bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cenários de Foresight Estratégico do setor de telecomunicações 5G: um espectro de oportunidades na Transformação Digital
Authors: Andrade Norberto de Almeida , Rainatto Giuliano Carlo , Santana Ricardo da Silva , Lima Fonttamara Leite , Anderson Mafalda Maria de Medeiros
Published: February 2020

Na era da Transformação Digital as tecnologias inovadoras geralmente alteram asproposições de valor estabelecidas e tornam inadequados os métodos tradicionais deplanejamento estratégico. Neste artigo, apresentamos o uso da modelagem de negóciosbaseada em cenários para explorar o setor das redes de comunicação móvel (5G) dequinta geração. Discutimos quatro cenários que foram desenvolvidos em um esforçocolaborativo entre diferentes perspectivas mercadológicas. Em seguida, descrevemos aabordagem de Foresight Estratégico que é um processo prospectivo de antecipação econstrução de cenários para orientar a ação para construir a visão estratégica do futurocom apropriação, amplitude, profundidade e utilização técnicas e métodos, rigorosos ecolaborativos. Essa abordagem complementa as técnicas tradicionais integrandomudanças multidimensionais, desde inovação tecnologia, regulação, dinamismo dacadeia de valor e evolução da proposição de valor. Conclui-se ainda que a contribuiçãoe a abordagem para a construção da visão estratégica do futuro das organizaçõestecnológicas de 5G, por meio do processo prospectivo e construção de cenários éparticularmente valiosa em ambientes caracterizados por um alto nível de incerteza ecomplexidade.
Navigating the New Silk Road: Eastern vs. Western Perspectives on Trust Development in Chinese Education
Authors: Hallam Pamela R. , Brown Samuel D. , Chan Peter , Bills Jacob B.
Published: February 2020

Sixteen principals and administrative staff at seven international schools in the area participated in semi-structured interviews, responding to 18 open-ended questions relating to their views on trust, including its development, and the five "facets of trust" proposed by
Tschannen-Moran and Hoy (2000) and its role in leadership. Findings indicated the tendency to base trust primarily on competence was more prominent among Chinese than Western participants and among males than females in this study. In contrast, the likelihood of viewing trust in terms of relationships
was greater for Western than Chinese participants and for females than males. This study also found that males and females tend to view trust development differently. Males are more inclined to describe trust development in a somewhat transactional framework, while females exhibited a more
interdependent (relational) view. Similarities to existing theory, including the five facets of trust, were also found.
Influence of Refugee Status Factors and Demographic Reporting on PISA Mathematics Scores in Germany
Authors: Hopp Sam P.E.
Published: February 2020

The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) scores are a leading international measure of achievement. This study reviews German 2015 PISA data and imputes scores on income and time in nation to provide comparisons between native, immigrant and refugee students. This quantitative
study uses cultural capital to explain the association of independent variables to PISA scores for students, revealing an unexpected negative linear relationship between those variables. The results and significance of this study may assist those involved in policy for refugee populations
and inform the strategies of test protocols and measures in a new global student paradigm.
Inductance Formula for Rectangular Planar Spiral Inductors with Rectangular Conductor Cross Section
Authors: Aebischer H. A.
Published: February 2020

In modern technology, inductors are often shaped in the form of planar spiral coils, as in radio frequency integrated circuits (RFIC’s), 13.56 MHz radio frequency identification (RFID), near field communication (NFC), telemetry, and wireless charging devices, where the coils must be designed to a specified inductance. In many cases, the direct current (DC) inductance is a good approximation. Some approximate formulae for the DC inductance of planar spiral coils with rectangular conductor cross section are known from the literature. They can simplify coil design considerably. But they are almost exclusively limited to square coils.

This paper derives a formula for rectangular planar spiral coils with an aspect ratio not exceeding a value between 2.5 and 4.0, depending on the number of turns, and having a cross-sectional aspect ratio of height to width not exceeding unity. It is valid for any dimension and inductance range.

The formula lowers the overall maximum error from hitherto 28 % down to 5.6 %. For specific application areas like RFIC’s and RFID antennas, it is possible to reduce the domain of definition, with the result that the formula lowers the maximum error from so far 18 % down to 2.6 %. This was tested systematically on close to 140000 coil designs of exactly known inductance. To reduce the number of dimensions of the parameter space, dimensionless parameters are introduced. The formula was also tested against measurements taken on 16 RFID antennas manufactured as PCB’s.

The derivation is based on the idea of treating the conductor segments of all turns as if they were parallel conductors of a single-turn coil. It allows the inductance to be calculated with the help of mean distances between two arbitrary points anywhere within the total cross section of the coil. This leads to compound mean distances that are composed of two types of elementary ones, firstly, between a single rectangle and itself, and secondly, between two displaced congruent rectangles. For these elementary mean distances, exact expressions are derived. Those for the arithmetic mean distance (AMD) and one for the arithmetic mean square distance (AMSD) seem to be new.

The paper lists the source code of a MATLAB® function to implement the formula on a computer, together with numerical examples. Further, the code for solving a coil design problem with constraints as it arises in practical engineering is presented, and an example problem is solved.
Nomograms predict survival outcome of Klatskin tumors patients
Authors: Qi Feng , Zhou Bin , Xia Jinglin
Published: February 2020

Objective

Klatskin tumors are rare, malignant tumors of the biliary system with a poor prognosis for patient survival. The current understanding of these tumors is limited to a small number of case reports or case series; therefore, we examined prognostic factors of this disease.

Methods

A population cohort study was conducted in patients selected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database with a Klatskin tumor that was histologically diagnosed between 2004 to 2014. Propensity-matching (PSM) analysis was performed to determine the overall survival (OS) among those with a Klatskin tumor (KCC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICCA), or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The nomogram was based on 317 eligible Klatskin tumor patients and its predictive accuracy and discriminatory ability were determined using the concordance index (C-index).

Results

Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients with Klatskin tumors had significantly worse overall survival rates (1-year OS = 26.2%, 2-year OS = 10.7%, 3-year OS = 3.4%) than those with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (1-year OS = 62.2%, 2-year OS = 36.4%, 3-year OS = 19.1%, p < 0.001) or hepatocellular carcinoma (1-year OS = 72.4% , 2-year OS = 48.5%, 3-year OS = 36.2%, p < 0.001). A poor prognosis was also significantly associated with older age, higher grade, SEER historic stage, and lymph node metastasis. Local destruction of the tumor (HR = 0.635, 95% CI [0.421–0.956], p = 0.03) and surgery (HR = 0.434, 95% [CI 0.328–0.574], p < 0.001) were independent protective factors. Multivariate Cox analysis showed that older age, SEER historic stage, and lymph node metastases (HR = 1.468, 95% CI [1.008–2.139], p = 0.046) were independent prognostic factors of poor survival rates in Klatskin tumor patients, while cancer-directed surgery was an independent protective factor (HR = 0.555, 95% CI [0.316–0.977], p = 0.041). The prognostic and protective factors were included in the nomogram (C-index for survival = 0.651; 95% CI [0.607–0.695]).

Conclusions

The Klatskin tumor group had poorer rates of OS and cancer-specific survival than the ICCA and HCC groups. Early detection and diagnosis were associated with a higher rate of OS in Klatskin tumor patients.
The Effects of Malaria Control Interventions on Out-patient and In-patient Malaria Cases in the Northern Region of Ghana
Authors: Dokurugu Emmanual Mohammed , Nasiru Suleman , Majeed Benson Abdul
Published: February 2020

In this study, change detection in Out-patient and In-patient malaria cases in the Northern Region of Ghana was examined using time series intervention analysis. Data on monthly Out-patient and In-patient malaria cases obtained from the Northern Regional Health Directorate were modelled using Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average with an Independent variable (SARIMAX) and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average with an Independent variable (ARIMAX) models. The results revealed that SARIMAX (1, 1, 1)(1, 1, 1)12 was the best model for predicting Out-patient malaria cases while SARIMAX (1, 1, 1)(2, 1, 1)12 emerged as the best model for predicting the In-patient cases in the region. Diagnostic checks of the two models with the Ljung-Box test and Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity Lagrange Multiplier (ARCH-LM) test revealed that both models were free from higher-order serial correlation and conditional heteroscedasticity respectively. A chi-square goodness-of-fit test also revealed that there was no significant difference between the predicted values from the models and the observed values for the year 2018. The study further revealed that the coefficients of the intervention variable for the Out-patient and In-patient cases were both negative, which suggest that the intervention policy the government of Ghana implemented brought about a decline in the number of Out-patient and In-patient cases in the region.
Second Order Slope Rotatable Designs under Tri-diagonal Correlation Structure of Errors Using a Pair of Incomplete Block Designs
Authors: Sulochana B. , Victorbabu B. Re.
Published: February 2020

Box and Hunter [1] introduced the concept of rotatability for response surface designs. The concept of slope-rotatability was introduced by Hader and Park [2] as an analogous to rotatability property, which is an important design criterion for response surface design. Slope-rotatable design is that of which the variance of partial derivative is a function of distance from the design (d). Recently, a few measures of slope-rotatability for a given response surface design was introduced. In this paper, a new method of slope rotatability for second order response surface designs under tri-diagonal correlation structure of errors using a pair of symmetrical unequal block arrangements with two unequal block sizes is studied. Further, a study on the dependence of variance function of the second order response surface at different design points for different values of tri-diagonal correlation coefficient ρ which lies between -0.9 to 0.9 and the distance from centre (d) is suggested.
Aeolian archaeology: the archaeology of sand landscapes in Scotland
Authors: Ashmore Patrick , Griffiths David , Dawson Susan , Dawson Alastair , Jordan Jason T , Parker-Pearson Mike , Mulville Jacqui , Sharples Niall , Smith Helen , Dawson Tom , Lelong Olivia , Shearer Ingrid , Berber John
Published: February 2020

Landscapes characterised by a substantial presence of aeolian (wind-blown) sand are predominantly coastal, and range from active dunefields with high and unstable relief, to smoother and more stable grassed surfaces which may be subject to some degree of agricultural use. Some are remote and inaccessible, but others exist in closer proximity to conurbations and tourist areas, and the impact of visitors is therefore comparatively great. In addition to the ever-present scouring and redistributing forces of sea and wind, other pressures on the stability of these landscapes include aggregates quarrying, development and the ubiquitous presence of wild burrowing fauna, most obviously the rabbit. Sand creates dynamic 'soft' landforms which are subject to continuing change, to the extent that photographs or maps of just 100 years ago often present very different topographies from those visible today. The encroachment of the sea and continual process of wind-induced change can transform a sand landscape almost overnight. In depositional strata, long periods of stasis may be represented by comparatively shallow soil horizons, which are frequently separated by much deeper bands of sand which may result from wind-blow episodes of far shorter timescale. Dune systems frequently occupy zones of extensive past settlement attraction with numerous environmental advantages, and therefore occur in areas of generally high archaeological potential. Yet their complexity and extreme vulnerability present us with serious problems in terms of balancing an understanding of the archaeology with conservation strategies.
MORADIA PROVISÓRIA ENTRE BOLIVIANOS EM SÃO PAULO: ambiguidade e contingência
Authors: M. Serrano Pucci Fabio , P. B. Véras Maura
Published: February 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo refletir sobre a questão da moradia entre imigrantes bolivianos em São Paulo, buscando investigar até que ponto existe uma correlação entre a “ilusão do provisório” – inerente à condição do imigrante (Sayad, 1998) – e as formas precárias de habitar na cidade. Tais formas podem ser definidas como moradias da pobreza e (ou) “nomadismo urbano” (Véras, 2003b; 2016a). A pesquisa, utilizando-se da combinação de método qualitativo, pelas entrevistas com bolivianos (nos bairros do Brás e Grajaú), e o quantitativo, por meio de levantamento dos dados de Censos Demográficos do IBGE, indica uma interdependência entre as formas precárias de habitar dos bolivianos e a ideia de provisoriedade que eles têm de sua permanência no país.

 

TEMPORARY HOUSING AMONG BOLIVIANS IN SÃO PAULO: ambiguity and contingency

This article approaches the housing conditions of Bolivian immigrants in São Paulo, inquiring to what extent there is a correlation between the “illusion of the provisional” – which is inherent to the immigrant’s condition (Sayad, 1998) – and the precarious housing solutions of these immigrants in the city, which can be defined as home of poverty and (or) “urban nomadism” (Véras, 2003b; 2016a). Both qualitative methods (mainly composed by interviews conducted with Bolivians in the districts of Brás and Grajaú) and quantitative methods (mainly composed by the study of the Demographic Census of IBGE) were used. The research findings show interdependence between the precarious housing solutions of these immigrants and the idea that they will only stay provisionally in this country.

Keywords: Immigration. Bolivians. City. Housing. Provisional.

 

LOGEMENT PROVISOIRE PARMIS LES BOLIVIENS À SÃO PAULO: ambiguité et contingence

Cet article vise à refléchir sur la question du logement parmi les immigrés boliviens à São Paulo, cherchant à déterminer dans quelle mesure il existe une corrélation entre “l’illusion du provisoire” inhérente à la condition de l’immigré (Sayad, 1998) et les formes précaires du logement dans la ville – des formes qui peuvent être définies comme des habitations de pauvreté et (ou) “ nomadisme urbain” (Véras, 2003b, 2016a). La recherche, en utilisant la combinaison de la méthode qualitative, des entretiens avec des Boliviens (dans les quartiers de Brás et Grajaú), et l’enquête quantitative des données du recensement démographique de l’IBGE, indique une interdépendance entre les formes précaires d’habiter des Boliviens et l’idée de leur présence provisoire ou temporaire dans le pays.

Mots Clés: Immigration. Boliviens. Ville. Logement. Provisoire.
ENTRE O DIÁLOGO E A RESISTÊNCIA: o movimento social de bairro no Conjunto Palmeiras, em Fortaleza (CE)
Authors: George Lopes Paulino Antonio
Published: February 2020

O artigo revisita a história dos movimentos sociais de bairros de Fortaleza (CE), tendo como referente empírico o Conjunto Palmeiras, cuja formação territorial remete aos anos 1970. A análise resulta de aproximações etnográficas que adentram no cenário da mobilização por direitos fundamentais e pela urbanização do bairro, espaço social que resguarda uma memória de lutas e conquistas, possibilitando identificar agentes envolvidos na projeção desses movimentos nas décadas de 1980 e 1990. Essa experiência de organização coletiva segue na formação de espaços de autonomia, com momentos de interlocução e resistência frente ao Estado, trazendo contribuições para o debate acerca de temas como movimentos sociais, soberania e representação popular.

 

BETWEEN DIALOGUE AND RESISTANCE: the neighborhood social movement in the Palmeiras Set, in Fortaleza (CE)

The article revisits the history of social movements in neighborhoods in Fortaleza (CE), with the empirical reference to Conjunto Palmeiras, whose territorial formation goes back to the 1970s. The analysis results from ethnographic approaches that enter the scenario of mobilization for fundamental rights and the urbanization of the neighborhood, a social space that protects a memory of struggles and conquests, making it possible to identify agents involved in the projection of these movements in the 1980s and 1990s. This experience of collective organization continues in the formation of spaces of autonomy, with moments of dialogue and resistance towards the State, bringing contributions to the debate on topics such as social movements, sovereignty and popular representation.

Keywords: Policy. Social movements. Representation. Sovereignty. City.

 

ENTRE DIALOGUE ET RÉSISTANCE: le mouvement social de voisinage dans le Palmeiras Set, à Fortaleza (CE)

L’article revisite l’histoire des mouvements sociaux de quartiers de Fortaleza (CE), ayant comme référent empirique le Conjunto Palmeiras, dont la formation territoriale se réfère aux années 1970. L’analyse résulte d’approches ethnographiques qui entrent en scène de mobilisation pour les droits fondamentaux et d’urbanisation du quartier, un espace social qui protège une mémoire des luttes et des conquêtes, permettant d’identifier les acteurs impliqués dans la projection de ces mouvements dans les années 1980 et 1990. Cette expérience d’organisation collective se poursuit dans la formation d’espaces d’autonomie, avec des moments d’interlocution et de résistance à l’égard de l’État, apportant des contributions au débat sur des thèmes tels que les mouvements sociaux, la souveraineté et la représentation populaire.

Mots-clés: Politique. Mouvements sociaux. Représentation. Souveraineté. Ville.
A Collagen Based Cryogel Bioscaffold that Generates Oxygen for Islet Transplantation
Authors: Razavi Mehdi , Primavera Rosita , Kevadiya Bhavesh D. , Wang Jing , Buchwald Peter , Thakor Avnesh S.
Published: February 2020

The aim of this article is to develop, characterize, and test a novel 3D bioscaffold matrix that can accommodate pancreatic islets and provide them with a continuous, controlled, and steady source of oxygen to prevent hypoxia‐induced damage following transplantation. Hence, a collagen‐based cryogel bioscaffold that incorporates calcium peroxide (CPO) into its matrix is made. The optimal concentration of CPO integrated into bioscaffolds is 0.25 wt% and this generates oxygen at 0.21 ± 0.02 × 10‐3 m day‐1 (day 1), 0.19 ± 0.01 × 10‐3 m day‐1 (day 6), 0.13 ± 0.03 × 10‐3 m d‐1 (day 14), and 0.14 ± 0.02 × 10‐3 m d‐1 (day 21). Accordingly, islets seeded into cryogel‐CPO bioscaffolds have a significantly higher viability and function compared to islets seeded into cryogel alone bioscaffolds; these findings are supported by data from quantitative computational modeling. When syngeneic islets are transplanted into the epididymal fat pad (EFP) of diabetic mice, the cryogel‐0.25 wt%CPO bioscaffold improves islet function with diabetic animals re‐establishing glycemic control. Mice transplanted with cryogel‐0.25 wt%CPO bioscaffolds show faster responses to intraperitoneal glucose injections and have a higher level of insulin content in their EFP compared to those transplanted with islets alone (P < 0.05). The novel oxygen‐generating bioscaffold (i.e., cryogel‐0.25 wt%CPO) therefore provides a biostable and biocompatible 3D microenvironment for islets which can facilitate islet survival and function at extra‐hepatic sites of transplantation.
Galvanically Replaced, Single‐Bodied Lithium‐Ion Battery Fabric Electrodes
Authors: Woo Sang‐Gil , Yoo Sijae , Lim Si‐Hyoun , Yu Ji‐Sang , Kim Kyungbae , Lee Jaegab , Lee Donggue , Kim Jae‐Hun , Lee Sang‐Young
Published: February 2020

Despite extensive research on flexible/wearable power sources, their structural stability and electrochemical reliability upon mechanical deformation and charge/discharge cycling have not yet been completely achieved. A new class of galvanically replaced single‐bodied lithium‐ion battery (LIB) fabric electrodes is demonstrated. As a proof of concept, metallic tin (Sn) is chosen as an electrode active material. Mechanically compliable polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) fabrics are conformally coated with thin metallic nickel (Ni) layers via electroless plating to develop flexible current collectors. Driven by the electrochemical potential difference between Ni and Sn, the thin Ni layers are galvanically replaced with Sn, resulting in the fabrication of a single‐bodied Sn@Ni fabric electrode (Sn is monolithically embedded in the Ni matrix on the PET fabric). Benefiting from the chemical/structural uniqueness and rationally designed bicontinuous ion/electron transport pathways, the single‐bodied Sn@Ni fabric electrode provides exceptional redox reaction kinetics and omnidirectional deformability (notably, origami‐folding boats), which lie far beyond those attainable with conventional LIB electrode technologies.
Using SERS Tags to Image the Three‐Dimensional Structure of Complex Cell Models
Authors: Jimenez de Aberasturi Dorleta , Henriksen‐Lacey Malou , Litti Lucio , Langer Judith , Liz‐Marzán Luis M.
Published: February 2020

Methods to image complex 3D cell cultures are limited by issues such as fluorophore photobleaching and decomposition, poor excitation light penetration, and lack of complementary techniques to verify the 3D structure. Although it remains insufficiently demonstrated, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) imaging is a promising tool for the characterization of biological complex systems. To this aim, a controllable 3D cell culture model which spans nearly 1 cm2 in surface footprint is designed. This structure is composed of fibroblasts containing SERS‐encoded nanoparticles (i.e., SERS tags), arranged in an alternating layered structure. This “sandwich” type structure allows monitoring of the SERS signals in the z‐axis and with mm dimensions in the xy‐axis. Taking advantage of correlative microscopy techniques such as electron microscopy, it is possible to corroborate nanoparticle positioning and distances in z‐depths of up to 150 µm. This study reveals a proof‐of‐concept method for detailed 3D SERS imaging of a complex, dense 3D cell culture model.
Superatomic Gallium Clusters in Dendrimers: Unique Rigidity and Reactivity Depending on their Atomicity
Authors: Kambe Tetsuya , Watanabe Aiko , Li Meijia , Tsukamoto Takamasa , Imaoka Takane , Yamamoto Kimihisa
Published: February 2020

Superatoms have been investigated due to their possible substitution for other elements. The solution‐phase synthesis of superatoms has attracted attention to realize the availability of superatoms. However, the previous approach is basically limited to the formation of a single cluster. Here, superatoms are investigated and the number of valence electrons in these superatoms is changed by designing the number of gallium atoms present. Based on the dendrimer template method, clusters consisting of 3, 12, 13, and other numbers of atoms have been synthesized. The halogen‐like superatomic nature of Ga13 is structurally and electrochemically observed as completely different to the other clusters. The gallium clusters of 13 and 3 atoms, which can fill the 2P and 1P superatomic orbitals, respectively, exhibit different reactivities. The 3‐atom gallium cluster is suggested as being reduced to Ga3H2− due to the lower shift of energy levels in the unoccupied orbitals. The results for these gallium clusters provide candidates for superatoms.
Initiating Hexagonal MoO3 for Superb‐Stable and Fast NH4+ Storage Based on Hydrogen Bond Chemistry
Authors: Liang Guojin , Wang Yanlei , Huang Zhaodong , Mo Funian , Li Xinliang , Yang Qi , Wang Donghong , Li Hongfei , Chen Shimou , Zhi Chunyi
Published: February 2020

Nonmetallic ammonium (NH4+) ions are applied as charge carriers for aqueous batteries, where hexagonal MoO3 is initially investigated as an anode candidate for NH4+ storage. From experimental and first‐principle calculated results, the battery chemistry proceeds with reversible building–breaking behaviors of hydrogen bonds between NH4+ and tunneled MoO3 electrode frameworks, where the ammoniation/deammoniation mechanism is dominated by nondiffusion‐controlled pseudocapacitive behavior. Outstanding electrochemical performance of MoO3 for NH4+ storage is delivered with 115 mAh g−1 at 1 C and can retain 32 mAh g−1 at 150 C. Furthermore, it remarkably exhibits ultralong and stable cyclic performance up to 100 000 cycle with 94% capacity retention and high power density of 4170 W kg−1 at 150 C. When coupled with CuFe prussian blue analogous (PBA) cathode, the full ammonium battery can deliver decent energy density 21.3 Wh kg−1 and the resultant flexible ammonium batteries at device level are also pioneeringly developed for potential realistic applications.
Widely Tunable Optical and Thermal Properties of Dirac Semimetal Cd3As2
Authors: Chorsi Hamid T. , Yue Shengying , Iyer Prasad P. , Goyal Manik , Schumann Timo , Stemmer Susanne , Liao Bolin , Schuller Jon A.
Published: February 2020

In this paper, a detailed analysis of the temperature‐dependent optical properties of epitaxially grown cadmium arsenide (Cd3As2), a newly discovered 3D Dirac semimetal is reported. Fermi level tuning—instigated from Pauli‐blocking in the linear Dirac cone—and varying Drude response, generate large variations in the mid‐ and far‐infrared optical properties. Thermo‐optic shifts larger than those of traditional III–V semiconductors are demonstrated. Electron scattering rate, plasma frequency edge, Fermi level shift, optical conductivity, and electron effective mass analysis of Cd3As2 thin‐films are quantified and discussed in detail. The ab initio density functional study and experimental analysis of epitaxially grown Cd3As2 promise applications for nanophotonic and nanoelectronic devices, such as reconfigurable metamaterials and metasurfaces, nanoscale thermal emitters, and on‐chip directional antennas.
Recent Advances of 2D Materials in Nonlinear Photonics and Fiber Lasers
Authors: Liu Wenjun , Liu Mengli , Liu Ximei , Wang Xiaoting , Deng Hui‐Xiong , Lei Ming , Wei Zhongming , Wei Zhiyi
Published: February 2020

The explosive success of graphene opens a new era of ultrathin 2D materials. It has been realized that the van der Waals layered materials with atomic and less atomic thickness can not only exist stably, but also exhibit unique and technically useful properties including small size effect, surface effect, macro quantum tunnel effect, and quantum effect. With the extensive research and revealing of the basic optical properties and new photophysical properties of 2D materials, a series of potential applications in optical devices have been continuously demonstrated and realized, which immediately roused an upsurge of study in the academic circle. Therefore, the application of 2D materials as broadband, efficient, convenient, and versatile saturable absorbers in ultrafast lasers is a potential and promising field. Herein, the main preparation methods of 2D materials are reviewed and technical guidelines for identifying and characterizing layered 2D materials are provided. After investigating the characteristics of 2D materials thoroughly in nonlinear optics, their performances in fiber lasers are comprehensively summarized according to the types of materials. Finally, some developmental challenges, potential prospects, and future research directions are summarized and presented for such promising materials.
Impact of cover crop on corn–soybean productivity and soil water dynamics under different seasonal rainfall patterns
Authors: Yang Wei , Feng Gary , Read John J. , Ouyang Ying , Han Jianjun , Li Pinfang
Published: February 2020

The effect of cover crop (CC) on soil water balance and agricultural production is closely related to rainfall amount and distribution in rainfed cropping systems. This study used the root zone water quality model, RZWQM2, calibrated and validated with 4‐yr field measurements to predict the effect of planting a winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) CC in a no‐till rainfed corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean (Glycine max L.) rotation on soil water balance, crop yield, and grain water‐use efficiency (WUE) in northeast Mississippi. Seasonal rainfall for 80 consecutive years (1938–2017) was classified as ‘wet,’ ‘normal,’ and ‘dry’ years using frequency analysis, and the data sets matched chronologically to wheat, corn, and soybean growth periods were used as an input parameter in RZWQM2 simulations. During autumn and spring (early October to early April), the CC reduced deep drainage by 69 (11%), 53 (15%), and 51 mm (21%) in wet, normal, and dry years, respectively. Averaged across 40 yr, the CC decreased surface evaporation by 64 (32%) and 38 mm (24%) for corn and soybean growth periods, respectively. Wheat CC also improved soil water storage in early crop growth period during April–June in any of the three rainfall patterns. Regardless of rainfall patterns, the increase in WUE can be attributed to a decrease in evapotranspiration during cash crop period without sacrificing cash crop yield in the CC system. Introducing CC into cropping systems is beneficial to reduce annual deep drainage and evaporation while maintaining higher crop yields under different rainfall patterns.
Conformal Devices for Thermal Sensing and Heating in Biomedical and Human–Machine Interaction Applications
Authors: Lau Albert Ho Yuen , Chik Gary Kwok Ki , Zhang Zhengyang , Leung Timothy Ka Wai , Chan Paddy Kwok Leung
Published: February 2020

Thermal ablation has been adopted as one of the most common cancer treatment approaches in medical surgery. By increasing the temperature (>50 °C) on the cells, the cells are destroyed because of denaturation. Herein, an ultrathin Archimedean spiral pattern heater/sensor technology is introduced which can perform ablation by attaching conformally onto the organs for precise heating and temperature sensing. In the heater mode, the heater temperature is linearly proportional to the input joule heating power up to 400 mW. In the sensor mode, the temperature of the conformal metal wire is also linearly related to the resistance by the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). The conformal heater to perform ex vivo ablation on the porcine liver is utilized. By further integrating the devices with robotic palm and perform heat‐and‐sense interactions, a human–machine interface (HMI) apparatus is demonstrated which can be potentially applied in surgical robots or other tactile stimulation systems.
Behavioral phenotype of 49,XXXXY syndrome: Presence of anxiety‐related symptoms and intact social awareness
Authors: Lasutschinkow Patricia C. , Gropman Andrea L. , Porter Grace F. , Sadeghin Teresa , Samango‐Sprouse Carole A.
Published: February 2020

49,XXXXY is a rare X and Y chromosome variation that occurs in 1:85,000 to 1:100,000 live male births and is notable for variable motor, speech, and behavioral deficits. Case studies have described boys with this disorder as shy, impulsive, and aggressive with low frustration tolerances; however, previous studies have been limited due to cohort size. This study reports on the largest cohort of boys with 49,XXXXY to date with an emphasis on the prevalence of anxiety‐related symptoms and sociability from preschool to adolescence. The Child Behavior Checklist, Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function, 2nd edition, and Social Responsiveness Scale, 2nd edition were completed by parents on a cohort of 69. The cohort demonstrated deficits in social cognition and communication beginning in preschool, however, presented with consistent social awareness and motivation for social activities not previously appreciated in this disorder. In addition, signs of anxiety presented during preschool years and increased in severity with age, particularly in internalizing problems. Boys with 49,XXXXY presented with wide behavioral variability across all ages and domains. Further research into the potential influences of culture, birth order, biological treatment, and frequency of services is needed to better define the behavioral phenotype of children with this disorder.
Conjugation of pectin biopolymer with Au‐nanoparticles as a drug delivery system: Experimental and DFT studies
Authors: Khodashenas Bahareh , Ardjmand Mehdi , Baei Mazyar Sharifzadeh , Rad Ali Shokuhi , Akbarzadeh Azim
Published: February 2020

In the present study, pectin‐coated gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were used as a candidate for curcumin drug delivery. The effect of the size of synthesized GNPs was examined, as an important factor on the yield of drug delivery. For this purpose, three different sizes of GNPs were first synthesized using a chemical method. The synthesized nanoparticles were then coated with pectin biopolymer. Finally, curcumin drug was loaded in a pectin@GNPs complex. Various methods such as UV–vis spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy were used to characterize the synthesized GNPs and pectin@GNPs. The encapsulation efficiency and the release percentage of the drug were calculated for two different pH values. Further, an antibacterial study was conducted. The results revealed that 100 nm GNPs had the highest encapsulation efficiency. An investigation of the release rate of curcumin drug at 37°C for 48 h indicated that the amount of drug released was higher in acidic pH than at pH 7.4 with a slow release rate. The electronic structure and the adsorption properties of pectin–GNPs complex were examined using the density functional theory method.
An observer‐based exponential synchronization scheme for chaotic systems: Using advanced encryption standard as auxiliary
Authors: Hsiao Feng‐Hsiag
Published: February 2020

In this work, we present a methodology of systematic design of an improved genetic algorithm (IGA)‐based secure communication in multiple time‐delay chaotic (MTDC) systems with advanced encryption standard (AES) and optimal H∞ performance. To hide the message contents via chaotic signals, various approaches have been developed. Nevertheless, the attacks proposed in many studies have demonstrated that most of these approaches are not secure or have a low security. Therefore, in order to enhance the overall security, this work endeavors to combine chaotic synchronization with AES algorithm. The encryption method not only increases the strength of the communications system, but effectively protects the encrypted message as well. Finally, a numerical example is provided to show the achievements of this study.
Validation of a de‐immunization strategy for monoclonal antibodies using cynomolgus macaque as a surrogate for human
Authors: Kovalova Natalia , Boyles Jeffrey , Wen Yi , Witcher Derrick R. , Brown‐Augsburger Patricia L. , Wroblewski Victor J. , Chlewicki Lukasz K.
Published: February 2020

The immunogenicity of biotherapeutics presents a major challenge during the clinical development of new protein drugs including monoclonal antibodies. To address this, multiple humanization and de‐immunization techniques that employ in silico algorithms and in vitro test systems have been proposed and implemented. However, the success of these approaches has been variable and to date, the ability of these techniques to predict immunogenicity has not been systematically tested in humans or other primates. This study tested whether antibody humanization and de‐immunization strategies reduce the risk of anti‐drug antibody (ADA) development using cynomolgus macaque as a surrogate for human. First human–cyno chimeric antibodies were constructed by grafting the variable domains of the adalimumab and golimumab monoclonal antibodies onto cynomolgus macaque IgG1 and Igκ constant domains followed by framework germlining to cyno to reduce the xenogenic content. Next, B and T cell epitopes and aggregation‐prone regions were identified using common in silico methods to select domains with an ADA risk for additional modification. The resultant engineered antibodies had a comparable affinity for TNFα, demonstrated similar biophysical properties, and exhibited significantly reduced ADA levels in cynomolgus macaque compared with the parental antibodies, with a corresponding improvement in the pharmacokinetic profile. Notably, plasma concentrations of the engineered antibodies were quantifiable through 504 hours (chimeric) and 840 hours (germlined/de‐immunized), compared with only 336 hours (adalimumab) or 336–672 hours (golimumab). The results point to the significant value in the investment in these engineering strategies as an important guide for monoclonal antibody optimization that can contribute to improved clinical outcomes.
Quality transitivity of Danhong Huayu Koufuye: A study on chemical profiles of medicinal herbs, compound preparation and dosed rat plasma using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Hongbing , Wu Xin , Liu Xinyi , Xu Jun , Gong Suxiao , Han Yanqi , Zhang Tiejun , Liu Changxiao
Published: February 2020

Danhong Huayu Koufuye (DHK), an effective Chinese medicine preparation, is mainly used for the treatment of blurred vision and sudden blindness caused by qi stagnation and blood stasis, as well as the absorption period of central retinal vein occlusion. However, the current quality standard is relatively low, only stipulating the content of protocatechualdehyde. Chemical transitivity is the basis for discovering quality markers and is used in quality process control of Chinese medicines. Herein, the chemical profiles of seven medicinal herbs, DHK and dosed rat plasma were comprehensively analyzed using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. As a result, 134 chemical constituents were identified in seven medicinal herbs, including salvianolic acids, diterpene quinones, phenolic acids, phthalides, cyanogenic glycosides, flavonoids and triterpenoid saponins. Among them, 55 chemical constituents were transferred to DHK along with extraction and preparation, and 26 were further absorbed into blood and metabolized to produce 11 metabolites after oral administration. The transitivity of DHK from medicinal herbs to compound preparation and into blood was analyzed for the first time. This article will be valuable to ascertain the quality markers for quality process control and further pharmacokinetic studies.
Microsurgical reconstruction of congenital upper extremity deformities of malformations
Authors: Takamoto Koji , Tsai Tsu‐Min
Published: February 2020

We present two rare microsurgical reconstructions. A case with phocomelia was treated with lengthening of soft tissues following vascularized fibula grafting with epiphysis, and a case with cleft hand was reconstructed with spare‐part toe transfer.
Ag Electrodeposited on Cu Open‐Cell Foams for the Selective Electroreduction of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Sanghez de Luna Giancosimo , Ho Phuoc Hoang , Lolli Alice , Ospitali Francesca , Albonetti Stefania , Fornasari Giuseppe , Benito Patricia
Published: February 2020

The electrocatalytic conversion of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), a biomass platform molecule, to 2,5‐bis(hydroxymethyl)furan (BHMF), a polymer precursor, is a fully sustainable route that operates at room temperature and pressure, using water as source of hydrogen, and avoids high H2 pressures. In this work, we investigate the use of 3D electrocatalysts, made by Ag0 electrodeposited on Cu open‐cell foams (Ag/Cu), to improve the efficiency in the electrochemical conversion of HMF to BHMF in basic media at different HMF concentrations. For comparison purposes, Ag and Cu bulk foams as well as Ag, Cu and Ag/Cu foil counterparts are investigated. For diluted 0.02 M HMF solutions, BHMF is selectively produced at high HMF conversion and FE over Ag/Cu foams. The large surface area of 3D Ag/Cu foams, compared to their 2D counterparts, does not affect selectivity, but increases the rate of conversion and in turn the productivity. However, it would appear that the increase in the surface area is not enough to increase the efficiency in the conversion of more concentrated HMF electrolytes (0.05–0.50 M). The productivity of Ag/Cu is modified with electrocatalytic cycles.
Selektive Partikelklassierung in ultraschallangeregten Aerosolen
Authors: Sandmann Krischan , Fritsching Udo
Published: February 2020

In diesem Beitrag wird ein Ansatz zur Trennung und Klassierung feinster Partikeln in einer Gasphase beschrieben. Herkömmliche Trennverfahren stoßen für kleinste Partikeln (< 10 µm) an ihre Grenzen, da ihr Trennmechanismus oftmals aus der Dominanz der Volumenkräfte hervorgeht. Ein Ansatz, der die Klassierung feinster Partikeln in einem Aerosol erlaubt, wird vorgestellt und mittels analytischer Modellierung verifiziert. Dieses alternative Trennverfahren liefert eine sehr gute Trennschärfe und bietet die Aussicht, in Partikelgrößenbereichen, in denen bisher nur analytische Labormethoden zur Verfügung stehen, technisch relevante Durchsätze zu verarbeiten.
Ein Krebs macht blau
Authors: Tetsch Larissa
Published: February 2020

Ruderfußkrebse sind ein wichtiger Bestandteil der marinen Nahrungskette. Sie ernähren sich von Algen, die sie vor allem in der Grenzschicht zwischen Wasser und Luft finden. Ihr blauer Farbstoff schützt sie vor der dort herrschenden starken UV‐Strahlung und macht sie für Fressfeinde fast unsichtbar.
Discovery of a Class of Potent and Selective Non‐competitive Sentrin‐Specific Protease 1 Inhibitors
Authors: Lindenmann Urs , Brand Michael , Gall Flavio , Frasson David , Hunziker Lukas , Kroslakova Ivana , Sievers Martin , Riedl Rainer
Published: February 2020

Sentrin‐specific proteases (SENPs) are responsible for the maturation of small ubiquitin‐like modifiers (SUMOs) and the deconjugation of SUMOs from their substrate proteins. Studies on prostate cancer revealed an overexpression of SENP1, which promotes prostate cancer progression as well as metastasis. Therefore, SENP1 has been identified as a novel drug target against prostate cancer. Herein, we report the discovery and biological evaluation of potent and selective SENP1 inhibitors. A structure‐activity relationship (SAR) of the newly identified pyridone scaffold revealed allosteric inhibitors with very attractive in vitro ADMET properties regarding plasma binding and plasma stability for this challenging target. This study also emphasizes the importance of biochemical mode of inhibition studies for de novo designed inhibitors.
Neural coding of action in three dimensions: Task‐ and time‐invariant reference frames for visuospatial and motor‐related activity in parietal area V6A
Authors: Hadjidimitrakis Kostas , Ghodrati Masoud , Breveglieri Rossella , Rosa Marcello G. P. , Fattori Patrizia
Published: February 2020

Goal‐directed movements involve a series of neural computations that compare the sensory representations of goal location and effector position, and transform these into motor commands. Neurons in posterior parietal cortex (PPC) control several effectors (e.g., eye, hand, foot) and encode goal location in a variety of spatial coordinate systems, including those anchored to gaze direction, and to the positions of the head, shoulder, or hand. However, there is little evidence on whether reference frames depend also on the effector and/or type of motor response. We addressed this issue in macaque PPC area V6A, where previous reports using a fixate‐to‐reach in depth task, from different starting arm positions, indicated that most units use mixed body/hand‐centered coordinates. Here, we applied singular value decomposition and gradient analyses to characterize the reference frames in V6A while the animals, instead of arm reaching, performed a nonspatial motor response (hand lift). We found that most neurons used mixed body/hand coordinates, instead of “pure” body‐, or hand‐centered coordinates. During the task progress the effect of hand position on activity became stronger compared to target location. Activity consistent with body‐centered coding was present only in a subset of neurons active early in the task. Applying the same analyses to a population of V6A neurons recorded during the fixate‐to‐reach task yielded similar results. These findings suggest that V6A neurons use consistent reference frames between spatial and nonspatial motor responses, a functional property that may allow the integration of spatial awareness and movement control.
Absolute Bioavailability of Vemurafenib in Patients With BRAFV600 Mutation–Positive Malignancies
Authors: Zhang Weijiang , Colburn Dawn , Simmons Brian , Papai Zsuzsanna , Bertran Enric , Schadt Simone , Husser Christophe , Forbes Harper , Roethlisberger Dieter , Hartung Thomas
Published: February 2020

Vemurafenib is a BRAF kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of patients with BRAFV600 mutation–positive unresectable or metastatic melanoma and Erdheim‐Chester disease. This phase 1, open‐label, single‐arm study was designed to estimate absolute bioavailability of oral vemurafenib at steady state and to characterize the pharmacokinetics of a single intravenous microdose of 14C‐labeled vemurafenib in patients with BRAFV600 mutation–positive malignancies. Patients received oral vemurafenib 960 mg twice daily on days 1 through 28, with a single intravenous infusion of 14C‐labeled vemurafenib solution (3 mL, corresponding to a radioactive dose of 18.5 kBq and a vemurafenib dose of 20 µg) given on the morning of day 21, immediately following the morning dose of oral vemurafenib. A total of 6 patients were enrolled. Four patients who received 14C‐labeled vemurafenib infusion were included in the pharmacokinetic and bioavailability analyses. Geometric mean absolute bioavailability of oral vemurafenib at steady state, calculated as the ratio of dose‐normalized area under the curve during the dosing interval (AUCτ) following oral vemurafenib dose to dose‐normalized AUC from time 0 extrapolated to infinity (AUC0‐inf) following vemurafenib intravenous dose, was 57.8%. The majority of radioactivity (geometric mean 41%) was recovered in feces, and a small proportion (geometric mean 1.4%) was recovered in urine. Treatment‐emergent adverse events occurred in 5 of 6 (83%) patients and were all grade 1/2 in severity, except for 1 grade‐4 anaphylactic reaction occurring during infusion of 14C‐labeled vemurafenib, which was thought to be related to the excipient polysorbate 80 in the intravenous formulation.