bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innate immune receptors in platelets and platelet-leukocyte interactions
Authors: Dib Paula Ribeiro Braga , Quirino-Teixeira Anna Cecíllia , Merij Laura Botelho , Pinheiro Mariana Brandi Mendonça , Rozini Stephane Vicente , Andrade Fernanda Brandi , Hottz Eugenio Damaceno
Published: August 2020

Platelets are chief cells in hemostasis. Apart from their hemostatic roles, platelets are major inflammatory effector cells that can influence both innate and adaptive immune responses. Activated platelets have thromboinflammatory functions linking hemostatic and immune responses in several physiological and pathological conditions. Among many ways in which platelets exert these functions, platelet expression of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), including TLR, Nod-like receptor, and C-type lectin receptor families, plays major roles in sensing and responding to pathogen-associated or damage-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs and DAMPs, respectively). In this review, an increasing body of evidence is compiled showing the participation of platelet innate immune receptors, including PRRs, in infectious diseases, sterile inflammation, and cancer. How platelet recognition of endogenous DAMPs participates in sterile inflammatory diseases and thrombosis is discussed. In addition, platelet recognition of both PAMPs and DAMPs initiates platelet-mediated inflammation and vascular thrombosis in infectious diseases, including viral, bacterial, and parasite infections. The study also focuses on the involvement of innate immune receptors in platelet activation during cancer, and their contribution to tumor microenvironment development and metastasis. Finally, how innate immune receptors participate in platelet communication with leukocytes, modulating leukocyte-mediated inflammation and immune functions, is highlighted. These cell communication processes, including platelet-induced release of neutrophil extracellular traps, platelet Ag presentation to T-cells and platelet modulation of monocyte cytokine secretion are discussed in the context of infectious and sterile diseases of major concern in human health, including cardiovascular diseases, dengue, HIV infection, sepsis, and cancer.
Early removal of indwelling urinary catheter after radical surgery for early‐stage cervical cancer—A cohort study
Authors: Mengatto Mariana F. , Castro Beatriz G. R. , Nobrega Leandro , Vieira Marcelo A. , Andrade Carlos E. M. C. , Tsunoda Audrey T. , de Andrade Diocésio A. P. , dos Reis Ricardo
Published: August 2020

Objective

To evaluate the difference between early and delayed removal of indwelling urinary catheter after radical hysterectomy (RH) or radical trachelectomy (RT).

Methods

An ambispective study was conducted in early‐stage cervical cancer patients who underwent RH or RT. Delayed indwelling urinary catheter removal occurred on a postoperative day (POD) 7 in the retrospective group (January 2012‐November 2013), and early removal occurred on POD 1 in the prospective group (May 2014‐June 2017). The postvoid residual (PVR) test was performed after indwelling catheter removal in both groups.

Results

Our sample included 47 patients in the delayed group and 48 in the early one. There was no difference in age, body mass index, tumor size, histology, stage, surgical approach, and intraoperative and postoperative complications. Indwelling urinary catheter reinsertion was needed in 16 (34%) patients in the delayed group and 12 (25%) in the early group (P = .37), with no statistical difference between the median PVR volumes −82.5 and 45 mL (P = .06), respectively. Seven (14.9%) patients in the delayed group presented with 30‐day urinary tract infection vs two (4.2%) in the early group (P = .09).

Conclusions

Early indwelling urinary catheter removal, in regard to the rate of catheter reinsertion and PVR volume, does not differ from delayed removal.
A fractional differential quadrature method for fractional differential equations and fractional eigenvalue problems
Authors: Mohamed Salwa A.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, based on the differential quadrature method (DQM), matrix operators are derived for fractional integration and Caputo differentiation. These operators generalize the efficient DQM to fractional calculus. The proposed fractional differential/integral quadrature method (FDIQM) is used to solve various types of fractional ordinary and partial differential equations. FDIQM unifies the solution of multi‐integer fractional‐order differential equations leading to significant simplification in the implementation. Numerous examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the operators. Other examples are presented to solve various fractional differential equations including time‐fractional sub‐diffusion equation, linear/nonlinear, and multiorder fractional differential equations. In addition, numerous boundary conditions are considered including mixed fractional derivatives. Further, a nonlinear fractional eigenvalue problem is solved efficiently, and its bifurcation diagrams are obtained. Comparisons between the proposed method and the existing ones are included, showing the ease of implementation, efficiency, and applicability of FDIQM.
A cross‐sectional analysis of physical activity and weight misreporting in diverse populations: The Seattle Obesity Study III
Authors: Buszkiewicz James , Rose Chelsea , Gupta Shilpi , Ko Linda K. , Mou Jin , Moudon Anne V. , Hurvitz Philip M. , Cook Andrea , Aggarwal Anju , Drewnowski Adam
Published: August 2020

Background

In‐person assessments of physical activity (PA) and body weight can be burdensome for participants and cost prohibitive for researchers. This study examined self‐reported PA and weight accuracy and identified patterns of misreporting in a diverse sample.

Methods

King, Pierce and Yakima county residents, aged 21–59 years (n = 728), self‐reported their moderate‐to‐vigorous PA (MVPA) and weight, in kilograms. Self‐reports were compared with minutes of bout‐level MVPA, from 3 days of accelerometer data, and measured weights. Regression models examined characteristics associated with underreporting and overreporting of MVPA and weight, the potential bias introduced using each measure and the relation between perceived and measured PA and weight.

Results

MVPA underreporting was higher among males and college educated participants; however, there was no differential MVPA overreporting. Weight underreporting was higher among males, those age 40–49 years and persons with obesity. Weight overreporting was higher among Hispanic participants and those reporting stress, unhappiness and fair or poor health. The estimated PA–obesity relation was similar using measured and self‐reported PA but not self‐reported weight. Perceived PA and weight predicted measured values.

Conclusion

Self‐reported PA and weight may be useful should objective measurement be infeasible; however, though population‐specific adjustment for differential reporting should be considered.
Energy use, real output‐growth,FDI, energy‐intensity andCO2emission; the case of Kazakhstan
Authors: Wada Isah , Faizulayev Alimshan , Khademolomoom Amir Hossein , Alzubi Ahmad
Published: August 2020

The study investigates asymmetries in energy use, real output growth, FDI, energy intensity and CO2emission in Kazakhstan. The linear ARDL approach of Pesaran et al. (2001.Journal of Applied Econometrics, 16(3), 289–326) was adopted following Aslan (2014.Energy Sources,Part B:Economics,Planning,and Policy,9, 25–31) to examine the causality between energy use and real output within a simple model. Subsequently, in line with Ndoricmpa (2017.Energy,125, 543–551), the Shin et al. (2014.Festschrift in honour of Peter Schmidt. New York, NY: Springer Science & Business Media) non‐linear ARDL asymmetric specification was followed to analyse the dynamic asymmetries amongst the estimated variables—in an extended model. Annual time series data expressed in natural logarithm from 1992 to 2016 was utilized for the study. ARDL model established a long‐run relationship between energy use and real output in Kazakhstan. The modified Granger causality test confirms uni‐directional causality from real output to energy use—suggestive that energy conservation hypothesis is supported. In the estimated NARDL model, no empirical evidence exist yet‐in support of the ‘pollution haven’ hypothesis and energy‐related CO2induced emission in Kazakhstan whereas asymmetry exists in energy intensity.
Polycaprolactone‐based hotmelt adhesive for hernia‐mesh fixation
Authors: Roisman Sabrina , Dotan Ana L. , Lewitus Dan Y.
Published: August 2020

Mesh fixation during hernia repair surgery is an important factor contributing to post‐operative chronic pain. Nerve damage and parenchymal penetration caused by staples and tacks can be significantly reduced using tissue adhesives. However, the application of adhesives on a wet substrate is challenging because the presence of water leads to poor adhesion, and the control over mesh fixation and positioning during application is limited. Herein, a polymer‐based hotmelt adhesive was developed to allow mesh fixation via “on‐demand,” rapid, and precise application, along with adequate adhesive strength. The introduction of catechol 3,4‐dihydroxyhydrocinnamic acid into a polycaprolactone matrix (20% w/w) resulted in a significant reduction in the melting temperature of the polymer (from 57°C to 49°C), and high adhesive strength when used for attaching a commercial polyester‐based hernia‐mesh on fresh poultry tissue (7.1 ± 1.9 kPa). To further reduce the application temperature and improve the tissue wettability of the adhesive, amorphous poly(trimethylene carbonate‐co‐polycaprolactone) and low‐molecular‐weight polycaprolactone were blended with the adhesive via a three‐level full‐factorial design of experiment. The strength of the resulting adhesive with the optimal composition was comparable to that of a commercial cyanoacrylate adhesive, both in terms of lap shear and ball‐burst tests on fresh porcine tissue. The hotmelt adhesive represents a new approach toward hernia‐mesh fixation, potentially avoiding collateral tissue damage.
Development of pH‐responsive cyclodextrin nanoparticles for tumor‐specific photodynamic therapy
Authors: Yoon Seonyoung , Noh Gwang Jin , Youn Yu Seok , Oh Kyung Taek , Lee Eun Seong
Published: August 2020

In this study, we report pH‐responsive porous polysaccharide nanoparticles (NPs) for tumor‐specific photodynamic therapy. Herein, γ‐cyclodextrin (γCD) conjugated with 3‐(diethylamino)propylamine (DEAP, as a pH‐responsive moiety) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) was used to fabricate γCD‐(DEAP/PEG) NPs using a self‐assembling process with γCD and PEG as a hydrophilic segment and DEAP as a hydrophobic segment. These NPs contain rich pore channels, allowing for the facile encapsulation of chlorin e6 (Ce6, as a model drug) via host‐guest supramolecular interactions. Furthermore, the DEAP moieties (pKb ~ 7.0) in the γCD‐(DEAP/PEG) NPs could be protonated at weakly acidic pH (pH 6.8) in a tumor environment. This event resulted in the rapid structural destabilization of the host γCD‐(DEAP/PEG) NPs owing to the protonated DEAP moieties, thereby leading to the extensive release of the phototoxic Ce6 guest. Consequently, the Ce6‐loaded γCD‐(DEAP/PEG) NPs exhibited a significant inhibition of MDA‐MB‐231 tumor cell growth under light irradiation, demonstrating their potential as a tumor‐specific photosensitizing drug carrier.
Perception of attractive and unattractive face groups is driven by distinct spatial frequencies
Authors: Ying Haojiang , Cheng Wenxuan , Deepu Rajan Nidhi , Xu Hong
Published: August 2020

Our visual system is able to extract information on facial attractiveness from groups of faces that contain both coarse and detailed information. This raises the question: What information is extracted from a face group? Is the attractiveness perception of multiple faces driven by high or low spatial frequency that can highlight the local or global information of the faces, respectively? In the first experiment, we adapted participants to four unattractive faces with full bandwidth (FB), high spatial frequency (HSF), and low spatial frequency (LSF). We observed significant aftereffects in the HSF faces adaptation condition, which suggests that the perception of multiple unattractive faces is largely driven by HSF information. In the second experiment, we found a similar but different pattern in the direct‐rating tasks, suggesting distinct perception mechanisms in unattractive versus attractive faces. In the third experiment, both the adaptation and direct‐rating paradigms suggested that perception of multiple attractive faces is largely driven by LSF information. Overall, results from the three experiments together found that perception of multiple attractive and unattractive faces depends on visual information from different spatial frequencies, suggesting distinctive mechanisms in processing attractive and unattractive groups of faces.
A highly efficient protocol for transforming Cuscuta reflexa based on artificially induced infection sites
Authors: Lachner Lena Anna‐Maria , Galstyan Levon , Krause Kirsten
Published: August 2020

The parasitic plant genus Cuscuta is notoriously difficult to transform and to propagate or regenerate in vitro. With it being a substantial threat to many agroecosystems, techniques allowing functional analysis of gene products involved in host interaction and infection mechanisms are, however, in high demand. We set out to explore whether Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation of different plant parts can provide efficient alternatives to the currently scarce and inefficient protocols for transgene expression in Cuscuta. We used fluorescent protein genes on the T‐DNA as markers for transformation efficiency and transformation stability. As a result, we present a novel highly efficient transformation protocol for Cuscuta reflexa cells that exploits the propensity of the infection organ to take up and express transgenes with the T‐DNA. Both, Agrobacterium rhizogenes and Agrobacterium tumefaciens carrying binary transformation vectors with reporter fluorochromes yielded high numbers of transformation events. An overwhelming majority of transformed cells were observed in the cell layer below the adhesive disk’s epidermis, suggesting that these cells are particularly susceptible to infection. Cotransformation of these cells happens frequently when Agrobacterium strains carrying different constructs are applied together. Explants containing transformed tissue expressed the fluorescent markers in in vitro culture for several weeks, offering a future possibility for development of transformed cells into callus. These results are discussed with respect to the future potential of this technique and with respect to the special characteristics of the infection organ that may explain its competence to take up the foreign DNA.
Assessing competencies of healthcare professionals caring for parents with cancer: The development of an innovative assessment tool
Authors: Johannsen Lene M. , Frerichs Wiebke , Inhestern Laura , Bergelt Corinna
Published: August 2020

Objective

This paper describes the development of an assessment tool capturing competencies of healthcare professionals (HCPs) in caring for cancer patients with minor children.

Methods

We combined the methods of clinical case vignettes and situational judgement tests (SJTs). Scenarios were created based on literature and interviews with patients, HCPs, and experts. We pretested the instrument by conducting cognitive interviews with n = 6 HCPs, who gave feedback on realism, clarity, and difficulty of the scenarios.

Results

The developed assessment tool measures the following competencies: HCPs' (1) application of knowledge, (2) behavioural responses to clinical scenarios, (3) attitudes regarding the relevance of integrating the parental role in cancer care, and (4) empathic behaviour towards affected parents. Results of the cognitive interviews indicate that the scenarios are perceived as realistic and clear.

Conclusions

We provide an innovative approach by methodologically combining clinical case vignettes and SJTs. Next, the assessment tool will be applied in the context of a pilot evaluation of a newly developed training for HCPs that aims at enhancing their competencies in caring for cancer patients with minor children.
Fear of progression in parents of childhood cancer survivors: A dyadic data analysis
Authors: Peikert Mona L. , Inhestern Laura , Krauth Konstantin A. , Escherich Gabriele , Rutkowski Stefan , Kandels Daniela , Bergelt Corinna
Published: August 2020

Objective

Fear of progression (FoP), also referred to as fear of cancer recurrence, is gaining increasing interest in survivorship research as it constitutes a great burden for patients and relatives. However, only little is known about FoP in parents of childhood cancer survivors. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of FoP on quality of life (QoL) in parental couples.

Methods

We analyzed dyadic data of 197 couples parenting childhood cancer survivors (aged 0‐17 years at diagnosis of leukemia or central nervous system tumor) after the end of intensive cancer treatment. The actor‐partner interdependence model calculated by structural equation modelling was used to examine actor effects (effect of one's own FoP on one's own QoL) and partner effects (effect of one's own FoP on the partner's QoL).

Results

Eighty‐one percentage of the parents reported moderate or high FoP levels. Mothers reported higher FoP levels (p < .01) and lower overall QoL levels than fathers (p < .01). The results revealed a significantly positive intra‐dyadic correlation between FoP of mothers and fathers of the same dyad (r = .431, p < .001). We found significantly negative actor effects for both mothers and fathers for the overall QoL (p < .001) as well as for several QoL subscales. No significant partner effects were found.

Conclusions

Most parents reported elevated levels of FoP. Our results show that FoP in parents of childhood cancer survivors is strongly negatively associated with QoL. Parental FoP should therefore be explored in future research and needs to be targeted by health care providers.
From the carer's mouth: A phenomenological exploration of carer experiences with head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Halkett Georgia KB , Golding Raelee M. , Langbecker Danette , White Rohen , Jackson Melanie , Kernutt Elizabeth , O'Connor Moira
Published: August 2020

Objective

Receiving a diagnosis of head and neck cancer is devastating for patients and family carers and causes high levels of distress. Previous studies report that carer distress levels exceed that of patients, but go largely unnoticed by health professionals. To date, there is a paucity of studies that have described carers' perspectives of the lived experience of caring for a loved one diagnosed with head and neck cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of carers of patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer.

Methods

This qualitative study was informed by descriptive phenomenology. Carers of patients who had been diagnosed with head and neck cancer within the last 6 years were recruited from participating hospitals in Perth, Western Australia. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 20 carers of patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer. Thematic analysis was conducted to gain an understanding of participants lived experiences.

Results

Key themes identified were: Silent Suffering, Gamut of Emotions, Causal Attribution, Changing Priorities, Gaining Support, and Coping. The changing priorities themes highlights that carers prioritised (a) being available for their loved one and (b) taking an active role in managing head and neck cancer symptoms and side effects.

Conclusions

Carers of patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer experience distress. Instead of seeking support, carers often elected to suffer in silence. Implications for practice include screening for carer distress and providing specific interventions focused on caring for someone diagnosed with head and neck cancer.
Changes in lifestyle among prostate cancer survivors: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Bergengren Oskar , Enblad Anna Pia , Garmo Hans , Bratt Ola , Holmberg Lars , Johansson Eva , Bill‐Axelson Anna
Published: August 2020

Objective

Long‐term information on lifestyle changes among prostate survivors is lacking. In this nationwide, population‐based study we investigated the prevalence of lifestyle changes, factors associated with lifestyle changes and associations between lifestyle changes and general quality of life.

Methods

All men registered in the National Prostate Cancer Register of Sweden diagnosed in 2008 with low‐risk prostate cancer at age 70 years or younger were sent a questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals for factors potentially associated with lifestyle change.

Results

Out of 1288, 1720 men (75%) were responded. A total of 279 (22%) reported a positive lifestyle change regarding diet or exercise. Poor functional outcomes after treatment was associated with exercising less (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2‐2.1) and less interest in social activities and relationships (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.5‐2.1). Men who exercised more (OR 7.9, 95% CI 4.4‐14) and men who had an increased interest in relationships and social activities (OR 5.2, 95% CI 2.1‐13) reported higher general quality of life.

Conclusions

A considerable proportion of men reported making positive lifestyle changes after the prostate cancer diagnosis. The time after diagnosis may be a teachable moment that facilitates lifestyle interventions. Poor functional outcomes after treatment may reduce the willingness to engage in positive lifestyle change, which need be considered when supporting men after treatment. Men who made a positive lifestyle change, regardless of whether it was exercise or regarding relationships and social activities more often reported a high level of general quality of life.
High affinity interaction of Solanum tuberosum and Brassica juncea residue smoke water compounds with proteins involved in coronavirus infection
Authors: Dave Gaurav S. , Rakholiya Kalpna D. , Kaneria Mital J. , Galvadiya Bhemji P. , Vyas Sudhanshu R. , Kanbi Vaktabhai H. , Patel Manubhai P.
Published: August 2020

The world is in an immediate need of treatment for coronavirus disease (COVID‐19). Chronic exposure of hydroxychloroquine in the treatment of COVID‐19 may have multiple adverse effects on human physiology, such as cardiac arrhythmias. Natural compounds need to be evaluated as treatment and preventive agents in coronavirus infection. A total of 30 compounds of Solanum tuberosum and Brassica juncea residue smoke water were selected for the virtual screening against SARS‐CoV‐1, SARS‐CoV‐2 and cellular proteins involved in the mechanism of infection. Docking analysis identified lead molecules with favorable binding energy, number of poses and hydrogen bond interactions, which indicates the effective modulation of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 receptors. Results indicated (a) curcumenol, (b) N‐desmethylselegiline, (c) phentermine and (d) sphingolipid derivatives as a selective and potent candidates in comparison to hydroxychloroquine for COVID‐19 treatment. Our in silico findings, therefore, warrant further in vitro validations of the selected compounds for the discovery of novel preventive and therapeutic drug against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Drugs against SARS‐CoV‐2: What do we know about their mode of action?
Authors: Valle Coralie , Martin Baptiste , Touret Franck , Shannon Ashleigh , Canard Bruno , Guillemot Jean‐Claude , Coutard Bruno , Decroly Etienne
Published: August 2020

The health emergency caused by the recent Covid‐19 pandemic highlights the need to identify effective treatments against the virus causing this disease (SARS‐CoV‐2). The first clinical trials have been testing repurposed drugs that show promising anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 effects in cultured cells. Although more than 2400 clinical trials are already under way, the actual number of tested compounds is still limited to approximately 20, alone or in combination. In addition, knowledge on their mode of action (MoA) is currently insufficient. Their first results reveal some inconsistencies and contradictory results and suggest that cohort size and quality of the control arm are two key issues for obtaining rigorous and conclusive results. Moreover, the observed discrepancies might also result from differences in the clinical inclusion criteria, including the possibility of early treatment that may be essential for therapy efficacy in patients with Covid‐19. Importantly, efforts should also be made to test new compounds with a documented MoA against SARS‐CoV‐2 in clinical trials. Successful treatment will probably be based on multitherapies with antiviral compounds that target different steps of the virus life cycle. Moreover, a multidisciplinary approach that combines artificial intelligence, compound docking, and robust in vitro and in vivo assays will accelerate the development of new antiviral molecules. Finally, large retrospective studies on hospitalized patients are needed to evaluate the different treatments with robust statistical tools and to identify the best treatment for each Covid‐19 stage. This review describes different candidate antiviral strategies for Covid‐19, by focusing on their mechanism of action.
Unveiling the chromatic palette used for mural paintings in a recently discovered Ptolemaic‐era tomb (Sohag, Upper Egypt): A multitechnique surface investigation
Authors: Marey Mahmoud Hussein , Abo El‐Yamin Ahmed
Published: August 2020

In 2019, an exceptional Ptolemaic‐era tomb was discovered in Al‐Diabat archaeological site, Sohag, Upper Egypt. Numerous fallen painted fragments in the floor of tomb were collected and studied. The microstructural and chemical makeup of samples was discerned by virtue of a field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) with an energy‐dispersive x‐ray (EDX) spectrometry. Further, the molecular‐vibrational property was acknowledged by Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) and micro‐Raman (μ‐Raman) spectrometers. Also, the crystalline structure of stone and plaster samples was defined by x‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The results have demonstrated that the murals were implemented on a thick mud plaster followed by a thin preparation layer, which, unusually, was made of calcite. Gypsum was also detected in variable quantity throughout the render samples. Colouring substances of Egyptian blue, green earth, red ochre, yellow ochre and carbon black were recognized in the studied murals. Besides, maghemite (γFe2O3) was disclosed in the red pigment sample. Unexpectedly, gold was detected in the yellow paint areas, possibly associated with a religious tradition. As well, the recognition of an organic binder (probably egg yolk) nominates the application of tempera technique. Noteworthy, this research contributes in presenting significant findings on painting materials used in unusual rock‐cut tomb from the Ptolemaic era.
Evolution of Nonmetallic Inclusions with Varied Argon Stirring Condition during Vacuum Degassing Refining of a Bearing Steel
Authors: Cheng Gong , Zhang Lifeng , Ren Ying , Yang Wen , Zhao Xiaolei , Wang Guocheng
Published: August 2020

In the current study, industrial trials are performed to investigate the effect of argon stirring conditions on nonmetallic inclusions of a bearing steel during vacuum degassing (VD). Three argon stirring modes, including strong stirring, moderate stirring, and weak stirring during the last 10 min of the high‐vacuum period, are compared. The removal fraction of >1 μm inclusions and >5 μm inclusions is the highest with the moderate stirring mode, reaching 15.7% and 42.2%, respectively. Inclusions of MgO·Al2O3are easier to remove than CaO–Al2O3and entrained CaO–Al2O3–SiO2ones as MgO·Al2O3inclusions have a higher coagulation coefficient, a higher contact angle, and a lower adhesion work between the inclusion and the molten steel. Meanwhile, the removal efficiency of inclusions in the bearing steel is in the order of Al2O3 > MgO·Al2O3 > solid CaO–Al2O3 > liquid CaO–Al2O3and entrained CaO–Al2O3–SiO2. Liquid CaO–Al2O3inclusions with >5 μm size originate from slag entrainment and can be efficiently removed from the molten steel by the moderate stirring mode.
Biaxiales Tragverhalten von Gewebemembranen nach DIN EN 17117‐1
Authors: Uhlemann Jörg , Stranghöner Natalie
Published: August 2020

Mit DIN EN 17117‐1 liegt seit etwa einem Jahr erstmals eine europäische Norm zur Durchführung und Auswertung von biaxialen Zugversuchen an beschichteten Textilien vor, wie sie im Membranbau Anwendung finden. Der vorliegende Beitrag bietet eine Vorstellung, Analyse und Bewertung der neuen Regelungen. Besondere Neuerungen gegenüber der bisherigen Versuchspraxis wie Regelungen zur Probekörpergeometrie, zum Lastprotokoll und der Belastungsgeschwindigkeit werden erläutert und bewertet. Der Beitrag zeigt den Unterschied zwischen elastischen Bemessungs‐ und Vergleichskonstanten und zeigt beispielhaft deren Anwendung und Interpretation.
Spiele im Schatten
Authors: Göppert Knut , Paech Christoph
Published: August 2020

Wandelbare Leichtbaukonstruktionen mit Membranen erfreuen sich immer größerer Beliebtheit. Durch eine adaptive Gebäudehülle steigt die Funktionalität des Gebäudes und innerhalb von Minuten kann z. B. ein Sportstadion in eine Mehrzweckarena umgewandelt werden. Im Mai 2019 wurde das Al‐Janoub‐Stadion in Katar eröffnet. Mit seinem 10 800 m2 großen wandelbaren Membrandach ist es ein Meilenstein in der modernen Stadionarchitektur. Dabei wurde das innovative Konzept des wandelbaren Innendachs optimal in das Erscheinungsbild der Gesamtarchitektur integriert. Innerhalb von 30 Minuten ist das wandelbare Membrandach verfahrbar, sodass der gesamte Stadioninnenraum verschattet ist. Die Möglichkeit der Verschattung ist in einem Gebiet mit starker Sonneneinstrahlung essenziell. Ein wandelbares Membrandach hilft dabei, selbst unter extremen Bedingungen die Temperaturen zu reduzieren und den Nutzerkomfort zu gewährleisten.
Lunar Dome
Authors: Stimpfle Bernd
Published: August 2020

Im Jahre 1969 brachte Apollo 11 die ersten Menschen auf den Mond. Anlässlich des 50‐jährigen Jubiläums wurde eine Roadshow konzipiert, die durch mehrere Städte der Vereinigten Staaten von Amerika reisen sollte. Hierfür wurde ein großes mobiles Theaterzelt mit 1 600 Sitzplätzen entwickelt. Als fliegender Bau besteht dieses Zelt aus Einzelelementen, die auf schnellen Aufbau und leichten Transport optimiert sind. Eine bogengestützte Hauptmembrane, eine elastisch gelagerte Projektionskuppel und eine große ETFE‐Fassade bilden die verschiedenen Hüllen und nehmen dem Projekt den Zeltcharakter. Anpassbare Fußelemente, verankert mit langen Erdnägeln, dienen als flexible Gründung für die verschiedenen Aufstellorte. Im Sommer 2019 stand das temporäre Theater für „Apollo 11 – the immersive live show“ in Pasadena, Kalifornien.
Wärmetransport und andere bauphysikalische Aspekte im Membranbau
Authors: Liebhart Heiko , Cremers Jan , Mirbach David , Marx Hannes
Published: August 2020

Der vorliegende Artikel gibt einen Überblick über einige laufende und abgeschlossene Forschungsprojekte auf dem Gebiet des Membranbaus an der Hochschule für Technik (HFT) Stuttgart. Eine zentrale Herausforderung im Membranbau ist die Beeinflussung des radiativen Wärmeeintrags bzw. des Wärmeverlustes durch die Gebäudehülle zur energieeffizienten Gewährleistung einer komfortablen Raumtemperierung für die Nutzer ohne nennenswerte Beeinträchtigung der Tageslichtqualität. An der HFT wurde diese Fragestellung mit unterschiedlichen Ansätzen im Rahmen mehrerer Forschungsprojekte messtechnisch und numerisch behandelt. Im Projekt SoFt wurde die Vereinbarkeit von Dämmwirkung und Lichtdurchlässigkeit untersucht und mit der Dachkonstruktion einer Sporthalle realisiert. Im Rahmen des Projekts FMESG wurde eine statische, winkelselektive Verschattungseinheit nach dem Vorbild eines Sheddachs entworfen, numerisch untersucht und bis zum Prototypenstadium entwickelt. Der Einfluss von Oberflächenbeschichtung niedriger Emissivität auf die Wärmeströme durch ETFE‐Gebäudehüllenelemente wurde im Projekt Follow‐e2 adressiert und mit den Mitteln der dynamischen Gebäudesimulation numerisch untersucht. Das Potenzial zur Reduzierung des Energiebedarfs von Gebäuden durch dynamische Verschattung mittels elektrochromer Elemente wurde im Projekt FLEX‐G mit den Mitteln numerischer Gebäudesimulation und heuristischer Optimierungsverfahren untersucht.
Natural products present neurotrophic properties in neurons of the limbic system in aging rodents
Authors: Flores Gonzalo , Flores‐Gómez Gabriel Daniel , Díaz Alfonso , Penagos‐Corzo Julio César , Iannitti Tommaso , Morales‐Medina Julio César
Published: August 2020

Aging is a complex process that can lead to neurodegeneration and, consequently, several pathologies, including dementia. Physiological aging leads to changes in several body organs, including those of the central nervous system (CNS). Morphological changes in the CNS and particularly the brain result in motor and cognitive deficits affecting learning and memory and the circadian cycle. Characterizing neural modifications is critical to designing new therapies to target aging and associated pathologies. In this review, we compared aging to the changes occurring within the brain and particularly the limbic system. Then, we focused on key natural compounds, apamin, cerebrolysin, Curcuma longa, resveratrol, and N‐PEP‐12, which have shown neurotrophic effects particularly in the limbic system. Finally, we drew our conclusions delineating future perspectives for the development of novel natural therapeutics to ameliorate aging‐related processes.
Total coliform and Escherichia coli in microplastic biofilms grown in wastewater and inactivation by peracetic acid
Authors: Boni William , Parrish Kathleen , Patil Shreya , Fahrenfeld Nicole L.
Published: August 2020

Microplastics (MP) have been proposed as a vector for pathogenic microorganisms in the freshwater environment. The objectives of this study were (a) to compare the fecal indicator growth in biofilms on MP and material control microparticles incubated in different wastewater fractions and (b) to compare MP biofilm, natural microparticle biofilm, and planktonic cell susceptibility to disinfection by peracetic acid (PAA). Biofilms were grown on high‐density polyethylene, low‐density polyethylene, polypropylene MP, or wood chips (as a material control) and incubated in either wastewater influent or pre‐disinfection secondary effluent. Reactors were disinfected with PAA, biofilms were dislodged, and total coliform and Escherichia coli were cultivated. Fecal indicators were quantifiable in both MP and wood biofilms incubated in the wastewater influent but only on the wood biofilms incubated in secondary wastewater effluent. More total coliform grew in the wood biofilms than MP biofilms, and the biofilms grown on MP and woodchips were more resistant to disinfection than planktonic bacteria. Thus, it may be possible to refer to the disinfection literature for fecal indicators in biofilm on other particles to predict behavior on MP. Treatments that remove particles in general would help reduce the potential for fecal indicator bypass of disinfection.

Practitioner points

MP biofilm had lower concentrations of fecal indicators than wood biofilm

Biofilm on MP was not more resistant to disinfection than wood biofilm

Biofilms, regardless of substrate, were more resistant to disinfection than planktonic organisms
Direct multielement determination of Cd, Pb, Fe, and Mn in ground coffee samples using energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry
Authors: Almeida Jorge S. , Meira Lucilia A. , Oliveira Maiara S. , Teixeira Leonardo S. G.
Published: August 2020

An analytical method was proposed for the quantification of Cd, Pb, Mn, and Fe in ground coffee samples using energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry. External calibration was possible using the coffee matrix itself as standards with samples previously analyzed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). The ground coffee samples were analyzed in the form of pellets, which were placed in the center of the EDXRF measuring cell for the determination of the analytes. The limits of detection were 62, 55, 86, and 76 μg/kg for Cd, Pb, Fe, and Mn, respectively. Good linearities were obtained for the calibration curves with coefficients of correlation (R) of 0.9959 for Cd, 0.9939 for Pb, 0.9929 for Fe, and 0.9909 for Mn. Precision, evaluated as the relative standard deviation (RSD) of 10 independent measurements of different cataloged samples with an approximate concentration of 400 μg/kg for each analyte, was between 6 and 14% (n = 10), demonstrating that the preparation of the samples in form of pellets was sufficient to perform analyses by EDXRF. The proposed method was applied in the determination of Cd, Pb, Fe, and Mn in ground coffee samples collected in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. In a parallel comparative procedure, coffee samples were also analyzed by ICP OES after sample pretreatment by acid digestion. A paired Student's t test was carried out (confidence level of 95%, n = 5) and no significant difference was observed between the concentrations obtained by the proposed and comparative methods.
Muslim NGOs, Zakat and the Provision of Social Welfare in Sub-Saharan Africa: An Introduction
Authors: Weiss Holger
Published: August 2020

This chapter outlines the articulations and actions of Muslim NGOs with a special focus on their instrumentalization of Islamic social finance instruments, namely sadaqa or voluntary almsgiving and donations and zakat or mandatory almsgiving in contemporary sub-Saharan Africa. Zakat constitutes a form of vertical philanthropy in all cases above as it is formal, structuralized and institutionalized. Sadaqa, in turn, corresponds to horizontal philanthropy as it is organized through private, personalized and informal ways, commonly through self-help groups or mosque funds. However, there has been an expansion of vertical forms of philanthropy during the last decade due to the establishment of private foundations, trusts and corporate foundations by High Net-Worth Individuals or ‘Muslim entrepreneurs’ as well as community chests and foundations in many sub-Saharan countries. Various studies estimate that zakat amounts from USD 200 billion to USD 1 trillion per annum across the world or around USD 187 million among countries in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Therefore, not only Muslim states but also Muslim NGOs have turned their interest to mobilize zakat for poverty alleviation in Muslim majority countries as well as for international development and humanitarian projects.
Stabilised Hybrid Discontinuous Galerkin Methods for the Stokes Problem with Non-standard Boundary Conditions
Authors: Barrenechea Gabriel R. , Bosy Michał , Dolean Victorita
Published: August 2020

In several studies it has been observed that, when using stabilised
$$\mathbb {P}_k^{}\times \mathbb {P}_k^{}$$

ℙ

k

×

ℙ

k

elements for both velocity and pressure, the error for the pressure is smaller, or even of a higher order in some cases, than the one obtained when using inf-sup stable
$$\mathbb {P}_k^{}\times \mathbb {P}_{k-1}^{}$$

ℙ

k

×

ℙ

k
−
1

(although no formal proof of either of these facts has been given). This increase in polynomial order requires the introduction of stabilising terms, since the finite element pairs used do not guarantee the inf-sup condition. With this motivation, we apply the stabilisation approach to the hybrid discontinuous Galerkin discretisation for the Stokes problem with non-standard boundary conditions.
RBF Based CWENO Method
Authors: Hesthaven Jan S. , Mönkeberg Fabian , Zaninelli Sara
Published: August 2020

Solving hyperbolic conservation laws on general grids can be important to reduce the computational complexity and increase accuracy in many applications. However, the use of non-uniform grids can introduce challenges when using high-order methods. We propose to use a Central WENO (CWENO) scheme based on radial basis function (RBF) interpolation, which is applicable to scattered data. We develop a smoothness indicator, based on RBFs, and CWENO specific weights which depend on the mesh size of the grid to construct an arbitrarily high order RBF-CWENO method. We evaluate the method with multiple examples in one dimension.
A Conservative Hybrid Method for Darcy Flow
Authors: Jain Varun , Fisser Joël , Palha Artur , Gerritsma Marc
Published: August 2020

We present a hybrid mimetic spectral element formulation for Darcy flow. The discrete representations for (1) conservation of mass, and (2) inter-element continuity, are topological relations that lead to sparse matrix systems. These constraints are independent of the element size and shape, and thus invariant under mesh transformations. The resultant algebraic system is extremely sparse even for high degree polynomial basis. Furthermore, the system can be efficiently assembled and solved for each element separately.
High-Order Mesh Generation Based on Optimal Affine Combinations of Nodal Positions
Authors: Stees Mike , Shontz Suzanne M.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we propose a new optimization-based method for high-order mesh generation. Our proposed method is based on affine combinations of nodal positions. For each interior node in the high-order straight-sided mesh, a set of weights that relates the node to its neighbors is calculated. After the high-order boundary nodes are curved to conform with the true boundary, the interior nodes are moved based on the generated weights and the new boundary positions. We present results from applying our method to several aerospace engineering geometries in 2D and 3D which demonstrate the capabilities of our method.
Sparse Spectral-Element Methods for the Helically Reduced Einstein Equations
Authors: Lau Stephen R.
Published: August 2020

We describe ongoing work towards construction—via multidomain, modal, spectral methods—of helically symmetric spacetimes representing binary neutron stars. Adopting “particle” models, we focus here on solution of the helically reduced Einstein equations. These models allow us to remove the complication of a stellar fluid. However, the choice of inner boundary conditions for these models is also a stubborn issue. We examine this issue and its effect on the “harmonic gauge”.
On the Order Reduction of Entropy Stable DGSEM for the Compressible Euler Equations
Authors: Hindenlang Florian J. , Gassner Gregor J.
Published: August 2020

Is the experimental order of convergence lower when using the entropy stable DGSEM-LGL variant? Recently, a debate on the question of the convergence behavior of the entropy stable nodal collocation discontinuous Galerkin spectral element method (DGSEM) with Legendre-Gauss-Lobatto nodes has emerged. Whereas it is well documented that the entropy conservative variant with no additional interface dissipation shows an odd-even behavior when testing its experimental convergence order, the results in the literature are less clear regarding the entropy stable version of the DGSEM-LGL, where explicit Riemann solver type dissipation is added at the element interfaces. We contribute to the ongoing discussion and present numerical experiments for the compressible Euler equations, where we investigate the effect of the choice of the numerical surface flux function. In our experiments, it turns out that the choice of the numerical surface flux has an impact on the convergence order. Penalty type numerical fluxes with high dissipation in all waves, such as the LLF and the HLL flux, appear to affect the convergence order negatively for odd polynomial degrees N, in contrast to the entropy conserving variant, where even polynomial degrees N are negatively affected. This behavior is more pronounced in low Mach number settings. In contrast, for numerical surface fluxes with less dissipative behavior in the contact wave such as e.g. Roe’s flux, the HLLC flux and the entropy conservative flux augmented with 5-wave matrix dissipation, optimal convergence rate of N + 1 independent of the Mach number is observed.
Two Decades Old Entropy Stable Method for the Euler Equations Revisited
Authors: Sjögreen Björn , Yee H. C.
Published: August 2020

The objective of this paper is to prove for the first time that the entropy split scheme of Olsson and Oliger (Energy and maximum norm estimates for nonlinear conservation laws. RIACS Technical Report 94.01, 1994; Gerritsen and Olsson, J Comput Phys 129:245–262, 1996; Yee et al., J Comput Phys 162:33–81, 2000) is the recent definition of an entropy stable method for central differencing with SBP operators for both periodic and non-periodic boundary conditions for nonlinear Euler equations. The proof is to replace the spatial derivatives by summation-by-parts (SBP) difference operators in the entropy split form of the equations using the physical entropy of the Euler equations. The numerical boundary closure follows directly from the SBP operator. No additional numerical boundary procedure is required. In contrast, Tadmor-type entropy conserving schemes Tadmor (Acta Numer 12:451–512, 2003) using mathematical entropies do not naturally come with a numerical boundary closure and a generalized SBP operator has to be developed Roanocha (J Comput Phys 362:20–48, 2018).
A Mimetic Spectral Element Method for Free Surface Flows
Authors: Nielsen L. , Gervang B.
Published: August 2020

We derive a compatible high order discretization method that relies heavily on the underlying geometric structure and obeys the topological sequences for 2D free surface flows with fully submerged structures. The flow is assumed inviscid and irrotational. This allows us to write the continuity and Navier–Stokes equations using a velocity potential as a Laplace equation and the differential form of the unsteady Bernoulli’s equation. We use a mixed variational formulation and results confirm the theoretical results that we obtain global and local divergence free solutions.
Spectral/hp Methodology Study for iLES-SVV on an Ahmed Body
Authors: Buscariolo Filipe F. , Sherwin Spencer J. , Assi Gustavo R. S. , Meneghini Julio R.
Published: August 2020

The Ahmed Body is one of the most widely studied bluff bodies used for automotive conceptual studies and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software validation. With the advances of the computational processing capacity and improvement in computing costs, high-fidelity turbulence models, such as Detached Eddies Simulation (DES) and Large Eddies Simulation (LES), are becoming a reality for industrial cases, as studied by Buscariolo et al. (Analysis of turbulence models applied to CFD drag simulations of a small hatchback vehicle. SAE Paper 2016-36-0201, Society of Automotive Engineers, 2016), evaluating DES models to automotive applications.
An Explicit Mapped Tent Pitching Scheme for Maxwell Equations
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Jay , Hochsteger Matthias , Schöberl Joachim , Wintersteiger Christoph
Published: August 2020

We present a new numerical method for solving time dependent Maxwell equations, which is also suitable for general linear hyperbolic equations. It is based on an unstructured partitioning of the spacetime domain into tent-shaped regions that respect causality. Provided that an approximate solution is available at the tent bottom, the equation can be locally evolved up to the top of the tent. By mapping tents to a domain which is a tensor product of a spatial domain with a time interval, it is possible to construct a fully explicit scheme that advances the solution through unstructured meshes. This work highlights a difficulty that arises when standard explicit Runge Kutta schemes are used in this context and proposes an alternative structure-aware Taylor time-stepping technique. Thus explicit methods are constructed that allow variable time steps and local refinements without compromising high order accuracy in space and time. These Mapped Tent Pitching (MTP) schemes lead to highly parallel algorithms, which utilize modern computer architectures extremely well.