bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of VFD Operations for Transporting Equipment of Packages
Authors: Urmoniene Lione , Dikun Jelena , Januteniene Jolanta
Published: February 2021

This study is focused on the efficiency of automated transferring system of packages equipped by variable-frequency drive (VFD) and servo drive motor. It was found that rotation frequency of induction motors and linear speed of servo drive decisively affected the unit efficiency that operates in the periodic mode. The system duty cycle was divided in two separate parts taking into account time spans needed to complete the specific tasks by each separate equipment of the system. In order to reduce the power usage of the system, the duration of each part of cycle was extended. Lowered electricity consumption leads to the extension of each cycle’s stage operating times. Frequencies of motors and linear speed of servo drive motors were optimized depending on cycle stages duration. Optimized frequency and linear speed values were calculated and loaded into motors controllers, and the efficiency of each separate equipment was measured, as well as total efficiency of the system. Experimental system debugging using optimized parameters proved that system efficiency increases up to 60 %, and that is closely matched with calculated values.
Analysis, Design, and Actual Fabrication of a Hybrid Microstrip-SIW Bandpass Filter Based on Cascaded Hardware Integration at X-Band
Authors: Guvenli Kemal , Yenikaya Sibel , Secmen Mustafa
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the Microstrip-Substrate Integrated Waveguide (M-SIW) bandpass filter is designed, simulated, and fabricated based on the theoretical analysis. The Substrate Integrated Waveguide (SIW) highpass filter and the microstrip lowpass filter are combined in a hybrid design to achieve the M-SIW bandpass filter in the X-band. This design is more comprehensible and easier to achieve a bandpass filter at a desired frequency. The SIW highpass filter and the microstrip lowpass filter are connected in series to achieve the bandpass filter. To the measured results of the fabricated M-SIW bandpass filter, the center frequency is 10.20 GHz and the bandwidth is 2.40 GHz. When the analytical and measurement results are compared, the frequency change in the cut-off frequency is 6.02 % and the frequency change in the bandwidth is 8.74 %. It is generally seen that analytical, simulation, and measurement results are compatible with each other. The M-SIW bandpass filter can be broadly used in radar, Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), and satellite technologies. The filters are simulated in Computer Simulation Technology (CST) Studio Suite.
Case Study: Coefficient Training in Paley-Wiener Space, FFT, and Wavelet Theory
Authors: Kikodio Patrick Kayupe
Published: February 2021

Bessel functions form an important class of special functions and are applied almost everywhere in mathematical physics. They are also called cylindrical functions, or cylindrical harmonics. This chapter is devoted to the construction of the generalized coherent state (GCS) and the theory of Bessel wavelets. The GCS is built by replacing the coefficient zn/n!,z∈C of the canonical CS by the cylindrical Bessel functions. Then, the Paley-Wiener space PW1 is discussed in the framework of a set of GCS related to the cylindrical Bessel functions and to the Legendre oscillator. We prove that the kernel of the finite Fourier transform (FFT) of L2-functions supported on −11 form a set of GCS. Otherwise, the wavelet transform is the special case of CS associated respectively with the Weyl-Heisenberg group (which gives the canonical CS) and with the affine group on the line. We recall the wavelet theory on R. As an application, we discuss the continuous Bessel wavelet. Thus, coherent state transformation (CST) and continuous Bessel wavelet transformation (CBWT) are defined. This chapter is mainly devoted to the application of the Bessel function.
Wavelet Theory: Applications of the Wavelet
Authors: S. Mechee Mohammed , M. Hussain Zahir , Ismael Salman Zahrah
Published: February 2021

In this Chapter, continuous Haar wavelet functions base and spline base have been discussed. Haar wavelet approximations are used for solving of differential equations (DEs). The numerical solutions of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and fractional differential equations (FrDEs) using Haar wavelet base and spline base have been discussed. Also, Haar wavelet base and collocation techniques are used to approximate the solution of Lane-Emden equation of fractional-order showing that the applicability and efficacy of Haar wavelet method. The numerical results have clearly shown the advantage and the efficiency of the techniques in terms of accuracy and computational time. Wavelet transform studied as a mathematical approach and the applications of wavelet transform in signal processing field have been discussed. The frequency content extracted by wavelet transform (WT) has been effectively used in revealing important features of 1D and 2D signals. This property proved very useful in speech and image recognition. Wavelet transform has been used for signal and image compression.
Fratelli tutti and the Responsibility to Protect
Authors: Christiansen Drew ,   Villanova University
Published: February 2021

Fratelli tutti expresses skepticism about the ability of the just-war tradition to provide guidance on the state use of force. It is dismissive of a whole range of rationales for going to war. In rejecting humanitarian “excuses,” Pope Francis puts to question the Church’s support even for armed enforcement of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P). In place of abstract moral reasoning, Francis invites contemplation of the suffering of the victims of war. He expands the horizon of analysis from particular acts to consideration of the cascading consequences of war. He invites the military to color their warrior ethic with the kindness of Christ. In practice, his teaching implies increased attention to the ius postbellum and “the responsibility to rebuild” after armed conflict.
Using Values as Evidence When There’s Evidence for Your Values
Authors: Clough Sharyn ,   The Society for Philosophy in the Contemporary World
Published: February 2021

I have argued that political values are beliefs informed, more or less well, by the evidence of experience and that, where relevant and well-supported by evidence, the inclusion of political values in scientific theorizing can increase the objectivity of research (e.g., Clough 2003, 2004, 2011). The position I endorse has been called the “values-as-evidence” approach (Goldenberg 2013). In this essay I respond to three kinds of resistance to this approach, using examples of feminist political values. Solomon (2012) questions whether values are beliefs that can be tested, Alcoff (2006) argues that even if our values are beliefs that can be tested, testing them might not be desirable because doing so assigns these important values a contingency that weakens their normative force, and Yap (2016) argues that the approach is too idealistic in its articulation of the role of evidence in our political deliberations. In response, I discuss the ways that values can be tested, I analyze the evidential strength of feminist values in science, and I argue that the evidence-based nature of these values is neither a weakness nor an idealization. Problems with political values affecting science properly concern the dogmatic ways that evaluative beliefs are sometimes held—a problem that arises with dogmatism toward descriptive beliefs as well. I conclude that scientists, as with the rest of us, ought to adopt a pragmatically-inclined appreciation of the fallible, inductive process by which we gather evidence in support of any of our beliefs, whether they are described as evaluative or descriptive.
The logical inconsistency in making sense of an ineffable God of Islam
Authors: Ahsan Abbas ,   Gnomon Center for the Humanities
Published: February 2021

With the advent of classical logic we are continuing to observe an adherence to the laws of logic. Moreover, the system of classical logic exhibits a prominent role within analytic philosophy. Given that the laws of logic have persistently endured in actively defining classical logic and its preceding system of logic, it begs the question as to whether it actually proves to be consistent with Islam. To consider this inquiry in a broader manner; it would be an investigation into the consistency between Islam and the logic which has been the predominant driving force of analytic philosophy. Despite the well documented engagement and novel contributions made in the field of logic by Arab and Islamic theologians/logicians, I think this question deserves examination not just in terms of classical logic but also from perspectives which go beyond classical logic, namely, non-classical logic. Doing so, would I believe, retain this inquiry within the purview of analytic philosophy despite the reference to non-classical logic. To be more specific, this question would be directed toward the Islamic theologian who espouses the system of classical logic in attempting to make sense of an absolute ineffable God of Islam. The inquiry would seek to determine if classical logic is consistent (amenable) in making sense of an absolute ineffable God of Islam. This would principally involve an analysis which determines whether the metaphysical assumptions of the laws of logic (more specifically the law of non-contradiction) are consistent in making sense of an absolute ineffable God of Islam. I shall argue that it is inconsistent. I shall establish my position on this matter by demonstrating why classical logic is inconsistent (not amenable) with an absolute ineffable God of Islam. Although, I am principally concerned with classical logic, my argument is as applicable to all earlier systems of logic as much as it is to classical logic. This is on the basis that both systems of logic, namely, all preceding systems and classical logic, consider the laws of logic as defining features.
Confusion or Precision?
Authors: Novák Lukáš ,   University of South Bohemia
Published: February 2021

This paper is an attempt to explicate, using the method of conceptual reconstruction rather than historical, text-oriented analysis, the plurality of meanings of two connected terms that play an important role in scholastic thought: “confusio” and “praecisio”. These terms are used in a plurality of meanings by the scholastics, and sometimes even in one and the same context. The aim of this paper is to disentangle these various meanings from each other, offer their precise definitions and explore not only their interrelations, but also their role and impact in such crucial matters as theory of abstraction, realism-nominalism dispute, theory of science, or theory of analogy.
A Rose by Any Other Name…
Authors: Biondi Paolo C. ,   University of South Bohemia
Published: February 2021

The question of how, according to Aristotle, the principles of science are acquired remains contested among scholars. An aspect of this broader topic concerns the role of induction, and whether it is able to provide us with knowledge of natural necessity without the assistance of intuition (nous). In a recent publication in this journal, David Botting argues in favour of the enumerative/empiricist interpretation of induction and criticizes the intuitive/rationalist interpretation of it, a version of which was defended in one of my publications. He thinks that Aristotle is like Hume: both understand the cognitive process of induction similarly; and, both are equally skeptical about acquiring knowledge of natural necessity through induction. My reply argues that reading Aristotle’s induction in Humean terms is problematic in several respects. I argue, in addition, that natural necessity can be known through induction if nous is involved. My explanation of how this is possible relies on thinking of the act of noēsis in terms of an act of recognition. Botting claims, furthermore, that Aristotle only differs from Hume in that the former does have a non-inductive and non-intuitive method by which natural necessity may become known, and which Botting calls “the constructive proof of necessity”. My reply examines this method, showing how certain steps in it rely on cognitive acts that are really acts of intuition merely expressed in Humean terms. Despite the criticisms, I end with suggestions for how Botting’s account might offer original paths of research to Aristotle scholars seeking to answer the question of the acquisition of principles of science, particularly in the early stages of this process.
Resposta da biomassa microbiana a diferentes corretivos de solo
Authors: Vasques Natalia Caetano , Lustri Bárbara Maria , Ramari Thais De Oliveira Iácono , Gasparotto Francielli
Published: February 2021

Os microrganismos são importantes indicadores biológicos respondendo rapidamente às alterações desencadeadas por ações realizadas pelo homem. No Brasil, devido a característica ácida dos solos, realiza-se o processo de calagem visando o desenvolvimento adequado das culturas agrícolas. A neutralização da solução do solo pode influenciar a população microbiana e os processos por ela mediados. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar as alterações na população microbiana do solo ao longo do tempo desencadeadas pela aplicação de diferentes corretivos agrícolas. Para isso, foi coletado a camada superficial de um solo argiloso e através da necessidade de calagem aplicou-se os tratamentos: T1 – Testemunha; T2 - Calcário calcítico convencional; T3 – Se Power; T4 – Se Power Bio, com 4 repetições/tratamento. As amostras para análise microbiológica foram coletadas antes da aplicação dos tratamentos e aos 30, 60 e 90 dias após aplicação. Foram pesadas 10g de solo a cada 5cm de profundidade e estas diluídas em série a 10-4 de onde foi retirada uma alíquota de 0,1 mL e disposta sob o meio BDA. A aplicação dos corretivos de solo proporcionou variação do pH do solo na camada de 0-5 cm durante o período avaliado, com valor máximo aos 30 dias após a aplicação. Ocorreram alterações tanto na população de bactérias quanto de fungos presentes nas amostras de solo em todas as profundidades e tratamentos avaliados. O tratamento com o produto Se Power Bio apresentou acréscimo diferencial na microbiota, possivelmente devido a existência de cepas bacterianas no mesmo, o que pode favorecer a sustentabilidade dos sistemas agroambientais de produção.
Évolution des critères d’investissement des business angels : de la présélection des projets à l’investissement final1
Authors: Bellier Annie , Idi Cheffou Abdoulkarim
Published: February 2021

Cette étude sur les réseaux structurés de business angels porte sur l’évolution des critères de sélection des projets entrepreneuriaux en vue d’un financement, entre deux stades successifs du processus, à partir de données réelles et d’évaluations à chaud. Au niveau de la présélection, les instructeurs chargés d’étudier les projets exigent de tout projet d’être porté par des entrepreneurs qui présentent des compétences managériales fortes tout en proposant simultanément un plan d’affaires qui paraît crédible. Au stade de la plénière en revanche, les business angels se soucient particulièrement de l’avantage concurrentiel des projets. Les entrepreneurs doivent inspirer confiance aux business angels tout au long du processus de sélection alors que leur capital social ne semble pas pris en compte par ceux-ci.
Corps féminins, corps sociaux : les personnages féministes d’Eugénie Beaudry
Authors: Garneau Marie-Claude
Published: February 2021

Cet article s’intéresse aux représentations des corps féminins dans les textesGunshot de Lulla West (pars pas)(2011),Le trou(2014) etSimone et le whole shebang(2016) de l’autrice dramatique Eugénie Beaudry. En nous appuyant notamment sur les concepts de sexage et d’appropriation de Colette Guillaumin (1992), de même que sur l’idée de la « conscience des dominées », formulée par Nicole-Claude Mathieu (2013 [1991]), nous entendons démontrer en quoi les corps des personnages féminins chez Beaudry sont en fait des corps à portée sociale, des représentations qui, en cherchant à se libérer des diverses formes d’appropriation (Guillaumin, 1992) auxquelles elles sont soumises, produisent des discours singuliers sur l’émancipation. Examinés sous cet angle, les textes de Beaudry révèlent une diversité de représentations des femmes qui nous renseignent tout autant sur des enjeux sociopolitiques d’envergure que sur les potentialités de la fiction féministe.
Antigone à Montréal : Alexis. Una tragedia greca de Motus
Authors: Sacco Daniela
Published: February 2021

Cet article analyse Alexis. Una tragedia greca, le spectacle de la compagnie italienne Motus présenté à Montréal dans le cadre du Festival TransAmériques (FTA) en juin 2012. La réflexion est concentrée sur l’opération métathéâtrale et documentaire proposée par Motus à travers son utilisation du montage, de la citation et du geste. Le spectacle est ici situé en comparaison avec les Antigone de Bertolt Brecht et du Living Theatre, et considéré dans le rapport qu’il instaure avec le contexte politique et culturel particulier du Québec.
From ‘It Rarely Happens’ to ‘It’s Worse for Men’
Authors: Touquet Heleen , Chynoweth Sarah , Martin Sarah , Reis Chen , Myrttinen Henri , Schulz Philipp , Turner Lewis , Duriesmith David
Published: February 2021

Sexual violence against men and boys in conflict and displacement has garnered
increasing attention over the past decade and has been recognised in UN Security
Resolution 2467. Despite increased evidence and understanding of the issue,
myths and misconceptions nevertheless abound. The authors of this article
– practitioners and academics with extensive experience in the field
– aim to dispel ten of the most common misconceptions that we have
encountered, and to highlight the current evidence base regarding sexual
violence against men and boys in humanitarian settings. We argue that just as
there is no universal experience of sexual violence for women and girls, there
is no universal experience for men and boys, or for nonbinary people. In order
to address the complexities of these experiences, a survivor-centred,
intersectional approach is needed.
Empowering Difference
Authors: Fal-Dutra Santos Ricardo
Published: February 2021

Despite increasing attention to gender issues in the humanitarian sector, the
notion of gender equality as a humanitarian goal remains largely rejected, as
some argue it would require interfering with cultural values and practices, and
thus lie beyond the remit of humanitarianism. This paper questions this by
examining the close relationship between certain humanitarian goals, and
cultural values and practices. It ultimately calls for a gender-transformative
humanitarian action that recognises and supports local feminist actors, in an
effort to transform gender relations both in local communities and within
humanitarianism itself.
Fotografías que cuentan historias
Authors: Creus Amalia
Published: February 2021

En Un séptimo hombre, John Berger y Jean Mohr narran, en una combinación de texto y fotografías, experiencias de trabajadores emigrantes en la Europa de los años 60. El libro, cuya primera edición se publicó en 1973, tenía el objetivo explícito de mostrar hasta qué punto la economía de las naciones ricas de Europa había pasado a depender, en aquel entonces, de la mano de obra procedente de las naciones más pobres.
Entretejiendo la Red
Authors: Martínez Martínez Silvia
Published: February 2021

La conectividad es una de las características propias de la sociedad actual. Los nuevos dispositivos y las mejoras comunicativas amplían las posibilidades de enviar y recibir contenidos en un entorno donde las barreras físicas y temporales se diluyen. No obstante, a pesar de las ventajas que nos ofrece la Red global, su consolidación se va cubriendo de un entretejido complejo en el que derechos, obligaciones y responsabilidades marcan el dibujo del telar informativo.
The Changing Landscape of Open Access Publishing: Can Open Access Publishing Make the Scholarly World More Equitable and Productive?
Authors: Dudley Richard G.
Published: February 2021

Almost 50% of scholarly articles are now open access in some form. This greatly benefits scholars at most institutions and is especially helpful to independent scholars and those without access to libraries. It also furthers the long-standing idea of knowledge as a public good. The changing dynamics of open access (OA) threaten this positive development by solidifying the pay-to-publish OA model which further marginalizes peripheral scholars and incentivizes the development of  sub-standard and predatory journals. Causal loop diagrams (CLDs) are used to illustrate these interactions.
Low-cost intelligent surveillance system based on fast CNN
Authors: Sabri Zaid Saeb , Li Zhiyong
Published: February 2021

Smart surveillance systems are used to monitor specific areas, such as homes, buildings, and borders, and these systems can effectively detect any threats. In this work, we investigate the design of low-cost multiunit surveillance systems that can control numerous surveillance cameras to track multiple objects (i.e., people, cars, and guns) and promptly detect human activity in real time using low computational systems, such as compact or single board computers. Deep learning techniques are employed to detect certain objects to surveil homes/buildings and recognize suspicious and vital events to ensure that the system can alarm officers of relevant events, such as stranger intrusions, the presence of guns, suspicious movements, and identified fugitives. The proposed model is tested on two computational systems, specifically, a single board computer (Raspberry Pi) with the Raspbian OS and a compact computer (Intel NUC) with the Windows OS. In both systems, we employ components, such as a camera to stream real-time video and an ultrasonic sensor to alarm personnel of threats when movement is detected in restricted areas or near walls. The system program is coded in Python, and a convolutional neural network (CNN) is used to perform recognition. The program is optimized by using a foreground object detection algorithm to improve recognition in terms of both accuracy and speed. The saliency algorithm is used to slice certain required objects from scenes, such as humans, cars, and airplanes. In this regard, two saliency algorithms, based on local and global patch saliency detection are considered. We develop a system that combines two saliency approaches and recognizes the features extracted using these saliency techniques with a conventional neural network. The field results demonstrate a significant improvement in detection, ranging between 34% and 99.9% for different situations. The low percentage is related to the presence of unclear objects or activities that are different from those involving humans. However, even in the case of low accuracy, recognition and threat identification are performed with an accuracy of 100% in approximately 0.7 s, even when using computer systems with relatively weak hardware specifications, such as a single board computer (Raspberry Pi). These results prove that the proposed system can be practically used to design a low-cost and intelligent security and tracking system.
Characterization and functional analysis of the Hydroxycinnamoyl-CoA: shikimate hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (HCT) gene family in poplar
Authors: Chao Nan , Qi Qi , Li Shuang , Ruan Brent , Jiang Xiangning , Gai Ying
Published: February 2021

Hydroxycinnamoyl-CoA: shikimate hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (HCT) divides the mass flux to H, G and S units in monolignol biosynthesis and affects lignin content. Ten HCT homologs were identified in the Populus trichocarpa (Torr. & Gray) genome. Both genome duplication and tandem duplication resulted in the expansion of HCT orthologs in Populus. Comprehensive analysis including motif analysis, phylogenetic analysis, expression profiles and co-expression analysis revealed the divergence and putative function of these candidate PoptrHCTs. PoptrHCT1 and 2 were identified as likely involved in lignin biosynthesis. PoptrHCT9 and 10- are likely to be involved in plant development and the response to cold stress. Similar functional divergence was also identified in Populus tomentosa Carr. Enzymatic assay of PtoHCT1 showed that PtoHCT1 was able to synthesize caffeoyl shikimate using caffeoyl-CoA and shikimic acid as substrates.
Genetic structure and historical and contemporary gene flow ofAstyanaxmexicanusin the Gulf of Mexico slope: a microsatellite-based analysis
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez Rodolfo , Esquivel-Bobadilla Sarai , Orozco-Ruíz Adonaji Madeleine , Olivas-Hernández José Luis , García-De León Francisco Javier
Published: February 2021

Background

Astyanax mexicanusfrom the river basins of the Gulf of Mexico slope are small freshwater fish that usually live in large groups in different freshwater environments. The group is considered successful due to its high capacity for dispersal and adaptation to different habitats, and the species present high morphological variability throughout their distribution in Mexico. This has produced the most extreme morphotype of the group; the hypogeous or troglobite, which has no eyes or coloration, and is probably the cause of taxonomic uncertainty in the recognition of species across the entire range. Most studies ofA. mexicanushave mainly focused on cave individuals, as well as their adjacent surface locations, providing an incomplete evolutionary history, particularly in terms of factors related to dispersal and the potential corridors used, barriers to gene flow, and distribution of genetic variability. The aim of the present study is to determine the population structure and the degree and direction of genetic flow in this complex taxonomic group, incorporating geographic locations not previously included in analyses using microsatellite loci. Our aim is to contribute to the knowledge of the intricate evolutionary history ofA. mexicanusthroughout most of its range.

Methods

The present study included a set of several cave and surface locations ofA. mexicanus, which have been widely sampled along the Gulf of Mexico slope, in a genetic population analysis using 10 microsatellite loci.

Results

Ten genetic populations or lineages were identified. In these populations, gene flow was recorded at two time periods. Historical gene flow, both inter and intra-basin, was observed among surface populations, from surface to cave populations, and among cave populations, whereas recording of contemporary gene flow was limited to intra-basin exchanges and observed among surface populations, surface to cave populations, and cave populations.
Comparison of microleakage between different restorative materials to restore marginal gap at crown margin
Authors: Haralur Satheesh B. , AL Ghaseb Ghaseb Ahmed , Alqahtani Norah Ali , Alqahtani Bader
Published: February 2021

Background

An occurrence of secondary caries around the indirect restoration margin is reported to remain a leading cause of failures.

Objective

This study aimed to test the interfacial microleakage of conventional glass-ionomer (CGI), resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) and Nano-hybrid composite (CR) restorations at a full veneer margin crown.

Methods

Ninety human extracted molar teeth were divided into three groups (n= 30). Each group was subdivided into three subgroups (n= 10) according to the extent of the structural defects; The structural defect in G1 had a depth of 1.5 mm, width and length at 2 mm and 1 mm intrusion within the crown cervical margin. The corresponding structural defect dimension values for G2 were 2, 5, 4 and 2 mm with defects extending onto the root structure. Meanwhile, G3: structural deficiency of 2 mm depth, 3 mm width and 3 mm length and with 1.5 mm extension into the prepared teeth. These structural defects in each subgroup were restored with CGI, RMGI and CR. Artificial carious lesion formation was induced at the cervical finish line with a demineralizing solution. The artificial carious lesions were restored as per the group distribution. Subsequently, teeth samples were prepared and cemented with Nickel-chromium full coverage restorations utilizing glass-ionomer luting cement. Teeth samples were thermocycled, isolated with nail varnish, and immersed in 0.1% methylene blue for 24 h. The teeth samples were sectioned longitudinally, dye penetration was evaluated with a stereomicroscope. The data were analyzed with Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–WhitneyUtests.

Results

CGI-G1 recorded the highest micro-leakage score at 1.450; while CR-G3 recorded the least score (0.350). At a cementum-restoration interface, CR-G1 (0.850) documented the lowest micro-leakage; RMGI-G3 had a greater value at 1.700.

Conclusions

The hybrid CR could be effectively used to restore the restoration of a marginal gap around crown margins.
Societal Cost of Opioid Use in Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis Patients in the United States
Authors: Huizinga Jamie L. , Stanley Elizabeth E. , Sullivan James K. , Song Shuang , Hunter David J. , Paltiel A. David , Neogi Tuhina , Edwards Robert R. , Katz Jeffrey N. , Losina Elena
Published: February 2021

Objective

Symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (SKOA) is a chronic, disabling condition, requiring long‐term pain management; over 800,000 SKOA patients in the US use opioids on a prolonged basis. We aimed to characterize the societal economic burden of opioid use in this population.

Methods

We used the Osteoarthritis Policy Model, a validated computer simulation of SKOA, to estimate the opioid‐related lifetime and annual cost generated by the US SKOA population. We included direct medical, lost productivity, criminal justice, and diversion costs. We modeled the SKOA cohort with a mean ± SD age of 54 ± 14 years and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index pain score of 29 ± 17 (0–100, 100 = worst). We estimated annual costs of strong ($1,381) and weak ($671) opioid regimens using Medicare fee schedules, Red Book, the Federal Supply Schedule, and published literature. The annual lost productivity and criminal justice costs of opioid use disorder (OUD), obtained from published literature, were $11,387 and $4,264, per‐person, respectively. The 2015–2016 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey provided OUD prevalence. We conducted sensitivity analyses to examine the robustness of our estimates to uncertainty in input parameters.

Results

Assuming 5.1% prevalence of prolonged strong opioid use, the total lifetime opioid‐related cost generated by the US SKOA population was estimated at $14.0 billion, of which only $7.45 billion (53%) were direct medical costs.

Conclusion

Lost productivity, diversion, and criminal justice costs comprise approximately half of opioid‐related costs generated by the US SKOA population. Reducing prolonged opioid use may lead to a meaningful reduction in societal costs that can be used for other public health causes.
Fibrous Hydrogels under Multi‐Axial Deformation: Persistence Length as the Main Determinant of Compression Softening
Authors: de Almeida Paula , Janmey Paul A. , Kouwer Paul H. J.
Published: February 2021

When hydrogels are designed for biological applications, the mechanical properties are carefully chosen to match their precise application. However, traditional methodologies of mechanical characterization (simple shear or compression/extension) commonly ignore the multiaxiality of in vivo deformations. A recent study highlights that biopolymers and tissue indeed show a complex response to combined uniaxial and shear strains. In this study a synthetic yet biomimetic fibrous hydrogel is used, which is based on polyisocyanides and forms a self‐assembled network of branched semiflexible chains, similar in architecture networks of structural biopolymers like actin, collagen, and fibrin. Its synthetic nature allows to decouple key parameters of these networks and individually understand their impact on the mechanical response under multiaxial deformation. Experimentally, it is found that the persistence length is a key parameter of biological networks, which tunes softening of gels under compression: The stiffer the polymer, the more the network softens in compression. This study provides insights into tissue behavior that likely is only obtainable from synthetic model systems and is able to direct further the design of new synthetic biomimetic soft materials that are in high demand as tunable bio‐free extracellular matrix materials.
Emerging Porous Solid Electrolytes for Hydroxide Ion Transport
Authors: Kang Dong Won , Kang Minjung , Yun Hongryeol , Park Hyein , Hong Chang Seop
Published: February 2021

Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) offer several advantages over proton exchange membrane fuel cells, such as the use of a non‐precious metal catalyst, but these cells suffer from various issues related to OH–‐conducting electrolytes, including low conductivity and the formation of K2CO3 salt. These issues need to be resolved for the widespread use of AEMFCs. Recently, many studies have focused on developing excellent ion‐conductive electrolytes using porous materials based on metal–organic and covalent organic frameworks. However, most of this research is biased toward proton‐conducting electrolytes; to the best of the authors’ knowledge, reviews addressing OH–‐conducting electrolytes using porous materials have not been reported thus far. This review discusses OH–‐conducting porous crystalline materials and their membranes in terms of different synthetic strategies, conduction mechanisms, and experimental modalities for the design and development of future anion conductive electrolytes in fuel cells.
0D, 1D, and 2D Supramolecular Nanoassemblies of a Porphyrin: Controllable Assembly, and Dimensionality‐Dependent Catalytic Performances
Authors: Li Peng , Xu Guojing , Wang Nannan , Guan Bo , Zhu Shuiqing , Chen Penglei , Liu Minghua
Published: February 2021

While tremendous advances have been made in dimensionality‐dependent performances of inorganic‐based low‐dimensional nanostructures, paradigms concerning π‐conjugated molecule‐based supramolecular nanoassemblies are relatively fewer despite their various intrinsic advantages. It is herein reported that 0D, 1D, and 2D supramolecular nanostructures of a porphyrin, 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(4‐aminophenyl)‐21H,23H‐porphine, with a spherical, fibrous and sheetlike architecture, respectively, could be fabricated via a reprecipitation protocol. As a typical example to demonstrate their dimensionality‐dependent optoelectronic performances, it is shown that the nanomaterials could serve as photocatalysts for water remediation, where the catalytic reactivity exhibits a trend of nanofibers>nanospheres>nanosheets. The superior catalytic reactivity of the nanofibers stems from the formation of relatively well‐defined J‐aggregates with orderly and tightly organized chromophores, conferring them with strong photoinduced electron–hole transport and separation capability. The higher catalytic reactivity of the nanospheres than nanosheets results from their larger specific surface area, which facilitates efficient accessibility of photogenerated charge carriers, although the porphyrins therein form unspecific J‐aggregates with disorderly and loosely stacked chromophores. The investigation likely initiates a simple method for π‐conjugated molecule‐based 0D, 1D and 2D nanoassemblies by using the same tectons, based on which the highlighted underlying scientific insights might provide useful clues for rational design of organic‐based low‐dimensional advanced soft materials.
Polymerization‐Mediated Multifunctionalization of Living Cells for Enhanced Cell‐Based Therapy
Authors: Pan Chao , Li Juanjuan , Hou Weiliang , Lin Sisi , Wang Lu , Pang Yan , Wang Yufeng , Liu Jinyao
Published: February 2021

Surface decoration of living cells by exogenous substances offers a unique tool for understanding and tuning cell behaviors, which plays a critical role in cell‐based therapy. Here, a facile yet versatile approach for decorating individual living cells with multimodal coatings is reported. By simply co‐depositing with dopamine under a cytocompatible condition, various functional small molecules and polymers can be encoded to form a multifunctional coating on a cell's surface. The accessibility and versatility of this method to decorate diverse cells, including bacteria, fungi, and mammalian cells is demonstrated. With the ability to tune surface functions, ligand co‐deposited gut microbiota is prepared as oral therapeutics for targeted treatment of colitis. Given the dual cytoprotective and targeting effects of the coating, decorated cells show more than 30‐times higher bioavailability in the gut and fourfold higher accumulation in the inflamed tissue in comparison with those of uncoated bacteria. Multimodal therapeutic cells further validate strikingly increased treatment efficacy over clinical aminosalicylic acid in colitis mice. Decorating with multifunctional coatings proposes a robust platform for developing multimodal cells for enhanced cell‐based therapy.
Desorption Electrospray Ionization (DESI) of Digital Polymers: Direct Tandem Mass Spectrometry Decoding and Imaging from Materials Surfaces
Authors: Amalian Jean‐Arthur , Mondal Tathagata , Konishcheva Evgeniia , Cavallo Gianni , Petit Benoît Eric , Lutz Jean‐François , Charles Laurence
Published: February 2021

Sequence‐defined synthetic polymers have recently emerged as an attractive medium to store information at the molecular level, where comonomers of the chains are defined as letters of an alphabet. The main read‐out methodology employed to retrieve such molecularly encoded information is tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), but a major current limitation remains the low storage capacity of readable chains. Ordering short oligomers at discrete locations onto surfaces to compose long messages is an attractive alternative to the difficult synthesis of long coded polymers. Yet, such surface storage requires a reliable sampling technique to be coupled on‐line with MS/MS. Because it combines fast surface extraction with efficient analyte ionization in ambient conditions, desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) is shown here to be perfectly suited to envisage bidimensional data storage. The present study demonstrates performances of DESI‐MS/MS at mapping oligomers used to write letters of a word, extracting digital labels from materials tagged for anticounterfeiting purposes, and imaging text written with coded polymeric inks.
A Palladium(0)‐Catalyzed C4 Site‐Selective C−H Difluoroalkylation of Isoquinolin‐1(2H)‐Ones
Authors: Zhu You‐Quan , Hui Li‐Wen , Zhang Shi‐Bo
Published: February 2021

Herein, we report a Palladium(0)‐catalyzed C4 site‐selective C−H difluoroalkylation of isoquinolin‐1(2H)‐ones through a radical pathway. The present reaction enables the preparation of 2,2‐difluoro‐2‐(1‐oxo‐1,2‐dihydroisoquinolin‐4‐yl)acetates/acetamides through the direct cross‐coupling reaction of readily available isoquinolin‐1(2H)‐ones with 2‐bromo‐2,2‐difluoroacetates or 2‐bromo‐2,2‐difluoroacetamides. Therefore, this method provides an efficient and convenient approach to install a difluoroacetate or a difluoroacetamide moiety into bioactive molecules. Bioassay results showed that introduction of these difluorinated groups at C4 position was beneficial to improve their antiviral activity and compound 5 ab was found to exhibit similar antiviral activity with commercial Ningnanmycin.

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Recent Advances in Photoredox‐Mediated Radical Conjugate Addition Reactions: An Expanding Toolkit for the Giese Reaction
Authors: Gant Kanegusuku Anastasia L. , Roizen Jennifer L.
Published: February 2021

Photomediated Giese reactions are at the forefront of radical chemistry, much like the classical tin‐mediated Giese reactions were nearly forty years ago. With the global recognition of organometallic photocatalysts for the mild and tunable generation of carbon‐centered radicals, chemists have developed a torrent of strategies to form previously inaccessible radical intermediates that are capable of engaging in intermolecular conjugate addition reactions. This Review summarizes advances in photoredox‐mediated Giese reactions since 2013, with a focus on the breadth of methods that provide access to crucial carbon‐centered radical intermediates that can engage in radical conjugate addition processes.
Selective Implantation of Diamines for Cooperative Catalysis in Isoreticular Heterometallic Titanium–Organic Frameworks
Authors: López‐Maya Elena , Padial Natalia M. , Castells‐Gil Javier , Ganivet Carolina R. , Rubio‐Gaspar Ana , Cirujano Francisco G. , Almora‐Barrios Neyvis , Tatay Sergio , Navalón Sergio , Martí‐Gastaldo Carlos
Published: February 2021

We introduce the first example of isoreticular titanium–organic frameworks, MUV‐10 and MUV‐12, to show how the different affinity of hard Ti(IV) and soft Ca(II) metal sites can be used to direct selective grafting of amines. This enables the combination of Lewis acid titanium centers and available ‐NH2 sites in two sizeable pores for cooperative cycloaddition of CO2 to epoxides at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The selective grafting of molecules to heterometallic clusters adds up to the pool of methodologies available for controlling the positioning and distribution of chemical functions in precise positions of the framework required for definitive control of pore chemistry.
Soybean Oil and Nonthermal Plasma Pretreatment to Dye Para‐Aramid Woven Fabrics with Disperse Dye Using a Glycerol‐Based Dye Bath
Authors: Morris Mary , Ye Xiaofei P. , Doona Christopher J.
Published: February 2021

High‐performance para‐aramid fibers offer a number of uses as strong, lightweight materials for protective vests, helmets, tires, and other applications. The chemically inert nature of the fibers makes them difficult to dye or durably print by conventional dyeing techniques for textiles, and solution dyeing during production of the fibers can limit the color of para‐aramid fabrics to the color of the spun yarn prior to weaving or knitting and thereby limit the practical applications of these textiles as protective outerwear. This study presents a new method developed to improve the dyeing of woven para‐aramid fabrics with a disperse dye. Specifically, sequential experimentation proves the beneficial effects of first soaking para‐aramid fabrics in soybean oil followed by surface treatment with atmospheric nonthermal plasma and using glycerol as the dispersant and sodium chloride as an electrolyte without the addition of other auxiliary chemicals. Under the optimized treatment conditions of this study, the color strength (K/S value) of dyed para‐aramid fabrics increased to 3.89 from 0.35 of the untreated samples as determined from spectral analysis of the sample reflectance in the visible range. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed that the high content of unsaturated fatty acids in soybean oil and their interaction with reactive species in the ambient nonthermal plasma were the primary factors for improving the color strength of the dyed para‐aramid fabrics.
Racial disparities in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hoehn Richard S.
Published: February 2021

Racial inequities exist in the presentation, management, and survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Biologic factors may play a role, but complex social issues are likely to blame for these and other cancer disparities.
Trends and racial disparities in aggressive end‐of‐life care for a national sample of women with ovarian cancer
Authors: Mullins Megan A. , Ruterbusch Julie J. , Clarke Philippa , Uppal Shitanshu , Wallner Lauren P. , Cote Michele L.
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

The clinical landscape has moved toward less aggressive end‐of‐life care for women with ovarian cancer. However, whether there has been a decline in the use of aggressive end‐of‐life services is unknown. The authors evaluated current national trends and racial disparities in end‐of‐life care among women with ovarian cancer using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results‐Medicare–linked data set.

METHODS

In total, 7756 Medicare beneficiaries aged >66 years with ovarian cancer who died between 2007 and 2016 were identified. The authors examined trends and racial disparities in late hospice or no hospice use, >1 emergency department (ED) visit, intensive care unit admission, >1 hospitalization, terminal hospitalization, chemotherapy, and invasive and/or life‐extending procedures using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

The median hospice length of stay did not change over time; however, women were increasingly admitted to the intensive care unit and had multiple ED visits in the last month of life (P < .001). Not enrolling in hospice at the end of life and terminal hospitalizations decreased over time (P < .001). Non‐White women were more likely to receive aggressive end‐of‐life care, particularly for hospital‐related utilization and life‐extending procedures, whereas non‐Hispanic Black women were more likely to have >1 ED visit (odds ratio, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.57‐2.64) or life‐extending procedures (odds ratio, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.45‐2.48) compared with non‐Hispanic White women.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite clinical guidelines and increasing emphasis on reducing aggressive end‐of‐life care, the use of aggressive end‐of‐life care for women with ovarian cancer persists, and care is most aggressive for non‐White women.
Lymphoreticular malignancies in serous effusions: Cytomorphologic, flow cytometric and immunocytochemical analysis
Authors: Gupta Parikshaa , Pandey Tushar , Gautam Upasana , Rajwanshi Arvind , Srinivasan Radhika , Gupta Nalini , Rohilla Manish , Varma Neelam , Dey Pranab
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Involvement of body fluids by lymphoreticular malignancies (LRM) is rare and often associated with poor prognosis and decreased overall survival. The present study was conducted to analyze the characteristic cytomorphologic, flow cytometric and immunocytochemical features of LRMs in serous effusions.

Materials and methods

This was a three‐year retrospective study. A total of 218 effusion samples, reported as involved by lymphoreticular malignancies, on cytology, were reviewed. All the cases wherein the cytological diagnosis was confirmed by flow cytometric (FCM) and/or immunocytochemical (ICC) studies were retrieved and studied in detail. FCM and/or ICC were performed in a total of 51/218(23.4%) samples, including 30 pleural (58.8%), 18 peritoneal (35.3%), and 3 pericardial fluid (5.9%) samples.

Results

The cytomorphologic diagnoses included infiltration by non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL;n = 27), infiltration by LRM (n = 19), infiltration by chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL;n = 2), Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL;n = 1) and suggestive of infiltration by LRM (n = 2). FCM and/or ICC confirmed the diagnoses as infiltration by T‐cell lymphoblastic lymphoma in 18; mature B‐cell NHL in 10; Burkitt lymphoma in 7; diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma in 4; follicular lymphoma, T‐ cell NHL and CLL in 2 samples each and hairy cell leukemia, plasmablastic lymphoma and HL in 1 sample each. 94.1% concordance was noted between the initial and final cytologic diagnosis.

Conclusions

Involvement of body fluids and effusions by LRMs, though rare, carries an immense prognostic significance and hence the prompt detection is crucial. Detection of these malignancies by cytologic examination of effusions is challenging yet potentially useful and the least invasive method available to establish an early diagnosis.