bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive but Not Affective Theory of Mind Deficits in Progressive MS
Authors: Lancaster Katie , Stone Eric M. , Genova Helen M.
Published: June 2019

Objective:

Social cognitive deficits are an important consequence of multiple sclerosis (MS), yet our understanding of how these deficits manifest in progressive MS is currently limited. To this end, we examined theory of mind (ToM) ability in a sample of individuals with progressive MS using an ecologically valid virtual assessment tool that allows for delineation of cognitive ToM (inferring thoughts and intentions of others) from affective ToM (inferring emotions of others).

Methods & Results:

We compared 15 individuals with progressive MS and 15 healthy controls on their ToM ability using the Virtual Assessment of Mentalising Ability. We found that, relative to healthy controls, participants with progressive MS were impaired in cognitive ToM, but not in affective ToM. Furthermore, we found that the MS participants’ deficits in cognitive ToM were mediated by their general cognitive ability such that poor cognitive ToM ability in MS was explained by poor performance on tests of memory and processing speed.

Conclusions:

Our findings demonstrate that ToM deficits in progressive MS may be limited to cognitive ToM, while affective ToM is conserved. This could be attributable to the MS-related deficits in general cognitive ability, which appear to negatively affect only the cognitive component of ToM.
Understanding heritage languages
Authors: Polinsky Maria , Scontras Gregory
Published: June 2019

With a growing interest in heritage languages from researchers of bilingualism and linguistic theory, the field of heritage-language studies has begun to build on its empirical foundations, moving toward a deeper understanding of the nature of language competence under unbalanced bilingualism. In furtherance of this trend, the current work synthesizes pertinent empirical observations and theoretical claims about vulnerable and robust areas of heritage language competence into early steps toward a model of heritage-language grammar. We highlight two key triggers for deviation from the relevant baseline: the quantity and quality of the input from which the heritage grammar is acquired, and the economy of online resources when operating in a less dominant language. In response to these triggers, we identify three outcomes of deviation in the heritage grammar: an avoidance of ambiguity, a resistance to irregularity, and a shrinking of structure. While we are still a ways away from a level of understanding that allows us to predict those aspects of heritage grammar that will be robust and those that will deviate from the relevant baselines, our hope is that the current work will spur the continued development of a predictive model of heritage language competence.
Estimation of conditional mean squared error of prediction for claims reserving
Authors: Lindholm Mathias , Lindskog Filip , Wahl Felix
Published: June 2019

This paper studies estimation of the conditional mean squared error of prediction, conditional on what is known at the time of prediction. The particular problem considered is the assessment of actuarial reserving methods given data in the form of run-off triangles (trapezoids), where the use of prediction assessment based on out-of-sample performance is not an option. The prediction assessment principle advocated here can be viewed as a generalisation of Akaike’s final prediction error. A direct application of this simple principle in the setting of a data-generating process given in terms of a sequence of general linear models yields an estimator of the conditional mean squared error of prediction that can be computed explicitly for a wide range of models within this model class. Mack’s distribution-free chain ladder model and the corresponding estimator of the prediction error for the ultimate claim amount are shown to be a special case. It is demonstrated that the prediction assessment principle easily applies to quite different data-generating processes and results in estimators that have been studied in the literature.
Re-imagining Petitioning in Spain (1808–1823)
Authors: Cerezales Diego Palacios
Published: June 2019

This article examines collective petitioning in metropolitan Spain during the Age of Revolution, focusing on the practices and discourses that framed petitioning as a meaningful form of action. There was a deeply rooted tradition of petitioning in old regime Spain, which was part of the ordinary bureaucratic workings of the crown and also provided a legitimizing framework for rioting in specific contexts. The collective experimentation in popular participation after the 1808 Napoleonic invasion transformed petitioning. Petitioning was first reconceptualized in accordance with the emerging language of rights and popular sovereignty. Activists and commentators had some awareness of the use of public petitioning in Britain, and once the representative Cortes met in Cadiz in 1810, public petition drives on public issues became part of the political culture. At the same time, the need to legitimate unconventional forms of action in the context of a crisis in the state converted petitioning into an all-embracing right. The right to petition, not only encompassed signed protest texts but also legitimated the old tradition of petitioning by riot and further was used to justify provincial rebellions, juntas, and military pronunciamientos. In comparative terms, this article highlights the elasticity of the language of petitioning during the Age of Revolution and cautions against narrowly associating it with one particular form of collective action or historical trajectory.
Pre- and Perinatal Characteristics Associated with Apgar Scores in a Review and in a New Study of Dutch Twins
Authors: Odintsova Veronika V. , Dolan Conor V. , van Beijsterveldt Catharina E. M. , de Zeeuw Eveline L. , van Dongen Jenny , Boomsma Dorret I.
Published: June 2019

A literature review was carried out to identify pre and perinatal characteristics associated with variation in Apgar scores in population-based studies. The parameters identified in the literature search were included in the classical twin design study to estimate effects of pre and perinatal factors shared and nonshared by twins and to test for a contribution of genetic factors in 1- and 5-min Apgar scores in a large sample of Dutch monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins. The sample included MZ and DZ twins (N= 5181 pairs) recruited by the Netherlands Twin Register shortly after birth, with data on prenatal characteristics and Apgar scores at first and/or fifth minutes. The ordinal regression and structural equation modeling were used to analyze the effects of characteristics identified in the literature review and to estimate genetic and nongenetic variance components. The literature review identified 63 papers. Consistent with the review, we observed statistically significant effects of birth order, zygosity and gestational age (GA) for 1- and 5-min Apgar scores of both twins. Apgar scores are higher in first-born versus second-born twins and DZ first-born versus MZ first-born twins. Birth weight had an effect on the 5-min Apgar of the first born. Fetal presentation and mode of delivery had different effects on Apgar scores of first- and second-born twins. Parental characteristics and chorionicity did not have significant main effects on Apgar scores. The MZ twins’ Apgar correlations equaled the DZ Apgar correlations. Our analyses suggest that individual differences in 1- and 5-min Apgar scores are attributable to shared and nonshared pre and perinatal factors, but not to genotypic factors of the newborns. The main predictors of Apgar scores are birth order, zygosity, GA, birth weight, mode of delivery and fetal presentation.
How Connecting Psychology and Implementation Science Supports Pursuing the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Schultes Marie-Therese , Bergsmann Evelyn , Brandt Laura , Finsterwald Monika , Kien Christina , Klug Julia
Published: June 2019

Abstract. Developing and implementing specific programs and interventions that target the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a complex endeavor that benefits from an interdisciplinary perspective. In this article, we describe how psychology and implementation science provide knowledge on (1) developing interventions and adapting existing programs to different contexts, (2) systematically and sustainably implementing interventions at different system levels, and (3) evaluating and monitoring the effectiveness of interventions in producing desired changes. By presenting tangible research examples, we discuss how psychological theories can help define didactic principles for educational interventions, how implementation frameworks may be applied for interventions in health care, and what indicators may be useful for measuring the attainment of gender equality at different system levels. These examples illustrate that including both psychology and implementation science in the interdisciplinary discourse of how to approach the SDGs is essential for achieving sustainable positive change.
Well-Being of Turkish and Moroccan Youth in the Netherlands
Authors: Horoz Nil , Huizink Anja C. , Delforterie Monique J. , Creemers Hanneke E.
Published: June 2019

Abstract. This study examined whether parental control, parental solicitation, and acculturation to the Dutch culture were related to the well-being of Dutch adolescents with Turkish and Moroccan backgrounds. Additionally, moderation by gender and ethnic background was tested. Cross-sectional data from 76 adolescents were used ( Mage = 16.7 years, female = 50%, Turkish background = 35.5%). Hierarchical regression analyses showed that parental solicitation was positively associated with well-being, whereas parental control and acculturation were not associated with well-being. Associations were similar between genders and ethnic backgrounds. Positive links between parental solicitation and well-being should not be overlooked, as well-being is critical for positive youth development, integration, and social cohesion.
Earth System Model Response to Large Midlatitude and High‐latitude Volcanic Eruptions
Authors: Obata Atsushi , Adachi Yukimasa
Published: June 2019

We used the Meteorological Research Institute Earth System Model to simulate the climate response to massive sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission from the volcanic eruptions of Paektusan (China/North Korea) and Eldgjá (Iceland) into the stratosphere in the tenth century Common Era (CE). Assuming 3 times the SO2 emission of the 1883 Krakatau eruption, as recorded by Greenland ice core sulfate concentrations, simulations of Paektusan and Eldgjá had roughly similar global mean impacts within 2 years of erupting: decreases in surface insolation (−10 W/m2, −5%), surface air temperature (−1 °C), land net primary production (NPP; −3 GtC/year, −5%), and soil respiration (−5 GtC/year, −10%). While both simulations had severe impacts on the extratropical Northern Hemisphere, the simulated response to Paektusan is twice as strong as Eldgjá in the tropics (cooling [1 °C], precipitation decrease [10%], and NPP increase [7%]). Simulation‐Eldgjá had almost no impact on the extratropical Southern Hemisphere because of its initial latitude. These regional differences combine so that Simulation‐Paektusan has slightly larger global mean impacts, including an atmospheric CO2 decrease of ~2 ppm. Tropical NPP primarily increases due to the fact that photosynthesis maximizes at temperatures below the tropical mean temperature and secondarily to the cooling‐induced decrease in respiration, which indicates relatively rich tropical harvests despite large volcanic eruptions. In contrast, the severe cooling (−2.5 °C) and decreased NPP (−20%) in the northern extratropics could mean poor harvests and famines, which can lead to social turmoil such as a rebellion in northeast Japan around the same time as the eruptions.
Building a One-Stop Shop for Soil Moisture Information
Authors: Clayton Jordan , Quiring Steven , Ochsner Tyson , Cosh Michael , Baker C. , Ford Trent , Bolten John , Woloszyn Molly
Published: June 2019

With a recent infusion of support from the federal government, the National Soil Moisture Network is moving ahead with its goal of integrating soil moisture data across the United States.
Shock Vaporization/Devolatilization of Evaporitic Minerals, Halite and Gypsum, in an Open System Investigated by a Two‐Stage Light Gas Gun
Authors: Kurosawa Kosuke , Moriwaki Ryota , Komatsu Goro , Okamoto Takaya , Sakuma Hiroshi , Yabuta Hikaru , Matsui Takafumi
Published: June 2019

Dry lakebeds might constitute large volatile reservoirs on Mars. Hypervelocity impacts onto ancient dry lakebeds would have affected the volatile distribution on Mars. We developed a new experimental method to investigate the response of evaporitic minerals (halite and gypsum) to impact shocks in an open system. This technique does not result in chemical contamination from the operation of the gas gun. The technique is termed the “two‐valve method,” and the gun system is located in the Planetary Exploration Research Center, Chiba Institute of Technology, Japan. We detected the vaporization of halite at 31 GPa and devolatilization from gypsum at 11 GPa, suggesting that impact‐induced volatile release from dry lakebeds has periodically occurred throughout Martian history. The vaporization of halite deposits might have enhanced the production of perchlorates, which are found globally on Mars. The water loss from gypsum possibly explains the coexisting types of Ca‐sulfates found in Gale Crater.
Role of Well Operations and Multiphase Geomechanics in Controlling Fault Stability During CO2 Storage and Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Zhao Xiaoxi , Jha Birendra
Published: June 2019

CO2 injection in active oil fields is a technology proposed for industrializing carbon storage operations. However, monitoring CO2 migration, oil recovery, and mechanical deformation within caprock and on faults is a challenging problem in large‐scale storage‐enhanced oil recovery operations due to intersecting faults, multiphase flow effects, and wells with complex production‐injection schedule. We develop and demonstrate a methodology based on our coupled modeling framework to monitor the movement of CO2, hydrocarbons and water, and the associated evolution in mechanical stability of faults during CO2 storage‐enhanced oil recovery in the Farnsworth Unit oil field in Texas, United States. The methodology honors geological, geophysical, and production‐injection data acquired in the field over six decades. Differential depletion from hydraulically isolated fault compartments followed by water and CO2 injection‐induced overpressure causes volumetric contraction and expansion of the reservoir, and changes in the total and effective stresses in the overburden‐reservoir‐underburden complex. CO2 migrates upward to accumulate near top of the geologic structure, and water migrates downward to pressurize the faults. Three‐dimensional changes in the pressure and stress fields in the system lead to changes in the shear and effective normal tractions on three major faults compartmentalizing the field. Evolution in fault tractions is used to compute the evolution in the Coulomb failure function of the faults to quantify induced‐slip tendency under production and injection. We explain the spatial heterogeneity and time variability of Coulomb failure function in terms of well location heterogeneity and well rate variability.
Genomic signatures of heterokaryosis in the oomycete pathogen Bremia lactucae
Authors: Fletcher Kyle , Gil Juliana , Bertier Lien D. , Kenefick Aubrey , Wood Kelsey J. , Zhang Lin , Reyes-Chin-Wo Sebastian , Cavanaugh Keri , Tsuchida Cayla , Wong Joan , Michelmore Richard
Published: June 2019

Lettuce downy mildew caused byBremia lactucaeis the most important disease of lettuce globally. This oomycete is highly variable and rapidly overcomes resistance genes and fungicides. The use of multiple read types results in a high-quality, near-chromosome-scale, consensus assembly. Flow cytometry plus resequencing of 30 field isolates, 37 sexual offspring, and 19 asexual derivatives from single multinucleate sporangia demonstrates a high incidence of heterokaryosis inB.lactucae. Heterokaryosis has phenotypic consequences on fitness that may include an increased sporulation rate and qualitative differences in virulence. Therefore, selection should be considered as acting on a population of nuclei within coenocytic mycelia. This provides evolutionary flexibility to the pathogen enabling rapid adaptation to different repertoires of host resistance genes and other challenges. The advantages of asexual persistence of heterokaryons may have been one of the drivers of selection that resulted in the loss of uninucleate zoospores in multiple downy mildews.
Chromatin interaction maps reveal genetic regulation for quantitative traits in maize
Authors: Peng Yong , Xiong Dan , Zhao Lun , Ouyang Weizhi , Wang Shuangqi , Sun Jun , Zhang Qing , Guan Pengpeng , Xie Liang , Li Wenqiang , Li Guoliang , Yan Jianbing , Li Xingwang
Published: June 2019

Chromatin loops connect regulatory elements to their target genes. They serve as bridges between transcriptional regulation and phenotypic variation in mammals. However, spatial organization of regulatory elements and its impact on gene expression in plants remain unclear. Here, we characterize epigenetic features of active promoter proximal regions and candidate distal regulatory elements to construct high-resolution chromatin interaction maps for maize via long-read chromatin interaction analysis by paired-end tag sequencing (ChIA-PET). The maps indicate that chromatin loops are formed between regulatory elements, and that gene pairs between promoter proximal regions tend to be co-expressed. The maps also demonstrated the topological basis of quantitative trait loci which influence gene expression and phenotype. Many promoter proximal regions are involved in chromatin loops with distal regulatory elements, which regulate important agronomic traits. Collectively, these maps provide a high-resolution view of 3D maize genome architecture, and its role in gene expression and phenotypic variation.
Structural basis for the inhibition of translation through eIF2α phosphorylation
Authors: Gordiyenko Yuliya , Llácer José Luis , Ramakrishnan V.
Published: June 2019

One of the responses to stress by eukaryotic cells is the down-regulation of protein synthesis by phosphorylation of translation initiation factor eIF2. Phosphorylation results in low availability of the eIF2 ternary complex (eIF2-GTP-tRNAi) by affecting the interaction of eIF2 with its GTP-GDP exchange factor eIF2B. We have determined the cryo-EM structure of yeast eIF2B in complex with phosphorylated eIF2 at an overall resolution of 4.2 Å. Two eIF2 molecules bind opposite sides of an eIF2B hetero-decamer through eIF2α-D1, which contains the phosphorylated Ser51. eIF2α-D1 is mainly inserted between the N-terminal helix bundle domains of δ and α subunits of eIF2B. Phosphorylation of Ser51 enhances binding to eIF2B through direct interactions of phosphate groups with residues in eIF2Bα and indirectly by inducing contacts of eIF2α helix 58–63 with eIF2Bδ leading to a competition with Met-tRNAi.
Quantum non-Gaussianity and secure quantum communication
Authors: Lee Jaehak , Park Jiyong , Nha Hyunchul
Published: June 2019

No-cloning theorem, a profound fundamental principle of quantum mechanics, also provides a crucial practical basis for secure quantum communication. The security of communication can be ultimately guaranteed if the output fidelity via the communication channel is above the no-cloning bound (NCB). In quantum communications using continuous-variable (CV) systems, Gaussian states, more specifically, coherent states have been widely studied as inputs, but less is known for non-Gaussian states. We aim at exploring quantum communication covering CV states comprehensively with distinct sets of unknown states properly defined. Our main results here are (i) to establish the NCB for a broad class of quantum non-Gaussian states, including Fock states, their superpositions, and Schrodinger-cat states and (ii) to examine the relation between NCB and quantum non-Gaussianity (QNG). We find that NCB typically decreases with QNG. Remarkably, this does not mean that QNG states are less demanding for secure communication. By extending our study to mixed-state inputs, we demonstrate that QNG specifically in terms of Wigner negativity requires more resources to achieve output fidelity above NCB in CV teleportation. The more non-Gaussian, the harder to achieve secure communication, which can have crucial implications for CV quantum communications.
Multi omics analysis of fibrotic kidneys in two mouse models
Authors: Pavkovic Mira , Pantano Lorena , Gerlach Cory V. , Brutus Sergine , Boswell Sarah A. , Everley Robert A. , Shah Jagesh V. , Sui Shannan H. , Vaidya Vishal S.
Published: June 2019

Kidney fibrosis represents an urgent unmet clinical need due to the lack of effective therapies and an inadequate understanding of the molecular pathogenesis. We have generated a comprehensive and combined multi-omics dataset (proteomics, mRNA and small RNA transcriptomics) of fibrotic kidneys that is searchable through a user-friendly web application: http://hbcreports.med.harvard.edu/fmm/. Two commonly used mouse models were utilized: a reversible chemical-induced injury model (folic acid (FA) induced nephropathy) and an irreversible surgically-induced fibrosis model (unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)). mRNA and small RNA sequencing, as well as 10-plex tandem mass tag (TMT) proteomics were performed with kidney samples from different time points over the course of fibrosis development. The bioinformatics workflow used to process, technically validate, and combine the single omics data will be described. In summary, we present temporal multi-omics data from fibrotic mouse kidneys that are accessible through an interrogation tool (Mouse Kidney Fibromics browser) to provide a searchable transcriptome and proteome for kidney fibrosis researchers.
THETA system allows one-step isolation of tagged proteins through temperature-dependent protein–peptide interaction
Authors: Miura Kota , Tsuji Yusuke , Mitsui Hiromasa , Oshima Takuya , Noshi Yosei , Arisawa Yudai , Okano Keiko , Okano Toshiyuki
Published: June 2019

Tools to control protein-protein interactions by external stimuli have been extensively developed. For this purpose, thermal stimulation can be utilized in addition to light. In this study, we identify a monoclonal antibody termed C13 mAb, which shows an approximately 480-fold decrease in the affinity constant at 37 °C compared to that at 4 °C. Next, we apply this temperature-dependent protein-peptide interaction for one-step protein purifications. We term this THermal-Elution-based TAg system as the THETA system, in which gel-immobilized C13 mAb-derived single-chain variable fragment (scFv) (termed THETAL) is able to bind with proteins tagged by C13 mAb-epitope(s) (THETAS) at 4 °C and thermally release at 37–42 °C. Moreover, to reveal the temperature-dependent interaction mechanism, molecular dynamics simulations are performed along with epitope mapping experiments. Overall, the high specificity and reversibility of the temperature-dependent features of the THETA system will support a wide variety of future applications such as thermogenetics.
On the reproduction of Li3Fe2(HPO3)3Cl—a short discussion on “Li3Fe2(HPO3)3Cl: an electroactive iron phosphite as a new polyanionic cathode material for Li-ion battery”
Authors: Yu Cheng-Long , Liu Hang , Song Jie , Yang Jing , Hui Huai-Bing , Tang Hao , Wang Dao-Yi , Zhang Peng-Cheng , Zhang Xin-Meng
Published: June 2019

Li3Fe2(HPO3)3Cl is not the main phase by hydrothermal reaction at 175 °C to 205 °C.
Switchable living nickel(ii) α-diimine catalyst for ethylene polymerisation
Authors: Padilla-Vélez Omar , O’Connor Kyle S. , LaPointe Anne M. , MacMillan Samantha N. , Coates Geoffrey W.
Published: June 2019

Design and synthesis of a Ni(ii) “sandwich” α-diimine complex (1) resulted in a switchable catalyst for the living polymerisation of ethylene over a range of temperatures and pressures.
Dynamic characterization of structural relaxation in V2O5–P2O5 bulk oxide glass
Authors: Wu Shaolai , Wang Debo , Zhong Yuyong , Fang Xiaohui , Chen Yongjun , Jiang Hong , Li Changjiu , Wang Yizhen
Published: June 2019

The characteristic changes and the complete relaxation process of V2O5–P2O5 oxide glass are studied by dynamic thermal-mechanical analysis and differential scanning calorimetry.
Analytic theory of finite-size effects in supercell modeling of charged interfaces
Authors: Pan Cong , Yi Shasha , Hu Zhonghan
Published: June 2019

Complex nonlinear responses of fluids to charge walls are predicted by mean-field theory.
Designed synthesis of a proton-conductive Ho-MOF with reversible dehydration and hydration
Authors: Wang Sa-Sa , Wu Xiao-Yuan , Li Zhong , Lu Can-Zhong
Published: June 2019

An Ho-MOF with a proton conductivity of 8.2 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 343 K and 98% RH was designed and synthesized.
Electronic profiling of membrane antigen expressionviaimmunomagnetic cell manipulation
Authors: Civelekoglu Ozgun , Wang Ningquan , Boya Mert , Ozkaya-Ahmadov Tevhide , Liu Ruxiu , Sarioglu A. Fatih
Published: June 2019

A disposable magnetophoretic cytometer with a multiplexed electronic readout for quantitative membrane antigen profiling.
AMPK mediates the neurotoxicity of iron oxide nanoparticles retained in mitochondria or lysosomes
Authors: Huang Hui , Zhou Mengxue , Ruan Lifo , Wang Dongqing , Lu Huiru , Zhang Jiayu , Chen Jun , Hu Yi , Chai Zhifang
Published: June 2019

Environmental factors may play a critical role in the etiology and pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the association of PD with specific chemical species remains largely unknown. Here we prepared three kinds of iron oxide nanoparticles and examined their cytotoxicity in a cellular model of PD. We found that lysosome-targeted nanoparticles showed significant cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. Inhibition of AMPK could aggravate the neurotoxicity of lysosome-targeted nanoparticles as well as mitochondrion-targeted nanoparticles. Alteration of mitochondrial membrane potentials was found to be in agreement with the neurotoxicity of iron nanoparticles. These results suggested an important role of AMPK in regulating iron nanoparticle-associated neurotoxicity.
Layered composite based on halloysite and natural polymers: a carrier for the pH controlled release of drugs
Authors: Lisuzzo Lorenzo , Cavallaro Giuseppe , Milioto Stefana , Lazzara Giuseppe
Published: June 2019

We have prepared new biohybrid materials based on halloysite nanotubes and natural polymers (alginate and chitosan) for the controlled and sustained release of bioactive species.
Chlorine-additive-promoted incorporation of Mn2+ dopants into CsPbCl3 perovskite nanocrystals
Authors: Zhou Su , Zhu Yiwen , Zhong Jiasong , Tian Feifan , Huang Hai , Chen Jiangkun , Chen Daqin
Published: June 2019

Chlorine-promoted doping of Mn(ii) in CsPbCl3 perovskites is achieved by employing manganese acetate as a Mn(ii) precursor for the first time.
Aryne insertion into the PO bond: one-pot synthesis of quaternary phosphonium triflates
Authors: Neog Kashmiri , Dutta Dhiraj , Das Babulal , Gogoi Pranjal
Published: June 2019

A novel transition-metal free synthetic strategy for the direct synthesis of quaternary phosphonium triflates via insertion of aryne into phosphine oxide.
In situcrosslinking of nanostructured block copolymer microparticles in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: He Guping , Bennett Thomas M. , Alias Kartini , Jiang Long , Schwab Simon T. , Alauhdin Mohammad , Howdle Steven M.
Published: June 2019

Nanostructured block copolymer microparticles crosslinkedin situduring RAFT dispersion polymerisation in supercritical CO2.
Wide band gap kesterite absorbers for thin film solar cells: potential and challenges for their deployment in tandem devices
Authors: Vermang Bart , Brammertz Guy , Meuris Marc , Schnabel Thomas , Ahlswede Erik , Choubrac Leo , Harel Sylvie , Cardinaud Christophe , Arzel Ludovic , Barreau Nicolas , van Deelen Joop , Bolt Pieter-Jan , Bras Patrice , Ren Yi , Jaremalm Eric , Khelifi Samira , Yang Sheng , Lauwaert Johan , Batuk Maria , Hadermann Joke , Kozina Xeniya , Handick Evelyn , Hartmann Claudia , Gerlach Dominic , Matsuda Asahiko , Ueda Shigenori , Chikyow Toyohiro , Félix Roberto , Zhang Yufeng , Wilks Regan G. , Bär Marcus
Published: June 2019

This study describes the potential and challenges involved with the use of wide bandgap kesterite absorbers in tandem solar cells.
Rapidly responsive smart adhesive-coated micropillars utilizing catechol–boronate complexation chemistry
Authors: Narkar Ameya R. , Kendrick Chito , Bellur Kishan , Leftwich Timothy , Zhang Zhongtian , Lee Bruce P.
Published: June 2019

Mussel-inspired smart adhesives were combined with an array of micropillars to create a pH-responsive adhesive with the ability to transform rapidly between its adhesive and non-adhesive states.
Periodic buckling and grain boundary slips in a colloidal model of solid friction
Authors: Janai Erez , Butenko Alexander V. , Schofield Andrew B. , Sloutskin Eli
Published: June 2019

We study the slip-stick frictional dynamics at a scale of individual ‘atoms’, employing a two-dimensional colloidal crystal.
Band-gap engineering in AB(OxS1−x)3 perovskite oxysulfides: a route to strongly polar materials for photocatalytic water splitting
Authors: Vonrüti Nathalie , Aschauer Ulrich
Published: June 2019

DFT calculations predict BaZrxTi1−xO2S to combine ferroelectricity and small band gaps making them promising materials for photocatalytic water splitting.
A high-pressure induced stable phase of Li2MnSiO4 as an effective poly-anion cathode material from simulations
Authors: Wang Shuo , Liu Junyi , Qie Yu , Gong Sheng , Zhang Cunzhi , Sun Qiang , Jena Puru
Published: June 2019

A novel poly-anion Li2MnSiO4 material is predicted at high pressure using global crystal structure search combined with first-principles calculation, which shows great potentials as a high-performance cathode.
Thermal degradation of formamidinium based lead halide perovskites into sym-triazine and hydrogen cyanide observed by coupled thermogravimetry-mass spectrometry analysis
Authors: Juarez-Perez Emilio J. , Ono Luis K. , Qi Yabing
Published: June 2019

The thermal stability and decomposition products of formamidinium, a widely used organic cation in perovskite solar cell formulation, were investigated.
ATM rs189037 significantly increases the risk of cancer in non-smokers rather than smokers: an updated meta-analysis
Authors: He Xiaoxia , Wang Peng , Li Ying , Shen Na
Published: June 2019

Rs189037 (G>A) is an important functional variant with ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) gene, which might affect ATM’s expression involvement in several human cancers. Increasing evidence reveals that smoking-related cancers have distinct molecular characteristics from non-smoking cancers. Until now, the role of ATM rs189037 in cancer risk stratified by smoking status still remains unclear. To evaluate the association between ATM rs189037 and cancer risk based on smoking status, we performed this meta-analysis by a comprehensive literature search via databases of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and CNKI, updated till January 2019. Multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted from eligible studies if available, to assess the relationship strengths. A total of seven eligible studies were included, comprising 4294 cancer patients (smokers: 1744 [40.6%]) and 4259 controls (smokers: 1418 [33.3%]). Results indicated a significant association of ATM rs189037 with cancer risk. In non-smokers, compared with GG genotype, AA genotype increased a 1.40-fold risk of overall cancer (OR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.15–1.70, Pheterogeneity=0.433, I2 = 0.0%). Subgroup analysis in lung cancer (LC) also exhibited a significant result (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.15–1.73, Pheterogeneity=0.306, I2 = 17.0%) only in non-smokers. However, the association was not observed in smokers, no matter for overall cancer or for LC. Our findings highlight that ATM rs189037 significantly increases cancer susceptibility in non-smokers, rather than in smokers. The association is prominent in LC.
Pinning event‐triggered control for stochastic discrete‐time complex networks with time‐varying delay
Authors: Ren Guojian , Yu Yongguang , Wei Jiamin , Xu Conghui
Published: June 2019

In this study, the distributed event‐triggered control strategy is found to cope with the pinning control problem of stochastic discrete‐time complex networks with time‐varying delay. Under the devised mechanism, exponential mean‐square synchronisation can be implemented in the directed networks. By utilising the Lyapunov functional method and the stochastic analysis, several sufficient conditions are established. Moreover, the issue of average synchronisation is investigated. For the stochastic complex networks without reference state, it is demonstrated that all nodes can converge to a time‐varying weighted average exponentially by a suitable distributed event‐triggered controller. Finally, some numerical examples are presented to indicate the effectiveness of the devised control strategies.
Stabilisation of positive systems with generalised disturbances
Authors: Xu Yuhan , Qiao Jianzhong , Wang Chenliang , Guo Lei
Published: June 2019

Robustness of positive systems with respect to disturbances is a challenging issue of both theoretical and practical importance. In this study, the stabilisation control problem of positive systems with disturbances is investigated. More generalised disturbances are considered here, including positive modelled disturbances and general disturbances. A disturbance observer is designed to estimate the disturbances and a sufficient and necessary condition for stabilisation is derived. For positive disturbances, a sufficient condition with the use of the convergence law for the existence of controller is proposed, and this problem can be formulated as a linear programming problem. Furthermore, the corresponding theory is expanded to generally modelled disturbances, which enriches the theories about anti‐disturbance control of positive systems. Meanwhile, the analysis is given in detail to promote the theoretical completeness, including conservations of hypothesis and positivity constraints of disturbance estimation values. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme can guarantee the positivity of systems and improve the system performances for generalised disturbances.
Control and management of hybrid AC/DC microgrid based on Γ‐Z‐source converter
Authors: Torkaman Hossein , Afjei Ebrahim , Keyhani Ali , Poursmaeil Mobina
Published: June 2019

This article studies a hybrid AC/DC microgrid with bidirectional Γ‐Z‐source inverter as an interlinking converter (IC). The Γ‐Z‐source inverter is capable of providing high‐voltage gainand it does not have the drawbacks of the conventional inverters. In this hybrid microgrid, DC‐type energy sources and loads are connected in DC sub‐grid and AC‐type energy sources and loads are connected in AC sub‐grid to reduce the extra power conversion stages in both AC and DC sub‐grids. Therefore system volume and cost decreases and system reliability and efficiency increases. In DC sub‐grid, the advantages of multi‐port power electronic interface (MPEI) are utilised. The individual DC–DC power converter, a MPEI, is used for interconnecting DC distributed generators. Photovoltaic system and battery unit are used as DC distributed generators. The article presents the control of three operation modes including grid‐connected mode, islanded mode and islanded mode with power flow management and the IC and distributed generators. For power sharing management, droop strategy is used. The performance of the proposed IC in all three operation modes is evaluated by time domain simulations in MATLAB/Simulink.
Image smoothing via adaptive fourth‐order partial differential equation model
Authors: Wang Na , Chen Yan , Yao Linhong , Zhang Quan , Jia Lina , Gui Zhiguo
Published: June 2019

To overcome the staircase effects and simultaneously avoid edge blurring, here the authors proposed a novel algorithm of adaptive fourth‐order partial differential equation (PDE) for image smoothing. The proposed method is based on You and Kaveh (YK) model that first performs a pre‐processing using coherence‐enhancing diffusion filter before the smoothing. Then, the authors select an adaptive edge‐stopping function founded on the Tansig function to effectively remove the noise and insignificant details without destruction of important edges and textures in the image. MATLAB simulation results validate the efficiency of the proposed model quantitatively and visually, when compared with other state‐of‐the‐art methods.
Normalization of the extragalactic background light from high-energy γ-ray observations
Authors: Biasuzzi B. , Hervet O. , Williams D. A. , Biteau J.
Published: June 2019

Extragalactic background light (EBL) plays an important role in cosmology since it traces the history of galaxy formation and evolution. Such diffuse radiation from near-UV to far-infrared wavelengths can interact with γ-rays from distant sources such as active galactic nuclei (AGNs), and is responsible for the high-energy absorption observed in their spectra. However, probing the EBL from γ-ray spectra of AGNs is not trivial due to internal processes that can mimic its effect. Such processes are usually taken into account in terms of curvature of the intrinsic spectrum. Hence, an improper choice of parametrization for the latter can seriously affect EBL reconstruction. In this paper, we propose a statistical approach that avoids a priori assumptions on the intrinsic spectral curvature and that, for each source, selects the best-fit model on a solid statistical basis. By combining the Fermi-LAT observations of 490 blazars, we determine the γ-ray-inferred level of EBL for various state-of-the-art EBL models. We discuss the EBL level obtained from the spectra of both BL Lacs and flat spectrum radio quasars (FSRQ) in order to investigate the impact of internal absorption in different classes of objects. We further scrutinize constraints on the EBL evolution from γ-ray observations by reconstructing the EBL level in four redshift ranges, up to z ∼ 2.5. The approach implemented in this paper, carefully addressing the question of the modeling of the intrinsic emission at the source, can serve as a solid stepping stone for studies of hundreds of high-quality spectra acquired by next-generation γ-ray instruments.
The effects of environmental factors and fisheries management on recreational catches of perch Perca fluviatilis in the Czech Republic
Authors: Lyach Roman , Remr Jiri
Published: June 2019

The Eurasian perch Perca fluviatilis is an important fish species in both commercial and recreational fisheries. However, there is concern that perch populations in Central Europe are decreasing. This study aimed to assess the effects of environmental factors and management on recreational perch catches. Data from individual angling logbooks collected by the Czech Fishing Union on 229 fishing grounds during the period 2005–2016 were used in this study. In total, almost 60 000 perch weighing 17 500 kg were recorded. During the study period, total perch catches decreased by 60%, catch per fishing visit decreased by 70%, average body weight of caught perch increased by 18%, and percentage of fishing grounds with perch catches decreased by 13%. The results indicated that the decreasing catches were due to increasing fishing pressure. Further, fishing grounds with higher fishing visit rates had higher catches in general but lower catch per fishing visit. Larger and more productive rivers also showed higher catches. In contrast, the intensity of fish stocking did not affect catches. In conclusion, perch populations in Central Europe are likely under high fishing pressure, and the pressure is further increasing.
Albian bivalves from Madiela Formation in north Gabonese coastal basin
Authors: Musavu Moussavou Benjamin
Published: June 2019

A study of Albian bivalves from Madiela Formation in north of Gabonese coastal basin has been carried out from N’Toum quarry geological section. Four genera including six species are identified: Liopistha (Psilomya) sp. 1, ? Liopistha (Psilomya) sp. 2, Megaporomya sp., Neithea (Neithea) dutrugei (Coquand, 1862), Pleuromya sp. 1 and Pleuromya sp. 2. One morphotype is identified as Bivalvia gen. et sp. indet. The genus Megaporomya Ayoub-Hannaa et al., 2013 and all identified species, except Neithea (Neithea) dutrugei (Coquand, 1862), are found for the first time in Gabonese coastal basin. Now, a total of twelve species of bivalves have been reported from the Madiela Formation. In Gabon, the presence for the first time of genera Liopistha and Pleuromya in N’Toum quarry geological section which is assigned to the Albian permits us to expand their geographical distribution until N’Toum region, and their age range to Albian.
Methodological Guidelines for the Sustainable Development of the Bulgarian Touristic Resorts through Reducing the Harmful Impact of Transport
Authors: Velikova Elenita
Published: June 2019

The achievement of sustainable development of Bulgarian tourist resorts is questionable after the European Commission has put Bulgaria’s two-month ultimatum to prove that it can deal with the problem of dirty air. Tourism is a sector that is accused of violating sustainable development due to its many negative environmental impacts. A significant part of the harmful impact is due to the transport used to reach the desired destination and the movement itself. Sustainable development is a key objective of the EU and Bulgaria should not lag behind in terms of the essential indicators for its achievement. This publication aims to propose effective measures to reduce the harmful impact of passenger transport on the environment by establishing sustainable transport practices in touristic resorts. The environmental component of sustainable development is among its main priorities. Based on expert analysis of Bulgarian touristic resorts, our own research and experience in the studied subject will offer effective measures to increase their sustainability by reducing the harmful impact of transport on the environment.
Data Preparation for GIS based Land Suitability Modelling: A Stepped Approach
Authors: Khahro Shabir Hussain , Matori Abd Nasir , Chandio Imtiaz Ahmed , Talpur Mir Aftab Hussain
Published: June 2019

The land suitability analysis of any facility has become a complex affair. Each aspect of the landscape has inherent properties that are, to some extent, appropriate or inappropriate for planned activities. Compliance with government guidelines, installation guidelines and customer needs has made this task more complex. Land-use suitability analysis is identifying the most suitable spatial pattern for future land uses according to specific requirements, preferences, or predictors of some activity. Land-use suitability can mean different things to different experts depending on the purpose. Geographic Information System (GIS) has proven to be a key tool in addressing these land compatibility issues. GIS is a science of analysing position information that can count several numbers of these parameters at the same time, and it can be used to identify and analyse earth compatibility for all types of physical planning. A spatial aptitude model generally corresponds to the scientific question “Where is the best location for a particular facility or business? Therefore, this paper aims to provide an intensified approach to prepare datasets and layers for such land suitability problems using GIS. This paper will be valuable to land managers in land-use planning for any facility.
Form Follows Environmental Energy: Ecological Heat In Contemporary Vernacular Architecture
Authors: HE Meiting , LI Linxue
Published: June 2019

The aesthetic of architecture changes with the history, and its evolution is a dynamic, humane and regional process. The contemporary China is in the double transition periods of traditional and modern, modern and postmodern, therefore the value of architecture lost its order caused by the overlapping and conflicting of different values in different periods, either external “image” or intrinsic “meaning”, are in a state of disorder. With the advent of modernization, traditional architecture seems to be gradually forgotten and abandoned. However, many traditional villages still circulate the environmental wisdom that contemporary architects still use in their designs. Most of the traditional houses all over the world use local building material, make full use of renewable energy, using the natural energy of natural climate actively such as light, heat, wind to adapt to the climate environment, with good adaptability to the local climate, topography and, is a model of passive building technology. This article attempts from Three angles to explore, which are the diagram and theory, simulation software, and environment measurement of Chinese traditional village. Through the above research, we try to find the coupling between traditional local-style dwelling houses and modern residence in the design.
Hydraulic networks with pressure-dependent closure relations, under restrictions on the value of nodal pressures. Maxwell matrix properties and monotonicity of flow distribution problem solution
Authors: Korelstein Leonid
Published: June 2019

In the article, which continues the research of article [1], the results of previous article are generalized to “abstract” hydraulic networks. Additional existence theorems are proved for classical flow distribution problem (CFDP) for hydraulic networks with pressure-dependent closure relations, under restriction on nodal pressures. Hydraulic network Maxwell matrix properties are establish, related to monotonicity of CFDP solution.
Phenomenological study of the dynamics of pressure distribution in a gas flow in a long-distance pipeline
Authors: Sukharev Mikhail , Kochueva Olga
Published: June 2019

The paper is devoted to the modeling of unsteady gas flows in long pipelines. A widely used flow model in the form of a system of partial differential equations obtained by the methods of continuum mechanics is considered. The simplifying assumptions under which it is derived are discussed. It is stated that there is no experimental confirmation of the admissibility of these simplifications. Wave processes observed during the operation of the object are examined. The velocity of pressure waves propagation and attenuation was estimated, some physical phenomena, the causes of which are not clear from the available information, were identified. Actual observations are reconciled with the results of model calculations, some discrepancies between them are detected.