bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solar cell efficiency tables (version 57)
Authors: Green Martin , Dunlop Ewan , Hohl‐Ebinger Jochen , Yoshita Masahiro , Kopidakis Nikos , Hao Xiaojing
Published: November 2020

Consolidated tables showing an extensive listing of the highest independently confirmed efficiencies for solar cells and modules are presented. Guidelines for inclusion of results into these tables are outlined, and new entries since June 2020 are reviewed. In this issue, charts showing efficiency improvements since 1993 are included as well as cell and module area definitions and an updated list of recognized test centres.
The race for the best silicon bottom cell: Efficiency and cost evaluation of perovskite–silicon tandem solar cells
Authors: Messmer Christoph , Goraya Baljeet S. , Nold Sebastian , Schulze Patricia S.C. , Sittinger Volker , Schön Jonas , Goldschmidt Jan Christoph , Bivour Martin , Glunz Stefan W. , Hermle Martin
Published: November 2020

Perovskite–silicon tandem solar cells have shown a rapid progress within the past 5 years in terms of their research cell efficiency and are currently being investigated as candidates for the next generation of industrial PV devices. This raises the question of which silicon bottom cell will be most suitable for tandem application. Currently, the silicon heterojunction (SHJ) technology dominates in tandem research achieving world records. However, it is an open issue of how to transfer these research results to industrial mass production, which is driven by cost reduction and resource efficiency and includes challenges like upscaling and long‐term stability. Therefore, it is highly relevant for the PV industry to get reliable and predictive estimates on the efficiency and cost potential, as well as technologically feasible solutions. In this work, we elaborate on silicon bottom cell concepts based on the PERC, TOPCon, and SHJ technology combined with two different interconnection concepts. For each tandem device, the efficiency potential is investigated by means of an experimentally validated simulation model. Second, we evaluate the bottom cell concepts in terms of all‐in cell costs per piece. Bringing the efficiency potential and cost evaluation together allows us to assess the different tandem cell concepts in terms of all‐in module cost per watt peak. Our results show that perovskite–silicon tandem devices are promising candidates to significantly reduce the levelized cost of electricity and, in particular, that the “race” for the best silicon bottom cell is still open to all the investigated bottom cell technologies.
Persistent homology and application on residues 1 to 28 of amyloid beta peptide
Authors: Gao Yaru , Lei Fengchun , Li Shu Xiao
Published: November 2020

This article combines the principal component analysis (PCA) with persistent homology for applications in biomolecular data analysis. We extend the technique of persistent homology to localized weighted persistent homology to fit the properties of molecules. We introduce this novel PCA in the study of the folding process of residues 1 to 28 of amyloid beta peptide in solution. We are able to determine seven metastable states of amyloid beta 1 to 28 using homology of dimension 2, corresponding to seven local minimums in the free energy landscape. We also give the transition information between the seven types and the disconnectivity graph. Our result is very robust under change of parameters. Furthermore persistent homology of dimension 1 also give consistent results. This method can be applied to different peptides and molecules.
Effects of amino acid modifications on the permeability of the pentameric sarcolipin channel
Authors: Cao Yipeng , Yang Rui , Sun Jiana , Zhang Wenwen , Lee Imshik , Wang Wei , Meng Xiangfei
Published: November 2020

Sarcolipin (SLN) is an important transmembrane (TM) protein encoded by long noncoding RNA. SLN is expressed in the sarcoplasmic reticulum and regulates cardiac and skeletal muscle contractions. SLN forms a pentameric hydrophobic ligand‐gated ion channel. The protonation of Glu7 (protonated SLN, pSLN) and mutation of Thr18 to Ala18 (T18A) have been reported to exert a significant influence on the permeability of the channel. In this study, the altered permeability of both the pSLN and T18A pentameric channels was simulated. Combined with molecular dynamics simulation, the free‐energy landscape for single ions, computational electrophysiology, diffusion coefficient, and pore geometrical characteristic analyses were performed to further understand the properties of amino acid modifications in the SLN pentameric channel. The results suggest that both the pSLN and T18A pentameric channels form stable hydrophobic ligand‐gated channels. The TM voltage has a positive effect on the permeability of water molecules and ions. By using pSLN and T18A, our study provides helpful information on the pore‐forming mechanism of SLN and furthers our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying the permeation of ions and water molecules in the pentameric SLN channel.
A replicating stem-like cell that contributes to bone morphogenetic protein 2-induced heterotopic bone formation
Authors: Mejia Julio , Salisbury Elizabeth , Sonnet Corinne , Gugala Zbigniew , Olmsted-Davis Elizabeth A. , Davis Alan R.
Published: November 2020

Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2)-induced heterotopic bone formation (HBF) starts synchronously from zero upon BMP2 induction, which is advantageous for lineage tracking. The studies reported here in GLAST-CreErt2:tdTomato red (TR)floxSTOPflox mice during BMP2-induced HBF show 78.8 ± 11.6% of chondrocytes and 86.5 ± 1.9% of osteoblasts are TR+ after approximately 1 week. Clustering after single-cell RNAseq resulted in nine cell types, and analysis revealed one as a highly replicating stem-like cell (RSC). Pseudotiming suggested that the RSC transitions to a mesenchymal stem-like cell that simultaneously expresses multiple osteoblast and chondrocyte transcripts (chondro-osseous progenitor [COP]). RSCs and COPs were isolated using flow cytometry for unique surface markers. Isolated RSCs (GLAST-TR+ Hmmr+ Cd200−) and COPs (GLAST-TR+ Cd200+ Hmmr−) were injected into the muscle of mice undergoing HBF. Approximately 9% of the cells in heterotopic bone (HB) in mice receiving RSCs were GLAST-TR+, compared with less than 0.5% of the cells in mice receiving COPs, suggesting that RSCs are many times more potent than COPs. Analysis of donor-derived TR+ RSCs isolated from the engrafted HB showed approximately 50% were COPs and 45% were other cells, presumably mature bone cells, confirming the early nature of the RSCs. We next isolated RSCs from these mice (approximately 300) and injected them into a second animal, with similar findings upon analysis of HBF. Unlike other methodology, single cell RNAseq has the ability to detect rare cell populations such as RSCs. The fact that RSCs can be injected into mice and differentiate suggests their potential utility for tissue regeneration.
Preparation of Hierarchical ZSM‐5 Zeolites by in‐situ Crystallization of Mesoporous Carbon‐Silica Composite
Authors: Du Jun , Wang Yan , Wang Yan , Ma Jinghong , Li Ruifeng
Published: November 2020

Hierarchical ZSM‐5 zeolites were synthesized by in‐situ crystallization of mesoporous carbon‐silica composites with a well‐ordered SBA‐15 structure. The hierarchical ZSM‐5 zeolite possessed a rather high external surface area (205 m2/g) and pore volume (0.35 cm3/g) compared with the reference ZSM‐5 zeolite, as well as higher acid‐site accessibility to large molecules. In the naphthalene benzylation reaction, the hierarchical HZSM‐5 zeolite converted approximate 50 % of benzyl chloride in 100 minutes under mild conditions and showed a high stability, which could be ascribed to the improved diffusion ability and acid‐site accessibility.
Heterogenization of Porphyrin into PCN‐222 as Oxidation Catalysts: Comparison in Terms of Reusability
Authors: Günay Semerci Tuğçe , Gönül İlkbaş  , Gülmez Berna , Çimen Mutlu Yasemin
Published: November 2020

Although heterogeneous catalysts can be seperated from reaction media easily, catalyst efficiency is often decreased compared to homogeneous counterparts. In this study, catalytic oxidation of thymol and carvacrol were investigated using micron and nano‐sized PCN‐222(Fe) as heterogeneous catalysts and water soluble Fe‐porphyrin complex (FePTC) as homogeneous catalyst in the presence of peroxymonosulfate (PMS). Fe‐porphyrin complexes is well‐known catalyst for oxidation reactions. PCN‐222(Fe), a Zr‐based mesoporous MOFs utilizing porphyrin as organic linker, exhibits similar catalytic performance compared to FePTC for the first use. However, higher conversion values were achieved in PCN‐222(Fe) for the second cycles compared to the homogeneous systems highlighting the importance of heterogeneous MOF system. Thymoquinone (TQ) selectivities of the carvacrol oxidation are 5 and 8 times higher than homogeneous system in the second cycle for nano‐ and micro‐PCN222(Fe), respectively. Importantly, PCN‐222(Fe) can be used for at least 3 cycles with the reduced PMS:catalyst mole ratio.
Enhancement of Operating Voltage and Temperature Range by Adding Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide as Electrolyte Additive
Authors: Han Songyi , Liu Shuling , Gao Jingxiong , Wu Jie , Yang Yang , Yan Tingfang , Sun Yuanyu , Bao Luri , Tang Weiping
Published: November 2020

Electrolytes consisting of carbonate solvents and LiPF6 readily decompose at high operating voltages, causing poor battery performances. In order to meet the needs of high voltage and high specific energy cells, electrolytes with improved electrochemical stabilities are urgently required. Here, we have introduced the lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) as an electrolyte additive to accomplish this goal. Through the research in this paper, it is found that the electrolyte system with LiFSI can form more stable and uniform solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film during the cycle, which can be used to suppress the decomposition of carbonate‐based electrolytes. Subsequently, this finding is supported by the density functional calculations and the structural analysis. LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2/graphite full cells with different amounts of LiFSI additive are fabricated to demonstrate the improvement of electrochemical performance. Working at 4.4 V and 1 C, the capacity retention rate of cells with 5 wt.% LiFSI is significantly enhanced compared with non‐LiFSI (52.4 % for none and 85.0 % for 5 wt. % loading at room temperature after 120 cycles; 47.5 % for none and 80.0 % for 5 wt. % loading at 45 °C after 100 cycles).
Designed Anticancer Agent from VO(II) Complexes: Spectroscopic Characterization, Structural Optimization, and In Vitro and In Silico Assays towards Breast Cancer
Authors: Bayazeed Abrar A. , Aljuhani Enas , Morad Moataz , Abumelha Hana M. , Bawazeer Tahani M. , Al‐Ahmed Zehba A. , Saad Fawaz , Khedr Abdalla M. , El‐Metwaly Nashwa
Published: November 2020

New pyrazole derivatives were synthesized and elucidated by available techniques to indicate their chemical formula. Then such derivatives were used to prepare new VO(II) complexes, based on their known biological history. Also, these complexes were fully analyzed analytical and spectral techniques to estimate their formulae. Accordingly, both of 1 : 2 and 1 : 1 molar ratios (M : L) were obtained. IR spectral data, represent basically neutral bidentate mode of bonding for the ligands towards VO(II) ion. Consequently, electronic transition (UV‐Vis) and paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra reveal parameters lead to establish structural forms which appeared as square‐pyramidal or octahedral configuration. X‐ray diffraction patterns (XRD) exhibited excellent crystallinity with nanometer particle sizes of solid complexes. Advanced conformational programs (Gaussian 09 & HyperChem 8.1) were used for geometry optimization and calculating essential indexes to assess some physical properties. A distinguish simulation was obtained to know behavior of complexes towards two breast‐cancer cell proteins (5nwh & 5nqr) that responsible for tumor growth. Moreover, in‐vitro assay, represents influential toxicity of new complexes against breast cancer cell, which superior doxorubicin itself. High compatibility between in‐vitro and in‐silico outcomes, gives credibility and confidence of results which appeared promising.
Efficient and Sustainable Synthesis of Spiroannulated Hybrid Molecules with Privileged Substructures using Nanostructured Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Agarwal Monu , Verma Kanchan , Kumar Tailor Yogesh , Khandelwal Sarita , Rushell Esha , Pathak Sakshi , Kumari Yogita , Awasthi Kamlendra , Kumar Mahendra
Published: November 2020

Spiroannulated hybrid molecules with privileged substructures have been synthesized by an efficient and sustainable synthetic protocol involving isocyanide‐based four component reaction of benzene‐1,2‐diamine, 2‐hydroxynaphthalene‐1,4‐dione, cyclic ketones and isocyanides catalyzed by recyclable and reusable nanostructured TiO2 with Erbium(Er) doping as heterogeneous catalyst. The synthetic protocol with special features, that is, atom and step economy, operational simplicity, synthetic efficiency and superior catalytic activity with sustainability and its recyclability and reusability provided structurally diverse hybrid molecules with unique combination of privileged substructures. The present synthetic protocol will contribute significantly to drug discovery research in view of its synthetic efficiency to synthesize drug‐like molecules with structural complexity. The catalyst was successfully synthesized and characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Evolution of Viscosity and Structure Property of Vanadium Slag during Iron‐Extracting Reduction Process
Authors: Zhang Lingxi , Chen Min , Wang Ning , Huang Mingyuan
Published: November 2020

Photovoltaic cutting waste (PCW) is a promising prereductant to enrich vanadium and to extract iron present in vanadium slag. To understand the kinetic conditions during the reduction and separation of Fe from vanadium slag when using PCW as a reductant, the evolution of the viscosity with decreasing FeO contents is measured. The composition and structure of the melt are analyzed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy. The results show that the slag comprises a solid–liquid mixture system during the entire prereduction at 1873 K. At this temperature, as the FeO/SiO2 mass ratio decreases from 2.18 to 0.30, the solid–liquid ratio of the slag decreases from 21.5% to 1.9%, and the viscosity of the slag increases from 0.12 to 0.47 Pa s, indicating that the silicate structure of the melt significantly affects the slag viscosity, while the effect of the spinel phase is limited. The transition of the dominant silicate structure from FeO to SiO2 results in a significant decrease in the amount of the simple unit Q0 as well as the occurrence of the more complex structural unit Q3, suggesting a significant enhancement of the degree of polymerization in the vanadium slag.
Chaos on the hypercube
Authors: Jia Yiyang , Verbaarschot Jacobus J. M.
Published: November 2020

Abstract

We analyze the spectral properties of a d-dimensional HyperCubic (HC) lattice model originally introduced by Parisi. The U(1) gauge links of this model give rise to a magnetic flux of constant magnitude ϕ but random orientation through the faces of the hypercube. The HC model, which also can be written as a model of 2d interacting Majorana fermions, has a spectral flow that is reminiscent of Maldacena-Qi (MQ) model, and its spectrum at ϕ = 0, actually coincides with the coupling term of the MQ model. As was already shown by Parisi, at leading order in 1/d, the spectral density of this model is given by the density function of the Q-Hermite polynomials, which is also the spectral density of the double-scaled Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev model. Parisi demonstrated this by mapping the moments of the HC model to Q-weighted sums on chord diagrams. We point out that the subleading moments of the HC model can also be mapped to weighted sums on chord diagrams, in a manner that descends from the leading moments. The HC model has a magnetic inversion symmetry that depends on both the magnitude and the orientation of the magnetic flux through the faces of the hypercube. The spectrum for fixed quantum number of this symmetry exhibits a transition from regular spectra at ϕ = 0 to chaotic spectra with spectral statistics given by the Gaussian Unitary Ensembles (GUE) for larger values of ϕ. For small magnetic flux, the ground state is gapped and is close to a Thermofield Double (TFD) state.
A string theory realization of special unitary quivers in 3 dimensions
Authors: Collinucci Andrés , Valandro Roberto
Published: November 2020

Abstract

We propose a string theory realization of three-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 quiver gauge theories with special unitary gauge groups. This is most easily understood in type IIA string theory with D4-branes wrapped on holomorphic curves in local K3’s, by invoking the Stückelberg mechanism. From the type IIB perspective, this is understood as simply compactifying the familiar Hanany-Witten (HW) constructions on a T3. The mirror symmetry duals are easily derived. We illustrate this with various examples of mirror pairs.
Graviballs and dark matter
Authors: Guiot B. , Borquez A. , Deur A. , Werner K.
Published: November 2020

Abstract

We investigate the possible existence of graviballs, a system of bound gravitons, and show that two gravitons can be bound together by their gravitational interaction. This idea connects to black hole formation by a high-energy 2 → N scattering and to the gravitational geon studied by Brill and Hartle. Our calculations rely on the formalism and techniques of quantum field theory, specifically on low-energy quantum gravity. By solving numerically the relativistic equations of motion, we have access to the space-time dynamics of the (2-gravitons) graviball formation. We argue that the graviball is a viable dark matter candidate and we compute the associated gravitational lensing.
Pure-Higgs states from the Lefschetz-Sommese theorem
Authors: Messamah I. , Van den Bleeken D.
Published: November 2020

Abstract

We consider a special class of N=4 quiver quantum mechanics relevant in the description of BPS states of D4D0 branes in type II Calabi-Yau compactifications and the corresponding 4-dimensional black holes. These quivers have two abelian nodes in addition to an arbitrary number of non-abelian nodes and satisfy some simple but stringent conditions on the set of arrows, in particular closed oriented loops are always present. The Higgs branch can be described as the vanishing locus of a section of a vector bundle over a product of a projective space with a number of Grassmannians. The Lefschetz-Sommese theorem then allows to separate induced from intrinsic cohomology which leads to the notion of pure-Higgs states. We compute explicit formulae for an index counting these pure-Higgs states and prove — for this special class of quivers — some previously stated conjectures about them.
Determination of inundation areas within karst poljes and intermittent lakes for the purposes of ephemeral flood mapping
Authors: Ravbar Nataša , Mayaud Cyril , Blatnik Matej , Petrič Metka
Published: November 2020

The karst environment presents a special challenge when it comes to identifying groundwater/surface-water interactions. Existing definitions of areas of regular flooding in karst regions are too general and lack a measurable approach for the determination of flood-liable land. This paper proposes a means of specific definition and quantitative determination of intermittently flooded karst areas, which takes into account the extent, duration and frequency of flooding, and includes the identification of data sources and processing methods. The procedure, involving spatial layers, was developed using a pilot area and tested in three additional areas in Slovenia. The derived definition determines that flood-liable land within karst poljes and intermittent lakes comprise areas where stagnant water or stream overflow is present for at least 10 days/year over a period of 30 years, and these waters have direct contact with groundwater. The results show that the proposed procedure is applicable to areas with different geomorphological settings and to areas where the quantity and quality of available data vary. The study is an example of the practical application of knowledge on karst, as the findings can be used for short-term purposes (mapping flood areas, determination of habitats) and long-term purposes (study of impacts of environmental changes). Attention should be drawn to the lack of available data and the fact that the national networks of hydrological observatories are often too sparse for this purpose. This study raises awareness of these shortcomings and improves the planning or expansion of such a network in collaboration with experts.
A positivity preserving property result for the biharmonic operator under partially hinged boundary conditions
Authors: Berchio Elvise , Falocchi Alessio
Published: November 2020

It is well known that for higher order elliptic equations, the positivity preserving property (PPP) may fail. In striking contrast to what happens under Dirichlet boundary conditions, we prove that the PPP holds for the biharmonic operator on rectangular domains under partially hinged boundary conditions, i.e., nonnegative loads yield positive solutions. The result follows by fine estimates of the Fourier expansion of the corresponding Green function.
Der Austritts Japans aus der Internationalen Walfangkommission – Hintergründe und Konsequenzen
Authors: Sellheim Nikolas
Published: November 2020

Die Internationale Walfangkommission (IWC) wurde mit der Verabschiedung des Internationalen Übereinkommens
zur Regelung des Walfanges (ICRW) 1946 gegründet. Seit 1986 ist ein Moratorium auf den kommerziellen
Walfang in Kraft, dem sich besonders Japan, Norwegen und Island entgegengestellt haben. Seit Inkrafttreten
des Moratoriums ist die IWC von zwei Lagern geprägt: Schutz oder Nutzung der Wale. Dies hat dazu
geführt, dass eine konsens-orientierte Arbeit unmöglich ist. Da Japan den kommerziellen Walfang
stark motiviert, ist es im Dezember 2018 aus der IWC ausgetreten. Dieser Aufsatz behandelt die Hintergründe
und Konsequenzen des japanischen Austritts und beleuchtet die Zusammenhänge, in denen dieser Austritt
zu verorten ist.
Explicit Algebraic Reynolds-stress Modelling of a Convective Atmospheric Boundary Layer Including Counter-Gradient Fluxes
Authors: Želi Velibor , Brethouwer Geert , Wallin Stefan , Johansson Arne V.
Published: November 2020

In a recent study (Želi et al. in Bound Layer Meteorol 176:229–249, 2020), we have shown that the explicit algebraic Reynolds-stress (EARS) model, implemented in a single-column context, is able to capture the main features of a stable atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) for a range of stratification levels. We here extend the previous study and show that the same formulation and calibration of the EARS model also can be applied to a dry convective ABL. Five different simulations with moderate convective intensities are studied by prescribing surface heat flux and geostrophic forcing. The results of the EARS model are compared to large-eddy simulations of Salesky and Anderson (J Fluid Mech 856:135–168, 2018). It is shown that the EARS model performs well and is able to capture the counter-gradient heat flux in the upper part of the ABL due to the presence of the non-gradient term in the relation for vertical turbulent heat flux. The model predicts the full Reynolds-stress tensor and heat-flux vector and allows us to compare other important aspects of a convective ABL such as the profiles of vertical momentum variance. Together with the previous studies, we show that the EARS model is able to predict the essential features of the ABL. It also shows that the EARS model with the same model formulation and coefficients is applicable over a wide range of stable and moderately unstable stratifications.
Dynamical taxonomy of the coupled solar radiation pressure and oblateness problem and analytical deorbiting configurations
Authors: Gkolias Ioannis , Alessi Elisa Maria , Colombo Camilla
Published: November 2020

Recent works demonstrated that the dynamics caused by the planetary oblateness coupled with the solar radiation pressure can be described through a model based on singly averaged equations of motion. The coupled perturbations affect the evolution of the eccentricity, inclination and orientation of the orbit with respect to the Sun–Earth line. Resonant interactions lead to non-trivial orbital evolution that can be exploited in mission design. Moreover, the dynamics in the vicinity of each resonance can be analytically described by a resonant model that provides the location of the central and hyperbolic invariant manifolds which drive the phase space evolution. The classical tools of the dynamical systems theory can be applied to perform a preliminary mission analysis for practical applications. On this basis, in this work we provide a detailed derivation of the resonant dynamics, also in non-singular variables, and discuss its properties, by studying the main bifurcation phenomena associated with each resonance. Last, the analytical model will provide a simple analytical expression to obtain the area-to-mass ratio required for a satellite to deorbit from a given altitude in a feasible timescale.
Semantic Relativism and Logical Implication
Authors: Tarasov Leonid
Published: November 2020

Semantic relativism is the view that the truth-value of some types of statements can vary depending on factors besides possible worlds and times, without any change in their propositional content. It has grown increasingly popular as a semantic theory of several types of statements, including statements that attribute knowledge of a proposition to a subject (knowledge attributions). The ways of knowing claim is the view that perception logically implies knowledge. In my “Semantic Relativism and Ways of Knowing” (2019) I argued that a relativist semantics for knowledge attributions is incompatible with the ways of knowing claim. I suggested that this incompatibility depends on some basic features of the logic of relativist semantics, and therefore can be shown to generalise beyond the discussion of knowledge attributions to semantic relativism more broadly. Here I make this generalisation. I demonstrate that for any proposition p expressed by a statement that does not have a relativist semantics, and for any proposition q expressed by a statement that does have a relativist semantics, p fails to logically imply q. I explain why this happens, discuss some of its philosophical consequences, and consider a way to modify relativist semantics to avoid it. I conclude that semantic relativism raises interesting philosophical questions that have gone largely unnoticed in discussions of this view until now.
90Sr level and behaviour in the terrestrial environment of Spitsbergen
Authors: Cwanek Anna , Łokas Edyta , Nguyen Dinh Chau , Zagórski Piotr , Singh Shiv Mohan , Szufa Katarzyna , Tomankiewicz Ewa
Published: November 2020

The research was focused on the level and distribution of 90Sr in various parts of the terrestrial environment of Spitsbergen. The mean activity concentrations were noted lower in peats and soils than in cryoconite. Analysis of vertical variation of 90Sr for soils and peats as well as isotopic ratios of 137Cs/90Sr and 239+240Pu/90Sr for cryoconite clearly showed substantial migration or depletion of the considered radionuclide. Due to the large dispersion of isotopic signatures, the 90Sr provenance was difficult to identify in the examined region. However, observed high mobility of the 90Sr might indicate the global fallout origin.
Microstructural formation of gypsum by setting in the presence of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)
Authors: Mucha Maria , Mróz Partycja , Wrona Dominika , Konca Piotr , Marszałek Joanna
Published: November 2020

The role of a polymer as a retarder additive is to enhance workability of the gypsum paste by modifying its setting process and to improve its properties. The study focuses on the influence of water-soluble cellulose derivative hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) on the setting kinetics as well as on the properties and the microstructure of gypsum. The influence of HPMC (used in mass fractions of up to 1.5%) on the kinetics of crystallization/hydration of hemihydrate calcium sulfate was investigated by heat flow measurements using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). To describe the experimental results, the Avrami equation was used and its parameters n and K were determined. The hydration/crystallization process was modified by the presence of the polymer. As a result, the K value decreased, but n ≈ 2.5 pointed to the three-dimensional diffusion-controlled mechanism. The morphology studies involved porosity measurements. Mechanical properties of the gypsum plaster composites were examined using the bending strength test and correlated with the sample microstructure.
The effect of corporate governance and investor protection environments on the value relevance of new accounting standards: the case of IFRS 9 and IAS 39
Authors: Mechelli Alessandro , Cimini Riccardo
Published: November 2020

The first-time adoption of IAS/IFRS accompanied by the issuance of new international accounting standards has provided mixed results regarding their ability to improve accounting quality. A possible reason is that not only the quality of the standard-setting process, but also other factors might affect accounting quality and one of its dimensions, namely, value relevance. By analysing data from a sample of 316 financial entities listed in 43 countries from all over the world and adopting IFRS 9 in place of IAS 39 as of 1st January 2018, this paper tests whether the quality of firm-level corporate governance and country-level investor protection environments affects the value relevance of equity values calculated according to the requirements of IFRS 9 and IAS 39. The results suggest that, despite both accounting standards providing investors with value relevant information, in the presence of high-quality corporate governance or a high-quality investor protection environment, IFRS 9 is more value relevant than IAS 39, whereas the opposite is true in the presence of low-quality corporate governance or a low-quality investor protection environment. The research results provide the first empirical evidence of the value relevance of the new accounting standard on financial instruments and contribute to the debate on the existence of other factors that, together with the quality of the IASB standards, affect the quality of financial reporting.
Beyond Mood and Atmosphere: a Conceptual History of the Term Stimmung
Authors: Thonhauser Gerhard
Published: November 2020

The last few years have seen increasing research interest in moods and atmospheres. While this trend has been accompanied by growing interest in the history of the wordStimmungin other disciplines, this has not yet been the case within philosophy. Against this background, this paper offers a conceptual history of the wordStimmung, focusing on the period from Kant to Heidegger, as this period is, presumably, less known to researchers working with notions like mood, attunement or atmosphere today. Thus, considering this period might provide conceptual resources not yet considered in current debate.Stimmunghas the remarkable feature of encompassing the entire semantic field of mood and atmosphere, insofar as both subjects and objects can literally be inStimmung.Stimmungmight refer to the state or condition of being attuned, which is understood as a dispositional state, as well as the process or act of attuning, which includes self-activating and foreign-determined forms of attuning. The word was first used for the tuning of musical instruments, but was quickly transferred to the fields of aesthetics, psychology, and physiology. This paper will focus on the contrast between the psychological canonization ofStimmungas a type of mental state, and the use ofStimmungas an untranslatable, irreducible metaphor with unique semantic force allowing for original theorizing.
Genetic diversity and differentiation among populations of the pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) at the eastern margin of its range based on a new set of 95 SNP loci
Authors: Degen Bernd , Yanbaev Yulai , Ianbaev Ruslan , Bakhtina Svetlana , Tagirova Albina
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study is to determine the genetic variability and differentiation among populations of pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) at the eastern margin of the species distribution range. We applied new set of 95 geographically informative nuclear SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) loci developed using Double Digest Restriction Site Associated DNA (ddRAD), a new generation DNA sequencing technology. The study area is located in the basins of the Volga River and its two main tributaries, Kama and Belaya. Despite the strong reduction and fragmentation of pedunculate oak forests over the last several centuries and comparatively small sizes of present stands, a relatively similar genetic diversity of seven populations was observed (on average, allelic diversity υа = 1.472–1.603, observed heterozygosity HO = 0.305–0.358, expected heterozygosity HE = 0.272–0.343). The genetic distances between populations vary between 0.102 and 0.170 (on average, d0 = 0.128). We have identified the absence of a spatial genetic structure and the existence of genetically peculiar populations in the territory studied. The genetic distances of Gregorius between populations vary between 0.102 and 0.170 (on average, d0 = 0.128). Genetic differentiation among populations was statistically significant with a mean of the fixation index FST of 0.075. Populations from the Privolzhye Upplands and from northern parts of the study area make the most contribution to overall inter-population differentiation (d0 = 0.137). No significant differences exist among the samples at lowlands along the Volga river (d0 = 0.110). It was concluded that the multiplicity and different ages of local populations and the complexity of migration routes of the pedunculate oak from Pleistocene refugia and secondary Holocene shelters can cause this phenomenon.
Tatsächliche und wahrgenommene Richtigkeit von Personenidentifizierungen älterer Augenzeugen
Authors: Martschuk Natalie , Sporer Siegfried L.
Published: November 2020

In einer Zusammenschau dreier in englischsprachigen Fachzeitschriften publizierten Studien wurden die tatsächliche und die wahrgenommene Richtigkeit von Identifizierungsaussagen älterer und junger Augenzeugen verglichen. Die Studien wurden in ein integratives Modell von Augenzeugenaussagen und deren Evaluation eingebettet, das zwischen einer Informationsverarbeitungsebene, einer Metagedächtnisebene und einer Beurteilungsebene unterscheidet. Studie 1 von Martschuk und Sporer (2018) untersuchte anhand einer Metaanalyse den Alterseffekt beim Wiedererkennen von Gesichtern auf der Informationsverarbeitungsebene. Die Ergebnisse zeigten einen robusten Alterseffekt (bessere Leistungen jüngerer Versuchsteilnehmer) sowie einen Vorteil zugunsten von Gesichtern der eigenen Altersgruppe („own-age bias“). Studie 2 von Martschuk et al. (2019) gab Aufschluss über Metagedächtnisprozesse als Funktion des Alters von Zeugen in einer Feldstudie. Sie zeigte eine zunehmende Dissoziierung zwischen der Identifizierungsleistung und der subjektiven Sicherheit sowie der Entscheidungszeit von 16 bis 85 Jahren. Studie 3 (Martschuk und Sporer 2020) untersuchte auf der Beurteilungsebene, wie Geschworene in einer Simulationsstudie ältere im Vergleich zu jungen Augenzeugen wahrnehmen: Geschworene waren sich nur teilweise altersbedingter Gedächtnisveränderungen bewusst, berücksichtigten diese jedoch nicht ausreichend während der Beweiswürdigung von Identifizierungsaussagen älterer Augenzeugen. Zusammenfassend zeigen die Studien, dass das Gedächtnis und das Metagedächtnis für Gesichter im Alter fehleranfälliger sind als im jungen Alter. Demzufolge sollten Urteiler, d. h. Ermittlungsbeamte, Staatsanwälte, Geschworene und Richter das Alter von Zeugen, zusammen mit deren Entscheidungszeiten und ihrer subjektiven Sicherheit miteinbeziehen, wenn sie Identifizierungsaussagen bewerten.
The topographic evolution of the Tibetan Region as revealed by palaeontology
Authors: Spicer Robert A. , Su Tao , Valdes Paul J. , Farnsworth Alexander , Wu Fei-Xiang , Shi Gongle , Spicer Teresa E. V. , Zhou Zhekun
Published: November 2020

The Tibetan Plateau was built through a succession of Gondwanan terranes colliding with Asia during the Mesozoic. These accretions produced a complex Paleogene topography of several predominantly east–west trending mountain ranges separated by deep valleys. Despite this piecemeal assembly and resultant complex relief, Tibet has traditionally been thought of as a coherent entity rising as one unit. This has led to the widely used phrase ‘the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau’, which is a false concept borne of simplistic modelling and confounds understanding the complex interactions between topography climate and biodiversity. Here, using the rich palaeontological record of the Tibetan region, we review what is known about the past topography of the Tibetan region using a combination of quantitative isotope and fossil palaeoaltimetric proxies, and present a new synthesis of the orography of Tibet throughout the Paleogene. We show why ‘the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau’ never occurred, and quantify a new pattern of topographic and landscape evolution that contributed to the development of today’s extraordinary Asian biodiversity.
RAMIE: tradition drives innovation—feasibility of a robotic-assisted intra-thoracic anastomosis
Authors: Giacopuzzi Simone , Weindelmayer Jacopo , de Manzoni Giovanni
Published: November 2020

Due to the difficulties in the intra-thoracic esophagogastric anastomosis creation, totally minimally invasive Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (MIE) did not encountered a large diffusion, preferring hybrid techniques or cervical anastomosis. Robot-assisted minimally invasive esophagectomy (RAMIE) has gained popularity due to an easy reproducibility of the open anastomotic technique. In this feasibility study, we described the RAMIE technique introduced in our Center, providing innovative details for a mechanical end-to-end anastomosis. With patient in prone position, esophagectomy is conducted through the meso-esophagus plan. Robotic hand-sewn purse-string is realized above Azygos vein. A 4-cm thoracotomy in the fifth intercostal space is performed by enlarging the trocar incision. The tubulization is performed to create an access pouch for the introduction of the circular stapler. After the creation of the end-to-end anastomosis, the access pouch is resected and a robotic over-sewn is realized. From January 2020 until July 2020, ten patients were enrolled. No restriction in term of age, BMI, ASA grade or previous surgery were applied. Median operative time was 700 min. R0 resection was achieved in all cases with a good lymph node harvesting. No anastomotic leak or stricture were observed. One chyle leak was treated conservatively. Median length of stay was 8 days and 90 days mortality was 0%. This study evidenced how robotic surgery allowed us to perform the same anastomosis of our open technique with good oncological results and morbidity and length of stay comparable with our previous results. Of note, longer operative time has been recorded. Further studies after the completion of the learning curve are necessary to address more definite conclusions.
Surface-modified Zn0.5Ti0.5NbO4 particles filled polytetrafluoroethylene composite with extremely low dielectric loss and stable temperature dependence
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhou Fuming , Guo Jianming , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yang Hui , Zhang Qilong
Published: November 2020

Polymer-ceramic composites are widely applied in microwave substrate materials due to the excellent dielectric properties and simple preparation process recently. Polytetrafluoroethylene-based (PTFE) composites filled with Zn0.5Ti0.5NbO4 (ZTN) ceramic particles were fabricated by hot-pressing. The particles were modified by C14H19F13O3Si to enhance the interface compatibility between PTFE and ZTN powders, which was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and contact angle. The surface characteristic of particles transformed into hydrophobicity and tight microstructure as well as better dielectric properties were obtained after the surface modification. The microstructure, dielectric, thermal, mechanical properties, and water absorption of the composites concerning ZTN content were investigated. Modified ZTN/PTFE composites with 50 vol% ZTN particles exhibit excellent dielectric properties with a high dielectric constant of 8.3, an extremely low dielectric loss of 0.00055 at 7 GHz, and a stable temperature coefficient of the dielectric constant of −12.2 ppm/°C. All the properties show modified ZTN particles filled PTFE composite is the potential material for microwave substrate application.
Entwicklungen der Österreichische Gesellschaft für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie – Ergebnisse einer Mitgliederbefragung
Authors: Thun-Hohenstein Leonhard , Ecker B.
Published: November 2020

Hintergrund

Die Fachgesellschaft ÖGKJP ist – bedingt durch die gesetzlichen Änderung 2015 – in einem dynamischen Entwicklungsprozess. Der Vorstand hat in den vergangenen Jahren einen Organisationsentwicklungsprozess durchlaufen und neue Strukturen und strategische Zielsetzungen entwickelt. Die Etablierung dieser Strukturen und die Erreichung dieser Ziele sollen durch verschiedene Maßnahmen und Angebote sichergestellt werden. Ziel dieser Studie war es, über eine Mitgliederbefragung in Erfahrung zu bringen, wie wichtig die Mitglieder diese Maßnahmen und Angebote erachten und wie zufrieden sie damit sind. Weiters wurden die Befragten dazu eingeladen, bereits definierte Zukunftsthemen in Bezug auf ihre Wichtigkeit zu bewerten und weitere Themen, die in Zukunft von der Fachgesellschaft (intensiver) bearbeitet werden sollen, vorzuschlagen.

Methodik

294 via E‑Mail erreichbare Mitglieder erhielten unter Heranziehung der Online-Umfrage-Applikation LimeSurvey einen von ÖGKJP-Vorstandsseite entwickelten Fragebogen. Der Fragebogen bestand aus 12 geschlossen Fragen, die entlang von 5 Themenblöcken (siehe weiter unten) sowohl die Wichtigkeit von Themen behandelten als auch die Zufriedenheit mit der bisherigen Arbeit der Fachgesellschaft. Die Bewertungen wurden entlang einer fünfteiligen Skala (1 = sehr wichtig/zufrieden, 2 = wichtig/zufrieden, 3 = moderat wichtig/zufrieden, 4 = wenig wichtig/zufrieden, 5 = gar nicht wichtig/zufrieden) erbeten. Die Auswertung erfolgte mittels deskriptiver Statistik.

Ergebnisse

101 Mitglieder (knapp 35 %) haben den Fragebogen beantwortet. 65 % der Antwortgeber*innen waren ordentliche Mitlieder, 15 % ordentliche Mitlieder in Ausbildung und 8 % außerordentliche Mitglieder. 12 % erteilen keine Angaben zu ihrem Mitgliedsstatus.

Beim Thema Forschung und Wissenschaft bewerteten die Mitglieder die Wichtigkeit im Durchschnitt zwischen 1,53–2,55 und die Zufriedenheit mit der Umsetzung zwischen 1,50 und 2,16. Hinsichtlich des Themas Veranstaltungen und Kooperationspartnerschaften liegt die Wichtigkeit zwischen 1,63 und 2,10, die Zufriedenheit mit der Umsetzung zwischen 1,55 und 2,22. Die Repräsentanz des Faches in der Öffentlichkeit wurde als höchst wichtig erachtet (1,23), die Zufriedenheit in Bezug darauf liegt bei 2,24 Punkten. Die Neuerungen im Servicebereich der Gesellschaft wurden hinsichtlich ihrer Wichtigkeit wie folgt beurteilt: Homepage 1,82, Lernplattform Moodle 2,28 und das neue Sekretariat mit 1,83. Die Zufriedenheit der Mitglieder mit diesen Neuerungen bekommt jeweils die Note 2,22; 2,50 und 1,84.

Diskussion

Bei zufriedenstellender Beteiligung wird der Fachgesellschaft eine gute, aber ausbaubare Zufriedenheit signalisiert. Die Wichtigkeit der vom Vorstand vorgenommenen Themenwahl wurde bestätigt. Zukunftsthemen, die von den Mitgliedern als besonders wichtig bewertet wurden, sind Veranstaltungen und Kooperationspartnerschaften, sowie die Repräsentanz der ÖGKJP auf politischer Ebene.
Unusual Combination of Anomalous Connection of the Left Pulmonary Veins and Aortic Arch Anomaly Presenting as Abnormal Three Vessel View in the 2nd Trimester US Scan
Authors: Behl Geetanjli , Mishra Smita
Published: November 2020

Partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage is often missed antenatally unless a complex congenital heart defect is associated. Likewise, isolated fetal coarctation of aorta has only a 60–70% chance to be diagnosed in the second trimester. The combination of these two conditions (PAPVC and COA), in the absence of situs abnormality or syndromic association is rare and not much reported in the literature. We are reporting a fetal heart which presented with apparent hypoplasia of the left ventricle and ascending aorta, as well as significant dilatation of the right atrium, right ventricle and pulmonary artery at 22 weeks of gestation. To begin with, we strongly suspected a left sided obstructive lesion until we noticed a 4th channel in the three vessel view (3VV) and dilated innominate vein in the absence of a dilated coronary sinus in the 4 chamber view. This led to a diagnosis of supracardiac PAPVC in combination with an arch anomaly. The pregnancy was continued up to 37–38 weeks when she underwent C-section for an obstetric indication. The baby underwent surgical intervention postnatally.
Neuroendocrine predictors of vasoplegia after cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Pasero D. , Berton A. M. , Motta G. , Raffaldi R. , Fornaro G. , Costamagna A. , Toscano A. , Filippini C. , Mengozzi G. , Prencipe N. , Zavattaro M. , Settanni F. , Ghigo E. , Brazzi L. , Benso A. S.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Vasoplegia often complicates on-pump cardiac surgery. Systemic inflammatory response induced by extracorporeal circulation represents the major determinant, but adrenal insufficiency and postoperative vasopressin deficiency may have a role. Pathophysiological meaning of perioperative changes in endocrine markers of hydro-electrolyte balance has not still fully elucidated. Objectives of the present research study were to estimate the incidence of vasoplegia in a homogeneous cohort of not severe cardiopathic patients, to define the role of presurgical adrenal insufficiency, to evaluate copeptin and NT-proBNP trends in the perioperative.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study in the cardiac intensive care unit of a tertiary referral center. We evaluated 350 consecutive patients scheduled for cardiac surgery; 55 subjects completed the study. Both standard and low-dose corticotropin stimulation tests were performed in the preoperative; copeptin and NT-proBNP were evaluated in the preoperative (T0), on day 1 (T1) and day 7 (T2) after surgery.

Results

Nine subjects (16.3%) developed vasoplegic syndrome with longer bypass and clamping time (p < 0.001). Reduced response to low-dose ACTH test was not associated to vasoplegia. Preoperative copeptin > 16.9 pmol/L accurately predicted the syndrome (AUC 0.86, 95% CI 0.73–0.94; OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04–1.32). An evident correlation was observed at 7 days postoperative between NT-proBNP and copeptin (r 0.88, 95% CI 0.8–0.93; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Preoperative impaired response to low-dose ACTH stimulation test is not a risk factor for post-cardiotomic vasoplegia; conversely, higher preoperative copeptin predicts the complication. On-pump cardiac surgery could be an interesting model of rapid heart failure progression.