bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crisis Management and Communication Strategies: RUSAL’s Case
Authors: Rozanov Alexander , Ivanchenko Maria , Baranova Alexandra , Smirnov Mikhail , Belyaeva Olga , Barannikov Alexander , Ilichev Mikhail , Ilicheva Ludmila , Tambiev Biyaslan , Krotovskaya Maria , Chilingaryan Vladimir , Grabovich Tatiana , Dulatkyzy Zaru , Nikolaeva Alla , Ivanova Svetlana , Boateng Kwame , Masolletti Mattia , Danilina Marina , Medvedev Dmitry , Ogneva Natalya
Published: May 2020

No company is immune to crisis situations, an affirmation which, despite its triviality, is undeniably true. However, from the early 2014, such statement may have become even more true to Russian corporations, as the annexation of the Crimean Peninsula gave start to rounds of economic sanctions that are still perpetrated today. Such measures, which were initiated in response to the Kremlin’s political maneuvers, have hit a number of Russian companies, and increased the degree of uncertainty in which they have to operate, as they see economic restriction’s impact not only on the business activity tangible factors—i.e., economic rewards, service, and performance—but also on intangible factors—i.e., image and reputation—as well. Crises are integral parts of all world systems, unfortunately. While they are a theoretically well-understood issue, in practice, crises are perceived as a very painful phenomenon. A crisis can be compared to riding a roller coaster. First, as we gain speed and climb up the tracks we are filled with a sense of joy and delight. These feelings are quickly replaced with anticipation, panic, and fear as the roller coaster plunges into the “abyss.”
Current Trends and Future Perspectives of Antimutagenic Agents
Authors: M. AbdelHakem Adel , M.N. Abdelhafez El-Shimaa
Published: May 2020

Mutation is the process leading to heritable changes in DNA caused mainly by internal and external factors. Recently, studies on mutagenic agents have been increased due to increasing in mutation-related disease. The antimutagenic effect is desired to prevent mutation on genes or to inactivate the mutagenic agent. It seems that the interest in antimutagenic substances displaying multiple mechanisms of action will be an important trend in the research and development of new antimutagenic compounds in the near future. Therefore, this chapter displays various possible mechanisms of action for antimutagenic agent and introduces different types of antimutagens, natural and synthetic, that are considered very important.
Boundary Integral Equations of no Stationary Boundary Value Problems for the Klein-Gordon Equation
Authors: Aigulim Bayegizova , Assiyat Dadayeva
Published: May 2020

The non-stationary boundary value problems for Klein-Gordon equation with Dirichlet or Neumann conditions on the boundary of the domain of definition are considered; a uniqueness of boundary value problems is proved. Based on the generalized functions method, boundary integral equations method is developed to solve the posed problems in strengths of shock waves. Dynamic analogs of Green’s formulas for solutions in the space of generalized functions are obtained and their regular integral representations are constructed in 2D and 3D over space cases. The singular boundary integral equations are obtained which resolve these tasks.
Predictive and Prognosis Factors of Clinical Utility in Mesothelioma
Authors: Jeronimo Rafael Rodríguez-Cid , Rodrigo Rafael Flores-Mariñelarena
Published: May 2020

The constant research in therapeutics for mesothelioma has been improving their tumor response and overall survival, generating the need to propose markers that guide the doctor’s therapeutic approach in a more precise way. Recently, different predictive factors have been proposed, such as mesothelin-related peptides, fibulin-3, and osteopontin associated with an image giving information about the probability of tumor response to a therapeutic agent or a combination of agents. As is well known, the importance of prognostic markers of utility lies in providing prospective information on the evolution of the patient and thus their ability to guide therapeutic decisions. Although the clinical stage and histology are currently the most described prognostic factors, recent studies have shown interest in the expression of estrogen receptor beta and calretinin, among other promising factors. Given the heterogeneity of this broad field of research in mesothelioma, it is necessary to objectively present the prognostic and predictive factors of greater clinical utility.
Identification of Eigen-Frequencies and Mode-Shapes of Beams with Continuous Distribution of Mass and Elasticity and for Various Conditions at Supports
Authors: K. Makarios Triantafyllos
Published: May 2020

In the present article, an equivalent three degrees of freedom (DoF) system of two different cases of inverted pendulums is presented for each separated case. The first case of inverted pendulum refers to an amphi-hinge pendulum that possesses distributed mass and stiffness along its height, while the second case of inverted pendulum refers to an inverted pendulum with distributed mass and stiffness along its height. These vertical pendulums have infinity number of degree of freedoms. Based on the free vibration of the above-mentioned pendulums according to partial differential equation, a mathematically equivalent three-degree of freedom system is given for each case, where its equivalent mass matrix is analytically formulated with reference on specific mass locations along the pendulum height. Using the three DoF model, the first three fundamental frequencies of the real pendulum can be identified with very good accuracy. Furthermore, taking account the 3 × 3 mass matrix, it is possible to estimate the possible pendulum damages using a known technique of identification mode-shapes via records of response accelerations. Moreover, the way of instrumentation with a local network by three accelerometers is given via the above-mentioned three degrees of freedom.
Drug Repurposing in Oncotherapeutics
Authors: Patel Alkeshkumar
Published: May 2020

Repurposing or repositioning means validating and application of previously approved drugs in the treatment of another disease that might be relevant or irrelevant to existing use in disease based on the principle of polypharmacology. Repurposed drugs are already well documented for pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, drug interaction, and toxicity parameters. In 1962, thalidomide treatment in pregnant women led to phocomelia in their newborn but while repurposed based on anti-angiogenesis property, it showed efficacy in hematologic malignancies like multiple myeloma. The repurposing is becoming an essential tool in the anti-cancer drug development due to existing drugs are not effective, high cost of treatment, therapy may degrade the quality of life, improvement of survival after treatment is not guaranteed, relapse may occur, and drug resistance may develop due to tumor heterogeneity. Repurposing can be addressed well with the help of literature-based discovery, high throughput technology, bioinformatics multi-omics approaches, side effects, and phenotypes. Many regulatory bodies like EML, NIH, and FDA promote repurposing programs that support the identification of alternative uses of existing medicines. Cancer becomes the major health issue, and the need to discover promising anti-cancer drugs through repurposing remains very high due to decline in FDA approval since 1990, huge expenses incurred in the drug development and prediction of dangerous future burden.
DCLK1 and DNA Damage Response
Authors: Panneerselvam Janani , Qu Dongfeng , Houchen Courtney , Bronze Michael , Chandrakesan Parthasarathy
Published: May 2020

Genome integrity is constantly monitored by sophisticated cellular networks, collectively termed as the DNA damage response (DDR). The DDR is a signaling network that includes cell cycle checkpoints and DNA repair and damage tolerance pathways. Failure of the DDR or associated events causes various diseases, including cancer. DDR is primarily mediated by phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase-like protein kinase (PIKKs) family members ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein (ATR). However, one of the many unanswered questions regarding these signal-transduction pathways is: how does the cell turn the DDR signals on? There was no conclusive demonstration of the involvement of a specific sensory kinase in DDR signals until our recent research on the DCLK1 role in regulating ATM after genotoxic injury. Currently, various studies are demonstrating the importance of DCLK1 in DNA damage response. Here, we discuss the novel insights into the role of DCLK1 in DNA damage response.
Reflexiones interactivas
Authors: Bastos Juan Luis
Published: May 2020

Partamos de la base de que la interactividad no es exclusiva de los medios digitales. Existen multitud de formatos publicitarios en los que la interactividad es protagonista, desde una valla publicitaria, hasta una doble página de revistas. Para entender la interactividad en comunicación debemos primero definirla: la interactividad es, en esencia, generar una experiencia de intercambio entre una marca y un consumidor. Esta experiencia generada sirve, en el caso de la publicidad, para establecer una comunicación bidireccional en la que las dos partes obtienen un aprendizaje.
Art Futura 2005: reflexiones vivas, creadores sensibles
Authors: Albaladejo Carlos
Published: May 2020

El concepto sobre el que se había planteado la programación, 'Objetos vivos, espacios sensibles', quedó perfectamente explicado con las intervenciones de nombres de importancia como el novelista Bruce Sterling, el artista Theo Jansen, los ilustradores de Studio Grangel o los creadores digitales nipones Iroshi Ishii y Toshio Iwai.
De iconos a realidades mezcladas
Authors: Rogers Yvonne
Published: May 2020

Mi investigación se centra en aumentar y extender las actividades diarias de trabajo y aprendizaje con tecnologías interactivas. Esto incluye el diseño de experiencias de usuario mejoradas ensamblando y apropiándome de una variedad de tecnologías que incluyen la informática pervasive (omnipresente), las comunicaciones inalámbricas y las tecnologías móviles. El foco de interés principal no es la tecnología per se, sino el diseño e integración de las representaciones externas que se presentan mediante esta tecnología para dar apoyo a actividades cognitivas y sociales en formas que extienden radicalmente nuestras capacidades actuales.
Creación de juegos para la red, un proyecto multimedia
Authors: Agelet Ferran
Published: May 2020

El pasado mes de enero finalizó la tercera edición del curso Creación de Juegos para la web, una asignatura de libre elección para aquellos que se encuentran en el tramo final del ciclo del Graduado Multimedia de la Universitat Oberta de Catalunya. En esta edición 2004-2005, que tuvo lugar en el primer semestre del presente curso académico, han participado un total de 22 estudiantes.
Creación de Juegos para la web es una materia totalmente basada en la programación en entorno Macromedia Flash y está orientada específicamente a la creación de un juego para la world wide web, lo que permite al estudiante experimentar el proceso completo de desarrollo de un proyecto multimedia: desde la concepción de una idea propia, hasta su implementación final pasando por la preparación de los diferentes ‘media’, especialmente gráficos y sonidos.
Claves para entender el funcionamiento del vídeo digital
Authors: Marín Antoni
Published: May 2020

Hasta no hace mucho tiempo el vídeo e Internet eran prácticamente dos mundos aparte, dos universos sin casi intersección. El vídeo, divulgado a través de televisión o visionado a través de reproductores domésticos, se caracterizaba por ser un media rico en experiencias que se aproximaba a la experiencia visual diaria. Internet se asemejaba a un territorio amplio, sin límites, en el que la búsqueda de contenidos era rápida y carente de fronteras pero limitada a un cierto tipo de información. El vídeo, por una parte como consecuencia del gran volumen de datos que genera y por otra por las limitaciones del ancho de banda disponible en la red, era un elemento poco habitual en Internet.
DISPLAYED OBJECTS OF THE PAVILION OF INDONESIA AT THE 1986-1992 WORLD EXPO AS REPRESENTATION OF THE NEW ORDER’S IDEOLOGY
Authors: Tjahjawulan Indah
Published: May 2020

This research delves into the pavilions of Indonesia in World Expo, which is a world class cultural event involving so many countries all over the world as participants and it also attracts millions of people coming to the event of 3 to 6 months duration. Throughout the administration of Soeharto under the regime of New Order Indonesia had participated in six World Expo events out of ten events being organized; this shows how important the role of this event for Indonesia. However, from one Expo to another, it is curious that the objects chosen to be displayed in the pavilion are in fact a repetition so it raises question whether there is a certain concept being emphasized in each Expo event that the New Order regime would like to pass on by means of the displayed items continuously and whether such repetition can be considered as a form of framing and a confirmation of the symbol of power that the New Order want to show. This research is a cultural studies using qualitative approach that delve in data taken from a variety of documents such as photographs, reports compiled by committees, newspaper, magazines and internet. Data is scrutinized with semiotics analysis and theories of semiotics and framing in order to see how text is regarded as message by way of reading the created representation closely and also how the context of New Order government tried to ‘package’ it and to put the focus on the elements of objects of display in Indonesia’s pavilion at the World Expo. This research results in findings that uncover (1) meaning and representation of the objects of display of the 1986, 1988, 1992 and (2) representation of objects of display in the pavilion of 1986, 1988 and 1992 World Expo as construction of the ideology of New Order
Schools for Thought
Authors: Bruer John T.
Published: May 2020

Schools for Thought provides a straightforward, general introduction to cognitive research and illustrates its importance for educational change.

If we want to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for all children, we must start applying what we know about mental functioning—how children think, learn, and remember in our schools. We must apply cognitive science in the classroom. Schools for Thought provides a straightforward, general introduction to cognitive research and illustrates its importance for educational change.

Using classroom examples, Bruer shows how applying cognitive research can dramatically improve students' transitions from lower-level rote skills to advanced proficiency in reading, writing, mathematics, and science. Cognitive research, he points out, is also beginning to suggest how we might better motivate students, design more effective tools for assessing them, and improve the training of teachers. He concludes with a chapter on how effective school reform demands that we expand our understanding of teaching and learning and that we think about education in new ways. Debates and discussions about the reform of American education suffer from a lack of appreciation of the complexity of learning and from a lack of understanding about the knowledge base that is available for the improvement of educational practice. Politicians, business leaders, and even many school superintendents, principals, and teachers think that educational problems can be solved by changing school management structures or by creating a market in educational services. Bruer argues that improvement depends instead on changing student-teacher interactions. It is these changes, guided by cognitive research, that will create more effective classroom environments.

Bradford Books imprint
Novel insights into breast cancer copy number genetic heterogeneity revealed by single-cell genome sequencing
Authors: Baslan Timour , Kendall Jude , Volyanskyy Konstantin , McNamara Katherine , Cox Hilary , D'Italia Sean , Ambrosio Frank , Riggs Michael , Rodgers Linda , Leotta Anthony , Song Junyan , Mao Yong , Wu Jie , Shah Ronak , Gularte-Mérida Rodrigo , Chadalavada Kalyani , Nanjangud Gouri , Varadan Vinay , Gordon Assaf , Curtis Christina , Krasnitz Alex , Dimitrova Nevenka , Harris Lyndsay , Wigler Michael , Hicks James
Published: May 2020

Copy number alterations (CNAs) play an important role in molding the genomes of breast cancers and have been shown to be clinically useful for prognostic and therapeutic purposes. However, our knowledge of intra-tumoral genetic heterogeneity of this important class of somatic alterations is limited. Here, using single-cell sequencing, we comprehensively map out the facets of copy number alteration heterogeneity in a cohort of breast cancer tumors. Ou/var/www/html/elife/12-05-2020/backup/r analyses reveal: genetic heterogeneity of non-tumor cells (i.e. stroma) within the tumor mass; the extent to which copy number heterogeneity impacts breast cancer genomes and the importance of both the genomic location and dosage of sub-clonal events; the pervasive nature of genetic heterogeneity of chromosomal amplifications; and the association of copy number heterogeneity with clinical and biological parameters such as polyploidy and estrogen receptor negative status. Our data highlight the power of single-cell genomics in dissecting, in its many forms, intra-tumoral genetic heterogeneity of CNAs, the magnitude with which CNA heterogeneity affects the genomes of breast cancers, and the potential importance of CNA heterogeneity in phenomena such as therapeutic resistance and disease relapse.
Spontaneous and evoked neurotransmission are partially segregated at inhibitory synapses
Authors: Horvath Patricia M , Piazza Michelle K , Monteggia Lisa M , Kavalali Ege T
Published: May 2020

Synaptic transmission is initiated via spontaneous or action-potential evoked fusion of synaptic vesicles. At excitatory synapses, glutamatergic receptors activated by spontaneous and evoked neurotransmission are segregated. Although inhibitory synapses also transmit signals spontaneously or in response to action potentials, they differ from excitatory synapses in both structure and function. Therefore, we hypothesized that inhibitory synapses may have different organizing principles. We report picrotoxin, a GABAAR antagonist, blocks neurotransmission in a use-dependent manner at rat hippocampal synapses and therefore can be used to interrogate synaptic properties. Using this tool, we uncovered partial segregation of inhibitory spontaneous and evoked neurotransmission. We found up to 40% of the evoked response is mediated through GABAARs which are only activated by evoked neurotransmission. These data indicate GABAergic spontaneous and evoked neurotransmission processes are partially non-overlapping, suggesting they may serve divergent roles in neuronal signaling.
Synergism of type 1 metabotropic and ionotropic glutamate receptors in cerebellar molecular layer interneurons in vivo
Authors: Bao Jin , Graupner Michael , Astorga Guadalupe , Collin Thibault , Jalil Abdelali , Indriati Dwi Wahyu , Bradley Jonathan , Shigemoto Ryuichi , Llano Isabel
Published: May 2020

Type 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR1s) are key elements in neuronal signaling. While their function is well documented in slices, requirements for their activation in vivo are poorly understood. We examine this question in adult mice in vivo using 2-photon imaging of cerebellar molecular layer interneurons (MLIs) expressing GCaMP. In anesthetized mice, parallel fiber activation evokes beam-like Cai rises in postsynaptic MLIs which depend on co-activation of mGluR1s and ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs). In awake mice, blocking mGluR1 decreases Cai rises associated with locomotion. In vitro studies and freeze-fracture electron microscopy show that the iGluR-mGluR1 interaction is synergistic and favored by close association of the two classes of receptors. Altogether our results suggest that mGluR1s, acting in synergy with iGluRs, potently contribute to processing cerebellar neuronal signaling under physiological conditions.
A Gap Prepulse with a Principal Stimulus Yields a Combined Auditory Late Response
Authors: Lee Jae-Hun , Jung Jae Yun , Park Ilyong
Published: May 2020

Background and Objectives: The gap prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle response has been used to screen tinnitus in an animal model. Here, we examined changes in the auditory late response under various conditions of gap prepulse inhibition.Subjects and Methods: We recruited 19 healthy adults (5 males, 14 females) and their auditory late responses were recorded after various stimuli with or without gap prepulsing. The N1 and P2 responses were selected for analysis. The gap prepulse inhibition was estimated to determine the optimal auditory late response in the gap prepulse paradigm.Results: We found that the gap per se generated a response that was very similar to the response elicited by sound stimuli. This critically affected the gap associated with the maximal inhibition of the stimulus response. Among the various gap-stimulus intervals (GSIs) between the gap and principal stimulus, the GSI of 150 ms maximally inhibited the response. However, after zero padding was used to minimize artifacts after a P2 response to a gap stimulus, the differences among the GSIs disappeared.Conclusions: Overall, the data suggest that both the prepulse inhibition and the gap per se should be considered when using the gap prepulse paradigm to assess tinnitus in humans.
Cu (II) Complex of 1- Naphthaldehyde Semicarbazone: Synthesis, Characterization, Thermal Analysis and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Sarker Dipta , Hossen Md. Faruk , Kudrat-E-Zahan Md. , Haque Md. Masuqul , Zamir Rausan , Asraf Md. Ali
Published: May 2020

The ligand, L is the Schiff base formed by condensation of 1- naphthaldehyde with semicarbazide and its Cu(II) complex have been synthesized and characterized by elemental and thermogravimetric analysis and molar conductivity, magnetic and spectroscopic measurements. Elemental analysis of the chelate suggests the stoichiometry is 1:1 (metal-ligand). Infrared spectra of the complex agree with the coordination to the central metal atom through the nitrogen of the azomethine (-HC=N-) group and the carbonyl oxygen atom. Magnetic susceptibility data suggest a tetrahedral geometry for the complex. ESI-MS data also supports the proposed structure of the synthesized compounds. The ligand and its copper complex have been screened for their antibacterial activity against Enterobacter aerogenes and Bacillus cereus. The metal complex were shown to possess more antibacterial activity than the uncomplexed ligand.
Career Flexibility: A Panacea to Skills Obsolescence
Authors: Chifamba Constance
Published: May 2020

A survey was carried out in Harare on young people who have completed college or University. The main objective was to analyse the employment status of youth in relation to the skills they have. Results indicated that the majority of the respondents are not formally employed, or those employed are not employed in the jobs they trained for. As a result, there is a high level of skills mismatch leading to skills obsolescence. Many graduates are unemployed or have resorted to self- employment or some type of entrepreneurship. The results also indicate that most of the research participants are engaged in hybrid jobs, mainly technical jobs so as to reduce the impact of skills obsolescence and at the same time earn some money to make a living. The study recommends that young people be encouraged to train in multi disciplines whilst in University or College so as to have career flexibility and competitive advantage when they graduate.
On a Retrial Queueing Model with Customer Induced Interruption
Authors: Jacob Varghese
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a retrial queueing system with customer induced interruption while in service. We consider a single server queueing system of infinite capacity to which customers arrive according to a Poisson process and the service time follows an exponential distribution.An arriving customer to an idle server obtains service immediately and customers who find server busy go directly to the orbit from where he retry for service. The inter-retrial time follows exponential distribution. The customer interruption while in service occurs according to a Poisson process and the interruption duration follows an exponential distribution. The customer whose service is got interrupted will enter into a finite buffer. Any interrupted customer, finding the buffer full, is considered lost. Those interrupted customers who complete their interruptions will be placed into another buffer of same size. The interrupted customers waiting for service are given non-preemptive priority over new customers. We analyse the steady-state behavior of this queuing system. Several performance measures are obtained. Numerical illustrations of the system behaviour are also provided with example.
Biomineralization of Bacteria by a Metal–Organic Framework for Therapeutic Delivery
Authors: Yan Shuangqian , Zeng Xuemei , Wang Yu , Liu Bi‐Feng
Published: May 2020

Biomimetic mineralization of live organisms shows extraordinary promise in biotechnology. However, their therapeutic applications have been insufficiently explored. Herein, it is demonstrated that metal–organic framework (MOF)‐engineered bacteria are powerful carriers for tumor‐targeted therapeutic delivery. Specifically, Escherichia coli (MG1655) is coated with a zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 layer coloaded with a photosensitizer and chemical drug through a one‐step in situ method. The as‐prepared bacteria@MOF hybrid preserves its viability and tumor selectivity. It exhibits high therapeutic efficacy both in vitro and in vivo in a combined chemo‐photodynamic manner. To the best of knowledge, this is the first report of engineered bacteria@MOFs for in vivo tumor treatment. This study opens a new horizon for the bioapplications of biomineralized organisms and may provide novel strategies against tumors.
Composite Encapsulation Films with Ultrahigh Barrier Performance for Improving the Reliability of Blue Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Li Yun , Cao Kun , Xiong Ying fei , Yang Huizhi , Zhang Yinghao , Lin Yuan , Zhou Binze , Huang Jing , Chen Rong
Published: May 2020

This work presents a facile method to fabricate composite encapsulation bilayer films with ultrahigh barrier performance for the blue organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). The encapsulation film is composed of the SiNx and Al2O3 layers prepared via incorporation of plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) and spatial atomic layer deposition (S‐ALD) methods. It is found that the hybrid bilayer films possess excellent barrier performance with water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of ≈10−6 g m−2 day−1 and a long lag time. No black spots are found when applied to the blue OLEDs for more than 1000 h under the accelerated aging condition. The improved stability of the composite barrier originates from introduction of the nanoscale Al2O3 to SiNx layer, leading to the decrease of the stored strain energy. Besides, the Al2O3 layer could help decouple the pinholes on the SiNx surfaces, which blocks permeation of the moisture to degrade the OLEDs. The interface toughness between the OLED and barrier remains stable, which hinders the delamination of the SiNx layer in the severe environment completely.
Atomic Investigation on the Facet‐Dependent Melting of Ceramic Nanostructures via In Situ Electron Irradiation
Authors: Bo Arixin , Liu Qiong , Zhan Haifei , Shi Xiaolei , Chen Zhi‐Gang , Gu Yuantong
Published: May 2020

Thermodynamic behavior investigations on nanomaterials are of great scientific interest and possess technological implications for advancing nanoscience and nanotechnology. However, nanoscale thermodynamic studies on ceramic semiconductors are faced with great challenges due to their thermostability, and there lacks a percipient understanding of their atomistic thermal behaviors. Here, the atomic‐scale mechanism of the melting and coalescence processes of binary semiconductors, including rutile TiO2(R) and SnSe nanostructures, via real‐time electron beam (e‐beam) irradiation is reported. Under the e‐beam, the inelastic electron‐matter interactions and the low thermal conductivity of the samples cause a local temperature increase. The in situ melting process is recorded via high‐resolution TEM imaging, which exclusively shows a specific planar melting order of the (001), (011), and (100) for TiO2(R). This measurement provides direct evidence that matches the surface energy differences predicted by existing theoretical calculations and experiments. A similar phenomenon is induced and observed on SnSe, which derives a particular melting order of (210), (211), and (002). Furthermore, the in situ melting and coalescence analysis of ultrafine TiO2(R) nanoparticles suggests surface atom transfer and recrystallization as observed. The demonstration of e‐beam directed shape formation and tailoring reveals the possibility for nano/microscale processing of ceramic nanostructures, which are otherwise considered chemically stable and mechanically robust.
Multi‐Scale In Situ Tribological Studies of Surfaces with 3D Textures Fabricated via Two‐Photon Lithography and Replica Molding
Authors: Afshar‐Mohajer Mahyar , Zou Min
Published: May 2020

Surface texturing not only decreases friction by reducing the real area of contact but also is crucial for achieving multifunctionality. However, texturing a surface might undermine its deformation resistance due to increased sliding contact pressure. High resolution, 3D control over texture shapes can potentially address this issue. Utilizing a micro/nano‐scale additive manufacturing method based on two‐photon polymerization, textures are fabricated with precise shape, dimension, and position control. This allows for a systematic investigation of the effects of texture three‐dimensionality by comparing 3D textures (truncated cones) with 2.5D textures (cylinders and rods). Moreover, macro‐ and micro‐scale tribological testing and in situ monitoring of the experiments using a digital microscope at macro‐scale and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) at micro‐scale provides unique insights into the multi‐scale tribological properties of the textured surfaces by real‐time monitoring of the interplay between the forces and the sliding surfaces down to a single micro‐scale structure level. Macro‐scale tests show that cones not only have a lower coefficient of friction due to their reduced area of contact but also slide more smoothly and are more durable. Micro‐scale tests shed new light on the relationship between friction and the microstructure deformation by in situ SEM monitoring of texture‐counterface interactions.
Photoactive Metal–Organic Framework@Porous Organic Polymer Nanocomposites with pH‐Triggered Type I Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Liu Wan , Chen Li , Wang Lei , Xie Zhigang
Published: May 2020

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising treatment for cancer, but the hypoxic tumor microenvironment limits its therapeutic effect, especially in these oxygen‐dependent PDT‐II systems. Herein, a nanoporous MOF@POP composite, named UBP, is synthesized by template strategy to effectively integrate BODIPY‐contained porous organic polymers (POP) and MOF within one system. Such UBP possesses well dispersibility and pH‐triggered type I photodynamic performance, which shows a selected toxicity to cancer cells (HeLa cells) but less damage to normal cells (L929 cells).
Thermo‐Phototronic Effect Induced Electricity in Long Semiconducting ZnO Materials for Self‐Powered Light and Temperature Sensors
Authors: Gao Tiantian , Ji Yun , Yang Ya
Published: May 2020

Self‐powered multi‐functional sensors are expected to play an important role in the internet of things technology because they do not need external power and can monitor environmental variations. Previous investigations about sensors have mainly focused on the monitoring of one stimulus, while the simultaneous detection of temperature and light is still a challenge. Here, a two‐parameter sensor with Ohmic contact is reported, which realizes the functions of individually and simultaneously detecting light and temperature via the thermo‐phototronic effect of ZnO ceramic material. The output current signals of the sensor at a light intensity of 0.24 W cm–2 and under a temperature gradient of 9.5 K across the device are 7.14 µA and 45.61 µA, respectively, and the total current is 52.77 µA when the two conditions co‐exist at the same time. This study provides a new research direction into the thermo‐phototronic effect to realize multi‐functional self‐powered sensor systems via oxide semiconducting materials.
A General Approach to Shaped MOF‐Containing Aerogels toward Practical Water Treatment Application
Authors: Cheng Ping , Kim Minjun , Lim Hyunsoo , Lin Jianjian , Torad Nagy L. , Zhang Xiaogang , Hossain Md. Shahriar A. , Wu Chia‐Wen , Wang Chaohai , Na Jongbeom , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: May 2020

Porous materials are widely studied for water purification and treatment as they can function as efficient adsorbents for harmful chemical wastes with their high specific surface areas. Among various types of porous materials, metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising adsorbents for organic pollutants although the general powder form of MOFs largely limits their recyclability in practical applications. Herein, highly crystalline MOF particles are incorporated into agarose (AG) to fabricate highly recyclable MOF aerogels. Along with greatly improved recyclability, these MOF aerogels also achieve eco‐friendliness and cost‐effectiveness because AG is highly abundant in nature and can be easily modified. Typically, MOF aerogels are synthesized by uniformly dispersing MOF particles into the AG solution. The resulting MOF aerogels show significantly improved efficiency for dye adsorption. It is believed that this fabrication method for the preparation of MOF aerogels is highly versatile and it can be extended to other types of MOFs for different applications including environmental remediation, energy storage and conversion, and sensing.
Glucosylated Polymeric Micelles Actively Target a Breast Cancer Model
Authors: Lecot Nicole , Glisoni Romina , Oddone Natalia , Benech Juan , Fernández Marcelo , Gambini Juan Pablo , Cabral Pablo , Sosnik Alejandro
Published: May 2020

This work investigates the potential of glycosylation to actively target nanodrug delivery systems to adult solid tumors overexpressing glucose transporters. The highly hydrophobic fluorescent compound curcumin (CUR) is nanoencapsulated within polymeric micelles of pristine and glucosylated poly(ethylene oxide)‐poly(propylene oxide) block copolymers, and their interaction with breast cancer (BC) cells is investigated in vitro and in vivo. The aqueous solubility of CUR is increased more than 50 000‐fold and spherical nanoparticles display size in the 40 to 500 nm range, as determined by transmission electron microscopy and by dynamic light scattering, respectively. Uptake studies conducted in the BC cell line 4T1 in vitro demonstrate that glucosylation enhances nanoparticle internalization. Finally, the ability of unmodified and glucosylated polymeric micelles to accumulate in female BALB/c mice bearing 4T1‐induced tumors is compared by ex vivo bioimaging with auspicious results.
Conductive Boron Nitride as Promising Catalyst Support for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Liu Hui , Zhang Xing‐Hua , Li Ying‐Xin , Li Xiang , Dong Cun‐Ku , Wu De‐Yao , Tang Cheng‐Chun , Chou Shu‐Lei , Fang Fang , Du Xi‐Wen
Published: May 2020

Catalyst support with good conductivity and stability is an eternal pursuit in the search for a high‐performance electrocatalyst. Here, an unusual catalyst support, laser‐modified boron nitride with C, O dopants (L‐BN), for the oxygen evolution reaction is reported. L‐BN exhibits unique advantages for electrocatalysis, namely, high corrosion resistance under oxidizing conditions, enhanced electrical conductivity arising from interlayer B–B dipolar interaction, and strong interaction with IrOx catalyst caused by NCN bonds. As an excellent substrate, L‐BN helps to achieve higher activity and stability than its carbon black counterpart.
High‐Performance Tandem Organic Solar Cells Using HSolar as the Interconnecting Layer
Authors: Ho Carr Hoi Yi , Kim Taesoo , Xiong Yuan , Firdaus Yuliar , Yi Xueping , Dong Qi , Rech Jeromy J. , Gadisa Abay , Booth Ronald , O'Connor Brendan T. , Amassian Aram , Ade Harald , You Wei , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , So Franky
Published: May 2020

Tandem structure provides a practical way to realize high efficiency organic photovoltaic cells, it can be used to extend the wavelength coverage for light harvesting. The interconnecting layer (ICL) between subcells plays a critical role in the reproducibility and performance of tandem solar cells, yet the processability of the ICL has been a challenge. In this work the fabrication of highly reproducible and efficient tandem solar cells by employing a commercially available material, PEDOT:PSS HTL Solar (HSolar), as the hole transporting material used for the ICL is reported. Comparing with the conventional PEDOT:PSS Al 4083 (c‐PEDOT), HSolar offers a better wettability on the underlying nonfullerene photoactive layers, resulting in better charge extraction properties of the ICL. When FTAZ:IT‐M and PTB7‐Th:IEICO‐4F are used as the subcells, a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 14.7% is achieved in the tandem solar cell. To validate the processability of these tandem solar cells, three other research groups have successfully fabricated tandem devices using the same recipe and the highest PCE obtained is 16.1%. With further development of donor polymers and device optimization, the device simulation results show that a PCE > 22% can be realized in tandem cells in the near future.
Sodium hydrogen exchanger 9 NHE9 (SLC9A9) and its emerging roles in neuropsychiatric comorbidity
Authors: Patak Jameson , Faraone Stephen V. , Zhang‐James Yanli
Published: May 2020

Variations in SLC9A9 gene expression and protein function are associated with multiple human diseases, which range from Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to glioblastoma multiforme. In an effort to determine the full spectrum of human disease associations with SLC9A9, we performed a systematic review of the literature. We also review SLC9A9's biochemistry, protein structure, and function, as well as its interacting partners with the goal of identifying mechanisms of disease and druggable targets. We report gaps in the literature regarding the genes function along with consistent trends in disease associations that can be used to further research into treating the respective diseases. We report that SLC9A9 has strong associations with neuropsychiatric diseases and various cancers. Interestingly, we find strong overlap in SLC9A9 disease associations and propose a novel role for SLC9A9 in neuropsychiatric comorbidity. In conclusion, SLC9A9 is a multifunctional protein that, through both its endosome regulatory function and its protein–protein interaction network, has the ability to modulate signaling axes, such as the PI3K pathway, among others.
In vivo measurement of widespread synaptic loss in Alzheimer's disease with SV2A PET
Authors: Mecca Adam P. , Chen Ming‐Kai , O'Dell Ryan S. , Naganawa Mika , Toyonaga Takuya , Godek Tyler A. , Harris Joanna E. , Bartlett Hugh H. , Zhao Wenzhen , Nabulsi Nabeel B. , Wyk Brent C. Vander , Varma Pradeep , Arnsten Amy F. T. , Huang Yiyun , Carson Richard E. , van Dyck Christopher H.
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Synaptic loss is a robust and consistent pathology in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the major structural correlate of cognitive impairment. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) has emerged as a promising biomarker of synaptic density.

Methods

We measured SV2A binding in 34 participants with early AD and 19 cognitively normal (CN) participants using [11C]UCB‐J PET and a cerebellar reference region for calculation of the distribution volume ratio.

Results

We observed widespread reductions of SV2A binding in medial temporal and neocortical brain regions in early AD compared to CN participants. These reductions were largely maintained after correction for volume loss and were more extensive than decreases in gray matter volume.

Conclusion

We were able to measure widespread synaptic loss due to AD using [11C]UCB‐J PET. Future studies will continue to evaluate the utility of SV2A PET for tracking AD progression and for monitoring potential therapies.
Measurement and characterization of distinctive clinical phenotypes using the Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration Module (FTLD‐MOD)
Authors: Gefen Tamar , Teylan Merilee A. , Besser Lilah , Pollner Emma , Moshkovich Anna , Weintraub Sandra
Published: May 2020

Introduction

The Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration Module (FTLD‐MOD) was designed as a research neuropsychological battery to evaluate clinical symptoms associated with FTLD. This study investigated whether the FTLD‐MOD could differentiate between primary progressive aphasia (PPA) and behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), two distinct FTLD‐related syndromes.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was conducted on data collected from the initial visit of 165 subjects with PPA, 268 with bvFTD, and 251 cognitively normal controls from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center. Generalized linear models were used to compare group performance patterns on FTLD‐MOD tasks of language, behavior, and memory.

Results

PPA participants showed significantly poorer performances on all language tasks whereas bvFTD participants demonstrated poorer performances on most behavioral measures. There were no differences in memory performances. Descriptive data on participant groups are provided for reference.

Discussion

Findings from this multi‐center sample suggest that the FTLD‐MOD can differentiate between distinctive clinical phenotypes commonly associated with FTLD.
Viscoelastic and thermal properties of naturalrubber low‐density polyethylene composites with boric acid and borax
Authors: Abdulrahman Sajith Thottathil , Ahmad Zakiah , Thomas Sabu , Maria Hanna J. , Rahman Azerai Ali
Published: May 2020

The influence of boric acid (BA) and borax (BO) neutron‐absorbing fillers on thermal stability and viscoelastic behavior of natural rubber (NR) low‐density polyethylene composites has been studied. The thermal degradation and dynamic mechanical properties of the composites have been analyzed as a function of temperature. The results revealed the enhancement of thermal stability of the composites by the addition of BA and BO fillers. The flame resistance of the material was improved by the addition of both the fillers. The storage modulus was found to be dependent upon the temperature and nature of the filler. The amount of NR chains immobilized by filler particles has been quantified from dynamic mechanical analysis and secondary filler/filler interactions have been verified by the Payne effect analysis. Finally, the experimental results have been compared with theoretical predictions.
Development and optimization of N‐acetylneuraminic acid biosensors in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Zhang Xiaolong , Cao Yanting , Liu Yanfeng , Liu Long , Li Jianghua , Du Guocheng , Chen Jian
Published: May 2020

Transcriptional factor (TF)‐based metabolite‐responsive biosensors are important tools for screening engineered enzymes with desired properties and for the dynamic regulation of biosynthetic pathways. However, TF‐based biosensor construction is often constrained by undesired effects of TF‐binding site sequence insertion on gene expression and unpredictable optimal TF expression levels. In the present study, a stepwise TF‐based biosensor construction approach was developed using an N‐acetylneuraminic acid (NeuAc) biosensor for Bacillus subtilis, as a case study. Specifically, 12 promoters with various strengths were selected as the first promoter library. Next, binding site sequences for the NanR were inserted into various positions of the selected promoter sequences to develop the second promoter library, resulting in 6 engineered promoters containing TF‐binding site sequences (NanO), without major effects on promoter strength. NanR expression cassettes with different expression levels were further integrated to construct the biosensor library, yielding 9 NeuAc biosensors with efficient repression in the absence of NeuAc. Finally, biosensor activation was characterized by testing fold changes in expression levels of the green fluorescent protein reporter in the presence of NeuAc in vivo, which revealed 61‐fold activation when NeuAc was present. The NeuAc biosensor developed in this study can be used for screening engineered enzymes for enhanced NeuAc biosynthesis in B. subtilis.
Towards a digital twin: a hybrid data‐driven and mechanistic digital shadow to forecast the evolution of lignocellulosic fermentation
Authors: Lopez Pau Cabaneros , Udugama Isuru A. , Thomsen Sune T. , Roslander Christian , Junicke Helena , Mauricio‐Iglesias Miguel , Gernaey Krist V.
Published: May 2020

The high substrate variability and complexity of fermentation media derived from lignocellulosic feedstock affects the concentration profiles and the length of the fermentation. Failing to account for such variability raises operational and scheduling issues and affects the overall performance of these processes. In this work, a hybrid soft sensor was developed to monitor and forecast the evolution of cellulose‐to‐ethanol fermentation. The soft sensor consisted of two modules (a data‐driven model and a kinetic model) connected sequentially. The data‐driven module used a partial‐least‐squares model to estimate the current state of glucose from spectroscopic data. The kinetic model was recursively fitted to known concentrations of glucose to update the long‐horizon predictions of glucose, xylose, and ethanol. This combination of real‐time data update from an actual fermentation process to a high‐fidelity kinetic model constitutes the basis of the digital twin concept and allows for a better real‐time understanding of complex inhibition phenomena caused by different inhibitors commonly found in lignocellulosic feedstocks. The soft sensor was experimentally validated with three different cellulose‐to‐ethanol fermentations and the results suggested that this method is suitable for monitoring and forecasting fermentation when the measurements provide reasonably good estimates of the real state of the system. These results would allow the flexibility of the operation of cellulosic processes to be increased, and would permit the scheduling to be adapted to the inherent variability of such substrates © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Zur Berücksichtigung hypothetischer Opferzahlen in Lebenszykluskostenberechnungen von Brücken
Authors: Proske Dirk
Published: May 2020

Im Rahmen der Risiko‐ und Lebenszykluskostenbewertungen von Brücken treten neben der Einsturzwahrscheinlichkeit auch Schadensfolgen als Eingangsgrößen auf. Eine der bedeutendsten Schadensfolgen von Brückeneinstürzen sind Todesopfer. Im Rahmen dieses Beitrags werden zunächst bekannte Verfahren vorgestellt, um die sich daraus ergebenden Schadenskosten bzw. die hypothetische Anzahl von Todesopfern abschätzen. Im nächsten Schritt wird ein neues Verfahren entwickelt, welches den aktuellen Stand der Wissenschaft bezüglich der Brückeneinsturzursachen nutzt. Mit diesem Verfahren kann die hypothetische Anzahl der Opfer abhängig von den jeweiligen Verhältnissen an der Brücke bzw. vom Brückentyp geschätzt werden.