bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial pattern and temporal trend of land degradation in the Heihe River Basin of China using local net primary production scaling
Authors: Li Feng , Meng Jijun , Zhu Likai , You Nanshan
Published: November 2019

Biophysical processes and people's livelihoods largely depend on ecosystem productivity; thus, land degradation is harmful for local sustainable development. Most previous assessments of land degradation used a comprehensive index system or trend analysis without localized benchmarks; thus, they were not fully objective. Here, we assessed the land degradation in the Heihe River Basin (HRB), China using the local net primary production (NPP) scaling (LNS) method. We improved the method by dividing land capability classes (LCC) using remote sensing data, and determining the reference NPP for each LCC to represent the productivity under optimal environmental conditions. To assess the extent, severity and trend of land degradation, we obtained LNS percent values which was defined as the ratio of present NPP to reference NPP. We categorized our identified land degradation hotspots, determined their causes and proposed potential strategies for land conservation. Our results showed that nearly one quarter of the area was degraded land, mainly located in the upper stream. The average NPP was 35.75% lower than the reference NPP, with a reduction amount of 0.82 GgC yr−1. Only the lower stream showed a significant decreasing trend in LNS percent values. The areas with a positive trend in LNS percent values were primarily observed in the middle stream croplands. We found the degradation condition deteriorated first and recovered later in the HRB. Land use change contributed more than climate change to the local NPP of the degraded areas. Our research provides a more general framework for assessing land productivity reduction induced by anthropogenic and natural processes in the drylands.
Topological Edge States and Gap Solitons in the Nonlinear Dirac Model
Authors: Smirnova Daria A. , Smirnov Lev A. , Leykam Daniel , Kivshar Yuri S.
Published: November 2019

Topological photonics has emerged recently as a novel approach for realizing robust optical circuitry, and the study of nonlinear effects in topological photonics is expected to open the door for tunability of photonic structures with topological properties. Here, the topological edge states and topological gap solitons which reside in the same band gaps described by the nonlinear Dirac model are studied, in both one and two dimensions. Strong nonlinear interactions between these dissimilar topological modes, manifested in the efficient excitation of topological edge states by scattered traveling gap solitons are revealed. Nonlinear tunability of localized states is explicated with exact analytical solutions for the two‐component spinor wave function. Our studies are complemented by spatiotemporal numerical modeling of the nonlinear scattering in 1D and 2D photonic lattices.
Local well‐posedness of the Hall‐MHD system in Hs(Rn) with s>n2
Authors: Dai Mimi
Published: November 2019

We establish local well‐posedness of the Hall‐magneto‐hydrodynamics (Hall‐MHD) system in the Sobolev space with , . The previously known local well‐posedness Sobolev space was with . Thus the result presented here is an improvement. Moreover, we show that the solution of the Hall‐MHD system in the space with converges to a solution of the MHD system when the Hall effect coefficient goes to zero.
Antecedents, consequences, and reducers of perceived risk in social media: A systematic literature review and directions for further research
Authors: Rehman Zia Ur , Baharun Rohaizat , Salleh Nor Zafir Md
Published: November 2019

The social media has become an integral part of the marketing strategy. Marketing activities are now more inclined to online social networks (OSNs) than ever before in the history of the business. More and more consumers are joining OSNs for the sake of fun, socialization, and online buying. Every user perceives some degree of risk while joining and using OSNs. The current systematic literature review gathers and synthesizes research records of the last 9 years (2010–18) on consumer perceived risks concerning OSNs. We used PRISMA as a protocol to conduct this systematic literature review. The synthesis provides a detailed account of the perceived risk factors, their antecedents and consequences, risk‐reducing strategies, and future research potential in the said domain.
Inverse‐QSPR for de novo Design: A Review
Authors: Gantzer Philippe , Creton Benoit , Nieto‐Draghi Carlos
Published: November 2019

The use of computer tools to solve chemistry‐related problems has given rise to a large and increasing number of publications these last decades. This new field of science is now well recognized and labelled Chemoinformatics. Among all chemoinformatics techniques, the use of statistical based approaches for property predictions has been the subject of numerous research reflecting both new developments and many cases of applications. The so obtained predictive models relating a property to molecular features – descriptors – are gathered under the acronym QSPR, for Quantitative Structure Property Relationships. Apart from the obvious use of such models to predict property values for new compounds, their use to virtually synthesize new molecules – de novo design – is currently a high‐interest subject. Inverse‐QSPR (i‐QSPR) methods have hence been developed to accelerate the discovery of new materials that meet a set of specifications. In the proposed manuscript, we review existing i‐QSPR methodologies published in the open literature in a way to highlight developments, applications, improvements and limitations of each.
Nickel nanoparticles‐based saturable absorber: Toward compact multiwavelength Yb‐doped fiber pulsed lasers near 1 μm region
Authors: Salman Ansam M. , Al‐Janabi Abdulhadi
Published: November 2019

We experimentally demonstrate a compact pulsed dual‐wavelength Ytterbium‐doped fiber laser (YDF) based on Nickel nanoparticles (Ni‐NPs) as a Q‐switcher and optical stabilizer. By integrating the Ni‐NPs saturable absorber (SA) in the cavity, and adjust the 975 nm diode pump power to 185 mW, a self‐starting passively Q‐switched was generated at a central wavelength of 1038.5 nm. By exploiting the extra high nonlinearity of Ni‐NPs, the homogenous gain broadening of the YDF oscillator can be suppressed. Consequently, at a pump power of 195 mW, a stable dual‐wavelength passively Q‐switching laser has been generated at room temperature without any intracavity spectral filters or modulation elements. As increases the pump power up to the maximum value of 288 mW, the Ytterbium‐doped fiber laser observed that the smallest pulse width, the maximum repetition rate, and the maximum pulse energy of 1.44 μs, 100.1 kHz, and 4.45 nJ, respectively. The Ni‐NPs SA proof its potential in generating multiwavelength pulsed laser in the 1 μm region for different photonic applications.
Analysis and design of single and dual element bowtie microstrip antenna embedded with planar long wire for 5G wireless applications
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Mainuddin  , Kanaujia Binod K. , Khandelwal Mukesh K.
Published: November 2019

In this article, a low‐profile bowtie shaped planar antenna loaded with long wire is designed, analyzed, and fabricated, which is fed by microstrip line and presented with and without metallic reflector. It consists of a planar long‐wire antenna, which is designed at 27 GHz and terminated with the input impedance of a planar bowtie shaped element supported by defected ground structure. This terminating element works as a load resistance for long wire. Furthermore, two‐element antenna arrays with proposed bowtie structure is designed, analyzed, and presented. Design equations of proposed structure are presented along with the various aspects including return loss, gain, and radiation characteristics. Proposed antenna is working within the frequency band ranging from 27 to 29 GHz and may be used for 5G wireless applications as it offers high gain within the operating frequency. Simulated results are validated by measured results of fabricated prototypes.
Analysis of interferon‐γ receptor IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 expression and regulation at the maternal‐conceptus interface and the role of interferon‐γ on endometrial expression of interferon signaling molecules during early pregnancy in pigs
Authors: Yoo Inkyu , Seo Heewon , Choi Yohan , Jang Hwanhee , Han Jisoo , Lee Soohyung , Choi Youngsok , Ka Hakhyun
Published: November 2019

It has long been known that pig conceptuses produce interferon‐γ (IFNG) at the time of implantation, but the role of IFNG and its mechanism of action at the maternal‐conceptus interface are not fully understood. Accordingly, we analyzed the expression and regulation of IFNG receptors IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 in the endometrium during the estrous cycle and pregnancy in pigs. Levels of IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression changed in the endometrium, with the highest levels during mid pregnancy for IFNGR1 and on Day 12 of pregnancy for IFNGR2. The expression of IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 mRNAs was also detected in conceptuses during early pregnancy and chorioallantoic tissues during mid to late pregnancy. IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 mRNAs were localized to endometrial epithelial and stromal cells and to the chorionic membrane during pregnancy. IFNGR2 protein was also localized to endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, and increased epithelial expression of IFNGR2 mRNA and protein was detectable during early pregnancy than the estrous cycle. Explant culture studies showed that estrogen increased levels of IFNGR2, but not IFNGR1, mRNAs, while interleukin‐1β did not affect levels of IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 mRNAs. Furthermore, IFNG increased levels of IRF1, IRF2, STAT1, and STAT2 mRNAs in the endometrial explants. These results in pigs indicate that IFNGR1 and IFNGR2 are expressed in a stage of pregnancy‐ and cell‐type specific manner in the endometrium and that sequential cooperative action of conceptus signals estrogen and IFNG may be critical for endometrial responsiveness to IFNs for the establishment of pregnancy in pigs.
Controlling the discrete‐time conic‐type nonlinear system by a time‐delayed robust controller
Authors: Dong Xuefei , He Shuping
Published: November 2019

This paper investigates the robust H∞ controller design problem for a class of discrete‐time conic‐type nonlinear systems with time delays and uncertainties. We aim to design a time‐delayed feedback control law such that the closed‐loop conic‐type nonlinear system is asymptotically stable and satisfies the given H∞ performance index from the controlled output to the external disturbance. By selecting a proper Lyapunov function, sufficient conditions related to the H∞ stabilization are formulated in the form of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, a simulation example is employed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Can avian functional traits predict cultural ecosystem services?
Authors: Echeverri Alejandra , Karp Daniel S. , Naidoo Robin , Tobias Joseph A. , Zhao Jiaying , Chan Kai M. A.
Published: November 2019

The functional trait diversity of species assemblages can predict the provision of ecosystem services such as pollination and carbon sequestration, but it is unclear whether the same trait‐based framework can be applied to identify the factors that underpin cultural ecosystem services and disservices.

To explore the relationship between traits and the contribution of species to cultural ecosystem services and disservices, we conducted 404 questionnaire surveys with birdwatchers and local residents in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

We used an information–theoretic approach to identify which of 20 functional traits for 199 Costa Rican bird species best predicted their cultural ecosystem service scores related to birdwatching, acoustic aesthetics, education and local identity, as well as disservices (e.g. harm to crops).

We found that diet was the most important variable explaining perceptions of cultural ecosystem service and disservice providers. Aesthetic traits such as plumage colour and pattern were important in explaining birdwatching scores. We also found people have a high affinity for forest‐affiliated birds.

The insight that functional traits can explain variation among cultural perspectives on values derived from birds offers a first step towards a trait‐based system for understanding the species attributes that underpin cultural ecosystem services and disservices.
Synthesis and Hierarchical Self‐Assembly of Diphenylalanine‐Based Homopolymer and Copolymers By RAFT Polymerization
Authors: Yonenuma Ryo , Ishizuki Ai , Nakabayashi Kazuhiro , Mori Hideharu
Published: November 2019

Dipeptide diphenylalanine has attracted significant research interests because of its ability to self‐assemble into various nanostructures such as nanotubes, nanowires, and nanoribbons. In this article, we present the synthesis and self‐assembly of a novel diphenylalanine‐based homopolymer and block/random copolymers by the reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization of an acrylamide having a dipeptide moiety. The RAFT polymerization of N‐acryloyl‐l,l‐diphenylalanine (A‐Phe‐Phe‐OH) afforded novel amino acid‐based polymers with predetermined molecular weights and relatively narrow‐molecular weight distributions. The hierarchical self‐assembled structures of poly(A‐Phe‐Phe‐OH), which involve nanorods, larger nanofiber‐like microcrystals, and fiber bundles, were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering measurements. The circular dichroic measurements of poly(A‐Phe‐Phe‐OH) revealed its characteristic chiroptical property, which is affected by the nature of the solvents and the addition of urea and salts via hydrophobic, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interactions. Thermo‐ and pH‐responsive block and random copolymers composed of A‐Phe‐Phe‐OH and N‐isopropylacrylamide were synthesized by RAFT polymerization, and the thermoresponsive properties and assembled structures of the resulting copolymers were investigated by AFM and turbidity measurements. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2562–2574
SiCN:H thin films deposited by MW‐PECVD with liquid organosilicon precursor: Gas ratio influence versus properties of the deposits
Authors: Plujat Béatrice , Glénat Hervé , Bousquet Angélique , Frézet Lawrence , Hamon Jonathan , Goullet Antoine , Tomasella Éric , Hernandez Emmanuel , Quoizola Sébastien , Thomas Laurent
Published: November 2019

Silicon carbonitride SiCN:H thin films are deposited with microwave plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition. Argon, ammonia, and tetramethylsilane (TMS) (Ar/NH3/Si(CH3)4) are used for the gas mixture. Plasma gas phase chemistry is studied using optical emission spectroscopy according to the TMS/NH3 gas flow ratio, highlighting the presence of three discharge regimes. Then, the deposited SiCN:H thin films are analyzed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, enabling us to correlate plasma and film chemistry. Thus, we define three thin film families corresponding to the three discharge regimes occurring in the plasma phase. Properties of these families are studied: Optical properties by spectroscopic ellipsometry, electrical properties by I–V measurements and electron spin resonance, and mechanical properties by nanoindentation and tribology.
Are changes in upper extremity use during sub‐acute rehabilitation after stroke associated with physical, cognitive, and social activities? An observational cohort pilot study
Authors: Gohlke Jacob , Juul‐Kristensen Birgit , Brunner Iris
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To investigate how changes in physical, social, and cognitive activity levels are associated with the use of the affected upper extremity at different time points during inpatient rehabilitation after stroke.

Methods

In an observational longitudinal cohort pilot study activity of 14 patients with subacute stroke was registered 2–4 times during their inpatient rehabilitation from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. At the same time, patients wore accelerometers on both wrists to register amount of use and use ratio of the affected to the unaffected upper extremity. Before and after the observation period, patients were assessed with action research arm test, Box and Blocks Test, and Functional Independence Measure. Linear regression models were used to examine the influence of different categories of activities and motor function levels on affected upper extremity use.

Results

Increasing physical activity levels during rehabilitation and improvement in upper extremity motor function were associated with increased use of the affected upper extremity. Cognitive and social activity levels did not change and were not associated with affected upper extremity use.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the use of the affected upper extremity and a general increase in activity are associated. Facilitating both general physical activity and specific upper extremity use at a rehabilitation ward may benefit overall recovery.
MarR family proteins are important regulators of clinically relevant antibiotic resistance
Authors: Beggs Grace A. , Brennan Richard G. , Arshad Mehreen
Published: November 2019

There has been a rapid spread of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacteria across the world. MDR efflux transporters are an important mechanism of antibiotic resistance in many pathogens among both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. These pumps can recognize a variety of chemically and structurally different compounds, including innate and clinically administered antibiotics. Intriguingly, these efflux pumps are often regulated by transcription factors that themselves bind a diverse set of substrates thereby allowing them to regulate the expression of their cognate MDR efflux pumps. One significant family of such transcription factors is the Multiple antibiotic resistance Repressor (MarR) family. Members of this family are well conserved across different bacterial species and in some cases are known to regulate vital bacterial functions. This review focusses on the role of MarR family transcriptional factors in antibiotic resistance within a select group of clinically relevant pathogens.
Identification of a PAI‐1‐binding site within an intrinsically disordered region of vitronectin
Authors: Chu Yuzhuo , Bucci Joel C. , Peterson Cynthia B.
Published: November 2019

The serine protease inhibitor, plasminogen activator inhibitor Type‐1 (PAI‐1) is a metastable protein that undergoes an unusual transition to an inactive conformation with a short half‐life of only 1–2 hr. Circulating PAI‐1 is bound to a cofactor vitronectin, which stabilizes PAI‐1 by slowing this latency conversion. A well‐characterized PAI‐1‐binding site on vitronectin is located within the somatomedin B (SMB) domain, corresponding to the first 44 residues of the protein. Another PAI‐1 recognition site has been identified with an engineered form of vitronectin lacking the SMB domain, yet retaining PAI‐1 binding capacity (Schar, Blouse, Minor, Peterson. J Biol Chem. 2008;283:28487–28496). This additional binding site is hypothesized to lie within an intrinsically disordered domain (IDD) of vitronectin. To localize the putative binding site, we constructed a truncated form of vitronectin containing 71 amino acids from the N‐terminus, including the SMB domain and an additional 24 amino acids from the IDD region. This portion of the IDD is rich in acidic amino acids, which are hypothesized to be complementary to several basic residues identified within an extensive vitronectin‐binding site mapped on PAI‐1 (Schar, Jensen, Christensen, Blouse, Andreasen, Peterson. J Biol Chem. 2008;283:10297–10309). Steady‐state and stopped‐flow fluorescence measurements demonstrate that the truncated form of vitronectin exhibits the same rapid biphasic association as full‐length vitronectin and that the IDD hosts the elusive second PAI‐1 binding site that lies external to the SMB domain of vitronectin.
Machine learning prediction of hydrocarbon mixture lower flammability limits using quantitative structure‐property relationship models
Authors: Jiao Zeren , Yuan Shuai , Zhang Zhuoran , Wang Qingsheng
Published: November 2019

Lower flammability limit (LFL) of hydrocarbon mixture is a critical property for fire and explosion hazards. In this study, by using experimental LFL data of hydrocarbon mixture from a single reference, quantitative structure‐property relationship (QSPR) models have been established using four machine learning methods, namely, k‐nearest neighbors, support vector machine, random forest, and boosting tree. The K‐fold cross‐validation method, which has significant advantages over the traditional validation set approach, is implemented for QSPR model evaluation. Prediction errors and accuracy are assessed and compared with traditional multiple linear regression. The results show that models generated by machine learning methods have a significantly lower root mean square error than traditional methods in both training and test data sets. This is the first time that machine learning‐based QSPR models are developed for prediction of hydrocarbon mixture LFL, and the models are proven to be highly predictable and reliable.
3‐O‐Acetyloleanolic acid inhibits angiopoietin‐1‐induced angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis via suppression of angiopoietin‐1/Tie‐2 signaling
Authors: Hwang‐Bo Jeon , Park Jong‐Hwa , Chung In Sik
Published: November 2019

Tumor angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are important processes in tumor progression and metastasis. The inhibitory effects of 3‐O‐acetyloleanolic acid (3AOA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid compound isolated fromVigna sinensisK., on tumor‐induced angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesisin vitroandin vivowere studied. Angiopoietin‐1 is an important angiogenic and lymphangiogenic factor secreted from colon carcinoma CT‐26 cells under hypoxia conditions. 3AOA inhibited proliferation, migration, and tube formation of angiopoietin‐1‐treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and human lymphatic microvascular endothelial cells (HLMEC). 3AOA reduced angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in angiopoietin‐1‐stimulated Matrigel plugs. Also, 3AOA inhibited tumor growth and tumor‐induced angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in an angiopoietin‐1‐induced CT‐26 allograft colon carcinoma animal model. 3AOA inhibited activation of the angiopoietin‐1 receptor Tie‐2 and activation of the downstream signaling factors FAK, AKT, and ERK1/2 that are involved in the angiopoietin‐1/Tie‐2‐signaling pathway. Thus, 3AOA has an inhibitory effect on angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis induced by angiopoietin‐1 bothin vitroandin vivo, and the inhibitory effect of 3AOA is probably due to suppression of angiopoietin‐1/Tie‐2 signaling in HUVEC and HLMEC.
Short communication: Clinical evaluation of pea sprout extract in the treatment of hair loss
Authors: Grothe Torsten , Wandrey Franziska , Schuerch Cornelia
Published: November 2019

Hair loss affects millions of people worldwide, but currently available treatment options are often dissatisfying due to side effects or limited efficacy. Pea sprout extract has been shown to improve hair density when applied topically, but its mode of action and effectiveness upon oral administration remain unknown. Our study has now shown that the application of a fluid containing 2% pea sprout extract on a defined scalp zone of 10 volunteers enhances the expression of defined genes relevant for hair, namely fibroblast growth factor‐7 (FGF7) and noggin, by 56 and 85%, respectively. Additionally, a subsequent pilot nutrition intervention study in 21 volunteers proved that pea sprout extract is also effective when consumed as dietary supplement. The daily intake of 100 mg pea sprout extract (AnaGain™ Nu) for 8 weeks significantly reduced hair loss already after 28 days of treatment (p < 0.002). No adverse events were reported. Consequently, pea sprout extract may be an effective means to safely promote hair growth and reduce hair loss in individuals experiencing excessive hair shedding.
Bank soundness and bank lending to new firms during the global financial crisis
Authors: Naiki Eriko , Ogane Yuta
Published: November 2019

This paper examines how the soundness of financial institutions affected bank lending to new firms during the 2008 financial crisis by using a unique firm–bank match‐level dataset of 1,467 unlisted small and medium‐sized enterprises incorporated in Japan. We employ a within‐firm estimator that can control for unobserved firms’ demand for credit through firm ∗ time fixed effects. The major findings of this paper are the following four points. First, sounder financial institutions may be generally less likely to provide financing to new firms. Second, our results suggest that sounder financial institutions were less likely to provide loans to new firms during the 2008 financial crisis. Third, financial institutions were less likely to provide financing to new firms during such crisis as compared to those with the same soundness during non‐crisis periods. Finally, such lending relationships to new firms that are established during the financial crisis by sounder financial institutions are more likely to be continued than such lending by less sound financial institutions.
Evaluating the regional social sustainability contribution of public‐private partnerships in China: The development of an indicator system
Authors: Yuan Jingfeng , Zhang Lei , Tan Yongtao , Skibniewski Mirosław J.
Published: November 2019

Public–private partnerships (PPPs) have been increasingly adopted in China. Sustainability of PPPs has become a priority for a sustainable development of PPPs. Most prior studies focus on sustainable implementation of PPP projects. Few research efforts have been done to examine the impacts of PPPs to sustainability from an external perspective and a more macro geographical scale. Meanwhile, the social aspect of the sustainability of PPPs has not been widely studied. Therefore, this study aims to propose a social sustainability contribution evaluation system (SSCES) for PPPs to evaluate PPPs' contribution to regional social sustainability at the institutional level. An indicator system of the SSCES for PPPs was developed, which included 8 requirements for socially sustainable development and 33 social sustainability indicators. The weights of indicators were determined by using the analytic hierarchy process method. The results indicate that, in the context of China, promoting people‐oriented urbanization in PPPs can help enhance regional social sustainability. This study provides a useful evaluation tool for various stakeholders to evaluate the sustainability of PPPs from an institutional level, especially for local governments to review current PPP polices and make improvements.
Catalyst‐Free Efficient Synthesis of Alkyl Acetates Bearing Arylsulfide and Quinoxaline Moieties and Stereoselective Synthesis of Dialkyl 2‐Amino‐3‐thiomalates at Room Temperature
Authors: Hashemi Sayyed Abolghasem , Mohammadizadeh Mohammad Reza
Published: November 2019

A novel and efficient procedure was introduced for the synthesis of alkyl acetates bearing arylthio and quinoxaline moieties from the reaction of o‐phenylenediamines, dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylates, and in‐situ generated arylsulphenyl chlorides in DMF as solvent at room temperature. The procedure worked well for a variety of starting materials and the corresponding products were obtained in good yields. Moreover, some derivatives of dialkyl 2‐amino‐3‐thiomalates were stereoselectively synthesized via the reaction of amines, dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylates and in‐situ generated arylsulphenyl chlorides in moderate to good yields in DCE as solvent at room temperature.
N‐Ethyl Carbazole Derived D‐π‐A‐π‐D Based Fluorophores: Consolidated Spectroscopic, Viscosity and DFT Studies
Authors: Raikwar Manish M. , Mohbiya Dhanraj R. , Sekar Nagaiyan
Published: November 2019

This article reports design and synthesis of three new fluorophores (5 a‐c) with the donor‐π‐acceptor‐π‐donor motif, where dicyano vinylene group is the central acceptor, N‐ethyl carbazole group is a fixed donor and varying the N‐substituted secondary donors so as to study their photophysical behavior. Based on the systematic photophysical and theoretical reconnaissances, the fluorophores structure‐property relationships are defined. Their spectral and photophysical behaviors are affected by the solvent polarity, with a significant bathochromic shift in emission and large Stoke shifts being observed in polar solvents. Contrary to dipolar asymmetric analogue this system shows an efficient intramolecular charge transfer as observed from various solvent polarity plots. For 5 a, 5 b, and 5 c, the viscosity induced emission studies show respectively 3.78, 6.53, and 6.82 times enhancement in their fluorescence intensity and hence act as a fluorescent molecular rotor (FMR). The structure and electronic properties of these fluorophores were evaluated using density functional theory computations using B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p). The frontier molecular orbitals and the optimized geometry reveal that secondary donors in each fluorophore donate the electron and not the N‐ethyl carbazole group which is more twisted. The non‐linear and linear optical properties were determined employing solvatochromic and computational methods in solvents of varying polarities with results falling within the expected limiting values. The linear and non‐linear optical properties of the fluorophores change with the strength of different secondary donors used and solvent polarity. The two photon absorption cross‐section described using two level approximation is highest for 5 b (115‐172 GM).
Emerging Pyroelectric Nanogenerators to Convert Thermal Energy into Electrical Energy
Authors: Ryu Hanjun , Kim Sang‐Woo
Published: November 2019

Pyroelectric energy harvesting systems have recently received substantial attention for their potential applications as power generators. In particular, the pyroelectric effect, which converts thermal energy into electrical energy, has been utilized as an infrared (IR) sensor, but upcoming sensor technology that requires a miniscule amount of power is able to utilize pyroelectric nanogenerators (PyNGs) as a power source. Herein, an overview of the progress in the development of PyNGs for an energy harvesting system that uses environmental or artificial energies such as the sun, body heat, and heaters, is provided. It begins with a brief introduction of the pyroelectric effect, and various polymer and ceramic materials based PyNGs are reviewed in detail. Various approaches for developing polymer‐based PyNGs and various ceramic materials–based PyNGs are summarized in particular. Finally, challenges and perspectives regarding the PyNGs are described.
NiMoFe and NiMoFeP as Complementary Electrocatalysts for Efficient Overall Water Splitting and Their Application in PV‐Electrolysis with STH 12.3%
Authors: Baek Minki , Kim Guan‐Woo , Park Taiho , Yong Kijung
Published: November 2019

Complementary water splitting electrocatalysts used simultaneously in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) can simplify water splitting systems. Herein, earth‐abundant NiMoFe (NMF) and phosphorized NiMoFeP (NMFP) are synthesized as complementary overall water splitting (OWS) catalysts. First, NMF is tested as both the HER and OER promoter, which exhibits low overpotentials of 68 (HER) and 337 mV (OER). A quaternary NMFP is then prepared by simple phosphorization of NMF, which shows a much lower OER overpotential of 286 mV. The enhanced OER activity is attributed to the unique surface/core structure of NMFP. The surface phosphate acts as a proton transport mediator and expedites the rate‐determining step. With the application of OER potential, the NMFP surface is composed of Ni(OH)2 and FeOOH, active sites for OER, but the inner core consists of Ni, Mo, and Fe metals, serving as a conductive electron pathway. OWS with NMF‐NMFP requires an applied voltage of 1.452 V to generate 10 mA cm−2, which is one of the lowest values among OWS results with transition‐metal‐based electrocatalysts. Furthermore, the catalysts are combined with tandem perovskite solar cells for photovoltaic (PV)‐electrolysis, producing a high solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency of 12.3%.
Doing Fatherhood Online: Men's Parental Identities, Experiences, and Ideologies on Social Media
Authors: Scheibling Casey
Published: November 2019

Online discourse about parenting has grown with the expansion of social media technologies. With a community of “dad bloggers” developing in North America, further investigation into how men write about fatherhood on the Internet is needed. In this article, I present a qualitative analysis of 201 blog posts written by 40 dad bloggers. Adopting a social psychological perspective, I examine how fatherhood is constructed across lines of identity, experience, and ideology. My findings illustrate how dad bloggers reinforce and reshape family discourses in their writing about parental role models, becoming a father, work–family balance, generativity, and “good” and “bad” dads. Social media use is discussed as a part of fathering in everyday life and as a tool to display, promote, and normalize involved fatherhood.
Love, Stigma, and Resistance: “Therapeutic Microaggressions” in a Prisoners' Wives' Support Group
Authors: Shoshana Avihu
Published: November 2019

This article derives from ethnographies of therapeutic interventions in a support group for prisoners' wives in Israel. The study's main inductive findings reveal that love and the emotion work of prisoners' wives are constructed as the primary site for achieving the clinical objective: modifying the prisoners' wives' spoiled self and encouraging their adoption of a psychological self. The findings reveal a dramatic clash between the therapeutic emotion work of love that the group facilitators proposed and the collectivist emotion work to which the prisoners' wives subscribed. These forms of emotion work are associated with ethnic hierarchies and experiences of stigmatization by the prisoners' wives during the therapeutic sessions. In this context, the article suggests the concept of “therapeutic microaggressions” to describe how interactions in clinical sessions can reinforce inequality.
Regional midterm electricity demand forecasting based on economic, weather, holiday, and events factors
Authors: Liu Yuxi , Zhao Jiakui , Liu Jian , Chen Yuze , Ouyang Hong
Published: November 2019

Midterm electricity demand forecasting plays an important role in energy management, policy‐making, and investment decisions in regulated or deregulated electricity market. In this study, the proposed electricity demand forecasting method is composed of two stages. In the forecasting stage, historical electricity consumption data are utilized, while four diverse prediction models—support vector machine regression, L1/2 sparse regression, back‐propagation neural network regression, and autoregressive integrated moving average time‐series analysis—are introduced according to the clustering results of electricity demand curves against 27 provincial power enterprises within State Grid Corporation of China. In the adjustment stage, a mathematical model is developed under a range of economic variables, climatic conditions, holiday periods, important social events, and other drivers, aiming at correcting prediction results in the first stage and improving prediction precision. Extensive experimental study shows that the proposed method can greatly improve the forecasting accuracy of electricity demand consumption in the next 12 months to some extent. The average mean absolute percentage error for the proposed method is approximately 2.56% in the forecasting over the period 2016. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Impact of biometric measurement error on identification of small‐ and large‐for‐gestational‐age fetuses
Authors: Wright D. , Wright A. , Smith E. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: November 2019

Objectives

First, to obtain measurement‐error models for biometric measurements of fetal abdominal circumference (AC), head circumference (HC) and femur length (FL), and, second, to examine the impact of biometric measurement error on sonographic estimated fetal weight (EFW) and its effect on the prediction of small‐ (SGA) and large‐ (LGA) for‐gestational‐age fetuses with EFW < 10th and > 90th percentile, respectively.

Methods

Measurement error standard deviations for fetal AC, HC and FL were obtained from a previous large study on fetal biometry utilizing a standardized measurement protocol and both qualitative and quantitative quality‐control monitoring. Typical combinations of AC, HC and FL that gave EFW on the 10th and 90th percentiles were determined. A Monte‐Carlo simulation study was carried out to examine the effect of measurement error on the classification of fetuses as having EFW above or below the 10th and 90th percentiles.

Results

Errors were assumed to follow a Gaussian distribution with a mean of 0 mm and SDs, obtained from a previous well‐conducted study, of 6.93 mm for AC, 5.15 mm for HC and 1.38 mm for FL. Assuming errors according to such distributions, when the 10th and 90th percentiles are used to screen for SGA and LGA fetuses, respectively, the detection rates would be 78.0% at false‐positive rates of 4.7%. If the cut‐offs were relaxed to the 30th and 70th percentiles, the detection rates would increase to 98.2%, but at false‐positive rates of 24.2%. Assuming half of the spread in the error distribution, using the 10th and 90th percentiles to screen for SGA and LGA fetuses, respectively, the detection rates would be 86.6% at false‐positive rates of 2.3%. If the cut‐offs were relaxed to the 15th and 85th percentiles, respectively, the detection rates would increase to 97.0% and the false‐positive rates would increase to 6.3%.

Conclusions

Measurement error in fetal biometry causes substantial error in EFW, resulting in misclassification of SGA and LGA fetuses. The extent to which improvement can be achieved through effective quality assurance remains to be seen but, as a first step, it is important for practitioners to understand how biometric measurement error impacts the prediction of SGA and LGA fetuses. © 2019 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Characterizing the settleability of grit particles
Authors: Plana Queralt , Pauléat Aurélien , Gadbois Alain , Lessard Paul , Vanrolleghem Peter A.
Published: November 2019

Grit chambers are installed at the headworks of a water resource recovery facility (WRRF) to reduce the impact of grit particles to the equipment and processes downstream. This settling process should thus be designed and operated in an efficient way. Despite the importance of knowing settling characteristics for design and operation of grit chambers, previous grit definitions have been based only on particle size characteristics, and not on settling velocities. Thus, this study presents an evaluation of the performance of two promising settling velocity characterization methods, ViCAs and elutriation, to characterize wastewater particles in view of the design and the optimization of the efficiency of the grit removal unit.

Practitioner points

Settling characteristics are the governing parameter for grit chamber design. Since grit particles are vastly heterogeneous, it is preferred to measure these characteristics directly rather than to estimate them from particle size (and assumptions of density, form factor, …).

More detailed settling information about grit particles can improve grit chamber design and estimation of removal performance.

Adapted ViCAs and elutriation methods for faster settling particles allow studying the particle settling characteristics in a grit chamber. These methods are simple, fast, and cheap and only require small wastewater samples.

A relationship was found between the influent TSS concentration and the location of the PSVD curve, with higher TSS concentrations corresponding to higher settling velocities.

It was demonstrated that the dynamics of the wastewater characteristics under dry, wet, and snowmelt weather conditions influence grit settling characteristics.
What is the switch for coupling transcription and splicing? RNA Polymerase II C‐terminal domain phosphorylation, phase separation and beyond
Authors: Maita Hiroshi , Nakagawa Shinichi
Published: November 2019

Phosphorylation of the RNA polymerase II C‐terminal domain (Pol II CTD) has important roles in the kinetic coupling of splicing with transcription, which is essential for many genes to maintain correct splicing patterns. However, because of the extensively repeated low complexity sequences of Pol II CTD, it was unclear how phosphorylation‐dependent molecular interactions were able to provide sufficient specificity to spatiotemporally partition various cotranscriptional events. Here we try to view the molecular mechanisms governing cotranscriptional splicing from the role of phase separation based on recent studies showing the ability of Pol II CTD to form droplets.

This article is categorized under:

  RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing

  RNA Processing > Splicing Mechanisms

  RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA–Protein Complexes
Spectral weight in Chern-Simons theory with symmetry breaking
Authors: Martin Victoria L. , Monga Nikhil
Published: November 2019

Abstract

We calculate the low-energy spectral weight of a holographic superfluid coupled to a Chern-Simons term in IR radial scaling geometries characterized by a parameter η. This work was motivated by previous results where an unexpected low-energy spectral weight and a region of instability were seen, both at finite momentum, for the holographic superfluid. We characterize the effect of varying the Chern-Simons coupling α and condensate charge parameter ζ on these regions supporting low-energy spectral weight or a finite momentum instability. We show that η, α and ζ each plays a unique role in shaping these regions. We find a surface α
crit(η, ζ) above which the theory is unstable. In the longitudinal channel we extend our analysis to general dimension d. We briefly analyze the Einstein-Maxwell-dilaton theory and find that Fermi shells exist for d > 4.
Fermentation of plant-based milk alternatives for improved flavour and nutritional value
Authors: Tangyu Muzi , Muller Jeroen , Bolten Christoph J. , Wittmann Christoph
Published: November 2019

Non-dairy milk alternatives (or milk analogues) are water extracts of plants and have become increasingly popular for human nutrition. Over the years, the global market for these products has become a multi-billion dollar business and will reach a value of approximately 26 billion USD within the next 5 years. Moreover, many consumers demand plant-based milk alternatives for sustainability, health-related, lifestyle and dietary reasons, resulting in an abundance of products based on nuts, seeds or beans. Unfortunately, plant-based milk alternatives are often nutritionally unbalanced, and their flavour profiles limit their acceptance. With the goal of producing more valuable and tasty products, fermentation can help to the improve sensory profiles, nutritional properties, texture and microbial safety of plant-based milk alternatives so that the amendment with additional ingredients, often perceived as artificial, can be avoided. To date, plant-based milk fermentation mainly uses mono-cultures of microbes, such as lactic acid bacteria, bacilli and yeasts, for this purpose. More recently, new concepts have proposed mixed-culture fermentations with two or more microbial species. These approaches promise synergistic effects to enhance the fermentation process and improve the quality of the final products. Here, we review the plant-based milk market, including nutritional, sensory and manufacturing aspects. In addition, we provide an overview of the state-of-the-art fermentation of plant materials using mono- and mixed-cultures. Due to the rapid progress in this field, we can expect well-balanced and naturally fermented plant-based milk alternatives in the coming years.
Twenty‐Three‐Hour‐Stay Colectomy Without Increased Readmissions: An Analysis of 1905 Cases from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program
Authors: Saadat Lily V. , Mahvi David A. , Jolissaint Joshua S. , Gabriel Rodney A. , Urman Richard , Gold Jason S. , Whang Edward E.
Published: November 2019

Background

Isolated case series from highly specialized centers suggest the feasibility of a 23‐h hospital stay after colectomy. We sought to determine preoperative variables associated with discharge within 23 h after colectomy to identify patients best suited for a short‐stay model.

Methods

The American College of Surgeons NSQIP Colectomy‐Targeted database was used to identify patients who underwent elective colectomy from 2012 to 2017. All cases with missing length of stay or inpatient death were excluded. Patients with a postoperative hospital stay ≤1 day were identified. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with early discharge.

Results

A total of 1905 patients were discharged within 23 h after surgery (1.6%). These patients were noted to be younger (59 versus 61 years, p < 0.001) and less likely to have insulin‐dependent diabetes (3.0 versus 4.4%, p < 0.001), preoperative dyspnea (2.2 versus 6.0%, p < 0.001), COPD (3.0 versus 4.2%, p = 0.011), and hypertension (40.7 versus 46.9%, p < 0.001) than patients who stayed longer. Shorter operative time (OR 0.986, 95% CI 0.985–0.987, p < 0.001), minimally invasive techniques (OR 2.969, 95% CI 2.686–3.282, p < 0.001), lack of ostomy (OR 0.614, 95% CI 0.478–0.788, p < 0.001), and lack of ureteral stenting (OR 0.641, 95% CI 0.500–0.821, p < 0.001) were associated with early discharge in multivariable analysis. There was no increased incidence of readmission in patients discharged within 23 h.

Conclusions

Twenty‐three‐hour‐stay colectomy is feasible on a national level and does not result in an increased incidence of readmission. Patients undergoing elective procedures without significant medical comorbidities may be eligible for early discharge. Preoperative factors may be used to select patients best suited for this short‐stay model.
Is Local Resection of Anal Canal Tumors Feasible with Transanal Endoscopic Surgery?
Authors: Serra‐Aracil Xavier , Campos‐Serra Andrea , Mora‐López Laura , Serra‐Pla Sheila , Pallisera‐Lloveras Anna , Flores‐Clotet Roser , Zárate‐Pinedo Alba , Navarro‐Soto Salvador
Published: November 2019

Background

An important drawback of local surgery for lesions in the anal canal is the difficulty of achieving en bloc full‐thickness resections. The aim of this study is to evaluate TEM/TEO in lesions of this type from the point of view of morbidity, mortality and the quality of the pathology specimen.

Methods

This is an observational study with prospective data collection from June 2004 to July 2018. Two groups are defined: group A (rectal tumors with proximal margin between 0 and ≤4 cm from anal verge) and group B (distal margin > 4 cm from anal verge). A technical description is provided; resections and postoperative complications in both groups are compared.

Results

During the study period, 757 patients underwent TEM/TEO. Finally, 692 patients were included, 192 patients in group A and 500 patients in group B. An en bloc surgical specimen was obtained in 176/192 patients (91.7%), although the defect was completely sutured in 132 (68.8%). In the comparative analysis, group A did not present significantly greater fragmentation of the resected piece [16/192 (8.3%) vs. 36/500 (7.2%), p = 0.630], although group A was associated with greater involvement of the surgical margin [28/192 (14.6%), 32/500 (6.4%), p = 0.001] and clinically relevant morbidity [16/192 (8.3%), 20/500 (4%), p = 0.034]. There was no mortality.

Conclusions

The use of TEM/TEO to remove lesions originating in the anal canal is feasible. But we have to take into account that there is an increase in complications, technical difficulties and affected margins resection.