bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging for precision medicine: can V‐P SPECT measure mepolizumab response in asthma?
Authors: McDonald Vanessa M. , Urroz Paola D. , Bajc Marika , Rutherford Natalie , Brooker Bree , Gibson Peter G.
Published: February 2021

Monoclonal antibody therapies are effective for many but not all people with severe asthma. Precision medicine guides treatment selection using biomarkers to select patients most likely to respond according to their inflammatory endotypes. However, when assessing response to treatment, greater precision is required. We report a case series describing treatment response to mepolizumab in four severe asthma patients, assessed by traditional methods and with objective ventilation/perfusion single photon emission computed tomography (V‐P SPECT). In this series, patients with severe asthma received mepolizumab treatment with clinical outcomes recorded at commencement and at approximately 16 weeks post‐treatment initiation. V‐P SPECT imaging was performed before and after treatment to determine ventilation heterogeneity and perfusion, and its ability to assess treatment responsiveness. V‐P SPECT shows promise as an objective measure to assess lung ventilation and perfusion to observe and assess responsiveness to mepolizumab. With quantification, this measure may allow better precision in determining treatment improvements.
Copper‐Based Nanoscale Coordination Polymers Augmented Tumor Radioimmunotherapy for Immunogenic Cell Death Induction and T‐Cell Infiltration
Authors: Wang Yuxiang , Ding Yawen , Yao Dan , Dong Hong , Ji Changwei , Wu Jinhui , Hu Yiqiao , Yuan Ahu
Published: February 2021

Insufficient T‐cell infiltration seriously hinders the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy. Induction of immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a potentially feasible approach to increase T‐cell infiltration. Since ionizing radiation can only induce low‐level ICD, this study constructs Cu‐based nanoscale coordination polymers (Cu‐NCPs) with mixed‐valence (Cu+/Cu2+), which can simultaneously and independently induce the generation of Cu+‐triggered hydroxyl radicals and Cu2+‐triggered GSH elimination, to synergize with radiation therapy for potent ICD induction. Markedly, this synergetic therapy remarkably enhances dendritic cell maturation and promotes antitumor CD8+ T‐cell infiltration, thereby potentiating the development of checkpoint blockade immunotherapies against primary and metastatic tumors.
A Virus‐Spike Tumor‐Activatable Pyroptotic Agent
Authors: Nadeem Sadia , Yang Chuang , Du Yang , Li Fangyuan , Chen Zheng , Zhou Yan , Lee Ji Young , Ding Qiang , Ling Daishun
Published: February 2021

Invoking the occurrence of pyroptosis is an emerging strategy for the treatment of cancer. However, the practical applications of pyroptosis for cancer therapy are currently hindered due to the lack of tumor‐specific and efficient pyroptotic agents in vivo. Herein, a virus‐spike tumor‐activatable pyroptotic agent (VTPA) for cancer‐specific therapy is reported. The VTPA is composed of an organosilica coated iron oxide nanoparticle core and spiky manganese dioxide protrusions, which can readily accumulate in tumor after systemic administration, facilitate the tumor intracellular lysosomal rupture, and be degraded by tumor over‐expressed intracellular glutathione (GSH) to release Mn ions and iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) for the synergetic activation of nucleotide binding oligomerization domain‐like receptors protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes. Consequently, the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes and the release of lactate dehydrogenase of tumor cells are observed after the treatment of VTPA, resulting in a specific pyroptotic cell death. To our best knowledge, the structure‐dependent and tumor intracellular GSH activatable pyroptotic agents represent the first demonstration of cancer‐specific pyroptosis in vivo, providing a novel paradigm for the development of next‐generation cancer‐specific pyroptotic nanomedicine.
Growth of Semiconducting Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes Array by Precisely Inhibiting Metallic Tubes Using ZrO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Lin Dewu , Yu Yue , Li Lanying , Zou Mingzhi , Zhang Jin
Published: February 2021

Synthesis of high‐quality single‐walled carbon nanotubes arrays with pure semiconducting type is crucial for the fabrication of integrated circuits in nanoscale. However, the naturally grown carbon nanotubes usually have diverse structures and properties. Here the bicomponent catalyst using Au and ZrO2 is designed and prepared. The Au nanoparticle serves as the catalysts for carbon feedstock cracking and facilitating the nucleation of carbon nanotubes, whereas the close‐connected ZrO2 forms a localized etching zone around Au by releasing lattice oxygen and to inhibit the nucleation of metallic carbon nanotubes precisely. The obtained single‐walled carbon nanotubes array show a high semiconducting content of >96%, on the basis of good performance of field‐effect transistor devices. And such building of localized etching zone is compatible with other catalyst systems as a universal and efficient method for the scalable production of semiconducting carbon nanotubes.
Effect of Mold Electromagnetic Stirring and Final Electromagnetic Stirring on the Solidification Structure and Macrosegregation in Bloom Continuous Casting
Authors: Wang Yadong , Zhang Lifeng , Yang Wen , Ji Sha , Ren Ying
Published: February 2021

The solidification structure and macrosegregation are investigated in different current intensities of mold electromagnetic stirring (M‐EMS) and final electromagnetic stirring (F‐EMS) by a series of industrial trials during the 20CrMnTi bloom continuous casting (CC) process. With the current intensity of M‐EMS increasing from 100 to 390 A, the deflection angle of columnar dendrites increases from 25.0 to 32.49 deg. With the current intensity of M‐EMS increasing from 0 to 390 A, the equiaxed crystal ratio increases from 20.4% to 25.7% and center porosity varies little. With the increasing current intensity of M‐EMS, the negative segregation in the subsurface and positive segregation in the columnar‐to‐equiaxed transition (CET) zone deteriorate gradually. The M‐EMS has little effect on the center‐positive segregation, and the center‐positive segregation is maintained at 1.37–1.40. With the current intensity of F‐EMS increasing from 0 to 500 A, the equiaxed crystal ratio is within 25.3–25.8%, and the large center porosities disappear instead of numerous fine spots in the equiaxed zone. The degree of center‐positive segregation decreases from 1.48 to 1.30. For the CC process, to obtain a better internal quality of 20CrMnTi bloom, the optimal current intensities of M‐EMS and F‐EMS are 0 and 500 A, respectively.
Five Principles to Nurture Motivation Within Early Reading Interventions
Authors: Erickson Joy Dangora , Ward Alessandra E. , Boivin Jacquelynne Anne , Fornauf Beth
Published: February 2021

The authors illustrate the compatibility of building K‐2 readers’ foundational skills and their motivation for completing reading and related tasks within reading interventions. First, the authors introduce the orthographic mapping process, which requires foundational reading skills because of its role in facilitating fluent reading. Research demonstrating the relation between motivation and achievement is synthesized next to convey the need to maximize students’ motivation for intervention tasks. Finally, the authors offer five general design principles to support motivation. They underscore the importance of educators relying on these principles in combination with their deep knowledge of each student to offer intervention experiences that nurture motivation. An example of a foundational skills activity supportive of the orthographic mapping process and adapted to exemplify the motivation principle of focus accompanies each principle.
Demonstration‐scale evaluation of ozone–biofiltration–granular activated carbon advanced water treatment for managed aquifer recharge
Authors: Hogard Samantha , Salazar‐Benites Germano , Pearce Robert , Nading Tyler , Schimmoller Larry , Wilson Christopher , Heisig‐Mitchell Jamie , Bott Charles
Published: February 2021

The Sustainable Water Initiative for Tomorrow (SWIFT) program is the effort of the Hampton Roads Sanitation District to implement indirect potable reuse to recharge the depleted Potomac Aquifer. This initiative is being demonstrated at the 1‐MGD SWIFT Research Center with a treatment train including coagulation/flocculation/sedimentation (floc/sed), ozonation, biofiltration (BAF), granular activated carbon (GAC) adsorption, and UV disinfection, followed by managed aquifer recharge. Bulk total organic carbon (TOC) removal occurred via multiple treatment barriers including, floc/sed (26% removal), ozone/BAF (30% removal), and adsorption by GAC. BAF acclimation was observed during the first months of plant operation which coincided with the establishment of biological nitrification and dissolved metal removal. Bromate formation during ozonation was efficiently controlled below 10 µg/L using preformed monochloramine and preoxidation with free chlorine. N‐nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) was formed at an average concentration of 53 ng/L post‐ozonation and was removed >70% by the BAFs after several months of operation. Contaminants of emerging concern were removed by multiple treatment barriers including oxidation, biological degradation, and adsorption. The breakthrough of these contaminants and bulk TOC will likely determine the replacement interval of GAC. The ozone/BAC/GAC treatment process was shown to meet all defined treatment goals for managed aquifer recharge.

Practitioner points

Floc/sed, biofiltration, and GAC adsorption provide important barriers in carbon‐based treatment trains for bulk TOC and trace organic contaminant removal.

Biofilter acclimation was observed during the first three months of operation in each operating period as evidenced by the establishment of nitrification.

Bromate was effectively controlled during ozonation of a high bromide water with monochloramine doses of 3–5 mg/L.

NDMA was formed at an average concentration of 53 ng/L by ozonation and complete removal was achieved by BAFs after several months of biological acclimation.

An average 25% removal of 1,4‐dioxane was achieved via oxidation by hydroxyl radicals during ozonation.
Monitoring Technoscientific Issues in the News
Authors: Cammozzo Alberto , Di Buccio Emanuele , Neresini Federico
Published: February 2021

Research at the intersection between Science and Technology Studies (STS) and Public Communication of Science and Technology (PCST) investigates the role of science in society and how it is publicly perceived. An increasing attention has been paid to coverage of Science and Technology (S&T) issues in newspapers. Because of the availability of a huge amount of digitized news contents, the variety of the issues and their dynamic nature, new opportunities are offered to carry out STS and PCST investigations. The main contribution of this paper is a methodology and a system called TIPS that was co-shaped by sociologists and computer scientists in order to monitor the coverage of S&T issues in the news and to study how they are represented. The methodology relies on machine learning, information retrieval and data analytics approaches which aim at supporting expert users, e.g. sociologists, in the investigation of their research hypotheses.
Exploring Thematic Coherence in Fake News
Authors: Dogo Martins Samuel , Deepak P.  , Jurek-Loughrey Anna
Published: February 2021

The spread of fake news remains a serious global issue; understanding and curtailing it is paramount. One way of differentiating between deceptive and truthful stories is by analyzing their coherence. This study explores the use of topic models to analyze the coherence of cross-domain news shared online. Experimental results on seven cross-domain datasets demonstrate that fake news shows a greater thematic deviation between its opening sentences and its remainder.
Media Bias in German News Articles: A Combined Approach
Authors: Spinde Timo , Hamborg Felix , Gipp Bela
Published: February 2021

Slanted news coverage, also called media bias, can heavily influence how news consumers interpret and react to the news. Models to identify and describe biases have been proposed across various scientific fields, focusing mostly on English media. In this paper, we propose a method for analyzing media bias in German media. We test different natural language processing techniques and combinations thereof. Specifically, we combine an IDF-based component, a specially created bias lexicon, and a linguistic lexicon. We also flexibly extend our lexica by the usage of word embeddings. We evaluate the system and methods in a survey (N = 46), comparing the bias words our system detected to human annotations. So far, the best component combination results in an F$$_{1}$$1score of 0.31 of words that were identified as biased by our system and our study participants. The low performance shows that the analysis of media bias is still a difficult task, but using fewer resources, we achieved the same performance on the same task than recent research on English. We summarize the next steps in improving the resources and the overall results.
Finite dimensional varieties on hypergroups
Authors: Székelyhidi László , Fechner Żywilla
Published: February 2021

Let X be a hypergroup, K its compact subhypergroup and assume that (X, K) is a Gelfand pair. Connections between finite dimensional varieties and K-polynomials on X are discussed. It is shown that a K-variety on X is finite dimensional if and only if it is spanned by finitely many K-monomials. Next, finite dimensional varieties on affine groups over $${\mathbb {R}}^d$$

R

d

, where d is a positive integer are discussed. A complete description of those varieties using partial differential equations is given.
Chemical and physical heterogeneity within native gold: implications for the design of gold particle studies
Authors: Chapman Robert John , Banks David Archibald , Styles Michael Thomas , Walshaw Richard David , Piazolo Sandra , Morgan Daniel Joseph , Grimshaw Matthew Russel , Spence-Jones Carl Peter , Matthews Thomas James , Borovinskaya Olga
Published: February 2021

Studies of populations of gold particles are becoming increasingly common; however, interpretation of compositional data may not be straightforward. Natural gold is rarely homogenous. Alloy heterogeneity is present as microfabrics formed either during primary mineralization or by modification of pre-existing alloys by chemical and physical drivers during subsequent residence in either hypogene or surficial environments. In electron-probe-microanalysis (EPMA)-based studies, the combination of Cu, Hg, and Pd values and mineral inclusion suites may be diagnostic for source style of mineralization, but Ag alone is rarely sufficient. Gold characterization studies by laser-ablation-ICP mass spectrometry linked to both quadrupole and Time-of-Flight (ToF-MS) systems show that only Ag, Cu, and Hg form homogenous alloys with Au sufficiently often to act as generic discriminants. Where present, other elements are commonly distributed highly heterogeneously at the micron or submicron scale, either as mineral inclusions or in highly localized, but low concentrations. Drawing upon our own data derived from individual inspection and analyses of approximately 40,000 gold particles from 526 placer and in situ localities worldwide, we show that adequate characterization of gold from a specific locality normally requires study of a minimum of 150 particles via a two-stage approach comprising spatial characterization of compositional heterogeneity, plus crystallographic orientation mapping, that informs subsequent targeted acquisition of quantitative compositional data by EPMA and/or laser-ablation ICP-MS methods. Such data provide the platform to review current understanding of the genesis of gold particle characteristics, elevating future compositional studies from empirical descriptions to process-focused interpretations.
Quantification and analysis of coating surface strains in T-bend tests
Authors: Sorce Fabian S. , Ngo Sonny , Lowe Chris , Taylor Ambrose C.
Published: February 2021

Pre-painted sheet metal (e.g. coil coated with polyester-melamine) undergoes large deformations when formed into architectural cladding or white goods. The coatings provide protection and superior aesthetics, so must withstand failure by cracking or delamination during forming. The T-bend test is an industry standard test used to qualitatively compare the formability of coatings and mimics the conditions experienced during hemming processes. The failure of coatings during forming is strain governed, so understanding the surface strains in the T-bend test is of great interest to manufacturers. For the first time, the maximum surface strains experienced during the T-bend test have been predicted using finite element modelling (FEM) and verified experimentally using digital image correlation. The experimental shapes of the deformed blank are compared with the FEM results for further verification. In addition, a novel analytical model is proposed to determine the maximum surface strains. It is shown that strains of up to ~ 225% are applied during a 0T test (bent around a zero thickness spacer) reducing to ~ 23% at 4T (bent around a four times sheet thickness spacer). The finite element model, experimental data and new analytical model show excellent agreement and indicate that behaviour is independent of the substrate thickness or material used. Understanding the strain behaviour quantifies the formerly qualitative T-bend. This will improve the efficacy of the test, allowing metal formers and coating developers to better understand the performance requirements, to reduce waste and to develop better coatings.

Graphical abstract
Ivy leaf (Hedera helix) for acute upper respiratory tract infections: an updated systematic review
Authors: Sierocinski Elizabeth , Holzinger Felix , Chenot Jean-François
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Acute cough due to viral upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and bronchitis is a common reason for patients to seek medical care. Non-antibiotic over-the-counter cough medications such as ivy leaf extract are frequently used but their efficacy is uncertain. Our purpose was to update our previous systematic review and evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of ivy leaf in the treatment of acute URTIs in adult and pediatric populations.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and clinical trial registries from December 2009 to January 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled clinical trials (CCTs), and observational studies (OSs) investigating ivy leaf mono- or combination preparations were included. Two independent reviewers assessed records for eligibility and risk of bias and performed data extraction.

Results

Six RCTs, 1 CCT, and 4 OSs were identified. Since the publication of our previous review, the number of RCTs has increased. All studies concluded that ivy leaf extract is an effective and safe option for the treatment of cough due to URTIs and bronchitis. Three RCTs reported a more rapid reduction in cough severity and/or frequency under ivy leaf treatment. The clinical significance of these effects appears to be minimal. No serious adverse effects were reported. The overall quality of reporting was low and the risk of bias was high.

Conclusions

Ivy leaf preparations are safe for use in cough due to acute URTIs and bronchitis. However, effects are minimal at best and of uncertain clinical importance.
Correction to: Bi‐national Review of Phaeochromocytoma Care: Is ICU Admission Always Necessary?
Authors: Papachristos Alexander J. , Cherry Tiffany J. , Nyandoro Munyaradzi G. , Lisewski Dean , Stevenson Sarah‐Jayne , Mercer Philippa , Subramaniam Suren , Sidhu Stan B. , Sywak Mark S. , Blefari Nicholas D. A. , O'Neill Christine J. , Gundara Justin S. , Miller Julie A.
Published: February 2021

In the original version of the article there were formatting errors in Table 4. Following is the corrected table.
Cosmetic Outcomes and Symmetry Comparison in Patients Undergoing Bilateral Therapeutic Mammoplasty for Breast Cancer
Authors: Gulis K. , Rydén L. , Bendahl P. O. , Svensjö T.
Published: February 2021

Background

Breast‐reduction techniques are increasingly used in oncoplastic breast surgery. Bilateral therapeutic mammoplasty has the benefit of decreasing breast volume, enabling resection of larger tumors, and the potential to assure good postoperative symmetry. The aims of this study were to objectively asses the cosmetic outcomes of therapeutic mammoplasty in patients with breast cancer, using the breast cancer conservative treatment cosmetic results (BCCT.core) software, to compare this score with the surgeon's score and the patient's assessment, and to evaluate if other defined parameters have an impact on cosmetic outcomes. The secondary aim was to compare breast symmetry pre‐ and postoperatively.

Materials and Methods

We enrolled 146 consecutive patients with primary breast cancer who underwent therapeutic mammoplasty between 2011 and 2018 in Kristianstad Central Hospital, Sweden. We retrospectively collected data from patients’ records. We analyzed the BCCT.core score using postoperative photographs to objectively evaluate cosmetic outcomes on a four‐grade scale and compared with preoperative photographs to evaluate symmetry. Cosmetic outcomes were also assessed subjectively by patients and surgeons, using a 10‐point Likert scale.

Results

The majority of patients (89%) had good or excellent BCCT.core scores, which correlated with surgeons’ scores, rs =  − 0.22 (p < 0.001). Overall, patients were more satisfied with the cosmetic outcomes than the surgeons (p < 0.001). Evidence supporting an association between the defined clinicopathological variables, for example, tumor size, and cosmetic outcomes, was weak.

Conclusion

Therapeutic mammoplasty yields a very good cosmetic outcome, evaluated both by subjective and objective measurements. Importantly, symmetry can be improved in patients with asymmetry.
Origin of Indian Ocean multidecadal climate variability: role of the North Atlantic Oscillation
Authors: Xie Tiejun , Li Jianping , Chen Kaiqi , Zhang Yazhou , Sun Cheng
Published: February 2021

The multidecadal variability of Indian Ocean sea surface temperature (IOSST) has an important impact on both the regional Indian Ocean climate and the global climate. Here, we explore multidecadal variability in the annual IOSST. Observational analysis shows that the annual IOSST multidecadal variability is not only related to the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), but also to the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). The NAO leads by 15–20 years the detrended annual IOSST in which the PDO signal of the same period has been removed. Further analysis reveals that the NAO leads the annual IOSST multidecadal variability through its leading effect on the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). The AMO affects the vertical wind anomaly in the Indian Ocean region through the Atlantic–Indian Ocean multidecadal teleconnection (AIMT), which in turn affects the net longwave radiation in the Indian Ocean region, thus driving the annual IOSST multidecadal variability. A Hasselmann model based on NAO and PDO further verify the joint influence of the NAO and PDO on the multidecadal variability of the IOSST. A PDO-based linear model and a climate model that incorporates the NAO signal are also constructed for the annual IOSST. Results show that the climate model with the NAO signal can better simulate the annual IOSST. This again verifies that the NAO is part of the annual IOSST multidecadal variability source, indicating that the annual IOSST variability may be due to the combined influences of the NAO and PDO.
A new passeriform (Aves: Passeriformes) from the early Oligocene of Poland sheds light on the beginnings of Suboscines
Authors: Bochenski Zbigniew M. , Tomek Teresa , Bujoczek Małgorzata , Salwa Grzegorz
Published: February 2021

The paper describes a complete specimen of a passerine bird from the early Oligocene of Poland, preserved as imprints of bones and feathers on two slabs. Crosnoornis nargizia gen. et sp. nov. is just the fifth passerine species described from the Paleogene worldwide and the fourth complete. The features preserved in the distal elements of the wing exclude Acanthisittidae and Oscines and indicate that this bird can be included in Suboscines, making it the second complete representative of this group in the Paleogene. A strong, straight beak indicates that this bird could feed on a variety of foods, including hard seeds, fruit and invertebrates, and, therefore, occupied a different foraging niche than the Oligocene passerines described so far. The wing proportions, a very short tail and relatively long legs indicate that this bird spent most of its time in the forest, close to the ground in dense shrubs or dense tree crowns.
Cellulose dissolution in aqueous NaOH–ZnO: cellulose reactivity and the role of ZnO
Authors: Väisänen Saija , Ajdary Rubina , Altgen Michael , Nieminen Kaarlo , Kesari Kavindra K. , Ruokolainen Janne , Rojas Orlando J. , Vuorinen Tapani
Published: February 2021

Cellulose utilization at its full potential often requires its dissolution which is challenging. Aqueous NaOH is the solvent of choice due to the rapid, non-toxic, low cost and environmentally friendly dissolution process. However, there are several limitations, such as the required low temperature and cellulose´s moderately low degree of polymerization and concentration. Moreover, there is a tendency for gelation of semidilute solutions with time and temperature. The addition of ZnO aids cellulose dissolution and hinders self-aggregation in the NaOH solution; however, the exact role of ZnO has remained as an open question. In this work, we studied cellulose dissolution in the aqueous NaOH–ZnO system as well as the reactivity of the dissolved cellulose by oxidation with 4-AcNH-TEMPO+ (TEMPO+). Based on Raman spectroscopic studies and the TEMPO+-reactivities, we propose a new structure for cellulose dissolved in aqueous NaOH–ZnO.

Graphic abstract
Micro-structure and mechanical properties of microcrystalline cellulose-sisal fiber reinforced cementitious composites developed using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide as the dispersing agent
Authors: Filho Aloysio Souza , Parveen Shama , Rana Sohel , Vanderlei Romel , Fangueiro Raul
Published: February 2021

This paper reports new hierarchical cementitious composites developed using microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), sisal fibers and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as the dispersing agent. MCC was dispersed in water without and with CTAB at different concentrations using ultrasonication and the optimum CTAB concentration for achieving homogeneous and stable MCC suspensions was found to be 40%. Hierarchical composites were fabricated using MCC (0.1–1.5 wt% of cement), sisal fibers (20 mm, 0.25% and 0.50 wt% of cement), 40% CTAB and tri-butyl phosphate as the defoaming agent. Mechanical strengths of composites improved significantly at 0.1 wt% MCC, which along with 0.5% sisal fibers improved compressive and flexural strengths by ~ 24% and ~ 18%, respectively. The hybrid reinforcement exhibited a synergistic effect on the fracture behavior of composites improving the fracture energy up to 40%. Hierarchical composites also showed improved fiber-matrix bonding, lower porosity and water absorption, superior hydration, carbonation resistance and durability up to 90 ageing cycles.
High-performance cellulosic filament fibers prepared via dry-jet wet spinning from ionic liquids
Authors: Vocht Marc P. , Beyer Ronald , Thomasic Patricija , Müller Alexandra , Ota Antje , Hermanutz Frank , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: February 2021

We report on a new process for the spinning of high-performance cellulosic fibers. For the first time, cellulose has been dissolved in the ionic liquid (IL) 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium octanoate ([C2C1im][Oc]) via a thin film evaporator in a continuous process. Compared to other ILs, [C2C1im][Oc] shows no signs of hydrolysis with water. For dope preparation the degree of polymerization of the pulp was adjusted by electron beam irradiation and determined by viscosimetry. In addition, the quality of the pulp was evaluated by means of alkali resistance. Endless filament fibers have been spun using dry-jet wet spinning and an extruder instead of a spinning pump, which significantly increases productivity. By this approach, more than 1000 m of continuous multifilament fibers have been spun. The novel approach allows for preparing cellulose fibers with high Young's modulus (33 GPa) and unprecedented high tensile strengths up to 45 cN/tex. The high performance of the obtained fibers provides a promising outlook for their application as replacement material for rayon-based tire cord fibers.
That was then, this is now: the development of our knowledge and understanding of P2 receptor subtypes
Authors: Kennedy Charles
Published: February 2021

P2 receptors are present in virtually all tissues and cell types in the human body, and they mediate the physiological and pharmacological actions of extracellular purine and pyrimidine nucleotides. They were first characterised and named by Geoff Burnstock in 1978, then subdivided into P2X and P2Y purinoceptors in 1985 on the basis of pharmacological criteria in functional studies on native receptors. Molecular cloning of receptors in the 1990s revealed P2X receptors to comprise seven different subunits that interact to produce functional homo- and heterotrimeric ligand-gated cation channels. A family of eight P2Y G protein–coupled receptors were also cloned, which can form homo- and heterodimers. Deep insight into the molecular mechanisms of agonist and antagonist action has been provided by more recent determination of the tertiary and quaternary structures of several P2X and P2Y receptor subtypes. Agonists and antagonists that are highly selective for individual subtypes are now available and some are in clinical use. This has all come about because of the intelligence, insight and drive of the force of nature that was Geoff Burnstock.
Maternal Serum Zinc Level and Pre-eclampsia Risk in African Women: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Tesfa Endalamaw , Nibret Endalkachew , Munshea Abaineh
Published: February 2021

Some studies have reported the association between maternal serum zinc (Zn) levels and pre-eclampsia. However, many studies have reported controversial results. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis was planned to generate summarized evidence on the association between maternal serum Zn levels and pre-eclampsia in African women. Four electronic databases such as PubMed, Hinari, Google Scholar, and African Journals Online were searched for studies published in English. Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument, and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale were used for data extraction and quality assessment of the included studies. The meta-regression analysis was performed by the Stata 14 software. The standardized mean difference (SMD) values of lipid profiles were computed to assess their association with pre-eclampsia at 95% CI. A total of 12 observational studies were included. The mean values of serum Zn level were significantly lower in pre-eclamptic women as compared with normotensive pregnant women (Zn = 59.40 ± 22.80 μg/dL and 80.24 ± 16.04 μg/dL), respectively. The pooled SMD of Zn was significantly reduced in pre-eclamptic women as compared with normotensive pregnant women with the SMD of −1.45 (95% CI −2.26, −0.65) at 95% CI. In this review, we found that the maternal Zn serum level was significantly reduced in pre-eclamptic women than normotensive pregnant women. This suggests that Zn could be involved in the etio-pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia. However, the specific functions of Zn in pre-eclampsia pathogenesis should be proved in large-scale clinical trial studies.
Conditions for Workplace Learning as a New First-Line Manager in Elderly Care
Authors: Wastesson Karin , Eriksson Anna Fogelberg , Nilsson Peter , Gustavsson Maria
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this article is to explore first-line managers’ experiences of workplace learning in elderly care, with a particular focus on the conditions for learning when entering a new workplace as the new manager. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 35 first-line managers from three organisations in Sweden. Four learning conditions emerged as being particularly significant for first-line managers: the managers’ previous professional experience, job-specific training, social support, and the joint repertoire of organisational arrangements. These conditions shifted in importance during the process of entering the workplace, and the way in which the conditions gave access to learning for different managers varied. The managers’ professional experience and others’ recognition of them had a considerable impact on their admittance to the new workplace. After the initial entry phase, the other three learning conditions became more significant and played a role in enabling or constraining the managers’ learning and becoming the new manager. One conclusion is that contextual and work experiences from elderly care were significant for learning during the initial phase and in order to gain access to workplace learning. Another conclusion is that high expectations and great responsibility were placed on the managers to satisfy their own learning needs. This implies that professional, social and emotional support that is received informally is just as significant for learning as formalised training for entering a new workplace as a new manager.
Enhancing Photocatalytic Performance of NH2-UIO66 by Defective Structural Engineering
Authors: Xu Zhenmin , Cao Jiazhen , Chen Xiang , Shi Liyi , Bian Zhenfeng
Published: February 2021

NH2-UIO66 (NU) is a promising photocatalyst for the reduction of Cr(VI) to low-toxic Cr(III) driven by visible light under ambient conditions. However, the main limitation in this process is the inefficient ligand to metal charge transfer (LMCT) of photo-excited electrons, which is caused by inherent energy gap (ΔELMCT). This study synthesized the defective NU (NUX-H, where X is the molar equivalent of the modulator) with reduced ΔELMCTthrough linkers removal via acid treatment. The electronic structure of NUX-H was systematically investigated, and the results indicated that the structural defects in NUX-H strongly altered the environment of the Zr atoms. Furthermore, they substantially lowered the energy of the unoccupied d orbitals (LUMO), which was beneficial to efficient LMCT, resulting in an improved photocatalytic activity of NUX-H toward high-concentration (100 mg/L) Cr(VI) reduction. Compared to NU with defect-free structure, the reducing rate of Cr(VI) was increased by 47 times. This work introduced an alternative strategy in terms of designing efficient photocatalysts for reducing Cr(VI) under ambient conditions.
Kinetic, equilibrium and thermodynamic studies of the adsorption of paracetamol in activated carbon in batch model and fixed-bed column
Authors: Haro Nathalia Krummenauer , Dávila Ivone Vanessa Jurado , Nunes Keila Guerra Pacheco , de Franco Marcela Andrea Espina , Marcilio Nilson Romeu , Féris Liliana Amaral
Published: February 2021

This work studied the removal of paracetamol through the adsorption process using the granular activated carbon. The results indicated that it was possible to obtain 95% of removal under the experimental conditions of pH 6, 120 min of process and 5 g L−1 of solid adsorbent. The kinetic model that best fit the experimental data was the pseudo-first order. The isotherm model that best fit the experimental data was the Sips. The thermodynamic tests indicated that the adsorption process was favorable and spontaneous and confirmed the endothermic nature of the process. In fixed bed column adsorption, the best operating condition found was obtained using the flow rate of 3 mL min−1 and bed mass equal to 0.5 g. In this case, the system presented the highest volume of treated PAR effluent, of 810 mL per gram of carbon in the bed, besides a longer rupture time and bed saturation.
Investigation on the thermal degradation, moisture absorption characteristics and antibacterial behavior of natural insulation materials
Authors: Ahmed Ayaz , Qayoum Adnan
Published: February 2021

The demand for natural insulation materials is increasing with special attention to the use of such materials for exploiting renewable energy. Natural insulation materials tremendously influence the sustainability development and energy efficiency enhancement in the buildings. Natural fibers from animal’s origin absorb great amount of moisture on exposed to the environment which significantly affects the performance and thermal insulation properties. The thermal degradation of such material strongly influences the accidental burning characteristics, an important selection criteria for building materials. In the present study, three different kind of natural insulation materials namely sheep wool, goat wool and horse mane have been characterized in terms of moisture absorption, thermal degradation and morphology using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry techniques, and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. In addition, antibacterial behavioral study has been also carried out for untreated raw wool and treated wool (copper nitrate). These properties are vital for a holistic evaluation of the insulation material. Moisture absorption results indicate that the sheep wool and goat wool absorb less moisture content as compared to horse mane. Unlike this horse mane shows great stability than goat wool and sheep wool in the temperature range not exceeding 470 °C. TGA data indicate 50% mass loss (T50%) at 306 °C, 322 °C and 318 °C for sheep wool, goat wool and horse mane, respectively. In addition the tests show that the content of fire retardant elements like nitrogen and sulphur is more in horse mane as compared to sheep wool and goat wool. The treated wool samples showed excellent antibacterial properties as compared to untreated wool samples.
Longwall top coal caving design for thick coal seam in very poor strength surrounding strata
Authors: Jangara H. , Ozturk C. Atilla
Published: February 2021

Alpu lignite field is an important coal deposit with nearly 2 billion tons of coal resources located in the middle of Turkey. The mine deposit consists of three main seams. The thickness of two of them vary from 4 to 30 m. The surrounding rock mass is very poor in terms of strength. The high clay content and weak rock mass make mechanized mining difficult. In this research, applicability of the longwall top coal caving method was investigated. The very weak strength behavior of the coal and the surrounding strata increases the importance of research in the mine site in terms of ground control. The aim is to design the mechanized longwall mine based on ground control principles. First of all, classification of the roof, coal, inter-burden, and floor strata were classified based on geotechnical aspects. Then, cavability index, shield, and floor bearing capacity were investigated. Different methods were applied to understand the limitations of a mechanized system that is very critical due to the very low strength strata. According to the main results, roof strata was classified as immediately caving while mining height was calculated as 5–6 m. Finally, the relations among geotechnical characterizations of roof and floor strata, cutting and caving heights, and required shield capacity were presented based on analytical and numerical applications. The proposed approach can be used as a ground control method for the applicability as well as the limitations of mechanized longwall mining design in weak strata conditions.
When Harmonization is Not Enough: Shareholder Stewardship in the European Union
Authors: Katelouzou Dionysia , Sergakis Konstantinos
Published: February 2021

On 10 June 2019 the transposition and implementation deadline for the shareholder engagement rules imposed upon institutional investors and asset managers by the revised Shareholder Rights Directive (SRD II) expired. This article offers an original account of the rationale, the dynamics and the evolution of this EU-driven policy, which aims to promote long-term institutional shareholder engagement within (or in the absence of) nationally embedded frameworks. We place the SRD II shareholder engagement rules within what we see as a multi-layered regulatory landscape consisting in some Member States of soft-law stewardship codes or similar principles and guidelines, and we find—perhaps surprisingly—that the SRD II stewardship-related provisions were transposed in a literal and minimalistic fashion without any customization to divergent national specifications and despite the fact that the SRD II is only a minimum harmonization directive. We search for explanations for this transposition pattern by pointing to three key issues: the policy and institutional misfit between the harmonized rules and national regimes, the lack of a strong market demand for shareholder stewardship, and the more apt soft, flexible and mostly bottom-up norms (contained in codes or similar principles and guidelines)—rather than (semi-)hard top-down rules—in inculcating good shareholder stewardship practices. Against this background of minimalist intervention (both at the EU and national levels), we find that pre-SRD II soft stewardship initiatives have had two key positive effects. First, they increased market actors’ familiarity and preparedness with the SRD II transposed rules, thereby increasing the likelihood of effective compliance with good shareholder stewardship standards whilst maintaining national idiosyncrasies. Second, soft-law stewardship codes or similar principles and guidelines, despite their own weaknesses, are vital mechanisms of innovative norm-generation and can expand or adjust the SRD II stewardship-related rules to provide tailored shareholder stewardship frameworks and serve as a signalling function for key market actors. From this it follows that the uniform, but minimalistic, transposition of the SRD II stewardship-related rules across the EU, although welcome in shaping the minimum standards, needs to be supported by tailored, soft-law stewardship codes or similar principles and guidelines. Such a symbiosis of the harmonized SRD II shareholder engagement rules and supporting soft-law stewardship developments will allow the tailoring of shareholder stewardship norms to local conditions and the provision of guidance and meaning to the SRD II rules, while a minimum harmonization of shareholder stewardship is already secured.
SmallSat swarm gravimetry: Revealing the interior structure of asteroids and comets
Authors: Ledbetter William Gordon , Sood Rohan , Keane James , Stuart Jeffrey
Published: February 2021

A growing interest in small body exploration has motivated research into the rapid characterization of near-Earth objects to meet economic or scientific objectives. Specifically, knowledge of the internal density structure can aid with target selection and enables an understanding of prehistoric planetary formation to be developed. To this end, multi-layer extensions to the polyhedral gravity model are suggested, and an inversion technique is implemented to present their effectiveness. On-orbit gravity gradiometry is simulated and employed in stochastic and deterministic algorithms, with results that imply robustness in both cases.
Preparation of silver nanoparticles in a high voltage AC arc in water
Authors: Jabłońska Joanna , Jankowski Krzysztof , Tomasik Mikołaj , Cykalewicz Dariusz , Uznański Paweł , Całuch Szymon , Szybowicz Mirosław , Zakrzewska Joanna , Mazurek Paweł
Published: February 2021

The article presents for the first time the synthesis of silver nanoparticles in an electric arc of high-voltage alternating current with a frequency of 50 Hz. In particular, the method and apparatus necessary for the preparation of nanoparticles in water solution is discussed. Current–voltage characteristics depending on the mutual distance between the electrodes are presented which show a very high stability of the generated discharge phenomena. The obtained nanoparticles were examined using various analytical techniques such as UV–Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, energy dispersive X-Ray analysis (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The morphology, surface and size of the obtained nanoparticles was carried out using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning TEM (STEM) equipped with the annual dark-field imaging scanning atomic-scale chemical mapping (STEM). The designed simple power supply unit consisting of an autotransformer and a microwave oven transformer (MOT) makes the preparation of silver nanoparticles both simple and economical.
Agro-climatic zone-based identification of elite Terminalia arjuna accessions concerning to arjunolic acid production
Authors: Bharti Sonu
Published: February 2021

Man has been dependent on vegetation in different forms since antiquity. Plants and trees have been used in the form of medications since the old times. Although the use of plant parts in the form of medicine has been less than that of the plants, therefore today it is necessary to explore some such medicinal trees. Among these, one of these trees is Arjun, whose bark is described also in Ayurveda due to its divine medicinal properties in heart diseases. The present study based on the isolation and analysis of the Phyto-constituents of the stem bark extract of Terminalia arjuna member to the family Combretaceae collected from different agro-climatic zones of India. The samples were subjected to quantitative phytochemical analysis i.e., arjunolic acid, screening by implementing the standard procedure. Observation has shown the presence of arjunolic acid in the stem bark extracts in different fractions obtained by the use of various organic solvents. Therefore, the bark extracts of the chosen plants may function as a good source of components of useful drugs for cardiovascular disorders and may also be used for the preparation of other pharmaceutical products.
Optimal distributed generation location and sizing for loss minimization and voltage profile optimization using ant colony algorithm
Authors: Ogunsina Adeseye Amos , Petinrin Moses Omolayo , Petinrin Olutomilayo Olayemi , Offornedo Emeka Nelson , Petinrin Joseph Olawole , Asaolu Gideon Olusola
Published: February 2021

A system of power generation whereby the generating equipment is located close to the point of usage, thereby reducing losses and operation cost is called distributed generation (DG). However, it is imperative that DGs are sited such that the quality of power delivered is optimized and the total real power loss within the system minimized. This paper proposes an approach for optimum sizing and siting of DGs sizing in a power distribution system using Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithm. To validate the algorithm the IEEE 30 bus standard test system was employed. A 92% decrease in real power loss within the system relative to the value before the connection of DGs was observed, while the minimum bus voltage increased from 0.656 per unit to 0.965 per unit. The results obtained from ACO are further verified by creating an ETAP model of the IEEE 30 bus system and simulating the impact of DG on the system. A significant reduction in total real power losses within the system and improvement in voltage profile was observed when the DGs are placed at the ACO derived sites relative to at other locations. Therefore, Ant Colony Algorithm can be used in deriving the optimum sites and sizes of DGs in a power distribution system.