant Football Coach Todd McNair. Shaller's ruling, which the NCAA appealed, could have numerous, critical ramifications for college athletics if upheld on appeal.
Was Menschen bewegt, die etwas bewegen
Authors: Langenbach Kai
Published: September 2020

Die VDI‐Gesellschaft Verfahrenstechnik und Chemieingenieurwesen (VDI‐GVC) hat den diesjährigen Arnold‐Eucken‐Preis vergeben. Die mit 5.000 ϵ dotierte Auszeichnung erhielt Prof. Dr. Kai Langenbach für seine Arbeiten zu Phänomenen an Phasengrenzen.
Damit es wie am Schnürchen läuft
Authors: Waldecker Natalie
Published: September 2020

Bei den vollautomatisierten Abfülllinien des italienischen Herstelles von Wein‐ und Spirituosen‐Abfüllanlagen spielen Füllstandsensoren von Vega eine entscheidende Rolle.
Die energieeffiziente Alternative
Authors: Schnathmann Regina
Published: September 2020

Die Beumer Group lieferte eine vollautomatische Anlage, die unterschiedlich große und schwere Reifen gleichmäßig dosiert, vereinzelt und zum Drehrohrofeneinlauf fördert.
Genauso sicher wie konventionell gefertigt
Authors: Kuhn Gunther , Keller Jörg , Seemann Andrea , Braun Stephan ,   TüV SüD Industrie Service GmbH + KSB SE & Co. KGaA, Frankenthal
Published: September 2020

Additive Fertigungsverfahren sind für die chemische Industrie doppelt interessant: Einerseits werden immer mehr Grundstoffe dafür benötigt, andererseits werden additiv gefertigte Bauteile in den Anlagen eingesetzt. Die Hersteller solcher Komponenten stehen allerdings vor Herausforderungen: Sie müssen nachweisen, dass diese genauso sicher sind wie bei der konventionellen Fertigung. TüV SüD hat dafür eine Zertifizierung auf Basis der Druckgeräterichtlinie entwickelt.
Optimiert für die additive Fertigung
Authors: Sauer Beate
Published: September 2020

Mit dem Filament VICTREX AM 200 hat Victrex ein speziell für die additive Fertigung entwickelt und optimiert. Bisher erhältliche PEEK‐Materialien werden zwar für einige Anwendungen in der additiven Fertigung genutzt, wurden aber für herkömmliche Herstellungsverfahren wie Zerspanen und Spritzguss entwickelt. Die Firma INTAMSYS wird als erster 3D‐Drucker‐Hersteller das neue PAEK‐Filament von Victrex anbieten.
Beim Sparen helfen
Authors: Saulich Katja
Published: September 2020

In der Herstellung biobasierter Produkte durch biotechnologische Verfahren liegen große Potenziale für Ressourceneffizienz. Gute‐Praxis‐Beispiele zeigen, dass Unternehmen jährlich erhebliche Mengen an natürlichen Ressourcen einsparen können und darüber hinaus eine geringere Abfallmenge entsorgen müssen. Dies resultiert in verringerten Material‐, Energie‐ sowie Entsorgungskosten. Das VDI Zentrum Ressourceneffizienz (VDI ZRE) stellt im Auftrag des Bundesumweltministeriums kostenlose Instrumente als Unterstützung für die Entwicklung und Optimierung eines eigenen biotechnologischen Verfahrens zur Verfügung.