bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversified calcimicrobes in dendrolites of the Zhangxia Formation, Miaolingian Series (Middle Cambrian) of the North China craton
Authors: Mei Ming-Xiang , Riaz Muhammad , Zhang Zhen-Wu , Meng Qing-Fen , Hu Yuan
Published: March 2021

As a type of non-laminated microbial carbonates, dendrolites are dominated by isolated dendritic clusters of calcimicrobes and are distinct from stromatolites and thrombolites. The dendrolites in the upper part of the Miaolingian Zhangxia Formation at Anjiazhuang section in Feicheng city of Shandong Province, China, provide an excellent example for further understanding of both growth pattern and forming mechanism of dendrolites. These dendrolites are featured by sedimentary fabrics and composition of calcified microbes as follows. (1) The strata of massive limestones, composed of dendrolites with thickness of more than one hundred meters, intergrade with thick-bedded to massive leiolites, formimg the upper part of a third-order depositional sequence that constitutes a forced regressive systems tract. (2) A centimeter-sized bush-like fabric (shrub) typically produced by calcified microbes is similar to the mesoclot in thrombolites but distinctive from clotted fabrics of thrombolites. This bush-like fabric is actually constituted by diversified calcified microbes like the modern shrub as a result of gliding mobility of filamentous cyanobacteria. Such forms traditionally include: the Epiphyton group (which actually has uncertain biological affinity), the Hedstroemia group which closely resembles modern rivulariacean cyanobacteria, and the possible calcified cyanobacteria of the Lithocodium–Bacinella group. (3) Significantly, dense micrite of leiolite is associated with sponge fossils and burrows, and is covered by microstromatolite. The Lithocodium–Bacinella group is a controversial group of interpreted calcified cyanobacteria in the Cambrian that has also been widely observed and described in the Mesozoic. Therefore, dendrolites with symbiosis of leiolites in the studied section provide an extraordinary example for further understanding of growing style of bush-like fabrics (shrubs) of the dendrolites dominated by cyanobacterial mats. Furthermore, the present research provides some useful thinking approaches for better understanding of the history of the Early Paleozoic skeletal reefs and the microbe–metazoan transitions of the Cambrian.
Intraoperative patellar maltracking and postoperative radiographic patellar malalignment were more frequent in cases of complete medial collateral ligament release in cruciate-retaining total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Noh Jung Ho , Kim Nam Yeop , Song Ki Ill
Published: March 2021

Background

Patellar maltracking after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can lead to significant patellofemoral complications such as anterior knee pain, increased component wear, and a higher risk of component loosening, patellar fracture, and instability. This study was to investigate the preoperative and operative variables that significantly affect patellar tracking after cruciate-retaining TKA.

Methods

We studied 142 knee joints in patients who had undergone TKA: the knees were dichotomized based on postoperative patellar tracking, which was evaluated on patellar skyline, axial-projection radiographs: group 1, normal patellar tracking (lateral tilt ≤ 10° and displacement ≤ 3 mm) and group 2, patellar maltracking (lateral tilt > 10° or displacement > 3 mm). The patients’ demographic data and clinical and radiographic measurements obtained before and after surgery were compared between the two groups.

Results

Preoperative lateral patellar displacement was greater (4.1 ± 2.6 mm vs. 6.0 ± 3.5 mm), as was the frequency of medial collateral ligament (MCL) release (3/67 vs. 24/75) in group 2 than in group 1 (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). The distal femur was cut in a greater degree of valgus in group 1 than in group 2. (6.3 ± 0.8° vs. 6.0 ± 0.8°) (p = 0.034).

Conclusions

Complete release of the MCL during surgery was associated with patellar maltracking (logistic regression: p = 0.005, odds ratio = 20.592). Surgeons should attend to patellar tracking during surgery in medially tight knees.

Level of evidence

Retrospective comparative study, level III.
Which orally administered antithrombotic agent is most effective for preventing venous thromboembolism after total knee arthroplasty? A propensity score-matching analysis
Authors: Jang Seonpyo , Shin Woo Cheol , Song Min Ku , Han Hyuk-Soo , Lee Myung Chul , Ro Du Hyun
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Even today, total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is associated with venous thromboembolism (VTE). The purpose of our study is to report the incidence of postoperative VTE and to compare the efficacy of commonly used orally administered antithrombotic agents.

Materials and methods

Seven hundred ad ninety-nine patients who underwent primary TKA were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were prescribed one of three antithrombotic agents: aspirin (n = 168), rivaroxaban (n = 117), or apixaban (n = 514). Before surgery, patient demographics and risk factors were matched via propensity scoring. After surgery, all three groups took the agent for 7 days and underwent ultrasonography to check for VTE.

Results

The overall incidence of postoperative VTE was 15.4% (123/799). Only one patient developed symptomatic VTE. Female sex and staged bilateral TKA were risk factors for postoperative VTE. The postoperative VTE rates in the aspirin, rivaroxaban, and apixaban groups were 16.2%, 6.0%, and 17.1%, respectively, significantly lower in the rivaroxaban group (p <  0.02). The majority of VTEs in all three groups were calf-vein thromboses.

Conclusions

All agents showed enough efficacy as antithrombotic agents. Considering that aspirin is inexpensive, aspirin is a cost-effective option for preventing postoperative VTE.
Evaluating lubiprostone for effective bowel preparation before colonoscopy
Authors: Hamada Yasser , Emam Ibrahim , Maher Rabab , El-Garem Hassan
Published: March 2021

Background

Colon preparation is a fundamental step for performing a successful colonoscopy. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of administering lubiprostone (LB) added to a single dose of oral polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution in achieving satisfactory colon cleanliness and decreasing the side effects.

Results

One-hundred percent of the control group patients reported that the experienced taste was worse than expected, while in the intervention group half of the patients (50%) said that the taste was natural and 48% experienced taste worse than expected (p<0.0001). Regarding Boston bowel preparation scale (BBPS), there was a significant difference in the overall Boston scale (p=0.02) with more efficacy in the intervention group as 66% of patients in the intervention group had good bowel preparation (5–7) and 24% excellent preparation (8–9). On the other hand, the overall Boston scale in the control group showed that 54% of patients were between 5 and 7, and only 16% of patients had overall Boston scale 8–9. In terms of the side effects of the preparation in both arms, the majority of cases in the intervention arm did not complain of any side effects (78%), while the majority of the complaints were vomiting in 16% of the intervention cases.

Conclusion

The current evidence suggested that adding LB to the colon preparation significantly improved the tolerability and efficacy.
Scrutinizing pharmacological efficiency for Acacia auriculiformis by experimental and computational approach
Authors: Nur Shafinaz , Hossain Md. Mohotasin , Islam Nadia , Tareq Abu Montakim , Hanif Nujhat Binte , Khatun Riniara , Sayeed Mohammed Abu
Published: March 2021

Background

The study sought to investigate the biological efficacy of methanol leave extract of Acacia auriculiformis (MEAA) via in vitro, in vivo, in silico approaches. The in vitro cytotoxicity was evaluated through brine shrimp lethality assay, and anti-inflammatory activity was determined by membrane stabilisation and protein denaturation methods (BSA and egg albumin). The in vivo antipyretic activity was examined via Brewer’s yeast induced pyrexia model.

Results

A. auriculiformis extract unveiled moderate cytotoxicity with significant anti-inflammatory efficacy (p < 0.001) compared to standard drug. This extract also exhibited dose-dependent time of paralysis and death for the worm (p < 0.001) in the anthelmintic test which was directly proportional to employed concentrations. A notable percentage of clot lysis effect (36.42 ± 1.95%, p < 0.001) was also observed for MEAA in human blood compared to control. However, this extract significantly (p < 0.05) reduced fever in a dose-dependent manner during the antipyretic experiment. Besides, in computer-aided investigations, two compounds (2,4-ditert-butylphenol and 3-hydroxy-β-damascone) revealed the best binding interaction with six proteins for cytotoxicity, inflammation, helminthic, thrombolytic and pyretic effect. Moreover, these two compounds satisfy Lipinski’s ‘Rule of Five’ and revealed drug-likeness profiles in the toxicological study.

Conclusions

These findings disclosed that methanol leaves extract of A. auriculiformis might be a potent source for anti-inflammatory, anti-helminthic, thrombolytic and antipyretic agents.
METHODS FOR ENSURING THE STABILITY OF THE ELECTRONIC COMPONENT BASE TO SINGLE EVENTS BY REDUNDANCY
Authors: Kozyukov Aleksandr , Zolnikov Vladimir , Evdokimova Svetlana , Kvasov Oleg , Yakovlev Konstantin , Platonov Aleksey
Published: March 2021

The article discusses algorithmic methods for ensuring the fault tolerance of the electronic component base (ECB). The protection methods used in regular and irregular structures are described. The essence of Hamming code algorithms, composite code, error correction and detection codes is revealed. The advantages and disadvantages of using arithmetic residual code, the method of redundancy at the level of program code fragments, are shown.
DEVELOPMENT OF AN ALGORITHM AND MODEL OF INFORMATION SYSTEM FUNCTIONING FOR A DENTAL POLYCLINIC PAID DEPARTMENT
Authors: Novikova Tatyana , Bodin Andrey , Evdokimova Svetlana
Published: March 2021

Dentistry is an area of medical services that almost the entire population turns to for help. As a result, there is a huge demand for dental services, which leads to an increase in the number of commercial dental clinics. However, public dental clinics also have paid departments, which are no less in demand than commercial dental clinics. And if the staff and equipment paid offices are provided no worse than similar commercial structures, but the provision of specialized software leaves much to be desired. Therefore, the development of the algorithm and model of the functioning of the information system for the paid department of the stomatological polyclinic is relevant. The proposed algorithm and model formed the basis for the developed software of the information system for the paid department of the city dental clinic.
METHODOLOGY FOR ANALYTICAL MONITORING OF ABNORMAL USER BEHAVIOR IN A DISTRIBUTED INFORMATION SYSTEM OF CRITICAL APPLICATION
Authors: Suhanov Valeriy , Lankin Oleg
Published: March 2021

The article develops methods of analytical monitoring of abnormal user behavior in a distributed information system of critical application, which is based on the use of the method of fuzzy matrix incidents. The use of matrix incidents allows you to identify atypical or inappropriate user behavior in work sessions. To illustrate the practical application of the developed methodology, an example of identifying one of the classes of user abuse is presented and the effectiveness of the methodology for analytical monitoring of abnormal user behavior in a distributed information system of critical application is evaluated.
A comprehensive teacher strategy for successful online learning process
Authors: Lestari Rizqi , Astuti Budi , Bhakti Caraka Putra
Published: March 2021

Online learning is one of education methods that uses internet access and technological devices as a medium of communication between teachers and students. The teacher can use online learning during a pandemic that requires students and teachers to do physical distancing or during the industrial revolution 4.0 that implements technology in various fields of life. Online learning has several advantages and disadvantages, especially concerning the student conditions and learning effectiveness. This research was a literature review of the teacher’s strategy to achieve successful online learning. Teachers need to develop strategies for successful online learning. Teachers can use audio-visual show to attract students' interests, not give too many assignments, and provide contextual tasks that are relevant to students’ daily life. Guidance and counseling teachers can carry out preventive services in collaboration with school principals and teachers to collect data of students who do not have access to technology devices. The teacher also could conduct online group discussions to increase students’ interaction and reduce boredom learning. Furthermore, the teacher could implement curative services through online counseling services to overcome problems in online learning.
We might need a little anxiety: A finding of the students’ problem-solving on fraction operation
Authors: Purwasih Yuli , Istihapsari Vita , Istiandaru Afit
Published: March 2021

One of the factors affecting the students’ mathematical problem-solving ability is the mathematics anxiety. It was commonly believed that the higher anxiety a student feels, the lower performance the student does. This research aims to describe the students’ problem-solving performance on fraction operation within three levels of mathematics anxiety – the high, the moderate, and the low anxiety. In this research, we selected six subjects by administering a questionnaire. The subjects – representing each of the anxiety levels – engaged in a problem-solving test on fraction operation and then being interviewed about their problem-solving process based on Polya framework. After a number of triangulations and discussions, we found that the students with high anxiety tended to ruin their problem-solving process due to somatic symptoms. We also found that the students with moderate anxiety developed a good care such that the process going well. Interestingly, the students with low anxiety did not carefully solve the problems and made some mistakes in calculation. A simple question might be addressed for future research. Does anxiety sometimes develop a good alert that makes the student careful about their problem-solving steps?
Reflection of Down Syndrome Children on Cartoons: Cases of ‘My Brother Ozi’ and ‘Punky’
Authors: Dağlı-Gökbulut Özlem , Gökbulut Burak , Yeniasır Mustafa
Published: March 2021

In several shows prepared for children and adults in the media, the representation of “individuals with special needs” can ensure that other members of the society empathize with disability and the characteristics of disabled people, and make it easier that prejudices are replaced by social acceptance through gaining information. Finding a place frequently used in children’s literature, children’s reality satisfies the curiosity and experience-gaining demands of children about the cases they encounter for the first time using various examples, and helps them internalize the information and experience they gain. Children’s shows and cartoons have an effective power in influencing the viewpoint of children as target group for disabled people within the framework of “children’s reality” by means of the representation of children with special needs who are socially disadvantaged. In this context, the purpose of this study is to evaluate and examine in terms of various factors the social representation style of main characters with Down Syndrome represented in “My Brother Ozi” and “Punky” cartoons broadcasted on local children television channels and internet sites where cartoons for children can be found. 51 episodes of both cartoons (26 and 25) were viewed in the framework of the study and findings were analyzed using “document analysis” method which is a qualitative research method.
Modal and wavelength conversions in plasmonic nanowires
Authors: Agreda Adrian , Sharma Deepak K. , Colas des Francs Gérard , Kumar G. V. Pavan , Bouhelier Alexandre
Published: March 2021

We show that plasmonic nanowire-nanoparticle systems can perform nonlinear wavelength and modal conversions and potentially serve as building blocks for signal multiplexing and novel trafficking modalities. When a surface plasmon excited by a pulsed laser beam propagates in a nanowire, it generates a localized broadband nonlinear continuum at the nanowire surface as well as at active locations defined by sites where nanoparticles are absorbed (enhancement sites). The local response may couple to new sets of propagating modes enabling a complex routing of optical signals through modal and spectral conversions. Different aspects influencing the optical signal conversions are presented, including the parameters defining the local formation of the continuum and the subsequent modal routing in the nanowire.
Development of a deep-ultraviolet pulse laser source operating at 234 nm for direct cooling of Al+ ion clocks
Authors: Wu Haoyu , Zhang Zhaiqiong , Chen Si , Sun Kexiong , Sun Jinghua , Reid Derryck T. , Lu Zehuang , Zhang Jie
Published: March 2021

We report on the development of a 250-MHz 234 nm deep-ultraviolet pulse source based on a flexible wavelength-conversion scheme. The scheme is based on a frequency-doubled optical parametric oscillator (FD-OPO) together with a cascaded frequency conversion process. We use a χ(2) nonlinear envelope equation to guide the design of an intra-cavity OPO crystal, demonstrating a flexible broadband tunable feature and providing as high as watt-level of a frequency-doubled signal output centered at 850 nm, which is served as an input wave for the cascaded frequency conversion process. As much as 3.0 mW of an average power at 234 nm is obtained, with an rms power stability of better than 1% over 20 minutes. This deep-ultraviolet pulse laser source can be used for many applications in quantum optics and for direct laser cooling of Al+ ion clocks.
A Short Overview of Curcuma aeruginosa with Curative Potentials Against COVID-19
Authors: Paramita Swandari , Ismail Sjarif , Moerad Emil Bachtiar , Marliana Eva
Published: March 2021

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease) is an infectious disease of the respiratory tract caused by SARS-CoV-2.
Nature has provided a great source of antiviral compounds, from which innovative products for the
treatment of COVID-19 can be produced. One of the medicinal plants that can be developed for the
treatment of COVID-19 is Curcuma aeruginosa Roxb. Previous studies have found tracheospasmolytic
and anti-inflammatory activity of this indigenous Curcuma species. There are 10 chemical compounds
from Curcuma aeruginosa that have been proven against COVID-19, namely 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol),
α-terpineol, β-caryophyllene, β-eudesmol, β-pinene, β-sitosterol, curcumenol, palmitic acid, succinic
acid and zingiberene. Further research is needed for C. aeruginosa to become a new antiviral drug for
the treatment of COVID-19.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities of Teucrium polium Leaf Extract and its Phenolic and Flavonoids Content
Authors: Qabaha Khaled , Hijawi Thameen , Mahamid Abdallah , Mansour Haneen , Naeem Ahmad , Abbadi Jehad , Al-Rimawi Fuad
Published: March 2021

Teucrium polium leaf is one of the folkloric medicinal plants used traditionally to treat many diseases in the Palestinian community. It has antibacterial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory consequences. Present study aims the evaluating the in vitro inhibitory effect of Teucrium polium leaf extracts on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) using polymorphonuclear cells (PMNCs), in addition to determine its antioxidant and total phenolic and flavonoids contents. Polymorphonuclear cells were withdrawn from whole blood according to Histopaque (Ficol-1077) method. Blood cells were cultured in an enriched Roswell Park Memorial Institute (RBMI) medium. The levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) were determined after 24 h using LPS stimulation. Total phenolic contents, flavonoids contents and antioxidant activity were measured using spectrophotometric method. The TNF-α concentrations were compared using paired-samples t test. The leaf extracts of Teucrium polium revealed significant reduction in terms of TNF-α levels. The extract contained high phenolic and flavonoids contents and its antioxidant activities were remarkable. The reduced values in the TNF-α levels as affected by Teucrium polium leaf extracts indicate its effect in anti-inflammation. The plant is rich with polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids and has strong antioxidant activity. The observed anti-inflammatory effect of the extracts under study may be discussed as the influence of the significant presence of the phenolic compounds and flavonoids.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Spectroscopic and Antimicrobial Properties of
Ruthenium Complexes of Vinyl Imidazole and 4-Ethylaminomethyl Pyridine Ligands
Authors: Kalita Rinki Moni , Baruah Rahul Sarma , Medhi Chitrani
Published: March 2021

Ruthenium complexes of vinylimidazole (VIMD) and 4-ethylaminomethyl pyridine (EMP) ligands
were synthesized and characterized by XRD and spectroscopic methods. The binding of these Ru(IIII)
complexes with calf thymus-DNA has been studied by UV-visible spectroscopic and electrochemical
studies. A prominent increase in the intensity of fluorescence spectra of these complexes with CT-DNA
was observed and a distinct UV-visible spectral shift in presence of CT-DNA is probably due to an
interaction of these complexes with CT-DNA. The evidence of DNA binding has been found from the
change in the intensity of fluorescence and UV visible spectra. Also, the electron transfer ability of
these complexes is very important in order to rationalize their activity towards the biological system
therefore, we have studied the electrochemical studies of these complexes by using cyclic voltammetry.
From this study, it is possible to draw some ideas on electrochemical potentials of the complexes
relevant to biological reduction possibly Ru(III)/Ru(II). Both complexes were also tested for
antimicrobial activity against bacterial strain and responses well as antimicrobial agent.
Effect of Ce3+ Co-doping on GdPO4:Tb3+ Nanoparticles:
Photoluminescence and Energy Transfer Studies
Authors: Yaiphaba N.
Published: March 2021

Low temperature synthesis of Tb3+-doped GdPO4 nanoparticles sensitized with Ce3+ (Ce3+ = 0, 3, 5, 7
and 10 at.%) have been reported. Ethylene glycol was used as capping agent as well as reaction
medium at 160 ºC. The as-prepared particles crystallized in a monoclinic structure with an average
crystallite size of 25-46 nm. From the photoluminescence study, enhanced emission of Tb3+ with
co-doping of Ce3+ was attributed to efficient energy transfer from the sensitizer to activator. The
luminescence emission intensity increases upto 5 at.% of Ce3+ and then decreases. Less efficient energy
transfer from sensitizer to the activator with increasing concentration of sensitizer may be attributed to
critical concentration of Ce3+ with the host or dipole-quadrupole interaction amongst the Ce3+ ions.
Moreover, presence of -OH group in the samples will make them a potential target for biological
labeling and optical devices.
Endoscopic Management as a Viable Therapy for Pancreaticopleural and Pancreaticopericardial Fistulas
Authors: Chan Sandy , Petersile Matthew , Churrango Gustavo , Zivny Jaroslav
Published: March 2021

Pancreatic fistulas are rare complications of chronic pancreatitis, typically caused when disruption of the pancreatic duct causes leakage of pancreatic fluid that erodes through neighboring organs and structures. Pancreatic fistulas to the pericardium and pleural spaces are extremely rare, and cases of multiple fistulas tracking from the pancreas have not been reported before. Management of these fluid collections is challenging with no consensus described in the current literature. We report a case of a patient with concurrent pancreaticopericardial and pancreaticopleural fistulas who improved with endoscopic management.
Effect of Copper Content Addition to Dental Amalgam Properties
Authors: Kadhim Mohammed O. , Latif Wisam A. , Jabbar Fayq Hsan , Nassir Sura T.
Published: March 2021

A set of high-copper amalgam alloys have been prepared based on the change in the ratio of copper to silver using elemental components of high purity 99.9%. The amalgamation processes were done by mixing alloy powders with mercury at a fixed ratio. Structural properties were studied using X-ray diffraction and Optical Microscopy. Also, microhardness, and compressive strength were used to study some other important mechanical properties. The prepared amalgams were compared with well-known commercial amalgams; ANA 2000 and Standalloy F. The results of X-ray diffraction showed several prime phases in alloys and amalgams whose proportions and distribution depended on the copper content in the alloy. The results of mechanical test measurements showed a linear increase in the mechanical properties with increasing copper content in the amalgams. The results were similar to the measured values of the commercial amalgam.
XRD and Microscopic Images for Synthesis Graphite Nanoparticles by Oxidation Method
Authors: Abdulrazzak Firas H. , Jimaa Rawnaq B. , Radhi Israa M. , Himdan Takialdin A.
Published: March 2021

Graphite nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using mixture of H2O2/NH4OH with three steps of oxidation. The process of oxidations were analysis by XRD and optics microscopic images which shows clear change in particle size of graphite after every steps of oxidation. The method depend on treatments the graphite with H2O2 in two steps than complete the last steps by reacting with H2O2/NH4OH with equal quantities. The process did not reduces the several sheets for graphite but dispersion the aggregates of multi-sheets carbon when removed the Van Der Waals forces through the oxidation process.
Organisationale Technokulturen
Authors: Schaupp Simon
Published: March 2021

Der Artikel untersucht organisationskulturelle Praktiken der Technikkritik im Kontext der „Industrie 4.0“. Empirische Grundlage ist die ethnographische Untersuchung der Aneignung algorithmischer Arbeitssteuerung durch Produktionsbeschäftigte in zwei Industrieunternehmen. Als Analyserahmen für die geteilten kulturellen Bezüge der Beschäftigten auf die digitalen Technologien wird der Begriff der organisationalen Technokulturen vorgeschlagen. Dabei können offizielle Technokulturen kontrastiert werden mit Technokulturen der Kritik. Während erstere eine Techniknutzung entsprechend den Organisationszielen propagieren, grenzen sich letztere von diesen ab und stellen stattdessen den Eigensinn der Akteure ins Zentrum. Inwiefern sich diese Technokulturen manifestieren, ist stark kontextabhängig. In Situationen, in denen das Management der untersuchten Unternehmen nicht anwesend war, manifestierte sich die Kritik der Beschäftigten in expliziten und vehementen Anklagen digitaler Würdeverletzungen. Aber auch im Arbeitsalltag kam es zu kritischen Aneignungspraktiken. Diese nahmen vor allem die weitgehend gefahrlose Form des subversiven Humors an. Entgegen einer Position, die Beschäftigte als passive Objekte oder als ‚Komplizen‘ digitaler Kontrollregime versteht, kann hier gezeigt werden, dass die Beschäftigten spezifische interpretative Kompetenzen entwickeln, um Freiheitsräume auszumachen und Kritik zu üben.
Multifunctional graphene nanofiller in flame retarded polybutadiene/chloroprene/carbon black composites
Authors: Battig Alexander , Fadul Naïssa Abdou-Rahaman , Frasca Daniele , Schulze Dietmar , Schartel Bernhard
Published: March 2021

To curtail flammability risks and improve material properties, flame retardants (FRs) and fillers are mixed into rubbers. High loadings of aluminum trihydroxide (ATH) and carbon black (CB) are the most used FRs and reinforcing additive, respectively, in rubbers. To reduce loading without losing mechanical properties, partial substitution of ATH as well as CB by low amounts of multilayer graphene (MLG) nanoparticles is investigated. The high aspect ratio MLG is made of ten graphene sheets. In polybutadiene/chloroprene (BR/CR) nanocomposites 3 phr MLG replaced 15 phr CB and/or 3 phr ATH. Material and mechanical properties as well as fire behavior of the nanocomposites are compared to BR/CR with 20 phr CB both with and without 50 phr ATH. MLG appears as a promising nanofiller to improve the functional properties: replacement of CB improved rheological, curing, and mechanical properties; substitution of ATH improved nanocomposite properties without affecting flame retardancy.
Data Protection and Data Commerce: Friends or Foes?
Authors: Durovic Mateja , Montanaro Marco
Published: March 2021

This paper explores the relation between the European rules on data protection and the commercialization of data. After contextualising the ongoing data revolution, it is argued that the practice of commercializing data may raise problematic issues under data protection law in two fundamental respects. First, it is often unclear whether data protection law should apply to begin with (‘the “if” problem’). Secondly, when and if data protection law applies, it is frequently hard to determine how it should apply (‘the “how” problem’). As we will observe, both the irreducibly dynamic nature of data and the conceptual blurriness of our legal discourse risk setting data protection law and trade in data on a baleful collision course.
Unilateral Modification of Long Term Contracts: American Change of Terms Clauses and Italian Ius Variandi from a ‘Relational’ Point of View
Authors: Caldarelli Gioia
Published: March 2021

This article analyses the compromise required between certainty and flexibility in long-term contracts, which would appear to be intrinsically linked to the adoption of adjustment tools. The allocation of rights and risks at the beginning of a contract may include the enforceability of clauses which empowers one party to unilaterally amend the original terms of the contract. On the one hand, a right granted by a change of terms clause, if properly exercised, may allow both parties to obtain the most from a long-term contract. On the other, it is essential to provide limitations so as to avoid the result that this contractual dexterity gives an unfair advantage to one party to the detriment of the weaker party.
Chinese maintenance and shift among Chinese migrant youth in Prato (Italy) and its connectedness with new formations of Chinese identity
Authors: Paciocco Adua Elizabeth
Published: March 2021

In view of theory sustaining that there is a nexus between linguistic repertoire, language and social identity, and that habitual language choice is not haphazard, this study explores the habitual use of Chinese – hence Chinese language maintenance (CHLM) – among multilingual Chinese migrant youth in Prato (Italy) to understand the social meaning embedded in it. The youth are multilingual; they speak Chinese and Italian. They exhibit CHLM with parents, as parents are not competent speakers of Italian. Some of the youth who are speakers of Italian, speak Chinese with peers, hence exhibiting CHLM within their generational cohort; while others do not, hence exhibiting Chinese language shift (CHLS). Oral data in which the youth self-present, report on others with whom they share social space, and talk about CHLM indicate that youth who speak Chinese with peers are not integrated into mainstream society; conversely, youth who are integrated shift to speaking Italian with peers. The analysis evidences that the youth’s integration is influenced by their social identity formation and other variables; such as their migration history, Chinese demographics in Prato and language ideology. Further, this study reveals that the youth are characterised by heterogeneity and that it is hierarchically ordered, heterogeneity and hierarchical ordering being indexed by the youth’s CHLM/CHLS and their alignment/disalignment with others that feature in their social space. This finding evidences that different enactments of Chinese identity are developing among Chinese migrant youth in Prato, thus de-essentialising Chinese identity. This study is wide reaching since it contributes to research on CHLM, the social identity formation of Chinese migrant youth populations, as well as new forms of Chinese identity emerging outside of the PRC. Data was analysed using the talk-in-interaction method of narrative analysis that studies oral narratives in which tellers seek to make sense of their human experience.
Sophisticated humor against COVID-19: the Polish case
Authors: Chłopicki Władysław , Brzozowska Dorota
Published: March 2021

The analysis undertaken in the article focuses on a group of memes selected from the database which drew on culture-specific references. Specifically, they embrace the memories of socialist times and call on references to comic films and easily recognized characters in order to bring out the re-discovered absurdity of the current COVID-19 situation. This material seems ideal to revisit Raskin’s early notion of sophistication, which was broadly argued to derive from intertextuality as well complexity of references that function as sources of humor. In all the examples discussed we can observe the intertextual and metatextual elements, multiple levels and shifts in points of view and attitudes as well as the mutual relations of verbal to visual within the meme cycles. In order to identify specific mechanisms of sophisticated humor, we attempt to identify the visual or verbal triggers of overlap of the two worlds in question, and discuss comic mechanisms of sophistication, including attributions of desire, belief and intention (purpose) to characters or the narrator as commentators on events or situations.
Techno-economic approach towards reactive power planning ensuring system security on energy transmission network
Authors: Karmakar Nihar , Bhattacharyya Biplab
Published: March 2021

This research work proposes a planning strategy pertaining to the techno-economic operation of Indian power systems. The proposed strategy focused on the reactive power (VAr) planning (RPP) subject to the system operating cost minimization ensuring system security. To mitigate the RPP issue, unique meta-heuristic hybridized techniques are adopted to size the optimal parameter settings such as alternator’s reactive power, tap settings of transformers etc. instigated by power flow analysis satisfying all equality and inequality constraints. The controlling variables are optimally determined to solve this non-linear RPP problem. The bottleneck for the installation of static VAr compensators at weak buses is also wiped out by different analytical techniques viz. loss sensitivity, power flow and modal analysis. Two different inter-regional transmission networks prevailing in India are considered to measure the adaptability, efficacy and efficiency of the proposed approach. The results obtained by applying the proposed approach have confirmed that network loss-minimization procedures produce an acceptable solution and reduce the operating cost which is especially important in RPP. The responses of bench mark functions and statistical analysis of the outcomes from both systems allow us to assess the overall efficiency and efficacy of the proposed techno-economic planning approach.
L
1-solutions of the initial value problems for implicit differential equations with Hadamard fractional derivative
Authors: Telli Benoumran , Souid Mohammed Said
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we study the existence of integrable solutions for initial value problems for fractional
order implicit differential equations with Hadamard fractional derivative. Our results are based on
Schauder’s fixed point theorem and the Banach contraction principle fixed point theorem.
Text-linguistic analysis of performed language: revisiting and re-modeling Koch and Oesterreicher
Authors: Werner Valentin
Published: March 2021

The present contribution starts from the general observations (i) that the study of text varieties has commonly emphasized the mode (speech vs. writing) as an essential variable and (ii) that linguistic analyses increasingly consider performed language (i.e., fictional scripted material as represented in telecinematic language and lyrics, for instance) as an object worth studying in its own right. It is recognized (i) that assessing performed language in terms of the traditional spoken-written dichotomy fails due to a number of inherent properties of relevant text varieties and their circumstances of production and reception, and (ii) that schemes applied within conventional (bottom-up) register perspectives may not be fully adequate for a text-linguistic approach toward performed language either. Koch and Oesterreicher’s communicative model (KOM), which takes account of contextual factors as well as of specific linguistic strategies and establishes a continuum between the language of distance and the language of immediacy, as well as three attempts at modifying KOM are introduced. It is argued that both KOM (as a top-down model) and its modifications have weaknesses when dealing with performed text varieties. An enhanced communicative model, including the dimensions synchronicity and authenticity, is sketched out, which could serve both as a starting point and complement for empirical investigations of textual variation whenever performed language is included.
Induced homomorphism: Kirchhoff’s law in photonics
Authors: Sun Shuai , Miscuglio Mario , Ma Xiaoxuan , Ma Zhizhen , Shen Chen , Kayraklioglu Engin , Anderson Jeffery , El Ghazawi Tarek , Sorger Volker J.
Published: March 2021

When solving, modeling or reasoning about complex problems, it is usually convenient to use the knowledge of a parallel physical system for representing it. This is the case of lumped-circuit abstraction, which can be used for representing mechanical and acoustic systems, thermal and heat-diffusion problems and in general partial differential equations. Integrated photonic platforms hold the prospective to perform signal processing and analog computing inherently, by mapping into hardware specific operations which relies on the wave-nature of their signals, without trusting on logic gates and digital states like electronics. Here, we argue that in absence of a straightforward parallelism a homomorphism can be induced. We introduce a photonic platform capable of mimicking Kirchhoff’s law in photonics and used as node of a finite difference mesh for solving partial differential equation using monochromatic light in the telecommunication wavelength. Our approach experimentally demonstrates an arbitrary set of boundary conditions, generating a one-shot discrete solution of a Laplace partial differential equation, with an accuracy above 95% with respect to commercial solvers. Our photonic engine can provide a route to achieve chip-scale, fast (10 s of ps), and integrable reprogrammable accelerators for the next generation hybrid high-performance computing.

A photonic integrated platform which can mimic Kirchhoff’s law in photonics is used for approximately solve partial differential equations noniteratively using light, with high throughput and low-energy levels.
Continuous synthesis of gold nanoparticles in micro- and millifluidic systems
Authors: Huang He , du Toit Hendrik , Panariello Luca , Mazzei Luca , Gavriilidis Asterios
Published: March 2021

Gold nanomaterials have diverse applications ranging from healthcare and nanomedicine to analytical sciences and catalysis. Microfluidic and millifluidic reactors offer multiple advantages for their synthesis and manufacturing, including controlled or fast mixing, accurate reaction time control and excellent heat transfer. These advantages are demonstrated by reviewing gold nanoparticle synthesis strategies in flow devices. However, there are still challenges to be resolved, such as reactor fouling, particularly if robust manufacturing processes are to be developed to achieve the desired targets in terms of nanoparticle size, size distribution, surface properties, process throughput and robustness. Solutions to these challenges are more effective through a coordinated approach from chemists, engineers and physicists, which has at its core a qualitative and quantitative understanding of the synthesis processes and reactor operation. This is important as nanoparticle synthesis is complex, encompassing multiple phenomena interacting with each other, often taking place at short timescales. The proposed methodology for the development of reactors and processes is generic and contains various interconnected considerations. It aims to be a starting point towards rigorous design procedures for the robust and reproducible continuous flow synthesis of gold nanoparticles.

Graphical Abstract:
Preparation of a carrier free 124Sb tracer produced in the Sn (p, n) reaction
Authors: Miyazawa Naoki , Uesugi Masaki , Yokoyama Akihiko
Published: March 2021

A carrier-free 124Sb tracer was prepared for determining radioactive 125Sb in highly contaminated and radioactive soil like one taken near the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. The excitation function for the 124Sb production was measured and compared to previous works to identify the optimum proton energy for the 124Sn (p, n) reaction by a stack method. The maximum production of 124Sb in the reaction was found at an incident proton beam energy of 8–9 MeV. Except for 124Sb, the reaction produced short-lived by-products and practically no 125Sb. Antimony was isolated from tin matrix by dissolving the irradiated target and extracting to isoamyl acetate. Then the carrier-free 124Sb tracer solution was purified by passing it through an anion exchange resin column. The radioactivity of 124Sb was recovered to more than 50% of the production, and provided successfully as a tracer solution free from tin due to the examined chemical procedure.
Can optical fiber compete with profile analysis tensiometry in critical micelle concentration measurement?
Authors: Hajirasouliha Farzaneh , Yang Hua , Wu Qiang , Zabiegaj Dominika
Published: March 2021

Critical micelle concentration (CMC) is one of the important nominal characteristics of the surfactants which can be measured using various methods. In this study, to detect the CMC of two ionic surfactants, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), two methods were utilized: (a) optical fiber and (b) drop profile analysis tensiometry (PAT) techniques. The spectrum width center and surface tension of the solutions at different concentrations of the surfactant were measured. The preliminary outcomes showed a compliance between optical fiber method and PAT technique. However, there were differences in the behavior of two surfactants in optical fiber measurement. In this method, when the solid surface of fiber is put in the system, the interactions between surfactant molecules and the fiber surface must be carefully considered.
Modifying an Implant: A Mini-review of Dental Implant Biomaterials
Authors: Semisch-Dieter Oliver K. , Choi Andy H. , Ben-Nissan Besim , Stewart Martin P.
Published: March 2021

Dental implants have been used as far back as 2000BC, and since then have developed into highly sophisticated solutions for tooth replacement. It is becoming increasingly important for the materials used in dental implants to exhibit and maintain favorable long-term mechanical, biological and more recently, aesthetic properties. This review aims to assess the biomaterials used in modern dental implants, introducing their properties, and concentrating on modifications to improve these biomaterials. Focus is drawn to the prominent biomaterials, titanium (Ti) and zirconia due to their prevalence in implant dentistry. Additionally, novel coatings and materials with potential use as viable improvements or alternatives are reviewed. An effective dental biomaterial should osseointegrate, maintain structural integrity, resist corrosion and infection, and not cause systemic toxicity or cytotoxicity. Current materials such as bioactive glass offer protection against biofilm formation, and when combined with a titanium–zirconium (TiZr) alloy, provide a reliable combination of properties to represent a competitive alternative. Further long-term clinical studies are needed to inform the development of next-generation materials.

Significance Statement

Biomaterials have become essential for modern implants. A suitable implant biomaterial integrates into the body to perform a key function, whilst minimizing negative immune response. Focusing on dentistry, the use of dental implants for tooth replacement requires a balance between bodily response, mechanical structure and performance, and aesthetics. This mini-review addresses the use of biomaterials in dental implants with significant comparisons drawn between Ti and zirconia. Attention is drawn to optimizing surface modification processes and the additional use of coatings. Alternatives and novel developments are addressed, providing potential implications of combining biomaterials to form novel composites that combine and synergize the benefits of each material.
La influencia del régimen de la competencia sobre el derecho de los contratos. Postulados para una reflexión a partir del sistema francés
Authors: Acosta Rodríguez Joaquín Emilio , Fernández Muñoz Mónica Lucía
Published: March 2021

Para que una convención sea válida, ya no basta con que ella responda a las exigencias del derecho civil: también es menester que satisfaga las del derecho de la competencia. De esta manera, los acuerdos que falsean el juego de la competencia obligan al juez contemporáneo a alterar la validez de numerosas convenciones, ya que tales comportamientos toman frecuente apoyo en un acuerdo contractual. Igualmente, la sanción de un abuso de posición dominante puede directamente afectar la formación de un contrato, su renovación en condiciones modificadas e incluso a algunas de sus estipulaciones, si constituyen fruto de tal actitud. En Colombia tal sanción observa rango constitucional. Las manifestaciones de esta nueva realidad generan múltiples problemáticas; por ende, el presente artículo aborda la influencia que el derecho de la competencia produce en el derecho de contratos. Se propone un análisis de dicha influencia para reformular el problema de la libertad contractual, a la luz del redimensionamiento del orden público. De esta manera, se recurre a un análisis histórico-originalista, a partir del derecho francés, para repensar la fuerza obligatoria del contrato.
Violencia, masculinidad y vulnerabilidad coexistentes en el habitat cárcelario del “Cereso Morelos” (México)
Authors: Ponce de León Omar García , Huertas Diaz Omar , López Zarco Raúl Antonio
Published: March 2021

Este trabajo es resultado de una investigación fenomenológica efectuada a una cárcel del sistema penitenciario del Estado de Morelos, que pretende explorar y explicar ¿cómo perciben la violencia?, ¿Cómo manifiestan su masculinidad y ¿si reconocen su propia vulnerabilidad? los varones recluidos en el Centro de Reinserción Social Morelos? Derivado de una significativa revisión bibliográfica, y de una reiterada observación no participante, así como del análisis de entrevistas a profundidad (cinco) efectuadas a internos del lugar, permiten estudiar el panorama y explicar las experiencias de los participantes, observar sus prácticas y costumbres. Lo que permitió su análisis, discusión, obtención de resultados y conclusiones. Permitiendo proporcionar una interpretación de sus roles e interacciones en el hábitat penitenciario, resultante de su realidad social.