bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymptotic stability and stabilization of discrete‐time switched systems with time‐varying delay
Authors: Charqi Mohammed , Tissir El Houssaine , Boukili Bensalem
Published: October 2020

This article deals with the problems of stability and stabilization for a class of discrete‐time switched systems with time‐varying delay under arbitrary switching signal. First, sufficient conditions guaranteeing the asymptotic stability of the unforced system are developed, by using the switched Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional method. Then, based on the obtained results, a state feedback controller is designed in order to ensure the asymptotic stability of the closed‐loop system. Furthermore, slack variables are introduced for more relaxation. The proposed approach is proved to have some less conservative results than some existing works. Finally, numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness and the merit of the proposed method and to compare the obtained results with some previous works in the literature.
Regarding Blood-Based Next-Generation Sequencing Analysis of Appendiceal Cancers
Authors: Shen John Paul
Published: October 2020

This letter to the editor questions whether liquid next-generation sequencing is a reasonable substitute for tissue next-generation sequencing for all forms of appendiceal cancer.
Interventions to improve early detection of childhood cancer in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review
Authors: Zabih Weeda , Thota Anilkrishna B. , Mbah Glenn , Freccero Piera , Gupta Sumit , Denburg Avram E.
Published: October 2020

Background

Childhood cancer outcomes in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) lag behind those in high‐income countries (HICs), in part due to late presentation and diagnosis. Though several interventions targeting early detection of childhood cancer have been implemented in LMICs, little is known about their efficacy.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review to identify studies describing such interventions. We searched multiple databases from inception to December 4, 2019. Studies were included if they reported on LMIC interventions focused on: (a) training of health care providers on early recognition of childhood cancer, or (ii) public awareness campaigns. We used preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to conduct our review. The risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions (ROBINS‐I) checklist was used to assess quality of studies.

Results

Twelve studies met inclusion criteria (n = 5 full text, n = 7 abstract only). Five studies focused on retinoblastoma only, while the others focused on all types of childhood cancer. The majority studied multiple interventions of which early detection was one component, but reported overall outcomes. All identified studies used pre‐post evaluative designs to measure efficacy. Five studies reported statistically significant results postintervention: decrease in extraocular spread of retinoblastoma, decrease in rates of refusal/abandonment of treatment, increase in number of new referrals, increase in knowledge, and an absolute increase in median 5‐year survival. Other studies reported improvements without tests of statistical significance. Two studies reported no difference in survival postintervention. The ROBINS‐I checklist indicated that all studies were at serious risk of bias.

Conclusion

Though current evidence suggests that LMIC interventions targeting early detection of childhood cancer through health professional training and/or public awareness campaigns may be effective, this evidence is limited and of poor quality. Robust trials or quasi‐experimental designs with long‐term follow up are needed to identify the most effective interventions. Such studies will facilitate and inform the widespread uptake of early detection interventions across LMIC settings.
Effects of radiation type and dose on the properties of selected polymers
Authors: Burgstaller Christoph , Höftberger Thomas , Gallnböck‐Wagner Bernhard , Stadlbauer Wolfgang
Published: October 2020

Using ionizing radiation to sterilize medical and health care products is a widespread and well established approach, as products can be treated in their final shipping container without any residuals. During irradiation, the product materials will undergo some changes due to the absorbed energy, which have to be assessed during product qualification in order to specify a maximum allowable dose for the product. However, there is a lack of a systematic approach studying polymers in regard to dose ranges encountered and all types of ionizing radiation. Therefore, the aim of this work was to investigate the influence of radiation dose and source on the resulting properties of various polymers, which were already brought into final shape via injection molding, and to compare these effects found in the mechanical and rheological properties as well as their appearance. We found, that the mechanical properties of most investigated polymers are not influenced, except for polypropylene, but that yellowing was a pronounced effect in all the cases. The differences in polymer properties due to the radiation sources are small, only some materials exhibit more degradation by gamma irradiation due to the lower dose rate applied in comparison to x‐ray and e‐beam irradiation.
Evaluation of Guideline Recommendations for Dual Antipseudomonal Therapy in Hospitalized Adults with Pneumonia Using Combination Antibiograms
Authors: Luu Quyen , Vitale Kaylee , Shan Guogen , Jayakumar Rebecca , Viswesh Velliyur
Published: October 2020

Background

Guidelines for pneumonia recommend empiric dual antipseudomonal therapy in patients with specific risk factors. However, there is lack of consensus on when to use dual antipseudomonal therapy as the recommendations are rated as weak, based on low‐quality evidence.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to develop combination antibiograms to assess the susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) in respiratory cultures to combinations of empiric antibiotics and to use combination antibiograms to delineate the impact of specific risk factors for which guidelines recommend dual antipseudomonal therapy.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted of adults hospitalized with pneumonia with positive respiratory cultures for P. aeruginosa between September 2014 and September 2018. Data collected included demographics, antimicrobial susceptibility results, and risk factors for which guidelines recommend dual antipseudomonal therapy. Combination antibiograms were developed and logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors for nonsusceptibility to beta‐lactams.

Results

Eight hundred nineteen patients were included and 72% received antibiotics. Beta‐lactam susceptibility ranged from 58% to 69% and addition of a fluoroquinolone or aminoglycoside resulted in statistically significant increases in susceptibility. However, only addition of tobramycin or amikacin provided susceptibility rates approaching or exceeding 90% stratified by pneumonia type and risk factors. Presence of guideline‐based risk factors generally resulted in reduced susceptibility rates. Logistic regression identified three risk factors associated with nonsusceptibility to beta‐lactams: intravenous antibiotics in the previous 90 days, nursing home residence, and mechanical ventilation at onset. The cumulative presence of each additional risk factor affected beta‐lactam susceptibility rates, which were 93% in the absence of any risk factors and 39% when all three risk factors co‐existed.

Conclusions

Risk factors necessitating dual antipseudomonal therapy for pneumonia should be locally validated. When dual antipseudomonal therapy is indicated, tobramycin or amikacin have the best likelihood of providing adequate in vitro activity.
Poly(methyl methacrylate) bone cement, its rise, growth, downfall and future
Authors: Soleymani Eil Bakhtiari Sanaz , Bakhsheshi‐Rad Hamid Reza , Karbasi Saeed , Tavakoli Mohamadreza , Hassanzadeh Tabrizi Sayed Ali , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Seifalian Alexander , RamaKrishna Seeram , Berto Filippo
Published: October 2020

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)‐based bone cements (BCs) can be defined as a family of materials that consist of powder and liquid phases which after mixing form a plastic paste that can self‐set once implanted in the human body. PMMA‐based BCs are easily molded and adapted to complex bone cavities or used in orthodontic applications to restore dental damage. The main advantages of the use of cement are the excellent primary fixation between bone and implant and, therefore, the faster recovery of the patient. Despite the initial success rate of implant fixation with BCs, they have some disadvantages such as local tissue damage due to exothermic polymerization reactions, mechanical mismatch between native bone and cement, lack of bone regeneration and bioactivity and poor mechanical properties which may cause the failure of the BCs. BCs are still considered as a top option for bone repair. Due to the disadvantages highlighted, research has focused on alternative materials used with PMMA‐based BCs. This review aims to critically review the BCs and emerging materials used in combination with PMMA‐based BCs. These materials include titania, apatite–wollastonite (A‐W), glass ceramic (GC) and hydroxyapatite (HA). The review discusses the properties of these materials and their pathway to clinical study. Among the various kinds of reinforcement, HA has been extensively used. So, in this review, we compare the effects of HA as reinforcement in PMMA‐based BCs. Upcoming study of PMMA‐based BCs should concentrate on trialing combinations of these reinforcing agents as this might improve beneficial characteristics. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Poly(vinyl alcohol)/graphene oxide nanocomposite hydrogel with catalytic activity: the removal behavior and dual adsorption/catalytic degradation mechanism for dye wastewater
Authors: Yu Yaru , Zhao Xiaowen , Ye Lin
Published: October 2020

The treatment of dye wastewater with traditional adsorption materials usually proceeds slowly with low removal efficiency and without completely eliminating dye molecules, leading to secondary pollution. In this work, poly(vinyl alcohol)/graphene oxide@tetraamino iron phthalocyanine (PVA/GO@TAFePc) nanocomposite hydrogels with catalytic activity were prepared via an in situ crosslinking method. Through interfacial covalent and π–π interactions, TAFePc was loaded onto GO layers with a high loading ratio, and GO@TAFePc was exfoliated and uniformly dispersed in the matrix. With increasing GO@TAFePc hybrid content, the pore size increased and a loose network structure was formed for the hydrogels, while the specific surface area rose significantly by using the hydrogel in a dye removal process, the removal rate of methylene blue (MB) increased sharply with contact time, reaching 98% in the presence of H2O2 with good reusability, and high removal efficiency was achieved for different dyes. The large surface area of the hydrogel was beneficial for MB adsorption. Meanwhile, under catalysis of TAFePc, a large amount of high activity ·OH was produced by H2O2 so as to degrade the MB molecules rapidly. Therefore, the MB degradation process for the composite hydrogel was ascribed to a dual adsorption/catalytic degradation mechanism. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Quality of death: The unspoken experiences of patients with advanced cancers in India – An exploratory qualitative study
Authors: Sudhakar Revathy , Veeraiah Surendran , Ganesan Prasanth , Balakrishnan Kalpana
Published: October 2020

Objective

End‐of‐life (EOL) care is a developing concept in India, with well‐established practices in certain states like Kerala, but not in all the states. As there is a substantial stigma associated with death discussion across the Indian population, the experiences of caregivers of people with advanced cancer have not been explored. Our aim in this study was to explore the experience and perceptions of caregivers of people diagnosed with advanced cancer regarding the quality of the individuals' death.

Methods

An exploratory study where the caregivers (n = 108) of advanced cancer patients, who died either during hospitalization or at home, were interviewed to assess quality of death (QOD), using an open‐ended question to explore the sufferings of the patients in the final days and caregivers' coping mechanism.

Results

Majority of the patients died at home (n = 79, 73.1%). The thematic analysis of the transcripts resulted in seven sub‐themes, which were categorized under four major themes, namely ‘bodily discomfort’, ‘psychological experiences’ with the sub‐themes resilience and existential distress, ‘awareness of prognoses’ with the sub‐themes aware, unaware and conjecture, and ‘carers coping’ with the sub‐themes perceived strain and contentment.

Conclusion

Patients under EOL care experience physical and psychological suffering, as reported by the caregivers. Efforts must be undertaken to reduce suffering by means of improving focus on and strengthening symptom management and enhancing psychosocial support, for optimally utilizing the available interventions to manage the physical symptoms and to address the psychosocial issues.
On the Gravitational Force on Anti‐Matter
Authors: Caldwell Allen , Dvali Gia
Published: October 2020

A number of experiments are currently underway on antimatter, particularly anti‐hydrogen, to test whether the fundamental interactions behave the same way as for matter. Here we present a simple argument showing that a bound on a difference in gravitational forces exerted on matter and antimatter is already so severe that is goes well beyond the sensitivity of the above measurements.
Magnitude and decline of pesticide co‐formulant residues in vegetables and fruits: results from field trials compared to estimated values
Authors: Balmer Marianne E , Janser Daniel , Schaller Ulrich , Krauss Jürgen , Geiser H Christoph , Poiger Thomas
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

The application of plant protection products (PPPs) leads to the formation of residues in treated crops. Even though PPPs contain considerable amounts of co‐formulants, regulation and monitoring of residues normally focus on the active substances (a.s.) only. For our study we selected four commonly used co‐formulants (three anionic surfactants and one organic solvent) and investigated the formation and decline of residues in vegetables and apples under field conditions. The aims were to characterize the behavior of co‐formulant residues on crops and to provide a basis for future investigations on consumer exposure.

RESULTS

The development of robust and sensitive analytical methods allowed the quantification of residues in the low μg/kg‐level. After treatment with PPPs, co‐formulants were detected up to approximately 10 mg kg–1 in vegetables. In general, these residues declined fast with half‐lives of a few days. Wash‐off and volatilization were identified as important removal processes for anionic surfactants and the organic solvent, respectively. However, in specific crops (parsley and celery), organic solvent residues were still considerable (≈2 mg kg–1) 2 weeks after treatment. We further demonstrate that it is feasible to estimate co‐formulant residues using publicly available data on pesticide a.s.

CONCLUSION

To date no information on co‐formulant residues in food is available. The findings from our field trials, as well as the presented approach for the prediction of residues, provide key elements for future consideration of consumer exposure to PPP co‐formulants. © 2020 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Structural and Dielectric Properties of Ba1−xLax(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 Solid Solutions
Authors: Qasrawi A. F. , Sahin Ethem İlhan , Abed Tamara Y. , Emek Mehriban
Published: October 2020

Herein, lanthanum doping effects on the structural, dielectric, and electrical properties of Ba1−xLax(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 (BZN) solid solutions are focused upon. The La contents which are varied in the range of 0.02–0.20 exhibit a solubility limit of x = 0.02. Although minor phases of Ba5Nb4O15 and Ba3LaNb3O12 appear for samples doped with La contents of x = 0.05 and x = 0.10, they play no remarkable role for the enhanced structural and dielectric properties of BZN. The La doping content of x = 0.02 succeeds in increasing the crystallite size by 51.16% and lowering the microstrain by 34.18% and defect concentration by 63.10%. La‐doped BZN ceramics display higher values of relative density and electrical conductivity. The analyses of the dielectric spectra as a function of temperature display dielectric relaxation behavior above 120 °C. In the temperature range of 20–120 °C, La doping changes the temperature coefficient of dielectric constants from +30 ppm °C−1 in pure samples to −341 ppm °C−1 in samples doped with La contents of x = 0.10. The enhancements in structural parameters, density values, and dielectric responses that are achieved via La doping make BZN ceramics more suitable for electronic device fabrication.
Effects of Temperature and Pressure on Elastic Properties of Single Crystal Aluminum in Different Crystal Orientations
Authors: Wen Yang , Yunxin Wu
Published: October 2020

Molecular dynamics simulations are carried out to study the mechanical and elastic properties of single crystal aluminum with various crystal orientations at different temperatures and under different pressure. Transformations of lattice structures under high pressure, tensile and shearing loads are investigated, respectively. When the pressure increases to 1011 Pa, the face centered cubic (FCC) structure is completely transformed into body centered cubic (BCC) and other structures. The transformation from FCC to hexagonal close packed (HCP) and other structures takes place during tensile and shearing processes. Elastic compliance constants are calculated at different temperatures. Elastic modulus and shear modulus of different crystal orientations at different temperatures are calculated by the formula method, and compared with the results of molecular dynamics method. The decrease extent of elastic modulus in <111> crystal orientation is the smallest with the increase of temperature. The effects of high pressure on elastic modulus and shear modulus in different crystal orientations are also investigated. When the pressure exceeds 109 Pa, the elastic modulus and shear modulus in all crystal orientations begin to increase. Poisson's ratio in different crystal orientations at different temperatures and under high pressure are also calculated.
Effective Reduction of Oxygen Debris in Graphene Oxide
Authors: Seri-Livni Orit , Saguy Cecile , Horani Faris , Lifshitz Efrat , Cheskis Dima
Published: October 2020

Graphene oxide (GO) raised substantial interest in the past two decades due to its unique properties beyond those of pristine graphene, including electronic energy bandgap, hydrophilic behavior, and numerous anchoring sites required for functionalization. In addition, GO is found to be a cheap mass‐production source for the formation of the pristine graphene. However, the presence of numerous clusters containing oxygen functional groups (called debris) on the GO surface hinders the GO integration in electronic devices. Herein, a simple method aimed to reduce the density of oxygen debris weakly bonded to the surface is presented. The method consists of minimal treatments, like sonication and/or water rinsing processes. Whereas this simple method removed epoxy and hydroxyl oxygen groups weakly attached to the graphene matrix, the double CO bonds are almost not affected by the applied treatment, as demonstrated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Scanning tunneling microscopy and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy measure the designated nonuniform distribution of the oxidation sites, appearing as clusters concentrated preferentially on GO‐defected regions, albeit separated by pristine graphene areas. The results should have an impact in the implementation of GO in electronic devices deposited on different substrates.
Apple polyphenol extract alleviates lipid accumulation in free‐fatty‐acid‐exposed HepG2 cells via activating autophagy mediated by SIRT1/AMPK signaling
Authors: Li Deming , Cui Yuan , Wang Xinjing , Liu Fang , Li Xinli
Published: October 2020

Defective degradation of intracellular lipids induced by autophagy is causally linked to the development of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Natural agents that can restore autophagy could therefore have the potentials for clinical applications for this public health issue. Herein, we investigated the effects of apple polyphenol extract (APE) on fatty acid‐induced lipids depositions in HepG2 cells. APE treatment alleviated palmitic acid and oleic acid‐induced intracellular lipid accumulation, concomitant with the increased autophagy, restored lysosomal acidification, inhibited lipid synthesis and slight promotion of fatty acid oxidation. Mechanistically, APE up‐regulated the expression of SIRT1, activated LKB1/AMPK pathway and inhibited mTOR signaling. Over‐expressed or knock‐down SIRT1 positively regulated AMPK and ATG7 expressions. SIRT1 and ATG7 knock‐down impaired APE induction of improved lipid accumulation, increased intracellular TG content. Thus, APE induction of autophagy to ameliorate fatty acid‐induced lipid deposition is SIRT1 dependent, APE conserved preventive potentials for clinical hepatosteatosis.
Investigation into the load bridging effect for block class pallets as a function of package size and pallet stiffness
Authors: Morrissette Steven Michael , Horvath Laszlo , DeLack Kristen
Published: October 2020

Pallets and corrugated boxes are ubiquitous in the global supply chain. However, the interactions that exist between the boxes and pallets are ignored during the pallet design process resulting in the over designing of pallets and the waste of raw materials. The goal of this research is to understand how pallet performance is affected by headspace, box size, and base design across multiple support conditions using block class wooden pallets. Headspace and base design had no effect on pallet deflection for the experimental weights used throughout testing. However, the effect of box size was significant on pallet deflection across multiple support conditions. The effect was greatest for lower stiffness pallets and low‐stiffness support conditions (racking across the width; RAW) with up to a 50% reduction in pallet deflection observed by switching from small to large boxes on a very low‐stiffness pallet. Evaluation of pressure mat data showed an increase in the redistribution of pressure away from the center of the pallet and toward the supports as box size increased. The redistribution of pressure toward the supports is known as load bridging and validates the observed reduction in pallet deflection as a function of box size. The results indicate that incorporating this effect of packages into current pallet design practices could result in more effective and cheaper pallet designs.
On the number of bins in a rank histogram
Authors: Heinrich Claudio
Published: October 2020

Rank histograms are popular tools for assessing the reliability of meteorological ensemble forecast systems. A reliable forecast system leads to a uniform rank histogram, and deviations from uniformity can indicate miscalibrations. However, the ability to identify such deviations by visual inspection of rank histogram plots crucially depends on the number of bins chosen for the histogram. If too few bins are chosen, the rank histogram is likely to miss miscalibrations; if too many are chosen, even perfectly calibrated forecast systems can yield rank histograms that do not appear uniform. In this paper we address this trade‐off and propose a method for choosing the number of bins for a rank histogram. The goal of our method is to select a number of bins such that the intuitive decision whether a histogram is uniform or not is as close as possible to a formal statistical test. Our results indicate that it is often appropriate to choose fewer bins than the usual choice of ensemble size plus one, especially when the number of observations available for verification is small.
E‐Bayesian estimation and associated properties of simple step–stress model for exponential distribution based on type‐II censoring
Authors: Nassar Mazen , Okasha Hassan , Albassam Mohammed
Published: October 2020

In this paper, expected Bayesian (E‐Bayesian) estimation for the simple step–stress model based on type‐II censoring scheme is considered. The case of exponential distribution for the underlying lifetimes is considered assuming a cumulative exposure model. The E‐Bayesian estimation is discussed by considering three different prior distributions for the hyperparameters. The E‐Bayesian estimators as well as the corresponding E‐posterior risks are obtained by using squared error and linear‐exponential (LINEX) loss functions. Some properties of the E‐Bayesian estimators are also derived. We conduct a simulation study to compare the various estimators and a simulated and real data sets are analyzed to show the applicability of the different estimators. The numerical results show that the E‐Bayesian estimators perform better than the classical and Bayesian estimators.
Using solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance to rationalize best efficiency of 2,6‐dihydroxybenzoic acid over other 2,X‐dihydroxybenzoic acid isomers in solvent‐free matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization of poly(ethylene glycol)
Authors: Pizzala Hélène , Chendo Christophe , Charles Laurence
Published: October 2020

Rationale

Among isomers of dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB), 2,5‐DHB is often the most efficient matrix in matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) for a great variety of compounds. Yet, when performing solvent‐free MALDI, 2,6‐DHB yields better results for poly(ethylene glycol [PEG]). This intriguing feature is explored here using solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).

Methods

Ternary mixtures were prepared by grinding 2,X‐DHB (X = 3–6), poly(ethylene glycol) (Mn = 2000 g mol−1) and lithium fluoride (LiF) in a matrix/analyte/salt molar ratio of 50/1/10 for 16 min under a controlled atmosphere. After mixing, a few grains were applied to the MALDI target for MS analysis, whereas the major part of the ground sample was transferred into rotors to perform 13C, 7Li, and 19F NMR experiments.

Results

Lithiated PEG chains are mainly formed with 2,6‐DHB in solvent‐free MALDI, but their abundance increases with 2,3‐DHB and 2,4‐DHB when water uptake is favored by a humid atmosphere. Solid‐state NMR shows that grinding 2,6‐DHB‐based samples in atmospheric conditions leads to a solid phase in which the matrix, PEG, and salt molecules exhibit a high mobility compared with systems involving other 2,X‐DHB isomers. This mobile environment would favor (as a solvent) LiF dissociation and best promote PEG cationization.

Conclusions

Complementary data in 13C, 7Li, and 19F NMR spectra are consistent with the formation of a solid phase of high mobility composed of 2,6‐DHB, PEG, and the two salt components that ultimately favor the production of lithiated PEG chains.
A sustainability assessment of an in situ ultrasonic reactor for remediation of PFAS‐contaminated groundwater
Authors: Laramay Fiona , Crimi Michelle
Published: October 2020

The environmental remediation industry has increasingly considered the sustainability impacts of remediation systems. The ideal remediation system has a greater environmental benefit than detriment. While sustainable systems are increasingly available for many contaminants, per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances have presented new challenges for remediation practitioners seeking effective and sustainable systems. Here the sustainability and cost impacts of an ultrasonic reactor installed in a horizontal well (referred to as the In situ reactor technology [inSRT] system) at a hypothetical site are quantified and compared to hypothetical pump‐and‐treat (PT) system impacts. Direct costs of emissions from remediation were compared using LCOE data. The indirect impacts from pollution were quantified based on literature values. The results showed that the InSRT system had lower lifecycle impacts and costs compared to the PT system when each was considered under individually optimal conditions. InSRT was found to meet sustainability goals when used in a low hydraulic conductivity source zone and the PT system lifecycle impacts were reduced when the system was used in a high‐hydraulic conductivity area.
Single Source, Surfactant‐Free, and One‐Step Solvothermal Route Synthesized TiO2 Microspheres for Highly Efficient Mesoscopic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Guodong , Song Jing , Meng Chao , Wang Deng , Du Zhenbo , Sun Weihai , Wu Jihuai , Lan Zhang
Published: October 2020

The instant extraction and transmission of photogenerated charge carriers is the key factor to obtain efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The mesoporous electronic transport layer can provide heterogeneous nucleation sites for high‐quality perovskite films and expand the charge separation region to better balance charge transport. Therefore, compared with planar PSCs, most mesoporous PSCs usually exhibit superior photovoltaic performance. Herein, TiO2 microspheres with high crystallinity and purity are synthesized by a single source, surfactant‐free, and one‐step solvothermal reaction strategy. The morphology character of TiO2 mesoporous layers is conducive to good permeation and interfacial contact of perovskite. The gradient adjustment of energy level by the insertion of TiO2 mesoporous layer in the device is beneficial for the effective extraction of electrons. Finally, the optimized mesoporous PSCs can achieve an efficiency of 20.95% with slight hysteresis and satisfactory reproducibility.
Concrete screws as a post‐installed punching shear reinforcement
Authors: Walkner Rupert , Spiegl Matthias , Feix Jürgen
Published: October 2020

The strengthening of concrete structures is becoming more and more important. To achieve this need for strengthening measures, technically innovative, simple and economical systems for subsequent strengthening are required. At the University of Innsbruck, a system for subsequent strengthening of the punching shear zone through the installation of concrete screws has been developed. These screws are installed from the soffit side of the slab in vertically predrilled holes and are arranged concentrically around the support. This paper discusses the results of four test series, with a total of 21 specimens used to develop the system. The system, which can be very easily installed, demonstrates a significant increase of the shear punching capacity and a reduction in brittle failure modes. In addition, cyclic loading with typical levels of service load has no negative effect on the effectiveness of the system. Finally, the influence of the flexural reinforcement ratio on the effectiveness of the strengthening system was investigated.
The Feeling of Enlightenment: Managing Emotions through Yoga and Prayer
Authors: Johnston Erin F.
Published: October 2020

This paper explores how two spiritual communities—a Catholic prayer house and an Integral Yoga studio—shape the emotional lives of their members. I find that both organizations promise to facilitate what I call holistic emotional change: modifications of deep‐seated emotional habits and dispositions. Moreover, both organizations transmit a comprehensive emotion management system—a regimen of different practices, or techniques of emotion management, with distinct goals and temporal horizons. At both sites, these practices—prospective, reflexive, and in situ techniques—are thought to work in tandem to overcome negative emotional habits and cultivate abiding dispositions of joy, peace, and contentment.
Effect of sulfonamide class of antibiotics on a bacterial consortium isolated from an anaerobic digester of a sewage treatment plant
Authors: Naquin Ethan , Soorya Hiba , Oubre Christopher , Rogers Sarah , Boopathy Raj
Published: October 2020

The effect of the sulfonamide class of antibiotics, namely, trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (TMP–SMX) on growth and metabolism of a bacterial consortium isolated from an anaerobic digester of a sewage treatment plant, was investigated. The bacterial consortium was exposed to various concentrations of TMP–SMX. The results indicated that there was no effect of TMP and SMX on the bacterial consortium in terms of bacterial growth and carbon and nitrate removal even at the highest concentration tested at 250 mg/L. The carbon removal was more than 90%, and the nitrate removal was more than 87% in all culture conditions. A pure culture was isolated and identified as Leuconostoc mesenteroides from the consortium, which was able to use TMP and SMX as the sole source of carbon for growth. This pure culture has the sul1 gene to show resistance to these antibiotics. This research could be used in the anaerobic digestion process to degrade various classes of sulfonamide antibiotics before the treated sludge is discharged into the environment to reduce the concentration of TMP and SMX.
Aβ oligomer induced cognitive impairment and evaluation of ACU193‐MNS‐based MRI in rabbit
Authors: Rozema Nicholas B. , Procissi Daniele , Bertolino Nicola , Viola Kirsten L. , Nandwana Vikas , Abdul Nafay , Pribus Sophia , Dravid Vinayak , Klein William L. , Disterhoft John F. , Weiss Craig
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Amyloid‐beta oligomers (AβOs) accumulate in Alzheimer's disease and may instigate neuronal pathology and cognitive impairment. We examined the ability of a new probe for molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect AβOs in vivo, and we tested the behavioral impact of AβOs injected in rabbits, a species with an amino acid sequence that is nearly identical to the human sequence.

Methods

Intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection with stabilized AβOs was performed. Rabbits were probed for AβO accumulation using ACUMNS (an AβO‐selective antibody [ACU193] coupled to magnetic nanostructures). Immunohistochemistry was used to verify AβO presence. Cognitive impairment was evaluated using object location and object recognition memory tests and trace eyeblink conditioning.

Results

AβOs in the entorhinal cortex of ICV‐injected animals were detected by MRI and confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Injections of AβOs also impaired hippocampal‐dependent, but not hippocampal‐independent, tasks and the area fraction of bound ACUMNs correlated with the behavioral impairment.

Discussion

Accumulation of AβOs can be visualized in vivo by MRI of ACUMNS and the cognitive impairment induced by the AβOs can be followed longitudinally with the novel location memory test.
Optimal imaging modality for detection of rectosigmoid deep endometriosis: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Gerges B. , Li W. , Leonardi M. , Mol B. W. , Condous G.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To review the accuracy of different imaging modalities for the detection of rectosigmoid deep endometriosis (DE) in women with clinical suspicion of endometriosis, and to determine the optimal modality.

Methods

A search was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE and Google Scholar to identify studies using imaging to evaluate women with suspected DE, published from inception to May 2020. Studies were considered eligible if they were prospective and used any imaging modality to assess preoperatively for the presence of DE in the rectum/rectosigmoid, which was then correlated with the surgical diagnosis as the reference standard. Eligibility was restricted to studies including at least 10 affected and 10 unaffected women. The QUADAS‐2 tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Mixed‐effects diagnostic meta‐analysis was used to determine the overall pooled sensitivity and specificity of each imaging modality for rectal/rectosigmoid DE, which were used to calculate the likelihood ratio of a positive (LR+) and negative (LR–) test and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR).

Results

Of the 1979 records identified, 30 studies (3374 women) were included in the analysis. The overall pooled sensitivity and specificity, LR+, LR– and DOR for the detection of rectal/rectosigmoid DE using transvaginal sonography (TVS) were, respectively, 89% (95% CI, 83–92%), 97% (95% CI, 95–98%), 30.8 (95% CI, 17.6–54.1), 0.12 (95% CI, 0.08–0.17) and 264 (95% CI, 113–614). For magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the respective values were 86% (95% CI, 79–91%), 96% (95% CI, 94–97%), 21.0 (95% CI, 13.4–33.1), 0.15 (95% CI, 0.09–0.23) and 144 (95% CI, 70–297). For computed tomography, the respective values were 93% (95% CI, 84–97%), 95% (95% CI, 81–99%), 20.3 (95% CI, 4.3–94.9), 0.07 (95% CI, 0.03–0.19) and 280 (95% CI, 28–2826). For rectal endoscopic sonography (RES), the respective values were 92% (95% CI, 87–95%), 98% (95% CI, 96–99%), 37.1 (95% CI, 21.1–65.4), 0.08 (95% CI, 0.05–0.14) and 455 (95% CI, 196–1054). There was significant heterogeneity and the studies were considered methodologically poor according to the QUADAS‐2 tool.

Conclusions

The sensitivity of TVS for the detection of rectal/rectosigmoid DE seems to be slightly better than that of MRI, although RES was superior to both. The specificity of both TVS and MRI was excellent. As TVS is simpler, faster and more readily available than the other methods, we believe that it should be the first‐line diagnostic tool for women with suspected DE. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Visitors' perceptions of zoo‐housed lesser anteater (Tamandua tetradactyla) welfare: Observation plays a larger role than a brief informative talk
Authors: Chiapero Florencia , Ferrari Ricardo H. , Guglielmetti Agustín , García Capocasa María C. , Busso Juan M.
Published: October 2020

There is a growing ethical concern in modern society about animals' quality of life. We hypothesize that zoo visitors' perception of zoo animal welfare, particularly in the case of lesser anteaters, changes positively after listening to scientific information. Visitors observing active lesser anteaters in their enclosures at Córdoba Zoo (Argentina) were asked to respond to a questionnaire about animal welfare. The treatment group (T) answered the questionnaire after listening to a brief informative talk based on local scientific studies on lesser anteaters. The control group (C) answered the questionnaire without hearing the informative talk. Visitors (87.2%) considered biological, sanitary, and sociocultural aspects to be necessary conditions for optimum wild zoo‐housed animal welfare. The majority of visitors considered that natural surroundings provide the highest level of welfare for wild animals. Visitors in the T group ranked the zoo as providing a higher level of animal welfare than those in group C. In reference to management measurements, the T group agreed on the positive effect of the application of environmental enrichment (Likert Medians: C = 4 and T = 5; p = .0443). On the basis of their perception, most visitors in both groups stated that the lesser anteaters at Córdoba Zoo appeared to be in a good state of welfare. We interpret this as meaning that, what these Córdoba zoo visitors personally perceived while observing the lesser anteaters carried greater weight than what they learned from the informative talk, though the talk did slightly affect their opinion.
More on heavy-light bootstrap up to double-stress-tensor
Authors: Li Yue-Zhou , Zhang Hao-Yu
Published: October 2020

Abstract

We investigate the heavy-light four-point function up to double-stress-tensor, supplementing 1910.06357. By using the OPE coefficients of lowest-twist double-stress- tensor in the literature, we find the Regge behavior for lowest-twist double-stress-tensor in general even dimension within the large impact parameter regime. In the next, we perform the Lorentzian inversion formula to obtain both the OPE coefficients and anomalous dimensions of double-twist operators [$$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
H$$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
L]n,J with finite spin J in d = 4. We also extract the anomalous dimensions of double-twist operators with finite spin in general dimension, which allows us to address the cases that ∆L is specified to the poles in lowest-twist double-stress-tensors where certain double-trace operators [$$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
L$$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
L]n,J mix with lowest-twist double-stress-tensors. In particular, we verify and discuss the Residue relation that deter- mines the product of the mixed anomalous dimension and the mixed OPE. We also present the double-trace and mixed OPE coefficients associated with ∆L poles in d = 6, 8. In the end, we turn to discuss CFT2, we verify the uniqueness of double-stress-tensor that is consistent with Virasoso symmetry.
Towards an explicit construction of de Sitter solutions in classical supergravity
Authors: Kim Nakwoo
Published: October 2020

Abstract

We revisit the stringy construction of four-dimensional de-Sitter solutions using orientifolds O8±, proposed by Córdova et al. (2019) [1]. While the original analysis of the supergravity equations is largely numerical, we obtain semi-analytic solutions by treating the curvature as a perturbative parameter. At each order we verify that the (permissive) boundary conditions at the orientifolds are satisfied. To illustrate the advantage of our result, we calculate the four-dimensional Newton constant as a function of the cosmological constant. We also discuss how the discontinuities at O8− can be accounted for in terms of corrections to the worldvolume action.
Monodromy charge in D7-brane inflation
Authors: Kim Manki , McAllister Liam
Published: October 2020

Abstract

In axion monodromy inflation, traversingNaxion periods corresponds to dischargingNunits of a quantized charge. In certain models with moving D7-branes, such as Higgs-otic inflation, this monodromy charge is D3-brane charge induced on the D7-branes. The stress-energy of the induced charge affects the internal space, changing the inflaton potential and potentially limiting the field range. We compute the backreaction of induced D3-brane charge in Higgs-otic inflation. The effect on the nonperturbative superpotential is dramatic even forN= 1, and may preclude large-field inflation in this model in the absence of a mechanism to control the backreaction.
The role of CD8 + T lymphocytes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review
Authors: Williams Maya , Todd Ian , Fairclough Lucy C.
Published: October 2020

Objective and design

This systematic review aims to establish the role of CD8 + T lymphocytes in COPD.

Methods

Forty-eight papers published in the last 15 years were identified for inclusion.

Results

CD8 + T-cells are increased in the lungs of patients with COPD (17 studies, 16 positive) whereas in the circulation, findings were inconclusive. Activation of CD8 + T-cells was enhanced in lungs (four studies, three positive) but cell phenotype was unclear. There was substantial evidence of a higher proportion of type 1 CD8 + (Tc1) cells in COPD (11 studies, 9 positive), though the population of type 2 (Tc2) cells was also increased (5 studies, 4 positive). CD8 + T-cells in COPD exhibited greater expression of cytotoxic proteins (five studies, five positive). Studies assessed a variety of questions so evidence was insufficient to draw firm conclusions. The role of CD8 + T-cells at acute exacerbation of COPD and also their contribution to alveolar destruction can only be hypothesised at this stage.

Conclusions

Not only is the number of CD8 + T-cells increased in COPD, these cells have increased capacity to exert effector functions and are likely to contribute to disease pathogenesis. Several mechanisms highlighted show promise for future investigation to consolidate current knowledge.
Conformally related Douglas metrics in dimension two are Randers
Authors: Matveev Vladimir S. , Saberali Samaneh
Published: October 2020

We show that two-dimensional conformally related Douglas metrics are Randers.
Stability of the Enhanced Area Law of the Entanglement Entropy
Authors: Müller Peter , Schulte Ruth
Published: October 2020

We consider a multi-dimensional continuum Schrödinger operator which is given by a perturbation of the negative Laplacian by a compactly supported potential. We establish both an upper bound and a lower bound on the bipartite entanglement entropy of the ground state of the corresponding quasi-free Fermi gas. The bounds prove that the scaling behaviour of the entanglement entropy remains a logarithmically enhanced area law as in the unperturbed case of the free Fermi gas. The central idea for the upper bound is to use a limiting absorption principle for such kinds of Schrödinger operators.
On the well posedness of static boundary value problem within the linear dilatational strain gradient elasticity
Authors: Eremeyev Victor A. , Lurie Sergey A. , Solyaev Yury O. , dell’Isola Francesco
Published: October 2020

In this paper, it is proven an existence and uniqueness theorem for weak solutions of the equilibrium problem for linear isotropic dilatational strain gradient elasticity. Considered elastic bodies have as deformation energy the classical one due to Lamé but augmented with an additive term that depends on the norm of the gradient of dilatation: only one extra second gradient elastic coefficient is introduced. The studied class of solids is therefore related to Korteweg or Cahn–Hilliard fluids. The postulated energy naturally induces the space in which the aforementioned well-posedness result can be formulated. In this energy space, the introduced norm does involve the linear combination of some specific higher-order derivatives only: it is, in fact, a particular example of anisotropic Sobolev space. It is also proven that aforementioned weak solutions belongs to the space $$H^1(div,V)$$

H
1

(
d
i
v
,
V
)

, i.e. the space of $$H^1$$

H
1

functions whose divergence belongs to $$H^1$$

H
1

. The proposed mathematical frame is essential to conceptually base, on solid grounds, the numerical integration schemes required to investigate the properties of dilatational strain gradient elastic bodies. Their energy, as studied in the present paper, has manifold interests. Mathematically speaking, its singularity causes interesting mathematical difficulties whose overcoming leads to an increased understanding of the theory of second gradient continua. On the other hand, from the mechanical point of view, it gives an example of energy for a second gradient continuum which can sustain externally applied surface forces and double forces but cannot sustain externally applied surface couples. In this way, it is proven that couple stress continua, introduced by Toupin, represent only a particular case of the more general class of second gradient continua. Moreover, it is easily checked that for dilatational strain gradient continua, balance of force and balance of torques (or couples) are not enough to characterise equilibrium: to this aim, externally applied surface double forces must also be specified. As a consequence, the postulation scheme based on variational principles seems more suitable to study second gradient continua. It has to be remarked finally that dilatational strain gradient seems suitable to model the experimentally observed behaviour of some material used in 3D printing process.