bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photophysical Properties and Heterogeneous Photoredox Catalytic Activities of Ru(bpy)3@InBTB Metal–Organic Framework (MOF)
Authors: Choi In‐Hwan , Yoon Sukbin , Huh Seong , Kim Sung‐Jin , Kim Youngmee
Published: August 2020

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with negatively charged frameworks are suitable for selectively encapsulating cationic guest ions via a cation‐exchange process. Encapsulating photoactive [RuL3]2+ polypyridine complexes into the preorganized mesoscale channels of a MOF is a good method for stabilizing the excited states of the complexes. Three new RuL3@InBTB MOFs were prepared by encapsulating cationic [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine), [Ru(phen)3]2+ (phen=1,10‐phenanthroline), and [Ru(bpz)3]2+ (bpz=2,2′‐bipyrazine) into the mesopores of a three‐dimensional (3D) InBTB MOF (H3BTB=1,3,5‐benzenetribenzoic acid). The photophysical properties of the resulting materials were investigated by photoluminescence (PL) analysis. The photoredox catalytic activities were also investigated for the aza‐Henry reaction, hydrogenation of dimethyl maleate, and decomposition of methyl orange under visible light irradiation at room temperature. RuL3@InBTB MOFs were found to be very stable and highly recyclable photoredox catalytic systems.
Runtime power allocation approach for GAMESS hybrid CPU‐GPU implementation
Authors: Sundriyal Vaibhav , Sosonkina Masha , Poole David , Gordon Mark S.
Published: August 2020

To improve power consumption of applications at the runtime, modern processors provide frequency scaling capabilities, which along with workload optimization, are also available on GPU accelerators. In this work, a runtime strategy is proposed to distribute a given power allocation among the host components and the GPU according to the current application performance and power usage, such that GPU execution is prioritized over CPU for power allocation to maximize application performance. Next, the strategy is tailored to an application, a quantum‐chemistry package GAMESS for ab initio electronic structure calculations. Specifically, GAMESS hybrid CPU–GPU implementation as provided in the Libcchem library is considered. Experiments, performed on a 28‐core node with a Kepler GPU, resulted in performance gains of up to 50% under the proposed strategy and the largest power allocation considered here as compared with the scenario when this allocation was equally distributed among the computing‐platform components.
Probing the Roughness of Porphyrin Thin Films with X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Kataev Elmar , Wechsler Daniel , Williams Federico J. , Köbl Julia , Tsud Natalia , Franchi Stefano , Steinrück Hans‐Peter , Lytken Ole
Published: August 2020

Thin‐film growth of molecular systems is of interest for many applications, such as for instance organic electronics. In this study, we demonstrate how X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) can be used to study the growth behavior of such molecular systems. In XPS, coverages are often calculated assuming a uniform thickness across a surface. This results in an error for rough films, and the magnitude of this error depends on the kinetic energy of the photoelectrons analyzed. We have used this kinetic‐energy dependency to estimate the roughnesses of thin porphyrin films grown on rutile TiO2(110). We used two different molecules: cobalt (II) monocarboxyphenyl‐10,15,20‐triphenylporphyrin (CoMCTPP), with carboxylic‐acid anchor groups, and cobalt (II) tetraphenylporphyrin (CoTPP), without anchor groups. We find CoMCTPP to grow as rough films at room temperature across the studied coverage range, whereas for CoTPP the first two layers remain smooth and even; depositing additional CoTPP results in rough films. Although, XPS is not a common technique for measuring roughness, it is fast and provides information of both roughness and thickness in one measurement.
Advances in Antiviral Material Development
Authors: Liang Lili , Ahamed Ashiq , Ge Liya , Fu Xiaoxu , Lisak Grzegorz
Published: August 2020

The rise in human pandemics demands prudent approaches in antiviral material development for disease prevention and treatment by effective protective equipment and therapeutic strategies. However, the current state of the antiviral materials research is predominantly aligned towards drug development and its related areas, catering to the field of pharmaceutical technology. This Review distinguishes the research advances in terms of innovative materials exhibiting antiviral activities that take advantage of fast‐developing nanotechnology and biopolymer technology. Essential concepts of antiviral principles and underlying mechanisms are illustrated, followed by detailed descriptions of novel antiviral materials including inorganic nanomaterials, organic nanomaterials, and biopolymers. The biomedical applications of the antiviral materials are also elaborated based on the specific categorization. Challenges and future prospects are discussed to facilitate the research and development of protective solutions and curative treatments.
Di(benzothienyl)cyclobutenes: Toward Strained Photoswitchable Fluorophores
Authors: Sysoiev Dmytro , Procházková Eliška , Semenenko Aleksander , Pohl Radek , Shishkina Svitlana , Klepetářová Blanka , Shvadchak Volodymyr , Yushchenko Dmytro A.
Published: August 2020

Bis(benzothienyl)ethene sulfones are very interesting molecules for super‐resolution microscopy due to their photoswitching properties. However, functionalization of the ‘classical’ bis(benzothienyl)ethene sulfones with a five‐membered central ring leads to significant decrease of quantum yields of photoconversion of the fluorescent closed form of the dye to the non‐fluorescent open form that limits their application in microscopy. Here, we designed and synthesized diarylethenes with a fluorinated four‐membered central ring that adds extra strain to the closed form of the dye. The reaction mechanism of their formation was studied, and byproducts formed upon structural rearrangement of the benzothiophene fragment were characterized. The photochromic properties of the new molecules were investigated by NMR and absorption spectroscopy. Some of these compounds show enhanced tendency to ring opening and have quantum yields of the ring‐opening reaction in the range of 0.2–0.5.
Differentiating the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder and bipolar disorders in adults: Utilizing a trauma‐informed assessment approach
Authors: Cogan Chelsea M. , Paquet Caitlin B. , Lee Jenny Y. , Miller Katherine E. , Crowley Matthew D. , Davis Joanne L.
Published: August 2020

In adult populations, bipolar disorders (BDs) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have overlapping symptoms, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. This misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose both co‐occurring disorders can result in individuals not receiving the proper treatment to address their symptoms. This article highlights how trauma‐informed psychological assessment can assist in differential diagnosis and improve the timely delivery of appropriate treatments. The overlapping symptoms of PTSD and BD are discussed to assist in differential diagnosis, and we suggest guidelines for conducting trauma‐informed, evidence‐based assessments to help clarify these diagnoses.
Fibre Optic Sensor for Characterisation of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Hedman Jonas , Nilebo David , Larsson Langhammer Elin , Björefors Fredrik
Published: August 2020

The interaction between a fibre optic evanescent wave sensor and the positive electrode material, lithium iron phosphate, in a battery cell is presented. The optical–electrochemical combination was investigated in a reflection‐based and a transmission‐based configuration, both leading to comparable results. Both constant current cycling and cyclic voltammetry were employed to link the optical response to the charge and discharge of the battery cells, and the results demonstrated that the optical signal changed consistently with lithium ion insertion and extraction. More precisely, cyclic voltammetry showed that the intensity increased when iron was oxidised during charge and then decreased as iron was reduced during discharge. Cyclic voltammetry also revealed that the optical signal remained unchanged when essentially no oxidation or reduction of the electrode material took place. This shows that optical fibre sensors may be used as a way of monitoring state of charge and electrode properties under dynamic conditions.
The involvement of protein TNFSF18 in promoting p‐STAT1 phosphorylation to induce coronary microcirculation disturbance in atherosclerotic mouse model
Authors: Gao Jing , Wang Sai , Liu Shilei
Published: August 2020

The inflammation of coronary endothelium was critically involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. The purpose of the study was to reveal the roles of TNFSF18 in promoting p‐STAT1 phosphorylation to induce disturbance of coronary microcirculation in atherosclerotic mouse model. This study was dividedly transfected TNFSF18 inhibitor, small interfering‐TNFSF18 plasmid (si‐TNFSF18) and a blank vector plasmid into atherosclerotic mouse model. Results showed that the coronary vascular lumen was narrowed and crescent plaques were adhered to the coronary vessel wall in atherosclerotic mouse model. However, the accumulation of microthrombus in coronary artery and vascular crescent plaques were evidently reduced with the antagonistic TNFSF18. Besides, the inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α, TNF‐β and IL‐1β were abundant in mouse model, and TNFSF18 inhibition decreased the secretion of cytokines. Meanwhile, the amount of Th1 cells were also reduced after transfected with TNFSF18 inhibitor and si‐TNFSF18 plasmid compared with the mouse model transfected with blank vector plasmid. Moreover, the protein TNFSF18 was highly expressed in the cytoplasm and p‐STAT1 was located in cell nucleus of the mouse model coronary vascular tissues. Consistently, the proteins TNFSF18, p‐STAT1, VCAM1, ICAM1, ITGAD and ITGB3 were significantly expressed in atherosclerotic mouse model, while antagonistic TNFSF18, conversely, decreased the proteins' expression. Taken together, this study indicated that the coronary endothelial inflammation triggered TNFSF18 expression, which promoted p‐STAT1 phosphorylation to activate the proteins VCAM1, ICAM1, ITGAD and ITGB3, thus exacerbating coronary microcirculation disorder in atherosclerotic mouse model.
Species complex diversification by host plant use in an herbivorous insect: The source of Puerto Rican cactus mealybug pest and implications for biological control
Authors: Poveda‐Martínez Daniel , Aguirre María Belén , Logarzo Guillermo , Hight Stephen D. , Triapitsyn Serguei , Diaz‐Sotero Hilda , Diniz Vitorino Marcelo , Hasson Esteban
Published: August 2020

Cryptic taxa have often been observed in the form of host‐associated species that diverged as the result of adaptation to alternate host plants. Untangling cryptic diversity in species complexes that encompass invasive species is a mandatory task for pest management. Moreover, investigating the evolutionary history of a species complex may help to understand the drivers of their diversification. The mealybug Hypogeococcus pungens was believed to be a polyphagous species from South America and has been reported as a pest devastating native cacti in Puerto Rico, also threatening cactus diversity in the Caribbean and North America. There is neither certainty about the identity of the pest nor the source population from South America. Recent studies pointed to substantial genetic differentiation among local populations, suggesting that H. pungens is a species complex. In this study, we used a combination of genome‐wide SNPs and mtDNA variation to investigate species diversity within H. pungens sensu lato to establish host plant ranges of each one of the putative members of the complex, to evaluate whether the pattern of host plant association drove diversification in the species complex, and to determine the source population of the Puerto Rican cactus pest. Our results suggested that H. pungens comprises at least five different species, each one strongly associated with specific host plants. We also established that the Puerto Rican cactus pest derives from southeastern Brazilian mealybugs. This is an important achievement because it will help to design reliable strategies for biological control using natural enemies of the pest from its native range.
Geochemical Tools Identify the Origins of Chinook Salmon Returning to a Restored Creek
Authors: Willmes Malte , Jacinto Emily E , Lewis Levi S , Fichman Rachel A , Bess Zachary , Singer Gabriel , Steel Anna , Moyle Peter , Rypel Andrew L , Fangue Nann , Glessner Justin JG , Hobbs James A , Chapman Eric D
Published: August 2020

Populations of Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha in California are in decline due to the combined effects of habitat degradation, water diversions, and climate change. Reduced life history diversity within these populations inhibits their ability to respond to these stressors. Putah Creek, a small creek in California’s Central Valley that once supported Chinook Salmon, is undergoing restoration to provide spawning habitats for this imperiled species. Beginning in 2014, increasing numbers of Chinook Salmon spawned throughout the creek, and emigrating juveniles were observed in the following months. Here we used otolith annual growth bands and microchemistry to investigate the age structure and natal origins of the adult spawners. Most individuals were 2 or 3 years old, and they originated from at least seven different natal sources, overwhelmingly from Central Valley hatcheries (~88%). These findings highlight that straying fall-run Central Valley Chinook Salmon can rapidly utilize restored habitats, potentially establishing new populations. However, to facilitate local adaptations, straying rates and gene flow will have to be managed over time. Reconnecting migratory pathways and restoring many small and diverse streams, like Putah Creek, provides an opportunity to increase life history diversity, strengthening the recovery and resilience of Chinook Salmon.
Blockhinterlegung bei Tunnelabdichtungen – Stand der Technik oder Aufruf zur Nachlässigkeit
Authors: Ziegler Martin , Schröder Maximilian
Published: August 2020

Bei der Abdichtung von bergmännisch aufgefahrenen Tunneln mit einer Kunststoffdichtungsbahn (KDB) kommt es nach Wiederanstieg des Bergwasserspiegels immer wieder zu Undichtigkeiten, da die KDB dabei gegen potenzielle Fehlstellen an der Außenseite der Innenschale gedrückt wird. Da diese nicht gänzlich vermieden werden können, erfolgt in den Nachbarländern Österreich und Schweiz nach dem dortigen Regelwerk planmäßig eine vollflächige Zementinjektion zwischen KDB und Betoninnenschale (Blockhinterlegung). In Deutschland ist hingegen nach den gültigen Regelwerken planmäßig bisher nur eine Verpressung in der Firste und die Installation eines zusätzlichen Prüf‐ und Injektionssystem vorgesehen. Befürworter dieses Systems führen an, dass eine Blockhinterlegung nachträglich keine direkte Kontrolle eventueller Wasserzutritte mehr erlaube und daher weniger Augenmerk auf die Herstellqualität der Innenschale gelegt würde. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt die beiden Vorgehensweisen zur Diskussion.
Petrology, petrogenesis, and geochronology review of the Cenozoic adakitic rocks of northeast Iran: Implications for evolution of the northern branch of Neo‐Tethys
Authors: Yousefi Fazilat , Sadeghian Mahmoud , Lentz David R. , Wanhainen Christina , Mills Ryan D.
Published: August 2020

Cenozoic adakitic rocks of the northern part of the Central Iran Structural Zone (CISZ) are among the notable geological features of the terrains in northeast Iran, so a comprehensive comparison of several of these adakitic sequences is presented. This lithogeochemical analysis is constrained to examining adakitic magmatism of the three magmatic belts within the CISZ, which from southeast to northeast and from oldest to youngest are as follows: (a) south of Shahrood‐Damghan, (b) north‐northwest of Sabzevar‐Neyshabour, and (c) south of Qouchan and west of Esfarayen. Radiogenic isotope analysis using Rb–Sr and Sm–Nd methods show that the adakitic rocks associated with Qouchan‐Esfarayen magmatism have 0.512581 to 0.51288 initial 143Nd/144Nd and 0.703903 to 0.705627 initial 87Sr/86Sr, with εNd −0.86 to 4.98. Adakitic rocks in south to southeast Shahrood have 0.512775 to 0.512893 initial 143Nd/144Nd and 0.703746 to 0.705314 initial 87Sr/88Sr, with εNd 3.69 to 6.0, and adakites emplaced into the Sabzevar ophiolite have 0.512846 to 0.512911 initial 143Nd/144Nd and 0.70379 to 0.705019 initial 87Sr/86Sr contents with εNd of 5.26 to 6.54. Isotopic initial ratios of Nd and Sr support an origin involving partial melting of the subducting oceanic lithosphere of the northern branch of Neo‐Tethys and the associated suprasubduction mantle wedge in producing these adakitic rocks.
Sequence stratigraphy in post‐rift river‐dominated lacustrine delta deposits: A case study from the Upper Cretaceous Qingshankou Formation, northern Songliao Basin, northeastern China
Authors: Feng Youliang , Yang Zhi , Zhu Jichang , Zhang Shun , Fu Xiuli
Published: August 2020

The Upper Cretaceous Qingshankou Formation in the northern Songliao Basin was deposited in river‐dominated lacustrine delta systems. Three third‐order sequences and two types of sequence architecture were recognized using core observations, logging curve interpretations, and three‐dimensional (3‐D) seismic profiles in Qingshankou Formation. One type of sequence architecture was developed in a syndepositional flexural slope break, and the other was deposited on a gentle slope. The studied sequences were deposited in a high accommodation setting, which was due to the large rate of subsidence of the basin basement, and a tropical to semi‐tropical and a humid to semi‐humid climate. The episodic tectonic/thermal subsidence of the basin controlled the development of the sequence architecture. Turbidite bodies within transgressive systems tracts and early highstand systems tracts were deposited predominantly in the basinward part of the syndepositional flexural slope breaks, and they were favourable exploration targets, particularly for stratigraphic traps.
P300‐mediated modulations in self–other processing under psychedelic psilocybin are related to connectedness and changed meaning: A window into the self–other overlap
Authors: Smigielski Lukasz , Kometer Michael , Scheidegger Milan , Stress Cornelia , Preller Katrin H. , Koenig Thomas , Vollenweider Franz X.
Published: August 2020

The concept of self and self‐referential processing has a growing explanatory value in psychiatry and neuroscience, referring to the cognitive organization and perceptual differentiation of self‐stimuli in health and disease. Conditions in which selfhood loses its natural coherence offer a unique opportunity for elucidating the mechanisms underlying self‐disturbances. We assessed the psychoactive effects of psilocybin (230 μg/kg p.o.), a preferential 5‐HT1A/2A agonist known to induce shifts in self‐perception. Our placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, within‐subject crossover experiment (n = 17) implemented a verbal self‐monitoring task involving vocalizations and participant identification of real‐time auditory source‐ (self/other) and pitch‐modulating feedback. Subjective experience and task performance were analyzed, with time‐point‐by‐time‐point assumption‐free multivariate randomization statistics applied to the spatiotemporal dynamics of event‐related potentials. Psilocybin‐modulated self‐experience, interacted with source to affect task accuracy, and altered the late phase of self‐stimuli encoding by abolishing the distinctiveness of self‐ and other‐related electric field configurations during the P300 timeframe. This last effect was driven by current source density changes within the supragenual anterior cingulate and right insular cortex. The extent of the P300 effect was associated with the intensity of psilocybin‐induced feelings of unity and changed meaning of percepts. Modulations of late encoding and their underlying neural generators in self‐referential processing networks via 5‐HT signaling may be key for understanding self‐disorders. This mechanism may reflect a neural instantiation of altered self–other and relational meaning processing in a stimulus‐locked time domain. The study elucidates the neuropharmacological foundation of subjectivity, with implications for therapy, underscoring the concept of connectedness.
Alpha oscillations do not implement gain control in early visual cortex but rather gating in parieto‐occipital regions
Authors: Zhigalov Alexander , Jensen Ole
Published: August 2020

Spatial attention provides a mechanism for, respectively, enhancing relevant and suppressing irrelevant information. While it is well established that attention modulates oscillations in the alpha band, it remains unclear if alpha oscillations are involved in directly modulating the neuronal excitability associated with the allocation of spatial attention. In this study, in humans, we utilized a novel broadband frequency (60–70 Hz) tagging paradigm to quantify neuronal excitability in relation to alpha oscillations in a spatial attention paradigm. We used magnetoencephalography to characterize ongoing brain activity as it allows for localizing the sources of both the alpha and frequency tagging responses. We found that attentional modulation of alpha power and the frequency tagging response are uncorrelated over trials. Importantly, the neuronal sources of the tagging response were localized in early visual cortex (V1) whereas the sources of the alpha activity were identified around parieto‐occipital sulcus. Moreover, we found that attention did not modulate the latency of the frequency tagged responses. Our findings point to alpha band oscillations serving a downstream gating role rather than implementing gain control of excitability in early visual regions.
A moneymaking scan: Dual reimbursement systems and supplier‐induced demand for diagnostic imaging
Authors: Zabrodina Véra , Dusheiko Mark , Moschetti Karine
Published: August 2020

In complex health systems with growing healthcare spending, combining reimbursement systems that incentivize cost‐efficient healthcare provision within and across care sectors is key. This study investigates whether dual reimbursement systems lead hospitals to offset financial pressures in one care sector by inducing demand in another. We find that hospital imaging units induced demand for costly and unnecessary ambulatory imaging examinations reimbursed under fee‐for‐service, following a reform that introduced prospective payment and increased competition in the inpatient sector in Switzerland in 2012. Market structure, competitive pressures, and price regulations also influence demand inducement by varying the response to the reform. Reimbursement systems can influence supplier‐induced demand in other care sectors within hospitals where revenue is tied to the intensity of care provision. In particular, the possibility to self‐refer patients to high‐margin diagnostic examinations bears negative consequences on healthcare expenditures and potentially patient health.
Numerical investigation of induced magnetic field and variable mass diffusivity on double stratified Jeffrey fluid flow with heat and mass flux boundary conditions
Authors: Raju Adigoppula , Ojjela Odelu , R. Archana Reddy
Published: August 2020

The investigation explores the influence of the induced magnetic field and variable mass diffusivity on an unsteady incompressible mixed convective double stratified and chemically reactive flow of Jeffrey fluid through a porous medium with heat, and mass flux boundary conditions. The system of flow field nonlinear partial differential equations is reduced into coupled nondimensional ordinary differential equations using appropriate similar variables, then worked out a numerical solution via shooting technique along with Rung‐Kutta fourth‐order scheme. The results are analyzed for various physical flows, heat and mass transfers, induced magnetic field, and skin friction against disparate prominent parameters via graphs and tables. It is recognized that the temperate of the fluid is enhanced with thermal stratification; however, the concentration of the fluid is decreased with magnetic Reynold's number. The comparison of numerical values of skin friction with the existing literature for limiting sense.
Spatio‐temporal variability of multi‐layer soil water at a hillslope scale in the critical zone of the Chinese Loess Plateau
Authors: He Meina , Wang Yunqiang , Wang Li , Li Ruijie
Published: August 2020

Understanding the spatio‐temporal variability of soil water content (SWC) in the Critical Zone (CZ) is essential to balance plant‐water benefits and to enhance the ability to monitor and predict drought. In current study, the spatial variability and temporal stability of multi‐layer SWC to a depth of 500 cm (35 soil layers) at 27 sampling sites were evaluated at a hillslope scale. A total of 64 SWC measurements were obtained from 28 March, 2017 to 23 December, 2018. We hypothesized the existence of a “special point” that is temporally stable both in horizontal direction (which means different layers) and in vertical direction (which means different profiles). We found a clear seasonal dynamic pattern of mean SWC for all sites in the 0–500 cm profile, with SWC varying from 4.0 to 24.8%. In the horizontal layer, both the 130‐cm and 140‐cm layers contained a maximum number of temporal stability sites (N = 4) which all located at H11, H13, H14 and H26. In the vertical profile, H19 was the most stable site, followed by H10 and H26, with 15, 10 and 6 stable layers, respectively. The decreasing order of SWC temporal stability was 200–500 cm, 0–500 cm and 0–200 cm, which means the temporal stability of SWC in 0–500 cm profile was more dependent on the 0–200 cm sub‐profile. At a three‐dimension scale, the most temporal stability layer and site was 180‐cm of H1 and H21 of 220‐cm, which confirmed our hypothesis. This study provides an accurate description of SWC spatio‐temporal variation at the hillslope scale, which is helpful for addressing eco‐hydrological models and water management issues in the Earth's CZs.
Streamflow permanence in headwater streams across four geomorphic provinces in Northern California
Authors: Pate Adam A. , Segura Catalina , Bladon Kevin D.
Published: August 2020

Mountainous headwater streams represent a substantial proportion of the global stream network. These small streams may flow episodically, seasonally, or perennially, providing diverse values and services. Given their broad importance and growing pressures on terrestrial and aquatic resources, we must improve our understanding of the drivers of flow permanence to facilitate informed land and water management decisions. We used field observations from >10 cross‐sections in each of 101 non‐fish bearing, headwater streams across four geomorphic provinces in Northern California to quantify flow permanence and network connectivity during the summer low flow period in 2018. At each stream cross‐section, we noted the presence or absence of streamflow and used this information to classify streams as perennial (continuous streamflow in all cross‐sections) or non‐perennial and connected (surface water in the most downstream cross‐section) or disconnected. At each cross‐section, we also quantified channel size (width and depth) and grain size. We coupled field observations with geospatial data of catchment physiography, hydrology, and climate in random forest models to investigate controls of flow permanence and network connectivity. Potential drivers of flow permanence or network connectivity included in our models were channel geometry, grain size, slope, aspect, elevation, annual and seasonal precipitation, air temperature, and topographic wetness index. We found more perennial streams in the Klamath Mountains and Sierra Nevada than in the Cascades and N. Coast regions. Streams in the Klamath were the most connected followed by streams in the N. Coast, Sierra Nevada, and Cascades. The most important variables for predicting flow permanence were channel grain size, winter 2018 precipitation, and drainage area. Comparatively, the most important variables for predicting network connectivity were winter and spring 2018 precipitation, grain size, and bankfull depth. Our study illustrated the complexity of the processes that drive flow permanence and highlighted the uncertainty in projecting the precense of water in streams across diverse regions.
Impact of dividend policy on corporate value: Experiment in Vietnam
Authors: Dang Hung Ngoc , Vu Van Thi Thuy , Ngo Xuan Thanh , Hoang Ha Thi Viet
Published: August 2020

The paper examines the impact of dividend policy on corporate value. Data collection is the result of listed companies on the Vietnamese stock market in the period of 2006–2017 with 2,278 observations. Using the general least square (GLS) approach, the authors have identified three factors that have a positive and significant impact on corporate value: dividend payout, profitability, and corporate sizes; and one factor that has a negative impact on corporate value is the degree of financial leverage. The study found that dividend policy has a significant impact on the corporate value of companies that implement a higher dividend payout policy. Conversely, firms that do not pay dividends or pay low dividends do not experience a significant impact of dividend policy on corporate value. The results of the study will be meaningful for businesses on dividend policy implementation.
If global or local investor sentiments are prone to developing an impact on stock returns, is there an industry effect?
Authors: Shi Jing , Ausloos Marcel , Zhu Tingting
Published: August 2020

This article investigates the heterogeneous impacts of either global or local investor sentiments (IS) on stock returns (SR). We study 10 industry sectors through the lens of six (so‐called) emerging countries: China, Brazil, India, Mexico, Indonesia, and Turkey, over the 2000 to 2014 period. Using a panel data framework, our study sheds light on a significant effect of local IS on expected returns for basic materials, consumer goods, industrial, and financial industries. Moreover, our results suggest that from global IS alone, one cannot predict expected SR in these markets.
Is there a threshold effect in the liquidity risk–non‐performing loans relationship? APSTRapproach forMENAbanks
Authors: Boussaada Rim , Hakimi Abdelaziz , Karmani Majdi
Published: August 2020

This study analyzes the nonlinear relationship between liquidity risk and nonperforming loans (NPLs) for a sample of MENA banks over the period 2004–2017. Results of the Panel Smooth Transition Regression model indicate that there is a threshold effect in the liquidity risk and NPLs relationship. More specifically, we found that above the threshold of 73.10% for loans to deposits ratio, liquidity risk significantly increases the level of NPLs. However, below the threshold of 87.61% for liquid assets to deposits and short‐term funding ratio, the NPLs are also significantly and positively correlated with the liquidity risk. Furthermore, we found that NPLs are more sensitive to bank performance, bank capital, bank size, international financial crisis, and the inflation rate. However, no significant effect was found for the impact of ownership concentration and board characteristics either below or above the thresholds.
Therapeutic plasma exchange for control of thyroid storm
Authors: Tan Alvin W. K. , Lim Brenda S. P. , Hoe Jeremy K. M. , Hoi Wai H. , Leow Melvin K. S.
Published: August 2020

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) for thyroid storm has recently been upgraded to a category II indication after decades though its recommendation level still remains at Grade 2C according to the American Society for Apheresis (ASFA). In the absence of prospective randomized controlled trials due to the rarity of thyroid storm, retrospective data from case series continue to elevate the clinical evidence supporting TPE as a life‐saving modality for complicated thyroid storm patients. We report three cases of life‐threatening thyroid storm from Graves' disease rescued by TPE via rapid reduction in circulating thyroid hormones. Each patient underwent TPE when it was judged that other thyroid storm treatment options were futile or unsafe. The first patient received 4 cycles of TPE while the second patient received 9 cycles of TPE, and the third patient received 2 cycles of TPE with satisfactory clinical improvement. Plasma FT4 and TSH receptor antibody levels of the first case declined by 41.3% and >50% respectively right after the first round of TPE; plasma FT4 of the second patient dropped by up to 31.6% during the course of TPE; plasma FT4 and TSH receptor antibody of the third patient declined by 66% and 56.2% respectively after the first cycle of TPE. This demonstrates the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of TPE in thyroid storm especially when other therapeutic interventions are contraindicated. TPE operates via the elimination of serum proteins‐bound thyroid hormones, thyroid autoantibodies, cytokines, and catecholamines in addition to increasing unsaturated binding sites for thyroid hormones.
COLEC12 regulates apoptosis of osteosarcoma through Toll‐like receptor 4–activated inflammation
Authors: Li Guang‐Zhang , Deng Jian‐Feng , Qi Ying‐Zhao , Liu Ran , Liu Zhi‐Xin
Published: August 2020

Objective

To investigate the role of COLEC12 in osteosarcoma and observe the relationship between COLEC12 knockdown and the inflammation of osteosarcoma. Then, further explore whether the process is regulated by TLR4.

Method

GEPIA and TCGA systems were used to predict the potential function of COLEC12. Western blot and RT‐PCR were used to analyze the protein expression, or mRNA level, of COLEC12 in different tissue or cell lines. The occurrence and development of osteosarcoma were observed by using COLEC12 knockdown lentivirus. The inflammation indexes of osteosarcoma, in vitro and in vivo, were explored. TLR4 knockdown lentivirus was applied to the relationship between COLEC12 and TLR4.

Results

COLEC12 expression in SARC tumor tissue was higher than in normal, and a high expression of COLEC12 in SARC patients had a worse prognostic outcome. Pairwise gene correlation analysis revealed a potential relationship between COLEC12 and TLR4. The COLEC12 expression and mRNA level in the tumor or Saos‐2 cells were increased. COLEC12 knockdown lentivirus could inhibit osteosarcoma development, in vivo and vitro, through reducing tumor volume and weight, weakening tumor proliferation, migration, and invasion, and enhancing apoptosis. Furthermore, COLEC12 knockdown could increase inflammation of osteosarcoma, in vivo and in vitro, through inducing myeloperoxidase (MPO), TLR4, NF‐κB, and C3, and expression of related inflammatory factors. Finally, TLR4 knockdown lentivirus inhibits the progress of inflammation after COLEC12 regulation, in vivo and vitro.

Conclusion

COLEC12 may be able to regulate apoptosis and inflammation of osteosarcoma, and TLR4 may be the downstream target factor of COLEC12 in inflammation.
Deformation‐induced stress/strain mapping and performance evaluation of a‐IGZO thin‐film transistors for flexible electronic applications
Authors: Dash Taraprasanna , Mohapatra Eleena , Maiti Chinmay K.
Published: August 2020

In the flexible electronics sector, there is an urgent need for higher performance, and hence, many new technologies are emerging in recent years. The field of organic and printed electronics allows low production costs and large areas. The silicon technology allows nanometric resolutions and better performance. A new technology CAD (TCAD)‐based design methodology is needed to combine both mechanical flexibility and high performance. This work presents a predictive TCAD calibration methodology for indium‐gallium‐zinc‐oxide thin‐film transistors (TFTs), employing physics‐based modeling to support and enhance simulation‐based device development. In this work, based on the nonlinear finite element technique, a TCAD framework has been developed to introduce different types of large deformations and obtain the local stress/strain profiles (mapping) inside the devices. The impacts of various kinds of deformations on the electrical characteristics of the strained TFTs are studied. The feasibility (via predictions) for amorphous‐indium‐gallium‐zinc‐oxide (a‐IGZO) TFTs, combining considerable mechanical flexibility, high electrical performance, and finally, excellent stability under deformation, may be useful for mechanical deformation‐aware design and modeling for highly flexible electronics. To the best of our knowledge, the highest cutoff frequency (fT > 690 MHz) possible for strain‐engineered a‐IGZO TFTs is predicted in entirely flexible technologies that can be used to realize active transceivers operating in the MHz regime.
Multicolor Time‐Resolved Upconversion Imaging by Adiabatic Sum Frequency Conversion
Authors: Mrejen Michael , Erlich Yoni , Levanon Assaf , Suchowski Haim
Published: August 2020

Upconversion imaging, where mid‐infrared (IR) photons are converted to visible and near‐IR photons via a nonlinear crystal and detected on cheap and high‐performance silicon detectors, is an appealing method to address the limitations of thermal sensors that are expensive, often require cooling, and suffer from both limited spectral response and limited spatial resolution as well as poor sensitivity. However, phase matching severely limits the spectral bandwidth of this technique, therefore requiring serial acquisitions in order to cover a large spectrum. Here, a novel upconversion imaging scheme covering the mid‐IR based on adiabatic frequency conversion is introduced. The study presents mid‐IR multicolor imaging and demonstrates simultaneous imaging on a complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) camera of radiation spanning a spectrum from 2 to 4 µm. This approach being coherent and ultrafast in essence, spectrally resolved spatiotemporal imaging is further demonstrated that allows spatially distinguishing the temporal evolution of spectral components.
Choosing among alternative new product development projects: The role of heuristics
Authors: West Douglas C. , Acar Oguz A. , Caruana Albert
Published: August 2020

The initial screening decision that marketing managers make is critical. It requires the selection of what innovation project to invest in, which is fundamental to marketing success. However, our knowledge of how managers make these decisions and how this impacts performance is limited. By drawing upon cognitive psychology and the managerial decision‐making literature, we address two critical questions. The first question focuses on identifying specific decision‐making types (e.g., specific heuristics, intuition) used when making an innovation screening decision. Based on this analysis and prior research, we develop specific decision‐maker profiles about how an individual manager decides. The second research question is about connecting these profiles with performance. Specifically, it addresses what the consequences of different decision‐maker profiles are on the perceived accuracy and speed of decision‐making? Data were collected from 122 senior managers in these industries. We find that when heuristics are used alone, or concurrently with intuition, managers make decisions that are as accurate as when they rely on analytical decision‐making. However, the process is significantly faster. The findings provide an important step toward a more comprehensive understanding of decision‐making at the front‐end of innovation.
Conventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Diagnosis of Parkinsonian Disorders: AMeta‐Analysis
Authors: Lee Will
Published: August 2020

Background

Numerous conventional magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) parameters were previously found to differentiate parkinsonian disorders with statistical significance, but effect size has not been considered.

Objectives

To quantify effect size of previously identified cMRI parameters that differentiated parkinsonian disorders with statistical significance.

Method

A PubMed search limited to studies assessing cMRI parameters in at least 2 of Parkinson's disease, progressive supranuclear palsy, multiple system atrophy, and corticobasal degeneration/syndrome were selected. Either Cohen's d or positive and negative likelihood (LR+/−) as well as diagnostic odds ratios (DORs) were calculated as appropriate. cMRI parameter was considered useful if Cohen's d > 1.94 (<20% overlap) or if LR+ > 10, LR− < 0.1, or DOR > 20.

Results

Literature search identified 8848 publications and 36 were included for analysis. Putaminal (Cohen's d 2.07; DOR 23–infinity), pontine (DOR 32–infinity), and middle cerebellar peduncle (Cohen's d 2.24; DOR infinity) abnormalities were most useful in differentiating multiple system atrophy while reduced midbrain (Cohen's d 2.33–8.69; DOR infinity) and superior cerebellar peduncle (Cohen's d 2.47; DOR 51–infinity) diameters separated progressive supranuclear palsy. Corticobasal degeneration/syndrome does not have any distinguishing cMRI features, but reduced midbrain diameter may help differentiate corticobasal degeneration/syndrome from Parkinson's disease (DOR infinity). When LR− was calculated, all of these features carried a value of <0.1.

Conclusion

A number of cMRI features consistently demonstrated large effect size in separating parkinsonian disorders. However, it is the presence and not absence of these cMRI features that is most useful in patients with low to moderate pretest probability.
Modelling the dynamics of a nanocapillary system with a moving mass using the non‐local strain gradient theory
Authors: Özarpa Cevat , Esen Ismail
Published: August 2020

In this study, the dynamic behaviour of a Timoshenko nanobeam (a nanocapillary system) exposed to a moving mass is modelled by using the non‐local strain gradient theory. Equations of motion of the Timoshenko nanobeam exposed to the moving mass are obtained by considering the strain gradient elasticity effect that provides toughening and the non‐local elasticity effects that provide softening. These equations are converted to the weak form finite element equation by applying the full shape functions of the two‐node Timoshenko beam element together with the Galerkin's method. The effects of the amount of different non‐local parameters and the mass ratio and velocity of the moving mass on the dynamics of the nanobeam are presented. The frequency change of the nanotube due to the interaction with the moving mass is highlighted, and it has been shown that when the effect of the mass considered, the fundamental frequency has dropped about 55% when the mass ratio of the moving mass and the beam is 0.5. Moreover, the amount of the velocity and the mass of the moving load change the dynamic response of the tube.
Boundary value problem for a global‐in‐time parabolic equation
Authors: Starovoitov Victor N.
Published: August 2020

The aim of this paper is to draw attention to an interesting semilinear parabolic equation that arose when describing the chaotic dynamics of a polymer molecule in a liquid. This equation is nonlocal in time and contains a term, called the interaction potential, that depends on the time‐integral of the solution over the entire interval of solving the problem. In fact, one needs to know the “future” in order to determine the coefficient in this term, that is, the causality principle is violated. The existence of a weak solution of the initial boundary value problem is proven. The interaction potential satisfies fairly general conditions and can have arbitrary growth at infinity. The uniqueness of this solution is established with restrictions on the length of the considered time interval.
Radio frequency thawing chamber for rapidly thawing applications
Authors: Tang T. , Aldhaeebi M. A. , Olaimat M. , Wen G. J. , Xiao L.
Published: August 2020

A radio frequency chamber for rapid food thawing is presented. The proposed chamber is mainly composed of an aluminum shell, a plastic tray, and two metal cylinders with two metal disks located in the top and bottom of the chamber. The size of the thawing chamber is 300 × 300 × 230 mm. The proposed chamber resonates at a frequency of 433 MHz. The influences of the size of the frozen models and the chamber structure on the resonant frequency are analyzed. The simulated electric field of the chamber is distributed evenly and concentrated. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed chamber can provide a fast and uniform thawing effect compared with the other three current methods.
Impact on flame retardancy and degradation behavior of intumescent flame‐retardantEPcomposites by a hyperbranched triazine‐based charring agent
Authors: Liu Yanting , Xu Bo , Qian Lijun , Chen Yajun , Qiu Yong
Published: August 2020

The flame retardancy and thermal degradation behavior of intumescent flame retardant EP (EP‐IFR) composites based on ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and a hyperbranched triazine carbon forming agent (HTCFA) were investigated by the means of limited oxygen index (LOI), vertical combustion test (UL‐94), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and cone calorimeter test (CONE). The results exhibited that the combination of APP and HTCFA obviously imparted better flame retardancy to EP than them applied alone. EP composites containing 10 wt% APP/HTCFA (4/1) passed UL‐94V‐0 rating with a LOI value of 32%, while there was no rating for EP‐APP or EP‐HTCFA. In addition, the combination of APP and HTCFA influenced the fire behavior of composites with more efficient heat/smoke release suppression. The carbonaceous residues after cone presented expanded structures with compact and continuous surfaces. TGA results presented that there was an obvious synergistic effect between them, significantly enhancing the thermal stability and promoting the formation of char residues. The flame retardant mechanism was also involved based on the residue analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and laser Raman spectrometer (LRS). Results illustrated high‐quality foamed cellular char layers with highly graphitic degree contributed to better flame retardant and smoke suppression properties of EP‐APP/HTCFA composite.
Properties and degradation behaviour of polyolefin encapsulants for photovoltaic modules
Authors: Oreski Gernot , Omazic Antonia , Eder Gabriele Christine , Voronko Yuliya , Neumaier Lukas , Mühleisen Wolfgang , Hirschl Christina , Ujvari Gusztáv , Ebner Rita , Edler Michaell
Published: August 2020

Various types of next‐generation encapsulation films based on polyolefins have recently been introduced and could attract market attention. These material innovations can be classified as polyolefin elastomer (POE) and thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) encapsulants, both of which consist of a polyethylene backbone with different side groups. The main advantage of these materials is the replacement of the vinyl acetate side groups of state‐of‐the‐art encapsulant ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) so that acetic acid cannot be formed. The main objective of this paper is to investigate the material properties of next‐generation encapsulant films and compare them to an EVA reference. Two commercially available EVA alternatives (POE and TPO) have been selected. The material properties of single films as well as the electrical performance of test modules using these different encapsulants were investigated. The different films show comparable optical, thermal and thermo‐mechanical properties, with slight differences in UV transparency and melting temperatures. Only shear viscosity values are higher for TPO than for POE and EVA, which requires adaption of the photovoltaic (PV) module lamination parameters. The test modules comprising the different encapsulation films show minor differences in the electrical performance after manufacturing; upon accelerated aging, no significant power loss is observed. But compared to TPO or POE, after 3000 h of damp heat exposure, test modules with EVA show the beginning of corrosion effects at the silver grid and above the ribbons. Based on the results, it can be stated that the new polyolefin encapsulation materials show great potential to be a valid replacement for EVA.