bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulating Steric Hindrance in Redox‐Active Porous Organic Frameworks Achieves Enhanced Sodium Storage Performance
Authors: Shan Yilin , He Yanyan , Yang Na , Zhu Xiang , Liu Honglai , Jiang Hao , Li Chunzhong
Published: December 2021

The development of novel redox‐active polymers for sustainable sodium ion batteries (SIBs) has captured growing attention, but battery performance has been significantly limited by poor reversible specific capacities, where the majority of aromatic C6‐benzene linkages are redox inactive. Here, a simple, yet efficient approach to improve sodium (Na) storage on these C6‐benzene rings within a porous polymeric framework by rationally regulating their steric hindrance is reported. Decreasing intrinsic hindrance affords a significant improvement in redox reaction kinetics within the porous architecture, thereby facilitating the acceptance of Na ions on these functionalized benzene rings and boosting the SIB performance. As a result, the modulate porous framework exhibits an exceptional battery capacity of 376 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 1.0 A g−1, which is ≈1.5 times larger than that of the pristine framework. Furthermore, the performance can reach as high as 510 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, comparable to that of the best‐performing polymeric electrodes. The simple modulation approach not only enables Na storage modulation on functionalized C6‐benzene rings, but also simultaneously provides a means to extend the understanding of the structure‐property relationship and facilitate new possibilities for organic SIBs.
Highly Efficient Multi‐Resonance Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Material with a Narrow Full Width at Half‐Maximum of 0.14 eV
Authors: Liu Futong , Cheng Zhuang , Wan Liang , Feng Zijun , Liu Hui , Jin Haixu , Gao Lei , Lu Ping , Yang Wensheng
Published: December 2021

Multi‐resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) material, which possesses the ability to achieve narrowband emission in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), is of significant importance for wide color gamut and high‐resolution display applications. To date, MR‐TADF material with narrow full width at half‐maximum (FWHM) below 0.14 eV still remains a great challenge. Herein, through peripheral protection of MR framework by phenyl derivatives, four efficient narrowband MR‐TADF emitters are successfully designed and synthesized. The introduction of peripheral phenyl‐based moieties via a single bond significantly suppresses the high‐frequency stretching vibrations and reduces the reorganization energies, accordingly deriving the resulting molecules with small FWMH values around 20 nm/0.11 eV and fast radiative decay rates exceeding 108 s−1. The corresponding green OLED based on TPh‐BN realizes excellent performance with the maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) up to 28.9% without utilizing any sensitizing host and a relatively narrow FWHM of 0.14 eV (28 nm), which is smaller than the reported green MR‐TADF molecules in current literatures. Especially, the devices show significantly reduced efficiency roll‐off and relatively long operational lifetimes among the sensitizer‐free MR‐TADF devices. These results clearly indicate the promise of this design strategy for highly efficient OLEDs with ultra‐high color purity.
Photochromic Naphthopyran Dyes Incorporating a Benzene, Thiophene, or Furan Spacer: Effect on Photochromic, Optoelectronic, and Photovoltaic Properties in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Liotier Johan , Mwalukuku Valid Mwatati , Fauvel Samuel , Riquelme Antonio J. , Anta Juan A. , Maldivi Pascale , Demadrille Renaud
Published: December 2021

It is recently demonstrated that diaryl‐naphthopyran photochromic dyes are efficient for sensitization of TiO2 mesoporous electrodes, thus allowing the fabrication of photochromo‐voltaic cells that can self‐adapt their absorption of light and their generation of electricity with the light intensity. Herein, the synthesis and characterization of two photochromic dyes based on a diaryl‐naphthopyran core, NPI‐ThPh and NPIFuPh, for use in dye sensitized solar cells is reported. Compared to the reference dye NPI, the molecules vary by the nature of the spacer, a thiophene or a furan, connecting the photochromic unit and the anchoring function. It was found that swapping a phenyl for a thiophene or a furan leads to an improvement of the absorption properties of the molecules, both in solution and after grafting on TiO2 electrodes, however their photochromic process becomes not fully reversible. Despite better absorption in the visible range, the new dyes show poorer photochromic and photovoltaic properties in devices compared to NPI. Thanks to UV–Vis spectroscopy, theoretical modelling, electrical characterization of the cells, and impedance spectroscopy, the factors limiting their performances have been unraveled. This study contributes to better understand the connection between photochromic and photovoltaic properties, which is key to develop better performing molecules of this class.
Monitoring of Plastic Straining Degree of Components Made of Interstitial Free Steel after Uniaxial Tensile Test by the Use of Barkhausen Noise Technique
Authors: Schmidová Eva , Neslušan Miroslav , Ondruš Ján , Trojan Karel , Pitoňák Martin , Klejch Filip , Ramesha Sunil Kumar
Published: December 2021

The usability of the magnetic Barkhausen noise (MBN) technique for monitoring the critical state of plastic straining in the case of interstitial free (IF) steel is demonstrated. IF steels are frequently employed in the automotive industry (e.g., automotive body parts—doors, trunks, wheel arches, etc.), and rupture of components made of these steels occurs during cold forming. Alteration of microstructure expressed in many terms and the corresponding MBN features after the variable degree of plastic strains developed by the uniaxial tensile loading are investigated. It is reported that the effective value of MBN, as well as the shift of MBN envelopes toward higher magnetic fields, can be proposed as the suitable MBN features alerting the incoming matrix breakage. Moreover, the higher MBN in the direction of exerted load at the expense of the perpendicular direction can be found as a result of domain walls realignment.
The Ways of Science Through the Lens of the Woodward‐Hoffmann Rules. The Stories Begin[]**
Authors: Seeman Jeffrey I.
Published: December 2021

This is Paper 1 in a 27‐paper series on the history of the development of the Woodward‐Hoffmann rules, also known as the Principle of Conservation of Orbital Symmetry. In addition to presenting an outline of this series, this manuscript provides a short overview of the chemical problem eventually solved by the Woodward‐Hoffmann rules.
Tanshinone IIA inhibits Leu27IGF‐II‐induced insulin‐like growth factor receptor II signaling and myocardial apoptosis via estrogen receptor‐mediated Akt activation
Authors: Chou Shui Lian , Ramesh Samiraj , Kuo Chia‐Hua , Ali Ayaz , Ho Tsung‐Jung , Chang Ko Peng , Hsieh Dennis Jine‐Yuan , Kumar V. Bharath , Weng Yueh‐Shan , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: December 2021

Different stress condition stimulates the expression level of insulin‐like growth factor receptor II (IGF‐IIR) in cardiomyoblasts that lead to apoptosis. Tanshinone IIA (TSN), a pharmacologically active component from Danshen, has been shown cardioprotective effects against cardiac apoptosis induced by several stress conditions. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the cardioprotective effects of TSN IIA mediated through the estrogen receptor (ER) in order to inhibit the Leu27IGF‐II‐enhanced IGF‐IIR‐mediated cardiac apoptosis. The estrogenic activity of TSN IIA was examined after myocardial cells were pretreated with the ER antagonist, and inhibited the phospho‐inositide‐3 kinase (PI3K). Here, we found that TSN IIA significantly induced ER that phosphorylated Akt. Further, Akt activation considerably suppressed the Leu27IGF‐II induced IGF‐IIR expression level and the downstream effectors, including Gαq and calcineurin as well as mitochondrial dependent apoptosis proteins including Bad, cytochrome c, and active caspase‐3 that result in cardiac apoptosis resistance. However, the western blot analysis, JC‐1 staining, and terminal deoxynucleotide transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay revealed that TSN IIA attenuated Leu27IGF‐II‐induced IGF‐IIR mediated cardiac apoptosis was reversed by an ER antagonist such as ICI 182780, and PI3K inhibition. All these findings demonstrate that TSN IIA exerts estrogenic activity, which can activate PI3K‐Akt pathway, and thereby inhibits Leu27IGFII induced IGF‐IIR mediated cardiac apoptosis. Thus, TSN IIA can be considered as an effective therapeutic strategy against IGF‐IIR signaling cascade to suppress cardiac apoptosis.
miR‐222‐5p promotes dysfunction of human vascular smooth muscle cells by targeting RB1
Authors: Liu Yihang , Jiang Guopan , Lv Changzhi , Yang Chuang
Published: December 2021

Background

Coronary atherosclerosis (AS) is characterized by the formation of plaque in the vessel wall. The structural and functional changes of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) can promote plaque formation and induce plaque instability.

Objective

To investigate the functions and mechanism of miR‐222‐5p in VSMCs under the treatment of oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL).

Methods

miR‐222‐5p expression in ox‐LDL‐treated VSMCs and the serum of Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) knockout mice was detected by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The viability and migration of VSMCs were detected by Cell Counting Kit‐8 and Transwell assays. Protein levels of proliferation and migration‐related factors were evaluated by western blotting. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to explore the binding between miR‐222‐5p and retinoblastoma susceptibility protein (RB1) gene in VSMCs. ApoE‐knockout mice were infected with the lentivirus inhibiting miR‐222‐5p expression to explore the effect of miR‐222‐5p on pathological changes. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, trichrome staining, and Oil Red O staining were conducted to determine the necrotic core area and atherosclerotic lesion size in the ascending aorta of ApoE‐knockout mice.

Results

With the accumulation of ox‐LDL concentration and treatment time, miR‐222‐5p expression was gradually upregulated in VSMCs. Similarly, miR‐222‐5p expression was increased in the serum of ApoE‐knockout mice. miR‐222‐5p knockdown inhibited the proliferative and migratory abilities of ox‐LDL‐treated VSMCs, and the inhibitory effect on cellular behaviors was then significantly reversed by co‐knockdown of RB1. RB1 is a downstream target gene of miR‐222‐5p, and miR‐222‐5p bound with 3′‐untranslated region of RB1 in VSMCs. We further confirmed that miR‐222‐5p knockdown alleviated pathological changes and inhibited lipid deposition in the serum of ApoE‐knockout mice in vivo.

Conclusion

miR‐222‐5p accelerates the dysfunction of VSMCs and promotes pathological changes and lipid deposition in ApoE‐knockout mice by targeting RB1. The study may provide novel therapeutic targets for AS.
Deformations of supergravity and supersymmetry anomalies
Authors: Fröb Markus B. , Imbimbo Camillo , Risso Nicolò
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We present a BRST analysis of supersymmetry anomalies of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 supersymmetric quantum field theories with anomalous R symmetry. To this end, we consider the coupling of the matter theory to classical $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 new minimal supergravity. We point out that a supersymmetry anomaly cocycle associated to the U(1)R field does exist for this theory. It is non-trivial in the space of supergravity fields (and ghosts), but it becomes BRST-exact in the functional space that includes antifields. Equivalently, the U(1)R supersymmetry anomaly cocycle vanishes “on-shell”. It is therefore removable. However, to remove it — precisely because it is not trivial in the smaller space of fields — one needs to deform the supergravity BRST operator. This deformation is triggered, at first order in the anomaly coefficient, by a local operator S1 of ghost number 1. We give a cohomological characterization of S1 and compute it in full detail. At higher orders in the anomaly coefficient, we expect a priori that further deformations of the BRST rules are necessary.
One-loop structure of parton distribution for the gluon condensate and “zero modes”
Authors: Radyushkin Anatoly , Zhao Shuai
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We present results for one-loop corrections to the recently introduced “gluon condensate” PDF F(x). In particular, we give expression for the gg-part of its evolution kernel. To enforce strict compliance with the gauge invariance requirements, we have used on-shell states for external gluons, and have obtained identical results both in Feynman and light-cone gauges. No “zero mode” δ(x) terms were found for the twist-4 gluon PDF F(x). However a q2δ(x) term was found for the ξ = 0 GPD F(x, q2) at nonzero momentum transfer q. Overall, our results do not agree with the original attempt of one-loop calculations of F(x) for gluon states, which sets alarm warning for calculations that use matrix elements with virtual external gluons and for lattice renormalization procedures based on their results.
On Ulam Stability of a Generalized Delayed Differential Equation of Fractional Order
Authors: Brzdęk Janusz , Eghbali Nasrin , Kalvandi Vida
Published: December 2021

We investigate Ulam stability of a general delayed differential equation of a fractional order. We provide formulas showing how to generate the exact solutions of the equation using functions that satisfy it only approximately. Namely, the approximate solution $$\phi $$
ϕ
generates the exact solution as a pointwise limit of the sequence $$\varLambda ^n\phi $$

Λ
n

ϕ

with some integral (possibly, nonlinear) operator $$\varLambda $$
Λ
. We estimate the speed of convergence and the distance between those approximate and exact solutions. Moreover, we provide some exemplary calculations, involving the Chebyshev and Bielecki norms and some semigauges, that could help to obtain reasonable outcomes for such estimations in some particular cases. The main tool is the Diaz–Margolis fixed point alternative.
Equality of Ultradifferentiable Classes by Means of Indices of Mixed O-regular Variation
Authors: Jiménez-Garrido Javier , Sanz Javier , Schindl Gerhard
Published: December 2021

We characterize the equality between ultradifferentiable function classes defined in terms of abstractly given weight matrices and in terms of the corresponding matrix of associated weight functions by using new growth indices. These indices, defined by means of weight sequences and (associated) weight functions, are extending the notion of O-regular variation to a mixed setting. Hence we are extending the known comparison results concerning classes defined in terms of a single weight sequence and of a single weight function and give also these statements an interpretation expressed in O-regular variation.
Thermo-Pulsations-System (LipiFLow®) zur Behandlung der Meibom-Drüsen-Dysfunktion (MDD) aus der Sicht eines niedergelassenen Augenfacharztes
Authors: Laufenböck Christoph
Published: December 2021

Hintergrund

Die Thermo-Pulsation (LipiFlow®, Johnson & Johnson, Santa Ana, CA, USA) wurde zur Behandlung der Meibom-Drüsen-Dysfunktion (MDD) empfohlen und in mehreren Studien für nützlich befunden. Ziel dieser Studie war es, die Wirksamkeit der Methode an sich und im Vergleich zur täglichen Lidrandmassage in einer nichtuniversitären Einrichtung darzustellen.

Methoden

Eine nicht verblindete, Single-center-Interventionsstudie, die die Thermo-Pulsation mit einer Lidrandmassage zur Behandlung von MDD vergleicht: 30 Patienten wurden im Zuge der täglichen Sprechstunde rekrutiert. Die Symptome (OSDI) und die Augenoberfläche (NIK-BUT, Farnkraut-Test, Tränenmeniskus, LIPKO-Falten, Meibographie, Meibomian-Gland-Evaluator) wurden vor der Behandlung untersucht.; 15 Patienten (9 Frauen) unterzogen sich der Thermo-Pulsation (einmalige Sitzung), während 15 Patienten (8 Frauen) 3 Monate lang eine Lidrandmassage (1-mal täglich) nach Anweisung für 3 Monate durchführten.

Ergebnisse

Vor den beiden Behandlungsmethoden bestanden keine Unterschiede in oben genannten Parametern, ebenfalls waren Geschlecht und Alter normverteilt. Nach der Behandlung verbesserten sich zwar in beiden Gruppen die subjektiven als auch die objektiven Kriterien, allerdings im Thermo-Pulsation-Arm signifikant stärker. Insbesondere ist die eingeschränkte Compliance von 30 % im Lidrandmassagearm zu beachten. Sicherheitsparameter wie Visus und IOD blieben bei allen Patienten unauffällig.

Schlussfolgerungen

Eine einzige Sitzung der Thermo-Pulsation führte in ihrer Wirksamkeit und ihrem Sicherheitsprofil nach 3 Monaten im Vergleich zu einer 1‑mal täglichen Lidrandmassage zu signifikant besseren Ergebnissen. Zu beachten sind allerdings die hohen Kosten für die Patienten, da die zu applizierenden Aktivatoren als Einmalprodukte zu behandeln sind.
Multi-agent reinforcement learning for character control
Authors: Li Cheng , Fussell Levi , Komura Taku
Published: December 2021

Simultaneous control of multiple characters has been a research topic that has been extensively pursued for applications in computer games and computer animations, for applications such as crowd simulation, controlling two characters carrying objects or fighting with one another and controlling a team of characters playing collective sports. With the advance in deep learning and reinforcement learning, there is a growing interest in applying multi-agent reinforcement learning for intelligently controlling the characters to produce realistic movements. In this paper we will survey the state-of-the-art MARL techniques that are applicable for character control. We will then survey papers that make use of MARL for multi-character control and then discuss about the possible future directions of research.
Lack of residents due to COVID-19 pandemic. Can a mentor–mentee program during medical studies have a positive influence on the choice for specialist training in gynecology and obstetrics? A review of current literature and results of a national wide survey of medical students
Authors: Hertling Stefan
Published: December 2021

Objective

The COVID-19 pandemic restricting clinical practice and exacerbating the lack of medical staff. There is currently a lack of young residents who are deciding on further training in gynecology and obstetrics. Design: review and prospective, cross-sectional study. Setting: the aim of this study was to investigate if structured mentoring programs can counteract this deficiency. Population: medical students took part from Germany in the clinical phase.

Methods

An anonymous questionnaire was developed and distributed to students from January to October 2020. Epidemiological data, questions about mentoring experiences, necessity and their expected influence on career planning were collected and statistically evaluated. Main outcome measures: structured mentoring-programs can influence the choice of subject. In particular, men are still underrepresented. Research on the topic of mentoring during in the field of gynaecology and obstetrics is completely lacking.

Results

A representative number of 927 medical students took part in the survey. 22% (170/906) of the students had already participated in a mentoring program with a significantly higher proportion of men (69%; 117/170;p < 0.001). Of these, 94% (453/170) said this was helpful. 6% (55/906) wanted to pursue a career in gynecology and obstetrics. When asked about their appreciation for structured mentoring programs in gynecology and obstetrics, 95% (880/906) would participate and 94% agreed (871/906) that this could have an impact on their choice of specialist and career planning.

Conclusions

An active provision of mentoring programs and more content can be a way of counteracting the shortage of residents in gynecology and obstetrics.
Predicting black soldier fly larvae biomass and methionine accumulation using a kinetic model for batch cultivation and improving system performance using semi-batch cultivation
Authors: Miner Lydia Palma , Fernandez-Bayo Jesus , Putri Ferisca , Niemeier Deb , Bischel Heather , VanderGheynst Jean S.
Published: December 2021

Global demand for poultry and associated feed are projected to double over the next 30 years. Insect meal is a sustainable alternative to traditional feeds when produced on low-value high-volume agricultural byproducts. Black soldier fly (BSF) larvae (Hermetia illucens L.) are high in protein and contain methionine, an essential amino acid that is critical to poultry health. BSF larvae can be grown on many organic residues, however, larvae growth and quality vary based on feedstock and cultivation processes. Experiments were completed to monitor temporal changes in BSF larvae growth and composition using almond hulls as a growth substrate under batch and semi-batch processes and with varying substrate carbon to nitrogen ratio (C/N). A logistic kinetic growth model was developed to predict larval biomass and methionine accumulations during batch production. Estimated ranges of model parameters for larvae maximum specific growth rate and carrying capacity were 0.017–0.021 h−1 and 9.7–10.7 g larvae kg−1 hulls dry weight, respectively. Methionine content in larvae increased from 11.1 to 17.1 g kg−1 dry weight over a 30-day batch incubation period. Larvae-specific growth and yield increased by 168% and 268%, respectively, when cultivated in a semi-batch compared to a batch process. Increasing C/N ratio from 26 to 40 increased density of methionine content in larvae per unit feedstock by 25%. The findings demonstrate a logistic model can predict larvae biomass accumulation, harvest time can achieve specific methionine contents, and a semi-batch process is more favorable for larvae biomass accumulation compared to a batch process.
Collegial Learning and Digital Literacy Education in a Swedish Preschool
Authors: Forsling Karin
Published: December 2021

This article focuses on preschool teachers’ collegial learning in relation to children's use of digital learning tools in preschool. The aim of the study was to investigate how preschool teachers understand, change, and improve learning situations when digital tools are used, under the supervision of a film educator, a preschool colleague, and a researcher. The results show how five dedicated teachers, without a special interest in digital tools, started using tablets in preschool as a learning tool to achieve the goals in the curriculum regarding communication. The experiment model used in the study is based on design-oriented theories. The design-based experiment provided an opportunity for in-depth reflection among the teachers and a meeting place for collegial learning processes, which can in turn lead to preschool development.
Membrane lipids and maximum lifespan in clownfish
Authors: Almaida-Pagan Pedro F. , Lucas-Sanchez Alejandro , Martinez-Nicolas Antonio , Terzibasi Eva , de Lama Maria Angeles Rol , Cellerino Alessandro , Mendiola Pilar , de Costa Jorge
Published: December 2021

The longevity-homeoviscous adaptation (LHA) theory of ageing states that lipid composition of cell membranes is linked to metabolic rate and lifespan, which has been widely shown in mammals and birds but not sufficiently in fish. In this study, two species of the genus Amphiprion (Amphiprion percula and Amphiprion clarkii, with estimated maximum lifespan potentials [MLSP] of 30 and 9–16 years, respectively) and the damselfish Chromis viridis (estimated MLSP of 1–2 years) were chosen to test the LHA theory of ageing in a potential model of exceptional longevity. Brain, livers and samples of skeletal muscle were collected for lipid analyses and integral part in the computation of membrane peroxidation indexes (PIn) from phospholipid (PL) fractions and PL fatty acid composition. When only the two Amphiprion species were compared, results pointed to the existence of a negative correlation between membrane PIn value and maximum lifespan, well in line with the predictions from the LHA theory of ageing. Nevertheless, contradictory data were obtained when the two Amphiprion species were compared to the shorter-lived C. viridis. These results along with those obtained in previous studies on fish denote that the magnitude (and sometimes the direction) of the differences observed in membrane lipid composition and peroxidation index with MLSP cannot explain alone the diversity in longevity found among fishes.
Exploring the Cognitive Model of Social Anxiety in Autistic Young People—The Central Role of Bodily Symptoms
Authors: Wood H. , Rusbridge S. , Lei J. , Lomax C. , Elliston J. , Russell A.
Published: December 2021

We explored the role of negative performance beliefs and self-focused attention considered central to psychological models of social anxiety but not studied in autism. Firstly, we compared self- and observer ratings of performance on a social task for 71 young autistic people, 41 high and 30 low in social anxiety, finding a significant main effect of social anxiety but not rater. Subsequently, 76 autistic young people, 46 high and 30 low social anxiety completed measures of interoceptive sensibility and focus of attention following a social task. Only heightened interoceptive sensibility fully mediated the relationship between self-ratings of social performance and social anxiety. These findings suggest awareness of bodily sensations are critical to anxiety in social situations with implications for treatment.
Closing the Gap Between Theory and Practice: Conceptualisation of a School-Based Intervention to Improve the School Participation of Primary School Students on the Autism Spectrum and Their Typically Developing Peers
Authors: Hodges Amy , Cordier Reinie , Joosten Annette , Bourke-Taylor Helen
Published: December 2021

Limited interventions exist that support student’s school participation. This paper describes a theoretical model of school participation and the iterative process that led to the development of an intervention that aims to improve the school participation of students on the autism spectrum and their typically developing peers. Literature on autism, school participation and intervention research were integrated to develop a theoretical model. Focus groups, a Delphi study, online surveys, and reference group consultation helped to develop and refine the intervention. A novel school-based intervention was developed. The impetus to develop interventions with a strong theoretical rationale is discussed.
Transformation from calcium sulfate to calcium phosphate in biological environment
Authors: Chen Ying-Cen , Tuan Wei-Hsing , Lai Po-Liang
Published: December 2021

The formation of a nano-apatite surface layer is frequently considered a measure of bioactivity, especially for non-phosphate bioceramics. In the present study, strontium-doped calcium sulfate, (Ca,Sr)SO4, was used to verify the feasibility of this measure. The (Ca,Sr)SO4 specimen was prepared by mixing 10% SrSO4 by weight with 90% CaSO4·½H2O powder by weight. A solid solution of (Ca,7.6%Sr)SO4 was then produced by heating the powder mixture at 1100 °C for 1 h. The resulting (Ca,Sr)SO4 specimen was readily degradable in phosphate solution. A newly formed surface layer in the form of flakes was formed within one day of specimen immersion in phosphate solution. Structural and microstructure–compositional analyses indicated that the flakes were composed of octacalcium phosphate (OCP) crystals. An amorphous interface containing OCP nanocrystals was found between the newly formed surface layer and the remaining (Ca,Sr)SO4 specimen. The specimen was also implanted into a rat distal femur bone defect. In addition to new bone, fibrous tissue and inflammatory cells were found to interlace the (Ca,Sr)SO4 specimen. The present study indicated that a more comprehensive evaluation is needed to assess the bioactivity of non-phosphate bioceramics.
Direct monitoring of single-cell response to biomaterials by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: McIvor Mary Josephine , Sharma Preetam K. , Birt Catherine E. , McDowell Hayley , Wilson Shannon , McKillop Stephen , Acheson Jonathan G. , Boyd Adrian R. , Meenan Brian J.
Published: December 2021

There is continued focus on the development of new biomaterials and associated biological testing methods needed to reduce the time taken for their entry to clinical use. The application of Raman spectroscopy to the study of individual cells that have been in contact with biomaterials offers enhanced in vitro information in a potentially non-destructive testing regime. The work presented here reports the Raman spectral analysis of discreet U-2 OS bone cells after exposure to hydroxyapatite (HA) coated titanium (Ti) substrates in both the as-deposited and thermally annealed states. These data show that cells that were in contact with the bioactive HA surface for 7 days had spectral markers similar to those cultured on the Ti substrate control for the same period. However, the spectral features for those cells that were in contact with the annealed HA surface had indicators of significant differentiation at day 21 while cells on the as-deposited surface did not show these Raman changes until day 28. The cells adhered to pristine Ti control surface showed no spectral changes at any of the timepoints studied. The validity of these spectroscopic results has been confirmed using data from standard in vitro cell viability, adhesion, and proliferation assays over the same 28-day culture period. In this case, cell maturation was evidenced by the formation of natural bone apatite, which precipitated intracellularly for cells exposed to both types of HA-coated Ti at 21 and 28 days, respectively. The properties of the intracellular apatite were markedly different from that of the synthetic HA used to coat the Ti substrate with an average particle size of 230 nm, a crystalline-like shape and Ca/P ratio of 1.63 ± 0.5 as determined by SEM-EDX analysis. By comparison, the synthetic HA particles used as a control had an average size of 372 nm and were more-rounded in shape with a Ca/P ratio of 0.8 by XPS analysis and 1.28 by SEM-EDX analysis. This study shows that Raman spectroscopy can be employed to monitor single U-2 OS cell response to biomaterials that promote cell maturation towards de novo bone thereby offering a label-free in vitro testing method that allows for non-destructive analyses.
The Courtroom as an Arena of Ideological and Political Confrontation: The Chicago Eight Conspiracy Trial
Authors: Allo Awol
Published: December 2021

Normative theories of law conceive the courtroom as a geometrically delineated, politically neutral, and linguistically transparent space designed for a fair and orderly administration of justice. The trial, the most legalistic of all legal acts, is widely regarded as a site of truth and justice elevated above and beyond the expediency of ideology and politics. These conceptions are further underpinned by certain normative understandings of sovereignty, the subject, and politics where sovereignty is conceived as self-instituting and self-limiting; the subject is understood as an autonomous and rational being capable of self-consciousness and self-representation; and politics is posited as the exercise of reason in the public sphere. In this article, I argue that such a normative conceptualization of the criminal trial and the courtroom not only ignores structures of power and privilege that produce inequalities but also forecloses possibilities for transformative judicial praxis. Drawing on the 1969–1970 trial of eight radical activists accused of conspiring to incite a riot at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, the article argues for a performative re-conceptualization of sovereignty, the subject, and the law as indeterminate, unpredictable, and open-ended discursive formations. The article demonstrates how the accused, working with and against legal doctrines, norms, and discourses, rethought normative conceptions of sovereignty, law, and subjectivity as contingent power-knowledge constellations that are open, unpredictable, and un-closable.
Lie polynomials and a twistorial correspondence for amplitudes
Authors: Frost Hadleigh , Mason Lionel
Published: December 2021

We review Lie polynomials as a mathematical framework that underpins the structure of the so-called double copy relationship between gauge and gravity theories (and a network of other theories besides). We explain how Lie polynomials naturally arise in the geometry and cohomology of $$\mathcal {M}_{0,n}$$

M

0
,
n

, the moduli space of n points on the Riemann sphere up to Mobiüs transformation. We introduce a twistorial correspondence between the cotangent bundle $$T^*_D\mathcal {M}_{0,n}$$

T
D
∗

M

0
,
n

, the bundle of forms with logarithmic singularities on the divisor D as the twistor space, and $$\mathcal {K}_n$$

K
n

the space of momentum invariants of n massless particles subject to momentum conservation as the analogue of space–time. This gives a natural framework for Cachazo He and Yuan (CHY) and ambitwistor-string formulae for scattering amplitudes of gauge and gravity theories as being the corresponding Penrose transform. In particular, we show that it gives a natural correspondence between CHY half-integrands and scattering forms, certain $$n-3$$

n
-
3

-forms on $$\mathcal {K}_n$$

K
n

, introduced by Arkani-Hamed, Bai, He and Yan (ABHY). We also give a generalization and more invariant description of the associahedral $$n-3$$

n
-
3

-planes in $$\mathcal {K}_n$$

K
n

introduced by ABHY.
Resonant passive energy balancing of morphing helicopter blades with bend–twist coupling
Authors: Taghipour Javad , Zhang Jiaying , Shaw Alexander D. , Friswell Mike I. , Gu Huayuan , Wang Chen
Published: December 2021

With increasing demand for rotor blades in engineering applications, improving the performance of such structures using morphing blades has received considerable attention. Resonant passive energy balancing (RPEB) is a relatively new concept introduced to minimize the required actuation energy. This study investigates RPEB in morphing helicopter blades with lag–twist coupling. The structure of a rotating blade with a moving mass at the tip is considered under aerodynamic loading. To this end, a three-degree-of-freedom (3DOF) reduced-order model is used to analyse and understand the complicated nonlinear aeroelastic behaviour of the structure. This model includes the pitch angle and lagging of the blade, along with the motion of the moving mass. First, the 3DOF model is simplified to a single-degree-of-freedom model for the pitch angle dynamics of the blade to examine the effect of important parameters on the pitch response. The results demonstrate that the coefficient of lag–twist coupling and the direction of aerodynamic moment on the blade are two parameters that play important roles in controlling the pitch angle, particularly the phase. Then, neglecting the aerodynamic forces, the 3DOF system is studied to investigate the sensitivity of its dynamics to changes in the parameters of the system. The results of the structural analysis can be used to tune the parameters of the blade in order to use the resonant energy of the structure and to reduce the required actuation force. A sensitivity analysis is then performed on the dynamics of the 3DOF model in the presence of aerodynamic forces to investigate the controllability of the amplitude and phase of the pitch angle. The results show that the bend–twist coupling and the distance between the aerodynamic centre and the rotation centre (representing the direction and magnitude of aerodynamic moments) play significant roles in determining the pitch dynamics.
Neurobiological regulation of eating behavior: Evidence based on non-invasive brain stimulation
Authors: Ester Theresa , Kullmann Stephanie
Published: December 2021

The prefrontal cortex is appreciated as a key neurobiological player in human eating behavior. A special focus is herein dedicated to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), which is critically involved in executive function such as cognitive control over eating. Persons with obesity display hypoactivity in this brain area, which is linked to overconsumption and food craving. Contrary to that, higher activity in the DLPFC is associated with successful weight-loss and weight-maintenance. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neurostimulation tool used to enhance self-control and inhibitory control. The number of studies using tDCS to influence eating behavior rapidly increased in the last years. However, the effectiveness of tDCS is still unclear, as studies show mixed results and individual differences were shown to be an important factor in the effectiveness of non-invasive brain stimulation. Here, we describe the current state of research of human studies using tDCS to influence food intake, food craving, subjective feeling of hunger and body weight. Excitatory stimulation of the right DLPFC seems most promising to reduce food cravings to highly palatable food, while other studies provide evidence that stimulating the left DLPFC shows promising effects on weight loss and weight maintenance, especially in multisession approaches. Overall, the reported findings are heterogeneous pointing to large interindividual differences in tDCS responsiveness.
Life Cycle Assessment in mineral processing – a review of the role of flotation
Authors: Marmiroli Benedetta , Rigamonti Lucia , Brito-Parada Pablo R.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The aim of this literature review is to investigate the role of the beneficiation stage in the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of metals and minerals with a focus on the flotation process.

Methods

The systematic literature search included LCA studies comprising the beneficiation stage in their system boundaries and resulted in 29 studies that met the criteria requirements and were analysed. First, the system boundaries are investigated, along with the level of detail in the description of the sub-processes (e.g. flotation) and data granularity. Then, the life cycle inventories are scrutinised: data transparency and the relation between system granularity and data availability is commented. Of particular relevance, the way in which the functional unit is dealt with is examined. Finally, studies impact assessments are compared and discussed, and key parameters are highlighted.

Results and discussion

For system boundaries, beneficiation is generally embedded into the mining stage. Even when described on its own, important sub-processes (e.g. flotation) are not considered, except for eight cases analysed. Functional unit definition is hindered by the output of the system being an intermediate product. Indeed, most studies use a declared functional unit but fail to provide its relevant characteristics, which is essential for a correct interpretation of results and for comparisons. Most studies rely on secondary data, not always presented transparently, to describe beneficiation. Results on the role of beneficiation in the metal value chain environmental impacts are conflicting, partly because of its site dependency. Site-dependent parameters found to be determining are ore grade, energy mix, mining technique, concentrate grade and ore mineralogy.

Conclusions

The flotation process, and more generally the beneficiation stage, is typically overlooked in LCA studies despite its growing relevance. Beneficiation not being assessed as a standalone stage, detailed in its subprocess, the use of outdated and secondary data, along with a lack of transparency in the inventory and in the key parameters are all factors that affect the environmental assessment of the entire metal and mineral sector, and thus the LCA of many products.

Recommendation

Greater efforts should be allocated to considering the sub-processes in the beneficiation stage, particularly flotation. Information on the identified key parameters should be available to the practitioners and sensitivity analyses to investigate their influence are recommended. Hotspots specific to flotation have been identified and should be used to orient data gathering when focusing on this process. Five options of functional unit and their application are recommended.
Spatial pattern analysis of forest trees based on the vectorial mark
Authors: Xin Honglu , Jackson Toby , Cao Yujie , Zhang Huanyuan , Lin Yi , Shenkin Alexander
Published: December 2021

Analysis of spatial patterns to describe the spatial correlation between a tree location and marks (i.e., structural variables), can reveal stand history, population dynamics, competition and symbiosis. However, most studies of spatial patterns have concentrated on tree location and tree sizes rather than on crown asymmetry especially with direct analysis among marks characterizing facilitation and competition among of trees, and thus cannot reveal the cause of the distributions of tree locations and quantitative marks. To explore the spatial correlation among quantitative and vectorial marks and their implication on population dynamics, we extracted vertical and horizontal marks (tree height and crown projection area) characterizing tree size, and a vectorial mark (crown displacement vector characterizing the crown asymmetry) using an airborne laser scanning point cloud obtained from two forest stands in Oxfordshire, UK. Quantitatively and vectorially marked spatial patterns were developed, with corresponding null models established for a significance test. We analyzed eight types of univariate and bivariate spatial patterns, after first proposing four types. The accuracy of the pattern analysis based on an algorithm-segmented point cloud was compared with that of a truly segmented point cloud. The algorithm-segmented point cloud managed to detect 70–86% of patterns correctly. The eight types of spatial patterns analyzed the spatial distribution of trees, the spatial correlation between tree size and facilitated or competitive interactions of sycamore and other species. These four types of univariate patterns jointly showed that, at smaller scales, the trees tend to be clustered, and taller, with larger crowns due to the detected facilitations among trees in the study area. The four types of bivariate patterns found that at smaller scales there are taller trees and more facilitation among sycamore and other species, while crown size is mostly homogeneous across scales. These results indicate that interspecific facilitation and competition mainly affect tree height in the study area. This work further confirms the connection of tree size with individual facilitation and competition, revealing the potential spatial structure that previously was hard to detect.
Hsa-miR-3651 could serve as a novel predictor for in-breast recurrence via FRMD3
Authors: Zellinger Barbara , Bodenhofer Ulrich , Engländer Immanuela A. , Kronberger Cornelia , Grambozov Brane , Ruznic Elvis , Stana Markus , Karner Josef , Fastner Gerd , Sotlar Karl , Sedlmayer Felix , Zehentmayr Franz
Published: December 2021

Background

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs with pivotal regulatory functions in multiple cellular processes. Their significance as molecular predictors for breast cancer was demonstrated in the past 15 years. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of hsa-miR-3651 for predicting of local control (LC) in early breast cancer.

Results

By means of high-throughput technology, hsa-miR-3651 was found to be differentially expressed between patients who experienced local relapse compared to those without (N  =  23;p  =  0.0035). This result could be validated in an independent cohort of 87 patients using RT-qPCR (p  <  0.0005). In a second analysis step with a chip-based microarray containing 70,523 probes of potential target molecules, FERM domain protein 3 (FRMD3) was found to be the most down-regulated protein (N  =  21;p  =  0.0016). Computational analysis employing different prediction algorithms revealed FRMD3 as a likely downstream target of hsa-miR-3651 with an 8mer binding site between the two molecules. This could be validated in an independent patient set (N  =  20,p  =  0.134).

Conclusion

The current study revealed that hsa-miR-3651 is a predictor of LC in early breast cancer via its putative target protein FRMD3. Since microRNAs interfere in multiple pathways, the results of this hypothesis generating study may contribute to the development of tailored therapies for breast cancer in the future.
Aboriginal cultural educators teaching the teachers: mobilisng a collaborative cultural mentoring program to affect change
Authors: Burgess Cathie , Harwood Valerie
Published: December 2021

This paper discusses an Aboriginal cultural mentoring project for non-Aboriginal teachers that positions Aboriginal people front and centre as cultural and educational experts. In so doing it sets out to contribute to work in Australia that challenges ‘common’ understandings about mentoring in educational contexts where the expert is usually a western-educated non-Aboriginal teacher. In this project, non-Aboriginal teachers are supported in implementing culturally responsive curriculum and pedagogies into their classroom through building relationships with Aboriginal mentors and students. Analysis of thirteen pre and post surveys, four mentee interviews and one mentee focus group, illuminated the emergence of collaborative cultural mentoring processes, where teachers developed trusting, reciprocal and respectful relationships with Aboriginal people. We argue that a systematic, well-supported Aboriginal cultural mentoring program can be used to create and convert new knowledge into practice, and that this can have a positive impact on teachers’ understanding of teaching/learning processes thereby contributing to Aboriginal student engagement in their learning.
An improved weighted optimization approach for large-scale global optimization
Authors: Chen Minyang , Du Wei , Song Wenjiang , Liang Chen , Tang Yang
Published: December 2021

It is a great challenge for ordinary evolutionary algorithms (EAs) to tackle large-scale global optimization (LSGO) problems which involve over hundreds or thousands of decision variables. In this paper, we propose an improved weighted optimization approach (LSWOA) for helping solve LSGO problems. Thanks to the dimensionality reduction of weighted optimization, LSWOA can optimize transformed problems quickly and share the optimal weights with the population, thereby accelerating the overall convergence. First, we concentrate on the theoretical investigation of weighted optimization. A series of theoretical analyses are provided to illustrate the search behavior of weighted optimization, and the equivalent form of the transformed problem is presented to show the relationship between the original problem and the transformed one. Then the factors that affect problem transformation and how they take affect are figured out. Finally, based on our theoretical investigation, we modify the way of utilizing weighted optimization in LSGO. A weight-sharing strategy and a candidate solution inheriting strategy are designed, along with a better allocation of computational resources. These modifications help take full advantage of weighted optimization and save computational resources. The extensive experimental results on CEC’2010 and CEC’2013 verify the effectiveness and scalability of the proposed LSWOA.