bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green supply chain management and firm performance in the automotive industry
Authors: Maldonado Guzmán Gonzalo , Mojica Carrillo Elena Patricia , Pinzón Castro Sandra Yesenia
Published: February 2022

In the past few decades, an increase in articles publication that analyze and discuss environmental issues can be observed in the literature. However, because the global warming problem, various government agencies have rigorous environmental rules and policies, to such an extent that they are forcing companies particularly those that make up the automotive industry, to adopt measures to reduce the pollution generated by their supply chain, since it is one of the industries that generates most pollution globally. Thus, the objective of this study is to provide empirical evidence that helps fill the gap in the current literature, and to analyze the relationship between green supply chain management and business performance, through quantitative, explanatory research, and correlational, through the application of structural equation models. The results obtained show that green supply chain management is correlated by 47.6% with business performance, which allows to conclude that green supply chain management not only improves environmental sustainability, but also increases business performance of companies in the automotive industry.
Relación entre engagement y calidad de vida en el trabajo en funcionarios de establecimientos educacionales chilenos
Authors: Ossa Cornejo Carlos Javier , Jiménez Figueroa Andrés Eduardo
Published: February 2022

Este estudio analiza la relación entre engagement y calidad de vida en funcionarios de establecimientos educativos chilenos de las regiones de Maule y Ñuble. Se aplicaron dos instrumentos: una adaptación del Cuestionario de calidad de vida laboral y el Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES 17) que mide el nivel de engagement de la persona con su actividad laboral a un total de 241 funcionarios de ocho organizaciones escolares. Para la aplicación de los cuestionarios se realizó una versión online debido a la situación de pandemia por Covid-19. Los resultados muestran una tendencia a valorar positivamente los indicadores de calidad de vida en el trabajo y engagement, con alta correlación entre las dos variables. Se concluye que la relación entre estas variables es importante lo que permitiría promover estrategias de desarrollo organizacional en este tipo de instituciones, con miras a formular políticas de gestión de personas con un enfoque centrado en el equilibrio entre las necesidades personales y las organizacionales.
Relationship between irregularities in spontaneous otoacoustic emissions suppression and psychophysical tuning curves
Authors: Engler Sina , Gaudrain Etienne , de Kleine Emile , van Dijk Pim
Published: February 2022

The suppression of spontaneous otoacoustic emissions (SOAEs) allows the objective evaluation of cochlear frequency selectivity by determining the suppression tuning curve (STC). Interestingly, some STCs have additional sidelobes at the high frequency flank, which are thought to result from interaction between the probe tone and the cochlear standing wave corresponding to the SOAE being suppressed. Sidelobes are often in regions of other neighboring SOAEs but can also occur in the absence of any other SOAE. The aim of this study was to compare STCs and psychoacoustic tuning curves (PTCs). Therefore, STCs and PTCs were measured in: (1) subjects in which the STC had a sidelobe, and (2) subjects without STC sidelobes. Additionally, PTCs were measured in subjects without SOAEs. Across participant groups, the quality factor Q10dB of the PTCs was similar, independently from whether SOAEs were present or absent. Thus, the presence of an SOAE does not provide enhanced frequency selectivity at the emission frequency. Moreover, both PTC and STC show irregularities, but these are not related in a straightforward way. This suggests that different mechanisms cause these irregularities.
Isolation of a Novel Bat Rhabdovirus with Evidence of Human Exposure in China
Authors: Li Li-Li , Xu Ya-Long , Lu Xue-Xin , Deng Hong-Yan , Li Jin-Song , Song Jing-Dong , Ma Xiao-Hua , Zhu Wu-Yang , Wang Jing-Lin , Duan Zhao-Jun
Published: February 2022

We identified a novel rhabdovirus from the horseshoe bat (
Rhinolophus thomasi
) in China with probable infectivity in humans. DPRV was isolated
in vitro
from several mammalian cell lines, indicating wide host tropism, excluding bats, of DPRV.
Signal Peptidase-Mediated Cleavage of the Anti-σ Factor RsiP at Site 1 Controls σ
P
Activation and β-Lactam Resistance in Bacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Nauta Kelsie M. , Ho Theresa D. , Ellermeier Craig D.
Published: February 2022

β-Lactam antibiotics are important for the treatment of many bacterial infections. However, resistance mechanisms have become increasingly more prevalent.
Microbial Functional Diversity Correlates with Species Diversity along a Temperature Gradient
Authors: Ruhl Ilona A. , Sheremet Andriy , Smirnova Angela V. , Sharp Christine E. , Grasby Stephen E. , Strous Marc , Dunfield Peter F.
Published: February 2022

Only recently have microbial ecologists begun to assess quantitatively how microbial species diversity correlates with environmental factors like pH, temperature, and salinity. However, still, very few studies have examined how the number of distinct biochemical functions of microbial communities, termed functional diversity, varies with the same environmental factors.
Supplemental Material: Ligurian hyperextended continental margin preserved in an ophiolitic block at Timpa di Pietrasasso, Calabrian Arc, southern Italy
Authors: Shimabukuro David H. , Battistella Claire
Published: February 2022

Figure S1: (Ce/Yb)N versus (Dy/Yb)N discrimination diagram of Saccani (2015) with G-MORB indicating a garnet-influenced MORB. Figure S2: P-T estimates of hornblende in gabbro based on the Al- and Ti-in-hornblende semiquantitative thermobarometer of Ernst and Liu (1998). Figure S3: Cathodoluminescence of zircons from an albitite segregation at Timpa di Pietrasasso with LA-ICP-MS 206Pb/238U dates. Detail shown for the three youngest zircons that show oscillatory zoning; laser pit is visible in images. Full data shown in Table S1. Table S1: U-Pb geochronologic analyses. Table S2: LA-ICP-MS analytical settings.
Strengthening research capacity: a systematic review of manuscript writing and publishing interventions for researchers in low-income and middle-income countries
Authors: Busse Clara E , Anderson Elizabeth W , Endale Tamrat , Smith Yolanda Regina , Kaniecki Marie , Shannon Carol , August Ella T
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Health researchers from low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) are under-represented in the academic literature. Scientific writing and publishing interventions may help researchers publish their findings; however, we lack evidence about the prevalence and effectiveness of such interventions. This review describes interventions for researchers in LMICs aimed at strengthening capacity for writing and publishing academic journal articles.

Methods

We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to report literature searches in PubMed, Embase, Global Health, Scopus and ERIC. Our keywords included LMICs, low-income and middle-income countries, health research and writing/publication support interventions, with no restrictions on publication date. Our screening process consisted of title screening, abstract review and full-text review. We collected information about the content, implementation and evaluation of each intervention, if included.

Results

We identified 20 interventions designed to strengthen capacity for scientific writing and publishing. We summarised information from the 14 interventions that reported submitted or published papers as outcomes separately, reasoning that because they provide quantifiable metrics of success, they may offer particular insights into intervention components leading to publication. The writing and publishing components in this ‘Publications Reported’ group were an average length of 5.4 days compared with 2.5 days in the other group we refer to as ‘Other Interventions.’ Whereas all 14 Publications Reported interventions incorporated mentors, only two of five in the Other Interventions group incorporated mentors. Across interventions, leaders expressed the importance of a high ratio of mentors to participants, the need to accommodate time demands of busy researchers, and the necessity of a budget for open access fees and high-quality internet connectivity.

Conclusion

Writing and publishing interventions in LMICs are an underutilised opportunity for capacity strengthening. To facilitate the implementation of high-quality interventions, future writing and publishing interventions should share their experiences by publishing detailed information about the approach and effectiveness of the interventions.
Experiences of pain in paediatric chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis: a single-centre qualitative study
Authors: Serafimova Teona , Ascough Caitlin , Parslow Roxanne Morin , Crawley Esther
Published: February 2022

Background

Moderate to severe pain affects up to two-thirds of children with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) and is associated with worse fatigue and physical functioning. This research aims to gain a greater insight into pain experienced by these children.

Methods

Thematic analysis of qualitative data from semistructured interviews with 13 children with CFS/ME (mean age=15.3 years, 67% female) was completed.

Results

Thematic analysis enabled construction of three themes: children’s wide-ranging experiences of pain, negative impact of pain and lack of effective treatment for pain and nine subthemes. The first theme demonstrated highly varied pain experiences, ranging from ‘like [being]… on fire’, like ‘being stabbed’ to ‘like…lead’. Children experienced pain in multiple sites and with wide-ranging frequency and severity. The second theme highlighted the profound negative impact of pain on multiple aspects of children’s lives. Physical activity was severely impaired; some children ‘couldn’t leave bed’ or ‘couldn’t…brush [their] own hair’. Abdominal pain meant some would ‘go…days without eating’. Pain substantially impacted on mental health, leaving children feeling ‘agitated’, experiencing ‘really bad panic attacks’ or making them ‘[want to] breakdown’. Children felt they ‘can’t do the things that everyone else can do’, had ‘missed out’ and are ‘behind everyone’. Some avoided socialising as they ‘don’t want to stop everyone else’. The final theme demonstrates the absence of adequate treatment for pain, with participants reporting ‘nothing has ever really got rid of it’ and only ‘slightly [takes] the edge off’ and other experiencing side effects.

Conclusions

Pain in paediatric CFS/ME is highly variable, common and often results in severe physical limitation and poor mental health. Effective treatments for pain represent an unmet need.
Use of melatonin: a single-centre audit
Authors: Dack Rebecca , Garstang Joanna J
Published: February 2022

Sleep disorders in childhood are common. Melatonin is prescribed by UK community paediatricians to treat sleep disorders, but practice is not standardised. This audit reviewed melatonin prescribing within a community paediatric department in a 12-month period. 682 children received melatonin prescriptions; a random sample of 198 records were reviewed. The most common underlying condition was autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 28%. 41% had no underlying diagnosis when melatonin was initiated and were waiting for neurodevelopmental/ASD assessment. 42% were on melatonin for at least 2 years. Further work is required to optimise melatonin prescribing practice for children and young people.
Muscle-Strengthening Exercise Questionnaire (MSEQ): an assessment of concurrent validity and test–retest reliability
Authors: Shakespear-Druery Jane , De Cocker Katrien , Biddle Stuart J H , Bennie Jason
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE) has multiple independent health benefits and is a component of global physical activity guidelines. However, the assessment of MSE in health surveillance is often limited to the constructs of frequency (days/week), with little focus on constructs such as MSE type, muscle groups targeted and intensity. This study describes the test–retest reliability and concurrent validity of the Muscle-Strengthening Exercise Questionnaire (MSEQ), which was developed to assess multiple MSE participation constructs.

Methods

The MSEQ was developed to assess the weekly frequency, session duration and intensity, types of MSE (eg, weight machines, bodyweight exercise) and muscle groups targeted. Two convenience samples of adult participants were recruited. Test–retest reliability was completed online by 85 participants. Concurrent validity was assessed for 54 participants using an online 7-day MSE log.

Results

The MSEQ shows high test–retest reliability for frequency, duration and level of intensity for each of the four MSE types (using weight machines, bodyweight exercises, resistance exercises and holistic exercises), and for the four types combined (ρ range 0.76–0.91). For muscle groups targeted, the reliability ranged mostly from moderate-to-substantial for each of the four MSE types (κ range 0.44–0.78) and fair-to-moderate for the four types combined (κ range 0.35–0.51). Concurrent validity for frequency, duration and level of intensity for each of the four MSE types, and the four types combined, was moderate-to-high (ρ range 0.30–0.77).

Conclusion

The MSEQ shows acceptable reliability and validity for four key MSE constructs. This new MSEQ survey instrument could be used to assess adults’ MSE.
Iberdomide in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, ascending-dose, phase 2a study
Authors: Furie Richard A , Hough Douglas R , Gaudy Allison , Ye Ying , Korish Shimon , Delev Nikolay , Weiswasser Michael , Zhan Xiaojiang , Schafer Peter H , Werth Victoria P
Published: February 2022

Objective

To evaluate safety, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and efficacy of iberdomide in patients with SLE. Iberdomide is a high-affinity cereblon ligand that targets the hematopoietic transcription factors Ikaros and Aiolos for proteasomal degradation.

Methods

A 12-week, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-escalation study in active SLE was followed by a 2-year, open-label active treatment extension phase (ATEP) (NCT02185040). In the dose-escalation phase, adults with active SLE were randomised to oral placebo or iberdomide (0.3 mg every other day, 0.3 mg once daily, 0.6 mg and 0.3 mg alternating once daily, or 0.6 mg once daily). Primary endpoints were safety and tolerability.

Results

The dose-escalation phase enrolled 42 patients, with 33 completing this phase and 17 patients enrolling into the ATEP. In the dose-escalation phase, the most common treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs; iberdomide/placebo groups) were nausea (20.6%/12.5%), diarrhoea (17.6%/12.5%) and upper respiratory tract infection (11.8%/12.5%). Most TEAEs were mild or moderate in severity and more common in the highest dose groups in both study phases. In the dose-escalation phase, Physician’s Global Assessment and Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) activity scores improved relative to baseline and placebo in all iberdomide groups, with a trend toward continued score improvements in the ATEP. In the dose-escalation phase, iberdomide treatment resulted in dose-dependent reductions in total B cells and plasmacytoid dendritic cells in blood. Improvements in CLASI activity scores correlated with plasmacytoid dendritic cell depletion.

Conclusions

These proof-of-concept findings suggest a favourable benefit/risk ratio in SLE for iberdomide, a drug with a novel immunomodulatory mechanism of action, supporting further clinical investigation.
Cerebral neurovascular embryology, anatomic variations, and congenital brain arteriovenous lesions
Authors: Klostranec Jesse M , Krings Timo
Published: February 2022

Cerebral neurovascular development is a complex and coordinated process driven by the changing spatial and temporal metabolic demands of the developing brain. Familiarity with the process is helpful in understanding neurovascular anatomic variants and congenital arteriovenous shunting lesions encountered in endovascular neuroradiological practice. Herein, the processes of vasculogenesis and angiogenesis are reviewed, followed by examination of the morphogenesis of the cerebral arterial and venous systems. Common arterial anatomic variants are reviewed with an emphasis on their development. Finally, endothelial genetic mutations affecting angiogenesis are examined to consider their probable role in the development of three types of congenital brain arteriovenous fistulas: vein of Galen malformations, pial arteriovenous fistulas, and dural sinus malformations.
Ropivacaine-loaded, hydroxypropyl chitin thermo-sensitive hydrogel combined with hyaluronan: an injectable, sustained-release system for providing long-lasting local anesthesia in rats
Authors: Qiao Qianqian , Fu Xiangyun , Huang Rui , Lei Shaoqing , Leng Yan , Liu Zhigang , Xia Zhongyuan , Jiang Xulin
Published: February 2022

Background and objective

Ropivacaine hydrochloride is a commonly used local anesthetic in clinics. However, local injection or continuous infusion of ropivacaine has been associated with several disadvantages. Accordingly, it is important to develop a new controlled release system for local administration of ropivacaine to achieve a prolong anesthetic effect, improve efficacy, and minimize the side effects.

Methods

We developed injectable hydroxypropyl chitin thermo-sensitive hydrogel (HPCH) combined with hyaluronan (HA), which was used to synthesize a ropivacaine (R)-loaded controlled release system. We then conducted drug release test and cytotoxicity assay in vitro. Importantly, we examined the analgesic effects and biocompatibility of this system in vivo by injecting different concentrations of R-HPCH-HA (7.5, 15, 22.5 mg/mL), ropivacaine hydrochloride (RHCL, 7.5 mg/mL), or saline (all in 0.5 mL) near the sciatic nerve in rats.

Results

R-HPCH-HA induced concentration-dependent thermal-sensory blockade and motor blockade in vivo. In hot plate test, R-HPCH-HA (22.5 mg/mL) induced a significant longer thermal-sensory blockade (17.7±0.7 hours), as compared with RHCL(7.5 mg/mL, 5.7±0.8 hours, n=6/group, p<0.05). It also produced a more prolonged motor blockade (6.8±0.8 hours) than RHCL(3.5±0.8 hours, p<0.05). R-HPCH-HA caused less cytotoxicity than RHCL, as indicated by the higher cell viability in vitro (n=8/group).

Conclusion

Our findings in a sciatic nerve block model demonstrated that the injectable, ropivacaine-loaded controlled release system effectively prolonged the local analgesic effect in rats without notable side effects.
Association between fetal famine exposure and risk of type 2 diabetes: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Cun , Luo Xiaoyan , Tao Boni , Du Wei , Hou Liying , Chen Shuohua , Yang Peng , Wu Shouling , Li Yun
Published: February 2022

The objective of this study was to explore the effects of fetal experience of famine on the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in adults. The analysis included 16 594 participants from the Kailuan Study who were free of diabetes at baseline (2006). According to the date of birth, the individuals born on October 1, 1962 – September 30, 1964, were divided into the non-exposed group (used as the reference group), individuals born on October 1, 1959 – September 30, 1961, were divided into the fetal exposure group, and the early childhood exposure group included those born on October 1, 1956 – September 30, 1958. The cumulative incidence of T2DM for each group was calculated and compared among the 3 groups, and the Cox regression model was used to analyze the effects of fetal famine experience on the risk of diabetes. During a median 10.27 years (170 358 person-years) (2006–2017), 3509 incident T2DM cases were identified, with a cumulative incidence rate of 19.46%. The cumulative incidences of T2DM in the non-exposed, fetal exposure, and early childhood exposure groups were 17.38%, 20.85%, and 20.65%, respectively (P < 0.01). After adjusting for confounding factors, the hazard ratio (HR) of T2DM in the fetal exposure group was 1.222 (95% confidence interval: 1.087–1.374, P < 0.01), compared with the reference group. The association was modified by sex and hypertension (both P interaction less than 0.05). Fetal famine exposure may increase the risk of developing T2DM in adults. This association was more pronounced among women and those with hypertension.

Novelty: The association was modified by sex and hypertension. Long follow-up time.
Tidal deformation and radial pulsations of neutron star with holographic multiquark core
Authors: Pinkanjanarod Sitthichai , Burikham Piyabut , Ponglertsakul Supakchai
Published: February 2022

Tidal deformation of neutron star with multiquark core is calculated using nuclear and multiquark equations of state. The equation of state of the multiquark phase from the holographic Sakai-Sugimoto (SS) model is relatively stiff in the low density region and becomes softer at high densities. The values of Love number and dimensionless deformation parameter, $$k_{2}$$

k
2

and $$\Lambda $$
Λ
, are found to be within the physically viable range under the present constraints. Radial pulsation frequencies of the multiquark core for $$n=0-5$$

n
=
0
-
5

modes are calculated for the entire mass range. For $$M_{\mathrm{core}}\simeq 2 M_{\odot }$$

M
core

≃
2

M
⊙

, the fundamental-mode frequency is approximately 2.5 kHz for the energy density scale $$\epsilon _{s}=23.2037$$

ϵ
s

=
23.2037

GeV/fm$$^{3}$$

3

of the holographic SS model, this frequency is proportional to $$\sqrt{\epsilon _{s}}$$

ϵ
s

.
How does the IFRS adoption affect systematic versus idiosyncratic risks of French listed companies?
Authors: Bouden Habiba Mrissa , Saada Moufida Ben
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we explore the impact of International Accounting Standards/International Financial Reporting Standards (IAS/IFRS) adoption on the French listed firms’ pricing in terms of performance, systematic risk aversion, idiosyncratic and systematic risks from 2001 to 2008. Unlike previous studies, we adopt a risk decomposition into systematic and idiosyncratic components to study the IAS/IFRS adoption effect. A modified market model (MMM) is used to allow time-varying variance on the one hand, and parameters changing over periods on the other hand. Our findings show that IFRS adoption reduces idiosyncratic risk, leads to a vanish in systematic risk, increases the systematic risk aversion, and improves the speed of information adjustment. We underscore the role of IFRS in enhancing the stocks’ informational efficiency. Our results help investors in their investment decisions as well as accounting professionals and market makers in the design of relevant accounting and financial policies.
Two-scale modeling of nano-clay-filled shape memory polymers
Authors: Salman M. , Guski V. , Schmauder S.
Published: February 2022

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are introduced as polymers that have the ability to return to their early programmed shape after exposure to an external stimulus. Enhancement of the material with nano-clay filler has improved its thermomechanical properties and increased the range of its applications in many fields of industry. Due to the tiny size of filler and the heterogeneous nature of the material structure at different scale levels, characterizing the material’s thermomechanical flow using conventional experimental equipment is a far-fetched task. Furthermore, providing one numerical model that is able to simulate the material thermomechanical behavior by including all the effects of the lower scale material structure is also very hard. In this study, a two-scale modeling approach is developed by a combination of the numerical homogenization scheme, 3D Representative Volume Element (RVE) concept, and finite element method. The effects of the filler weight fractions on the overall effective elastic constants as well as the material flow under a finite deformation are investigated. The resulting elastic constants and the stress–strain curves show a fairly good agreement with the analytical results. Furthermore, all the investigated results provide a deep understanding of the material behavior and a starting point for the next higher scale level modeling approaches.
Next2You: Robust Copresence Detection Based on Channel State Information
Authors: Fomichev Mikhail , Abanto-leon Luis F. , Stiegler Max , Molina Alejandro , Link Jakob , Hollick Matthias
Published: February 2022

Context-based copresence detection schemes are a necessary prerequisite to building secure and usable authentication systems in theInternet of Things (IoT). Such schemes allow one device to verify proximity of another device without user assistance utilizing their physical context (e.g., audio). The state-of-the-art copresence detection schemes suffer from two major limitations: (1) They cannot accurately detect copresence in low-entropy context (e.g., empty room with few events occurring) and insufficiently separated environments (e.g., adjacent rooms), (2) They require devices to have common sensors (e.g., microphones) to capture context, making them impractical on devices with heterogeneous sensors. We address these limitations, proposingNext2You, a novel copresence detection scheme utilizing channel state information (CSI). In particular, we leverage magnitude and phase values from a range of subcarriers specifying a Wi-Fi channel to capture a robust wireless context created when devices communicate. We implementNext2Youon off-the-shelf smartphones relying only on ubiquitous Wi-Fi chipsets and evaluate it based on over 95 hours of CSI measurements that we collect in five real-world scenarios.Next2Youachieves error rates below 4%, maintaining accurate copresence detection both in low-entropy context and insufficiently separated environments. We also demonstrate the capability ofNext2Youto work reliably in real-time and its robustness to various attacks.
Nonhuman Primates in Translational Research
Authors: Tarantal Alice F. , Noctor Stephen C. , Hartigan-O'Connor Dennis J.
Published: February 2022

Nonhuman primates are critically important animal models in which to study complex human diseases, understand biological functions, and address the safety of new diagnostics and therapies proposed for human use. They have genetic, physiologic, immunologic, and developmental similarities when compared to humans and therefore provide important preclinical models of human health and disease. This review highlights select research areas that demonstrate the importance of nonhuman primates in translational research. These include pregnancy and developmental disorders, infectious diseases, gene therapy, somatic cell genome editing, and applications of in vivo imaging. The power of the immune system and our increasing understanding of the role it plays in acute and chronic illnesses are being leveraged to produce new treatments for a range of medical conditions. Given the importance of the human immune system in health and disease, detailed study of the immune system of nonhuman primates is essential to advance preclinical translational research. The need for nonhuman primates continues to remain a high priority, which has been acutely evident during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) global pandemic. Nonhuman primates will continue to address key questions and provide predictive models to identify the safety and efficiency of new diagnostics and therapies for human use across the lifespan.
Zoning, Land Use, and the Reproduction of Urban Inequality
Authors: Lens Michael C.
Published: February 2022

Zoning determines what can be built where, and is ubiquitous in the United States. Low-density residential zoning predominates in US cities far more than in other countries, limiting housing opportunities for those who cannot afford large homes. These zoning regulations have racist and classist origins, make housing more expensive, and reinforce segregation patterns. While sociologists study these consequences of zoning, and other causes of unaffordable housing and segregation, they rarely examine zoning itself. This article argues for a sociological research agenda on zoning and land use.
Effect of Lithium Sulfate on the Catalytic Activity of Pt for Hydrogen Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Faral Manon , Sacré Nicolas , Chenitz Régis , Mokrini Asmae , Bibienne Thomas , Laroche Nicolas , Dollé Mickael
Published: February 2022

The effect of Lithium sulfate on the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) in 0.1 M H2SO4 electrolyte was investigated on flat Pt electrode. The Li+ concentration solutions of 0, 10, 25 and 32 g l−1 were studied using cyclic voltammetry and rotating disk electrode (RDE) techniques. The obtained results demonstrate a good repeatability and confidence in analysis method, to understand the influence of lithium sulfate on HOR for an electrocatalysis system. The electrochemical surface area, limiting current and kinetic parameters were measured and analysed using Koutecky-Levich and Tafel representations to investigates the different types of lithium sulfate interactions on the catalytic properties of Pt. In presence of Li2SO4, the H+ adsorption/desorption process, species mass-transport and kinetic current density are reduced. Furthermore, the Tafel’s slope analyse show a change of the rate-determining steps for HOR mechanism. More detailed results of the kinetic analysis and lithium impact on the studied systems are discussed in this work.
Corrosion Mechanism of Microporous Nickel-Chromium Coatings: Part II. SECM Study Monitoring Cu2+ and Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Ganborena Larraitz , Gonzalez-Garcia Yaiza , Özkaya Berkem , García Marta , García-Lecina Eva , Vega Jesús Manuel
Published: February 2022

The corrosion mechanism of microporous nickel-chromium multilayer coatings was studied at localised scale by Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy (SECM) after exposure to an aggressive electrolyte (chloride-based one at pH 3.1 containing cupric ions). The open circuit potential was initially monitored during 22 h, followed by a detailed characterisation using Glow Discharge-Optical Emission Spectroscopy and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope. Interestingly, Cu deposition occurs over the surface of the microporous nickel layer, and it is located on spots where micro-discontinuities (i.e., cracks and pores) of the outermost Cr layer are present. The application of different operation modes of the SECM (i.e., redox competition and surface generation/tip collection) not only reveals such copper deposits (which were identified after monitoring their catalytic capabilities for oxygen reduction reaction) but also confirms the stepwise reduction of Cu2+ to Cu0 (via intermediate species of Cu+) during the corrosion process. The impact of metallic copper particles in the local pH due to their catalytic activity could also explain why the microporous nickel layer is not corroded after exposure to such electrolyte.
Untold Stories of Women in Electrochemistry: Vicenta Arnal, a Spanish Scientist in the 1930s
Authors: Palacin M. Rosa , García Gemma , Nieto-Galan Agustí
Published: February 2022

This paper examines Vicenta Arnal Yarza’s (1902–1960) life and scientific contributions to electrochemistry in the late 1920s and the 1930s. In Spain, this was a time of ambitious programs to modernize and internationalize scientific research, which included the training and career promotion of some women. Vicenta Arnal’s pathway shifted from the early years of her international scientific education with top scientists in the field to a domestic career devoted to improving the teaching and popularizing of chemistry under the constraints of the Franco dictatorship, which brought about a dramatic regression in gender equity.
Vibration Measurement of a Metal Sheet Using Single-Camera Digital Image Correlation with Projection Components
Authors: Liang Z. H. , Yue L.
Published: February 2022

Digital image correlation has emerged as a popular method for the dynamic performance measurement of metallic and polymer sheets, owing to the benefits of being a noncontact, full-field, and high-precision method. Two or more high-speed cameras are required for full-field vibration measurements with three-dimensional digital image correlation, which is generally costly. Perpendicular view to the specimen surface is conventional in two-dimensional digital image correlation, and the out-of-plane displacement is regarded as a part of systematic errors. In this study, a single view method was implemented with no complex optical settings. The full-field vibration displacement of the metal sheet was measured with projection components, and the first four orders of displacement modes were identified. Finite element analysis and traditional experimental modal analysis were then implemented to validate the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed approach. The results show that the dynamic parameters, including the natural frequencies and mode shapes, were well consistent. Meanwhile, there is a significant difference in the length of mode shape vectors. The number of measurement points in the proposed method is 2016, which is far more than the number of measurement points in the traditional experimental modal analysis. This would be convenient and beneficial for damage identification towards thin-wall parts including turbine blade with the continuum hypothesis of mode shapes and a single-camera DIC system. It is worth noting that this is effective with conditions of small deformation vibration and no rigid-body rotation.
Molecular Determination of Toxigenic Potential of Fusarium spp. Isolated from Seeds of Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Genotypes and Evaluation of Levels of Fumonisins in the Grains at Harvest in Three Major Wheat Producing Counties in Kenya
Authors: Otieno Phanice Kheseli , Imbahale Susan S. , Wekesa Vitalis Wafula , Otipa Miriam , Okoth Sheila
Published: February 2022

Infestation of cereals such as wheat by pathogenic Fusarium species (Fusarium spp.) is associated with over 25% weight loss of the grain and accumulation of hazardous mycotoxins. Potential management strategies against the pathogens include the development of more resistant wheat genotypes and the development of rapid and accurate Fusarium spp. identification methods, among other control measures. This study evaluated the toxigenic potential in populations of Fusarium spp. isolated from seeds of locally developed wheat genotypes and levels of fumonisins in the grains at harvest in three counties in Kenya. The sampling of the wheat grains took place between September 2016 and October 2017. Determination of toxigenic potential was PCR based using Tri13F/Tri13DONR and FUM1F/FUM1R specific primer pairs while detection of fumonisin levels was done using Total Fumonisin Assay 0.25/5.0 ELISA kit. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and the Tukey HSD test. FUM1 gene was detected in 60% of the Fusarium spp. analyzed. The distribution of the gene within the isolates across the three regions was as follows: Narok: 54%, Uasin Gishu: 25%, and Nakuru: 21%. Tri13DON gene was not detected in the assessed potential deoxynivalenol (DON) producers. Fumonisin levels in the wheat samples from the three counties were significantly different (

p
<
0.001

). The highest fumonisin levels, 9.6 ppm, occurred in 30.7% of the grains of the studied wheat genotypes. Relatively high fumonisin levels occurred in Njoro II, Eagle 10, Robin, and Korongo wheat genotypes with no significant difference at 0.05 confidence interval. In conclusion, the toxigenic potential amongst the Fusarium spp. studied was confirmed based on the occurrence of FUM1 gene and the detection of fumonisins in 76% of the sampled wheat grains. More research is recommended to ascertain the prevalence of the genes determining the production of DON and the other trichothecenes in Fusarium spp. prevalent in the developed wheat genotypes in the different agroecological regions in Kenya. In addition, the assessment of the occurrence and levels of the respectful mycotoxins also needs further research. These would provide additional information for the improvement of strategies put in place to manage the effects of the pathogenic Fusarium spp. in the crop and to ensure mycotoxin safety of the wheat food chain for both livestock and human consumption. It also shows the need for the development of more disease-resistant wheat varieties by wheat seed-producing companies.
Coherent Photoproduction of Low-

p

T

Charmonium in Peripheral Heavy Ion Collisions within the Color Dipole Model
Authors: Yu Gongming , Cai Yanbing , Fu Yongping , Yang Haitao , Gao Quangui , Hu Qiang , Hu Liyuan , Li Wei , Song Yushou
Published: February 2022

We calculate the centrality dependence for coherent photoproduction of very low-

p

T

J
/
ψ

at Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) and Large Hadron Collider (LHC) energies within the impact parameter-dependent saturated color dipole model. By using the large equivalent photon fluxes, we present the differential cross-section of very low-

p

T

J
/
ψ

produced by coherent photonuclear in peripheral heavy ion collisions. The numerical results demonstrate that our calculation agrees with

J
/
ψ

data in peripheral heavy ion collisions at Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) energies.
Optimization on Tribological Behaviour of AA7178/Nano Titanium Diboride Hybrid Composites Employing Taguchi Techniques
Authors: Chattoraj Priyanka , Prabhakar Parimala , Koti Vishwanath , Natarajan N. Suganya , Lakshminarayana M. , Arul K. , Venkatachalapathy M. , Ahamed Maqusood , Karnan M. , Kumar S. Praveen
Published: February 2022

This article evaluates the effect of wear parameters on composite materials. Aluminium alloy 7178 alloys with various nano titanium diboride weight percentages were prepared using stir casting. A pin‐and‐disc test rig was utilized to carry out the dry sliding wear test. Using Taguchi’s experiments for optimization, the L27 orthogonal array was designed (D.O.E.). The SNR and ANOVA techniques were used to identify the percentage of responses attributable to the input parameters. Both the wear rate and coefficient of friction increased with higher loading levels. This parameter, load intensity, had the most significant influence on wear rate and C.O.F. and sliding distance and velocity. Material removal was prevented at all times by nano titanium diboride particles embedded in the matrix alloy. AA7178 was treated with nano titanium diboride particles to improve its wear resistance.
MRI and DC/TMD Methods Analyze the Diagnostic Accuracy of the Change in Articular Disc of Temporomandibular Joint
Authors: Shen Shan , Ye Mingjun , Wu Mingle , Zhou Wencheng , Xu Sanghui
Published: February 2022

Object. The diagnostic superiority of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) over temporomandibular joint disc (TMJ) changes was investigated by comparing the diagnostic results of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and DC/TM. Methods. DC/TMD clinical questionnaire diagnosis was conducted for 30 patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and 11 asymptomatic volunteers who were admitted to the Department of Oral Medicine of the First Hospital affiliated with Jinan University from June 2020 to June 2021. At the same time, MRI scanned the opening and closed positions to obtain the image information of the articular disc and compared the diagnostic difference between MRI and DC/TMD to the position of the articular disc through statistical analysis. Results. The probability of DC/TMD’s diagnosis of reusable/nonreusable anterior disc displacement (ADD) was 80.1% and 62.7%, respectively. Conclusion. DC/TMD’s diagnosis of abnormal articular disc position is less accurate than MRI testing. Therefore, the diagnosis of these two diseases for DC/TMD examination is of little significance, and MRI examination is required at the same time. It can improve diagnosis specificity and sensitivity, reduce missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis rates to ensure that true positive patients can be detected in time, and establish a basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Waterborne Antifouling Paints Containing Nanometric Copper and Silver against Marine Bacillus Species
Authors: Loredo-Becerra G. M. , Durán-Almendárez A. , Calvillo-Anguiano A. K. , DeAlba-Montero I. , Hernández-Arteaga L. O. , Ruiz F.
Published: February 2022

Due to the concern to find an alternative to reduce the colonization (microfouling and macrofouling) or the biocorrosion of surfaces submerged for long periods in water, we evaluated the antifouling activity of a commercial paint added with silver nanoparticles (AgNP’s) and copper nanoparticles (CuNP’s), beside copper‐soybean chelate, by electrolytic synthesis, using them in low concentrations (6.94E − 04 mg Ag g−1 paint, 9.07E − 03 mg Cu g−1 paint, and 1.14E − 02 mg Cu g−1 paint, respectively). The test for paint samples was carried out by JIS Z2801‐ISO 22196 for periods of initial time, 6 months, and 12 months, against three bacterial strains of marine origin, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilus, and Bacillus altitudinis. It was possible to demonstrate, according to the standard, that the sample with the greatest antimicrobial activity was the copper‐soybean chelate against two of the three strains studied (B. pumilus with R = 2.11 and B. subtilis with R = 2.41), which represents more than 99% of bacterial inhibition. Therefore, we considered a novel option for inhibiting bacterial growth with nanoparticles as antifouling additives.
Inverse Problem for the Schrödinger Equation in Dimension 3
Authors: Ndiaye Fagueye
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we consider the Schrödinger equation in the unit ball in ℝ3. We study the inverse problem of identifying the potential q from the Dirichlet to Neumann map which associates to all possible functions f on the boundary ∂B and the measurements of the normal derivative of the solution of Schrödinger equation ∂u/∂ν on ∂B. Using spherical harmonics tools, we determine an explicit expression for the potential q(x) on the edge of the domain from an explicit formula for the Dirichlet to Neumann map in a unit ball in dimension 3. We theoretically and numerically present an example.
Mechanism Analysis of the Influence of Freeze-Thaw on the Damage and Debonding Evolution of Sandstone-Concrete Interface
Authors: Shen Yanjun , Luo Tao , Wei Xin , Li Xueting , Jin Long , Wen Liangdong , Peng Hui , Ji Yanjun
Published: February 2022

During tunnel construction in cold regions, the good adhesion of surrounding rock-lining interface is one of the important preconditions to evaluate the durability of tunnel lining. However, the repeated fatigue damage between rock and concrete due to the freeze-thaw action leads to debonding at the interface, which significantly affects the protective effect of shotcrete. Accordingly, based on the combination of sandstone-concrete as the object, through the development of sandstone-concrete interface freeze-thaw cycling test, and combining the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, the mechanism of debonding by freeze-thaw damage at the sandstone-concrete interface was systematically revealed. The conclusions drawn are as follows: (1) With the increase of freeze-thaw times, the content of micropores and macropores at the interface gradually increases, while the content of mesoporous gradually decreases. At the same time, the decrease of freeze-thaw temperature also aggravates the growth of interface cracks, and the freeze-thaw damage of interface is closely related to the minimum freeze-thaw temperature. (2) The damage of the sandstone side becomes more serious under multiple freeze-thaw actions. Concrete as a water retaining plate inhibits the migration of water to its interior, and a pot cover effect exists at the interface to provide better storage space for water accumulation. (3) The C-S-H group is the main source of the bond force of sandstone-concrete interface, and the freeze-thaw effect aggravates the fracture of the C-S-H group, which leads to the interface debonding. This study could provide an experimental basis and theoretical support for systematically recognizing the evolution mechanism of freeze-thaw damage and debonding of shotcrete in tunnels in cold regions.
SHMT2 Drives the Progression of Colorectal Cancer by Regulating UHRF1 Expression
Authors: Cui Ximao , Cui Yanfen , Du Tao , Jiang Xiaohua , Song Chun , Zhang Shun , Ma Chiye , Liu Yun , Ni Qing , Gao Yuzhe , Wang Guanghui
Published: February 2022

Introduction. Serine hydroxymethyltransferase 2 (SHMT2) has a critical role in serine-glycine metabolism to drive cancer cell proliferation. Yet, the function of SHMT2 in tumorigenesis, especially in human colorectal cancer (CRC) progression, remains largely unclear. Materials and Methods. CRC and paired normal samples were collected in the Department of Colorectal Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis, western blot (WB), and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Moreover, SHMT2 expression in human CRC cells was identified by qPCR and WB. The CRC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion after SHMT2 knockdown were explored through in vitro and in vivo assays. mRNA-seq assays were used to investigate the underlying mechanisms behind the SHMT2 function. Results. It was found that SHMT2 mRNA and protein were overexpressed in CRC tissue compared to the levels in normal mucosa. Positive expression of SHMT2 was significantly correlated with TNM stage and lymph node metastasis, and elevated expression of SHMT2 resulted as an independent prognostic factor in patients with CRC. SHMT2 knockdown impaired the proliferation of CRC in vitro and in vivo and induced cell cycle arrest by regulating UHRF1 expression. Conclusion. Taken together, our findings reveal that UHRF1 is a novel target gene of SHMT2, which can be used as a potential therapeutic strategy for CRC therapy.
Theory and Numerical Simulation of Deep Rock Mass Based on a Non-Euclidean Model
Authors: Bao Yingji , Jiang Binsong
Published: February 2022

Rock masses existing in nature may experience closed internal stress under the action of geological structures. This closed internal stress makes the deformation of the rock mass incompatible, so classic continuum theory is not suitable for analyzing the stress and deformation of rock masses. In this study, a non-Euclidean model for rock masses was established based on differential geometry. By choosing the non-Euclidean parameter as the internal variable, a thermodynamic model was constructed. Then, numerical computation based on the non-Euclidean model was applied to a circular tunnel in a deep rock mass. The distribution of internal stress and the effects of rock parameters on the distribution of internal stress were analyzed. Through our research, we conclude that the stress field of the deep rock mass consists of classical stress and internal stress and that the internal stress shows a distinct wavy behavior. The radius of the fractured zone decreases with an increasing Young’s modulus E and Poisson’s ratio

v

, but increases with increasing non-Euclidean parameter ξ.