bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WMFP-Outlier: An Efficient Maximal Frequent-Pattern-Based Outlier Detection Approach for Weighted Data Streams
Authors: Cai Saihua , Li Qian , Li Sicong , Yuan Gang , Sun Ruizhi
Published: November 2020

Since outliers are the major factors that affect accuracy in data science, many outlier detection approaches have been proposed for effectively identifying the implicit outliers from static datasets, thereby improving the reliability of the data. In recent years, data streams have been the main form of data, and the data elements in a data stream are not always of equal importance. However, the existing outlier detection approaches do not consider the weight conditions; hence, these methods are not suitable for processing weighted data streams. In addition, the traditional pattern-based outlier detection approaches incur a high time cost in the outlier detection phase. Aiming at overcoming these problems, this paper proposes a two-phase pattern-based outlier detection approach, namely, WMFP-Outlier, for effectively detecting the implicit outliers from a weighted data stream, in which the maximal frequent patterns are used instead of the frequent patterns to accelerate the process of outlier detection. In the process of maximal frequent-pattern mining, the anti-monotonicity property and MFP-array structure are used to accelerate the mining operation. In the process of outlier detection, three deviation indices are designed for measuring the degree of abnormality of each transaction, and the transactions with the highest degrees of abnormality are judged as outliers. Last, several experimental studies are conducted on a synthetic dataset to evaluate the performance of the proposed WMFP-Outlier approach. The results demonstrate that the accuracy of the WMFP-Outlier approach is higher compared to the existing pattern-based outlier detection approaches, and the time cost of the outlier detection phase of WMFP-Outlier is lower than those of the other four compared pattern-based outlier detection approaches.
Research on Intention Recognition Method Based on Radial Basis Function Neural Network
Authors: Yan Han , Han Ming , Yang Ruoxi , Li Tiejun
Published: November 2020

A robot should be endowed with certain collaboration experience to recognize human’s behavioral intention. This paper provides a method based on machine learning to recognize the collaborator’s intention. A radial basis function neural network model was built for offline practice of a robot to recognize intention. Some collaboration skills can be obtained by the robot by building a map between the collaborator’s intention and the system state, deducing human’s intention based on the dynamic characteristics of collaborator and robot and taking the collaborator’s intention as the feedforward information for controlling the robot so as to estimate the human’s intention online based on collaborator’s force and robot’s motion characteristics during collaboration. The proposed method can overcome the difficulties in building the human-robot collaboration model by traditional method, especially the complicated human motion model, and difficulties in estimation of impedance parameters of human body. An experiment was conducted on a motion platform with single degree of freedom. The results prove that the collaborator’s force is reduced while synchronization of human-robot collaboration is improved, so that the compliance of collaborated motion is also improved.
Der Beitrag von ,Seniorengenossenschaften‘ zur sozialen Integration alter Menschen
Authors: Wiegel Silvia
Published: November 2020

Im sozialpolitischen Diskurs ist bei ,Seniorengenossenschaften‘ oft die Rede von deren Beitrag zur Teilhabe alter Menschen an der Gesellschaft. Die Abhandlung versucht zu beantworten, inwiefern dies tatsächlich zu beobachten ist. Durch eine Analyse empirischer Daten eines Lehrforschungsprojektes kommt die Abhandlung zu dem Schluss, dass diese Vereinigungen vor allem auf der personalen Ebene etwas zur Integration alter Menschen in die jeweilige Vereinsgemeinschaft beitragen. In sozialstruktureller Hinsicht ist ein Beitrag von ,Seniorengenossenschaften‘ zur Integration alter Menschen in die Gesellschaft jedoch nur begrenzt vorzufinden.
Fostering Local Caring Community Building through Mutual-aid Funding in Accordance with § 20 h SGB V and § 45 d SGB XI, Using the Example of the “Social Network Lausitz”
Authors: Köhne Rasmus
Published: November 2020

The socio-structural development towards an ever-increasing lifespan (in Germany), predicted by social scientists, implies a growing need of services of general public interest for those in need, especially in the areas of health and care provision. Considering the continuous skills shortage in these areas one can assume that social insurances and the welfare state might become partially incapable to fulfil their obligation to guarantee social security. Innovative alternative approaches of local provision of services of general public interest, especially in rural areas, make use of effective resources of mutual-aid organisation which is efficiently networking with other social institutions, NGOs, local businesses and the citizens. Professional and financial support is ideally given by the local administration/ the municipalities as well as the social insurers according to § 20 h SGB V and § 45 d SGB XI. This article presents and analyses a successful coordination of services of general public interest through a contact office for mutual-aid groups in the Oberlausitz/Saxony, Germany which is mainly operating in the realms of the Third Sector.
Music and Movement
Authors: Danuser-Zogg Elisabeth
Published: November 2020

The mediation of Music and Movement / Rhythmics is presented as a dual unit of structure and dynamics. The first part Structure outlines competence profiles applicable for the work with people of all ages and those with special needs. The second part Dynamics explains the characteristics of an art-based creative teaching design. Model drawings facilitate orientation at every point between the poles of structure and dynamics.

The exact definition of goals as well as the possibility of individually adjustable dynamics allows an application in various professional fields. Due to the variety of levels, numerous additional suggestions for inclusive work are provided.

This book will be helpful to teachers and students of Music and Movement / Rhythmics, Music, Artistic Mediation, Gymnastics and Sports as well as those interested in art education from a variety of fields.
Obduktion und Leichenschau
Authors: Langer Stephanie
Published: November 2020

Today, autopsies are conducted everywhere. TV series, thrillers and even non-fictional works suggest that when a dead body is examined it tells a story. Hence, the corpse works as a text that is read by a physician/pathologist. This text contains all the details about the body’s life and death. In this study, Stephanie Langer shows that this concept is a specific form of expression rooted in the present. Proving her thesis, she discusses the cultural and media history of forensic medicine in the Goethe era, modernity and the present. By analysing both literary texts and contemporary cases, she explores the media and metaphors of forensic medicine as well as the relationship between literature and knowledge.
Perforation of a Gastric Tear during Esophageal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection under General Anesthesia
Authors: Yamasaki Tomoaki , Sakata Yuhei , Suekane Takehisa , Nebiki Hiroko
Published: November 2020

Mallory-Weiss tears (MWT) are occasionally encountered during endoscopic procedures. Esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is widely performed under general anesthesia to avoid unexpected body movements. We present the case of a 68-year-old woman with squamous cell carcinoma. Although ESD was performed under general anesthesia, a gastric perforation at the MWT caused by gastric inflation was observed after the procedure. The perforation was closed endoscopically, and she was discharged without any sequelae. Although general anesthesia is useful for esophageal ESD, it should be noted that it can cause MWT, and in rare cases, gastric perforation, due to gastric inflation during the procedure.
Uma academia toda nossa
Authors: Lyra Luciana de Fátima Rocha Pereira de
Published: November 2020

Urdido em linhas epistolares, este texto instaura uma reflexão sobre a escrita acadêmica numa perspectiva performática, desvelando a experiência como principal dínamo de textos germinados nas investigações nas artes da cena no Brasil. Do atrito corpo/escritura são engendrados poderosos momentos, alçando as camadas performáticas deste ato f(r)iccional, eminentemente liminar. Utilizando como metáfora uma carta endereçada à escritora feminista Virgínia Woolf e numa pretensão de tomar seu ensaio Um teto todo seu ([1929] 2014) enquanto lúdica inspiração, cogita-se uma academia em artes mergulhada na performance e na poesia.
As Late plays de Tennessee Williams:
Authors: Toledo Luis Marcio Arnaut de
Published: November 2020

Este artigo apresenta as peças inéditas de Tennessee Williams no Brasil, chamadas late plays nos Estados Unidos, aquelas escritas na terceira fase de sua carreira. Discute-se sua recepção, os preconceitos e a inabilidade de compreensão de suas propostas inovadoras de forma e conteúdo, advindas da absorção, pelo dramaturgo, de sua presença constante nos circuitos off e off-off-Broadway, nas décadas de 1950 a 1970. Suas principais características são o afastamento do realismo, a mescla de gêneros e estilos e a exposição de expedientes da homossexualidade aberta, certamente uma narrativa apreendida das insurreições da contracultura. A leitura hegemônica, o culto às peças mais celebradas, a tendência contemporânea de adaptações, a ausência de traduções e as dificuldades de aquisição de direitos autorais dificultam o estudo, a leitura e a difusão destas obras no Brasil. São apresentadas as produções brasileiras e os escassos trabalhos acadêmicos sobre elas no país. Com base na análise desta dramaturgia inédita e contracultural, conclui-se, por fim, que Williams empregou uma poesia teatral de desfiguração para minar as convenções miméticas de uma dramaturgia que se exterioriza em metadrama e promove a cisão com os conteúdos ficcionais e formas realistas do teatro estadunidense.
Editorial
Authors: Teferra Damtew
Published: November 2020

This special issue of the IJAHE is one of the outcomes of the Second Symposiumof the Higher Education Forum for Africa, Asia, and Latin America(HEFAALA) which took place in July 2019. One of the flagship initiativesof the International Network for Higher Education in Africa (INHEA),HEFAALA was launched in 2016 to promote mutually constructive andproactive academic and professional engagements in higher education (HE)between and among these three world regions. It aims to foster dialogue,advance research and promote favourable policies in HE in recognition ofthe enormous common challenges as well as potential and opportunitieson the three continents.
Data Action
Authors: Williams Sarah
Published: November 2020

How to use data as a tool for empowerment rather than oppression.

Big data can be used for good, from tracking disease to exposing human rights violations, and for bad, implementing surveillance and control. Data inevitably represents the ideologies of those who control its use; data analytics and algorithms too often exclude women, the poor, and ethnic groups. In Data Action, Sarah Williams provides a guide for working with data in more ethical and responsible ways. Williams outlines a method that emphasizes collaboration among data scientists, policy experts, data designers, and the public. The approach generates policy debates, influences civic decisions, and informs design to help ensure that the voices of people represented in the data are neither marginalized nor left unheard.
Systematic identification of cis-regulatory variants that cause gene expression differences in a yeast cross
Authors: Renganaath Kaushik , Chong Rockie , Day Laura , Kosuri Sriram , Kruglyak Leonid , Albert Frank W
Published: November 2020

Sequence variation in regulatory DNA alters gene expression and shapes genetically complex traits. However, the identification of individual, causal regulatory variants is challenging. Here, we used a massively parallel reporter assay to measure the cis-regulatory consequences of 5832 natural DNA variants in the promoters of 2503 genes in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We identified 451 causal variants, which underlie genetic loci known to affect gene expression. Several promoters harbored multiple causal variants. In five promoters, pairs of variants showed non-additive, epistatic interactions. Causal variants were enriched at conserved nucleotides, tended to have low derived allele frequency, and were depleted from promoters of essential genes, which is consistent with the action of negative selection. Causal variants were also enriched for alterations in transcription factor binding sites. Models integrating these features provided modest, but statistically significant, ability to predict causal variants. This work revealed a complex molecular basis for cis-acting regulatory variation.
Radon and thoron exhalation rate, emanation factor and radioactivity risks of building materials of the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Frutos-Puerto Samuel , Pinilla-Gil Eduardo , Andrade Eva , Reis Mário , Madruga María José , Miró Rodríguez Conrado
Published: November 2020

Radon (222Rn) and thoron (220Rn) are radioactive gases emanating from geological materials. Inhalation of these gases is closely related to an increase in the probability of lung cancer if the levels are high. The majority of studies focus on radon, and the thoron is normally ignored because of its short half-life (55.6 s). However, thoron decay products can also cause a significant increase in dose. In buildings with high radon levels, the main mechanism for entry of radon is pressure-driven flow of soil gas through cracks in the floor. Both radon and thoron can also be released from building materials to the indoor atmosphere. In this work, we study the radon and thoron exhalation and emanation properties of an extended variety of common building materials manufactured in the Iberian Peninsula (Portugal and Spain) but exported and used in all countries of the world. Radon and thoron emission from samples collected in the closed chamber was measured by an active method that uses a continuous radon/thoron monitor. The correlations between exhalation rates of these gases and their parent nuclide exhalation (radium/thorium) concentrations were examined. Finally, indoor radon and thoron and the annual effective dose were calculated from radon/thoron concentrations in the closed chamber. Zircon is the material with the highest concentration values of 226Ra and 232Th and the exhalation and emanation rates. Also in the case of zircon and some granites, the annual effective dose was higher than the annual exposure limit for the general public of 1 mSv y−1, recommended by the European regulations.
A new species of the large-headed coastal marine turtleSolnhofia(Testudinata, Thalassochelydia) from the Late Jurassic of NW Switzerland
Authors: Anquetin Jérémy , Püntener Christian
Published: November 2020

Background

The large-headed turtleSolnhofia parsonsiis known by a handful of specimens from the Late Jurassic of Germany and Switzerland (maybe also France).Solnhofia parsonsiis traditionally regarded as a “eurysternid” Thalassochelydia, a group of small to medium sized, mostly lagoonal or marginal turtles found almost exclusively in the Late Jurassic of Europe. More recently,Solnhofia parsonsihas been proposed to be a close relative of Sandownidae, an enigmatic group of Cretaceous to Paleogene turtles characterized by a derived cranial anatomy and a wider geographical distribution. Sandownids may therefore have evolved from thalassochelydian ancestors such asSolnhofia parsonsi.

Methods

We herein describe new material ofSolnhofiafrom the Kimmeridgian (Late Jurassic) of Porrentruy, NW Switzerland. The bulk of the material consists of an association of a cranium and over 180 shell bones found together in a block of marly limestone. A second cranium and a mandible from slightly younger, but nearby localities are also described.

Results

We refer the new material toSolnhofia brachyrhynchan. sp. The new species shares withSolnhofia parsonsia relatively large head, an extensive secondary palate formed primarily by the maxillae, a greatly developed processus trochlearis oticum with a contribution from the parietal and quadratojugal, a large jugal-palatine contact in the floor of the fossa orbitalis, and a posteromedial process of the jugal running on the dorsal surface of the maxilla and pterygoid. Some of these characteristics are also present in sandownids, but our morphological study clearly shows thatSolnhofia brachyrhynchais closer toSolnhofia parsonsithan to any sandownids.

Discussion

Solnhofia brachyrhynchadiffers fromSolnhofia parsonsiin many aspects, notably: a shortened and broader cranium, a shorter and posteriorly broader upper triturating surface with a slightly sinusoidal lateral margin and without contribution from the palatine, a processus trochlearis oticum more oblique in dorsal or ventral view and less concave in anterior view, choanae that do not extend posteriorly on the pterygoids, a more developed processus pterygoideus externus, a condylus mandibularis situated anterior to the level of the occipital plane, a greater ventral exposure of the parabasisphenoid, a mandible about as wide as long, a relatively short symphysis, a lower triturating surface widened posterolaterally thanks to the presence of large laterally projecting dentary tubercles, a stouter and shorter coronoid process, a splenial positioned more anteriorly along the mandibular ramus, costo-peripheral fontanelles extending more anteriorly and posteriorly along the costal series, and an escutcheon shaped central plastral fontanelle formed mostly by the hypoplastra. In addition to the morphology of the new species, we also briefly discuss about observable ontogenetic variations and possible taphonomic origin of the assemblage.
Functionalizing Gold Nanoparticles with Calix[4]arenes Monolayers for Enhancing Selectivity and Stability in ORR Electrocatalysis
Authors: Lenne Quentin , Mattiuzzi Alice , Jabin Ivan , Le Poul Nicolas , Leroux Yann R. , Lagrost Corinne
Published: November 2020

The deliberate surface modification of nanocatalysts with organic ligands has recently emerged as a promising strategy to boost their efficiency, durability, and/or selectivity in key electrocatalytic processes. The interface between the metallic interface and the immobilized ligands promotes high electrocatalytic activity. Herein, the oxygen reduction reaction activity of gold nanoparticles functionalized with a covalently bound monolayer of calix[4]arenes is compared with commercially available gold nanoparticles, classically stabilized through electrostatic adsorption of citrates onto the gold surfaces. Nanocatalysts coated by calix[4]arenes show enhanced selectivity and stability compared to their citrate‐stabilized counterparts. These nanohybrids exhibit excellent activity with a dominant 4‐electron reduction of O2 with good electrocatalytic performances along with a high robustness under operation as revealed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses.
Impact of subdivision of pathological stage I colorectal cancer
Authors: Fujii Shoichi , Shimada Ryu , Tsukamoto Mitsuo , Hayama Tamuro , Ishibe Atsushi , Watanabe Jun , Deguchi Takashi , Tsutsumi Kenji , Matsuda Keiji , Hashiguchi Yojiro
Published: November 2020

Aim

Stage II‐IV colorectal cancers are subdivided according to TNM categories. However, stage I cases are a single category, despite the inclusion of both T1 and T2 cases, which may have different outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of subdividing stage I colorectal cancers by T category.

Methods

From 1984 to 2015, 844 patients with stage I colorectal cancer (T1: 446, T2: 398) underwent colorectal resection with lymph node dissection at three hospitals. The long‐term survival and recurrence rates were compared between T1 and T2. A Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the risk factors associated with cancer recurrence.

Results

A comparison of the T1 and T2 groups revealed significant differences in 5‐year overall (95.9% vs 91.4%, P = .008), recurrence‐free (94.8% vs 87.1%, P = .0007), and cancer‐specific survival (97.6% vs 93.6%, P = .004), and in the overall (2.5% vs 6.8%, P = .003), local (0.2% vs 1.5%, P = .04), and lymph node recurrence rates (0.2% vs 1.5%, P = .04). All local and lymph node recurrences were associated with lower rectal cancer, and this difference was significant. The Cox multivariate analysis identified male sex (P = .01, hazard ratio: 4.00, 95% confidence interval: 1.38‐11.55), T2 (P = .02, hazard ratio: 2.98, 95% confidence interval: 1.17‐7.60), and venous invasion (P = .03, hazard ratio: 2.38, 95% confidence interval: 1.12‐5.10) as risk factors for recurrence.

Conclusions

The subdivision of stage I colorectal cancer according to T category clearly reflected the long‐term outcomes.
Bonamia infection in native oysters (Ostrea edulis) in relation to European restoration projects
Authors: Sas Hein , Deden Brenda , Kamermans Pauline , zu Ermgassen Philine S.E. , Pogoda Bernadette , Preston Joanne , Helmer Luke , Holbrook Zoë , Arzul Isabelle , van der Have Tom , Villalba Antonio , Colsoul Bérenger , Lown Alice , Merk Verena , Zwerschke Nadescha , Reuchlin Emilie
Published: November 2020

There is a growing effort throughout Europe to restore populations of native oysters (Ostrea edulis), with the ecological objective of enhancing ecosystem biodiversity and resilience.

The introduced parasite, Bonamia ostreae, caused catastrophic mortalities during the 1980s, furthering the decline of this species, and is now present throughout much of the natural range of O. edulis. It is therefore important that restoration attempts avoid further introduction and spread of this parasite, which can cause lethal infections of O. edulis.

This article presents a comprehensive overview of the scale and distribution of current infection, transmission pathways, and preventive measure guidelines, focusing on the seas, inlets, and estuaries of north‐west Europe, where most ecological restoration attempts for the native European oyster have occurred so far.

This is critical information for restoration project planning in which the risk of Bonamia infection must be taken into account.
Boost success by partnering with student affairs
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2020

College athletics and student affairs have often seemed at odds with one another. But George S. McClellan, Ph.D., knows it doesn't have to be that way. As a student affairs professional who's devoted 35‐plus years to researching and supporting student learning and success, he's taken a particular interest in the positive role college athletics can play in the process.
Scilla bifolia Wax as a Source of Diverse Long‐Chain Resorcinols and Alkane‐1,3‐diols
Authors: Đorđević Miljana R. , Zlatković Dragan B. , Radulović Niko S.
Published: November 2020

GC, GC/MS and NMR analyses of Scilla bifolia washings allowed for the identification of thirty‐six long‐chain compounds belonging to six homologous series (five of which are from the class of resorcinols, a group of biologically important phenols): 1‐alkyl‐3,5‐dimethoxybenzenes, 5‐alkyl‐3‐methoxy‐2‐methylphenols, 3‐alkyl‐5‐methoxyphenols, 5‐alkyl‐2‐methylresorcinols (five compounds from each of the series); 5‐alkylresorcinols (six compounds) and 1,3‐alkanediols (ten compounds). Many of these compounds rarely occur in Nature. Retention indices of these compounds, as well as indices of the corresponding trimethylsilyl derivatives, were reported, some of them for the first time. The exact regiochemistry was unambiguously determined by two‐dimensional NMR experiments; in some cases, the complete NMR assignment was augmented by computer spin‐simulation of 1H‐NMR spectra.
Synthesis of Luminescent Fused Imidazole Bicyclic Acetic Esters by a Multicomponent Palladium Iodide‐Catalyzed Oxidative Alkoxycarbonylation Approach
Authors: Veltri Lucia , Prestia Tommaso , Russo Patrizio , Clementi Catia , Vitale Paola , Ortica Fausto , Gabriele Bartolo
Published: November 2020

A new multicomponent catalytic approach to important fused imidazole bicyclic acetic esters, whose core is present in many biologically active principles, is presented. It is based on the sequential cyclization‐alkoxycarbonylation‐isomerization of readily available N‐heterocyclic propargylamine derivatives, carried out under oxidative conditions using a simple catalytic system consisting of PdI2 (1 mol%) in conjunction with KI (1 equiv.), in the presence of AcONa as additive (1 equiv.) at 100 °C under 20 bar of a 4 : 1 mixture CO‐air. Under the optimized conditions, several N‐(prop‐2‐yn‐1‐yl)pyridin‐2‐amines were smoothly converted into alkyl 2‐(imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridin‐3‐yl)acetates in fair yields (51–77 %). The method was also applied to the conversion of N‐(prop‐2‐yn‐1‐yl)pyrimidin‐2‐amine into 2‐(imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrimidin‐3‐yl)acetate and of N‐(prop‐2‐yn‐1‐yl)pyrazin‐2‐amine into 2‐(imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrazin‐3‐yl)acetate. Some of the newly synthesized bicyclic derivatives have shown promising luminescence properties.
Cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking of the right ventricle in convalescent Kawasaki disease in a large single center
Authors: Yao Qiong , Hu Xi‐hong , He Li‐li
Published: November 2020

Background

The changes in right ventricular (RV) contractility of Kawasaki disease (KD) still remain unclear.

Hypothesis

We aimed to determine whether RV systolic dysfunction can be detected by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) feature tracking and to find its association with coronary artery lesions (aneurysm, thrombosis and stenosis).

Methods

Peak systolic myocardial longitudinal, radial and circumferential strain and the strain rate (RVSL, RVSR, RVSC, RVSRL, RVSRR and RVSRC) in the global RV and three levels (basal, middle and apical) were measured in 66 patients with convalescent KD. A total of 20 controls were included. Comparisons were made with controls and among KD subgroups divided with coronary artery lesions.

Results

RVSC (−10.575% vs. −10.760%), RVSL (−18.150% vs. −18.712%) and RVSRC (−0.815/s vs. −0.924/s) were slightly lower in KD group without significant difference. All the strain and strain rate presented lowest in the basal level. In subgroup comparison, lower RVSL and RVSRL were observed in the giant coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) group; RVSR (15.844% vs. 16.897%), RVSRR (1.245/s vs. 1.322/s) and RVSRC (−0.715/s vs. −0.895/s) were lower in thrombosed group; RVSRL (−1.27/s vs. −1.503/s) were lower in stenosis group. All the comparison in subgroups did not reach significant difference. From the analysis of receiver operating characteristic curve, RVSRL had a better ability to identify KD with giant CAA and stenosis. For the identification of thrombosis, RVSRC had a better ability.

Conclusions

Lower strain and strain rates of RV were detected in convalescent KD. More pronounced in those with persisting coronary artery lesions.
Programs teach important skills to aid virtual learning
Authors: Bannister Mary
Published: November 2020

Julie Yindra, Director of Student Access Services at Hofstra University, explained Hofstra's academic support programs and how they apply to virtual learning during COVID‐19.
Downregulation of glucose‐6‐phosphatase expression contributes to fluoxetine‐induced hepatic steatosis
Authors: Lu Shuanghui , Ma Zhiyuan , Gu Yong , Li Ping , Chen Yingchun , Bai Mengru , Zhou Hui , Yang Xi , Jiang Huidi
Published: November 2020

Fluoxetine is a first‐line selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor widely applied for the treatment of depression; however, it induces abnormal hepatic lipid metabolism. Considering decreased expression or function of glucose‐6‐phosphatase (G6Pase), a key enzyme in gluconeogenesis, or the upregulation of fatty acid uptake, causes hepatic lipid accumulation. The aim of this study was to elucidate whether G6Pase regulation and fatty acid uptake alteration contribute to fluoxetine‐induced abnormal hepatic lipid metabolism. Our study revealed that 8‐week oral administration of fluoxetine dose‐dependently increased hepatic triglyceride, causing hepatic steatosis. Concomitantly, the expression of G6Pase in mouse livers and primary mouse hepatocytes (PMHs) was downregulated in a concentration‐dependent manner. Furthermore, fluoxetine increased the concentrations of glucose‐6‐phosphate (G6Pase substrate) and acetyl CoA (the substrate for de novo lipogenesis) in mouse livers. Additionally, fluoxetine also induced lipid accumulation and downregulated G6Pase expression in HepG2 cells. However, the uptake of green fluorescent fatty acid (BODIPY™ FL C16) in PMHs was not changed after fluoxetine treatment, indicating that fluoxetine‐induced hepatic steatosis was not associated with fatty acid uptake alteration. In conclusion, fluoxetine downregulated hepatic G6Pase expression, subsequently enhanced the transformation of glucose to lipid, and ultimately resulted in hepatic steatosis, but with no impact on fatty acid uptake.
Nanolasers Based on 2D Materials
Authors: Du Wen , Li Caihong , Sun Jiachen , Xu Hao , Yu Peng , Ren Aobo , Wu Jiang , Wang Zhiming
Published: November 2020

Nanolasers, with small footprint and ultralow threshold, are promising for applications in data communication, on‐chip optical computing, and optical interconnects. In addition to the microcavity design, the choice of gain material is another critical factor determining the optical performance of nanolasers. 2D materials are widely studied and applied in nanoscale optoelectronic devices due to their exceptional electrical, chemical, thermal, and optical properties caused by the unique layered structures. As emerging materials with unique optical properties, 2D materials are selected as effective gain materials for designing of nanolasers. In this review, the recent advances in nanolasers based on 2D materials are comprehensively addressed.
3D magnetic resonance fingerprinting with quadratic RF phase
Authors: Boyacioglu Rasim , Wang Charlie , Ma Dan , McGivney Debra F. , Yu Xin , Griswold Mark A.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To implement 3D magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) with quadratic RF phase (qRF‐MRF) for simultaneous quantification of T1, T2, ΔB0, and .

Methods

3D MRF data with effective undersampling factor of 3 in the slice direction were acquired with quadratic RF phase patterns for T1, T2, and sensitivity. Quadratic RF phase encodes the off‐resonance by modulating the on‐resonance frequency linearly in time. Transition to 3D brings practical limitations for reconstruction and dictionary matching because of increased data and dictionary sizes. Randomized singular value decomposition (rSVD)‐based compression in time and reduction in dictionary size with a quadratic interpolation method are combined to be able to process prohibitively large data sets in feasible reconstruction and matching times.

Results

Accuracy of 3D qRF‐MRF maps in various resolutions and orientations are compared to 3D fast imaging with steady‐state precession (FISP) for T1 and T2 contrast and to 2D qRF‐MRF for contrast and ΔB0. The precision of 3D qRF‐MRF was 1.5‐2 times higher than routine clinical scans. 3D qRF‐MRF ΔB0 maps were further processed to highlight the susceptibility contrast.

Conclusion

Natively co‐registered 3D whole brain T1, T2, , ΔB0, and QSM maps can be acquired in as short as 5 min with 3D qRF‐MRF.
Uniparental disomy: Origin, frequency, and clinical significance
Authors: Benn Peter
Published: November 2020

Uniparental disomy (UPD) is defined as two copies of a whole chromosome derived from the same parent. There can be multiple mechanisms that lead to UPD; these are reviewed in the context of contemporary views on the mechanism leading to aneuploidy. Recent studies indicate that UPD is rare in an apparently healthy population and also rare in spontaneous abortion tissues. The most common type of UPD is a maternal heterodisomy (both maternal allele sets present). Isodisomy (a duplicated single set of alleles) or segmental loss of heterozygosity is sometimes encountered in SNP‐based microarray referrals. Decisions regarding the most appropriate follow‐up testing should consider the possibility of consanguinity (that will generally involve multiple regions), an imprinted gene disorder (chromosomes 6, 7, 11, 14, 15, 20), expression of an autosomal recessive disorder, and an occult aneuploid cell line that may be confined to the placenta. Upd(16)mat, per se, does not appear to be associated with an abnormal phenotype. UPD provides an insight into the history of early chromosome segregation error and understanding the rates and fate of these events are of key importance in the provision of fertility management and prenatal healthcare.
A 2D Model for Interfacial Recombination in Mesoscopic Perovskite Solar Cells with Printed Back Contact
Authors: Wagner Lukas , Qiu Cheng , Unmüssig Moritz , Bogachuk Dmitry , Mastroianni Simone , Würfel Uli , Hu Yue , Han Hongwei , Hinsch Andreas
Published: November 2020

A physical model to explain the 2D charge recombination in mesoscopic graphite‐based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) having a highly selective front electrode and a nonselective back electrode is presented. Steady‐state photovoltage and photoluminescence (PL) as well as transient PL are studied for a wide range of device configurations, providing insights in the interface recombination at the front and back contact, namely, the mesoporous titania (m‐TiO2) and the graphite layer. Combining experimental evidence with the first 2D simulation of a perovskite solar cell, it is found that the characteristic thick absorber layer of mesoscopic graphite‐based PSC is a necessity to enhance the photovoltage. This is because the interface recombination at the back contact is a diffusion‐limited process. The electrode spacing should, however, not be enhanced by increasing the perovskite/m‐TiO2 thickness as this increases surface recombination losses at this interface. The study determines design rules for the optimal geometry of the mesoporous layers and helps to identify the limiting recombination pathways for an improvement of future device architectures.
Access to Social Protection by Immigrants, Emigrants and Resident Nationals in the Russian Federation
Authors: Popova Daria
Published: November 2020

This chapter discusses the general legal framework regulating Russia’s welfare system and access for national citizens, foreigners residing in the country, and national citizens residing abroad to social benefits in five policy areas: unemployment, health care, family benefits, pensions, and guaranteed minimum resources. Our analysis shows that the eligibility of Russian nationals for social benefits depends either on their employment status and contribution record (for pensions and other social insurance benefits), or their residence status (for social assistance and healthcare). The overall level of social protection of citizens residing in different parts of the country may differ substantially due to the decentralized structure of the social protection system in Russia. The rights of foreign residents to social security benefits are essentially the same as those of the nationals, as long as they are legally employed and make social security contributions. However, there are two major exceptions: pensions and unemployment benefits. Social assistance benefits provided at the regional level are typically available to all legal residents, foreigners included, with few exceptions. When deciding to permanently move abroad, Russian citizens lose their entitlement to claim social benefits from Russia, apart from acquired contributory public pensions.
Diaspora Policies, Consular Services and Social Protection for Russian Citizens Abroad
Authors: Prokhorova Anna
Published: November 2020

Russia’s diaspora policies target a broad category of compatriots including both Russian nationals residing abroad and non-nationals with Soviet background, which are estimated at around 30 million people. Russian nationals abroad constitute about 1/5 of all compatriots residing abroad. Diaspora-related legislation and institutional framework are focused on compatriots living in former Soviet republics, so-called ‘Near Abroad’. Until 2006, diaspora policies addressed primarily cultural and language support of Russian-speaking compatriots abroad. In 2007, to compensate for the natural population decline, Russian authorities launched the State Program for Assisting Compatriots Residing Abroad in Their Voluntary Resettlement in the Russian Federation. Meanwhile, after 2010, the outflow of Russian nationals for permanent residence abroad increased. Between 2011 and 2017, the estimated 2.7 million people left the country to live somewhere beyond former Soviet republics. Russian citizens residing abroad have a right to pension benefits, one family-related benefit, and free access to public health services on the territory of Russia. Russian nationals permanently residing in the so-called ‘Far Abroad’ have been mostly beyond the outreach of the Russian authorities. Legislative initiatives targeting specifically this category of compatriots are rare, and often associated with control mechanisms rather than support measures.
Access to Social Protection by Immigrants, Emigrants and Resident Nationals in Senegal
Authors: Dioh Adrien
Published: November 2020

The Senegalese social protection system has been designed and implemented for the exclusive benefit of workers and their families to protect them against economic and social risks which may cause a (partial or total, temporary or permanent) loss of their earning capacity or the capacity to satisfy their basic needs. The system, which is essentially financed by the contributions of workers and employers, does not include the larger part of the population which evolves in the informal sector. The relevant regulations introduced a principle of equal opportunity for all benefits offered to Senegalese and migrant workers as well as their family members. Nationality is therefore irrelevant since wage-earning remains a fundamental criterion. Nevertheless, because of the territoriality of social security laws, the various benefits provided by the system are not applicable. The system only benefits Senegalese and foreign workers residing in the national territory. Not only is it disadvantageous to nationals living abroad, but it can also hinder the return of foreign workers to their countries of origin at the end of their professional career. The situation can be improved by bilateral or multilateral social security agreements binding the different countries.
Diaspora Policies, Consular Services and Social Protection for Serbian Citizens Abroad
Authors: Popic Tamara
Published: November 2020

This chapter shows that Serbia’s diaspora policies have given priority to economic, but also cultural engagement of Serbian nationals residing abroad. Following a discussion on the key features of the diaspora, the infrastructure of the state to deal with nationals abroad and its key engagement policies, it focuses on five social protection dimensions and shows that Serbia’s policies are limited to health and pension benefits, and this only under special conditions. Overall, the chapter puts forward the claim that the very limited social protection benefits granted to diaspora can be explained by the elites’ perception of diaspora as mainly an economic resource, and as a supplement to the country’s social-safety net.
Considering the IDD Within the EU Legal Framework on ADR Systems
Authors: Montemaggiori Flaminia
Published: November 2020

This chapter will analyse the role of IDD as the new EU legal framework for enforcing consumer ADR system in the insurance sector. After a brief examination of the main EU initiatives aimed at promoting the use of ADR for consumer’s disputes, it will consider the position of the IDD rules. Then, it will try to imagine the impact of the IDD framework on out-of-court redress for the insurance sector, with an overview of the main items that could be faced in the implementation of article 15 of the directive.
Information Duties Stemming from the Insurance Distribution Directive as an Example of Faulty Application of the Principle of Proportionality
Authors: Ostrowska Marta
Published: November 2020

IDD directive constitutes a piece of EU primary legislation and therefore it is obliged to respect the legal principles ruling the way in which EU acts towards the Member States, among which proportionality principle is of special importance. A legal act complies with the principle of proportionality if the measures adopted by the EU do not exceed the limits of what is appropriate and necessary to attain the objectives legitimately pursued by the legislation in question. According to IDD’s recitals, the measures adopted therein are proportional to the aim pursued by the IDD, i.e. customer protection. However, a live discussion boosted over the focal point of the IDD, i.e. a wide range of information duties, may lead to different conclusions and thereby put proportionality of the IDD in doubts. To verify this thesis, the author attempts to carry out the ‘proportionality test’ of the discussed information duties.
Insurance-Based Investment Products: Regulatory Responses and Policy Issues
Authors: Siri Michele
Published: November 2020

The chapter aims to analyse the recent reform of the EU regulatory framework as regards insurance-based investment products (IBIPs). The current regime provided for IBIPs offers stronger protection to all customers, regardless of the channel of distribution. In line with the EU plan to provide consistent cross-sectorial investor protection across all Member States, many IDD provisions are based on the corresponding MiFID II rules, even though some differences remain and should be further elaborated in connection with the inconsistencies, overlaps and gaps in the investor protection as far as the distribution of the IBIPs is concerned. Furthermore, several Member States have exercised the discretions recognised by the IDD as regards IBIPs mainly to gold plate investor protection measures. However, such an uncoordinated approach undermines the internal market’s objectives. Therefore, the chapter advises EIOPA to use its powers to coordinate Member States’ measures and ensure transparency about National Competent Authorities’ measures in this respect.
Packages or systems? Working capital management and financial performance among listed U.S. manufacturing firms
Authors: Lyngstadaas Hakim
Published: November 2020

This study examines how working capital management packages (WCMPs) can lead to higher financial performance. This is done by exploring the formation, importance, and systematic interdependencies within and between WCMPs. The data set consists of 589 U.S. listed manufacturing firms that are being studied during the fiscal period 2012–2019. WCMPs are studied from both a package and a system approach. This is done by combining fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis and panel data regression. In all, 11 effective WCMPs are found to be associated with high financial performance. Six of them constitute unique and empirically important packages and are also identified as systems. The findings can have consequences for managers and practitioners, as the study creates an explicit link between a firm’s working capital management and financial performance.
Steam adsorption on molecular sieve 3A for sorption enhanced reaction processes
Authors: van Kampen Jasper , Boon Jurriaan , van Sint Annaland Martin
Published: November 2020

Steam adsorption enhanced reaction processes are a promising process intensification for many types of reactions, where water is formed as a byproduct. To assess the potential of these processes, adequate models are required that accurately describe water adsorption, particularly under the desired elevated temperatures and pressures. In this work, an adsorption isotherm is presented for H2O adsorption at 200–350 °C and 0.05–4.5 bar partial pressure on molecular sieve (LTA) 3A. The isotherm has been developed on the basis of experimental data obtained from a thermogravimetric analysis and integrated breakthrough curves. The experimental data at lower steam partial pressures can be described with a Generalized Statistical Thermodynamic Adsorption (GSTA) isotherm, whereas at higher steam partial pressures the experimental data can be adequately captured by capillary condensation. Based on the characteristics of the adsorbent particles, a linear driving force relation has been derived for the adsorption mass transfer rate and the apparent micropore diffusivity is determined. The isotherm and mass transport model presented here prove to be adequate for modelling and improved evaluation of steam adsorption enhanced reaction processes.
The circum-galactic medium of quasars: transverse and line-of-sight absorptions
Authors: Sandrinelli A. , Falomo R. , Treves A. , Paiano S. , Scarpa R.
Published: November 2020

Quasar projected pairs (QPPs) can be used for investigating the circumgalactic medium of quasars through the study of intervening absorption lines in the spectrum of the background quasar (QSOB) that are at the same redshift of the foreground quasar (QSOF). Here we report on optical spectroscopy, gathered at Gran Telescopio Canarias, of 14 QPPs. In 7 cases we find MgII absorption lines associated with the foreground quasar. Only for two cases line-of-sight absorptions (LOS) are revealed. These new observations complement our previous study performed on other 30 QPPs. A brief discussion of the properties of the intervening absorption lines associated with the foreground quasar for the full dataset is reported.
Hydroxylated boron nitride materials: from structures to functional applications
Authors: Ren Junkai , Stagi Luigi , Innocenzi Plinio
Published: November 2020

Functionalization of boron nitride (BN) materials with hydroxyls has attracted great attention to accomplish better performances at micro- and nanoscale. BN surface hydroxylation, in fact, induces a change in properties and allows expanding the fields of application. In this review, we have summarized the state-of-the-art in developing hydroxylated bulk and nanoscale BN materials. The different synthesis routes to develop hydroxyl BN have been critically discussed. What emerges is the great variety of possible strategies to achieve BN hydroxylation, which, in turn, represents one of the most suitable methods to improve the solubility of BN nanomaterials. The improved stability of BN solutions creates conditions for producing high-quality nanocomposites. Furthermore, new interesting optical and electronic properties may arise from the functionalization by OH groups as displayed by a wide range of both theoretical and experimental studies. After the presentation of the most significant systems and methodologies, we question of future perspective and important trends of the next generation BN materials as well as the possible areas of advanced research.

Graphical abstract

Hydroxyl functionalization of boron nitride materials is a key method to control and enhance the properties and design new functional applications.