bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structure, vibrational frequencies and polarizability distribution in hydrogen-bonded salts of pyromellitic acid
Authors: Dos Santos Leonardo H. R. , Krawczuk Anna , Franco Chris H. J. , Diniz Renata
Published: March 2020

Structural features of moderate-to-strong O—H...O hydrogen bonds are related to the frequencies of O—H stretching vibrations and to the electric polarizability distribution in the donor and acceptor functional groups for crystals synthesized from the 1,2,4,5-benzenetetracarboxylic (pyromellitic) acid, namely: bis(3-aminopyridinium) dihydrogen pyromellitate tetrahydrate, (1); bis(3-carboxypyridinium) dihydrogen pyromellitate, (2); bis(3-carboxyphenylammonium) dihydrogen pyromellitate dihydrate, (3); and bis(4-carboxyphenylammonium) dihydrogen pyromellitate, (4). A combination of single-crystal X-ray diffraction, powder Raman spectroscopy and first-principle calculations in both crystalline and gaseous phases has shown that changes in the O—H...O hydrogen-bond geometry can be followed by changes in the corresponding spectral modes. Vibrational properties of moderate hydrogen bonds can be estimated from correlations based on statistical analysis of several compounds [Novak (1974).Struct. Bond.18, 177–216]. However, frequencies related to very short O—H...O bonds can only be predicted by relationships built from a subset of structurally similar systems. Moreover, the way in which hydrogen bonds affect the polarizability of donor and acceptor groups depends on their strength. Moderate interactions enhance the polarizability and make it more anisotropic. Shorter hydrogen bonds may decrease the polarizability of a group as a consequence of the volume restraint implied by the neighbour molecule within a hydrogen-bonded aggregate. This is significant for evaluation of the electric susceptibility in crystals and, therefore, for estimation of refractive indices and birefringence.
Interplay between packing, dimer interaction energy and morphology in a series of tricyclic imide crystals
Authors: Malinska Maura , Kieliszek Aleksandra , Kozioł Anna E. , Mirosław Barbara , Woźniak Krzysztof
Published: March 2020

Crystal morphology is a very important feature in many industrial applications. Tricyclic imides, derivatives of 10-oxa-4-azatricyclo[5.2.1.02,6]dec-8-ene-3,5-dione with differing small hydrophobic groups (Me, Et), were studied and grouped based on Etter's rule. Using experimental X-ray studies, dimer energy calculations, framework analysis and periodic DFT-D calculations, it is shown that knowledge of the hydrogen-bond pattern can be used to determine the final crystal shape. Molecules forming a ring hydrogen-bond motif crystallize as plate crystals with the {100} facet as the slowest growing, whereas those molecules forming an infinite hydrogen-bond motif in the crystal structure crystallize as needles with the {101} facet having the largest surface area.
Simulation of dielectric barrier discharge actuator at low Reynolds number
Authors: Vaziri Nima , Chern Ming-Jyh , Horng Tzyy-Leng , Syamsuri Syamsuri
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to the modeling of the dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) actuator on the Eppler 387 (E387) airfoil in low Reynolds number conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

A validated direct-forcing immersed boundary method is used to solve the governing equations. A linear electric field model is used to simulate the DBD actuator. A ray-casting technique is used to define the geometry.

Findings

The purposed model is validated against the former studies. Next, the drag and lift coefficients in the static stall of the E387 airfoil are investigated. Results show that when the DBD actuator is on, both of the coefficients are increased. The effects of the location, applied voltage and applied frequency are also studied and find that the leading-edge actuator with higher voltage and frequency has better improvement in the forces. Finally, the dynamic stall of the E387 with the DBD actuator is considered. The simulation shows that generally when the DBD is on, the lift coefficient in the pitch-up section has lower values and in the pitch-down has higher values than the DBD off mode.

Practical implications

It is demonstrated that using the DBD actuator on E387 in the low Reynolds number condition can increase the lift and drag forces. Therefore, the application of the airfoil must be considered.

Originality/value

The results show that sometimes the DBD actuator has different effects on E387 airfoil in low Reynolds number mode than the general understanding of this tool.
A design method of capacitor arrays for high-resolution SAR ADCs
Authors: Wu Yuqing , Shen Jizhong , Liang Jun , Yao Maoqun
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The design method of high-resolution capacitor arrays was proposed to improve the precision of successive approximation register (SAR) analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) without calibration and optimize the circuit area.

Design/methodology/approach

According to calculation of equivalent series capacitors and change of voltage at the comparator input node, two three-stage structures of capacitor arrays and a general design flow of the multi-stage capacitor arrays were presented. Non-ideal factors on the capacitor arrays were analyzed, and the applications of the two structures were explained based on the capacitor mismatch.

Findings

A multi-stage capacitor array for 16-bit SAR ADCs was implemented. The simulation result shows that its nonlinear error was less than 0.3LSB with no gain error and the sampling capacitance accounted for 92.42% of the total capacitance. Effects of capacitive parasitic and mismatch on capacitor arrays were confirmed.

Originality/value

The proposed method focused on capacitor arrays design of high-resolution SAR ADCs. It effectively reduced nonlinear errors, improved SNR and optimized the area of SAR ADCs. The design method was suitable for SAR ADCs with different resolutions to improve their precision.
Board structure and corporate R&D intensity: evidence from Forbes global 2000
Authors: AlHares Aws , Elamer Ahmed A. , Alshbili Ibrahem , Moustafa Maha W.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of board structure on risk-taking measured by research and development (R&D) intensity in OECD countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a panel data of 200 companies on Forbes global 2000 over the 2010-2014 period. It uses the ordinary least square multiple regression analysis techniques to examine the hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that the frequency of board meetings and board size are significantly and negatively related to risk-taking measured by R&D intensity, with a greater significance among Anglo-American countries than among Continental European countries. The rationale for this is that the legal and accounting systems in the Anglo American countries have greater protection through greater emphasis on compliance and disclosure, and therefore, allowing for less risk-taking.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could investigate risk-taking using different arrangements, conducting face-to-face meetings with the firm’s directors and shareholders.

Practical implications

The results suggest that better-governed firms at the firm- or national-level have a high expectancy of less risk-taking. These results offer regulators a resilient incentive to pursue corporate governance (CG) and disclosure reforms officially and mutually with national-level governance. Thus, these results show the monitoring and legitimacy benefits of governance, resulting in less risk-taking. Finally, the findings offer investors the opportunity to build specific expectations about risk-taking behaviour in terms of R&D intensity in OECD countries.

Originality/value

This study extends and contributes to the extant CG literature, by offering new evidence on the effect of board structure on risk-taking. The findings will help policymakers in different countries in estimating the sufficiency of the available CG reforms to prevent management mishandle and disgrace.
Identifying the important attitude of Islamic brands and its effect on buying behavioural intentions among Malaysian Muslims
Authors: Jumani Zulfiqar Ali , Sukhabot Sasiwemon
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Multi-national corporations (MNC) are investing in Malaysia to serve Malay Muslims by carrying the tag line “we are Islamic” for their products. Academicians defined it, as “Islamic brand/s”. Islamic brand/s further divided into three subcategories, namely, Islamic brand/s by compliance, Islamic brand/s by the customer and Islamic brand/s by country of origin. This study aims to identify the important aspect of the Islamic brand/s among the Malaysian Muslims, and it identifies, which Islamic brand aspect motivate Malay consumers to buy Islamic brands.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model takes on in the current study was the theory of planned behaviour (TPB). The data was collected from three states of Malaysia (Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baharu) from 236 Malaysian Muslims through a structured survey instrument. Smart-partial least squares 3 statistical software was used for analyses.

Findings

Among Malaysian Muslims, the most important attitude is the Islamic brand/s by origin (country of origin) followed by the Islamic brand/s by the customer and Islamic brand/s by compliance.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted in three states of Malaysia, and the results are based on three attitudes of Islamic brands as independent variables and buying behavioural intentions (BI) construct of TPB.

Practical implications

Current study valuable for local businesses, MNCs, other Islamic and halal institutes. This study put light and give awareness of the positioning of the Islamic brand/s. Plus the intentions of users in selecting Islamic brand/s.

Originality/value

This research pursues to clarify consumers’ buying BIs in buying Islamic brand/s in Malaysia.
Designating lawyers as reporting entities under the Kenya’s anti-money laundering regime
Authors: Pambo Kennedy Otieno
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Kenya has made little progress in its endeavor to categorize lawyers as designated non-financial businesses and professionals (DNFBPs), despite making spirited attempts in 2007, 2018 and lately in 2019. The legal professionals are, therefore, not bound by the reporting and other stringent obligations imposed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to deter possible misuse by money launderers. The purpose of this paper, therefore, is to enumerate the ongoing efforts toward designating lawyers as DNFBPs in Kenya. The paper also assesses the institutional and legislative incentives (as well as barriers) for imposing the anti-money laundering (AML) duty thereto.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a qualitative review of Kenya’s AML legislative framework and the potential support/hindrance to imposing the AML duty on lawyers. Also, this paper provides a suggestion for possible solutions.

Findings

The legislative framework in Kenya has outlawed money-laundering, and lawyers can be compelled to disclose confidential information observed in the course of employment if it embodies crime or fraud. Thus, imposing the AML obligation on lawyers is nothing out of the ordinary, rather a mere creation for a formal disclosure mechanism. However, this paper also revealed divergent views that merit reconciliation for the seamless designation of lawyers.

Originality/value

To enhance the legislative framework in Kenya, the paper borrows from the FATF’s Interpretive Note to Recommendation 23 and suggests a practical solution to the apparent conflict between the legal professional privilege and the AML duty.
Illustrating the incentivised steps criminals take to launder cash while avoiding government anti-laundering measures
Authors: Gilmour Nicholas
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the incentivised steps criminals take to launder cash while avoiding government’s anti-money laundering (AML) measures.

Design/methodology/approach

To illustrate how and when technology is most prominent in the money laundering process, this paper analyses the criminal’s methodological approach to “technology-enhanced money laundering” by examining several high-level examples. To strengthen the theoretical assessment and the overall validity of the findings, the author incorporates details from their own research and professional experience to maximise comprehension of the methodological process that organised criminals and money launderers alike look to undertake when placing illicitly derived cash in the money laundering cycle.

Findings

The AML model of “placement, layering and integration” is synonymous with presenting the process of money laundering – in the most basic or generic forms. This paper identifies that the placement stage is a primary stage through which technology is exploited to assist in the entire laundering process.

Practical implications

Using money laundering case studies, this paper identifies that existing AML/countering terrorism financing international perceptions/practices and typological studies are not adequate for presenting an accurate assessment of the process used to undertake money laundering.

Originality/value

This paper provides an examination of the practicalities behind the prevention of money laundering from a compliance and investigative perspective. The paper is of interest to those involved in policy, compliance and investigations associated with money laundering.
Exploring patterns of organizational capability alignment: a contingency approach
Authors: Srivastava Saurabh , D’Souza Derrick E.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to investigate whether the alignment between organizational capabilities is idiosyncratic to an organization or a predictable pattern of alignments can be identified across organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey design is used to collect data from upper- and mid-level managers of organizations operating in the software industry. A total of 219 responses are used to test the study hypotheses. Partial least squares structural equation modeling and regression analysis are used for data analysis and hypotheses testing.

Findings

Results suggest that the alignment between strategic thinking and absorptive capacity is different for organizations with a prospector-type strategic orientation compared to organizations with other types (defenders and analyzers) of strategic orientations. The study also finds that the pattern of alignment holds for each dimension of absorptive capacity.

Originality/value

There is limited research on the alignment between the three types of organizational capabilities (metaphysical, dynamic and ordinary). This may have transcended from arguments that if organizational capabilities are truly idiosyncratic, they should not be expected to follow a predictable pattern of alignments across organizations. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to empirically investigate and provide evidence that the alignment between organizational capabilities is contingent on the strategic orientation of the organizations. The findings offer hope for the development of a generalizable theory of organizational capability alignment in organizations.
Fishing for mammals: Landscape‐level monitoring of terrestrial and semi‐aquatic communities using eDNA from riverine systems
Authors: Sales Naiara Guimarães , McKenzie Maisie B. , Drake Joseph , Harper Lynsey R. , Browett Samuel S. , Coscia Ilaria , Wangensteen Owen S. , Baillie Charles , Bryce Emma , Dawson Deborah A. , Ochu Erinma , Hänfling Bernd , Lawson Handley Lori , Mariani Stefano , Lambin Xavier , Sutherland Christopher , McDevitt Allan D.
Published: March 2020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding has revolutionized biomonitoring in both marine and freshwater ecosystems. However, for semi‐aquatic and terrestrial animals, the application of this technique remains relatively untested.

We first assess the efficiency of eDNA metabarcoding in detecting semi‐aquatic and terrestrial mammals in natural lotic ecosystems in the UK by comparing sequence data recovered from water and sediment samples to the mammalian communities expected from historical data. Secondly, using occupancy modelling we compared the detection efficiency of eDNA metabarcoding to multiple conventional non‐invasive survey methods (latrine surveys and camera trapping).

eDNA metabarcoding detected a large proportion of the expected mammalian community within each area. Common species in the areas were detected at the majority of sites. Several key species of conservation concern in the UK were detected by eDNA sampling in areas where authenticated records do not currently exist, but potential false positives were also identified.

Water‐based eDNA metabarcoding provided comparable results to conventional survey methods in per unit of survey effort for three species (water vole, field vole and red deer) using occupancy models. The comparison between survey ‘effort’ to reach a detection probability of ≥.95 revealed that 3–6 water replicates would be equivalent to 3–5 latrine surveys and 5–30 weeks of single camera deployment, depending on the species.

Synthesis and applications. eDNA metabarcoding can be used to generate an initial ‘distribution map’ of mammalian diversity at the landscape level. If conducted during times of peak abundance, carefully chosen sampling points along multiple river courses provide a reliable snapshot of the species that are present in a catchment area. In order to fully capture solitary, rare and invasive species, we would currently recommend the use of eDNA metabarcoding alongside other non‐invasive surveying methods (i.e. camera traps) to maximize monitoring efforts.
Effect of tea polyphenols on the oral and intravenous pharmacokinetics of ticagrelor in rats and its in vitro metabolism
Authors: Wang Zi‐Teng , Xue Ying , Sun Hong , Zhang Zhe , Tang Zhi‐Jia , Liu Shuai‐Bing , Cai Wei‐Min
Published: March 2020

Green tea is widely consumed as a beverage and/or dietary supplement worldwide, resulting in the difficulty to avoid the comedication with ticagrelor for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients receiving antiplatelet therapy. This study was designed to investigate the effect of the most abundant content in green tea, tea polyphenols on the oral and intravenous pharmacokinetics of ticagrelor in rats and its in vitro metabolism. Rats were orally treated with either saline or tea polyphenol extracts (TPEs) dissolved in saline once daily for 6 consecutive days. On day 6, after the last dose of saline or TPE, ticagrelor was given to the rats orally or intravenously. Plasma samples were collected for pharmacokinetic analysis. Human liver and intestinal microsomes were then used to investigate the inhibition by TPE, as well as its major constituents on the metabolism of ticagrelor to its two metabolites, AR‐C124910XX and AR‐C133913XX. Apparent kinetic constants and inhibition potency (IC50) for each metabolic pathway of each compound were estimated. Oral study indicated that exposure of ticagrelor and AR‐C124910XX was significantly decreased after TPE administration, while no significant differences were observed in pharmacokinetic parameters after intravenous administration of ticagrelor. TPE effectively inhibited the metabolism of ticagrelor in vitro, with epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate as the major constituent responsible for the observed inhibitory effects in human liver microsomes and intestinal microsomes (IC50 = 4.23 ± 0.18 µM). Caution should be taken for ACS patients receiving ticagrelor therapy with daily drinking of green tea.

Practical Application

Potential interactions between tea polyphenols and ticagrelor were revealed for the first time. Results can provide suggestions for clinicians to optimize the dosing of ticagrelor while they are in the face of ACS patients receiving ticagrelor therapy, who also take green tea or its related products in their daily life.
Fool’s Gold: Business Power and the Evolution of the Conflict‐free Gold Standard
Authors: Elbra Ainsley
Published: March 2020

This article examines the role of business, through the World Gold Council, in the evolution of the Conflict‐free Gold Standard (CFGS). Using document analysis of meeting minutes, augmented by interviews with key participants, it is demonstrated that through the use of structural and discursive power, mining firms were able to socialise other actors (governments and NGOs) into accepting a business‐friendly standard. During the consultation process, the standard was weakened sufficiently as to allow business to continue to pursue opportunities in conflict zones. It is argued that the CFGS does little to address the issue of mine site conflict, but instead serves as a mechanism to reassure gold investors and consumers. The paper concludes that the Conflict‐free Gold Standard, like many private governance initiatives, is unlikely to address the issue it purports to. And, that, firms’ contribution to global governance should be cautiously viewed in this light.
Elevational partitioning in species distribution, abundance and body size of Australian alpine grasshoppers (Kosciuscola)
Authors: Yadav Sonu , Stow Adam , Dudaniec Rachael Y.
Published: March 2020

Changes in the physical environment with elevation can influence species distributions and their morphological traits. In mountainous regions, steep temperature gradients can result in patterns of ecological partitioning among species that potentially increases their vulnerability to climate change. We collected data on species distributions, relative abundance and body size for three grasshopper species of the genus Kosciuscola (K. usitatus, K. tristis and K. cognatus) at three locations within the mountainous Kosciuszko National Park in Australia (Thredbo, Guthega and Jagungal). All three species showed differences in their distributions according to elevation, with K. usitatus ranging from 1400 to 2000 m asl, K. tristis from 1600 to 2000 m asl and K. cognatus from 1550 to 1900 m asl. Decreasing relative abundance with increasing elevation was found for K. usitatus, but the opposite pattern was found for K. tristis. The relative abundance of K. cognatus did not change with elevation but was negatively correlated with foliage cover. Body size decreased with elevation in both male and female K. usitatus, which was similarly observed in female K. tristis and male K. cognatus. Our results demonstrate spatial partitioning of species distributions and clines in body size in relation to elevational gradients. Species‐specific sensitivities to climatic gradients may help to predict the persistence of this grasshopper assemblage under climate change.
Intraoperative indocyanine green fluorescence angiography to prevent anastomotic leak after low anterior resection for rectal cancer: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Shen Yu , Yang Tinghan , Yang Jinliang , Meng Wenjian , Wang Ziqiang
Published: March 2020

Background

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the most dreadful complications after rectal cancer surgery. Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography (ICG FA) is now being used to evaluate blood supply at the anastomotic site. The aim of this study is to conduct a meta‐analysis of the available literature to evaluate whether ICG FA could prevent AL after low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer.

Methods

Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar databases, Cochrane Library and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched to find out potential comparative studies comparing AL rates after LAR between intraoperative use and non‐use of ICG FA.

Results

A total of 1499 patients undergoing LAR in six studies were included. Intraoperative use of ICG FA was associated with lower AL rate (odds ratio (OR) 0.30; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.19–0.49; P < 0.001; I2 = 0%), overall post‐operative complication rate (OR 0.46; 95% CI 0.30–0.70; P < 0.001; I2 = 0%) and reoperation rate (OR 0.21; 95% CI 0.06–0.75; P = 0.020; I2 = 0%). The initial transection line was changed in 7.62% (31/407) of patients in the ICG group and 19.35% (6/31) of patients suffered AL. In transection line unchanged patients (376/407), 5.05% (19/376) of patients suffered AL.

Conclusion

Intraoperative use of ICG FA is associated with lower incidence of AL after LAR. The benefit of ICG FA may be that it could identify patients with high risk for AL.
Safety and efficacy of first‐line dacomitinib in Japanese patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Nishio Makoto , Kato Terufumi , Niho Seiji , Yamamoto Noboru , Takahashi Toshiaki , Nogami Naoyuki , Kaneda Hiroyasu , Fujita Yuka , Wilner Keith , Yoshida Mizuki , Isozaki Mitsuhiro , Wada Shinsuke , Tsuji Fumito , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: March 2020

In a subgroup of Japanese patients in the ARCHER 1050 randomized phase 3 trial, we evaluated the efficacy and safety and determined the effects of dose modifications on adverse events (AE) and therapy management of first‐line oral dacomitinib 45 mg compared with oral gefitinib 250 mg, each once daily in 28‐d cycles, in patients with EGFR‐activating mutation–positive (EGFR‐positive; exon 19 deletion or exon 21 L858R substitution mutations) advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS; RECIST, version 1.1, by blinded independent review). In 81 Japanese patients (40 dacomitinib, 41 gefitinib), PFS was longer with dacomitinib compared with gefitinib (hazard ratio [HR], 0.544 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 0.307‐0.961]; 2‐sided P = .0327; median 18.2 for dacomitinib [95% CI, 11.0‐31.3] mo, 9.3 [95% CI, 7.4‐14.7] mo for gefitinib). The most common Grade 3 AEs were dermatitis acneiform with dacomitinib (27.5%) and increased alanine aminotransferase with gefitinib (12.2%). A higher proportion of patients receiving dacomitinib (85.0%) compared with gefitinib (24.4%) had AEs leading to dose reduction. Incidence and severity of diarrhea, dermatitis acneiform, stomatitis and paronychia were generally reduced after dacomitinib dose reductions and dacomitinib treatment duration was generally longer in patients with a dose reduction in comparison with those without a dose reduction. Our results confirmed the efficacy and safety of first‐line dacomitinib in Japanese patients with EGFR‐positive advanced NSCLC.
Exploring dental students’ knowledge of HIV and attitudes towards saliva screening for HIV
Authors: Low Chui Yi Sarah , Kim Sung‐Beom , Liu Cyril , Stormon Nicole
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Early detection of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) allows antiretroviral therapy to commence, improving patient outcomes. Screening for HIV with saliva can be undertaken by dental practitioners. Research has found the procedure to be better accepted by patients than traditional blood testing. However, lack of knowledge and time constraints were identified as barriers to implementation for dental practitioners. This study aimed to explore dental students’ knowledge of HIV and their attitudes towards implementing saliva screening for HIV in a dental setting.

Methods

Convenience sampling was used to recruit four focus groups of six to nine dentistry students from the University of Queensland. Participants also completed a questionnaire prior to the focus group.

Results

Thirty‐three students participated in the focus groups. Students recognised their knowledge of HIV was limited, and 46% (n = 15) reported having treated a HIV‐positive patient in the last year. Three key themes emerged from discussions; knowledge and experience of HIV; barriers and enablers; and scope of practice. Students identified stigma, lack of training, cost and time restraints as barriers to implementing saliva screening for HIV. Opinions varied on if screening was within a dental practitioner's scope of practice.

Conclusions

Whilst students were open to conducting saliva screening for HIV, they identified prominent barriers limiting its implementation within a dental setting. Education on saliva screening for HIV, patient counselling and referral pathways could be integrated into dentistry curriculums to reduce these barriers. Further investigation is needed into the cost‐effectiveness of implementing screening for HIV in a dental setting.
On the putative possibility of non‐spatio‐temporal forms of sensibility in Kant
Authors: Gurofsky Simon R.
Published: March 2020

This paper defends Kant against a neo‐Hegelian line of criticism, recently advanced by John McDowell, Robert Pippin, and Sebastian Rödl, targeting Kant's alleged claim that forms of sensibility other than space and time are possible. If correct, the criticism identifies a deep problem in Kant's position and points toward Hegel's position and method as its natural solution. I show that Kant has the philosophical resources to respond effectively to the criticism, notably including the set of claims about the limits of meaningful thought that P. F. Strawson calls Kant's “principle of significance.” By Kant's lights, first, the concept “non‐spatio‐temporal form of sensibility” is meaningless, so he cannot meaningfully grant that such a form is possible; and second, there is no need to prove (e.g., from reflection on pure intellect) that non‐spatio‐temporal forms of sensibility are impossible, because insofar as the concept “knowing” means anything, that meaning is provided by our own always‐already‐spatio‐temporal case. An upshot of the argument is that Kant's two “stems” of knowledge or cognition, sensibility and understanding, are merely aspects of a single epistemic capacity rather than each a separate capacity in its own right. Many today are unwilling to take Kant's claims about the limits of meaningful thought at face value, notwithstanding their ubiquity and explicitness. This paper is therefore an indirect argument on behalf of that dimension of Kant's position: We have something significant to lose in not taking it seriously.
In the shadow of Prague Castle? The earliest history of Vyšehrad Castle (c.950–1070)
Authors: Varadzin Ladislav
Published: March 2020

There is no doubt that from the beginnings of the early Czech state, Prague Castle has constituted the state's main political, residential and ceremonial centre. After the mid‐tenth century, however, another castle in its vicinity was founded at Vyšehrad. Surprisingly, the twelfth‐century reports portray the latter castle as a location of residential and political significance comparable to the former. Such a situation has no parallel in the continental Europe of that period. Based on an investigation of archaeological and written sources, this article argues that Vyšehrad is likely to have acquired such a position shortly after its foundation and that since the very beginnings, it functioned as a kind of shadow ruling centre used in particular by those members of the ruling dynasty who challenged the actual power constellations or even the traditional political conventions.
Global human “predation” on plant growth and biomass
Authors: Jenkins David G. , Haberl Helmut , Erb Karl‐Heinz , Nevai Andrew L.
Published: March 2020

Aim

Ecological theory is not often applied to human appropriation of net primary production (HANPP), which estimates reduction of natural net primary production (NPP) due to harvest and land use. Here we use predator–prey theory to evaluate HANPP as “predation”. Macroecology and adaptive life history strategies also help evaluate relationships among global terrestrial HANPP, NPP, and plant biomass (B).

Location

Lands worldwide.

Time period

2000.

Major taxa studied

Terrestrial plants.

Methods

HANPP and potential NPP allometric scaling were estimated for terrestrial ecoregions (N = 819, for 86% of global land surface area) in the year 2000. HANPP and NPP scaling were compared and projected to current and year 2050 conditions. NPP scaling for potential versus actual conditions were also compared, as were biomass turnover rates (T; per year).

Results

Global HANPP scales predictably with B; consistent with predator–prey theory, HANPP scaling is not clearly satiated at greater B. NPP scaling supports adaptive life history strategies theory. HANPP scaling isc. 16% of NPP scaling; a conservative estimate compared to a grid‐based 22%. HANPP scaling could become 25–35% of potential NPP scaling by 2050 due to population growth, or be constrained to 20–26% of potential NPP scaling if resource use efficiency improves. However, B is more sensitive than NPP to human effects, and human population size and HANPP now dominate as predictors ofT.

Main conclusions

Three ecological theories converged here to broadly support prior empirical estimates and enable novel insights. B andTare more sensitive to global human impacts than is NPP and should be priorities for carbon budgets and conservation. Human population growth and resource use efficiency strongly affect terrestrial plant HANPP, B andT, and thus global carbon budget. Both human “top‐down” effects (evaluated here) and “bottom‐up” drivers (e.g., climate, nutrients, CO2) need to be incorporated into global carbon models.
Comparative assessment of von Willebrand factor multimers vs activity for von Willebrand disease using modern contemporary methodologies
Authors: Favaloro Emmanuel J. , Oliver Susan , Mohammed Soma , Vong Ronny
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Diagnosis of von Willebrand disease (VWD) is challenging due to heterogeneity of VWD and test limitations. Many von Willebrand factor (VWF) assays are utilized, including antigen (Ag), activity and multimer analysis. Activity assays include ristocetin cofactor using platelets (VWF:RCo) or other particles incorporating recombinant glycoprotein I (‘VWF:GPIbR’), or other GPI binding assays using gain‐of‐function mutations (‘VWF:GPIbM’), or collagen binding (VWF:CB).

Aim

To comparatively evaluate modern contemporary VWF activity assays vs VWF multimer analysis using modern contemporary methods.

Materials and methods

Several VWF activity assays (VWF:RCo, VWF:GPIbR, VWF:GPIbM, VWF:CB) assessed (typically as a ratio against VWF:Ag) against a new semi‐automated procedure for different types of VWD (1, 3, 2A, 2B, 2M), plus control material (n = 580). The evaluation also focussed on relative loss of high and very high molecular weight multimers (HMWM and VHMWM) by densitometric scanning.

Results

All evaluated VWF activity/Ag ratios showed high correlation to the presence/absence of HMWM and VHMWM, although VWF:CB/Ag and VWF:GPIbR/Ag ratios using an automated chemiluminescence method yielded highest correlation coefficients (r = .909 and .874, respectively, for HMWM). Use of the investigative procedure (VHMWM) identified fewer false positives for ‘loss’ in type 1 VWD.

Conclusions

This comparative investigation identified that new automated chemiluminescence VWF activity assays best identified relative loss or presence of HMWM and VHMWM according to activity to Ag ratios and an alternative investigative method for identifying VHMWM in multimer testing for a new commercial multimer method may lead to fewer false identifications of HMW loss in type 1 VWD.
Selecting environmental psychology theories to predict people’s consumption intention of locally produced organic foods
Authors: Chen Mei‐Fang
Published: March 2020

This study examines which of the three environmental psychology theories (i.e., the combined value‐belief‐norm (VBN) and the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model, VBN model or TPB model) can effectively explain and predict people's consumption intention of locally produced organic foods (OFs). This study collected 775 valid self‐reported questionnaires in Taiwan to examine the environmental psychology theories. A comparison of a series of structural equation modelling analyses revealed that the explanatory powers of the combined model and the TPB model can explain approximately as high as 47% of the variation in people's consumption intention of locally produced OFs; however, the VBN model can only explain 14% of the variation. Furthermore, the results indicated that people's attitude towards the consumption of locally produced OFs and perceived behavioural control determine the consumption intention of locally produced OFs. This result can be further explained through a causal chain: from an individual's stable value orientations (i.e., egoistic, altruistic, and biospheric) and environment general beliefs (new environmental paradigm) to the beliefs that their actions may affect the environment (awareness of consequences beliefs) and beliefs that the individual has responsibility to reduce this threat (ascription of responsibility beliefs). Given the same explanatory power, selecting the TPB model or the combined model depends on whether the aim is to effectively predict sustainable food consumption intention such as locally produced OFs or to comprehensively understand the antecedents and consequences of people's consumption intention of sustainable food.
Circular RNA YAP1 acts as the sponge of microRNA‐21‐5p to secure HK‐2 cells from ischaemia/reperfusion‐induced injury
Authors: Huang Tao , Cao Yanwei , Wang Hongyang , Wang Qinghai , Ji Jianlei , Sun Xiaoxia , Dong Zhen
Published: March 2020

Circular RNA YAP1 (circYAP1) was reported to participate in progression of gastric cancer. However, the role of circYAP1 in acute kidney injury (AKI) remains obscure. We attempted to examine the effects of circYAP1 on ischaemia/reperfusion‐stimulated renal injury. AKI model was established by treating HK‐2 cells in ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) environment. CircYAP1 expression in blood of AKI patients and I/R‐treated HK‐2 cells was evaluated via RT‐qPCR. CCK‐8, flow cytometry, ELISA and ROS assay were executed to test the impact of circYAP1 on cell viability, apoptosis, inflammatory cytokines and ROS generation. Bioinformatic analysis was executed to explore miRNA targets. The relativity between circYAP1 and miR‐21‐5p was verified by RT‐qPCR and luciferase assay. The functions of miR‐21‐5p in I/R‐triggered injury were reassessed. PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was detected by Western blot. Down‐regulated circYAP1 was observed in AKI blood samples and I/R‐treated HK‐2 cells. CircYAP1 overexpression expedited cell growth and weakened secretion of inflammatory factors and ROS generation in I/R‐disposed cells. Besides, we found circYAP1 could sponge to miR‐21‐5p. Interestingly, miR‐21‐5p overexpression overturned the repressive effects of circYAP1 on cell injury. Moreover, PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway was activated by circYAP1 via inhibiting miR‐21‐5p. We demonstrated that circYAP1 activated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and secured HK‐2 cells from I/R injury via sponging miR‐21‐5p.
Gene signatures based on therapy responsiveness provide guidance for combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy for lower grade glioma
Authors: Li Guangqi , Jiang Yuanjun , Lyu Xintong , Cai Yiru , Zhang Miao , Li Guang , Qiao Qiao
Published: March 2020

For a long time, the guidance for adjuvant chemoradiotherapy for lower grade glioma (LGG) lacks instructions on the application timing and order of radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy. We, therefore, aimed to develop indicators to distinguish between the different beneficiaries of RT and chemotherapy, which would provide more accurate guidance for combined chemoradiotherapy. By analysing 942 primary LGG samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) databases, we trained and validated two gene signatures (Rscore and Cscore) that independently predicted the responsiveness to RT and chemotherapy (Rscore AUC = 0.84, Cscore AUC = 0.79) and performed better than a previous signature. When the two scores were combined, we divided patients into four groups with different prognosis after adjuvant chemoradiotherapy: RSCS (RT‐sensitive and chemotherapy‐sensitive), RSCR (RT‐sensitive and chemotherapy‐resistant), RRCS (RT‐resistant and chemotherapy‐sensitive) and RRCR (RT‐resistant and chemotherapy‐resistant). The order and dose of RT and chemotherapy can be adjusted more precisely based on this patient stratification. We further found that the RRCR group exhibited a microenvironment with significantly increased T cell inflammation. In silico analyses predicted that patients in the RRCR group would show a stronger response to checkpoint blockade immunotherapy than other patients.
The relationship between optimism and job satisfaction for Chinese specialist nurses: A serial‐multiple mediation model
Authors: Zhang Ting , Wei Qiang , Ma Shao‐yong , Li Hui‐ping
Published: March 2020

Aim

This study aimed to examine the relationship between optimism, core self‐evaluations, positive coping strategies, and job satisfaction for Chinese specialist nurses.

Methods

A cross‐sectional design was used. Two hundred and seventy‐eight Chinese specialist nurses answered the Chinese Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire, the Chinese Revised Life Orientation Test, the Chinese Core Self‐Evaluations Scale, and the Chinese Simplified Coping Style Scale. Descriptive analysis, independent‐sample T‐tests, one‐way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation analyses, and bootstrap method were conducted to analyze data.

Results

Total effect (c = 0.860, SE = 0.143, 95% CI 0.579–1.142) of optimism on job satisfaction was significant. The path through single mediation of core self‐evaluations (point estimate = 0.165; 95% CI 0.041–0.318), the path through the single mediation of positive coping (point estimate = 0.124; 95% CI 0.042–0.254), and the path through both mediators (point estimate = 0.033; 95% CI 0.005–0.085) were all statistically significant. The total indirect effect was also statistically significant (point estimate = 0.322; 95% CI 0.151–0.535).

Conclusions

This study concluded that optimism was first sequentially associated with core self‐evaluations and then associated with positive coping strategies, which was in turn related to job satisfaction of Chinese specialist nurses. Clinical nursing administrators should take measures that focus on improving specialist nurse job satisfaction to further improve their retention rates.
End‐to‐end image analysis pipeline for liquid‐phase electron microscopy
Authors: MARCHELLO G. , DE PACE C. , DURO‐CASTANO A. , BATTAGLIA G. , RUIZ‐PÉREZ L.
Published: March 2020

Liquid phase transmission electron microscopy allows the imaging of materials in liquid environments. The sample is encapsulated within electron‐beam transparent windows and hence protected by the ultrahigh vacuum necessary within the electron gun. Such an approach allows to study biological and soft materials in their natural environment and offers the possibility of accessing their dynamic nature. Yet, the electron beam scattering from the windows and solvent increases the image noise and blur. Herein, we propose a pipeline to both de‐noise and sharpen images obtained by liquid transmission electron microscopy. We develop the workflow in a way that it does not require any human interference, nor introduce artefacts, but actually unveils features of the imaged samples covered by the noise and the blur.

Lay Description

Transmission Electron Microscopy TEM is one of the most powerful techniques for structural determination at the nanoscale, with the ability to image matter down to the atomic level. TEM is only possible by keeping the electron beam under high vacuum in order to avoid undesired scattering events in the beam path. High vacuum means that the TEM samples must conventionally be in solid‐state. Thus, samples in liquid form or containing liquids, like water, need special preparation techniques which tend to alter the structure and chemical nature of the sample. Such alterations are particularly critical for biological and soft organic materials where the structures are controlled by the presence of water and/or other liquids. The development of new cameras, materials and sample holders have made possible for TEM to be performed on liquid samples. Liquid Phase Transmission Electron Microscopy (LTEM) offers the possibility to investigate nanoscopic structures in liquid state and monitor dynamic processes. However important limitations come from the liquid nature of samples in the imaging process such as the low contrast afforded by organic and biological materials and additional noise and blur introduced by the liquid sample and its thickness. Existing image analysis algorithms for TEM result inadequate for LTEM. The end‐to‐end image analysis method herein has the ability to recover the original images together with their sharpness, without introducing any artefacts. The proposed algorithms offer the great advantage of unveiling image details which are not usually seen during imaging, thus allowing a better understanding of the nature, structure and ultimately the function of the investigated structures. The fully automatised analysis method allows to efficiently process dozens of images in few hours, improving dramatically the performance of LTEM imaging
The incudopetrosal joint of the human middle ear: a transient morphology in fetuses
Authors: Rodríguez‐Vázquez José Francisco , Yamamoto Masahito , Kim Ji Hyun , Jin Zhe‐Wu , Katori Yukio , Murakami Gen
Published: March 2020

In spite of the amount of research on fetal development of the human middle ear and ear ossicles, there has been no report showing a joint between the short limb of incus and the otic capsule or petrous part of the temporal bone. According to observations of serial histological sections from 65 embryos and fetuses at 7–17 weeks of development, the incudopetrosal joint exhibited a developmental sequence similar to the other joints of ossicles, with an appearance of an interzone followed by a trilaminar configuration at 7–12 weeks, a joint cavitation at 13–15 weeks and development of intraarticular and capsular ligaments at 16–17 weeks. These processes occurred at the same time or slightly later than any other joint. Thus, the joint development might coordinate with vibrating ossicles in utero. The growing short limb of incus appeared to accelerate an expansion of the epitympanic recess of the tympanic cavity. Additional observations of five late‐stage fetuses demonstrated the incudopetrosal joint located in the fossa incudis joint changing to syndesmosis. Consequently, a real joint with a cavity existed transiently between the human neurocranium and the first pharyngeal arch derivative (i.e. incus) in contrast to the tympanostapedial joint or syndesmosis between the neurocranium and the second arch derivative. The newly described joint might have an effect on the widely accepted primary jaw concept: the mammalian jaw should thus have been created within the first pharyngeal arch, although the connection with neurocranium by the stapes is of a different origin.