bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A nonlinear viscoelastic–viscoplastic model for adhesives
Authors: Chen Yi , Smith Lloyd V.
Published: August 2020

We consider the nonlinear viscoelastic–viscoplastic behavior of adhesives. We develop a one-dimensional nonlinear model by combining Schapery’s nonlinear single integral model and Perzyna’s viscoplastic model. The viscoplastic strain was solved iteratively using the von Mises yield criterion and nonlinear kinematic hardening. The combined viscoelastic–viscoplastic model was solved using Newton’s iteration and implemented into a finite element model. The model was calibrated using creep-recovery data from bulk adhesives and verified from the cyclic behavior of the bulk adhesives. The finite element model results agreed with experimental creep and cyclic responses, including recoverable and permanent strain after load removal. Although the contribution of the viscoplastic strain was small, both viscoplastic and viscoelastic components of strain response were required to describe the adhesive creep and cyclic response.
Carbon Nanosheets Synthesis in a Gliding Arc Reactor: On the Reaction Routes and Process Parameters
Authors: Ma Xintong , Li Sirui , Chaudhary Rohit , Hessel Volker , Gallucci Fausto
Published: August 2020

Non-thermal plasma is a promising technology for high purity nanomaterial synthesis in a fast, flexible and controllable process. Gliding arc discharge, as one of the most efficient non-thermal plasmas, has been widely used in gas treatment but rarely studied for the nanomaterial synthesis. In this study, a comparison study for carbon nanosheets synthesis including toluene dissociation and graphite exfoliation was investigated in a 2D gliding arc reactor at atmospheric pressure. The effects of gas flow rate, precursor concentration and power input on the structures of carbon nanosheets produced through the two synthesis routes were explored and compared. Amorphous carbon nanosheets were produced in both approaches with a few crystalline structures formation in the case of toluene dissociation. The thickness of carbon nanosheets synthesized from graphite exfoliation was less than 3 nm, which was thinner and more uniform than that from toluene dissociation. The flow rate of carrier gas has direct influence on the morphology of carbon nanomaterials in the case of toluene dissociation. Carbon spheres were also produced along with nanosheets when the flow rate decreased from 2 to 0.5 L/min. However, in the case of graphite exfoliation, only carbon nanosheets were observed regardless of the change in flow rate of the carrier gas. The generated chemical species and plasma gas temperatures were measured and estimated for the mechanism study, respectively.
Two-Photon Polymerisation 3D Printing of Microneedle Array Templates with Versatile Designs: Application in the Development of Polymeric Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Cordeiro Ana Sara , Tekko Ismaiel A. , Jomaa Mohamed H. , Vora Lalitkumar , McAlister Emma , Volpe-Zanutto Fabiana , Nethery Matthew , Baine Paul T. , Mitchell Neil , McNeill David W. , Donnelly Ryan F.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To apply a simple and flexible manufacturing technique, two-photon polymerisation (2PP), to the fabrication of microneedle (MN) array templates with high precision and low cost in a short time.

Methods

Seven different MN array templates were produced by 2PP 3D printing, varying needle height (900–1300 μm), shape (conical, pyramidal, cross-shaped and with pedestal), base width (300–500 μm) and interspacing (100–500 μm). Silicone MN array moulds were fabricated from these templates and used to produce dissolving and hydrogel-forming MN arrays. These polymeric MN arrays were evaluated for their insertion in skin models and their ability to deliver model drugs (cabotegravir sodium and ibuprofen sodium) to viable layers of the skin (ex vivo and in vitro) for subsequent controlled release and/or absorption.

Results

The various templates obtained with 2PP 3D printing allowed the reproducible fabrication of multiple MN array moulds. The polymeric MN arrays produced were efficiently inserted into two different skin models, with sharp conical and pyramidal needles showing the highest insertion depth values (64–90% of needle height). These results correlated generally with ex vivo and in vitro drug delivery results, where the same designs showed higher drug delivery rates after 24 h of application.

Conclusion

This work highlights the benefits of using 2PP 3D printing to prototype variable MN array designs in a simple and reproducible manner, for their application in drug delivery.
On Bundling and Entry Deterrence
Authors: Greppi Andrea , Menicucci Domenico
Published: August 2020

A multiproduct incumbent firm faces the threat of entry from another multiproduct (generalist) firm or from single-product (specialist) firms. Assuming that the incumbent offers higher quality products than its rivals, we inquire whether the possibility of bundling by the incumbent is more effective in deterring entry in one setting or the other, and explore how the quality difference affects the comparison. For instance, for relatively high-quality differences the generalist is more vulnerable to bundling than are the specialists; but bundling is a credible action for the incumbent more often against specialists than against the generalist.
Overconfidence and narcissism among the upper echelons: a systematic literature review
Authors: Brunzel Johannes
Published: August 2020

Research has been trying to analyze cognitive decision making processes of top-executive for decades. In particular, economic and organizational research on overconfidence (e.g., the notion that one is better than the average) and narcissism (e.g., exaggerated feeling of self-importance and the need for admiration) among the upper echelons has shown to influence firm strategies and firm level outcomes in similar ways. Yet these approaches appear in distinct research disciplines. Although both constructs are theoretically and empirically linked, and have shown to affect key organizational outcomes, surprisingly little clear empirical consensus exist how these constructs—individually and mutually—affect firm level outcomes. I try explain this puzzle by providing an overview of the leading approaches of executive overconfidence and executive narcissism research. To disentangle both constructs conceptionally and empirically, I review a large sample of articles that are nested in leading economic and business journals. Thus, I identify key operationalization issue and discuss how divergent literature streams in Economics and Organizational Behavior may benefit from each other. The review suggest that paying more attention—theoretically and empirically—to the interaction of overconfidence and narcissism may help to augment knowledge accumulation in the field. Furthermore, greater validation concerns of unobtrusive measures and its endogenous nature may help to rule out alternative explanations. Generally speaking, the results suggest that top-executive overconfidence and narcissism are not mere interesting psychological biases but affect firm-level outcomes in important ways.
ENaC in Salt-Sensitive Hypertension: Kidney and Beyond
Authors: Pitzer Ashley L. , Van Beusecum Justin P. , Kleyman Thomas R. , Kirabo Annet
Published: August 2020

Purpose of Review

The main goal of this article is to discuss the role of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) in extracellular fluid and blood pressure regulation.

Recent Findings

Besides its role in sodium handling in the kidney, recent studies have found that ENaC expressed in other cells including immune cells can influence blood pressure via extra-renal mechanisms. Dendritic cells (DCs) are activated and contribute to salt-sensitive hypertension in an ENaC-dependent manner. We discuss recent studies on how ENaC is regulated in both the kidney and other sites including the vascular smooth muscles, endothelial cells, and immune cells. We also discuss how this extra-renal ENaC can play a role in salt-sensitive hypertension and its promise as a novel therapeutic target.

The role of ENaC in blood pressure regulation in the kidney has been well studied. Recent human gene sequencing efforts have identified thousands of variants among the genes encoding ENaC, and research efforts to determine if these variants and their expression in extra-renal tissue play a role in hypertension will advance our understanding of the pathogenesis of ENaC-mediated cardiovascular disease and lead to novel therapeutic targets.
Age of Hypertension Onset: Overview of Research and How to Apply in Practice
Authors: Suvila Karri , Langén Ville , Cheng Susan , Niiranen Teemu J.
Published: August 2020

Purpose of Review

To review the current evidence on research related to age of hypertension onset—its definition, correlates, heritability, and association with adverse outcomes. We also propose a framework for implementing assessment of hypertension onset age into clinical practice.

Recent Findings

Prior studies have used both objective measurements and self-report to determine age of hypertension onset or early-onset hypertension. Yet, no criterion for standard definition currently exists for either. Data from epidemiological and clinical studies demonstrate that early-onset hypertension is a highly heritable trait that confers an increased risk for cardiovascular death and end-organ damage compared with late-onset hypertension.

Literature to date suggests that (parental) age of hypertension onset can be feasibly assessed for estimating (1) risk of future hypertension in non-hypertensive persons; and (2) the propensity for cardiovascular disease in individuals with established hypertension.
Perspectives on hygienic behavior in Apis mellifera and other social insects
Authors: Spivak Marla , Danka Robert G.
Published: August 2020

Hygienic behavior in honey bees, Apis mellifera, has been studied for over 80 years with the aim of understanding mechanisms of pathogen and parasite resistance and colony health. This review emphasizes the underlying behavioral mechanisms of hygienic behavior in honey bees and when known, in other social insects. We explore the relationship between honey bee hygienic behavior toward diseased brood and Varroa-parasitized brood (Varroa-sensitive hygiene, VSH); the timing of hygienic removal of diseased, Varroa-infested, and virus-infected brood relative to risk of transmission that can affect colony fitness; and the methods, utility, and odorants associated with different assays used to select colonies for resistance to diseases and Varroa. We also provide avenues for future research that would benefit honey bee health and survivorship.
Salvia ceratophylla L. from South of Jordan: new insights on chemical composition and biological activities
Authors: Abu-Darwish Mohammad Sanad , Cabral Célia , Ali Zulfigar , Wang Mei , Khan Shabana I. , Jacob Melissa R. , Jain Surendra K. , Tekwani Babu L. , Zulfiqar Fazila , Khan Ikhlas A. , Taifour Hatem , Salgueiro Lígia , Efferth Thomas
Published: August 2020

In Jordan, Salvia ceratophylla L. is traditionally used in the treatment of cancer, microbial infections, and urinary disorders. This study aimed: (1) to chemically characterize S. ceratophylla essential oil (EO) from South Jordan, by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS); and (2) to evaluate in vitro the cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, and antiprotozoal activities of the EO, it’s predominant components, and the hexane (A), ethyl acetate (B), methanol (C) and crude-methanol extracts (D). The analysis revealed that the EO has 71 compounds, with linalool (54.8%) as main constituent. Only the hexane extract (A) showed some cytotoxic activity against SK-MEL, KB, BT-549, SK-OV-3, LLC-PK1 and VERO cells lines with IC50 between 60 and > 100 µg/mL. The EO inhibited NO production (IC50 90 µg/mL) and NF-κB activity (IC50 38 µg/mL). The extracts A, B, and D inhibited NO production and NF- κB activity with IC50 between 32 and 150 µg/mL. Linalool considerably inhibited NO production (IC50 18 µg/mL). The extracts tested did not exhibit antileishmanial activity. Regarding antitrypanosomal activity, the EO exhibited significant results with IC50 2.65 µg/mL. In conclusion, Jordan S. ceratophylla EO represents a rich source of linalool and bears a promising therapeutic potential for further antitrypanosomal drug development.
Stochastic dominance relations for generalised parametric distributions obtained through composition
Authors: Lando Tommaso , Bertoli-Barsotti Lucio
Published: August 2020

Investigating stochastic dominance within flexible multi-parametric families of distributions is often complicated, owing to the high number of parameters or non-closed functional forms. To simplify the problem, we use the T–X method, making it possible to obtain generalised models through the composition of cumulative distributions and quantile functions. We derive conditions for the second-order stochastic dominance and for the increasing convex order within multi-parametric families in two steps, namely: (i) breaking them down via the T–X approach and (ii) checking dominance conditions of the (more) manageable distributions composing the model. We apply our method to some special distributions and focus on the beta-generated family, which enables the comparisons of order statistics of i.i.d. samples from (possibly) different random variables.
Discrete element modelling of railway ballast performance considering particle shape and rolling resistance
Authors: Guo Yunlong , Zhao Chunfa , Markine Valeri , Shi Can , Jing Guoqing , Zhai Wanming
Published: August 2020

To simulate ballast performance accurately and efficiently, the input in discrete element models should be carefully selected, including the contact model and applied particle shape. To study the effects of the contact model and applied particle shape on the ballast performance (shear strength and deformation), the direct shear test (DST) model and the large-scale process simulation test (LPST) model were developed on the basis of two types of contact models, namely the rolling resistance linear (RRL) model and the linear contact (LC) model. Particle shapes are differentiated by clumps. A clump is a sphere assembly for one ballast particle. The results show that compared with the typical LC model, the RRL method is more efficient and realistic to predict shear strength results of ballast assemblies in DSTs. In addition, the RRL contact model can also provide accurate vertical and lateral ballast deformation under the cyclic loading in LPSTs.
Importance of Analysis of Arrhythmia Mechanism in Predicting Outcomes in Fetal Bradycardia: A Single-Centre Retrospective Study from a Dedicated Fetal Cardiology Unit in South India
Authors: Lall Jasmine , Valsan Roshan , Paul Anu , Thomas Stephy , Sudhakar Abish , Vaidyanathan Balu
Published: August 2020

Few studies have correlated the mechanism of fetal bradycardia to pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to correlate the arrhythmia mechanism to pregnancy and early postnatal outcomes in fetal bradycardia. This was retrospective study (May 2013–November 2019). Fetuses with sustained bradycardia (heart rate ≤ 100 per minute) were included. Based on arrhythmia mechanism, patients were categorized into 4 groups:Group 1: blocked atrial ectopics, Group 2: second-degree atrioventricular block (AVB), Group 3: complete AVB and group 4: sinus bradycardia. Clinical presentation, need for transplacental therapy, pregnancy and early postnatal outcomes were analysed. A total of 36 patients were included. Mean gestational age was 26.2 ± 5.5 weeks. The most common arrhythmia mechanism was Group 3 (N = 24; 66.7%) followed by Group 2 (N = 5; 13.8%); groups 1 and 4 had 4 and 3 patients respectively. Maternal auto-antibodies were reported in 21 patients (58.3%); 19 were in Group 3. Transplacental therapy was needed in 15 (41.7%) cases; 14 were in Group 3. Live-birth was reported in 23 cases (63.9%), other outcomes included pregnancy termination (n = 7), intra-uterine death (n = 4) and lost to follow-up (n = 2). Live-births were most common in Groups 1 (100%) and 2 (80%), followed by Group 3 (54.2%). Postnatal mortality occurred in one patient (Group 2). Three patients (60%) in Group 2 had Long QT syndrome in postnatal evaluation. Eight patients (6 in group 3) needed pacemaker implantation after birth. Fetal bradycardia was associated with an overall favorable pregnancy and good early postnatal outcomes. Analysis of the arrhythmia mechanism should guide prognostication and decisions for transplacental therapy.
Variation diminishing-type properties for multivariate sampling Kantorovich operators
Authors: Angeloni Laura , Costarelli Danilo , Seracini Marco , Vinti Gianluca , Zampogni Luca
Published: August 2020

In this paper we establish a variation-diminishing type estimate for the multivariate Kantorovich sampling operators with respect to the concept of multidimensional variation introduced by Tonelli. A sharper estimate can be achieved when step functions with compact support (digital images) are considered. Several examples of kernels have been presented.
Communication in Human-Robot Interaction
Authors: Bonarini Andrea
Published: August 2020

Purpose of Review

To present the multi-faceted aspects of communication between robot and humans (HRI), putting in evidence that it is not limited to language-based interaction, but it includes all aspects that are relevant in communication among physical beings, exploiting all the available sensor channels.

Recent Findings

For specific purposes, machine learning algorithms could be exploited when data sets and appropriate algorithms are available.

Together with linguistic aspects, physical aspects play an important role in HRI and make the difference with respect to the more limited human-computer interaction (HCI). A review of the recent literature about the exploitation of different interaction channels is presented. The interpretation of signals and the production of appropriate communication actions require to consider psychological, sociological, and practical aspects, which may affect the performance. Communication is just one of the functionalities of an interactive robot and, as all the others, will need to be benchmarked to support the possibility for social robots to reach a real market.
Sweat detection theory and fluid driven methods: A review
Authors: Yu Haixia , Sun Jintao
Published: August 2020

In recent years, analyses of sweat have become more popular since it doesn’t require invasive sampling procedures. Although blood still remains the golden standards in clinical, analyses of other common body fluids, such as sweat, have become increasingly important. Because the compositions of sweat and blood are osmotically related, the content of certain metabolites in sweat can directly reflect the disease. Sweat detection can be used as an alternative to blood detection and allows continuous monitoring. Increased development of wearable sensors makes it possible for continuous sweat detection. Here, this paper gave a review about the sweat detection methods, such as fluorescence sensing, electrochemical sensing and colorimetric sensing. The advantages and disadvantages of each method and their developing trend in sweat detection were summarized. Then, for the problem of continuous sweat sampling, three methods (capillary force, hydrogel osmotic pump, evaporation-driven micropump) were introduced through different structures of microfluidic chip, and the level of sweat collection and transport achieved by related research was demonstrated. This review aims to provide guidance for future research in sweat detection and stimulate further interest in continuous monitoring of sweat using microfluidic chip.
“New Citizens” or “Community of Fate”? Early Discourses and Policies on “Flight and Expulsion” in the Two Postwar Germanys
Authors: Gengler Peter N.
Published: August 2020

The historiography of the postwar Germanys often examined the Nazi legacy and the remarkable efforts needed for economic and social recovery after 1945. In both the FRG and GDR, the consequences of the war and resulting “flight and expulsion” featured prominently in public discourse and were among the most pressing challenges in the early postwar years. Examining how the competing regimes in East and West Germany attempted to solve the humanitarian crisis caused by the forced migration of 10 to 12 million German refugees in the first years after World War II reveals that the discourses and policies started from common points of departure yet diverged into competing narratives underpinning the states’ political and social agendas. Reconstructing the evolution of how the forced migrations were discussed and leveraged in the neglected period immediately after the war opens new perspectives on how Germans shouldered the burdens of dictatorship and defeat.
Halbstarkeand Rowdys: Consumerism, Youth Rebellion, and Gender in the Postwar Cinema of the Two Germanys
Authors: Layne Priscilla
Published: August 2020

In the second half of the 1950s, American films about “delinquent youth” took West Germany by storm. Although these films were not screened in East Germany, the still open border between the FRG and GDR allowed young people in both states to see these films. Many adopted American clothing styles and music in both Germanys. Two films, the West German productionDie Halbstarken(1956) and the East German productionBerlin–Ecke Schönhauser(1957) addressed “delinquent youth” in the German context and became quite popular. The article compares the competing images of femininity in both films, which linked the problem of “delinquent youth” to consumerism, pop culture, and “weak parents,” but portrayed young women very differently. While consumerism in the West German film was in a gender-specific way linked to femininity, the East German film linked consumerism to a class society and displaced it to the West. Contemporary film reviews and press treatment of main actresses reflected these differing attitudes toward gender and consumption.
Why does God exist?
Authors: MCINTOSH C. A.
Published: August 2020

Many philosophers have appealed to the PSR in arguments for a being that existsa se, a being whose explanation is in itself. But what does it mean, exactly, for something to have its explanation ‘in itself’? Contemporary philosophers have said next to nothing about this, relying instead on phrases plucked from the accounts of various historical figures. In this article, I analyse five such accounts – those of Anselm, Aquinas, Descartes, Spinoza, and Leibniz – and argue that none are satisfactory. Should we abandon or restrict the PSR, then? I think that would be hasty, for many reasons. I therefore consider the prospects of explaining everything, including God, given the constraints of certain features of good explanations, and conclude with several observations about future approaches.
If you can do it for free, there's some way to do it for money
Authors: Brennan Jason , Jaworski Peter
Published: August 2020

Markets without Limitsdefends the claim that there are no inherent limits to markets, in the sense that if something may permissibly be given away or exchanged outside of market or for free, then there is some realistic and plausible way of structuring a market that makes it morally permissible to exchange it for money. This paper reviews the basic strategy of the book, and then responds to criticisms from Geoffrey Hodgson's recent review. Hodgson claims to have identified counterexamples to our main thesis, which we dispute.
The notion of “acts harmful to the enemy” under international humanitarian law
Authors: Kolb Robert , Nakashima Fumiko
Published: August 2020

This article provides a legal analysis of the largely uncharted notion of “acts harmful to the enemy” under international humanitarian law, which reconciles the humanitarian need to grant special protection to medical services (medical personnel, units and transports) in the interests of the wounded and sick with the military necessity to remove it when acts are committed contrary to good faith and for hostile purposes or with effects which harm the adverse party. The meaning of the notion is clarified by primarily looking into the legality of an attack against land-based medical services by the aggrieved party to the conflict as a consequence of harmful acts. It concludes with specific recommendations on how to interpret the law governing such an attack, considered prima facie lawful, on a hospital.
Effekte von mündlichen versus schriftlichen Antwortformaten bei der performanznahen Messung von Deutsch-als-Zweitsprache (DaZ)-Kompetenz – eine experimentelle Studie mit angehenden Lehrkräften
Authors: Lemmrich Svenja , Bahls Anika , Ehmke Prof. Dr. Timo
Published: August 2020

Zusammenfassung. In einer experimentellen Studie mit randomisierter Stichprobenzuweisung werden zwei Antwortformate (schriftlich versus mündlich) in einer computerbasierten Testumgebung gegeneinander getestet. Mit beiden Varianten soll performanznah die Deutsch-als-Zweitsprache (DaZ)-Kompetenz bei angehenden Lehrkräften mit Hilfe von Videovignetten erfasst werden. Die Studie untersucht, inwieweit das Antwortformat Einfluss auf die Korrektheit und die Ausführlichkeit der Antworten hat. Zudem wird geprüft, ob die Effekte auch unter Kontrolle von DaZ-Lerngelegenheiten bestehen bleiben bzw. ob sich ein Interaktionseffekt von DaZ-Lerngelegenheiten und Antwortmodus zeigt. Die Stichprobe (N = 90) wurde aus Lehrveranstaltungen des Lehramtsstudiums gewonnen (B.A./M.Ed., alle Semester). Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass der Antwortmodus keinen statistisch signifikanten Einfluss auf die Richtigkeit, jedoch auf die Ausführlichkeit der Antworten hat. Im mündlichen Antwortformat wurden statistisch bedeutsam ausführlichere Antworten gegeben. Zudem zeigt sich, dass Testpersonen, die mehr DaZ-Lerngelegenheiten hatten, die Aufgaben eher richtig lösen, unabhängig vom Antwortmodus. Interaktionseffekte zeigten sich nicht. Für die Testentwicklung kann damit die Schlussfolgerung gezogen werden, dass ein mündliches Antwortformat bei Studierenden nicht zu unfairen Testergebnissen führt, verglichen mit einem traditionellen schriftlichen Antwortformat.
Zusammenhänge zwischen einem gemeinsamen Unterricht und kognitiven und non-kognitiven Outcomes von Kindern ohne sonderpädagogischen Förderbedarf
Authors: Kuhl Poldi , Kocaj Aleksander , Stanat Petra
Published: August 2020

Zusammenfassung. Im Zuge schulischer Inklusionsbemühungen werden Kinder mit sonderpädagogischem Förderbedarf (SPF) zunehmend gemeinsam mit Kindern ohne SPF an allgemeinen Schulen unterrichtet. Während die damit verbundenen Auswirkungen auf Kinder mit SPF bereits vielfach untersucht wurden, hat die Forschung Konsequenzen des gemeinsamen Unterrichts auf Kinder ohne SPF in Deutschland bislang kaum systematisch analysiert. Sich dieser Forschungslücke annähernd, geht der vorliegende Beitrag daher der Frage nach, inwieweit sich schulische Kompetenzen (Lesen und Zuhören im Fach Deutsch, Mathematik), Merkmale der schulischen Motivation (akademisches Selbstkonzept, Lernfreude und Langeweile) und die soziale Integration von Kindern ohne SPF in Abhängigkeit davon unterscheiden, ob in ihrer Klasse auch Kinder mit SPF lernen. Zudem wurde untersucht, ob die Ergebnisse zwischen den verschiedenen Förderschwerpunkten ( Lernen, Sprache, Emotionale und soziale Entwicklung) der Kinder mit SPF variieren. Mehrebenenanalysen von Daten des am Ende der vierten Jahrgangsstufe durchgeführten IQB-Ländervergleichs 2011 weisen darauf hin, dass der gemeinsame Unterricht von Kindern mit und Kindern ohne SPF förderschwerpunktübergreifend nicht mit differenziellen Kompetenzständen und Ausprägungen motivationaler sowie sozio-emotionaler Merkmale einhergeht. Allerdings ergaben sich förderschwerpunktspezifisch Hinweise darauf, dass insbesondere der gemeinsame Unterricht mit Kindern, die einen SPF im Bereich Emotionale und soziale Entwicklung aufweisen, in ungünstiger Weise mit einigen der untersuchten Outcomes von Kindern ohne SPF zusammenhängt, wobei die Effektstärken jedoch gering waren.
Spatially Explicit Inventory of Sources of Nitrogen Inputs to the Yellow Sea, East China Sea, and South China Sea for the Period 1970–2010
Authors: Wang Junjie , Beusen Arthur H. W. , Liu Xiaochen , Van Dingenen Rita , Dentener Frank , Yao Qingzhen , Xu Bochao , Ran Xiangbin , Yu Zhigang , Bouwman Alexander F.
Published: August 2020

Symptoms of eutrophication (including biodiversity loss, harmful algal blooms, and hypoxia) are an increasing problem in Chinese seas. Nutrient enrichment is primarily caused by accelerated human activities that cause nutrient pollution of the aquatic environment. In this study, the Integrated Model to Assess the Global Environment–Global Nutrient Model (IMAGE‐GNM) was used to estimate nitrogen inputs from river discharge, submarine fresh groundwater discharge, and mariculture, and TM5‐FAst Scenario Screening Tool (TM5‐FASST) for atmospheric nitrogen deposition to the three Large Marine Ecosystems (LMEs, i.e., Yellow Sea/Bohai Sea, YS/BS; East China Sea, ECS; South China Sea, SCS) bordered by China and several other countries for the period 1970–2010. China's river nitrogen export was the largest nitrogen source in YS/BS and ECS. In SCS, however, China and other countries contributed equally and although decreasing, the proportion of natural sources remain considerable. The total nitrogen inputs to YS/BS (1.0 to 4.1 Tg year−1), ECS (1.3 to 5.5 Tg year−1), and SCS (2.1 to 5.8 Tg year−1) increased rapidly during 1970–2010. River export is dominated by agriculture; nitrogen inputs from atmospheric deposition and mariculture have been increasing rapidly in recent years. Considering only the coastal zone of the three LMEs, our results show that the total nitrogen inputs are strongly concentrated spatially in areas close to river mouths and those confined regions with mariculture production. To sustain the food production and economic growth in the coming decades, nitrogen inputs may increase further, depending on future eutrophication mitigation policies.
The Complexity of Nonlinear Flow and non‐Fickian Transport in Fractures Driven by Three‐Dimensional Recirculation Zones
Authors: Wang Lichun , Cardenas M. Bayani , Zhou Jia‐Qing , Ketcham Richard A.
Published: August 2020

Although nonlinear fracture flow and non‐Fickian transport are common in natural settings, the mechanisms driving and controlling these intertwined phenomena are seldom scrutinized together. Here we investigated the critical role of recirculation zones (RZs) in controlling both nonlinear flow and non‐Fickian transport through numerical simulation experiments within three‐dimensional real fractures. RZs were quantitatively mapped from fully resolved flow fields directly simulated across increasing Reynolds number (Re). The development and growth of RZs, which are related to aperture expansion and contraction, determine the degree of flow nonlinearity. Moreover, expanding RZs have more capacity to capture and later release solutes back to the main flow. This always results in non‐Fickian transport with bimodal and sometimes multimodal breakthrough curves (BTCs). The time interval between the BTC modes is related via a power law. The Re and RZ volume are sufficient for characterizing the bimodal BTC.
Serum- and glucocorticoid- inducible kinase 2, SGK2, is a novel autophagy regulator and modulates platinum drugs response in cancer cells
Authors: Ranzuglia Valentina , Lorenzon Ilaria , Pellarin Ilenia , Sonego Maura , Dall’Acqua Alessandra , D’Andrea Sara , Lovisa Sara , Segatto Ilenia , Coan Michela , Polesel Jerry , Serraino Diego , Sabatelli Patrizia , Spessotto Paola , Belletti Barbara , Baldassarre Gustavo , Schiappacassi Monica
Published: August 2020

For many tumor types chemotherapy still represents the therapy of choice and many standard treatments are based on the use of platinum (PT) drugs. However, de novo or acquired resistance to platinum is frequent and leads to disease progression. In Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC) patients, PT-resistant recurrences are very common and improving the response to treatment still represents an unmet clinical need. To identify new modulators of PT-sensitivity, we performed a loss-of-function screening targeting 680 genes potentially involved in the response of EOC cells to platinum. We found that SGK2 (Serum-and Glucocorticoid-inducible kinase 2) plays a key role in PT-response. We show here that EOC cells relay on the induction of autophagy to escape PT-induced death and that SGK2 inhibition increases PT sensitivity inducing a block in the autophagy cascade due to the impairment of lysosomal acidification. Mechanistically we demonstrate that SGK2 controls autophagy in a kinase-dependent manner by binding and inhibiting the V-ATPase proton pump. Accordingly, SGK2 phosphorylates the subunit V1H (ATP6V1H) of V-ATPase and silencing or chemical inhibition of SGK2, affects the normal autophagic flux and sensitizes EOC cells to platinum. Hence, we identified a new pathway that links autophagy to the survival of cancer cells under platinum treatment in which the druggable kinase SGK2 plays a central role. Our data suggest that blocking autophagy via SGK2 inhibition could represent a novel therapeutic strategy to improve patients’ response to platinum.
A structured open dataset of government interventions in response to COVID-19
Authors: Desvars-Larrive Amélie , Dervic Elma , Haug Nina , Niederkrotenthaler Thomas , Chen Jiaying , Di Natale Anna , Lasser Jana , Gliga Diana S. , Roux Alexandra , Sorger Johannes , Chakraborty Abhijit , Ten Alexandr , Dervic Alija , Pacheco Andrea , Jurczak Ania , Cserjan David , Lederhilger Diana , Bulska Dominika , Berishaj Dorontinë , Tames Erwin Flores , Álvarez Francisco S. , Takriti Huda , Korbel Jan , Reddish Jenny , Grzymała-Moszczyńska Joanna , Stangl Johannes , Hadziavdic Lamija , Stoeger Laura , Gooriah Leana , Geyrhofer Lukas , Ferreira Marcia R. , Bartoszek Marta , Vierlinger Rainer , Holder Samantha , Haberfellner Simon , Ahne Verena , Reisch Viktoria , Servedio Vito D. P. , Chen Xiao , Pocasangre-Orellana Xochilt María , Garncarek Zuzanna , Garcia David , Thurner Stefan
Published: August 2020

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, governments have implemented a wide range of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). Monitoring and documenting government strategies during the COVID-19 crisis is crucial to understand the progression of the epidemic. Following a content analysis strategy of existing public information sources, we developed a specific hierarchical coding scheme for NPIs. We generated a comprehensive structured dataset of government interventions and their respective timelines of implementation. To improve transparency and motivate collaborative validation process, information sources are shared via an open library. We also provide codes that enable users to visualise the dataset. Standardization and structure of the dataset facilitate inter-country comparison and the assessment of the impacts of different NPI categories on the epidemic parameters, population health indicators, the economy, and human rights, among others. This dataset provides an in-depth insight of the government strategies and can be a valuable tool for developing relevant preparedness plans for pandemic. We intend to further develop and update this dataset until the end of December 2020.
Chia, a large annotated corpus of clinical trial eligibility criteria
Authors: Kury Fabrício , Butler Alex , Yuan Chi , Fu Li-heng , Sun Yingcheng , Liu Hao , Sim Ida , Carini Simona , Weng Chunhua
Published: August 2020

We present Chia, a novel, large annotated corpus of patient eligibility criteria extracted from 1,000 interventional, Phase IV clinical trials registered in ClinicalTrials.gov. This dataset includes 12,409 annotated eligibility criteria, represented by 41,487 distinctive entities of 15 entity types and 25,017 relationships of 12 relationship types. Each criterion is represented as a directed acyclic graph, which can be easily transformed into Boolean logic to form a database query. Chia can serve as a shared benchmark to develop and test future machine learning, rule-based, or hybrid methods for information extraction from free-text clinical trial eligibility criteria.
Challenges for the evaluation of digital health solutions—A call for innovative evidence generation approaches
Authors: Guo Chaohui , Ashrafian Hutan , Ghafur Saira , Fontana Gianluca , Gardner Clarissa , Prime Matthew
Published: August 2020

The field of digital health, and its meaning, has evolved rapidly over the last 20 years. For this article we followed the most recent definition provided by FDA in 2020. Emerging solutions offers tremendous potential to positively transform the healthcare sector. Despite the growing number of applications, however, the evolution of methodologies to perform timely, cost-effective and robust evaluations have not kept pace. It remains an industry-wide challenge to provide credible evidence, therefore, hindering wider adoption. Conventional methodologies, such as clinical trials, have seldom been applied and more pragmatic approaches are needed. In response, several academic centers such as researchers from the Institute of Global Health Innovation at Imperial College London have initiated a digital health clinical simulation test bed to explore new approaches for evidence gathering relevant to solution type and maturity. The aim of this article is to: (1) Review current research approaches and discuss their limitations; (2) Discuss challenges faced by different stakeholders in undertaking evaluations; and (3) Call for new approaches to facilitate the safe and responsible growth of the digital health sector.
Catalytic Conversion of CO2 to Fuels and Value-added Chemicals
Authors: Álvarez A. , Laguna O. H. , Murcia-López S.
Published: August 2020

This chapter presents a general overview of the use of CO2 as a renewable raw material for obtaining valuable products and fuels within the context of the current scenario in which novel advances in technologies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions are required. Therefore, the most relevant aspects in fuel generation from CO2 hydrogenation, focusing on fuels promoted by thermal catalysis such as methanol, dimethyl ether, methane and hydrocarbons from Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, are presented. Similarly, new alternatives of generating value-added chemicals are explored, with descriptions provided of the electrochemical generation of CO, formic acid and ethylene from CO2.
The reduction performance of double bonds regulated by the competition of push–pull electron groups to realize the colorimetric and fluorescence recognition of hypochlorous acid
Authors: Shi Yan , Huo Fangjun , Zhang Yongbin , Yin Caixia
Published: August 2020

Based on its reducibility, the double bond can act as a reaction site for hypochlorous acid (HOCl), which had been demonstrated by a great deal of work.
A frog-derived bionic peptide with discriminative inhibition of tumors based on integrin αvβ3 identification
Authors: Han Zhihao , Lian Chen , Ma Yuxuan , Zhang Congying , Liu Zicun , Tu Yuanbiao , Ma Yi , Gu Yueqing
Published: August 2020

Combined with an integrin αvβ3 binding element, fusion peptides maintained the prime activity of membrane cracking, simultaneously increasing precision of cancer treatment by using computational simulation technology.
Harnessing the PD-L1 interface peptide for positron emission tomography imaging of the PD-1 immune checkpoint
Authors: Hu Kuan , Xie Lin , Hanyu Masayuki , Zhang Yiding , Li Lingyun , Ma Xiaohui , Nagatsu Kotaro , Suzuki Hisashi , Wang Weizhi , Zhang Ming-Rong
Published: August 2020

Leveraging interface peptides in PD-L1 for PET imaging of PD-1, providing a new paradigm for radiotracer development.
Complete denitrification of nitrate and nitrite to N2 gas by samarium(ii) iodide
Authors: Marks Walker R. , Baumgardner Douglas F. , Reinheimer Eric W. , Gilbertson John D.
Published: August 2020

The reduction of nitrogen oxides (NxOyn−) to dinitrogen gas in a single vessel by samarium(ii) iodide is reported.
Increasing and dispersing strain in pyrene-fused azaacenes
Authors: Mateos-Martín Javier , Carini Marco , Melle-Franco Manuel , Mateo-Alonso Aurelio
Published: August 2020

A new strategy to obtain distorted pyrene-fused azaacenes is reported.
Single-atom catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction: recent developments and future perspectives
Authors: Lee Woong Hee , Ko Young-Jin , Kim Jun-Yong , Min Byoung Koun , Hwang Yun Jeong , Oh Hyung-Suk
Published: August 2020

Issues to be improved in the future for single-atom OER catalysts and related challenges.
An organic cathode with tailored working potential for aqueous Zn-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Quan , Xu Xingyan , Yang Gang , Liu Yu , Yao Xiaxi
Published: August 2020

Up to 0.61 V increase in the working potential was achieved by modifying the anthraquinone (AQ) molecular structure with a stronger electron-withdrawing cyano group.
Modulation of the electronic band structure of silicene by polar two-dimensional substrates
Authors: Pang KaiJuan , Wei YaDong , Xu Xiaodong , Li WeiQi , Yang JianQun , Zhang GuiLing , Li XingJi , Ying Tao , Jiang YongYuan
Published: August 2020

Using the density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we find that group-III chalcogenide monolayers can serve as a suitable substrate for silicene, and the Dirac electron band properties of silicene are also fully preserved.
Determining a vibrational distribution with a broadband optical source
Authors: Courageux T. , Cournol A. , Comparat D. , Viaris de Lesegno B. , Lignier H.
Published: August 2020

This work presents an experimental protocol conceived to determine the vibrational distribution of barium monofluoride molecules seeded in a supersonic beam of argon.
Unraveling the local structure and luminescence evolution in Nd3+-doped LiYF4: a new theoretical approach
Authors: Xiao Yang , Kuang Xiaoyu , Yeung Yauyuen , Ju Meng
Published: August 2020

On the basis of our newly developed WEPMD method, we predicted some promising laser channels in the region of visible and near-infrared spectra for Nd3+-doped LiYF4 laser crystals.
Unimolecular decomposition of methyl ketene and its dimer in the gas phase: theory and experiment
Authors: Derbali Imene , Hrodmarsson Helgi Rafn , Schwell Martin , Bénilan Yves , Poisson Lionel , Hochlaf Majdi , Alikhani Mohammad Esmaïl , Guillemin Jean-Claude , Zins Emilie-Laure
Published: August 2020

We present a combined theoretical and experimental investigation on the single photoionization and dissociative ionization of gas-phase methyl ketene (MKE) and its neutral dimer (MKE2).
Preliminary evaluation of a commercially viable Co-based hybrid catalyst system in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis combined with hydroprocessing
Authors: Yakovenko Roman E. , Savost'yanov Alexander P. , Narochniy Grigoriy B. , Soromotin Vitaliy N. , Zubkov Ivan N. , Papeta Olga P. , Svetogorov Roman D. , Mitchenko Serge A.
Published: August 2020

A hybrid catalyst for one-step conversion of syngas into liquid hydrocarbons, mainly gasoline and diesel, is proposed.
Punicalagin improves hepatic lipid metabolismviamodulation of oxidative stress and mitochondrial biogenesis in hyperlipidemic mice
Authors: Cao Ke , Wang Kexin , Yang Meng , Liu Xuyun , Lv Weiqiang , Liu Jiankang
Published: August 2020

Punicalagin (PU) from pomegranate exerts beneficial effects on acute hyperlipidemia-induced hepatic abnormalitiesviaregulation of oxidative stress and mitochondrial function.
Thomson scattering versus modeling of the microwave plasma torch: a long standing discrepancy almost solved
Authors: van der Mullen Joost , Atanasova Mariana , Obrusník Adam , Zajíčková Lenka
Published: August 2020

This paper resolves a long standing discrepancy between theoretical modeling of atmospheric microwave plasma jets and their diagnostics by Thomson scattering. The discrepancy is found to be created by the filamentary behavior of the plasma.
Strategies to reduce the dynamic disorder in molecular semiconductors
Authors: Nematiaram Tahereh , Troisi Alessandro
Published: August 2020

The dynamic disorder is known to be one of the crucial parameters limiting the charge carrier transport in molecular semiconductors and a parameter that cannot be easily controlled through known design rules.
Copper-based catalysts derived from salen-type ligands: synthesis of 5-substituted-1H-tetrazoles via [3+2] cycloaddition and propargylamines via A3-coupling reactions
Authors: Singh Anshu , Maji Ankur , Mohanty Aurobinda , Ghosh Kaushik
Published: August 2020

Base-metal copper(ii) complexes derived from unsymmetrical salen-type ligands were designed and synthesized using ligands L1H to L4H. These complexes were employed as catalysts for [3+2] cycloaddition and A3-coupling reactions.
Highly efficient hydrogen evolution reaction, plasmon-enhanced by AuNP-l-TiO2NP photocatalysts
Authors: Castillo-Rodriguez Judith , Ortiz Pedro D. , Isaacs Mauricio , Martinez Natalia P. , O’Shea James N. , Hart Jack , Temperton Robert , Zarate Ximena , Contreras David , Schott Eduardo
Published: August 2020

A set of AuNPs-l-TiO2NPs nanoaggregates which showed efficient covering of the semiconductor's surface by AuNPs, as well as suitable AuNP sizes for LSPR-sensibilization were used as highly efficient photocatalysts for photoinduced HER.
A reliable alternative approach for the ultra-sensitive detection ofl-glutathione with wet chemically synthesized Co3O4-doped SnO2nanoparticles decorated on a glassy carbon electrode
Authors: Rahman Mohammed M. , Alam M. M. , Alamry K. A.
Published: August 2020

An electrochemical sensor was developed for the non-enzymatic detection ofl-glutathione based on wet-chemically prepared Co3O4-doped SnO2nanoparticles decorated on a glassy carbon electrode sensor-probe.
A Prussian blue analogue as a long-life cathode for liquid-state and solid-state sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Huang Tianbei , Du Guangyuan , Qi Yuruo , Li Jie , Zhong Wei , Yang Qiuju , Zhang Xuan , Xu Maowen
Published: August 2020

A facile wet-chemical method for synthesizing a nano-sized NiFe-PBA compound with excellent electrochemical performance.
A greatly improved procedure for the synthesis of an antibiotic-drug candidate 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol over silica sulphuric acid catalyst: multivariate optimisation and environmental assessment protocol comparison by metrics
Authors: Kusumaningsih Triana , Prasetyo Wahyu Eko , Firdaus Maulidan
Published: August 2020

A greatly improved procedure for the synthesis of antibiotic 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol has been developed via a newly advanced synthetic method.
Biophotonic sensor for the detection of creatinine concentration in blood serum based on 1D photonic crystal
Authors: Aly Arafa H. , Mohamed Doaa , A. Mohaseb Mona , El-Gawaad N. S. Abd , Trabelsi Y.
Published: August 2020

A new biophotonic sensor based on photonic crystal (PC) has been designed for the detection of creatinine concentration in blood, and is considered an important small molecule biomarker of renal dysfunction.
A novel route to a chiral building block for the preparation of cyclopentenyl carbocyclic nucleosides. Synthesis and anticancer activity of enantiomeric neplanocins A
Authors: Łukasik Beata , Mikina Maciej , Mikołajczyk Marian , Pawłowska Róża , Żurawiński Remigiusz
Published: August 2020

A novel route to both enantiomers of a cyclopentene building block was developed and applied to the synthesis of enantiomeric neplanocins A.
The role of carbon nanotubes in enhanced charge storage performance of VSe2: experimental and theoretical insight from DFT simulations
Authors: K. A. Sree Raj , Shajahan Afsal S. , Chakraborty Brahmananda , Rout Chandra Sekhar
Published: August 2020

Hybrid structure of VSe2 and multiwalled carbon nanotube for high performance supercapacitor applications.
Free-standing 3D alkalized Ti3C2Tx/Ti3C2Tx nanosheet membrane electrode for highly efficient and stable desalination in hybrid capacitive deionization
Authors: Shen Xiaojie , Hai Reti , Wang Xiaohui , Li Yuan , Wang Yayi , Yu Fei , Ma Jie
Published: August 2020

We prepared a 3D porous rumpled Alk-MXene/2D-MXene membrane electrode to improve CDI performance and obtain long-term stability.