bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of nutrient enrichment and invasive mollusks on freshwater environments
Authors: Schuler Matthew S. , Hintz William D. , Jones Devin K. , Mattes Brian M. , Stoler Aaron B. , Relyea Rick A.
Published: October 2020

The effects of an invasive species on the environment can be altered by anthropogenic activities such as nutrient pollution or the presence of additional invasive species with similar or unique traits. Using experimental mesocosms, we tested the separate and combined effects of three invasive mollusks (zebra mussels, Asian clams, and banded mystery snails) on freshwater environments in nutrient‐poor and nutrient‐enriched conditions. We predicted that in nutrient‐poor conditions, single mollusk species would reduce the abundance of algae and zooplankton, but nutrient enrichment would mitigate these effects. Regardless of nutrient additions, paired bivalve species would reduce phytoplankton and zooplankton abundance, increasing periphyton biomass. Bivalves and snails paired together would reduce periphyton, phytoplankton, and zooplankton compared to communities with paired bivalve species. Finally, nutrient enrichment would increase the survival or biomass of paired bivalves and snails. Single, paired, and three co‐occurring invasive mollusks did not affect algae or zooplankton abundance. Banded mystery snails reduced nutrient concentrations in high‐nutrient conditions more than other invasive species, but the reduced nutrients did not affect algal abundance. Paired invasive species did not affect the survival or biomass of other invasive species. Nutrient enrichment increased the biomass of zebra mussels and mystery snails, but not Asian clams. Additionally, zebra mussel reproduction increased in the high‐nutrient treatment when banded mystery snails were present, but not when all three species were together. We conclude that human‐induced trophic states might determine the effects that single and multiple invasive species have in freshwater environments.
The dynamics and stoichiometry of dissolved organic carbon release by kelp
Authors: Weigel Brooke L. , Pfister Catherine A.
Published: October 2020

Canopy‐forming kelps are foundational species in coastal ecosystems, fixing tremendous amounts of carbon, yet we know little about the ecological and physiological determinants of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) release by kelps. We examined DOC release by the bull kelp, Nereocystis luetkeana, in relation to carbon fixation, nutrient uptake, tissue nitrogen content, and light availability. DOC release was approximately 3.5 times greater during the day than at night. During the day, N. luetkeana blades released an average of 16.2% of fixed carbon as DOC. Carbon fixation increased with light availability but DOC release did not, leading to a lower proportion of fixed carbon released as DOC at high light levels. We found no relationship between carbon fixation and DOC release rates measured concurrently. Rather, DOC release by N. luetkeana blades declined with marginal significance as blade tissue nitrogen content increased and with experimental nitrate addition, supporting the role of stoichiometric relationships in DOC release. Using a stable isotope (13C) tracer method, we demonstrated that inorganic carbon is rapidly fixed and released by N. luetkeana blades as 13DOC, within hours. However, recently fixed carbon (13DOC) comprised less than 20% of the total DOC released, indicating that isotope studies that rely on tracer production alone may underestimate total DOC release, as it is decoupled from recent kelp productivity. Comparing carbon and nitrogen assimilation dynamics of the annual kelp N. luetkeana with the perennial kelp Macrocystis pyrifera revealed that N. luetkeana had significantly higher carbon fixation, DOC production and nitrogen uptake rates per unit dry mass. Both kelp species were able to perform light‐independent carbon fixation at night. Carbon fixation by the annual kelp N. luetkeana is as high as 2.35 kg C·m−2·yr−1, but an average of 16% of this carbon (376 g C·m−2·yr−1) is released as DOC. As kelp forests are increasingly viewed as vehicles for carbon sequestration, it is important to consider the fate of this substantial quantity of DOC released by canopy‐forming kelps.
Ultrahigh throughput beehive‐like device for blood plasma separation
Authors: Jiang Fengtao , Xiang Nan , Ni Zhonghua
Published: October 2020

We report here a low‐cost, rapid‐prototyping, and beehive‐like multilayer polymer microfluidic device for ultrahigh‐throughput blood plasma separation. To understand the device physics and optimize the device structure, the effect of cross‐sectional dimension and operational parameter on particle focusing behavior was explored using a single spiral microchannel device. Then, the blood plasma separation performance of the determined channel structure was validated using the blood samples with different hematocrits (HCTs). It was found that a high separation efficiency of 99% could be achieved using the blood sample with an HCT of 0.5% at a high throughput of 1 mL/min. Finally, a multilayer microfluidic device with a novel beehive‐like multiplexing channel arrangement was developed for ultrahigh‐throughput blood plasma separation. The prototype device could be fabricated within ∼1 hour utilizing the laser cutting and thermal lamination methods. The total processing throughput could reach up to 72 mL/min for 0.5% HCT sample with a plasma separation ratio close to 90%. Our device may hold potentials for the ultrahigh‐throughput separation of blood plasma from large volume blood samples for downstream disease diagnosis.
Early red nucleus atrophy in relapse‐onset multiple sclerosis
Authors: Margoni Monica , Poggiali Davide , Zywicki Sofia , Rubin Martina , Lazzarotto Andrea , Franciotta Silvia , Anglani Maria Giulia , Causin Francesco , Rinaldi Francesca , Perini Paola , Filippi Massimo , Gallo Paolo
Published: October 2020

No study has investigated red nucleus (RN) atrophy in multiple sclerosis (MS) despite cerebellum and its connections are elective sites of MS‐related pathology. In this study, we explore RN atrophy in early MS phases and its association with cerebellar damage (focal lesions and atrophy) and physical disability. Thirty‐seven relapse‐onset MS (RMS) patients having mean age of 35.6 ± 8.5 (18–56) years and mean disease duration of 1.1 ± 1.5 (0–5) years, and 36 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (HC) were studied. Cerebellar and RN lesions and volumes were analyzed on 3 T‐MRI images. RMS did not differ from HC in cerebellar lobe volumes but significantly differed in both right (107.84 ± 13.95 mm3 vs. 99.37 ± 11.53 mm3, p = .019) and left (109.71 ± 14.94 mm3 vs. 100.47 ± 15.78 mm3, p = .020) RN volumes. Cerebellar white matter lesion volume (WMLV) inversely correlated with both right and left RN volumes (r = −.333, p = .004 and r = −.298, p = .010, respectively), while no correlation was detected between RN volumes and mean cortical thickness, cerebellar gray matter lesion volume, and supratentorial WMLV (right RN: r = −.147, p = .216; left RN: r = −.153, p = .196). Right, but not left, RN volume inversely correlated with midbrain WMLV (r = −.310, p = .008), while no correlation was observed between whole brainstem WMLV and either RN volumes (right RN: r = −.164, p = .164; left RN: r = −.64, p = .588). Finally, left RN volume correlated with vermis VIIb (r = .297, p = .011) and right interposed nucleus (r = .249, p = .034) volumes. We observed RN atrophy in early RMS, likely resulting from anterograde axonal degeneration starting in cerebellar and midbrain WML. RN atrophy seems a promising marker of neurodegeneration and/or cerebellar damage in RMS.
Integrated metastate functional connectivity networks predict change in symptom severity in clinical high risk for psychosis
Authors: Gifford George , Crossley Nicolas , Morgan Sarah , Kempton Matthew J , Dazzan Paola , Modinos Gemma , Azis Matilda , Samson Carly , Bonoldi Ilaria , Quinn Beverly , Smart Sophie E , Antoniades Mathilde , Bossong Matthijs G , Broome Matthew R , Perez Jesus , Howes Oliver D , Stone James M , Allen Paul , Grace Anthony A , McGuire Philip
Published: October 2020

The ability to identify biomarkers of psychosis risk is essential in defining effective preventive measures to potentially circumvent the transition to psychosis. Using samples of people at clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR) and Healthy controls (HC) who were administered a task fMRI paradigm, we used a framework for labelling time windows of fMRI scans as ‘integrated’ FC networks to provide a granular representation of functional connectivity (FC). Periods of integration were defined using the ‘cartographic profile’ of time windows and k‐means clustering, and sub‐network discovery was carried out using Network Based Statistics (NBS). There were no network differences between CHR and HC groups. Within the CHR group, using integrated FC networks, we identified a sub‐network negatively associated with longitudinal changes in the severity of psychotic symptoms. This sub‐network comprised brain areas implicated in bottom‐up sensory processing and in integration with motor control, suggesting it may be related to the demands of the fMRI task. These data suggest that extracting integrated FC networks may be useful in the investigation of biomarkers of psychosis risk.
How does regulation affect the organizational form of foreign banks' presence in developing versus developed countries?
Authors: Pamen Nyola Annick , Sauviat Alain , Tarazi Amine
Published: October 2020

Using a unique hand‐collected dataset of 1,251 European Union banks and 20,850 foreign affiliates hosted in 154 countries, this paper investigates how both host country and home country regulations affect the decision on where and how to go abroad in developing countries as opposed to developed countries. We find that banks prefer high‐income countries with numerous activity restrictions and weaker supervision but less developed countries with less restrictions and stronger supervision. In all cases, they avoid locations with stronger capital regulation than at home. Regarding the choice of foreign organizational form (branches versus subsidiaries), banks rather operate subsidiaries in both high and middle‐income countries with stringent entry requirements but prefer branches in developing countries with stringent capital requirements and greater supervisory power. Our findings contribute to the literature examining bank internationalization and have several policy implications for regulatory reforms in developing and developed countries.
Effect of a labor triage checklist and ultrasound on obstetric referral at three primary health centers in Eastern Uganda
Authors: Santos Nicole , Mulowooza Jude , Isabirye Nathan , Inhensiko Innocent , Sloan Nancy L. , Shah Sachita , Butrick Elizabeth , Waiswa Peter , Walker Dilys
Published: October 2020

Objective

To test whether introduction of a midwife‐performed triage checklist and focused ultrasound improves diagnosis and referral for obstetric conditions, including multiple gestation, placenta previa, oligohydramnios, preterm birth, malpresentation, and abnormal fetal heart rate.

Methods

We implemented an intake log (Phase 1), a checklist (Phase 2), and a checklist plus ultrasound scan (Phase 3) at three primary health centers in Eastern Uganda for women presenting in labor. Intake diagnoses, referral status, and delivery outcomes were assessed, as well as sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV).

Results

Between February 2018 and July 2019, 1155, 961, and 603 women were enrolled across the three phases (n=2719); 2339 had outcome data. Incidence of any outcome‐confirmed condition was 8.8%, 7.9%, and 7.1% (P=0.526) for each phase, respectively. The proportion of referred women with a condition did not change between Phases 1 and 2 (7.8% versus 8.6%, P=0.855), but increased in Phase 3 (48.4%, P<0.001). Sensitivity improved with each intervention; PPV decreased with ultrasound.

Conclusion

Use of ultrasound plus checklist increased referrals and sensitivity for high‐risk conditions, with decreased PPV. The checklist alone improved correct diagnosis, but not referral. Further evaluation of these triage interventions to maximize diagnostic accuracy, referral decisions, and outcomes are warranted.
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens application to prevent biofilms in reclaimed water microirrigation systems*
Authors: Wen Jiaxin , Xiao Yang , Song Peng , Sun Bo , Muhammad Tahir , Ma Lianghe , Aosiman An Waier , Li Yunkai
Published: October 2020

Reclaimed water (RW) applied in drip irrigation systems could be a solution to cope with the challenges of limited freshwater resources. Biofilm growth in irrigation systems is an unavoidable issue when using RW. To date, strong chemical bactericides mostly dominate the commercial market in controlling biofilms. However, recently scientists have been concerned about their real efficacy and environmental risks. This study assesses a low‐concentration microbial antagonist (i.e., Bacillus amyloliquefaciens inoculums, BAI) intermittently injected into the systems to mitigate biofilm formation in three types of drip emitters using two kinds of treated RW. The results indicated that the application of BAI significantly (p < .05) mitigated the microbial biomass within biofilms when compared with the control groups (no‐BAI). In addition, BAI reduced the contents of extracellular polysaccharides and proteins of biofilms, which decreased the total biomass in BAI treatments by 44.9%–73.8%. Consequently, BAI effectively improved the emitter performances and increased the discharge variation rate by 31.9%–44.3%. These findings might provide a new perspective to control biofouling when applying RW in irrigation systems, with potential implications for sustainable water management in agricultural production.
Nucleic acid biohybrid nanocarriers with high‐therapeutic payload and controllable extended release of daunomycin for cancer therapy
Authors: Whitener Ricky , Mosley Robert J. , Wower Jacek , Byrne Mark Edward
Published: October 2020

We have developed a novel, nanosized drug carrier with high‐therapeutic payload, controllable release, and the potential for active tumor targeting. It consists of a 15 nm gold nanoparticle with dense surface loading of DNA duplexes. We utilize the natural intercalating behavior of daunomycin to load the drug between DNA base pairs. We obtained a high‐therapeutic payload of >1,000 drug molecules per gold nanoparticle (AuNP), one of the highest loadings reported in literature to date. We have engineered unique DNA sequences to control release of daunomycin for over 48 hr and show higher cell death compared to equivalent concentrations of free daunomycin. We have also explored cell internalization mechanisms to identify the pathways by which our gold nanoparticles enter the cell. This nanocarrier is in the ideal size range of 16–100 nm in diameter to utilize the enhanced permeability and retention effect for passive targeting to tumors. Our AuNP platform is effective as a therapeutic drug delivery device and can easily incorporate any aptamer of choice through complementary base pairing. Our work has produced an innovative nanoscale drug‐delivery platform potentially leading to personalized cancer therapies through careful selection of aptamers and an adjustable drug release profile.
Is THP‐1 viability affected by the crystallinity of nanostructured carbonated hydroxyapatites?
Authors: Lira Renata Moraes , Sartoretto Suelen Cristina , da Silva Gouveia Pedrosa Carolina , Calasans‐Maia Mônica Diuana , Leite Paulo Emílio , Granjeiro José Mauro
Published: October 2020

In daily clinical practice, there is a notable variety of synthetic bone substitute, with various resorption rates, different chemical and structural characteristics that influence on bone regeneration and are not suitable for every clinical use. New biomaterials based on nanotechnology have been developed to be bioabsorbable as new bone is formed. This study intends to evaluate THP‐1 cell viability when exposed to extracts of unsintered nanostructured carbonated hydroxyapatite (cHA) microspheres processed at 5 and 37°C compared to sintered hydroxyapatite processed at 90°C. cHA shows, in previous studies, biocompatibility, and better bioabsorption rates, consequently, improve the deposition of new bone and tissue repair. The results demonstrated that the tested biomaterials did not activate inflammatory role through THP‐1 cells and did not affect activated macrophages independently of their crystallinities, suggesting their safety and biocompatibility. These results are of fundamental importance for the advancement of research on smart materials, especially in what controls the effect of nanostructured cHA microspheres in the biological environment, seems to be a promising biomaterial in clinical application on regenerative medicine.
CRISPR/Cas9 mediated GFP‐human dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) promoter knock‐in at the ROSA26 locus in mesenchymal stem cell for monitoring osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Shahabipour Fahimeh , Oskuee Reza Kazemi , Shokrgozar Mohammad Ali , Naderi‐Meshkin Hojjat , Goshayeshi Lena , Bonakdar Shahin
Published: October 2020

Background

Dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) is highly expressed in mineralized tooth and bone, playing a critical role in mineralization and phosphate metabolism. One important role for the expression of DMP1 in the nucleus of preosteoblasts is the up‐regulation of osteoblast‐specific genes such as osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase1. The present study aimed to investigate the potential application of human DMP1 promoter as an indicator marker of osteoblastic differentiation.

Methods

In the present study, we developed DMP1 promoter‐DsRed‐GFP knock‐in mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs) via the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated protein 9 (Cas9) system that enabled automatic detection of osteoblast differentiation. With the application of a homology‐directed knock‐in strategy, a 2‐kb fragment of DMP1 promoter, which was inserted upstream of the GFP and DsRed reporter cassette, was integrated into the human ROSA locus to generate double fluorescent cells. We further differentiated MSCs under osteogenic media to monitor the fate of MSCs. First, cells were transfected using CRISPR/Cas9 plasmids, which culminated in MSCs with a green fluorescence intensity, then GFP‐positive cells were selected using puromycin. Second, the GFP‐positive MSCs were differentiated toward osteoblasts, which demonstrated an increased red fluorescence intensity. The osteoblast differentiation of MSCs was also verified by performing alkaline phosphatase and Alizarin Red assays.

Results

We have exploited the DMP1 promoter as a predictive marker of MSC differentiation toward osteoblasts. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology, we have identified a distinctive change in the fluorescence intensities of GFP knock‐in (green) and osteoblast differentiated MSCs 2.

Conclusions

The data show that DMP1‐DsRed‐GFP knock‐in MSCs through CRISPR/Cas9 technology provide a valuable indicator for osteoblast differentiation. Moreover, The DMP1 promoter might be used as a predictive marker of MSCs differentiated toward osteoblasts.
Mannan activates tissue native and IgE-sensitized mast cells to proinflammatory response and chemotaxis in TLR4-dependent manner
Authors: Żelechowska Paulina , Brzezińska-Błaszczyk Ewa , Różalska Sylwia , Agier Justyna , Kozłowska Elżbieta
Published: October 2020

Mast cells take part in host defense against microorganisms as they are numerous at the portal of infection, exert several essential mechanisms of pathogen destruction, and they express pattern recognition receptors. Accumulating evidence indicates that these cells are involved in the control and clearance of bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, but much less is known about their contribution in defense against fungi. The study was aimed to establish whether mannan, which comprises an outermost layer and major structural constituent of the fungal cell wall, may directly stimulate tissue mast cells to the antifungal response. Our findings indicate that mannan activates mast cells isolated from the rat peritoneal cavity to initiate the proinflammatory response. We found that mannan stimulates mast cells to release histamine and to generate cysteinyl leukotrienes, cytokines (IFN-γ, GM-CSF, TNF), and chemokines (CCL2, CCL3). It also increased the mRNA expression of various cytokines/chemokines. We also documented that mannan strongly activates mast cells to generate reactive oxygen species and serves as a potent chemoattractant for these cells. Furthermore, we established that mannan-induced activity of mast cells is mediated via TLR4 with the involvement of the spleen tyrosine kinase molecule. Taking together, our results clearly support the idea that mast cells act as sentinel cells and crucially determine the course of the immune response during fungal infection. Additionally, presented data on IgE-coated mast cells suggest that exposure to fungal mannan could influence the severity of IgE-dependent diseases, including allergic ones.
Decreasing wheat yield stability on the North China Plain: Relative contributions from climate change in mean and variability
Authors: Liu Weihang , Ye Tao , Shi Peijun
Published: October 2020

There has been increasing interest in understanding climate change impacts on crop yield stability, including interannual yield variability and lower yield extremes, in addition to mean yield. In this study, we evaluated these impacts on wheat yield and investigated the contribution of changes in climate mean and variability, and their interaction, on the North China Plain (NCP). Wheat yield simulation experiments with control groups were conducted using the Crop Environment Resource Synthesis (CERES) model, with multiple general circulation model ensembles under two representative concentration pathways (RCPs), namely 4.5 and 8.5. Climate change was projected to reduce mean yield by 15 and 17%, increase yield interannual variability by 5 and 11%, and reduce 10‐year return period lower yield extremes by 31 and 34% under RCPs 4.5 and 8.5, respectively. When analysed, changes in climate mean proved the main cause for changes in mean yield (62–71%), followed by the interactive changes in climate mean and variability (26–33%). As for the impact on yield variability, the interaction of the changes in climate mean and variability proved the main cause (48–54%), followed by changes in climate mean (33–41%). Surprisingly, climate change in variability contributed the least in both cases. Our results pertaining to the decrease in both availability and stability of wheat yield on the NCP presents a greater challenge for building a resilient food system for local areas than before. They also highlighted the importance of separating the impacts of changes in climate mean and variability on crop yield stability in a holistic framework, with particular attention paid to the tangible and interactive effects.
Systemic osteoprotegerin does not improve peri‐implant bone volume or osseointegration in rabbits
Authors: Choi Joseph H. , Wang Zhiwei , Ross Frederick P. , van der Meulen Marjolein C. H. , Bostrom Mathias P. G.
Published: October 2020

Anti‐RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand) agents function by blocking the differentiation of osteoclasts, thereby proving useful in the clinical management of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The effects of such agents on osseointegration is less well understood. The purpose of the current study was to investigate whether osteoprotegerin (OPG), an osteoclast inhibitor, enhances the known anabolic effects of mechanical loading (VEH) and intermittent PTH (iPTH) using a well‐established rabbit model of osseointegration. In the first set of experiments, OPG was administered either alone or combined with iPTH to study its effects on measured bone mass. The second set of experiments was conducted using a higher dosage of OPG (10 mg/kg) to explore its early impact at the cellular and molecular levels. All subjects had mechanical load applied to the implant on one extremity, and no load applied on the contralateral side. In the first set of experiments, OPG alone decreased peri‐implant bone mass compared to the mechanical loading group, whereas OPG + iPTH increased peri‐implant bone mass compared to the OPG group. In the second set of experiments, high‐dose OPG significantly decreased osteoclast number (−74.3%) at 1 week. However, this effect was not sustained as osteoclast number returned to baseline by 2 weeks. These results suggest that systemic administration of OPG does not enhance osseointegration, but rather has a detrimental effect.
Assessment of the impact of pharmacy learners on admission medication reconciliation in Toronto, Canada
Authors: Chow Matthew , Lui Philip , Cameron Karen , Romanko Anatoliy , Hamandi Bassem , Gorman Sean , Harrison Jennifer , Murphy Laura , Cameron Andrea , Toombs Kent , Meade Andrea , Wong Gary , Dara Celina , Woods Amita , Lutfy Francesca , Raman‐Wilms Lalitha , Slavik Richard , Spina Sean , Rubin Bonita , Fernandes Olavo
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Currently there is a lack of published data examining the clinical impact of pharmacy learners on patient care outcomes in acute care. A collaborative of hospital pharmacists in Canada established consensus on eight clinical pharmacy key performance indicators (cpKPIs) representing essential patient processes of care. Of the eight cpKPIs, admission medication reconciliation has been established as a cornerstone patient care process. The implementation of cpKPI measurement creates an opportunity to quantify pharmacy learner contribution to patient care.

Aim

To determine if the presence of pharmacy learners partnering with pharmacists is associated with an increased number of patients receiving admission medication reconciliation (AMR).

Methods

In this prospective observational study, pharmacists and learners (on 5‐week rotations) tracked patients receiving AMR in the electronic health record from 25 January to 17 July 2016. The number of patients receiving AMR were compared during timeframes when a learner was present (intervention) to when a learner was not present (control).

Results

In the main analysis of 30 learner‐pharmacist pairs with 4684 patients, 1136 patients received AMR in the intervention group versus 887 patients in the control group (adjusted for 5 weeks). The number of patients receiving AMR in the presence of a pharmacy learner partnered with a pharmacist (median = 43, IQR = 23–59) was significantly increased compared to the presence of a pharmacist alone (median = 36, IQR = 17–53, p < 0.001). Learners partnered with pharmacists to perform AMR for 41% of the patients.

Conclusion

Overall, pharmacy learners partnering with pharmacists increased the number of patients receiving AMR.
Water‐Borne Isocyanate‐Free Polyurethane Hydrogels with Adaptable Functionality and Behavior
Authors: Bourguignon Maxime , Thomassin Jean‐Michel , Grignard Bruno , Vertruyen Bénédicte , Detrembleur Christophe
Published: October 2020

Polyurethane hydrogels are attractive materials finding multiple applications in various sectors of prime importance; however, they are still prepared by the toxic isocyanate chemistry. Herein the facile and direct preparation in water at room temperature of a large palette of anionic, cationic, or neutral polyurethane hydrogels by a non‐isocyanate route from readily available diamines and new hydrosoluble polymers bearing cyclic carbonates is reported. The latter are synthesized by free radical polymerization of glycerin carbonated methacrylate with water‐soluble comonomers. The hydrogel formation is studied at different pH and its influence on the gel time and storage modulus is investigated. Reinforced hydrogels are also constructed by adding CaCl2 to the formulation that in‐situ generates CaCO3 particles. Thermoresponsive hydrogels are also prepared from new thermoresponsive cyclic carbonate bearing polymers. This work demonstrates that a multitude of non‐isocyanate polyurethane hydrogels are easily accessible under mild conditions without any catalyst, opening new perspectives in the field.
Temperature Variation Enables the Design of Biobased Block Copolymers via One‐Step Anionic Copolymerization
Authors: Bareuther Jennifer , Plank Martina , Kuttich Björn , Kraus Tobias , Frey Holger , Gallei Markus
Published: October 2020

A one‐pot approach for the preparation of diblock copolymers consisting of polystyrene and polymyrcene blocks is described via a temperature‐induced block copolymer (BCP) formation strategy. A monomer mixture of styrene and myrcene is employed. The unreactive nature of myrcene in a polar solvent (tetrahydrofuran) at −78 °C enables the sole formation of active polystyrene macroinitiators, while an increase of the temperature (−38 °C to room temperature) leads to poly(styrene‐block‐myrcene) formation due to polymerization of myrcene. Well‐defined BCPs featuring molar masses in the range of 44–117.2 kg mol−1 with dispersities, Ð, of 1.09–1.21, and polymyrcene volume fractions of 30–64% are accessible. Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization‐time of flight mass spectrometry measurements reveal the temperature‐controlled polymyrcene block formation, while both transmission electron microscopy and small‐angle X‐ray scattering measurements prove the presence of clearly microphase‐separated, long range‐ordered domains in the block copolymers. The temperature‐controlled one‐pot anionic block copolymerization approach may be general for other terpene‐diene monomers.
Visual Ozone Sensor: Structural Color Change of Pendant Selenium‐Containing Maleimide Polymers via Oxidation
Authors: Li Qilong , Liu Shaoxiang , Li Jiajia , Pan Xiangqiang , Zhu Jian , Zhu Xiulin
Published: October 2020

Pendant selenium‐containing maleimide polymers with different selenium contents are synthesized via a radical copolymerization of styrene and N‐butylmaleimide phenyl selenide. The polymer structures are characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance, gel permeation chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with an energy‐dispersive spectrometer, which results in the desired structures and selenium contents. The refractive indices of the polymers, which change as a function of different contents of selenium and oxidative stimuli by H2O2 or O3, are investigated. Finally, a photonic crystal (PC) is prepared based on the selenium‐containing polymer. The visible color changes of the PC are investigated as a function of different concentrations and contact times of O3.
Photoelectrochemical (PEC) Investigation of Ga‐Doped MoBi2Se5 Thin Films Deposited by Arrested Precipitation Technique
Authors: Patil Satishkumar V. , Ghanwat Vishvanath B. , Pawar Neeta B. , Bhosale Popatrao N.
Published: October 2020

Nanocrystalline Ga‐doped molybdenum bismuth selenide thin films have been deposited onto amorphous and fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) coated glass substrate using arrested precipitation technique (APT), which is based on self‐organized growth process. Deposited thin films of MoBi(2‐x)GaxSe5 are characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). XRD analysis shows mixed phase type crystal structure of MoBi(2‐x)GaxSe5 thin films. SEM analysis shows that closely packed grains provide a pinhole‐free morphology. The average surface roughness of as deposited MoBi(2‐x)GaxSe5 (x = 0.0, 0.04, and 0.10) thin films obtained from AFM images is 5.04 nm μm‐2. In TEM analysis, lattice plane (015), (103), and (103) are observed in SAED pattern, which confirms mixed phase type crystal structure of MoBi(2‐x)GaxSe5 thin films. The binding energy, elemental composition, and surface nature of MoBi(2‐x)GaxSe5 thin film is confirmed by using XPS. The photoelectrochemical (PEC) investigations are carried out using cell configuration p‐MoBi(2‐x)GaxSe5(FTO)/0.5M (Na2Sx‐ NaOH‐S)/counter electrode. After Ga doping, MoBi2Se5 thin film electrodes exhibit photoactivity in sulphide/polysulphide electrolyte toward positive polarity (p‐type behavior). On the addition of gallium, power conversion efficiency of MoxBi(2‐x)GaxSe5 thin films decreases from 0.456 to 0.171%.
Superhydrophobic PU Sponge Modified by Hydrophobic Silica NPs—Polystyrene Nanocomposite for Oil–Water Separation
Authors: Sutar Rajaram S. , Salunkhe Revati C. , Latthe Sanjay S. , Kodag Vishnu S. , Shewale Poonam M. , Shinde Shital R. , Sajjan M. B. , Karennavar M. H. , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar , Mohite Santosh V. , Liu Shanhu , Xing Ruimin
Published: October 2020

In this study, the hydrophobic silica nanoparticles (NPs) are synthesized by simple sol–gel processing of polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS). The nanocomposite solution is prepared by adding hydrophobic silica NPs in polystyrene solution and applied on the skeleton of polyurethane sponge by simple immersion‐drying process. The as‐prepared sponges exhibited superhydrophobic property with water contact angle 161° and oil contact angle nearly 0° and can separate oil from oil–water and oil–muddy water mixture. The superhydrophobic sponge has sustainable anti‐wetting property under cross sectional cutting, pressing and twisting, and different pH environment. Such superhydrophobic sponge is suitable for practical application on a large scale.
Oil–Water Separation by ZnO‐Based Superhydrophobic PU Sponges
Authors: Sutar Rajaram S. , Mane Manisha S. , Latthe Sanjay S. , Pawar P. G. , Kumbhar Sarita S. , Nerle Uma V. , Mote U. E. , Bhosale J. L. , Kokare B. N. , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar , Liu Shanhu , Xing Ruimin
Published: October 2020

Continuous oil–water separation is not only an important topic for scientific research but also for practical applications to clean oil from industrial oily wastewater and oil‐spill pollution. In this work, polyurethane sponges are coated by ZnO using dip coating technique. ZnO‐coated sponges are modified by stearic acid to achieve superhydrophobicity. The ZnO‐coated sponges exhibit water contact angle ≈165° and oil contact angle ≈0°. The prepared superhydrophobic sponge is sustained in oil–water separation and in separation of oil–hot water mixture. Also the wetting properties of the sponge are stable in mechanical test like cutting and twisting. Stearic acid modified ZnO‐coated sponge holds good promise for oil‐spill cleanup as well as oil/water separation from harsh environments.
Facile Synthesis and Characterization of CdO‐ZnO Nanocomposite for Gas Sensor
Authors: Pakhare Keshav S. , Sargar Balasaheb M. , Mane Raghunath K. , Wategaonkar Sandeep B.
Published: October 2020

The pure CdO, pure ZnO, and CdO‐ZnO composite films are successfully prepared by simple chemical bath deposition (CBD) method. XRD reveals a polycrystalline nature of CdO‐ZnO nanocomposite. The SEM micrograph depicts porous web network like morphology of CdO‐ZnO nanocomposite and EDX shows good agreement of elements. CdO‐ZnO nanocomposite shows maximum response of 29.11% under optimum operating temperature of 275˚C at 24 ppm ethanol gas concentration.
Superhydrophobic Nanocomposite Coatings of Hydrophobic Silica NPs and Poly(methyl methacrylate) with Notable Self‐Cleaning Ability
Authors: Sutar Rajaram S. , Gaikwad Sima S. , Latthe Sanjay S. , Kodag Vishnu S. , Deshmukh S. B. , Saptal L. P. , Kulal S. R. , Bhosale Appasaheb K.
Published: October 2020

The present paper describes a facile and inexpensive dip coating method for preparation of hierarchical superhydrophobic nanocomposite coating. The hydrophobic silica nanoparticles (NPs) are synthesized via sol–gel technique. The superhydrophobicity of the coating is controlled by adjusting the concentration of silica NPs in poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). After optimization, the coating exhibited water contact angle of 165° and sliding angle of 4°. The surface morphology of the superhydrophobic coatings revealed hierarchical rough structure formed on the glass substrate, which enable air trapping. The prepared superhydrophobic coating showed wetting stability under water jet impact with notable self‐cleaning performance. The mechanical stability of the superhydrophobic coating is studied using sandpaper abrasion and adhesive tape peeling test. Such highly non‐wettable and self‐cleaning coatings have potential in various practical applications.
Effect of Sintering Temperature on Structural and Morphological Properties of Mn‐Substituted Lithium Ferrite
Authors: Patil Rajendra P. , Nikam Prashant N. , Patil Sarjerao B. , Dhokale Ramdas K. , Sawant Vijay S. , Shelke Satish B.
Published: October 2020

Manganese‐substituted lithium ferrite is synthesized by sol–gel method. The sample is sintered at different temperatures in air. Their structural and morphological properties are studied by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and FT‐IR techniques. The X‐ray diffraction patterns reveal that all the samples consist of nanocrystalline single cubic phase structure. The morphological studies of synthesized nanocrystalline samples are obtained from the scanning electron microscopy technique. It can be seen that, the average grain size is increased significantly with increasing the sintering temperature. FT‐IR studies indicate that the spinel phase formation takes place at higher sintering temperature.
FT‐IR Spectra Analysis of PbxSr1‐x(NO3)2 Mixed Crystals for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Prathap Koyada , Rao E. Venkateshwar , Kumar P. M. , Hussain K. A.
Published: October 2020

Pb(NO3)2 and Sr(NO3)2 belong to a family of isomorphous alkaline earth nitrates with cubic structure. In view of ever growing applications of these nitrate crystals in stimulated Raman scattering laser shifters, optical filters and birefringence, numerous investigations are carried out on their various physical properties. Sr(NO3)2 crystal is a promising crystal for coupled intra‐cavity Raman laser. From Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy Raman spectra of these crystals in the near IR region 400–4000 cm−1 at room temperature, are investigated. The results indicate that lead shifts the Raman dominating peaks to the lower frequency and broaden the full width at half maximum. Furthermore, lead is anticipated to improve the properties of Sr(NO3)2.
Size and Shape Characteristics of Polystyrene and Poly(ethylene oxide) Star Polymer Melts Studied By Atomistic Simulations
Authors: Gkolfi Eirini , Bačová Petra , Harmandaris Vagelis
Published: October 2020

Here, atomistic molecular dynamics simulations are used to address the effect of different chemistry on the morphology, size, and shape characteristics of star polymers. The role of chemical details and features such as packing or flexibility on the structural properties of star‐like polymer melts is probed. Two types of symmetric unentangled homopolymer stars, the first consisting of atactic polystyrene (PS) and the second one of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) are studied. The star functionality f (i.e., the number of arms) is varied from f = 1 (linear chains) up to f = 32 and the shape and size characteristics are reported as a function of this main variable. The results from the monodisperse star‐like polymers are confronted with the theoretical predictions and with previously published simulations studies employing generic bead‐spring coarse‐grained models, with the aim to fill the gap between the systems studied experimentally and computationally.
Competitors matter: How competitors' actions moderate the influence of firm profitability on the prioritization between growth and efficiency increase
Authors: Hutzschenreuter Thomas , Borchers S. Alexander , Harhoff Philippa‐Luisa
Published: October 2020

Firms have been shown to prioritize between growth and efficiency increase sequentially depending on their level of profitability. Adding arguments from the attention‐based view to this discussion, we hypothesize that actions of competitors in the marketplace could moderate this relationship. Using data from business simulations, we specifically test whether the influence of firm profitability on the prioritization decision varies with changes in competitor products' pricing, promotion, and quality. Our analysis reveals that product promotion intensifications of competitors strengthen the positive relationship between firm profitability and the prioritization of growth relative to efficiency increase, whereas product price reductions weaken this relationship.
Analysis of the influences of ICTs on enterprise innovation performance in China
Authors: Wang Zhixin , Qi Zhenyu
Published: October 2020

This paper uses the World Bank survey database of Chinese enterprises to investigate the impact of information and communication technologies (ICTs) on Chinese enterprises' innovation performance and the internal mechanism at the micro‐level. The results show that ICTs have significantly improved the innovation performance of Chinese enterprises. This conclusion does not change with the addition of other control variables and dummy variables, showing strong robustness. This study also finds that the impact of ICTs on enterprise innovation performance shows obvious heterogeneity across different industries and regions. We should enhance the transmission effect of ICTs on enterprise innovation performance.
How to balance online healthcare platforms and offline systems? A supply chain management perspective
Authors: Yang Donghui , Wang Yan , Mei Shue
Published: October 2020

Given the sweeping changes to healthcare, the issues of how to properly price both online consultations and drugs and how to tune patient volumes between online and offline platforms remain to be resolved. In this paper, with considering patient options, we have examined three relevant scenarios through game theory analyses. The optimal profits of medical supply chain players and prices of consultation and drugs are deduced from equilibrium results. With an extensive study on the relations between drug prices and patient volumes, whether and how to use pricing strategies to avoid patient congestion are discussed in three scenarios.
Existence of global weak solutions for the high frequency and small displacement oscillation fluid–structure interaction systems
Authors: Shen Lin , Wang Shu , Feng Yuehong
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this paper is to study the fluid–structure interaction (FSI) problem which is a simplified model to describe high frequency and small displacement oscillation of elastic structure in fluids. The elastic structure displacement is modeled by a fourth‐order nonlinear hyperbolic square equations, the motion of fluid is modeled by the time‐dependent incompressible Navier–Stokes equations. We prove the existence of at least one weak solution (global in time) to this problem by compactness method. The result both holds for two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional cases.
Reproducing kernel Hilbert space method for the numerical solutions of fractional cancer tumor models
Authors: Attia Nourhane , Akgül Ali , Seba Djamila , Nour Abdelkader
Published: October 2020

This research work is concerned with the new numerical solutions of some essential fractional cancer tumor models, which are investigated by using reproducing kernel Hilbert space method (RKHSM). The most valuable advantage of the RKHSM is its ease of use and its quick calculation to obtain the numerical solutions of the considered problem. We make use of the Caputo fractional derivative. Our main tools are reproducing kernel theory, some important Hilbert spaces, and a normal basis. We illustrate the high competency and capacity of the suggested approach through the convergence analysis. The computational results clearly show the superior performance of the RKHSM.
An inverse optimal approach to design of feedback control: Exploring analytical solutions for the Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equation
Authors: Komaee Arash
Published: October 2020

Design of feedback control by an optimal control approach relies on the solutions of the Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman (HJB) equation, while this equation rarely admits analytical solutions for arbitrary choices of the performance measure. An inverse optimal feedback design approach is proposed here in which analytical solutions are explored for the HJB equation that optimize some meaningful, but not necessarily ideal, performance measure. Such performance measure is exclusively selected from a family of cost functionals with an intended structural constraint which inherently yields analytical solutions to the HJB equation. This family includes a set of free parameters which are exploited to construct cost functionals adequately representing the design requirements. The structural constraint imposed on this cost functional family indeed narrows down the scope of the proposed method; yet, it is shown by several examples that this method can successfully address certain classes of feedback design problems.
House of representative members role in aspiration absorption to facilitate democratic establishment to absorb people aspiration in Malang Constituency
Authors: Prabowo Edhy , Hidayat Dadang Rahmat , Sugiana Dadang , Aly Bachtiar
Published: October 2020

The aim of this research study is to understand the effect of House of Representative members' role on democratic establishment while acknowledging the effect of aspiration absorption on the democratic establishment in constituent behavior during political socialization and to recognizing the effect of the members' role and aspiration absorption on the democratic establishment in Indonesia. We utilized a quantitative explanatory research method, wherein a survey was conducted to collect primary data. We found that House of Representative roles has an obvious, significant, and direct effect on the democratic establishment. The research also discusses significant practical and theoretical implications. Limitations of the study and future research directions have also been mentioned.
Pan‐lanthanides method for plastic doping, application in photophysics, and scintillation with proof of photoelectric event occurrences
Authors: Bertrand Guillaume H. V. , Hamel Matthieu , Dumazert Jonathan , Coulon Romain , Frangville Camille
Published: October 2020

Taking advantage of lanthanide chemistry and coordination dynamics, a method was elaborated to embed high amounts of organometallic complexes inside a polymeric matrix. The use of a carbonylated cross‐linker allows more than a 10‐fold increase of the solubility in monomeric solution, which can afford samples reaching up to 1 wt% incorporation of lanthanides atoms. Derivatives of these samples were used as plastic scintillators to observe total gamma‐ray absorption (Photoelectric [PE] effect) of a 241Am source. The analysis was conducted on the PE occurrence rate, which showed a discontinuity along the lanthanide row, confirming that the observed signal is indeed due to PE events. These methods also provide mechanically durable samples with stable photophysical properties comparable to a solution study of lanthanides complexes.