bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticles: Unusual Growth Mechanism for Size‐Dependent Properties
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Guangshe , Zhang Yuelan , Li Liping
Published: February 2021

Herein, non‐stoichiometric zinc ferrite nanoparticles, Zn0.86Fe2.14O4+δ,with grain sizes of being smaller than 11 nm were successfully prepared by varying the hydrothermal reaction duration and temperature. The influence of reaction temperature and time on the grain size of zinc ferrite nanoparticles was investigated. Non‐stoichiometric zinc ferrite nanoparticles underwent distinct processes at different reaction temperatures: at 200 °C, the growth mechanism follows an Ostwald ripening model with activation energy 124.7 kJ/mol, while at 120 °C, the particle growth is governed by aggregation and coalescence, Ostwald ripening mechanism with the activation energy 27.5 kJ/mol and digestive ripening process.The abnormal growth behavior of zinc ferrite nanoparticles is completely different from previous reports on the oxides. Detailed analysis of XPS, XRD, FT‐IR and Mössbauer spectra revealed that the presence of rich iron oxides on the surface of nanoparticles is responsible to the non‐stoichiometry. Moreover, unit cell volume and magnetic property of non‐stoichiometric zinc ferrite exhibited two extremum as the increase of grain size, which was closely related to the grain size‐dependent structure changing. The unusual growth behavior and the size dependent structure and property changes of non‐stoichiometric zinc ferrite nanoparticles reported in this work may be beneficial to guide the future development of magnetic materials.
Ultrasonic Bioconversion of Silver Ions into Nanoparticles with Azadirachta indica Extract and Coating over Plasma‐Functionalized Cotton Fabric
Authors: Anwar Muhammad , Shukrullah Shazia , Haq Inzamam U. , Saleem Muhammad , AbdEl‐Salam Nasser M. , Ibrahim Khalid A. , Mohamed Hassan F. , Khan Yasin
Published: February 2021

An ultrasonication approach was adopted for Azadirachta indica driven bioconversion of silver salt into silver nanoparticle (AgNPs). These nanoparticles were coated over plasma functionalized cotton by using a pad dry cure technique. For pre‐coat surface functionalization, the cotton fabric was exposed to an open air single dielectric barrier discharge (DBD). The emission spectrum revealed that DBD consisted of NO, O3, O,
, O+, OH−, N2 and
species. The plasma treatment produced negative radicals on the surface and improved the adhesion of fabric for nanoparticles. The crystallographic analysis revealed cubical structure of nanoparticles with average size of 25 nm. The fabric got fully covered with AgNPs after five pad‐dry cycles. Nanoparticles together with neem extract promoted the antimicrobial activity of the coated fabric. The inhibition zone of the silver coated fabric against E.Coli strains increased from 6 mm to 14 mm. The conductivity of fabric after 3, 5 and 7 cycles remained 2.56
10−2, 2.63
10−2 and 2.67
10−2 Siemens/cm, respectively. The coated fabric showed UV protection factor in the range of 210–269. The transmittance of UV−A radiations and UV−B radiations from the uncoated fabric was 19.27 % and 7.84 %, respectively, which reduced to 0.76 % and 0.24 % after 7 pad dry cycles.
Recovery of Aluminum and Preparation of Porous Carbon from Tetra Pak Waste
Authors: Huo Hanxin , Ma Yuhui , Wang Xunliang
Published: February 2021

Pyrolysis of paper and polyethylene in Tetra Pak waste occurred at 368 and 490 °C, respectively, while aluminum did not melted until the temperature reached 660 °C, thus aluminum and char can be obtained by carbonization of Tetra Pak waste at 550 °C. Pyrolytic char was processed into porous carbons by different methods. Specific surface area of the porous carbon prepared by carbonization of acid‐washed char at 850 °C achieved 741 m2 g−1, and the specific surface area of the porous carbon prepared from char by successively carbonization at 850 °C and acid‐washing was 732 m2 g−1. The developed porous structure was formed due to the polymerization of char above 650 °C, while the etching of char by CO2 generated via decomposition of inherent calcite led to a lower microporosity. Methylene blue adsorption capacity of the optimized sample reached 140 mg g−1, and the equilibrium data followed Langmuir model.
Augmented Listeria monocytogenes Biofilm Architecture Disruption and Synergistic effect of Antibiotics on Bacterial Species by Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Pandey Prem , Deshpande Pooja , Shirolkar Mandar M. , Patil Yogesh , Tiwari Amit K. , Kulkarni Atul
Published: February 2021

Tweaked standalone silver nanoparticles (AiAgNPs) were synthesized using Azadirachta indica (Ai) methanolic leaf extract. The as‐synthesized AiAgNPs in combination with standard antibiotics demonstrated enhanced antibacterial efficacy (2‐10‐fold) as compared to standard antibiotics with Listeria monocytogenes being the most resistant one. FESEM images reflect that AiAgNPs alone successfully disrupted hospital borne nosocomial infection causing L. monocytogenes stubborn biofilm.
The Activation and Reduction of N2 by Single/Double‐Atom Electrocatalysts: A First‐Principle Study
Authors: Zhang Shishi , Wang Mingda , Jiang Sheng , Wang Hongming
Published: February 2021

Developing low‐cost and highly efficient electrocatalysts for nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is one of the most attractive challenges. In this work, we systematically investigated the catalytic properties of the single atom catalysts (SAC) and the double atom catalysts (DAC) for NRR via First‐Principle calculations. The SAC and DAC were formed by single and double transition metal (TM) atoms anchored on N‐doped graphene monolayers (TMxN3x‐graphene, x=1, 2; TM=Mo, Fe, Co, Ni and Cu). It is shown that both the SAC and the DAC have exhibited high catalytic properties for NRR. Moreover, when N2 is absorbed by its side‐on sites, SAC even performs better than DAC. And in five kinds of TM atoms, Fe‐complexes exhibit significantly improved catalytic properties. Especially, Fe1N3‐graphene has the best catalytic activity for NRR with the lowest free energy change of 0.04 eV in the rate determining step (RDS). This work not only proposes the differences of SAC and DAC but also provides a new kind of single atom catalysts (SAC) for NNR.
Switching Propulsion Mechanisms of Tubular Catalytic Micromotors
Authors: Wrede Paul , Medina‐Sánchez Mariana , Fomin Vladimir M. , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: February 2021

Different propulsion mechanisms have been suggested for describing the motion of a variety of chemical micromotors, which have attracted great attention in the last decades due to their high efficiency and thrust force, enabling several applications in the fields of environmental remediation and biomedicine. Bubble‐recoil based motion, in particular, has been modeled by three different phenomena: capillary forces, bubble growth, and bubble expulsion. However, these models have been suggested independently based on a single influencing factor (i.e., viscosity), limiting the understanding of the overall micromotor performance. Therefore, the combined effect of medium viscosity, surface tension, and fuel concentration is analyzed on the micromotor swimming ability, and the dominant propulsion mechanisms that describe its motion more accurately are identified. Using statistically relevant experimental data, a holistic theoretical model is proposed for bubble‐propelled tubular catalytic micromotors that includes all three above‐mentioned phenomena and provides deeper insights into their propulsion physics toward optimized geometries and experimental conditions.
Footloose multinationals: Extending the internalization theory
Authors: Gokh Irina , Filippaios Fragkiskos
Published: February 2021

Internalization theory explains how the multinational enterprise (MNE) makes decisions on new investments but does not explicitly address the restructuring (i.e., unbundling) processes that can take place within the MNE network of subsidiaries. Further extensions to internalization theory have considered the ways MNEs recombine, bundle, unbundle and orchestrate resources but have yet to address specifically the issue of divestments and relocations. We contribute to the literature by extending internalization theory through conceptualizing footloose behavior, a repeated relocation of divested operations over a period of time, and approaching MNEs behavior in a holistic way. Empirically, we use four case studies of mature, complex and diversified MNEs within the context of European Union (EU). These MNEs have engaged in several investments, divestments and relocations over several years. Through the analysis of their behavior we demonstrate how the inclusion of divestments and relocations can extend internalization theory in explaining the modern MNE.
On‐demand field shaping for enhanced magnetic resonance imaging using an ultrathin reconfigurable metasurface
Authors: Wang Hanwei , Huang Hsuan‐Kai , Chen Yun‐Sheng , Zhao Yang
Published: February 2021

The signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) is the main figure of merit that assesses the quality of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Existing studies mainly focus on improving the magnetic field intensities of the constant homogenous field from the main coil or the oscillating field from the radio frequency (RF) coil. In addition to these options, SNR also depends on the coupling between the imaging subject and the RF coil during the signal reception, which has been largely ignored. Here, we provide a different route toward enhancing the SNR of MRI by improving this coupling during the signal reception. We elucidate a theoretical design of an ultrathin metasurface with micrometer thickness and high flexibility. This metasurface is reconfigurable; it can selectively boost the SNR at a desired imaging region with any arbitrary shapes. Our design has shown that this metasurface can enhance SNR by up to 28 times in the region of interest. At the same time, the metasurface is designed to minimally disturb the excitation fields by less than 1.6%, thus maintaining the uniformity of the excitation, important to achieve a high‐quality MR image without artifacts.
Lead(II) Tetracyanidoborates with Pb2O2 Dimers Embedded in Network Structures
Authors: Siegesmund Antje , Küppers Torsten , Graf Roland , Hennig Philipp T. , Wirthensohn Raphael , Sprenger Jan A. P. , Finze Maik , Köckerling Martin
Published: February 2021

First lead(II) tetracyanidoborates were synthesized and the crystal structures of [Pb2(H2O)4{B(CN)4}4] (1) and [Pb2(O2CCH3)2{B(CN)4}2(C2H5OH)2] (2) were determined by X‐ray diffraction. Both compounds contain dinuclear centrosymmetric Pb2O2 cores. The Pb(II) ions in both compounds have heteroleptic holodirected coordination environments constituted by three O and five N atoms (O3N5) in 1 different from that in 2, which is constituted by four O and four N atoms (O4N4). In 1 the bridging O atoms of the Pb2O2 unit belong to the water ligands, whereas in 2 one O atom of each of the two acetate ligands has the bridging functionality whereas the second one is terminally bonded, i. e. the acetate ligand coordinates in a μ2‐η2:η1 fashion. In 2, all four N atoms of the tetracyanidoborate anion are coordinated to neighboring Pb2O2 units, whereas in 1 free cyanido groups exist. Nevertheless, in both structures the dinuclear Pb units are three‐dimensionally interconnected, i. e. they are Pb(II) coordination networks. On heating compound 1 loses the aqua ligands and anhydrous Pb[B(CN)4]2 forms.
Tricarbonylrhenium(I) and ‐technetium(I) Complexes with Tris(1,2,3‐triazolyl)phosphine Oxides
Authors: Li Bo , Hildebrandt Sarah , Hagenbach Adelheid , Abram Ulrich
Published: February 2021

Two potentially tripodal ligands, tris(1‐phenyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)phosphine oxide (OP(1,2,3Tz1−Ph)3) and tris(1‐benzyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)phosphine oxide (OP(1,2,3Tz1−benz)3), were used in reactions with [Re(CO)5Br] and (NEt4)2[Tc(CO)3Cl3]. While the formation of rhenium complexes with bidentate and tridentate coordinated phosphine oxides was observed, for technetium only cationic complexes with tripodal coordinated OP(1,2,3Tz1−R) ligands were isolated. The products have been characterized spectroscopically and by single crystal X‐ray diffraction.
Lattice regularisation of a non-compact boundary conformal field theory
Authors: Robertson Niall F. , Jacobsen Jesper Lykke , Saleur Hubert
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Non-compact Conformal Field Theories (CFTs) are central to several aspects of string theory and condensed matter physics. They are characterised, in particular, by the appearance of a continuum of conformal dimensions. Surprisingly, such CFTs have been identified as the continuum limits of lattice models with a finite number of degrees of freedom per site. However, results have so far been restricted to the case of periodic boundary conditions, precluding the exploration via lattice models of aspects of non-compact boundary CFTs and the corresponding D-brane constructions.

The present paper follows a series of previous works on a ℤ2-staggered XXZ spin chain, whose continuum limit is known to be a non-compact CFT related with the Euclidian black hole sigma model. By using the relationship of this spin chain with an integrable $$ {D}_2^2 $$

D
2
2

vertex model, we here identify integrable boundary conditions that lead to a continuous spectrum of boundary exponents, and thus correspond to non-compact branes. In the context of the Potts model on a square lattice, they correspond to wired boundary conditions at the physical antiferromagnetic critical point. The relations with the boundary parafermion theories are discussed as well. We are also able to identify a boundary renormalisation group flow from the non-compact boundary conditions to the previously studied compact ones.
Muskuloskelettale Labordiagnostik im Leistungssport
Authors: Delsmann Maximilian M. , Stürznickel Julian , Amling Michael , Ueblacker Peter , Rolvien Tim
Published: February 2021

Hintergrund

Die labordiagnostische Untersuchung stellt eine wichtige Möglichkeit zur Beurteilung und Optimierung der Leistungs- und Regenerationsfähigkeit professioneller Athleten dar. Ferner ist sie für die Prävention, Diagnostik und Rehabilitation von Verletzungen und Überbelastungen von Bedeutung.

Fragestellung

Ziel dieser Arbeit ist die Darstellung muskuloskelettaler laborchemischer Parameter, die relevante Erkenntnisse für die medizinische Betreuung von Leistungssportlern liefern.

Material und Methoden

Literaturrecherche und narratives Review.

Ergebnisse

Die Bestimmung des Vitamin-D-, Calcium- und Knochenstoffwechsels stellt die laborchemische Basisdiagnostik im Rahmen der Beurteilung des Skelettstatus mit zusätzlichem präventivem Nutzen bezüglich muskuloskelettaler Verletzungen dar. Ferner können muskuläre Serummarker, z. B. Laktatdehydrogenase (LDH), Kreatinkinase (CK), Myoglobin und Aspartat-Aminotransferase (ASAT), helfen, eine metabolische Adaptation an das physische Training festzustellen und Aussagen über die muskuläre Arbeitslast und mögliche Schädigungen zu gewinnen. Die Energieverfügbarkeit kann durch eine entsprechende Bilanzierung sowie die laborchemische Bestimmung der Makro- und Mikronährstoffe eingeschätzt und optimiert werden.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die labordiagnostische Untersuchung besitzt in der Betreuung von Athleten eine sportartenübergreifende klinische Relevanz. Sie dient der Erreichung einer höchstmöglichen Leistungsfähigkeit sowie optimalen Prävention von Knochen- und Muskelverletzungen, wobei sämtliche Mangelzustände (z. B. Vitamin D) ausgeglichen werden sollten. Durch eine Periodisierung der laborchemischen Untersuchungen, mit zumindest zwei Labordiagnostiken im Jahr, und Aufstellung individueller Variabilitäts- und Referenzbereiche kann ferner eine bessere Beurteilbarkeit erreicht werden.
Die optische Kohärenztomographie-Angiographie und Erkrankungen des kardiovaskulären Spektrums. Ein Überblick über die aktuelle Studienlage
Authors: Leclaire Martin Dominik , Eter Nicole , Alnawaiseh Maged
Published: February 2021

Hintergrund

Kardiovaskuläre Erkrankungen (KVE) sind die Haupttodesursache weltweit. Die Beobachtbarkeit von Veränderungen der retinalen Gefäße im Zusammenhang mit KVE mittels Fundoskopie ist schon seit Langem bekannt. Ein neuartiges Verfahren zur nichtinvasiven und detaillierten Darstellung und Quantifizierung der retinalen und papillären Gefäße stellt die optische Kohärenztomographie-Angiographie (OCT-A) dar. Durch die OCT‑A ist es möglich, Gefäßveränderungen einfach und gut reproduzierbar zu visualisieren, weswegen ihr Einsatz nicht nur auf augenärztliche Fragestellungen beschränkt ist. In den vergangenen Jahren sind einige experimentelle und klinische Studien zur Darstellbarkeit und Quantifizierung von Gefäßveränderungen durch die OCT‑A bei Erkrankungen des kardiovaskulären Spektrums publiziert worden. In der vorliegenden Übersicht werden die wichtigsten Erkenntnisse aus diesen Studien zusammengefasst.

Methoden

Grundlage dieser Arbeit bilden eine umfassende selektive Literaturrecherche und die Darstellung eigener Daten.

Ergebnisse

Mittlerweile liegen zu vielen Erkrankungen des kardiovaskulären Spektrums OCT-A-Studien vor, die verdeutlichen, dass systemische Gefäßerkrankungen mit Veränderungen der retinalen Mikrozirkulation verbunden sind. Mit der OCT‑A können diese Veränderungen visualisiert und reproduzierbar quantifiziert werden. Oftmals ist es möglich, subklinische Veränderungen aufzuzeigen, bevor die zugrunde liegende Erkrankung anderweitig messbare Veränderungen oder für den Patienten merkbare Symptome verursacht.

Schlussfolgerung

Die OCT‑A ist eine vielversprechende Bildgebungsmethode auf dem Gebiet der KVE in Wissenschaft und klinischer Anwendung. Sie kann zur Diagnostik und Quantifizierung retinaler Gefäßveränderungen eingesetzt werden. Weitere Studien werden zeigen, ob die OCT‑A bei der Einschätzung des individuellen kardiovaskulären Risikoprofils helfen kann.
Biventricular function in exercise during autonomic (thoracic epidural) block
Authors: Wink Jeroen , Steendijk Paul , Tsonaka Roula , de Wilde Rob B. P. , Friedericy Hans J. , Braun Jerry , Veering Bernadette Th. , Aarts Leon P. H. J. , Wouters Patrick F.
Published: February 2021

Background

Blockade of cardiac sympathetic fibers by thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) was previously shown to reduce right and left ventricular systolic function and effective pulmonary arterial elastance. At conditions of constant paced heart rate, cardiac output and systemic hemodynamics were unchanged. In this study, we further investigated the effect of cardiac sympathicolysis during physical stress and increased oxygen demand.

Methods

In a cross-over design, 12 patients scheduled to undergo thoracic surgery performed dynamic ergometric exercise tests with and without TEA. Hemodynamics were monitored and biventricular function was measured by transthoracic two-dimensional and M-mode echocardiography, pulsed wave Doppler and tissue Doppler imaging.

Results

TEA attenuated systolic RV function (TV Sʹ: − 21%,P < 0.001) and LV function (MV Sʹ: − 14%,P = 0.025), but biventricular diastolic function was not affected. HR (− 11%,P < 0.001), SVI (− 15%,P = 0.006), CI (− 21%,P < 0.001) and MAP (− 12%,P < 0.001) were decreased during TEA, but SVR was not affected. Exercise resulted in significant augmentation of systolic and diastolic biventricular function. During exercise HR, SVI, CI and MAP increased (respectively, + 86%, + 19%, + 124% and + 17%, allP < 0.001), whereas SVR decreased (− 49%,P < 0.001). No significant interactions between exercise and TEA were found, except for RPP (P = 0.024) and MV E DT (P = 0.035).

Conclusion

Cardiac sympathetic blockade by TEA reduced LV and RV systolic function but did not significantly blunt exercise-induced increases in LV and RV function. These data indicate that additional mechanisms besides those controlled by the cardiac sympathetic nervous system are involved in the regulation of cardiac function during dynamic exercise.

Trial registrationClinical trial registration: Nederlands Trial Register, NTR 4880http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=4880.
Surgical treatment of recalcitrant gastroesophageal reflux disease in patients with systemic sclerosis: a systematic review
Authors: Aiolfi Alberto , Nosotti Mario , Matsushima Kazuhide , Perali Carolina , Ogliari Cristina , Del Papa Nicoletta , Bonitta Gianluca , Bona Davide
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is frequently seen in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Long-standing GERD may cause esophagitis, long-segment strictures, and Barrett’s esophagus and may worsen pre-existing pulmonary fibrosis with an increased risk of end-stage lung disease. Surgical treatment of recalcitrant GERD remains controversial. The purpose of this systematic review was to summarize the current data on surgical treatment of recalcitrant GERD in SSc patients.

Materials and methods

A systematic literature review according to PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were consulted.

Results

A total of 101 patients were included from 7 studies. The age ranged from 34 to 61 years and the majority were females (73.5%). Commonly reported symptoms were heartburn (92%), regurgitation (77%), and dysphagia (74%). Concurrent pulmonary disease was diagnosed in 58% of patients. Overall, 63 patients (62.4%) underwent open fundoplication, 17 (16.8%) laparoscopic fundoplication, 15 (14.9%) Roux en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and 6 (5.9%) esophagectomy. The postoperative follow-up ranged from 12 to 65 months. Recurrent symptoms were described in up to 70% and 30% of patients undergoing fundoplication and RYGB, respectively. Various symptoms were reported postoperatively depending on the type of surgical procedures, anatomy of the valve, need for esophageal lengthening, and follow-up.

Conclusions

The treatment of recalcitrant GERD in SSc patients is challenging. Esophagectomy should be reserved to selected patients. Minimally invasive RYGB appears feasible and safe with promising preliminary short-term results. Current evidence is scarce while a definitive indication about the most appropriate surgical treatment is lacking.
Geologische, hydrogeologische und anthropogene Einflüsse auf die Wasserchemie der Möhlin, Schwarzwald – eine Momentaufnahme
Authors: Nitzsche Niels , Siebel Wolfgang , Stober Ingrid
Published: February 2021

Diese Arbeit untersucht die geologischen, hydrogeologischen und anthropogenen Einflüsse auf die chemische Zusammensetzung eines Flusses, am Beispiel der Möhlin. Wasserproben wurden an verschiedenen Flussabschnitten genommen und mittels Alkalinitätstest und Ionenchromatographie auf die Ionen Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, HCO3−, CO32−, SO42−, Cl−, F− und NO3− untersucht. Daneben wurden Leitfähigkeit, Temperatur, Abfluss und pH-Wert gemessen und die δD- und δ18O‑Isotopenzusammensetzung durch Cavity-Ring-Down-Spektroskopie ermittelt. Die Untersuchung zeigt, dass es sich bei der Möhlin im Oberlauf um einen silikatisch geprägten Fluss handelt, während sie sich im Unterlauf an der Grenze von silikatisch bis karbonatisch bewegt. Die Geologie hat den stärksten Einfluss auf die Wasserchemie der Möhlin, wobei große Anteile am geologischen Fingerabdruck durch ihre Zuflüsse geprägt werden. Weitere Einflussfaktoren sind anthropogene Einleitungen, wasserbauliche Maßnahmen sowie der ehemalige Bergbau im Elsass und Schwarzwald. Insgesamt weist das Wasser der Möhlin in Bezug auf die untersuchten Parameter eine gute Wasserqualität auf.
High-resolution topographic variables accurately predict the distribution of rare plant species for conservation area selection in a narrow-endemism hotspot in New Caledonia
Authors: Lannuzel Guillaume , Balmot Joan , Dubos Nicolas , Thibault Martin , Fogliani Bruno
Published: February 2021

Species distribution models (SDMs) represent a widely acknowledged tool to identify priority areas on the basis of occurrence data and environmental factors. However, high levels of topographical and climatic micro-variation are a hindrance to reliably modelling the distribution of narrow-endemic species when based on classic occurrence and climate datasets. Here, we used high-resolution environmental variables and occurrence data obtained from dedicated field studies to produce accurate SDMs at a local scale. We modelled the potential current distribution of 23 of the 25 rarest species from Mount Kaala, a hotspot of narrow-endemism in New Caledonia, using occurrence data from two recent sampling campaigns, and eight high-resolution (10 m and 30 m) environmental predictors in a Species Distribution Modelling framework. After a first sampling operation, we surveyed six additional areas containing, overall, 13 of the 20 species modelled at this stage, to validate our projections where the highest species richness levels were predicted. The ability of our method to define conservation areas was largely validated with an average 84% of predicted species found in the validation areas, and additional data collected enabling us to model three more species. We therefore identified the areas of highest conservation value for the whole of Mount Kaala. Our results support the ability of SDMs based on presence-only data such as MaxEnt to predict areas of high conservation value using fine-resolution environmental layers and field-collected occurrence data in the context of small and heterogeneous systems such as tropical islands.
DTX3 copy number increase in breast cancer: a study of associations to molecular subtype, proliferation and prognosis
Authors: Valla Marit , Opdahl Signe , Ytterhus Borgny , Bofin Anna Mary
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The degree of cell proliferation is important for subclassification of breast cancers into prognostic and therapeutic groups. DTX3 has been identified as a driver of proliferation in luminal breast cancer. In this study, we describe DTX3 copy number in breast cancer primary tumours and corresponding axillary lymph node metastases, and studied associations with molecular subtype, proliferation and prognosis.

Methods

Using fluorescence in situ hybridization, we assessed DTX3 and chromosome 12 centromere (CEP12) copy number in 542 primary breast cancers and 117 lymph node metastases, from a well-described cohort of Norwegian breast cancer patients. Proliferation was expressed as mitotic counts and Ki67 score. Associations between DTX3 copy number and molecular subtype and proliferation were assessed using Pearson’sχ2test. We studied the effect of copy number increase on prognosis estimating cumulative incidence of breast cancer death and hazard ratios.

Results

Mean DTX3 copy number ≥ 4 was found in 23 tumours (4%), and mean ≥ 5 in 9 tumours (1.7%). Copy number increase was found within all molecular subtypes except the 5 negative phenotype and the Luminal B (HER2 +) subtype. DTX3 copy number increase was not accompanied by an increase in CEP12. Point estimates showed that there were associations between DTX3 copy number increase and high proliferation and poor prognosis; however, precision depended on copy number cut-off.

Conclusions

DTX3 copy number increase was present in a small proportion of breast cancer cases. There was an association between copy number increase and high tumour cell proliferation and poor prognosis.
Quantification of regurgitation in mitral valve prolapse with automated real time echocardiographic 3D proximal isovelocity surface area: multimodality consistency and role of eccentricity index
Authors: Spampinato Ricardo A. , Lindemann Frank , Jahnke Cosima , Paetsch Ingo , Fahr Florian , Sieg Franz , von Roeder Maximilian , Noack Thilo , Hilbert Sebastian , Löbe Susanne , Strotdrees Elfriede , Hindricks Gerhard , Borger Michael A.
Published: February 2021

Three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (3D-TTE) provides a semi-automated proximal isovelocity surface area method (3D-PISA) to obtain quantitative parameters. Data assessing regurgitation severity in mitral valve prolapse (MVP) are scarce, so we assessed the 3D-PISA method compared with 2D-PISA and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) and the role of an eccentricity index. We evaluated the 3D-PISA method for assessing MR in 54 patients with MVP (57 ± 14 years; 42 men; 12 mild/mild-moderate; 12 moderate-severe; and 30 severe MR). Role of an asymmetric (i.e. eccentricity index ≥ 1.25) flow convergence region (FCR) and inter-modality consistency were then assessed. 3D-PISA derived regurgitant volume (RVol) showed a good correlation with 2D-PISA and CMR derived parameters (r = 0.86 and r = 0.81, respectively). The small mean differences with 2D-PISA derived RVol did not reach statistical significance in overall population (5.7 ± 23 ml, 95% CI − 0.6 to 12; p = 0.08) but differed in those with asymmetric 3D-FCR (n = 21; 2D-PISA: 72 ± 36 ml vs. 3D-PISA: 93 ± 47 ml; p = 0.001). RVol mean values were higher using PISA methods (CMR 57 ± 33 ml; 2D-PISA 73 ± 39 ml; and 3D-PISA 79 ± 45 ml) and an overestimation was observed when CMR was used as reference (2D-PISA vs. CMR: mean difference: 15.8 ml [95% CI 10–22, p < 0.001]; and 3D-PISA vs. CMR: 21.5 ml [95% CI 14–29, p < 0.001]). Intra- and inter-observer reliability was excellent (ICC 0.91–0.99), but with numerically lower coefficient of variation for 3D-PISA (8%–10% vs. 2D-PISA: 12%–16%). 3D-PISA method for assessing regurgitation in MVP may enable analogous evaluation compared to standard 2D-PISA, but with overestimation in case of asymmetric FCR or when CMR is used as reference method.
A mechanism for fire retardancy realized by a combination of biofillers and ammonium polyphosphate in various polymer systems
Authors: Matsumoto Koki , Tanaka Tatsuya , Sasada Masahiro , Sano Noriyuki , Masuyama Kenta
Published: February 2021

This study focused on realizing fire retardancy for polymer composites by using a cellulosic biofiller and ammonium polyphosphate (APP). The motivation of this study was based on revealing the mechanism of the synergetic effect of a cellulosic biofiller and APP and determining the parameters required for achieving a V-0 rating in UL94 standard regardless of the kind of polymer system used. As for the polymer matrix, polypropylene and polylactic acid were used. The flammability, burning behavior and thermal decomposition behavior of the composites were investigated through a burning test according to the UL-94 standard, cone calorimetric test and thermogravimetric analysis. As a result, the incorporation of a high amount of cellulose enabled a V-0 rating to be achieved with only a small amount of APP despite the variation of the optimum cellulose loading between the matrix polymers. Through analysis, the results indicated that APP decreased the dehydration temperature of cellulose. Furthermore, APP promoted the generation of enough water as a nonflammable gas and formed enough char until the degradation of the polymer matrix was complete. The conditions required to achieve the V-0 rating were suggested against composites incorporating APP and biofillers. Furthermore, the suggested conditions were validated by using polyoxymethylene as a highly flammable polymer.
Development of lignocellulosic fiber reinforced cement composite panels using semi-dry technology
Authors: Hasan K. M. Faridul , Horváth Péter György , Alpár Tibor
Published: February 2021

There is a growing interest in developing cement bonded lignocellulosic fiber (LF) composites with enhanced mechanical performances. This study assessed the possibility of developing composite panels with 12 mm thickness and around 1200 kg/m3 nominal densities from ordinary Portland cements (OPC) and mixed LFs from seven different woody plants found in Hungary. Once the mixed LFs were sieved and found fine (0–0.6 mm) and medium (0.6–0.8 mm) length fibers. The optimum ratio for LF, OPC, water glass (Na2SiO3), and cement stone was found to be 1:3.5:0.7:0.07. The semi-dry process, which is a comparatively cheaper and less labor intensive technology, was used for producing the composites. After 28 days of curing, the composite panels were characterized for mechanical, physical, thermal, and morphological properties. A scanning electron microscopy (SEM) test was conducted to observe the fiber orientation in the matrix before and after the bending test, which showed the clear presence of the fibers in the composites. The FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) was conducted to investigate the presence of chemical compounds of LF in the composite panels. Different physical (water absorption and thickness swelling) characteristics of the composite panels were investigated. Furthermore, mechanical properties (flexural properties and internal bonding strength) of the composite panels were also found to be satisfactory. The flexural modulus and internal bonding strengths of composite panel 2 is higher than other three boards, although the flexural strength is a little lower than composite panel 1. The thermogravimetric analysis and differential thermogravimetry also indicated better thermal stability of composite panels which could be used as potential insulation panel for buildings.

Graphic abstract
The Influence of Negative Feedback and Social Rank on Feelings of Shame and Guilt: A Vignette Study in 8- to 13-Year-Old Non-Clinical Children
Authors: Hendriks Eline , Muris Peter , Meesters Cor
Published: February 2021

This experimental study examined the role of negative feedback and social rank in the experience of self-conscious emotions, shame and guilt, in typically developing children aged 8 to 13 years. Participants were tested by means of a vignette paradigm in which feedback and social rank were systematically manipulated and levels of shame and guilt were assessed after listening to each of the vignettes. In addition, children completed a set of questionnaires for measuring individual differences in shame and guilt proneness, social comparison, submissive behavior, and external shame. The results showed that children presented with negative feedback reported higher ratings of shame and guilt than when presented with positive feedback, implying that the provision of negative feedback has a significant impact on children’s experience of self-conscious emotions. Social rank had less effect on children’s report of these self-conscious emotions. Furthermore, the individual difference variables of guilt proneness, and to a lesser extent shame proneness and submissive behavior, appeared to be positively related to self-conscious emotions as reported during the vignette task.
Compensation effect of winter snow on larch growth in Northeast China
Authors: Li Yuanqiao , Wu Xiuchen , Huang Yongmei , Li Xiaoyan , Shi Fangzhong , Zhao Shoudong , Yang Yuting , Tian Yuhong , Wang Pei , Zhang Shulei , Zhang Cicheng , Wang Yang , Xu Chongyang , Zhao Pengwu
Published: February 2021

Winter snow plays a crucial role in regulating tree growth during the subsequent growing season in regions suffering seasonal or even annual drought stress, but the mechanisms of the potential compensation effect of winter snow on subsequent growing-season tree growth are not well understood. In this study, we establish tree-ring chronologies of six larch forest stands along a marked drought gradient across Northeast China. We identify the spatial pattern in the compensation effects of winter snow on subsequent growing-season tree radial growth and uncover a potentially enhanced compensation effect in drier climates. Our results indicate that in snow-rich sites, winter snow tends to exert a significantly positive effect on tree growth during the growing season, whereas this growth compensation effect is reduced in drier sites. More importantly, our findings identify a much higher compensation effect of winter snow on growing-season larch growth in drier years (24.4–48.0%) than in wetter years (6.1–8.1%) at snow-rich sites. Given the projected increase in both severity and duration of droughts in temperate regions, the potential compensation effect of winter snow could play a crucial role in mediating the adaptation ability of boreal/hemi-boreal forest ecosystems in response to a warmer and drier future climate in these regions.
Small invertebrates in bivalve-cultivated and unmodified habitats of nearshore ecosystems
Authors: Munsch Stuart H. , Barber Julie S. , Cordell Jeffery R. , Kiffney Peter M. , Sanderson Beth L. , Toft Jason D.
Published: February 2021

Many nearshore ecosystems are modified by aquaculture, including bivalve culture to produce food and restore extirpated populations. Small invertebrates in nearshore ecosystems support fundamental ecological processes, but the effects of bivalve culture on invertebrates are incompletely understood. Here, we compared invertebrate assemblages from multiple studies of bivalve-cultivated and unmodified nearshore habitats along the US west coast. In general, unmodified eelgrass and nearby off-bottom culture habitats with eelgrass present were inhabited by a greater abundance, richness, and diversity of epibenthic invertebrates than bottom culture and bare (mud, sand) habitats that both lacked eelgrass. Findings of individual studies suggested: minor differences in epibenthic invertebrate assemblages associated with various aquaculture practices; restoring native oysters to mudflats did not detectably alter epibenthic invertebrate abundances; epibenthic invertebrates were more abundant on shell hash introduced to mudflats than unmodified mudflats; and benthic invertebrates were less abundant, rich, and diverse in habitats cultured on bottom by Manila clams. Considering the range of these patterns, there appears to be potential for coastal communities to restore extirpated bivalve populations or develop bivalve culture practices that meet objectives to grow food while maintaining nearshore ecosystems’ fundamental processes supported by robust invertebrate assemblages.
Effects of temperature and plant diversity on orthopterans and leafhoppers in calcareous dry grasslands
Authors: Geppert Costanza , La Bella Greta , Boscutti Francesco , Sanna Francesco , Marangoni Federico , Marini Lorenzo
Published: February 2021

In mountains, current land-use changes are altering plant communities of semi-natural grasslands with potential cascading effects on associated herbivores. Besides vegetation changes, temperature is also a key driver of insect diversity, and in the European Alps is predicted to increase by 0.25 °C per decade. Understanding herbivore responses to temperature and plant composition changes in mountain environments is of increasing importance. Our study aims at investigating the response to temperature and plant diversity and composition of two key herbivore groups (orthopterans and leafhoppers) belonging to contrasting feeding guilds (chewers vs. sap-feeders). We hypothesized that orthopteran diversity would be driven by temperature while leafhoppers by plant community composition. We selected 15 dry calcareous grasslands ranging from 100 to 1330 m a.s.l. along two independent gradients of plant diversity and temperature. We sampled orthopteran and leafhopper species richness and abundance by sweep-netting. Consistent with their low feeding specialisation, orthopteran species richness and community composition were only driven by temperature. By contrast, leafhopper species richness was not affected by temperature nor by plant diversity but leafhopper community composition was strongly influenced by plant species composition. This response can be explained by the higher host feeding specialisation of many leafhopper species. Species rarity and mobility did not change the response of the diversity of both groups, but orthopteran abundance increased with temperature only for highly mobile species. Altogether, our results suggest that future responses of grassland herbivores to vegetation changes and temperature warming are highly variable and depend on the feeding strategy and specialisation of the focal herbivore group.

Implications for insect conservation

Leafhoppers emerged to be particularly sensitive to potential management or climate-induced change in vegetation composition, while orthopterans are expected to respond directly to temperature warming due to their relaxed association with plant community diversity and composition.
Maintenance optimization for a multi-unit system with digital twin simulation
Authors: Savolainen Jyrki , Urbani Michele
Published: February 2021

Optimization of operations and maintenance (O&M) in the industry is a topic that has been largely studied in the literature. Many authors focused on reliability-based approaches to optimize O&M, but little attention has been given to study the influence of macroeconomic variables on the long-term maintenance policy. This work aims to optimize time-based maintenance (TBM) policy in the mining industry. The mine environment is reproduced employing a virtual model that resembles a digital twin (DT) of the system. The effect of maintenance decisions is replicated by a discrete event simulation (DES), whereas a model of the financial operability of the mine is realized through System Dynamics (SD). The simultaneous use of DES and the SD allows us to reproduce the environment with high-fidelity and to minimize the cost of O&M. The selected illustrative case example demonstrates that the proposed approach is feasible. The issues of using high dimensional simulation data from DT-models in managerial decision making is identified and discussed.
The primacy of the noematic. On the methodological relevance of art for phenomenology
Authors: Figal Guenter
Published: February 2021

As Husserl already noticed, artworks themselves have a phenomenological character. This means, however, that to experience artworks as phenomena no “epoché” and no “phenomenological reduction” is necessary. The leading question of my essay is whether, and possibly how, this observation can be methodologically generalized for understanding phenomena. I discuss if, and possibly how, a phenomenological reflection on art allows and even demands a general conception of phenomenology that nevertheless does not confuse artworks with phenomena in general. My intention is to show that and how phenomenality can be clarified with reference to its spatial character. Accordingly, works of architecture that are artworks will play a decisive role in my argument.
Zooming into chaos as a pathway for the creation of a fast, light and reliable cryptosystem
Authors: Machicao Jeaneth , Bruno Odemir M. , Baptista Murilo S.
Published: February 2021

Motivated by today’s huge volume of data that needs to be handled in secrecy, there is a wish to develop not only fast and light but also reliably secure cryptosystems. Chaos allows for the creation of pseudo-random numbers (PRNs) by low-dimensional transformations that need to be applied only a small number of times. These two properties may translate into a chaos-based cryptosystem that is both fast (short running time) and light (little computational effort). What we propose here is an approach to generate PRNs—and consequently digital secret keys—that can serve as a seed for an enhanced chaos-based cryptosystem. We use low-dimensional chaotic maps to quickly generate PRNs that have little correlation, and then, we quickly (“fast”) enhance secrecy by several orders (“reliability”) with very little computational cost (“light”) by simply looking at the less significant digits of the initial chaotic trajectory. This paper demonstrates this idea with rigor, by showing that a transformation applied a small number of times to chaotic trajectories significantly increases its entropy and Lyapunov exponents, as a consequence of the smoothing out of the probability density towards a uniform distribution.
Do Nonprofit Organizations Experience Precarious Employment? The Impact of NGO Commercialization
Authors: Mikołajczak Paweł
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this article is to examine if Polish non-governmental organizations (NGOs) experience the precarious employment and to identify whether the commercialization of NGOs influences this phenomenon. The study confirms that Polish NGOs experience precarious employment. The greater flexibility a given form of employee engagement provides, the greater the number of NGOs using it. Only a small percentage of organizations employ full-time employees. However, the commercialization does not significantly affect precarious employment in NGOs, moreover it does not impact on the employment of contract employees who had previously worked for the organization as volunteers.
Effectiveness of motivational interviewing on anxiety, depression, sleep quality and quality of life in heart failure patients: secondary analysis of the MOTIVATE-HF randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rebora Paola , Spedale Valentina , Occhino Giuseppe , Luciani Michela , Alvaro Rosaria , Vellone Ercole , Riegel Barbara , Ausili Davide
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Anxiety, depression, poor sleep quality and lower quality of life (QOL) are associated with worse outcomes in heart failure (HF) patients. Motivational interview (MI) has been effective in different patient populations to promote self-care. However, its effect on anxiety, depression, sleep quality and QOL in HF patients is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of MI on anxiety, depression, sleep quality and QOL over 12 months from the intervention.

Methods

This was a planned, secondary outcome analysis of the MOTIVATE-HF study, a three-arm randomized controlled trial (1:1:1) evaluating the effect of MI in improving self-care in HF patients. In Arm 1, the patient received MI, while in Arm 2, the patient and the caregiver received MI. Arm 3, the control group, received standard treatment. Endpoints were evaluated with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) and the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) every three months for one year.

Results

We enrolled and randomized 510 HF patient and caregiver dyads (155 dyads in Arm 1, 177 dyads in Arm 2, and 178 dyads in Arm 3). A total of 238 HF patients and 235 caregivers completed the 12-month trial. No significant changes were seen in anxiety, depression and sleep quality over time among the three study arms, but disease-specific QOL improved in the intervention groups, especially in Arm 2.

Conclusion

Clinicians may want to include both patients and caregivers when providing MI interventions. Further research is needed to investigate the required intensity of MI to be effective on sleep quality, anxiety and depression (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02894502).