bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The design of copper‐coating overpack for the high‐level radioactive waste disposal concept in Japan
Authors: Suzuki Satoru , Ogawa Yusuke , Giallonardo Jason , Keech Peter G.
Published: August 2020

For the geological disposal system in Japan, a vitrified waste will be contained in a metal overpack, which, in turn, will be surrounded by a thick bentonite buffer. The overpack is aiming to prevent the contact of groundwater to vitrified waste during the high radioactivity and heat generation period of the first 1,000 years at least after emplacement. Within the Japanese program, consideration for overpack candidate materials has included carbon steel, copper–steel composite, and titanium–steel composite. Within the extensive safety assessment conducted in 2000, steel was selected. This selection was partly based on the manufacturability of carbon steel, as well as its well‐understood corrosion behavior. However, the understanding of copper corrosion and welding/manufacturing technologies have greatly progressed over the past two decades. In this study, we focus on the copper‐coated container developed by the Nuclear Waste Management Organization, because this technology is seemingly effective to maintain very long‐term containment of hundreds of thousands of years, with a low cost of manufacturing within the Canadian program. We are investigating the applicability of the copper‐coating technologies in terms of the corrosion allowance and mechanical design.
Mapping the Structure–Property Space of Bimodal Polyethylene Using Response Surface Methods. Part 2: Experimental Investigation of Polymer Microstructure and Yield Estimations
Authors: DesLauriers Paul J. , Fodor Jeff S. , Mehdiabadi Saeid , Hegde Venugopal , Soares João B. P.
Published: August 2020

A proof of concept for a quick and easy determination of polymer microstructure and yield estimations made with dual catalyst systems through optimally designed experiments and response surface methodology has been experimentally established. Acceptable accuracy (predicted R2 > 0.9780) has been achieved on all the primary target responses (blend molar masses and short chain branching). These primary responses are further deconvoluted into underlying Flory distributions for resolution into component properties and subsequently modeled and predicted accurately (predicted R2 = 0.7440 to 0.9897) for a given set of polymerization conditions. These models are also used to explore their ability to be used for polymerization kinetics evaluation using uptake curves for yield responses. Reasonable predictive ability for yield estimation is also observed (predicted R2 = 0.9346). This methodology has the makings of a new simplified exploratory pathway for inexpensive kinetic investigation and product prediction for dual metallocene catalyst systems.
Endowment for a rainy day? An empirical analysis of endowment spending by operating public charities
Authors: Qu Heng
Published: August 2020

There has been growing public attention to the accumulation and spending of endowments in recent years. Scholars have offered different theories on the objective of endowments that have different implications for endowment spending. Yet, there are limited empirical studies and they mostly focus on universities. Using the Form 990 data between 2009 and 2016, this study examines how endowments are actually spent for four types of operating charities, including museums, universities, hospitals, and K‐12 schools. The descriptive results show that there are considerable cross‐sectional differences in endowment characteristics across these types of organizations. The fixed effects analyses further demonstrate different types of organizations have different payout responses to changes in endowment returns, non‐endowment income, and contributions to endowment. However, the study does not find any empirical evidence that organizations use endowments as rainy day funds. This article extends the understanding on endowment spending behavior from universities to other types of operating charities that also hold endowments. The findings provide empirical evidence that may inform the existing debate on endowment spending and have practical implications for endowment management.
Solution of the linear and nonlinear advection–diffusion problems on a sphere
Authors: Skiba Yuri N. , Cruz‐Rodríguez Roberto C. , Filatov Denis M.
Published: August 2020

Various linear advection–diffusion problems and nonlinear diffusion problems on a sphere are considered and solved using the direct, implicit and unconditionally stable finite‐volume method of second‐order approximation in space and time. In the absence of external forcing and dissipation, the method preserves the total mass of the substance and the norm of the solution. The component wise operator splitting allows us to develop the direct (noniterative) and fast numerical algorithm. The split problems in the longitudinal direction are solved using the Sherman‐Morrison formula and Thomas algorithm. The direct solution of the split problems in the latitudinal direction requires the use of the bordering method for a block matrix, and the preliminary determination of the solution at the poles. The resulting systems with tridiagonal matrices are solved by the Thomas algorithm. The numerical experiments demonstrate that the method correctly describes the local advection–diffusion processes on the sphere, in particular, through the poles, and accurately simulate blow‐up regimes (unlimited growing solutions) of nonlinear combustion, the propagation of nonlinear temperature and spiral waves, and solutions to Gray‐Scott reaction–diffusion model.
Characterization of barium titanate reinforced acrylonitrile butadiene rubber composites for flexible electronic applications: influences of barium titanate content
Authors: Luangchuang Piyawadee , Chueangchayaphan Narong , Sulaiman Muhammad Azwadi , Chueangchayaphan Wannarat
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study was to develop high dielectric constant flexible polymers with a highly efficient and cost‐effective approach using acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) as the polymer matrix and barium titanate (BT) as the high dielectric constant filler. The BT powder was synthesized with a solid‐state reaction and was characterized using a particle size analyzer, XRD, SEM and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. NBR/BT composites were fabricated using an internal mixer with various BT loadings up to 160 phr. The influence of BT loading on the cure characteristics and mechanical, dynamic mechanical, thermal, dielectric and morphological properties was determined. The incorporation of BT in the NBR matrix shortened scorch time and increased delta torque. The mechanical properties, thermal stability and dielectric constant were greatly improved and increased with BT loading. The results suggest that the reinforcement effect was achieved due to strong hydrogen bonding or polar–polar interactions between NBR matrix and BT filler. This is further corroborated by the good dispersion of BT filler in the NBR matrix observed with SEM imaging. These findings can be applied to produce high‐performance dielectric elastomers. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
The Sperm Proteome of the Oyster Crassostrea hongkongensis
Authors: Mu Huawei , Ke Shengwei , Zhang Duo , Zhang Yanjie , Song Xiaoyuan , Yu Ziniu , Zhang Yang , Qiu Jian‐Wen
Published: August 2020

Sperm proteins play vital roles in fertilization, but little is known about their identities in free‐spawning marine invertebrates. Here, 286 sperm proteins are reported from the Hong Kong oyster Crassostrea hongkongensis using label‐free and semi‐quantitative proteomics. Proteins extracted from three sperm samples are separated by SDS‐PAGE, analyzed by LC‐MS/MS, and identified using Mascot. Functional classification of the sperm proteome reveals energy metabolism (33%), signaling and binding (23%), and protein synthesis and degradation (12%) as the top functional categories. Comparison of orthologous sperm proteins between C. hongkongensis, Crassostrea gigas, Mytilus edulis, and M. galloprovincialis suggests that energy metabolism (48%) is the most conserved functional group. Sequence alignment of the C. hongkongensis bindin, an acrosomal protein that binds the sperm and the egg, with those of three other Crassostrea species, reveals several conserved motifs. The study has enriched the data of invertebrate sperm proteins and may contribute to studies of mechanisms of fertilization in free‐spawning invertebrates. The proteomic data are available in ProteomeXchange with the identifier PXD018255.
De‐tert‐butylation of poly(N‐tert‐butyl‐N‐n‐propylacrylamide): Stereochemical analysis at the triad level
Authors: Hirano Tomohiro , Sugiura Misato , Endo Ryuya , Oshimura Miyuki , Ute Koichi
Published: August 2020

The stereochemical analysis of polymers derived from N,N‐disubstituted acrylamides is usually difficult. The diad tacticity can be determined from the 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signals of the main‐chain methylene groups. However, the splitting because of the configurational sequences is poor, even in 13C NMR, which does not allow determination of the tacticity at the triad level. In contrast, the stereochemical analysis of polymers derived from N‐monosubstituted acrylamides is easily conducted and the triad tacticity can be determined from the 13C signals of the main‐chain methine groups. Thus, stereochemical analysis of N,N‐disubstituted polymers should be able to be conducted if the polymers are transformed into N‐monosubstituted polymers with retention of the configurational sequence. Poly(N‐tert‐butyl‐N‐n‐propylacrylamide) was radically prepared, and de‐tert‐butylation was conducted by treatment with scandium triflate in a mixed solvent of CH3CN and 1,4‐dioxane at 50, 80, and 110°C. 1H NMR analysis of the resulting polymers indicated quantitative conversion after 72 hr, regardless of the temperature. 13C NMR analysis of the transformed polymers confirmed that the configurational sequences were retained during the reaction. Thus, the triad stereochemical analysis of N,N‐disubstituted polymers was successfully conducted by de‐tert‐butylation as a polymer reaction, followed by 13C NMR analysis of the transformed polymers.
Cold atmospheric plasma inactivation of aerosolized microdroplets containing bacteria and purified SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA to contrast airborne indoor transmission
Authors: Bisag Alina , Isabelli Pasquale , Laurita Romolo , Bucci Cristiana , Capelli Filippo , Dirani Giorgio , Gherardi Matteo , Laghi Giulia , Paglianti Alessandro , Sambri Vittorio , Colombo Vittorio
Published: August 2020

One of the major concerns in the COVID‐19 pandemic is related to the possible transmission in poorly ventilated spaces of SARS‐CoV‐2 through aerosol microdroplets, which can remain in the air for long periods of time and be transmitted to others over distances >1 m. Cold atmospheric pressure plasmas can represent a promising solution, thanks to their ability in producing a blend of many reactive species, which can inactivate the airborne aerosolized microorganisms. In this study, a dielectric barrier discharge plasma source is used to directly inactivate suitably produced bioaerosols containing Staphylococcus epidermidis or purified SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA flowing through it. Results show that for low residence times (<0.2 s) in the plasma region a 3.7 log R on bacterial bioaerosol and degradation of viral RNA can be achieved.
Metabolites modulate the functional state of human uridine phosphorylase I
Authors: Huang Yu‐Ting , Yeh Pei‐Chin , Lan Shih‐Chun , Liu Pei‐Fen
Published: August 2020

Metabolic pathways in cancer cells typically become reprogrammed to support unconstrained proliferation. These abnormal metabolic states are often accompanied by accumulation of high concentrations of ATP in the cytosol, a phenomenon known as the Warburg Effect. However, how high concentrations of ATP relate to the functional state of proteins is poorly understood. Here, we comprehensively studied the influence of ATP levels on the functional state of the human enzyme, uridine phosphorylase I (hUP1), which is responsible for activating the chemotherapeutic pro‐drug, 5‐fluorouracil. We found that elevated levels of ATP decrease the stability of hUP1, leading to the loss of its proper folding and function. We further showed that the concentration of hUP1 exerts a critical influence on this ATP‐induced destabilizing effect. In addition, we found that ATP interacts with hUP1 through a partially unfolded state and accelerates the rate of hUP1 unfolding. Interestingly, some structurally similar metabolites showed similar destabilization effects on hUP1. Our findings suggest that metabolites can alter the folding and function of a human protein, hUP1, through protein destabilization. This phenomenon may be relevant in studying the functions of proteins that exist in the specific metabolic environment of a cancer cell.
Structural, elastic, and electronic properties of MgB2C2 under pressure from first‐principles calculations
Authors: Liu Lili , Wang Miao , Hu Lei , Wen Yufeng , Jiang Youchang
Published: August 2020

First‐principles calculations using the projected augmented plane wave method have been performed to investigate the structural, elastic, and electronic properties of MgB2C2 under different pressures. The results indicate that the ternary compound MgB2C2 remains mechanically stable under pressure ranging from 0 to 50 GPa. Elastic analysis is performed, and it is found that MgB2C2 always shows obvious intrinsic brittleness under pressure, although there is an increasing trend of ductility, both from BH/GH and νH, with increasing pressure. (100), (010), and () planes show strong anisotropy, and the degree of anisotropy decreases with increasing pressure; in the meantime, it is interesting to find that the degree of anisotropy is reduced in the following order of planes under the same pressure.
Bronchopleural communication following intrapleural doses of tPA/DNase for empyema
Authors: Roy Bapti , Teh Mark C. , Kuok Yi Jin , Lee Y. C. Gary
Published: August 2020

Intrapleural tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and deoxyribonuclease (DNase) therapy is a new treatment for pleural infection. Clinical experiences of tPA/DNase therapy, and its complications, are cumulating. We present a patient with multiloculated empyema but no initial evidence of a bronchopleural fistula. She was treated with antibiotics and chest tube drainage of the basal collection through which four doses of tPA/DNase were delivered with success. The lateral collection worsened necessitating separate tube drainage and tPA/DNase treatment. She reported chest “fullness” when instilled the second dose. The third instillation of tPA triggered immediate vigorous coughing and expectoration of salty‐tasting fluid, likely the tPA/saline solution. The symptoms spontaneously settled after 15 min, with no evidence of air leak. The loculated fluid was successfully evacuated. The patient made a full recovery after an antibiotic course with no long‐term consequences. Pulmonary migration of drugs via a bronchopleural communication, although rare, can occur with intrapleural tPA/DNase therapy.
Tropine‐Based Ionic Liquid Gel for Adsorption of Protein Ovalbumin: High Capacity, Selectivity and Biocompatibility
Authors: Li Fulin , Lin Min , Yao Shun , Wang Xuejiao , Zhu Minghui , Song Hang
Published: August 2020

Chicken ovalbumin (OVA) and lysozyme (LZ) are important biological products, which come from the egg‐white. However, the separation of OVA and LZ is realized by traditional salting‐out method needing large amount of ammonium sulfate, leading to lysozyme enzyme activity reducing. In this work, we used a tropine‐based ionic liquid (IL) hydrogel to separate OVA and LZ. The adsorption isotherms, thermodynamics and kinetics were investigated. The IL gel showed maximum adsorption capacity of 926 mg g−1 for OVA, nearly 152 % higher than that reported in other literature. Moreover, the secondary structure of desorbed OVA was confirmed by fluorescence spectroscopy (FL), circular dichroism spectra (CD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The material presented high OVA adsorption capacity, excellent OVA selectivity and good biocompatibility in OVA‐LZ protein system. It could be considered as a promising material for preferential protein adsorption, at least for separation of OVA and LZ.
Nitrogen Doped Carbon Nanomaterial as Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Acidic Media: To use in Electro‐Fenton
Authors: Kamaraj Ramakrishnan , Nesakumar Noel , Vasudevan Subramanyan
Published: August 2020

The doped heteroatom in carbon matrices plays a crucial role in the electro‐Fenton process. Here, we investigated the electrocatalytic activities of the acetonitrile –derived (by flame synthesis) nitrogen‐doped carbon nanomaterials for the two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in the electro‐Fenton process, focusing on the peroxide generation and degradation of chlorophenoxy acid herbicides from contaminated water. Besides, we studied the anodic oxidation of chlorophenoxy acid herbicides from the water, and comparatively electrochemically generated OH radicals yield the higher degradation efficiency. To study the fundamental property, the linear sweep voltammetry studies of nitrogen‐doped carbon cathode material exhibits the excellent electrocatalytic activity towards 2 electron transfer oxygen reduction reaction in acidic conditions and successfully applied for the degradation of herbicides This work provides a feasible synthetic approach for scalable production of acetonitrile derived high‐performance carbon‐based ORR catalyst. The degradation results point out that, nitrogen‐doped carbon nanomaterial is one of the promising cathode materials for the degradation of organic pollutants by electro‐Fenton process
Synthesis of Various Derivatives of [1,3]Selenazolo[4,5‐d]pyrimidine and Exploitation of These Heterocyclic Systems as Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Anticancer Agents
Authors: Sheikhi‐Mohammareh Seddigheh , Shiri Ali , Maleki Ebrahim H. , Matin Maryam M. , Beyzaei Hamid , Baranipour Parviz , Oroojalian Fatemeh , Memariani Toktam
Published: August 2020

A number of diversely functionalized derivatives of a novel [1,3]selenazolo[4,5‐d]pyrimidine have been synthesized through heterocyclization of some 2,4,5‐trisubstituted‐1,3‐selenazoles with orthoesters in refluxing acetic acid. The synthetic compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against a panel of microorganisms including Gram‐negative bacteria, Gram‐positive bacteria, and pathogenic fungi. The antifungal results revealed that the new selenium‐containing heterocycles were as good as or sometimes better than terbinafine and fluconazole. The in vitro anticancer activities of aforementioned heterocyclic compounds were screened against human breast carcinoma MCF‐7 and HeLa cervical cancer cells as well as HDF (human dermal fibroblast) normal cells. Antiproliferative results indicated that compounds with piperidine moiety on MCF‐7 cells and with morpholine moiety on HeLa cells exhibited well broad‐spectrum of anticancer activities with 397, 298 and 235 μM and 533, 390 and 204 μM of IC50 values after 24, 48 and 72 h of treatments, respectively, while they had no significant toxic effects on normal cells.
Selective Oxidation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid over MnOx‐CeO2 Supported Palladium Nanocatalyst under Aqueous Conditions
Authors: Yan Changhao , Song Hongyao , Zhang Yunlei , Wei Yanan , Wang Kai , Li Bing , Yuan Shouqi , Yan Yongsheng
Published: August 2020

Selective aerobic oxidation of biomass‐derived 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) into high value‐added 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is regarded as one of the most attractive biomass transformations due to a wide range of its application prospects, particularly as an important renewable alternative to petroleum‐derived terephthalic acid in the synthesis of useful polymers. Herein, a novel MnOx−CeO2 (MC) supported palladium catalyst was synthesized and applied for the aerobic oxidation of HMF into FDCA in KHCO3 aqueous solution. The physical and chemical properties of the obtained catalysts were systematically characterized by TEM, N2 adsorption and desorption, XRD, TG, XPS, and H2‐TPR characterization methods. And the highest yield of FDCA at 92.5 % was achieved under the optimal reaction conditions. Moreover, regeneration tests revealed the synthesized Pd/MC catalyst can be recovered and reused at least five times without significant loss of catalytic activity. The developed facile reaction system with Pd/MC catalysts offers a new route to large‐scale and economically viable processes for the oxidation of HMF into FDCA.
Effect of Microstructures on the Acidity and Catalytic Performance for H2Ti3O7 Nanomaterials
Authors: Xu Congbo , He Jie , Zhang Wei , Cui Hongshan , Zhu Jichao , Hu Lifang
Published: August 2020

The effects of the microstructure of H2Ti3O7 nanomaterials on the acidity and catalytic performance were examined. Layered metal oxides H2Ti3O7, two‐dimensional H2Ti3O7 nanosheets and one‐dimensional H2Ti3O7 nanotubes were successfully synthesized. The physicochemical properties of the as‐prepared catalysts were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, TG, BET, LRS and Py‐FTIR. Esterification of acetic acid with n‐butanol was employed as test reaction to evaluate the catalytic performance of the as‐prepared solid acid catalysts. The results show that the microstructure is important to the catalytic activity, and the catalytic performance of the nanotubes is significantly higher than the values from nanosheets and layered H2Ti3O7. H2Ti3O7 nanotubes with multi‐walled scroll‐type open end structure possess the largest specific surface area among the as‐prepared catalysts, and it has stronger Brønsted acid strength and larger acid amount than that of nanosheets. The high catalytic activity for nanotubes may result from surface acid characteristics and confinement effect.
Antimicrobial use practices and resistance in indicator bacteria in communal cattle in the Mnisi community, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Authors: Mupfunya Charlotte Ropafadzo , Qekwana Daniel Nenene , Naidoo Vinny
Published: August 2020

Surveillance of antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance is a critical component of the “Global Action Plan” to tackle antimicrobial resistance. However, there is a paucity of such surveillance in communal farming areas in South Africa. This study investigated knowledge and antimicrobial use practices by cattle farmers and antimicrobial resistance levels of indicator bacteria in cattle in a rural communal farming area in South Africa. Seventy (70) farmers were interviewed at five cattle inspection sites using structured questionnaires. Rectal swabs were collected from apparently healthy cattle (n = 100) for culture of Escherichia coli and Enterococcus species, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing using broth microdilution. The farmers indicated predominantly using tetracyclines. Although 42% of the farmers indicated hearing about antimicrobial resistance, none of them clearly understood what it involves. Seventy‐nine (79) E. coli and 71 Enterococcus species were isolated with E. faecium being the dominant species among the Enterococcus isolates. E. coli isolates were resistant to colistin (16%; 13/79), chlortetracycline (8%; 6/79) and amoxicillin (8%; 6/79). Enterococcus isolates were resistant to enrofloxacin (55%; 39/71) and amoxycillin (3%; 2/71). We observed knowledge gaps in prudent antimicrobial use practices and antimicrobial resistance among the farmers. Farmer tailored education programmes on primary animal health care and prudent antimicrobial use practices must be developed and implemented to improve antimicrobial stewardship among farmers with limited veterinary supervision. The level of colistin resistance detected among E. coli isolates from rural communal cattle in this study was unexpected and warrants further molecular investigation to check if the resistance is plasmid mediated.
Safety and Security: Managerial Tensions and Synergies
Authors: Schulman Paul R.
Published: August 2020

The relationship between organizational safety and security is a conceptual and practical challenge. This paper focuses on the management aspects of this challenge. Its argument is that we have yet to parse out the full range of contradictory and complementary requirements of these two as managerial missions. Considering the requirements for high reliability management can provide a clarifying lens for sorting out the contradictions and complementarities. Some overlapping requirements from a high reliability perspective actually argue for an integration of the two missions within one managerial framework with enhancements for “higher resolution” reliability.
The tamed MHD equations
Authors: Schenke Andre
Published: August 2020

We study a regularised version of the magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) equations, the tamed MHD (TMHD) equations. They are a model for the flow of electrically conducting fluids through porous media. We prove existence and uniqueness of TMHD on the whole space $${\mathbb {R}}^{3}$$

R

3

, that smooth data give rise to smooth solutions and show that solutions to TMHD converge to a suitable weak solution of the MHD equations as the taming parameter N tends to infinity. Furthermore, we adapt a regularity result for the Navier–Stokes equations to the MHD case.
Combined trauma in craniomaxillofacial and orthopedic-traumatological patients: the need for proper interdisciplinary care in trauma units
Authors: Mühlenfeld Nils , Thoenissen Philipp , Verboket René , Sader Robert , Marzi Ingo , Ghanaati Shahram
Published: August 2020

Aim

The primary aim of this study was to analyze frequency and characteristics of combined facial and peripheral trauma with consecutive hospitalization and treatment.

Materials and methods

The study included all patients with concomitant orthopedic-traumatolgical (OT) and craniomaxillofacial (CMF) injuries admitted to our level I trauma center in 2018. The data were collected by analysis of the institution’s database and radiological reviews and included age, sex, injury type, weekday and time of presentation. All patients were examined and treated by a team of surgeons specialized in OT and CMF directly after presentation.

Results

A total number of 1040 combined OT and CMF patients were identified. Mean age was 33.0 ± 26.2 years. 67.3% (n = 700) were male patients. Primary presentation happened most frequently on Sundays (n = 199) and between 7 and 8 pm (n = 74). 193 OT fractures were documented, where cervical spine injuries were most frequent (n = 30). 365 facial and skull fractures were recorded. 10.8% of the 204 patients with fractures of the viscerocranium presented with at least one fracture of the extremity, 7.8% (16/204) with cervical spine fractures, 33.3% (68/204) with signs of closed brain trauma and 9.8% (20/204) with intracranial hemorrhage.

Discussion

The study shows a high frequency of combined facial with OT-injuries and brain damage in a predominantly young and male cohort. Attendance by interdisciplinary teams of both CMF and OT surgeons specialized in cervical spine trauma surgery is highly advisable for adequate treatment.

Conclusion

Diagnostics and treatment should be performed by a highly specialized OT and CMF team, with a consulting neurosurgeon in a level-1 trauma center to avoid missed diagnoses and keep mortality low.
Differential expression of transcription factor- and further growth-related genes correlates with contrasting cluster architecture in Vitis vinifera ‘Pinot Noir’ and Vitis spp. genotypes
Authors: Richter Robert , Rossmann Susanne , Gabriel Doreen , Töpfer Reinhard , Theres Klaus , Zyprian Eva
Published: August 2020

Grapevine (Vitis viniferaL.) is an economically important crop that needs to comply with high quality standards for fruit, juice and wine production. Intense plant protection is required to avoid fungal damage. Grapevine cultivars with loose cluster architecture enable reducing protective treatments due to their enhanced resilience against fungal infections, such asBotrytis cinerea-induced gray mold. A recent study identified transcription factor geneVvGRF4as determinant of pedicel length, an important component of cluster architecture, in samples of two loose and two compact quasi-isogenic ‘Pinot Noir’ clones. Here, we extended the analysis to 12 differently clustered ‘Pinot Noir’ clones from five diverse clonal selection programs. Differential gene expression of these clones was studied in three different locations over three seasons. Two phenotypically opposite clones were grown at all three locations and served for standardization. Data were correlated with the phenotypic variation of cluster architecture sub-traits. A set of 14 genes with consistent expression differences between loosely and compactly clustered clones—independent from season and location—was newly identified. These genes have annotations related to cellular growth, cell division and auxin metabolism and include two more transcription factor genes,PRE6andSEP1-like. The differential expression ofVvGRF4in relation to loose clusters was exclusively found in ‘Pinot Noir’ clones. Gene expression studies were further broadened to phenotypically contrasting F1 individuals of an interspecific cross and OIV reference varieties of loose cluster architecture. This investigation confirmedPRE6and six growth-related genes to show differential expression related to cluster architecture over genetically divergent backgrounds.
Die Behandlung des Chondroblastoms im Humeruskopf
Authors: Oenning Sebastian , Schneider Kristian Nikolaus , Gosheger Georg , Theil Christoph , Müller Friederike , Deventer Niklas , Lübben Timo
Published: August 2020

Wir präsentieren den Fall einer 22-jährigen Patientin mit einem histopathologisch gesicherten Chondroblastom des rechten Humeruskopfes. Um bei der jungen und funktionell anspruchsvollen Patientin eine möglichst schonende und anatomische Rekonstruktion der humeralen Gelenkfläche zu erzielen, ohne dabei auf einen totalendoprothetischen Gelenkersatz zurückzugreifen, implantierten wir nach intraläsionaler Kürettage des Chondroblastoms eine HemiCAP®. Die sehr guten funktionellen Kurzzeitergebnisse zeigen, dass dieser Therapieansatz eine sehr gute Behandlungsoption darstellen kann.
WAAM system with interpass temperature control and forced cooling for near-net-shape printing of small metal components
Authors: Kozamernik Nejc , Bračun Drago , Klobčar Damjan
Published: August 2020

In an attempt to find a solution similar to the FDM 3D printers which would allow cost-effective and reliable additive manufacturing of metal components, this paper proposes a three-axis WAAM system capable of reliably printing small, near-net-shape metal objects. The system consists of gas metal arc (GMA) process equipment, a three-axis CNC positioning system, the interpass temperature control and forced cooling of the base plate and the deposit. The main challenge addressed is the minimisation of shape distortions caused by excessive heat accumulation when printing small objects. The interpass temperature control uses an IR pyrometer to remotely measure the last deposited layer and a control system to keep the interpass temperature below the predefined value by stopping the deposition after each layer in order to allow the deposit to cool. This results in a stable and more repeatable shape of the deposit, even when the heat transfer conditions are changing during the build-up process. The combination of adaptive interlayer dwell time and forced cooling significantly improves system productivity. Open-source NC control and path generation software is used, which enables fast and easy creation of the control code. Different control methods are evaluated through the printing of simple walls, and the printing accuracy is evaluated by printing small shell objects. As the results show, the interpass temperature control allows small objects to be printed at near-net shape with a deviation of 2%, which means that successful printing of 3D shapes can be achieved without trial and error approach.
IP solutions for international kidney exchange programmes
Authors: Mincu Radu-Stefan , Biró Péter , Gyetvai Márton , Popa Alexandru , Verma Utkarsh
Published: August 2020

In kidney exchange programmes patients with end-stage renal failure may exchange their willing, but incompatible living donors among each other. National kidney exchange programmes are in operation in ten European countries, and some of them have already conducted international exchanges through regulated collaborations. The exchanges are selected by conducting regular matching runs (typically every three months) according to well-defined constraints and optimisation criteria, which may differ across countries. In this work we give integer programming formulations for solving international kidney exchange problems, where the optimisation goals and constraints may be different in the participating countries and various feasibility criteria may apply for the international cycles and chains. We also conduct simulations showing the long-run effects of international collaborations for different pools and under various national restrictions and objectives. We compute the expected gains of the cooperation between two countries with different pool sizes and different restrictions on the cycle-length. For instance, if country A allows 3-way cycles and country B allows 2-way cycles only, whilst the pool size of country A is four times larger than the pool size of country B (which is a realistic case for the relation of Spain and France, respectively), then the increase in the number of transplants will be about 2% for country A and about 37% for country B.
On the reproducibility of hippocampal MEGA-sLASER GABA MRS at 7T using an optimized analysis pipeline
Authors: Völzke Yannik , Pracht Eberhard D. , Hattingen Elke , Y.Tse Desmond H. , Stöcker Tony
Published: August 2020

Objectives

GABA is the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter. Thus, variation in its concentration is connected to a wide variety of diseases. However, the low concentration and the overlap of more prominent resonances hamper GABA quantification using MR spectroscopy. The hippocampus plays a pivotal role in neurodegeneration. Susceptibility discontinuities in the vicinity of the hippocampus cause strongB0inhomogeneities, impeding GABA spectroscopy. The aim of this work is to improve the reproducibility of hippocampal GABA+ MRS.

Methods

The GABA+/total creatine ratio in the hippocampus was measured using a MEGA-sLASER sequence at 7 Tesla. 10 young healthy volunteers participated in the study. A dedicated pre-processing approach was established. Spectral quantification was performed with Tarquin. The quantification parameters were carefully adjusted to ensure optimal quantification.

Results

An inter-subject coefficient of variation of the GABA+/total creatine of below 15% was achieved. Additional to spectral registration, which is essential to obtain reproducible GABA measures, eddy current compensation and additional difference artifact suppression improved the reproducibility. The mean FWHM was 23.1 Hz (0.078 ppm).

Conclusion

The increased spectral dispersion of ultra-high-field spectroscopy allows for reproducible spectral quantification, despite a very broad line width. The achieved reproducibility enables the routine use of hippocampal GABA spectroscopy at 7 Tesla.
Prognostic significance of serum inflammatory markers in esophageal cancer
Authors: Powell Arfon G. M. T. , Eley Catherine , Chin Carven , Coxon Alexandra H , Christian Adam , Lewis Wyn G. ,   South East Wales Oesophagogastric Cancer Collaborative
Published: August 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the relative prognostic value of biomarkers to measure the systemic inflammatory response (SIR) and potentially improve prognostic modeling in patients undergoing potentially curative surgery for esophageal adenocarcinoma (EC).

Methods

Consecutive 330 patients undergoing surgery for EC between 2004 and 2018 within a regional UK cancer network were identified. Serum measurements of haemoglobin, C-reactive protein, albumin, modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS), and differential neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were obtained before surgery, and correlated with histopathological factors and outcomes. Primary outcome measures were disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

Of 330 OC patients, 294 underwent potentially curative esophagectomy. Univariable DFS analysis revealed pT, pN, pTNM stage (all p < 0.001), poor differentiation (p = 0.001), vascular invasion (p < 0.001), R1 status (p < 0.001), perioperative chemotherapy (p = 0.009), CRP (p = 0.010), mGPS (p = 0.011), and NLR (p < 0.001), were all associated with poor survival. Multivariable Cox regression analysis of DFS revealed only NLR [Hazard Ratio (HR) 3.63, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 2.11–6.24, p < 0.001] retained significance. Multivariable Cox regression analysis of OS revealed similar findings: NLR [HR 2.66, (95% CI 1.58–4.50), p < 0.001].

Conclusion

NLR is an important SIR prognostic biomarker associated with DFS and OS in EC.
The effects of coating culture dishes with collagen on fibroblast cell shape and swirling pattern formation
Authors: Hashimoto Kei , Yamashita Kimiko , Enoyoshi Kanako , Dahan Xavier , Takeuchi Tatsu , Kori Hiroshi , Gotoh Mari
Published: August 2020

Motile human-skin fibroblasts form macroscopic swirling patterns when grown to confluence on a culture dish. In this paper, we investigate the effect of coating the culture-dish surface with collagen on the resulting pattern, using human-skin fibroblast NB1RGB cells as the model system. The presence of the collagen coating is expected to enhance the adherence of the fibroblasts to the dish surface, and thereby also enhance the traction that the fibroblasts have as they move. We find that, contrary to our initial expectation, the coating does not significantly affect the motility of the fibroblasts. Their eventual number density at confluence is also unaffected. However, the coherence length of cell orientation in the swirling pattern is diminished. We also find that the fibroblasts cultured in collagen-coated dishes are rounder in shape and shorter in perimeter, compared with those cultured in uncoated polystyrene or glass culture dishes. We hypothesise that the rounder cell-shape which weakens the cell–cell nematic contact interaction is responsible for the change in coherence length. A simple mathematical model of the migrating fibroblasts is constructed, which demonstrates that constant motility with weaker nematic interaction strength does indeed lead to the shortening of the coherence length.
French polar response particles and neg movement
Authors: Pasquereau Jérémy
Published: August 2020

I present new data from European French involving embedded polar response particles (a.k.a.yes/noparticles) in response to negative questions and develop a novel proposal which integrates the insights of previous analyses (e.g. Holmberg in Lingua 128:31–50, 2013; Roelofsen and Farkas in Language 91(2):359–414, 2015). The main puzzle has to do with the interpretation ofnon‘no’ (bare or followed by a clause), which may assert its antecedent or the negation of its antecedent. It is shown that the meaning ofnon-responses varies as a function of the scope of negation with respect to various operators in its antecedent. Polar response particles in French are analyzed as the spell-out of a Polarity head which has moved from a lower position. The various interpretations of polar response particles are modelled as being constrained by the interaction between the necessity of the movement of the Polarity head and a constraint on scope preservation. The ramifications of this proposal for related phenomena (e.g. ‘low negation’ in English, N-word responses) are then discussed.
Generation of Alkalinity by Stimulation of Microbial Iron Reduction in Acid Rock Drainage Systems: Impact of Natural Organic Matter Types
Authors: Jimenez-Castaneda Martha E. , Scarinci Carolina , Burke Adam , Boothman Christopher , Vaughan David J. , Lloyd Jonathan R. , van Dongen Bart E.
Published: August 2020

To determine the role of organic matter in the attenuation of acid rock drainage (ARD), microcosm-based experiments were performed using ARD stimulated with plants and manures. Initial mineralogical, organic geochemical and microbial analyses indicated a predominance of goethite, a substantial amount of organic carbon originating from local sources, and a bacterial community comparable with those detected in a range of ARD sites worldwide. After 100 days of incubation, changes in the mineralogical, organic and microbiological composition of the ARD demonstrated that the plant additions stimulate microbes with the potential to degrade this organic matter but do not necessarily cause substantial Fe(III) reduction. Conversely, the greatest observed stimulation of Fe(III) reduction, associated with an increase in pH to near-neutral values, was observed using manure additions. These results demonstrate that the use of the optimal natural carbon source is important and can promote the metabolism of microorganisms potentially fuelling a range of geomicrobial processes, including iron and sulfate reduction.
On the dynamics emerging from pandemics and infodemics
Authors: Leitner Stephan
Published: August 2020

This position paper discusses emerging behavioral, social, and economic dynamics related to the COVID-19 pandemic and puts particular emphasis on two emerging issues: First, delayed effects (or second strikes) of pandemics caused by dread risk effects are discussed whereby two factors which might influence the existence of such effects are identified, namely the accessibility of (mis-)information and the effects of policy decisions on adaptive behavior. Second, the issue of individual preparedness to hazardous events is discussed. As events such as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds complex behavioral patterns which are hard to predict, sophisticated models which account for behavioral, social, and economic dynamics are required to assess the effectivity and efficiency of decision-making.
Detection and confirmation of the ring-opened carboxylic acid metabolite of a new synthetic opioid furanylfentanyl
Authors: Kanamori Tatsuyuki , Okada Yuki , Segawa Hiroki , Yamamuro Tadashi , Kuwayama Kenji , Tsujikawa Kenji , Togawa-Iwata Yuko
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Recently, the opioid epidemic has become a serious problem, particularly in North America and Europe. The aim of this study was to clarifyQuery the metabolic fate of a new synthetic opioid furanylfentanyl.

Methods

The metabolism of furanylfentanyl was investigated by incubating fresh human hepatocytes with 10 µM furanylfentanyl at 37 °C for 48 h in an atmosphere of 5% CO2. After incubation, the culture medium was deproteinized and analyzed by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.

Results

On the chromatogram, four metabolites of furanylfentanyl were presumably detected: 4´-hydroxy-furanylfentanyl, β-hydroxy-furanylfentanyl, 4´-hydroxy-3´-methoxy-furanylfentanyl, and a ring-opened carboxylic acid metabolite. These newly found metabolites of furanylfentanyl were then definitely identified using chemically synthesized authentic standards.

Conclusions

Four metabolites of furanylfentanyl were newly identified. Although it has been proposed over recent years that a dihydrodiol metabolite, which has the same molecular weight as the ring-opened carboxylic acid metabolite, is formed from furanylfentanyl, this study demonstrated that the ring-opened carboxylic acid metabolite, rather than the dihydrodiol metabolite, is formed from furanylfentanyl.
Reply to Quong, Patten, Miller and Waldron
Authors: Laborde Cécile
Published: August 2020

This is a reply to four critics of my book Liberalism’s Religion: Jonathan Quong, Alan Patten, David Miller and Jeremy Waldron, whose essays have been published in a Special Issue of Criminal Law and Philosophy.
Primary Care Practitioners’ Barriers to and Experience of COVID-19 Epidemic Control in China: a Qualitative Study
Authors: Xu Zhijie , Ye Yuanqu , Wang Yang , Qian Yi , Pan Jianjiang , Lu Yiting , Fang Lizheng
Published: August 2020

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emerged in December 2019 and posed numerous challenges to China’s health system. Almost 4 million primary care practitioners (PCPs) participated in controlling the outbreak. However, PCPs’ barriers to and experience of the epidemic control remain unknown and are essential for improving countermeasures.

Objective

To better understand the barriers PCPs faced in COVID-19 epidemic control and their psychological and occupational impacts, and explore potential solutions.

Design

This qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured, in-depth interviews from February 12, to March 10, 2020.

Participants

A purposive sample of frontline PCPs affiliated with either community health centers or township health centers in four provinces of China were recruited.

Approach

Interviews were conducted by telephone, and then recorded, transcribed, and content analyzed. Themes surrounding PCPs’ barriers to COVID-19 epidemic control, their experience, and potential solutions were iteratively identified using the constant comparative method.

Key Results

Of the 21 PCPs interviewed, 10 (48%) were women and 5 (24%) worked in rural areas. Barriers to epidemic control in primary care included inappropriate PCP scheduling and role ambiguity, difficult tasks and inadequate capacities, and inexperienced community workers and insufficient cooperation. Some PCPs perceived respect and a sense of accomplishment and were preoccupied with the outbreak, while others were frustrated by fatigue and psychological distress. PCPs reported potential solutions for improving countermeasures, such as improving management, optimizing workflows, providing additional support, facilitating cooperation, and strengthening the primary care system.

Conclusions

Due to their roles in controlling the COVID-19 epidemic, PCPs in China faced a series of barriers that affected them physically and mentally. Support for PCPs should help them to overcome these barriers and work efficiently. The current findings provide insight into the challenges and potential solutions for strengthening the preparedness and response of China’s primary care system in future disease outbreaks.
Thermodynamics, adsorption, and response surface methodology investigation of the corrosion inhibition of aluminum by Terminalia chebula Ritz. extract in H3PO4
Authors: Prabhu Deepa , Prabhu P. R. , Rao Padmalatha
Published: August 2020

This study focuses on investigating the effect of Terminalia chebula Ritz. extract (TCE) for corrosion inhibition of Al in phosphoric acid (H3PO4) using potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) technique. In this study, the effect of concentration of TCE extract, the concentration of H3PO4 acid medium, and temperature (T) was investigated on the corrosion current density (icorr) and inhibition efficiency (IE). The TCE was characterized by FTIR analysis, and the adsorption of TCE was justified with the help of kinetic, thermodynamic, adsorption isotherm parameters. The surface morphology study was done using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The study also focuses on identifying the optimum process parameters for obtaining the maximum IE by applying the response surface methodology (RSM) and desirability function approach. The maximum IE of 83.24% was achieved at a temperature of 30 ℃, the concentration of TCE extract of 500 ppm, and H3PO4 acid concentration of 0.5 M. Regression analysis, Pareto chart, normal chart, main effect, and interaction effect plots are employed to acquire an in-depth understanding of process variables on IE. The IE obtained from the experiments and the predicted model is in a close match and a high value of the coefficient of determination (R2 = 99.98%) displays that the generated model was able to estimate the IE accurately from the selected process variables.