bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brunschvicg, Léon
Authors: Kelley Andrew
Published: June 2021

Léon Brunschvicg (1869–1944) was an influential philosopher at the Sorbonne. Almost everyone who was anyone in postwar philosophy in France passed through his courses. Inspired by Spinoza, Pascal, and a brand of French idealism that was vaguely Kantian, he championed reason – and especially math and science – as the pinnacle of human existence. His ethics, which is closely tied into his view of religion, or spirituality, emphasizes reason. As such, a person should strive, with the help of reason, to put in harmony her own goals and ends with those of other persons, and with humanity in general. This leads, in his thought, to an emphasis on disinterestedness, a value deriving from reason, which serves to check a person's egoistic tendencies. Although inspired by Kant's moral theory, Brunschvicg's view emphasizes the results of our actions and not simply the intention or principle behind them.
Argumentative Ethics
Authors: Aikin Scott , Vollbrecht Lucy Alsip
Published: June 2021

Ethical norms bear on argumentation. Three sites of controversy regarding the ethics of argument are reviewed in this entry. The first is whether argument is intrinsically adversarial. Arguments are regularly considered attacks and replies are defenses. Is this war model for argument accurate, and does it have bad consequences? The second is whether, in giving arguments, one must give reasons one's audiences can appreciate. It is more useful to convince an audience if the reasons are those they appreciate, but are arguments beholden to the prejudices and ignorance of those in the disagreement? Third and finally, there is the question of whether there are topics of argument that should not be seriously debated. On the one hand, it seems inquiry should be free, but on the other, it seems there are dangers of communication and to justice if abhorrent views are treated seriously.
Human Trafficking
Authors: Reid Joan A.
Published: June 2021

Human trafficking is profit‐driven exploitation of men, women, or children facilitated by force, fraud, or coercion. Human trafficking exists in numerous job sectors and industries such as agriculture and manufacturing. Human traffickers prey on persons made susceptible to exploitation by poverty, economic upheaval, war, abuse, natural disasters, or marginalization. In the past decade, international protocols and national anti‐trafficking laws have authorized law enforcement to protect victims and prosecute traffickers. Despite almost unanimous condemnation of human trafficking as a violation of human rights, debates persist regarding the terms commonly associated with human trafficking, such as “modern‐day slavery,” and the adoption of a predominantly criminal justice response to address the problem. Impassioned arguments have been made against the upsurge in anti‐trafficking legislation and the intensified crime control response to human trafficking, which are considered by some as simply a smokescreen created by moral crusaders to advance their anti‐prostitution agenda. Others are concerned that prioritizing a criminal response to human trafficking deflects attention from the underlying societal causes. Without a doubt, criminal justice measures are crucial tools in the fight against human trafficking, but far more is required to stem the problem.
Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs)
Authors: Ahmed Sabeen
Published: June 2021

Although the term was first coined in 1945, the concept of a “nongovernmental organization” (NGO) predates the postwar order as a concurrent feature of the nation‐state era. Many NGOs in operation today have their origins in organizations and institutions established in as early as the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, changing shape in the wake of the two twentieth‐century world wars and the construction of our modern, internationalist, and humanitarian global system. The moral orientation of NGOs has, since the two major world wars, increasingly served the aims of international development, environmental protection, humanitarian aid, and poverty alleviation. Given their distinctive influence on our increasingly cosmopolitan‐minded era, this entry focuses predominantly on service‐oriented, international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs) working in the interests of global development and humanitarian and disaster relief. The entry is thus very much written in the spirit of political ethics. I do not by any means suggest that these are the only issues faced by service NGOs, nor do I suggest that nonservice NGOs do not confront the issues addressed here; it is simply that development and service NGOs have historically garnered the most attention from philosophers and political ethicists. Before turning to these issues, however, this entry will offer a brief overview of the origin and function of NGOs more broadly.
Proposed SAMHSA budget includes huge additions for block grant
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: June 2021

Last month, the Biden administration released the proposed budget for FY 2022, which runs from Oct. 1, 2021, to Sept. 30, 2022. Funding levels include, as expected, additions for the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment block grant (SAPT BG), to $3.5 billion (an additional $1.65 billion compared to $1.858 billion in FY 2021 regular appropriation). The SAPT BG has received under $2 billion for decades. The SAPT BG is distributed to the states.
mRNA‐Loaded Lipid‐Like Nanoparticles for Liver Base Editing Via the Optimization of Central Composite Design
Authors: Zheng Qian , Qin Fengming , Luo Ruijie , Jin Chaohui , Huang Hai , Xi He , Xiao Wen , Guo Mengran , Yang Shuping , He Siyan , Cheng Lizhi , Fan Na , Yao Shaohua , Song Xiangrong
Published: June 2021

Messenger RNA (mRNA) has come into the spotlight due to its potential for addressing a staggering number of diseases, while the lack of effective and safe carriers for in vivo delivery significantly limits its clinical application. Herein, the potential of lipid‐like nanoparticles (LLNs) containing three new cholesterol derivatives to achieve the liver targeting delivery of mRNA is investigated. The central composite design (CCD) is used to tailor the formulation of LLNs through in vivo optimization of the molar ratios of these cholesterol derivatives required for liver targeting. The optimized LLNs (O‐LLNs) are able to systemically deliver mRNA to the liver of mice with a synergistic action of prolonged systemic circulation, increased liver targeting, and enhanced hepatocyte uptake. The O‐LLNs outperformed DLin‐MC3‐DMA (MC3) in functional delivery of Cre‐recombinase (Cre) and human erythropoietin (hEPO) mRNA. Successful delivery of cytidine base editor mRNA (CBE mRNA) and sgRNA by O‐LLNs achieved more than 8% correction rates in a liver‐related metabolism disorder, phenylketonuria (PKU). In conclusion, the general method above can accelerate in vivo screening and optimization of multicomponent nanoparticle formulations, and the optimized ones demonstrate great potential as delivery vehicles for targeted gene therapy in specific tissues.
Influence of the Modulation of the Protein Corona on Gene Expression Using Polyethylenimine (PEI) Polyplexes as Delivery Vehicle
Authors: Zhu Dingcheng , Yan Huijie , Zhou Zhuxian , Tang Jianbin , Liu Xiangrui , Hartmann Raimo , Parak Wolfgang J. , Shen Youqing , Feliu Neus
Published: June 2021

The protein corona can significantly modulate the physicochemical properties and gene delivery of polyethylenimine (PEI)/DNA complexes (polyplexes). The effects of the protein corona on the transfection have been well studied in terms of averaged gene expression in a whole cell population. Such evaluation methods give excellent and reliable statistics, but they in general provide the final transfection efficiency without reflecting the dynamic process of gene expression. In this regard the influence of bovine serum albumin (BSA) on the gene expression of PEI polyplexes also on a single cell level via live imaging is analyzed. The results reveal that although the BSA corona causes difference in the overall gene expression and mRNA transcription, the gene expression behavior on the level of individual cell is similar, including the mitosis‐dependent expression, distributions of onset time, expression pattern in two daughter cells, and expression kinetics in successfully transfected cells. Comparison of single cell and ensemble data on whole cell cultures indicate that the protein corona does not alter the transfection process after nuclear entry, including cell division, polyplex dissociation, and protein expression. Its influence on other steps of in vitro gene delivery before nuclear entry shall render the difference in the overall transfection.
Design Principles and Applications of Next‐Generation High‐Energy‐Density Batteries Based on Liquid Metals
Authors: Guo Xuelin , Ding Yu , Yu Guihua
Published: June 2021

Increasing need for the renewable energy supply accelerated the thriving studies of Li‐ion batteries, whereas if the high‐energy‐density Li as well as alkali metals should be adopted as battery electrodes is still under fierce debate for safety concerns. Recently, a group of low‐melting temperature metals and alloys that are in liquid phase at or near room‐temperature are being reported for battery applications, by which the battery energy could be improved without significant dendrite issue. Besides the dendrite‐free feature, liquid metals can also promise various high‐energy‐density battery designs on the basis of unique materials properties. In this review, the design principles for liquid metals‐based batteries from mechanical, electrochemical, and thermodynamical aspects are provided. With the understanding of the theoretical basis, currently reported relevant designs are summarized and analyzed focusing on the working mechanism, effectiveness evaluation, and novel application. An overview of the state‐of‐the‐art liquid metal battery developments and future prospects is also provided in the end as a reference for further research explorations.
Unprecedented Thermal Stability of Plasmonic Titanium Nitride Films up to 1400 °C
Authors: Krekeler Tobias , Rout Surya S. , Krishnamurthy Gnanavel V. , Störmer Michael , Arya Mahima , Ganguly Ankita , Sutherland Duncan S. , Bozhevolnyi Sergey I. , Ritter Martin , Pedersen Kjeld , Petrov Alexander Yu , Eich Manfred , Chirumamilla Manohar
Published: June 2021

Titanium nitride (TiN) has emerged as one of the most promising refractory materials for plasmonic and photonic applications at high temperatures due to its prominent optical properties along with mechanical and thermal stability. From a high temperature standpoint, TiN is a substitution for Au and Ag in the visible to near‐infrared wavelength range, with potential applications including thermophotovoltaics, thermoplasmonics, hot‐electron and high temperature reflective coatings. However, the optical properties and thermal stability of TiN films strongly depend on the growth conditions, such as temperature, partial pressure of the reactive ion gas, ion energy, and substrate orientation. In this work, epitaxial TiN films are grown at 835 °C on an Al2O3 substrate using a radio frequency sputtering method. The oxidization behavior of TiN is investigated at 1000 °C under a medium vacuum condition of 2 × 10–3 mbar, which is relevant for practical technical applications, and the thermal stability at 1400 °C under a high vacuum condition of 2 × 10–6 mbar. The TiN film structure shows an unprecedented structural stability at 1000 °C for a minimum duration of 2 h under a medium vacuum condition, and an exceptional thermal stability at 1400 °C, for 8 h under a high vacuum condition, without any protective coating layer. The work reveals, for the first time to the authors’ knowledge, that the TiN film structure with columnar grains exhibits remarkable thermal stability at 1400 °C due to low‐index interfaces and twin boundaries. These findings unlock the fundamental understanding of the TiN material at extreme temperatures and demonstrate a key step towards fabricating thermally stable photonic/plasmonic devices for harsh environments.
Wing Coupling in Bees and Wasps: From the Underlying Science to Bioinspired Engineering
Authors: Eraghi Sepehr H. , Toofani Arman , Khaheshi Ali , Khorsandi Mohammad , Darvizeh Abolfazl , Gorb Stanislav , Rajabi Hamed
Published: June 2021

Wing‐to‐wing coupling mechanisms synchronize motions of insect wings and minimize their aerodynamic interference. Albeit they share the same function, their morphological traits appreciably vary across groups. Here the structure–material–function relationship of wing couplings of nine castes and species of Hymenoptera is investigated. It is shown that the springiness, robustness, and asymmetric behavior augment the functionality of the coupling by reducing stress concentrations and minimizing the impacts of excessive flight forces. A quantitative link is established between morphological variants of the coupling mechanisms and forces to which they are subjected. Inspired by the coupling mechanisms, a rotating‐sliding mechanical joint that withstands tension and compression and can also be locked/unlocked is fabricated. This is the first biomimetic research of this type that integrates approaches from biology and engineering.
Aggregation‐Induced Emission Luminogens Sensitized Quasi‐2D Hybrid Perovskites with Unique Photoluminescence and High Stability for Fabricating White Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Wang Yuanwei , Yan Dingyuan , Wang Lei , Wang Dong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: June 2021

In order to endow quasi‐2D organic‐inorganic hybrid metal halide perovskites (quasi‐2D‐PVK) with superior performance, an aromatic organic ligand with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) features is rationally designed and utilized for constructing distinctive quasi‐2D‐PVK materials. This AIE‐active ligand, TTPy‐NH2, well fits into the lattices of quasi‐2D‐PVK and leaves hydrophobic tails surrounding PVK layers, making the presented TTPy‐NH2/PVK film extraordinary in terms of both luminescence and stability. Benefiting from the prominent sensitization function and AIE tendency of TTPy‐NH2, the presented TTPy‐NH2/PVK film exhibits a high quantum yield of 62.2%, unique blue‐red dual‐emission property of both blue and red, high stability with the remnant of more than 94% fluorescence intensity remnant after 21 days. As a result, TTPy‐NH2/PVK film is capable of constituting high‐performance white light‐emitting diodes, with its color gamut reaching 138% of the National Television System Committee （NTSC） standard and the maximum efficiency is 105 lm W−1 at 20 mA. Evidently, a win‐win effect is achieved by the integration of AIE‐active ligands and quasi‐2D‐PVK, which are two of the most reputable solid‐state luminogens. This developed protocol thus opens up a new avenue for exploring the next generation of luminescent devices.
Co‐Targeting Plk1 and DNMT3a in Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zhang Zhuangzhuang , Cheng Lijun , Zhang Qiongsi , Kong Yifan , He Daheng , Li Kunyu , Rea Matthew , Wang Jianling , Wang Ruixin , Liu Jinghui , Li Zhiguo , Yuan Chongli , Liu Enze , Fondufe‐Mittendorf Yvonne N. , Li Lang , Han Tao , Wang Chi , Liu Xiaoqi
Published: June 2021

Because there is no effective treatment for late‐stage prostate cancer (PCa) at this moment, identifying novel targets for therapy of advanced PCa is urgently needed. A new network‐based systems biology approach, XDeath, is developed to detect crosstalk of signaling pathways associated with PCa progression. This unique integrated network merges gene causal regulation networks and protein‐protein interactions to identify novel co‐targets for PCa treatment. The results show that polo‐like kinase 1 (Plk1) and DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3a)‐related signaling pathways are robustly enhanced during PCa progression and together they regulate autophagy as a common death mode. Mechanistically, it is shown that Plk1 phosphorylation of DNMT3a leads to its degradation in mitosis and that DNMT3a represses Plk1 transcription to inhibit autophagy in interphase, suggesting a negative feedback loop between these two proteins. Finally, a combination of the DNMT inhibitor 5‐Aza‐2’‐deoxycytidine (5‐Aza) with inhibition of Plk1 suppresses PCa synergistically.
Molecular mechanism of aggregation‐induced emission
Authors: Peng Qian , Shuai Zhigang
Published: June 2021

Deep understanding of the inherent luminescence mechanism is essential for the development of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) materials and applications. We first note that the intermolecular excitonic coupling is much weaker in strength than the intramolecular electron‐vibration coupling for a majority of newly termed AIEgens, which leads to the emission peak position insensitive to excitonic coupling, hence the conventional excitonic model for J‐aggregation cannot effectively explain their AIE phenomena. Then, using multiscale computational approach coupled with our self‐developed thermal vibration correlation function rate formalism and transition‐state theory, we quantitatively investigate the aggregation effect on both the radiative and the nonradiative decays of molecular excited states. For radiative decay processes, we propose that the lowest excited state could convert from a transition dipole‐forbidden “dark” state to a dipole‐allowed “bright” state upon aggregation. For the radiationless processes, we demonstrate the blockage of nonradiative decay via vibration relaxation (BNR‐VR) in harmonic region or the removal of nonradiative decay via isomerization (RNR‐ISO) or minimum energy crossing point (RNR‐MECP) beyond harmonic region in a variety of AIE aggregates. Our theoretical work not only justifies a plethora of experimental results but also makes reliable predictions on molecular design and mechanism that can be experimentally verified. Looking forward, we believe this review will benefit the deep understanding about the universality of AIE phenomenon and further extending the scope of AIE systems with novel applications.
Third Places, Social Capital, and Sense of Community as Mechanisms of Adaptive Responding for Young People Who Experience Social Marginalization
Authors: Littman Danielle Maude
Published: June 2021

Many young people who experience social marginalization (such as young people of color, who identify as LGBTQ, and who have experienced housing instability, among others) have often faced significant trauma exposure and social oppression and may endure subsequent adverse impacts on their well‐being. Conversely, many such young people exhibit adaptive responding—the ability to maintain well‐being through and despite such contextual constraints. This theoretical paper illustrates a conceptual model for how third places—public settings which offer sociability and community connection—may foster adaptive responding through the mutually constitutive (i.e., mutually reinforcing and interrelated) mechanisms of psychological sense of community and social capital. As prior work on third places has not considered the social marginalization which many young people face, especially in public settings, this theoretical model also considers how social policing in third places potentially moderates the mutually constitutive relationships between participation in third places, social capital, and psychological sense of community. This paper ends with a proposed research agenda, which may empirically test this theoretical model and its assumptions through future model development. Lastly, key considerations for policy and practice are offered, with particular attention to how young people may be affirmed and welcomed in third places rather than socially policed.
Reversal Reactivity of β‐Alkylnitroalkenes as 1,3‐Binucleophiles: Application to Nitroarenes using Organocatalysis
Authors: Majee Debashis , Goud S Banuprakash , Guin Soumitra , Rathor Shikha S. , Patel Ashvani K. , Samanta Sampak
Published: June 2021

An efficient pyrrolidine : 4‐ClBzOH salt (catalyst IV) catalyzed [3+3] cyclization reaction of β‐alkyl‐substituted nitroalkenes as 1,3‐binucleophiles with various β‐aryl/alkyl/alkenyl‐substituted acroleins in an open‐atmosphere is reported. Eventually, this tunable organocatalytic reaction creates one C−C and C=C bonds selectively that turns out to have a wide substrate scope, which affords a series of substituted nitroarenes in good to high yields. In addition, several other positive features are associated with this organocatalytic approach such as evading toxic metal‐catalysts, no need for external oxidant and nitrating agent, 100% carbon‐economical, excellent tolerance of functionalities, water as a sole by‐product, circumventing of pre‐functionalized arenes etc. Moreover, a range of important hetero‐and carbocycles such as 2‐arylcarbazole, 2,6‐diphenylindole, 2′‐chloro‐1,1′ : 4′,1′′‐terphenyl and 1 : 1′ : 4′,1′′‐terphenyl were accessed from nitroarenes through our unique methods.
Introduction of protocols for mass production of Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites of the genotype II PRU strain
Authors: Bahreini Mohammad Saleh , Nohtani Mohammad , Salemi Amir Masoud , Mirzaeipour Mehdi , Dastan Naghmeh , Bajelan Sara , Asgari Qasem
Published: June 2021

Background

Few investigations of genotype II of Toxoplasma gondii, the most prevalent form of the Toxoplasma parasite in humans, have been carried out on due to the rapid conversion of tachyzoites to bradyzoites in its life cycle. The current study aimed to create animal and in vitro models for production of the tachyzoites of the Prugniaud (PRU) genotype II strain.

Methods

To develop an immunocompromised model and obtain tachyzoites of the PRU strain, BALB/c mice were orally treated with dexamethasone (10 mg/kg), cyclophosphamide (36 mg/kg), and cyclosporine (18 mg/kg) from 5 days prior to inoculation. Then, 10‐15 tissue cysts of PRU strain were inoculated intraperitoneally into the mice. The tachyzoites obtained from mice were then cultivated in a HeLa cell culture. The resulting yield of tachyzoites was cryopreserved in 92% fetal calf serum, 8% dimethyl sulfoxide. The infectivity of these tachyzoites was evaluated using in vivo and in vitro examinations.

Results

Numerous tachyzoites were observed in the peritoneal fluid of the immunosuppressed mice within 10‐15 days after inoculation, and many tachyzoites were harvested from the HeLa cell culture. Trypan Blue staining showed 80% viability of the tachyzoites recovered from cryopreservation and this was confirmed by HeLa cell culture. In addition, mice infected intraperitoneally with the recovered tachyzoites presented with cysts in the brain after 2 months.

Conclusion

We have developed an animal model for mass production of T. gondii tachyzoites of the PRU strain. This method can provide fresh viable tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii for use as and when required in future investigations.
The Effectiveness of Couple Therapy on Psychological and Relational Variables and Pregnancy Rates in Couples with Infertility: A Systematic Review
Authors: Thompson Jessy
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the effectiveness of couple therapy from different therapeutic approaches on the variables of depression, anxiety, stress, and relational factors in couples with infertility. It also aims to identify whether couple therapy increases the likelihood of pregnancy. A search protocol was entered into specific databases (PsycINFO, EMBASE, PubMed, and CINAHL) and a total of 12 interventional studies are included in this review. The results show that couple therapy of six or more sessions is effective in reducing depression, anxiety, stress, and relational complaints in couples who present with a lengthier infertility history. Couple therapy also increases the likelihood of pregnancy but only in couples with idiopathic infertility rather than medical and structural infertility. An explorative comparison of the effectiveness of different therapeutic approaches shows superior results with emotionally focused couple therapy, cognitive behavioural couple therapy, and behavioural couple therapy. This review adds to the evidence base for couple therapy and reinforces the need for this modality because of the interpersonal nature of infertility.
Experimental study on the influence of bionic channel structure on waste heat utilization equipment
Authors: Qi Cong , Tu Jianglin , Ding Zi , Wang Yuxing , Sun Liang , Wang Chengchao
Published: June 2021

In this paper, in order to improve the efficiency of waste heat utilization, based on the movement type and shape of the snake, snake bionic surfaces with different structures were designed, and CuO–H2O nanofluids were used instead of traditional working fluids, and they were coupled together and applied to waste heat utilization equipment. The main work is to experimentally study the effects of nanofluids mass fraction (w = 0.1 wt%, 0.3 wt%, 0.5 wt%), amplitude of bionic channel structure (A = 1 mm, A = 2 mm, A = 3 mm), angular frequency of bionic channel structure (ω = 20 rad/s, ω = 25 rad/s, ω = 30 rad/s), phase shift of bionic channel structure (α = 0°, 90°, 180°), and Reynolds number (Re = 1,300–1800) on the flow and heat transfer characteristics of working fluid. It was found that the heat transfer capacity of nanofluids increases with nanofluids mass fraction, angular frequency, amplitude and phase shift. Finally, the comprehensive performance of the whole experimental system was studied, and it was found that the greater the angular frequency, amplitude and phase shift, the better the comprehensive performance of the heat exchanger.
Fabrication of asymmetric zinc oxide/carbon nanotubes coated polysulfone photocatalytic nanocomposite membrane for fouling mitigation
Authors: Phin Hor Yan , Sin Jin Chung , Tan Soon Huat , Chew Thiam Leng , Ong Yit Thai
Published: June 2021

Membrane filtration is a favorable option in water reclamation from contaminated water source, nevertheless, inevitable membrane fouling which greatly shortens membrane longevity and separation efficiency. The paper aimed to mitigate the membrane fouling through the formation of an asymmetric PSF‐ZnO/CNTs photocatalytic nanocomposite membrane. Instead of direct blending the photocatalyst into polymer matrix, the asymmetric nanocomposite membrane was prepared with prior formation of a self‐assembled ZnO/CNTs photocatalyst layer through wet‐processing technique followed with coating of PSF support layer via phase inversion method. The morphology of the nanocomposite membrane was characterized to confirm the formation of the asymmetric structure. The effect of ZnO/CNTs photocatalyst loading on the pore characteristic and antifouling properties of the PSF‐ZnO/CNTs nanocomposite membrane in dye remediation were assessed. The incorporation of ZnO/CNTs layer was found to endows the membrane with ability to photodegrade methylene blue. The PSF‐ZnO/CNTs membrane with 0.038 g ZnO/CNTs photocatalyst loading (M5) showed the greatest flux recovery ratio (98.46%) and the lowest irreversible fouling ratio (1.54%) while exhibited decent water permeability about 29.99 L/m2h without compromise the methylene blue rejection rate (91.04%).
High‐thermal conductivities of epoxy composites via p‐phenylenediamine interfacial modification and process intensification
Authors: Bao Di , Xu Fei , Cui Yexiang , Yuan Sicheng , Zhang Xiguang , Zhu Yanji , Gao Yueyang , Wang Huaiyuan
Published: June 2021

High loadings of fillers are usually needed to achieve high‐thermal conductivity (TC) of polymer‐based composites, which inevitably sacrifices processability and meanwhile causes high‐cost. Therefore, it is of great significance to achieve high‐TC composites under low‐filler loading. Here, a novel p‐phenylenediamine (PPD) modified expanded graphite (EG‐PPD)/epoxy (EP) composite with high TC and low‐filler content was successfully prepared via pre‐dispersion and vacuum assisted mixing strategy. With the improved interfacial compatibility between EG and EP by PPD, the prepared EG‐PPD/EP composite exhibited excellent thermal management performance, resulting in the TC of which reached 4.00 W·m−1·K−1 with only 10 wt% (5.59 vol%) of EG‐PPD, which is approximately 19 times higher than that of pure EP. Meantime, the interface thermal resistance of EG‐PPD/EP composite between EG‐PPD and EP is reduced by 33% compared with EG/EP composite. This composite with excellent TC property is expected to be used in thermal management field.
Preparation and characterization of two‐way shape memory olefin block copolymer/silicone elastomeric blends
Authors: Lai Sun‐Mou , Chen Yen‐Ju , Yu Ben‐Yi
Published: June 2021

Very few olefin block copolymer (OBC)‐based shape memory polymers (SMPs) studies were reported in the literature so far. This study investigated the preparation of OBC and silicone elastomeric blends (70/30 and 50/50) using a melt‐blending technique to form the first two‐way OBC‐based SMPs, to our best knowledge. Two phr of ((2,5‐bis(tert‐butylperoxy)‐2,5‐dimethylhexane (DHBP) was used to prepare flexible OBC/silicone D2 (D2 representing 2 phr of DHBP) networks. DHBP not only assisted the curing of OBC and silicone but also increased their compatibility in the blends. Despite the very low crystallinity of the OBC elastomer component, 10.4%, corresponding to only ~7% based on total resins in the OBC/silicone D2 70/30 blend, the rare two‐way shape memory behavior at such a low crystallinity was still envisaged. Regarding two‐way shape memory results at various loads, both entropy‐driven and crystallization‐driven contributions to the overall actuation magnitude (Ract) were at the highest level under 450 kPa, attributing to the highest orientation of molecular networks in the blends. With increasing the applied stress, the Ract of OBC/silicone (70/30) sample increased from 4.1% to 23.7% due to the increased strain‐induced crystallization effect confirmed by the XRD (X‐ray diffraction) evaluation, while the recovery magnitude (Rrec) was maintained at the high level, close to 90%, without the hindrance of high load on the recovery due to high elasticity of silicone rubber. Besides, the crystallization‐driven contribution to the overall actuation magnitude was higher for the blends containing the higher amount of crystalline OBC elastomer in the blends. On behalf of silicone with outstanding thermal stability, high elastic behavior, and high hydrophobicity, OBC/silicone SMP blends with versatile properties could meet different applications.
Predicting crowdfunding project success based on backers' language preferences
Authors: Du Qianzhou , Li Jing , Du Yanqing , Wang G. Alan , Fan Weiguo
Published: June 2021

Project success is critical in the crowdfunding domain. Rather than the existing project‐centric prediction methods, we propose a novel backer‐centric prediction method. We identify each backer's preferences based on their pledge history and calculate the cosine similarity between backer's preferences and the project as each backer's persuasibility. Finally, we aggregate all the backers' persuasibility to predict project success. To validate our method, we crawled data on 183,886 projects launched during or before December 2014 on Kickstarter, a crowdfunding website. We selected 4,922 backers with a total of 442,793 pledges to identify backers' preferences. The results show that a backer is more likely to be persuaded by a project that is more similar to the backer's preferences. Our findings not only demonstrate the efficacy of backers' pledge history for predicting crowdfunding project success but also verify that a backer‐centric method can supplement the existing project‐centric approaches. Our model and findings enable crowdfunding platform agencies, fund‐seeking entrepreneurs, and investors to predict the success of a crowdfunding project.
Pitcher pot neourethral modification of ileal orthotopic neobladder achieves satisfactory long‐term functional and quality of life outcomes with low clean intermittent self‐catheterization rate
Authors: Jaipuria Jiten , Karimi Ahmad Mamoon , Singh Amitabh , Thapa Bikash Bikram , Gupta Shashikant , Sadasukhi Nripesh , Venkatasubramaniyan Manikandan , Pathak Preeti , Kasaraneni Priyatham , Khanna Ashish , Narayan Tushar Aditya , Sharma Girish , Rawal Sudhir
Published: June 2021

Objective

To describe a decade of our experience with a neo‐urethral modification of ileal orthotopic neobladder (pitcher pot ONB). Multiple investigators have reported similar modifications. However, long‐term longitudinal functional and quality of life (QOL) outcomes are lacking.

Methods

Prospectively maintained hospital registry for 238 ONB patients comprising a mix of open and robotic surgery cohorts from 2007 to 2017, and minimum of 2 years of follow‐up was retrospectively queried. QOL was evaluated using Bladder Cancer Index (BCI). Longitudinal trends of QOL domain parameters were analysed. List of perioperative variables that have a biologically plausible association with continence, potency, and post‐operative BCI QOL sexual, urinary, and bowel domain scores was drawn. Variables included surgery type, Body Mass Index (BMI), T and N stage, neurovascular bundle (NVB) sparing, age, and related pre‐operative BCI QOL domain score. Prognostic associations were analysed using multivariable Cox proportional hazard models and multilevel mixed‐effects modeling.

Results

The study comprised 80 and 158 patients who underwent open and robotic sandwich technique cohorts, respectively. Open surgery was associated with significantly higher “any” complication (40% vs 27%, P‐value .050) and “major” complication rate (15% vs 11%, P‐value .048). All patients developed a bladder capacity >400 cc with negligible post‐void residual urine, and all but one patient achieved spontaneous voiding by the end of study period (<1% clean intermittent self‐catheterization [CISC] rate). By 15 months, QOL for all three domains had recovered to reach a plateau. About 45% of patients achieved potency, and the median time to achieve day and night time continence was 9 and 12 months respectively. Lower age and NVBs spared during surgery were found to be significantly associated with the earlier achievement of potency, day and night time continence, as well as better urinary and sexual summary QOL scores.

Conclusions

Pitcher pot neobladder achieves satisfactory long‐term functional and QOL outcomes with negligible CISC rate. Results were superior with incremental nerves spared during surgery.
A practical guide to teaching withProteopedia
Authors: Castro Claudia , Johnson R. Jeremy , Kieffer Bruno , Means John A. , Taylor Ann , Telford Jason , Thompson Lynmarie K. , Sussman Joel L. , Prilusky Jaime , Theis Karsten
Published: June 2021

Proteopedia (proteopedia.org) is an open resource to explore the structure–function relationship of proteins and other biomolecules. This guide provides practical advice on how to incorporate Proteopedia into teaching the structure and function of proteins and other biomolecules. For 11 activities, we discuss desired outcomes, setting expectations, preparing students for the tasks, using resources within Proteopedia, and evaluating student work. We point out features of Proteopedia that make it especially suitable for teaching and give examples of how to avoid common pitfalls.
Does perceived cultural distance mediate the relationship between intergroup contact and support for refugee rights? A preliminary investigation
Authors: Firat Mustafa , Ataca Bilge
Published: June 2021

Despite the importance of cultural difference perceptions in intergroup relations, prior work has paid insufficient attention to the intersection between intergroup contact, perceived cultural distance, and policy support. Using cross‐sectional data from a community sample of 210 Turkish citizens, this study examined whether perceived cultural distance would mediate the link between intergroup contact and support for Syrian refugee rights. The results showed that perceived cultural distance mediated the relationship between contact quality, but not contact quantity, and support for refugee rights. This mediated relationship was further moderated by political orientation, such that perceived cultural distance mediated the role of contact quality in support for refugee rights only among participants with a leftist (vs. rightist) orientation. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings were discussed, along with a reflection on future research directions. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
In Situ Hybridizing Cu3(BTC)2 and Titania to Attain a High‐Performance Copper Catalyst: Dual‐Functional Role of Metal‐Support Interaction on the Activity and Selectivity
Authors: Yang Xu , Zhang Zhaoxia , Liu Wu , Liang Tengda , Dang Dai , Tian Xinlong
Published: June 2021

Production of value‐added chemicals sourced from biomass platform molecules has tremendous significance for sustainable chemical engineering. Herein, we reported a successful fabrication of a highly dispersed copper nanoparticles catalyst, CuO#TiO2, via a facile route of in situ homogeneously hybridizing the metal organic framework Cu3(BTC)2 with titania, and subsequent calcination. Distinctly from the copper catalysts prepared by the conventional routes (impregnation or co‐precipitation), this novel CuO#TiO2 catalyst has a small particle size (∼5 nm), easy‐reducible copper species, and weakened Lewis's acidity. As a result, it shows superior high activity (∼20.8 molFUR/molCu ⋅ h) as well as high furfural alcohol yield (>99 %) at 140 °C and 2 MPa for furfural hydrogenation. Moreover, the CuO#TiO2 can be conveniently regenerated by calcination at 200 °C in the air, with no appreciable changes in its structure or activity, a test that we repeated 8 times. Through comprehensive structure characterizations, it has revealed a significant interaction between the CuO and TiO2 originated from the in situ hybridization, which enables a bi‐functional effect on the resulted CuO#TiO2 catalyst: one is to generate more copper active sites by promoting the copper dispersion and reducibility; the other is to hinder the side reactions by decrease the support Lewis acidity. This work demonstrates a practical strategy to rationally design a highly efficient catalytic system in furfural hydrogenation catalysis.
Auf Kommando giftig
Authors: Tetsch Larissa
Published: June 2021

Kreuzblütler wie Senf, Kohl und Meerrettich schützen sich durch scharf schmeckende Verbindungen vor Fressfeinden. Dazu produzieren sie unschädliche Vorstufen, die erst bei einer Gewebeverletzung enzymatisch in ein giftiges Produkt umgewandelt werden. Die Larven des Meerretticherdflohs haben dieses erfolgreiche System gekapert. Die ungiftigen Vorstufen nehmen sie mit der Nahrung auf, das zur Aktivierung benötigte Enzym steuern sie selbst bei.
Quantencomputer als Superrechner der Zukunft
Authors: Weisenberger Pascal
Published: June 2021

Eine Technologie erwacht:
The influence of individual characteristics and non‐respiratory diseases on blood eosinophil count
Authors: Amaral Rita , Jacinto Tiago , Malinovschi Andrei , Janson Christer , Price David , Fonseca João A. , Alving Kjell
Published: June 2021

Background

Blood eosinophil (B‐Eos) count is an emerging biomarker in the management of respiratory disease but determinants of B‐Eos count besides respiratory disease are poorly described. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the influence of non‐respiratory diseases on B‐Eos count, in comparison to the effect on two other biomarkers: fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and C‐reactive protein (CRP), and to identify individual characteristics associated with B‐Eos count in healthy controls.

Methods

Children/adolescents (<18 years) and adults with complete B‐Eos data from the US National Health and Nutritional Examination Surveys 2005–2016 were included, and they were divided into having respiratory diseases (n = 3333 and n = 7,894, respectively) or not having respiratory disease (n = 8944 and n = 15,010, respectively). After excluding any respiratory disease, the association between B‐Eos count, FeNO or CRP, and non‐respiratory diseases was analyzed in multivariate models and multicollinearity was tested. After excluding also non‐respiratory diseases independently associated with B‐Eos count (giving healthy controls; 8944 children/adolescents and 5667 adults), the independent association between individual characteristics and B‐Eos count was analyzed.

Results

In adults, metabolic syndrome, heart disease or stroke was independently associated with higher B‐Eos count (12%, 13%, and 15%, respectively), whereas no associations were found with FeNO or CRP. In healthy controls, male sex or being obese was associated with higher B‐Eos counts, both in children/adolescents (15% and 3% higher, respectively) and adults (14% and 19% higher, respectively) (p < 0.01 all). A significant influence of race/ethnicity was also noted, and current smokers had 17% higher B‐Eos count than never smokers (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Non‐respiratory diseases influence B‐Eos count but not FeNO or CRP. Male sex, obesity, certain races/ethnicities, and current smoking are individual characteristics or exposures that are associated with higher B‐Eos counts. All these factors should be considered when using B‐Eos count in the management of respiratory disease.
The rate of estrogen receptor‐conversion associated with tumor progression in estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer patients following adjuvant Tamoxifen administration
Authors: Djahansouzi Sirus , Hanstein Bettina , Rein Daniel , Clees Michel , Rath Werner
Published: June 2021

Background

Hormone Receptor (HR)‐discordance between primary breast cancer and metastasis is a known biological phenomenon. Discordance studies usually comprise a heterogeneous group of HR‐positive and negative patients and allow for the comparison of changes in HR‐status from the primary to the recurrent disease. However, in a clinical setting, the rate of estrogen receptor‐conversion following endocrine therapy with agents such as Tamoxifen (TAM) in estrogen receptor‐positive cancers is of primary interest as opposed to total receptor discordance.

Aim

To investigate the rate of estrogen receptor‐conversion associated with tumor progression in estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer patients following adjuvant TAM administration and to compare the results with the meta‐analysis data of HR‐discordance studies.

Methods and Results

A retrospective double‐center review of biomarkers in 67 estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer patients who underwent TAM treatment in the adjuvant setting. The estrogen and progesterone receptor‐status were compared at the time of diagnosis and following relapse and the Disease‐free Survival, mean duration of TAM treatment as well as the operative, radiation, and cytotoxic therapies registered before TAM treatment, were recorded.

Initially, all patients were estrogen receptor‐positive. The average age at the time of diagnosis was 52.8 ± 12.4 years. After recurrence, only 47 patients (70.1%) were still estrogen receptor‐positive with a highly significant loss of estrogen receptor‐expression in 29.9% of cases. The mean duration of TAM treatment was 40.7 ± 19.9 months. 45 patients (i.e., 67.2%) progressed during the TAM treatment and the remaining 22 patients (32.8%) developed relapse after the TAM treatment had finished. Initially, there were 82.1% progesterone receptor‐positive and 17.9% progesterone receptor‐negative, but after relapse the progesterone receptor‐positive cases diminished significantly to 53.7%, showing a progesterone receptor‐loss of 28.4%.

Conclusion

The rate of estrogen receptor‐loss associated with tumor progression following TAM treatment is approximately 30%, which is of clinical relevance in order to evaluate further endocrine efficacy in these patients. This rate of receptor conversion is roughly 6‐13% higher compared to the recently published meta‐analysis data of discordance studies. This discrepancy could possibly be due to anti‐hormonal therapy with TAM accentuating receptor conversion.
Facile Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Spectral Characterization, Quantum Chemical Calculations, and Hirshfeld Surface Analysis of 5‐Chloro‐3‐Methoxy‐4‐Hydroxybenzaldehyde
Authors: Nagapandiselvi P.
Published: June 2021

This article deals with synthesis, growth, structure, and characterization of 5‐chloro‐3‐methoxy‐4‐hydroxybenzaldehyde (5CMHBA or 5‐chlorovanillin) single crystals. A facile one‐pot method is employed for the chlorination of vanillin using N‐chlorosuccinimide. After chlorination, the single crystals of 5CMHBA are grown by slow evaporation solution growth technique. Grown crystals are subjected to single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SXRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), and Thermogravimetric‐Differential Thermal Analysis (TG‐DTA). 5CMHBA crystallizes in the tetragonal crystal system with the space group P42/n. Vibrational characteristics are studied using FTIR. Further, thermal studies of the crystal are carried out using simultaneous TG‐DTA thermal analyzer. The molecular structure and its intermolecular interactions are studied by applying time–dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) using Gaussian 09 program and Hirshfeld surface analysis. A lesser energy gap of the 5CMHBA compared to that of vanillin shows the high reactivity of the molecule. Dipole moment, polarizability, and hyper‐polarizability are calculated in the molecular level and found to have greater polarizability than vanillin and also higher in order than that of standard urea molecule. This reveals the suitability of the molecule for nonlinear optical applications. The intermolecular interactions and porosity are analyzed and compared with vanillin and its polymorphs by Hirshfeld surface analysis.
Effect of tillers on corn yield: Exploring trait plasticity potential in unpredictable environments
Authors: Veenstra Rachel L. , Messina Carlos D. , Berning Dan , Haag Lucas A. , Carter Paul , Hefley Trevor J. , Prasad P.V. Vara , Ciampitti Ignacio A.
Published: June 2021

Long‐term selection in maize (Zea mays L.) favored single‐stalked phenotypes limiting vegetative growth. However, reduced plant densities create conducive environments to the expression of vegetative branches called tillers. Tiller expression has motivated discussions about its yield effect in variable environments, but tiller research is lacking for modern corn genotypes. The objectives of this study were to (a) quantify the relative importance of management, environment, and interactions on the yield effect of tiller expression for two modern genotypes; (b) understand effects of observed tiller density, plant density, and their interaction on yield; and (c) identify key environmental determinants of yield response to tiller density in modern genotypes. In 10 environmentally diverse site‐years across Kansas, tiller presence and removal were evaluated in two commercial corn hybrids (P0657AM and P0805AM) across three target plant density levels (25,000, 42,000, and 60,000 plants ha−1). Yields were increased or unaffected by greater plant densities and tiller presence within site‐years. Environments varied in yield responsiveness to tiller density, but fine‐tuning plant density was needed to maximize yields. Sites with yields most responsive to tiller density were characterized by good soil properties and photothermal quotient values (e.g., soils with high organic matter and climates with greater solar radiation and cooler temperatures). Favorable growing conditions can be exploited by plasticity traits such as tillering in unpredictable environments with annually variable optimum plant densities while limiting potential yield loss and producer risk due to disproportionate plant density.