bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical properties of two-dimensional black phosphorus
Authors: Huang Shen-Yang , Zhang Guo-Wei , Wang Fan-Jie , Lei Yu-Chen , Yan Hu-Gen ,   Department of Physics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China,   Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710129, China
Published: January 2021

Recently, black phosphorus (BP), an emerging layered two-dimensional (2D) material, has aroused much research interest. Distinguished from most of other 2D materials, BP is always a direct bandgap semiconductor regardless of the thickness, with the bandgap ranging from 0.3 eV (bulk) to 1.7 eV (monolayer), which is just fill the gap in the bandgap between graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) in this frequency range. Besides, the BP exhibits many intriguing properties, such as high carrier mobility, highly tunable and anisotropic physical properties, which render the BP another star 2D material following graphene and TMDCs. In this review, we mainly focus on the advances in the optical properties of 2D BP, with the content covering the intrinsic optical properties and external perturbation effects on optical properties. Regarding the intrinsic optical properties, we introduce the anisotropic and layer-dependent optical absorption from interband transitions, the layer-dependent exciton binding energy and exciton absorption, visible-to-infrared photoluminescence, and stability of absorption and photoluminescence. As for external perturbation effects on optical properties, we introduce in-plane uniaxial and biaxial strain effects, gate-induced quantum confined Franz-Keldysh effect and Burstein-Moss effect. And finally we give a brief summary and outlook, pointing out some several interesting and important issues of BP, which need further studying urgently such as hyperbolic plasmons, intersubband transitions, optical properties in heterostructures and twist angle moiré superlattice and so on. This review gives an overview of the optical properties of BP and is expected to arouse the interest in further studying the BP.
Edith Stein: entre la psicología de William Stern y la fenomenología de Edmund Husserl
Authors:   Universidad Federal de Ouro Preto-UFOP-MG (Brasil), Souza Ferreira Danilo
Published: January 2021

En este artículo traemos una breve biografía de Edith Stein. Tal trabajo se justifica por dos razones: la primera es la presentación de la filósofa, que es poco conocida por la academia latinoamericana, y la segunda razón es la relación íntima entre su vida y los acontecimientos históricos cruciales que marcaron la primera mitad del siglo XX, principalmente la historia de Alemania en el período moderno, así como la Primera Guerra Mundial, la República de Weimar y el surgimiento del nazismo en Alemania, además de la aparición de corrientes teóricas como la fenomenología. Buscaremos en particular, en este texto, describir las influencias que Stein ha recibido del psicólogo William Stern, miembro de la escuela y profesor de Wurzburg en Breslau, y del fenomenólogo Edmund Husserl, quien impartió clases de filosofía en Gotinga, y con quien desarrolló su reflexión sobre el papel de la empatía, como elemento constitutivo de la relación entre los individuos, así como su relación con la historia.
Encrucijada Diálogo de realismo mágico entre Edith Stein, Teresa de Jesús y Gabriela Mistral
Authors:   Centro UC Estudios Interdisciplinarios en Edith Stein, Cortés Saide
Published: January 2021

En 2019, el grupo "mística y bellas artes", del Centro UC de Estudios interdisciplinarios en Edith Stein, liderado por la académica Saide Cortés, Profesora emérita de la Facultad de Letras UC, estudió la biografía y correlación de dos autoras con Edith Stein, Teresa de Jesús y Gabriela Mistral. La relación de Stein con Teresa de Jesús está bien estudiada, porque la misma filósofa la reconoce como maestra en el despliegue de su fe católica y de su propia espiritualidad carmelita. No obstante, el cruce dialógico con Gabriela Mistral, poeta chilena, aparece en una novedad singular, sin forzar contenidos ni formas, en la espiritualidad de la cruz y de la fe, del lenguaje religioso que les ayuda a expresar lo más hondo del alma humana. Esta exploración, dio lugar a una obra colaborativa que recoge las reflexiones de los integrantes del grupo, y que toma forma en el género de la fantasía en un realismo mágico. Según Saide Cortés, "Encrucijada es sueño compartido desde las sombras. Tres mujeres encontradas en el camino atemporal de la poesía; desgarradas de amor, búsqueda, dolor y muerte redentora. Un cielo sin estrellas, proyecta una Cruz que guía a las caminantes". Es así como aparecen cuatro personajes, tres protagonistas mujeres: Gabriela Mistral, Teresa de Jesús, Edith Stein, que junto a una Voz, que articula un relato, sostienen un diálogo, a través de un camino pedregoso, a veces incoherente, alegórico y balbuceante. El contenido temático, a veces común, hacen posible este encuentro de tres caminos en la noche de sus vidas. En el X Simposio steiniano, se hizo una lectura dramatizada de esta obra para todos los participantes. Hasta ahora inédita, se publica en Steiniana, en coherencia tanto con el talante dialogal de Edith Stein, como con su indagación en la escritura teatral y poética.
Did state‐mandated restrictions on sugar‐sweetened drinks in California high schools increase soda purchases in school neighborhoods?
Authors: Kiesel Kristin , Ji Mengxin
Published: January 2021

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of restrictions on sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs) in schools as a policy approach aimed at reversing the upward trend in obesity among adolescents. Specifically, we test if the implementation of SB 965 in California high schools led to detectable compensation effects outside of school by estimating changes in soda purchases observed in store‐level scanner data. Our unique data and identification strategy address data limitations of previously published studies, and our reported results strengthen the notion that preferences for unhealthy foods will persist even after their availability is restricted in select environments.
Infected liver cysts resulting from ascending cholangitis and cancer of the ampulla of Vater: A case report
Authors: Hsu Ming‐Tse , Tsai Tsung‐Jung , Chen Chi‐Yi , Chiang Ching‐Chung , Chen Chien‐Chin
Published: January 2021

Infected liver cysts may have a unique etiology and require further workup. Generally, large cyst is easy to be symptomatic. In contrast, smaller cyst with infection in our case is associated with ampullar cancer of Vater without typical manifestations of jaundice, body weight loss, and pancreatitis. We presented the case of a 61‐year‐old man with infected liver cysts, which is confirmed by abdominal computer tomography and liver cysts drainage with bacterial culture. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography revealed a swollen papilla of Vater and a dilated common bile duct. Biopsy confirmed adenocarcinoma of the ampulla of Vater. Further surgical pathology revealed communication of bile duct with liver cysts and no evidence of tumor invasion to pancreatic duct and common bile duct. The infected liver cysts may result from ascending cholangitis which is secondary to ampullar cancer. The patient underwent the Whipple procedure, unroofing of the right‐side liver cyst, and partial hepatectomy without complications. There is no recurrence of infected liver cyst and cancer till now after follow‐up for 3 years. Infected liver cysts are rarely associated with ampullar cancer. Early diagnosis and successful resection of early stage ampullary neoplasm ensure favorable outcomes.
Segmented Polyurethane Elastomers with Mechanochromic and Self‐Strengthening Functions
Authors: Seshimo Kota , Sakai Hio , Watabe Takuma , Aoki Daisuke , Sugita Hajime , Mikami Koichiro , Mao Yuchen , Ishigami Akira , Nishitsuji Shotaro , Kurose Takashi , Ito Hiroshi , Otsuka Hideyuki
Published: January 2021

Mechanochromic elastomers that exhibit force‐induced cross‐linking reactions in the bulk state are introduced. The synthesis of segmented polyurethanes (SPUs) that contain difluorenylsuccinonitrile (DFSN) moieties in the main chain and methacryloyl groups in the side chains was carried out. DFSN was selected as the mechanophore because it dissociates under mechanical stimuli to form pink cyanofluorene (CF) radicals, which can also initiate the radical polymerization of methacrylate monomers. The obtained elastomers generated CF radicals and changed color by compression or extension; they also became insoluble due to the mechanically induced cross‐linking reactions. Additionally, an SPU containing diphenylmethane units also exhibited highly sensitive mechanofluorescence. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate damage detection ability and changes in the mechanical properties of bulk elastomers induced by simple compression or extension.
Controllable self‐assembly from homonuclear Mn (II)‐MOF to heteronuclear Mn (II)‐K(I)‐MOF by alkali‐regulation: A novel mode of structural and luminescent regulation for off–on sensing ascorbic acid
Authors: Wu Shuangyan , Song Zhenfeng , Zhu Mingchang , Zhang Ying , Yao Wei , Kosinova Marina , Fedin Vladimir P. , Chen Jiaqi , Gao Enjun
Published: January 2021

Luminescent metal‐organic frameworks (LMOFs) as sensors with “turn‐on” detecting ability have attracted much attention and remain challenging yet. Herein, two novel LMOFs from homonuclear Mn (II)‐MOF (1) to heteronuclear Mn (II)‐K(I)‐MOF (2) have been synthesized directionally only by alkali regulation. Through the introduction of K(I), heteronuclear 2 exhibits a porous reticulated network with 1D open channels. Both 1 and 2 are highly emissive and show great sensitivity and selectivity, ultrafast response time, and excellent recyclability for “off–on” ascorbic acid sensing. Significantly, the highly permeable channels in 2 allow easy host–guest interaction and contribute to lower detection limit than 1. The controllable assembly of 1 and 2 realizes a novel mode of structure and luminescence tunability, which is crucial for discovering luminescent materials with high‐performance for real‐time detection applications.
10 months in: Telemental health for children and adolescents during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Walters Anne S.
Published: January 2021

Telehealth is a reality for health care professionals in the current pandemic‐afflicted world. Defined as real‐time interactive videoconferencing, telehealth involves the provider and patient using technology for treatment when they cannot meet in person. Even prior to the pandemic, the number of users of telehealth had grown exponentially. It is predicted to reach 266.8 billion by 2026, an increase from 49.8 billion in 2018 (Child Mind Institute 2020).
Myocardial rupture after percutaneous coronary intervention of an unstable RCA lesion in myocardial infarction and concomitant stroke treated with intravenous fibrinolytic agents: A case report
Authors: Bay Benjamin , Waldeyer Christoph , Rimmele Leander , Blankenberg Stefan , Clemmensen Peter
Published: January 2021

Myocardial rupture after thrombolysis is an often fatal consequence. For patients with myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke within a short timeframe, a catheter‐based therapy to retrieve emboli poses a valid therapeutic option in case of a treatment target in CT‐Angiography.
Does this patient have jugular venous distension? Vein finder‐enhanced assessment of jugular venous pressure
Authors: Bricker Dean
Published: January 2021

Assessing jugular venous pressure (JVP) may be challenging yet useful for establishing the bedside diagnosis of congestive heart failure. Vein finder lights illuminate superficial veins and thus can improve visualization of the external jugular vein.
A case report on a large, peduncular intra‐abdominal hepatocellular carcinoma extending into the retroperitoneum
Authors: Omer Dana M. , Dozier Jordan , Cao Zongxian , Zhu Hongfa , McCain Donald A.
Published: January 2021

Key Clinical Message

Here, we discuss a relatively uncommon presentation of a hepatocellular carcinoma and discuss its preoperative planning and surgical intervention required to reach complete resection.
Nucleophilic Alkoxylations of Unactivated Alkyl Olefins and α‐Methyl Styrene by Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Seyfert Fabienne , Mitha Mathis , Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim
Published: January 2021

N,N‐diisobutylaminophenyl‐phenothiazine is a strongly reducing catalyst that allows – for the first time – the photoredox catalytic addition of alcohols to alkyl olefins as non‐activated substrates to products with Markovnikov orientation. The irradiation at 365 nm does not require any additional reagent. Using α‐methyl styrene as activated substrate we additionally show that this photoredox catalytic method tolerates other functional groups, including allyl, alkynyl, cyanide, and even acid‐labile Boc groups within the substrate scope.
Improving accuracy of gaze‐control tools: Design recommendations for optimum position, sizes, and spacing of interactive objects
Authors: Niu Ya‐feng , Zuo Hong‐rui , Yang Xin , Xue Cheng‐qi , Peng Ning‐yue , Zhou Lei , Zhou Xiao‐zhou , Jin Tao
Published: January 2021

To investigate a suitable design of interactive objects in the fixation‐triggered eye‐control interface, this study conducted two ergonomic experiments based on the location of an object, area of the object, and distance between adjacent objects. Experiment 1 investigated the priority distribution of different regions and recommended values of object sizes in different regions. The results showed that middle‐middle (MM) area is the optimal area, while middle‐left (ML) area, middle‐right (MR) area, and upper‐left (UL) area are suboptimal areas, and the remaining are general areas. The recommended minimum sizes for the optimal area, suboptimal area, and general area are 2.636° (200 px on the screen of a 1920 px × 1080 px 14 inch monitor), 2.978° (225 px on the screen of a 1920 px × 1080 px 14 inch monitor) and 3.322° (250 px on the screen of a 1920 px × 1080 px 14‐inch monitor), respectively. Experiment 2 conducted ergonomic experiments of different distances between adjacent objects in horizontal and vertical distributions. The results showed that the appropriate setting of the distribution and size of the objects showed no significant difference between different levels of spacing on the trigger accuracy rate and task completion time. Further, 1.032° (75 px on the screen of a 1920 px × 1080 px 14‐inch monitor) could be recommended as the most suitable spacing. According to the conclusions of Experiments 1 and 2, an optimized eye‐control interface and the NASA‐TLX scale were used to verify the validity and scientificity of the experimental results. The conclusions can be employed to improve the interaction efficiency of the eye‐control system and user experience and expand the application field of eye control.
Endometriosis and malignancy: The intriguing relationship
Authors: Dahiya Alka , Sebastian Ajit , Thomas Anitha , George Rachel , Thomas Vinotha , Peedicayil Abraham
Published: January 2021

Objective

To determine the prevalence and study the association of ovarian, uterine, and breast cancers with endometriosis.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of all women with a tissue‐proven diagnosis of endometriosis postoperatively in a tertiary care hospital between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2019, was conducted to determine the prevalence of coexistent malignancy. Patient details were obtained from electronic clinical records. Univariate analysis followed by multivariate analysis was done to find independent risk factors associated with malignancy.

Results

Out of 800 patients, 104 (13.0%) were found to have coexistent malignancy: ovarian (50, 6.2%); endometrial (33, 4.1%); synchronous ovarian and endometrial (7, 0.9%); and breast (14, 1.8%). Increasing age (odds ratio [OR] 1.13; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–1.16), higher levels of cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) (OR 1.002; 95% CI 1.001–1.005), postmenopausal status (OR 6.2; 95% CI 2.0–19.2), duration of endometriosis over 5 years (OR 4.7; 95% CI 2.5–9.0), and endometriomas larger than 8 cm (area under the curve 0.83) were predictive of coexistent malignancy.

Conclusion

Endometriosis is associated with an increased risk of ovarian, endometrial, and breast malignancy. Increasing age, postmenopausal status, higher levels of CA 125, larger endometrioma, and long‐standing disease are predictive risk factors.
Dendritic cell biocompatibility of ether‐based urethane films
Authors: Safina Ingrid , Alghazali Karrer M. , Childress Luke , Griffin Christopher , Hashoosh Ahmed , Kannarpady Ganesh , Watanabe Fumiya , Bourdo Shawn E. , Dings Ruud P.M. , Biris Alexandru S. , Vang Kieng Bao
Published: January 2021

The use of synthetic materials for biomedical applications is ever expanding. One of the major requirements for these materials is biocompatibility, which includes prevention of immune system responses. Due to the inherent complexity of their structural composition, the polyurethane (PU) family of polymers is being used in a variety of medical applications, from soft and hard tissue scaffolds to intricate coatings on implantable devices. Herein, we investigated whether two polymer materials, D3 and D7, induced an immune response, measured by their effects on a dendritic cell (DC) line, JAWS II. Using a lactate dehydrogenase cytotoxicity assay and Annexin V/PI staining, we found that the PU materials did not induce cytotoxicity in DC cells. Using confocal microscopy, we also showed that the materials did not induce activation or maturation, as compared to positive controls. This was confirmed by looking at various markers, CD80, CD86, MHC class I, and MHC class II, via flow cytometry. Overall, the results indicated that the investigated PU films are biocompatible in terms of immunotoxicology and immunogenicity and show great promise for use in regenerative medicine.
How do migration and remittances affect inequality? A case study of Mexico
Authors: Kóczán Zsóka , Loyola Franz
Published: January 2021

The poverty‐reducing effects of remittances have been well documented; however, their effects on inequality are less clear. This paper examines the impact of remittances on inequality in Mexico using household‐level information on the receiving side. It hopes to speak to their insurance role by examining how remittances are affected by domestic and external crises: the 1994 Mexican peso crisis and the global financial crisis. We find that remittances lower inequality and that they become more pro‐poor over time. This also strengthens their insurance effects, mitigating some of the negative impact of shocks on the poorest.
Characterization of defined sulfated heparin‐like oligosaccharides by electrospray ionization ion trap mass spectrometry
Authors: Lemmnitzer Katharina , Köhling Sebastian , Freyse Joanna , Rademann Jörg , Schiller Jürgen
Published: January 2021

Glycosaminoglycans (GAG) as long, unbranched polysaccharides are major components of the extracellular matrix. Many studies provided additional evidence of a specific binding between mediators and sulfated GAG, at which the sulfation code—which means the number and positions of sulfate groups along the polysaccharide chain—plays an important role.

GAG from natural sources are very inhomogeneous regarding their sulfation patterns and molecular weight. Additionally, there is a high risk of contamination. This results in a growing interest in the careful characterization of native GAG and the synthesis of artificial GAG. Additionally, chemically oversulfated GAG analogues show many favorable properties. However, the structural characterization of these carbohydrates by mass spectrometry remains challenging. One significant problem is the sulfate loss during the ionization, which increases with the number of sulfate residues.

We used the sulfated pentasaccharide fondaparinux as model substance to optimize sample preparation and measurement conditions, compared different established desalination methods and already existing protocols for sulfated oligosaccharides, and investigated their impact on the quality of the mass spectra. After optimization of the measurement conditions, we could establish a gentle and fast protocol for the mass spectrometry characterization of (fully) sulfated, artificial GAG‐like oligosaccharides with minimized sulfate loss in the positive and negative ion mode. Here, the negative ion mode was more sensitive in comparison with the positive one, and fondaparinux species with sulfate loss were not detectable under the optimized conditions in the positive ion mode.
Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus and extracellular vesicles
Authors: Barrett Lindsey , Dai Lu , Wang Shanzhi , Qin Zhiqiang
Published: January 2021

Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV) represents the etiological agent for several human malignancies, including Kaposi's Sarcoma (KS), primary effusion lymphoma (PEL), and multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD), which develop mainly in immunocompromised patients. KSHV has established many strategies to hijack and thwart the host's immune responses, including through the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs represent a significant mode of intercellular communication as they carry a variety of molecules that can be delivered from cell‐to‐cell. EVs are now recognized as one of the major players in immune system development and function during both innate and adaptive immune responses. In the current mini‐review, we summarize recent findings on how KSHV utilizes EVs to create favorable environments for viral spread and persistence while evading immune responses. We also discuss the limitations and unanswered questions in this field and the potential areas for related immunotherapies.
Raman spectroscopy is sensitive to biochemical changes related to various cartilage injuries
Authors: Shaikh Rubina , Nippolainen Ervin , Virtanen Vesa , Torniainen Jari , Rieppo Lassi , Saarakkala Simo , Afara Isaac O. , Töyräs Juha
Published: January 2021

Raman spectroscopy is promising in vivo tool in various biomedical applications; moreover, in recent years, its use for characterizing articular cartilage degeneration has been developing. It has also shown potential for scoring the severity of cartilage lesions, which could be useful in determining the optimal treatment strategy during cartilage repair surgery. However, the effect of different cartilage injury types on Raman spectra is unknown. This study aims to investigate the potential of Raman spectroscopy for detecting changes in cartilage due to different injury types. Artificial injuries were induced in cartilage samples using established mechanical and enzymatic approaches to mimic trauma‐induced and natural degeneration. Mechanical damage was induced using surface abrasion (ABR, n = 12) or impact loading (IMP, n = 12), while enzymatic damage was induced using three different treatments: 30 min trypsin digestion (T30, n = 12), 90 min collagenase digestion (C90, n = 12), and 24 h collagenase digestion (C24, n = 12). Raman spectra were obtained from all specimens, and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) was used to distinguish cartilage injury types from their respective controls. PLS‐DA cross‐validation accuracies were higher for C24 (88%) and IMP (79%) than for C90 (67%), T30 (63%), and ABR (58%) groups. This study indicates that Raman spectroscopy, combined with multivariate analysis, can discern different cartilage injury types. This knowledge could be useful in clinical decision‐making, for example, selecting the optimal treatment remedy during cartilage repair surgery.
Ternary CdS1–xSexnanocrystals formed in Cd‐doped As–Se–S films due to photoenhanced diffusion during micro‐Raman measurement
Authors: Azhniuk Yuriy M. , Dzhagan Volodymyr M. , Solonenko Dmytro , Lopushansky Vasyl V. , Loya Vasyl Y. , Kryshenik Volodymyr M. , Voynarovych Ivan M. , Gomonnai Alexander V. , Zahn Dietrich R.T.
Published: January 2021

Micro‐Raman spectra of amorphous As–Se–S:Cd films prepared by thermal evaporation on silicon and silicate glass substrates measured at different laser power densities show the formation of CdS1–xSexnanocrystals in the As–Se–S:Cd film under laser beam illumination due to a photoinduced material transfer and photoenhanced diffusion in the laser spot area. The material transfer and the photoenhanced diffusion are caused by a non‐thermal interaction of light with the amorphous As–Se–S:Cd films. The chemical composition of the CdS1–xSexnanocrystals can be determined from the difference of the CdSe‐like and CdS‐like LO phonon wavenumbers in the Raman spectra. The photoluminescence peak energies are in agreement with the CdS1–xSexcomposition, with the average nanocrystal size being somewhat above the exciton Bohr radius.
A highly efficient nanoscale tapioca starch prepared by high‐speed jet for Cu2+ removal in simulated industrial effluent
Authors: Lian Fengli , Huang Xiaobing , Lin Yanyun , Xia Wen , Fu Tiaokun , Wang Fei , He Dongning , Zhou Wei , Li Jihua
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Nanoscale tapioca starch (NTS) was successfully developed by high‐speed jet in our previous study. In this study, the adsorption capacity of Cu2+ onto NTS was further discussed. The optimal adsorption conditions (pH, contact time, contact temperature, initial Cu2+ concentration, and adsorbent concentration), adsorption kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamic were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The results showed that NTS exhibited excellent performance in adsorption of Cu2+, with adsorption capacities of 122.31 mg g−1 for Cu2+ (pH 7, 0.04 g L−1, 0.2 g L−1, 313.15 K and 10 min). The pseudo‐second‐order and Langmuir isotherms models could be used to explain the adsorption kinetics and adsorption equilibrium, respectively. The thermodynamic results showed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic with an increase in entropy. Cu2+ was adsorbed onto NTS, which was confirmed by energy dispersive spectrometry analysis.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicated that NTS might be an effective, environment‐friendly and renewable bio‐resource adsorbent for removing heavy metals in industrial effluent. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Exponential stabilization of laminated beams with history memories
Authors: Feng B. , Almeida Júnior D. S. , Ramos A. J. A.
Published: January 2021

In this paper we consider laminated beams modelled from the well established Timoshenko system, which is a structure given by two identical layers uniform on top of each other, taking into account that an adhesive of small thickness is bonding the two surfaces and produces an interfacial slip. By using semi‐group approach, we prove the global well‐posedness of the system when a viscoelastic dissipation acts on the three equations. In addition, we prove that the dissipation through memory terms is strong enough to get exponential decay of the system without the condition of equal wave speeds.
Impaired Inhibitory Control of Saccadic Eye Movements in Cervical Dystonia: An Eye‐Tracking Study
Authors: Carbone Federico , Ellmerer Philipp , Ritter Marcel , Spielberger Sabine , Mahlknecht Philipp , Hametner Eva , Hussl Anna , Hotter Anna , Granata Roberta , Seppi Klaus , Boesch Sylvia , Poewe Werner , Djamshidian Atbin
Published: January 2021

Background

The pathophysiology of cervical dystonia is still unclear. Recent evidence points toward a network disorder affecting several brain areas. The objective of this study was to assess the saccadic inhibition as a marker of corticostriatal function in cervical dystonia.

Methods

We recruited 31 cervical dystonia patients and 17 matched healthy controls. Subjects performed an overlap prosaccade, an antisaccade, and a countermanding task on an eye tracker to assess automatic visual response and response inhibition.

Results

Cervical dystonia patients made more premature saccades (P = 0.041) in the overlap prosaccade task and more directional errors in the antisaccade task (P = 0.011) and had a higher rate of failed inhibition in the countermanding task (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

The results suggest altered saccadic inhibition in cervical dystonia, possibly as a consequence of dysfunctional corticostriatal networks. Further studies are warranted to confirm whether these abnormalities are affected by the available therapies and whether this type of impairment is found in other focal dystonias. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Foldable solar cells: Structure design and flexible materials
Authors: Li Pengfei , Wang Weiyan , Li Hongjiang , Miao Renjie , Feng Xuan , Qian Lei , Song Weijie
Published: January 2021

Foldable solar cells, with the advantages of size compactness and shape transformation, have promising applications as power sources in wearable and portable electronics, building and vehicle integrated photovoltaics. However, in contrast to mild bending with curvature radius of several millimeters, folding generates the crease with extreme curvature radius of sub‐millimeter, resulting in the appearance of large strain and stress. As a result, it is highly challenging to realize robustly foldable and highly efficient solar cells. Here, we summarize the recent progress on the photovoltaic performance and mechanical robustness of foldable solar cells. The key requirements to construct highly foldable solar cells, including structure design based on tuning the neutral axis plane, and adopting flexible alternatives including substrates, transparent electrodes and absorbers, are intensively discussed. In the end, some perspectives for the future development of foldable solar cells, especially the standard folding procedure, improvement in the folding endurance through revealing failure mechanism, are provided.
rdss: An R package to facilitate the use of Murail et al.'s (1999) approach of sex estimation in past populations
Authors: Santos Frédéric
Published: January 2021

Although several reliable methods of sex estimation—usually based on the os coxae—do exist, they cannot always be applied on fragmented archeological material, so that sex must be estimated using other skeletal parts. In 1999, Murail and co‐authors proposed an approach, which they called “secondary sex diagnosis,” consisting in using those individuals whose pelvic sex could be estimated as a reference sample for the extrapelvic sex estimation of the other individuals. The computational use of this approach may be cumbersome when dealing with very fragmented material and implies many heavily repetitive tasks if performed manually. rdss is an R package with a graphical user interface that facilitates all the steps of the so‐called secondary sex diagnosis and allows an easy assessment of the quality and relevance of the statistical models built and used during this process. In the present article, a small subset of the freely available online Goldman Data Set is used to illustrate the use of this package on real osteometric data, and some methodological caveats that regularly arise with archeological samples are discussed. Finally, some terminological elements are clarified or modified from the seminal publication. Further technical documentation about rdss, including a video tutorial, is available online.
A comprehensive review on cellulose nanocrystals and cellulose nanofibers: Pretreatment, preparation, and characterization
Authors: Nagarajan K. J. , Ramanujam N. R. , Sanjay M. R. , Siengchin Suchart. , Surya Rajan B. , Sathick Basha K. , Madhu P. , Raghav G. R.
Published: January 2021

Crafting ecological materials from green resources is posing a significant challenge for the researchers and scientists around the globe and has resulted in the development of nanocellulose materials, which has paved the way for enriching the basic knowledge and many opportunities on developing bio‐based materials. This has augmented the utilization of carbohydrate‐based organic materials and successfully replacing conventional nonrenewable materials. Cellulose nanomaterials (CNMs) belonging to the newer emerging field of nanomaterials are finding increasing interest among the investigators owing to their environmentally sustainable characteristics like biodegradability, biocompatibility, and potential availability in abundance at a cheaper price. The present review article intends to provide a detailed insight about the advancements and various challenges postured in the field of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and cellulose nanofibers (CNFs). The article further discusses about different cellulose fiber extraction sources and their methods, purification processes employed, various sample preparation and drying techniques used for CNCs and CNFs. The article also outlines the various characterization methods practiced for scrutinizing CNCs and CNFs when used in polymer matrix composites. Finally, the benefits of using the CNMs in several potential applications such as paper, oil and gas industries, food packaging and structural sectors, conductive ink and water purification areas, medical and printed electronic fields are highlighted in this extensively reviewed article.
Costs of utility‐scale photovoltaic systems integration in the future Italian energy scenarios
Authors: Veronese Elisa , Prina Matteo Giacomo , Berizzi Alberto , Moser David , Manzolini Giampaolo
Published: January 2021

This study aims at introducing a new metric to evaluate the production costs of photovoltaic plants that includes the impacts of adding them in the existing energy system. In other words, the levelized cost of electricity concept is enlarged to incorporate the so‐called integration costs. They consider the costs of reinforcing the grid infrastructure to accept the increase of variable renewable sources production and the effects on the operating conditions of the existing fossil fuel power plants. These costs are applied to the utility‐scale photovoltaic plants to analyse how their market parity and profitability would change in the future if a more systematic approach is used to evaluate their production costs. Moreover, a bottom‐up energy system model performing an operational optimization is introduced and coupled with a genetic algorithm to perform the expansion capacity optimization. This model is used to study the effects on the utility‐scale photovoltaic plants' dispatchability if the integration costs are included. The Italian energy system and photovoltaic market projected to the year 2030 are taken as reference. The results of the market parity highlight that its achievement will not be compromised when the integration costs are considered, mainly thanks to the strong decrease of the investment costs expected in the future years. The results of the optimization underline that the future role of photovoltaic plants in the energy mix with low CO2 emissions will not be significantly affected, even when these additional costs are applied as annual costs.
Assessment of the biocontrol potential of natural enemies against psyllid populations in a pear tree orchard during spring
Authors: Gajski Domagoj , Pekár Stano
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Modern pest control management systems are based on the support of naturally occurring arthropod predators, as it has been shown that such predators offer an important ecosystem service. However, most naturally occurring arthropod predators are generalists (euryphagous). Their role in the biological control of specific pests has been recognized but remains poorly studied. Here, we focused on the naturally occurring arthropod predators of psyllids – the main insect pest of pear trees. We investigated the abundance of psyllids and all of their potential enemies in an abandoned pear orchard on a weekly basis from early spring to early summer. In addition, employing polymerase chain reaction diagnostics and specific primers, we investigated the predation rate on psyllids in all predators collected.

RESULTS

We found four predatory groups: spiders were the most abundant (60%, N = 756), followed by coccinellid beetles, anthocorid bugs and cantharid beetles. Anthocorids and spiders had the highest predation rates among the predatory groups. Among spiders, >50% of foliage‐dwelling spiders (belonging to the genera Philodromus and Clubiona; N = 206) were positive for psyllids and showed a numerical response to the abundance of psyllids.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that foliage‐dwelling spiders are, of the four groups, the most important natural enemies of psyllids on pear trees during spring in Central Europe, as they outnumber specialized Anthocoris bugs. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Perspective: common errors in dose–response analysis and how to avoid them
Authors: Keshtkar Eshagh , Kudsk Per , Mesgaran Mohsen B
Published: January 2021

Dose–response experiments are conducted to determine the toxicity of chemicals on organisms. The relationship between dose and response is described by different statistical models. The four‐parameter log‐logistic model is widely used in pesticide sciences to derive biologically relevant parameters such as ED50 and resistance index (RI). However, there are some common errors associated with the calculation of ED50 and RI that can lead to erroneous conclusions. Here we discuss five common errors and propose guidance to avoid them. We suggest (i) all response curves must be fitted simultaneously to allow for proper comparison of parameters across curves, (ii) in the case of nonparallel curves absolute ED50 must be used instead of relative ED50, (iii) standard errors or confidence intervals of the parameters must be reported, (iv) the e parameter in asymmetrical models is not equal to ED50 and hence absolute ED50 must be estimated, and (v) when the four‐parameter log‐logistic model returns a negative value for the lower asymptote, which is biologically meaningless in most cases, the model should be reduced to its three‐parameter version or other types of model should be applied. The mixed‐effects model and the meta‐analytic approach are suggested as appropriate to average the parameters across repeated dose–response experiments. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
An integrated Qual/Quan strategy for ganglioside lipidomics using high‐resolution mass spectrometry and Skyline software
Authors: Ranasinghe Asoka , Ciccimaro Eugene , D’Arienzo Celia , Olah Timothy V. , Ponath Paul , Hnatyshyn Serhiy
Published: January 2021

Rationale

Gangliosides (GS) are attractive targets in biomarker discovery because of their physiological significance in numerous human diseases including certain cancers and developmental and metabolic disorders. The robust strategy described here enables the profiling of numerous GS while obtaining quantitative data of exploratory biomarkers present in human plasma and whole blood.

Method

The GS from human blood, human plasma, and several cell lines were extracted using a mixture of methanol and isopropanol/0.1% formic acid followed by direct analysis of the supernatant. The simultaneous Qualitative and Quantitative (Qual/Quan) approach involves micro flow (20 μL/min) high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC)/high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and post‐acquisition data processing with Skyline software for profiling numerous GS in biological matrices. The quantitative assay involves reverse‐phase liquid chromatography/HRMS and calibration curves using commercially available GS.

Results

Protein precipitation resulted in ~60%–80% GS recovery from biological matrices. Direct injection of the extract allowed for quantification of targeted GS in human blood, plasma, and cancer cell lines. The lower limit of detection for the target analytes, GM1, GT1, GD1, spiked into 1% BSA/PBS, ranged from 1 to 10 ng/mL. Human lung cancer cell lines contained variable amounts (1–130 ng/mL) of soluble Fuc‐GM1 analogs, potential biomarkers of lung cancer.

Conclusions

A combination of simple extraction and micro‐HPLC/HRMS allowed for quantification of GS in human serum and whole blood. Integration of HRMS with Skyline allowed for GS profiling in the same samples using post‐acquisition HRMS data without the need for reanalysis. The strategy presented here is expected to play an important role in profiling exploratory GS biomarkers in discovery bioanalytical research.
“BIs forBunny”: Contested Sign‐Making and the Possibilities for Performing School Literacy Differently
Authors: Kontovourki Stavroula , Siegel Marjorie
Published: January 2021

The tremendous interest in multimodality within the field of literacy education has challenged the verbocentric literacy landscape of schools. Research on multimodality in classroom spaces has suggested that combining and juxtaposing multiple sign systems is a generative act of transforming meanings. Yet, attention to entanglements of pedagogy and power has been rare in the research on students’ engagement with multimodality. In this article, we complicate the research on the generative potential of children’s multimodal sign‐making in school by tracing the ways this process is saturated with power. Using a theoretical mash‐up, performative semiotics, we read a classroom event, situated in a computer lab, in which two kindergartners regarded as successful literacy learners designed digital texts about a bunny that some children reported seeing on a field trip. The multiple meanings ofbunnythat the children negotiated are theorized as chains of contested sign‐making that are performative. In tracing both sign‐making and performativity, the analysis makes visible the politics of schooled literacy and the way children’s performances appear fixed yet are destabilized in their interactions, thus complicating the assumption that multimodality is a generative process that can transform schooled literacy. This analytic mash‐up also focuses attention on the instability of classroom interactions and shows how this provides openings for performing literacy differently even as they remain bound to normalized and naturalized ways of being literate in school. Thus, we argue that claims about multimodality require attention to the way both fixity and instability produces school literacy performances.
The Different Facets of Metal‐Catalyzed C−H Functionalization Involving Quinone Compounds
Authors: Wood James M. , de Carvalho Renato L. , da Silva Júnior Eufrânio N.
Published: January 2021

Metal‐catalysed C−H functionalization has emerged as a powerful platform for the derivatization of quinones, a class of compounds with wide‐ranging applications. This review organises and discusses the evolution of this chemistry from early Fujiwara‐Moritani reactions, through to modern directing‐group assisted C−H functionalization processes, including C−H functionalization reactions directed by the quinone ring itself. Mechanistic details of these reactions are provided to afford insight into how the unique reactivity of quinoidal compounds has been leveraged in each example.
Cover systems with synthetic water‐repellent soils
Authors: Zheng Shuang , Xing Xin , Lourenço Sérgio D. N. , Cleall Peter J.
Published: January 2021

A cover system is a crucial component of engineered landfills, to minimize water percolation into the underlying waste. Capillary barriers are an alternative cover system, which has been widely used in the arid and semiarid regions as no cohesive, low‐permeability materials are used. However, the performance of capillary barriers in tropical climate has been unsatisfactory (breakthrough observed). In recent years, synthetic water‐repellent granular materials have drawn increasing attention due to their distinctive hydraulic behavior (inhibited water infiltration and high water entry pressure), suggesting they may also be used to improve the performance of cover systems. In this study, flume tests were conducted with inclined model slopes under artificial rainfall. By monitoring the surface runoff, lateral diversion, and basal percolation and conducting water balance analysis, the performance of monolithic cover, conventional capillary barrier, and water‐repellent cover systems were evaluated. The study revealed that (a) the barrier effect and diversion capacity were significantly strengthened by induced water repellency, providing a promising solution to extend the application of capillary barrier covers; and (b) cover systems can be formed using one raw material to decrease the construction cost, by using synthetic water‐repellent soil as the underlying layer.
The pneumatic wheel model with plastic elements and force loss
Authors: Miroslaw Tomasz
Published: January 2021

Wheel construction and adhesion to the road decide on transport economy and safety. People are still developing wheel rims and tries to increase vehicle stability, reduce energy consumption and noise emissions. For many years designers have developed many models to describe the tire‐road phenomena. The models are created in a couple of ways, some tried to find the mathematical equation which follows the experiment resets, others tried to explain the phenomena itself. Some examples are presented in this paper. The brush Pacejca and LuGre models were developed to a new model to explain the process of vehicle force generation with longitudinal and lateral slips. When the wheel is propelled or braked, the force is transferred between rim and tire to the road by elastic blocks. Because of that, the difference of speed between the external part of the tire and the rim appears what results in tire longitudinal and lateral deformations. Based on Columbus friction model with Stribeck effect the model of force flow with tire deformation was presented for three models of friction. The two directional (lateral and longitudinal) slip and energy loses were worked out. The concept of the force flow model for dynamic processes modeling is presented. It refers to the force carried by the rotating part of the tire which loses the contact with a road. The friction force decreases and wheel has to accelerate until the new deformation compensates the “lost force.” Some examples of simulation results based on presented methods are shown and they seem to be consistent with other results from other accepted models.
Climate Change Adaptation in Southern Africa: Universalistic Science or Indigenous Knowledge or Hybrid
Authors: Mutambisi Tafadzwa , Chanza Nelson , Matamanda Abraham R. , Ncube Roseline , Chirisa Innocent
Published: January 2021

The aims of this chapter are to seek answer, through a document review, case studies, and thematic content analysis, to which direction Southern Africa should take in the face of climate change and to suggest a framework for adaptations by communities experiencing climatic events. Acknowledging that the fundamental set of ideas provided by indigenous knowledge (IK) works best at a small scale, the chapter argues for the need to seriously value IK-based response practices in the knowledge hybridization agenda. The worsening vulnerability potentiated by the increasing magnitude and severity of climate change impacts is a reminder that local-based indigenous response practices in Africa need to be complemented. Adaptation to climate change calls for real and surreal measures all being applied in combination. Across Africa, these measures have, at times, included the preservation of forest resources which increased carbon sinking and enhanced community resilience against climate change. Universalistic and orthodox sciences have punctuated and amplified these efforts by speaking of such initiatives as mitigation and adaptation through programs, e.g., Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) and ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA). The merits of the two approaches have resulted in increasing call among scholars for the merging of these programs with IK. However, it remains to be fully understood how such a hybrid approach could be operationalized without treating the latter as an inferior element in climate science discourses.