bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can we associate environmental footprints with production and consumption using Monte Carlo simulation? Case study with pork meat
Authors: Djekic Ilija , Bozickovic Ivana , Djordjevic Vesna , Smetana Sergiy , Terjung Nino , Ilic Jovan , Doroski Ana , Tomasevic Igor
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Growing population demands more animal protein products. Pork remains one of the traditional and relatively sustainable types of meats for human consumption. In this paper, life‐cycle assessment was performed using data from 12 pig farms. In parallel, a survey on the consumption of pork meat products was conducted analyzing responses from 806 pork meat consumers. The study aims to provide a quantitative calculation of six environmental footprints associated with the consumption of pork meat products in Serbia by analyzing data from pig farms and a pork meat consumption survey.

RESULTS

Results revealed that pork meat production is responsible for the emission of 3.50 kg CO2e kg−1 live weight, 16.1 MJe kg−1, 0.151 mg R11e kg−1, 31.257 g SO2e kg−1, 55.030 g PO4e kg−1 and 3.641 kg 1.4 dBe kg−1. Further calculations reveal that weekly emissions of various environmental potentials associated with an average consumer of pork meat products in Serbia are estimated at values of 4.032 kg CO2e week−1, 18.504 MJe week−1, 0.17435 mg R11e week−1, 35.972 g SO2e week−1 and 63.466 g PO4e week−1.

CONCLUSIONS

Results show that, on the one hand, pork products are responsible for environmental production impacts that mainly occur on farms while, on the other hand, consumption is characterized with high meat inclusion rates. As a leverage strategy it is recommended for producers to concentrate on lowering the production impacts rather than trying to reach consumers for sustainability conciseness. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Mechanism of the oscillating chemiluminescence reaction in the luminol‐H2O2‐KSCN‐CuSO4‐NaOH system
Authors: Toki Erika , Osaki Shiori , Nakamura Misato , Tsuoka Kazuki , Samejima Nobutoshi , Nakashima Tetsuto , Abe Rin , Oyama Takahiro , Tsukiyama Koichi
Published: August 2020

We conducted a simultaneous measurement of the potential of Cu2+, oxidation‐reduction potential (ORP), and the chemiluminescence intensity in the luminol‐H2O2‐KSCN‐CuSO4‐NaOH system. Two types of chemiluminescence were identified: a very faint continuous chemiluminescence and a strong oscillating chemiluminescence. The correlation between the potential of Cu2+ and ORP was measured experimentally for the first time. The effect of the initial concentrations of Cu2+ and H2O2 on the overall chemiluminescence intensity and the oscillation frequency was investigated in detail. Time‐dependent concentration variation of the chemical species existing in the reaction system was calculated using a Runge‐Kutta method. Two elementary chemical reactions not considered previously were taken into consideration. The overall experimental behavior was well explainable with our simulation. Based upon the comparison of our simulation with the experiment, we proposed that the strong oscillating chemiluminescence was induced by the reaction of luminol with ·OS(O)CN.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein‐2‐Activated 3D‐Printed Polylactic Acid Scaffolds to Promote Bone Regrowth and Repair
Authors: Yao Chun‐Hsu , Lai Yi‐Hui , Chen Yi‐Wen , Cheng Cheng‐Hsin
Published: August 2020

Uneven distribution of pores, lack of connection between holes, low reproducibility, insufficient mechanical strength, and incomplete volatility of organic solvents are some problems associated with traditional tissue engineering methods for bone defect repair. These characteristics reduce the quality and stability of products. This study uses 3D printing (3DP) to fabricate a biocompatible poly(lactic) acid‐based scaffold for repairing bone tissue. Hence, three different types of scaffolds are assessed: a freeze‐dried polylactic acid (PLA) scaffold constructed using the traditional freeze‐extraction method; a 3D‐PLA scaffold produced through the 3DP technique; and a 3D‐PLA–bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) scaffold that is prepared using 3DP technology, with the addition of BMP‐2. To enhance biological activity, polydopamine (pDA) is used to graft BMP‐2 on the surface of the 3D‐PLA–BMP‐2 scaffold. Then, the scaffolds are implanted into the bilateral femoral condyles of rabbits, and their ability to repair the bone tissue defects is tested. The results of the experiments reveal that the 3DP scaffolds are more biocompatible than the ones produced through the traditional manufacturing methods because they enhance cell adhesion and differentiation after pDA modification and BMP‐2 fixation. In the future, the 3DP products may be applied for the repair of larger bone defects in the clinical setting.
Recognition of healthy and cancerous breast cells: Sensing the differences by dielectric spectroscopy
Authors: Ambrico M. , Lasalvia M. , Ligonzo T. , Ambrico P. F. , Perna G. , Capozzi V.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The response of human cells to applied electrical signals depends on the cellular health status, because it is influenced by the composition and structure of the main cellular components. Therefore, electrical impedance‐based techniques can be considered as sensitive tools to investigate healthy or disease state at cellular level. The goal of this study is to show that different types of in vitro cellular lines, related to different health status, can be differentiated using impedance spectra analysis.

Methods

Three different types of human breast cell line, corresponding to healthy, cancerous, and metastatic adenocarcinoma cells, were measured by means of electrical impedance spectroscopy. By modeling the investigated cells with proper resistive and capacitive circuital elements, the magnitude of the cell electrical components and spectra of real and imaginary part of dielectric permittivity were obtained. The latter were subsequently examined with a commonly adopted mathematical model, in order to estimate the values of specific dielectric parameters for the three different cellular lines.

Results

The relative variation of cellular capacitance with respect to that of the culture medium, estimated at 100 Hz, has a larger value for the two types of cancerous cells with respect to the noncancerous type. Furthermore, the ratio between the real and imaginary part of the dielectric permittivity function has larger values for metastatic cells with respect to the normal and nonmetastatic ones. Therefore, the mentioned relative capacitance allows to discriminate between normal and cancerous cells, whereas the results obtained for the dielectric function can discriminate between metastatic and nonmetastatic cells.

Conclusions

This study can be considered as an exploratory investigation of evaluating in vitro the health status of humans cells using selected electrical impedance parameters as potential markers. The obtained results highlight that a standard cultureware system, provided with interdigitated electrodes and appropriate impedance parameters, that is, cellular capacitance and the ratio between the imaginary and real part of cellular dielectric function, can be used to discriminate between healthy and cancerous breast cell lines, as well as different malignancy degrees.
An information‐based comparison of diffusion attenuation models in normal and inflamed bone marrow
Authors: Bray Timothy J.P. , Bainbridge Alan , Sakai Naomi S. , Hall‐Craggs Margaret A. , Zhang Hui
Published: August 2020

Diffusion‐weighted imaging has received attention as a method for characterizing inflammatory exudates in bone marrow in immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases and reveals an increase in diffusivity in regions of bone marrow oedema. Various models of diffusion attenuation have been investigated but the model providing the best description of tissue pathophysiology in regions of marrow oedema is unknown. Determining the most appropriate model is an important step towards protocol optimization and the development of a robust and clinically useful method.

We aimed to determine which of three candidate models of diffusion attenuation most accurately describes the acquired signal from normal and inflamed bone marrow. 11 subjects with spondyloarthritis and evidence of active inflammation (ie bone marrow oedema) on MRI and 17 patients with no evidence of active inflammation underwent diffusion‐weighted imaging of the sacroiliac joints (b‐values 0, 50, 100, 300 and 600 s/mm2). Monoexponential, intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) and kurtosis models were fitted to the acquired signal from regions of interest in areas of bone marrow oedema and normal marrow. The three models were compared in terms of sum of squared error and information content (corrected Akaike information criterion). Model parameters were compared between regions of bone marrow oedema and regions of normal marrow. f the three models investigated, the IVIM model provided the best description of the signal over the 0‐600 s/mm2 range across normal and inflamed bone marrow. There was a particular advantage of the IVIM model in normal marrow, where it was best able to capture the pronounced fast diffusion component observed in several cases. However, IVIM and kurtosis effects both became smaller and the signal behaviour became closer to monoexponential in the presence of bone marrow oedema. Our data suggest that increases in Dtissue (in the IVIM framework) might account for the reduced deviation from monoexponential behaviour in oedematous bone.
BMI is Associated with Coronavirus Disease 2019 Intensive Care Unit Admission in African Americans
Authors: Alkhatib Ala L. , Kreniske Jonah , Zifodya Jerry S. , Fonseca Vivian , Tahboub Mohammad , Khatib Joanna , Denson Joshua L. , Lasky Joseph A. , Lefante John J. , Bojanowski Christine M.
Published: August 2020

Objective

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has disproportionately impacted the African American community. This study aims to identify the risk factors for severe COVID‐19 disease in African American patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross‐sectional analysis of African American patients with COVID‐19 treated between March 12 and April 9, 2020, at a single tertiary center. The primary outcome of interest was severe disease defined as those requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission.

Results

The study included 158 consecutive patients. The mean age was 57 years, and 61% were women. The mean (SD) of BMI was 33.2 (8.6) kg/m2. Overall, patients admitted to the ICU were older (62 vs. 55 years, P = 0.003) and had higher BMI (36.5 kg/m2 vs. 31.9 kg/m2, P = 0.002). In unadjusted and adjusted analysis, the factors most associated with ICU admission in this sample were age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.073; 95% CI: 1.033‐1.114), BMI (aOR: 1.115; 95% CI: 1.052‐1.182), and lung disease (aOR: 3.097; 95% CI: 1.137‐8.437).

Conclusions

This study identified risk factors for severe disease in COVID‐19, specifically in an African American population. Further inclusive research aimed at optimizing clinical care relevant to the African American population is critical to ensure an equitable response to COVID‐19.
Synthesis of ultra‐high concentration of salt‐resistant polyacrylamide
Authors: Zhao Tianhong , Peng Jie , Zhang Yiwen , Chen Jiawei , Chen Ying , Sun Wushan , Li Sijia
Published: August 2020

Glucose, an environmentally friendly and renewable material, is modified differently in various fields. In the petrochemical industry, water‐soluble polymer with salt resistance plays an important role in the production in high‐salinity reservoirs. In this work, N,N‐dimethyl ethanolamine was reacted with glucose to synthesis a polymerizable monomer Gf (N,N‐dimethylaminoethylglucoside). Gf was polymerized with acrylamide in aqueous solution to obtain copolymer glucose modified polyacrylamide. The copolymer was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H‐NMRspectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The temperature resistance, salt resistance, and shear resistance of the copolymer solution were evaluated. The results shown that the copolymer had excellent salt‐thickening effect, favorable temperature resistance, and shear resistance. We expect that this work would provide a new method for designing polymers with excellent temperature resistance, salt resistance, and shear resistance.
Efficient reinforcement of wet gel by embedded polymer as newly approach for silica aerogel
Authors: Bananifard Hamed , Ashjari Mohsen , Niazi Zahra , Etemadi Mahdi
Published: August 2020

Silica aerogel as an ultra‐porous material with high specific surface area is fabricated through drying a wet gel. Although ambient pressure drying is considered as simplest method, the obtained physical properties are not very desired. Here, we introduced a novel approach to improve the efficiency of ambient pressure drying technique by enhancing the strength and firmness of pores walls. The tetraethyl orthosilicate was used to produce the wet gel. The gel network was reinforced via embedding the polyvinyl alcohol cross‐linkable polymer into porosities of wet gel, and drying at ambient condition, forming an interpenetrating network. The thermal treatment was applied to remove the polymeric phase from structure of reinforced network. A proper specific surface area, good density, and high porosity were achieved about 503 m2/g, 0.23 g/cm3, and 89%, respectively. Furthermore, the obtained interconnected structure along whit large numbers of open mesopores confirms the acceptable efficiency of introduced facilitated technique.
Laser‐Induced Ignition and Combustion of Al−Mg Alloy Powder Prepared by Melt Atomization
Authors: Huang Xuefeng , Yang Yihang , Hou Fengting , Li Shengji , Qin Zhao , Zhao Fengqi
Published: August 2020

To improve the ignition and combustion performance of aluminum, complementary metal is introduced into it to form binary alloy like Al−Mg, Al−Ti, Al−Zr and Al−Li. This paper mainly investigated the preparation, characterization, ignition, and combustion characteristics of Al−Mg alloy powder. Melt atomization technique was used to produce the spherical Al−Mg alloy powder containing 20 % mass content of Mg composition. The crystalline structure, morphology, element distribution, and thermal performance were characterized by XRD, TEM, SEM, EDS, and TG‐DSC. Results show that the Al−Mg alloy had intermetallic phases of Al12Mg17 and Al3Mg2, uniform element distribution, and no dense oxide shell at the surface. The laser‐induced ignition and combustion characteristics of Al−Mg alloy powder were investigated by microscopic high‐speed cinematography, photoelectric detection, and infrared thermal imaging methods. It is testified that Al−Mg alloy powder took intermetallic phase decomposition, then followed the two‐stage combustion mode, and demonstrated gaseous emission and multiple microexplosion behavior during combustion. The ignition delay and ignition temperature were measured at elevated laser ignition power density. It is found that the temperature rise rate had a significant effect on the ignition delay.
Synthesis and Characterization of Multi‐Modal γ‐Al2O3: A Systematic Investigation on the Optimization of Hydrodemetallization Catalyst Preparation
Authors: Ghassabzaadeh Hamid , Niaei Aligoli , Rashidzadeh Mehdi
Published: August 2020

The pore structure of hydrodemetallization catalysts plays a vital role in their lifetime and thus, on the process economy. In this investigation, a multi‐modal meso and macroporous alumina has been prepared by using aluminum alkoxides. To tune the alumina properties to the desired values, a systematic design of experiments was applied to propose correlations between the synthesis parameters and catalyst properties. Several factors, which are effective on the specifications of the prepared multi‐modal alumina, were analyzed and the dominant factors were identified. The results predicted by the model were in agreement with the experimental data. The analysis of the results showed that the prepared optimal sample had an average pore diameter and specific surface area of 21.2 nm and 341 m2/gr, respectively. For the prepared catalyst, N2 adsorption/desorption measurements showed a multimodal pore structure ranging from 2 to 100 nm in size.Finally, an HDM catalyst was prepared based on optimum alumina. The activity and performance of the prepared catalyst were compared with those of the commercial catalyst. At low space times, V‐TPP conversion for commercial and prepared catalysts were 38.9 and 49.5 percent, respectively, showing a higher activity for the prepared catalyst.
Mussel‐Inspired Adhesive Nano‐Filler for Strengthening Polyacrylamide Hydrogel
Authors: J. Hossen Md. , Sarkar Stephen D. , Uddin Md. M. , Roy Chanchal K. , Azam Md. S.
Published: August 2020

Hydrogels are emerging as one of the most attractive water‐containing polymeric materials for many biomedical and industrial engineering applications. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) are often used as filler material to overcome the drawbacks of conventional hydrogels. However, weak frictional interaction of CNC with the polymeric backbone of hydrogels in the presence of water has limited its applications. Herein, we report a mussel‐inspired preparation of a new bio‐based nano‐filler by grafting dopamine (DOPA) over the carboxylated cellulose nanocrystal (CCN), which has been obtained by oxidizing CNC extracted from sawdust. The swelling of polyacrylamide (PAM) hydrogels has been significantly suppressed by the incorporation of the modified filler. In contrast, the mechanical properties like Young's modulus, tensile strength, and toughness of PAM hydrogels increased remarkably indicating a strong interaction of CNC‐DOPA with the PAM chains. For instance, the tensile strength increased from 19 kPa for the CNC‐PAM to 39 kPa for the CCN‐DOPA‐PAM. Interestingly, insertion of only 1 % (w/w) CCN‐DOPA has led to the enhancement of the mechanical strength of PAM even more than that caused by the insertion of 4 % pristine CNC. The spectroscopic data along with the morphological analysis of the composite hydrogels suggest strong hydrogen bonding of DOPA moiety and the PAM backbone is responsible for this incredible improvement of the mechanical strength.
Microwave‐Synthesized TiO2 Nanotube as a Durable Li+‐Storage Electrode Material
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Wang Hongyu
Published: August 2020

TiO2 nanotube (TNT) is synthesized by a facile microwave method. Physical properties of TNT are characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Raman, thermal gravimetric analysis‐differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and nitrogen adsorption‐desorption. Meanwhile, the electrochemical and kinetic performances are investigated. TNT anode in lithium‐ion batteries exhibits a long cycling life (71 mAh g−1 after 20000 cycles at 3 A g−1), outstanding rate capability (123 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1), and fast Li+‐transport (1.42×10−13 cm2 s−1 by EIS). Furthermore, TNT anode in dual‐ion batteries also displays superior cyclic stability (75 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 0.5 A g−1).
Engineering Adsorption Case for Efficient Capture of VOCs Using Biomass‐based Corncobs via a Carbonized Strategy
Authors: Shen Xuhua , Ou Rui , Lu Yutong , Yuan Aihua , Liu Jianfeng , Hu Xiaocai , Yang Zhen , Yang Fu
Published: August 2020

Herein, we report excellent corncobs‐derived carbon adsorbent by the special KOH chemical activation method which specific to selective adsorption removal of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) under humid conditions. The obtained corncobs‐derived carbon adsorbent affords the enhanced adsorption removal capacities for volatile benzene (851.3 mg g‐1) and toluene (854.9 mg g‐1), outperforming comparative that derived from KOH grind means, which are 3 times higher than those of commercial activated‐carbon (benzene 275 mg g‐1, toluene 310.5 mg g‐1). We also demonstrated that the optimized structural property of the fabricated adsorbent had a good correlation with the adsorption efficiency of VOCs. Besides, the adsorption selectivity of benzene and toluene under different relative humidity distinguished by DIH (Difference of the Isosteric Heat) equation further indicates the beforehand adsorption behavior of toluene on the corncobs‐derived carbon adsorbent compared to benzene, which should be benefited from the improved synthetic tactics. Our study provides a real possibility for the practical engineering application of waste biomass (corncobs)‐derived engineering carbonaceous adsorbent in VOCs pollution control.
Erlotinib Conjugated Nitrogen Doped Carbon Nanodots for Targeted Fluorescence Imaging of Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Anjali Devi Jayaraj S. , Aparna Ravindran S. , Anjana Reghunathan R. , Madanan Anju S. , George Sony
Published: August 2020

Pancreatic cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer‐related death in the world due to non‐specific symptoms at early stages and late diagnosis. In this article, we report the use of nitrogen doped carbon nanodots (NCD) as fluorescent contrast agents for in vitro imaging of live pancreatic cancer cells. The surface of these NCDs was functionalised with tyrosine kinase inhibitor type anticancer drug named erlotinib. This targeting ligand enables specific in vitro targeting of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) overexpressed human pancreatic cancer cell lines (PANC‐1). The receptor‐mediated fluorescence staining with targeted NCD was further tested by monitoring in vitro targeting in L929 mouse fibroblast cells with normal EGFR expression. The confocal fluorescence microscopic images show uniform fluorescence staining on PANC‐1 cells and a localised fluorescence staining on the central region of normal L929 cells. The fluorescence stability of targeted NCD even after conjugation with bovine serum albumin proved its potential for cellular imaging.
The Practical Total Synthesis of Rottlerin and Rottlerone
Authors: Chen Xu‐Ling , Dong Yu , Wang Ji‐Yu
Published: August 2020

Rottlerin, a chromenochalcone accuring naturally in Mallotus philippensis, processes a variety of biological activities. The compound has a pseudodimeric structure, as two phloroacetophenone derived aryl cores are linked by a methylene bridge. In this paper, we described a La(OTf)3‐catalyzed activated arene‐formaldehyde condensation strategy to construct the methylene bridge, affording the desired product rottlerin and its analogue rottlerone. Moreover, with Eschenmoser's salt, we accomplished the synthesis of rottlerin and rottlerone in one pot.
A Coumarin‐Based Fluorescent Probe for the Detection of Hypochlorite Ions and Its Applications in Test Paper and Cell Imaging
Authors: Xie Ya , Zhou Cuiping , Zhang Shiqing , Yan Liqiang , Wu Xiongzhi , Shan Yang
Published: August 2020

A turn on fluorescence probe was designed cleverly and synthesized simply through the condensation reaction between coumarin derivative and barbiturate, for sensitively specific recognition of hypochlorite ion (ClO−). This probe displayed a transient monitor process (about 5 min) to ClO− in a wide range of pH values (3‐10), and the monitor limit could be estimated as low as 0.73μM. What's more, this probe could perform fluorescence imaging of ClO− in living cells, and make ClO− in aqueous solution appear on the convenient test strip visually.
Enhanced Performance of a Novel Quaternary Nanocomposite CuO/ZnO/ZnS/CuS towards Removal of Dye Pollutant under Simulated Sunlight Irradiation
Authors: Zhu Wenli , Du Juan , Yang Qiaoling , Liu Dongliang
Published: August 2020

The novel quaternary nanocomposites CuO/ZnO/ZnS/CuS have been successfully synthesized via a green microwave technique using dispersed ZnS micosphere and CuO nanoleaf. More particularly, the sphere‐like ZnS and leaf‐like CuO were mainly responsive to the visible and ultraviolet light, respectively. The quaternary nanocomposites CuO/ZnO/ZnS/CuS were sensitive to both ultraviolet and visible light. When prepared at lower mass ratio of CuO to ZnS, the quaternary nanocomposites showed excellent adsorption capacity in the dark, and remarkable photocatalytic capacity towards Rhodamine B (RhB) dye under the simulated sunlight within a short irradiation time more quickly and efficiently than that of pure CuO and ZnS. The mechanism investigation indicated the photodegradation of RhB dye under the simulated sunlight was mediated by the superoxide radicals and holes. Additionally, the quaternary nanocomposite CuO/ZnO/ZnS/CuS could be easily reused with higher activity.
Highly Enhanced Full Solar Spectrum‐Driven Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction Performance in Cu2–xS/g‐C3N4 Composite: Efficient Charge Transfer and Mechanism Insight
Authors: Jiang Lisha , Wang Kai , Wu Xiaoyong , Zhang Gaoke
Published: August 2020

An efficient full solar spectrum ultraviolet–visible–near infrared (UV–vis–NIR) light‐driven Cu2–xS/g‐C3N4 composite photocatalyst is reported, which is fabricated by a facile solvothermal process for CO2 photoreduction into CO and CH4, as confirmed by product analysis and 13C isotopic test. The composite exhibits superior full solar‐spectrum‐driven CO2 photoreduction performance than pure Cu2–xS and g‐C3N4, which is attributed to the efficient charge transfer due to the formation of intimate interface contact and SC bond coupling between Cu2–xS and g‐C3N4 based on experimental analyses and theoretical calculations. In particular, the activities of the best composite for CO2 photoreduction into CO and CH4 under NIR light irradiation are about 2.6 times and 6.6 times higher than that of Cu2–xS, whereas no production is measured over g‐C3N4. A possible mechanism of photocatalytic CO2 reduction is given based on in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. This study paves the way to prepare carbon nitride–based photocatalysts with full‐spectrum‐responsive property for efficient CO2 photoreduction.
Senti‐eSystem: A sentiment‐based eSystem‐using hybridized fuzzy and deep neural network for measuring customer satisfaction
Authors: Asghar Muhammad Zubair , Subhan Fazli , Ahmad Hussain , Khan Wazir Zada , Hakak Saqib , Gadekallu Thippa Reddy , Alazab Mamoun
Published: August 2020

In the competing era of online industries, understanding customer feedback and satisfaction is one of the important concern for any business organization. The well‐known social media platforms like Twitter are a place where customers share their feedbacks. Analyzing customer feedback is beneficial, as it provides an advantage way of unveiling customer interests. The proposed system, namely Senti‐eSystem, aims at the development of sentiment‐based eSystem using hybridized Fuzzy and Deep Neural Network for Measuring Customer Satisfaction to assist business organizations for improving the quality of their services and products. The proposed approach initially deploys a Bidirectional Long Short Term Memory with attention mechanism to predict the sentiment polarity that is positive and negative, followed by Fuzzy logic approach to determine the customer satisfaction level, which further strengthens the capabilities of the proposed approach. The system achieves an accuracy of 92.86%, outperforming the previous state‐of‐art lexicon‐based approaches. Moreover, the effectiveness of the proposed system is also validated by applying the statistical test.
Effects of Fluorination Position on Fused‐Ring Electron Acceptors
Authors: Dai Shuixing , Zhou Jiadong , Lau Tsz-Ki , Rech Jeromy James , Liu Kuan , Xue Peiyao , Xie Zengqi , Lu Xinhui , You Wei , Zhan Xiaowei
Published: August 2020

Four fused‐ring electron acceptors consisting of the same indacenobis(dithieno[3,2‐b;2′,3′‐d]thiophene) core and 2‐(3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydroinden‐1‐ylidene)malononitrile end groups without or with fluorination on side chains and/or end groups are compared to probe the impacts of fluorination position on molecular packing and optical, electronic, and photovoltaic properties of the nonfullerene acceptors systematically. The fluorination on side chains blue shifts, whereas that on end groups red shifts absorption spectra. Both fluorinations downshift energy levels and enhance electron mobility. The single‐crystal data show that fluorination on side chains hardly affects the aggregate structure but induces intermolecular H‐bonding formation between side groups, leading to closer molecular stacking; fluorination on end groups induces formation of a larger π‐orbital plane, closer framework, and interpenetrating charge‐transfer pathways. While both methods of fluorinations decrease open‐circuit voltage, there is an increase in short‐circuit current density, fill factor, and power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells. Finally, in combination with the polymer donor FTAZ, INIC4/INIC3 with fluorination on side chains or end groups yields PCEs of 9.6–11.6%, which is higher than INIC without fluorination (7.8%). FINIC with fluorination on both side chains and end groups yields the highest PCE of 13.0%.
Rapid Lithium Diffusion in Order@Disorder Pathways for Fast‐Charging Graphite Anodes
Authors: Cai Wenlong , Yan Chong , Yao Yu-Xing , Xu Lei , Xu Rui , Jiang Li-Li , Huang Jia-Qi , Zhang Qiang
Published: August 2020

The use of graphite anode renders practical lithium‐ion batteries for effective energy storage. However, graphite anode is the bottleneck to achieve the fast charging of a battery, ascribed to its low operating potential and corresponding incidental lithium plating. Herein the principle of a thin nanoscale layer on the graphite surface to improve charging capability is investigated by applying a three‐electrode device to precisely record the working behavior. The Li+ diffusion rate is significantly improved by coating a nanoscale turbostratic carbon layer, in which abundant active sites and additional fast Li+ diffusion pathways at the basal‐plane side of graphite sheets render small polarization in a working battery. This fresh understanding enriches the fundamental insights into enhancing the rate performance and facilitating the practical applications of graphite in fast‐charging batteries.
Encapsulation and Release of Curcumin with the Mixture of Porous Rice Starch and Xanthan Gum
Authors: Wu Lirong , Tian Jinhu , Ye Xingqian , Fang Haitian , Zhang Zhong , Xu Chao , Zhang Huiling
Published: August 2020

The porous rice starch (PS) and Xanthan gum (XG) are mixed at different ratios to embed the curcumin. The morphology and physicochemical properties of the microcapsules are characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR); the release of curcumin is evaluated with a simulated gastric‐small intestine model. Results indicate that all the microcapsules present high encapsulation efficiency (>90%) with an average particle size of around 3.30 µm. The curcumin loaded in PS and PS/XG microcapsules forms inclusion complexes rather than simple physical mixtures. The release mechanism of curcumin from microcapsules fits first‐order (R2 > 0.974) and Higuchi (R2 > 0.969) models well in gastric and intestinal models, respectively, indicating that encapsulation of curcumin within PS/XG enables controlled release of curcumin. PS/XG wall materials show great potential for encapsulation and delivery of curcumin.
Laparoscopic versus open distal gastrectomy for locally advanced gastric cancer in middle–low-volume centers in Western countries: a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Garbarino Giovanni Maria , Costa Gianluca , Laracca Giovanni Guglielmo , Castagnola Giorgio , Mercantini Paolo , Di Paola Massimiliano , Vita Simone , Masoni Luigi
Published: August 2020

Background

Gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy is the standard treatment for patients with resectable gastric cancer. Laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) is routinely performed for early gastric cancer, and its indications are increasing even for locally advanced gastric cancer. The aim of this study is to compare two middle–low-volume centers in Western countries experience on LDG versus open distal gastrectomy (ODG) for locally advanced gastric cancer in terms of surgical and oncological outcomes.

Methods

We reviewed the data of 123 consecutive patients that underwent LDG and ODG with D2 lymphadenectomy between 2009 and 2014. Among them, 91 were eligible for inclusion (46 LDG and 45 ODG). After propensity score matching analysis, using a 1:1 case-control match, 34 patients were stratified for each group.

Results

The mean operative time was significantly longer in the LDG group (257.2 vs. 197.2, p < 0.001). No differences were observed in terms of intraoperative blood loss, average number of lymph nodes removed, and lymph node metastases. The postoperative morbidity was comparable in the two groups. LDG group had a significant faster bowel canalization and soft oral intake (p < 0.001). The 5-year overall and disease-free survival were higher for patients treated by laparoscopy, but the post-hoc subgroups analysis revealed that the advantage of LDG was significant just in N0 and stage IB-II patients, whereas N+ and stage III patient’s survival curves were perfectly superimposable.

Conclusions

LDG for locally advanced gastric cancer seems to be feasible and safe with surgical and long-term oncological outcomes comparable with open surgery, even in medium–low-volume centers.
Roboterbasierte Ultraschallsteuerung
Authors: Kaschwich M. , von Haxthausen F. , Aust T. , Ernst F. , Kleemann M.
Published: August 2020

Hintergrund

Die periphere endovaskuläre Chirurgie ist nach wie vor durch die Anwendung von Röntgenstrahlen und Röntgenkontrastmittel für die intraprozedurale Navigation der Instrumentarien ein Verfahren mit potenziellen Risiken und Nebenwirkungen.

Projektziel

Ziel des RoGUS-PAD (Robotic-Guided Ultrasound System for Peripheral Arterial Disease)-Projektes ist die Entwicklung eines roboterbasierten ultraschallgesteuerten Assistenzsystems für periphere endovaskuläre Interventionen zur Verringerung und ggf. Vermeidung von Röntgenstrahlung und Röntgenkontrastmittel sowie Verbesserung der Echtzeitvisualisierung.

Material und Methoden

Für die Bildgebung wurde ein 2‑D-Ultraschall-Lineartastkopf (L12‑3, Philips Healthcare, Best, Niederlande) am Endeffektor eines Roboterarms (LBR iiwa 7 R800, KUKA, Augsburg, Deutschland) montiert. Die ersten Versuche wurden an einem eigens für dieses Projekt entwickelten ultraschallfähigen Phantom durchgeführt. Die Bildverarbeitung und Robotersteuerung erfolgten durch ein speziell entwickeltes Programm in C++.

Ergebnisse

Zur Testung der technischen Umsetzbarkeit des Projektes konnten wir einen semiautomatischen 2‑D-Ultraschallscan einer peripheren Arterie am Phantom durchführen. In 27 von 30 Durchläufen zeigte sich ein erfolgreicher Scanvorgang.

Schlussfolgerung

Unsere ersten Ergebnisse bestätigten, dass die Entwicklung eines roboterbasierten Assistenzsystems für ultraschallgesteuerte periphere endovaskuläre Interventionen technisch umsetzbar ist. Dies stützt unsere Ambitionen einer Translation des Systems in die tägliche klinische Praxis.
Rational Krylov for Stieltjes matrix functions: convergence and pole selection
Authors: Massei Stefano , Robol Leonardo
Published: August 2020

Evaluating the action of a matrix function on a vector, that is $$x=f({\mathcal {M}})v$$

x
=
f
(
M
)
v

, is an ubiquitous task in applications. When $${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
 is large, one usually relies on Krylov projection methods. In this paper, we provide effective choices for the poles of the rational Krylov method for approximating x when f(z) is either Cauchy–Stieltjes or Laplace–Stieltjes (or, which is equivalent, completely monotonic) and $${\mathcal {M}}$$
M
 is a positive definite matrix. Relying on the same tools used to analyze the generic situation, we then focus on the case $${\mathcal {M}}=I \otimes A - B^T \otimes I$$

M
=
I
⊗
A
-

B
T

⊗
I

, and v obtained vectorizing a low-rank matrix; this finds application, for instance, in solving fractional diffusion equation on two-dimensional tensor grids. We see how to leverage tensorized Krylov subspaces to exploit the Kronecker structure and we introduce an error analysis for the numerical approximation of x. Pole selection strategies with explicit convergence bounds are given also in this case.
Sequentially coupled gradient-based topology and domain shape optimization
Authors: Wang Zhijun , Suiker Akke S. J. , Hofmeyer Hèrm , Kalkman Ivo , Blocken Bert
Published: August 2020

A coupled topology and domain shape optimization framework is presented that is based on incorporating the shape design variables of the design domain in the Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization topology optimization method. The shape and topology design variables are incrementally updated in a sequential fashion, using a staggered numerical update scheme. Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines are employed to parameterize the shape of the design domain. This not only guarantees a highly accurate description of the shape boundaries by means of smooth basis functions with compact support, but also enables an efficient control of the design domain with only a few control points. Furthermore, the optimization process is performed in a computationally efficient way by applying a gradient-based optimization algorithm, for which the sensitivities can be computed in closed form. The usefulness of the coupled optimization approach is demonstrated by analyzing several benchmark problems that are subjected to different types of initial conditions and domain bounds. The variation in simulation results denotes that a careful construction of the initial design domain is necessary and meaningful.
How does a creative learning environment foster student creativity? An examination on multiple explanatory mechanisms
Authors: Fan Mudan , Cai Wenjing
Published: August 2020

Scholars and educators have acknowledged the importance of the learning environment, especially the creative learning environment, on student creativity. However, the current understanding is far from complete to paint a clear picture of how a creative learning environment can stimulate students’ creative outcomes in the classroom. Drawing on Amabile’s componential theory of creativity, the present research aims to test how a creative learning environment can foster undergraduate creativity through three distinct mechanisms (i.e., learning goal orientation, network ties, and knowledge sharing). A total of 431 students and their teachers from a Chinese university completed questionnaires. The results generally supported the theoretical model in which a creative learning environment is significantly associated with student creativity by enhancing students’ learning goal orientation, network ties, and knowledge sharing. Implications for theory and educational practice, limitations of the present study, and suggestions for future research are discussed.
A Measure of Child Exposure to Household Material Deprivation: Empirical Evidence from the Portuguese Eu-Silc
Authors: Ferrão Maria Eugénia , Bastos Amélia , Alves Maria Teresa G.
Published: August 2020

Although monitoring and evaluating child poverty has been recognized as important, there is little statistical information focused on children. Because the annual EU-Statistics on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC) survey does not include child-specific information on an annual basis, this study proposes a measure of child exposure to household material deprivation based on this dataset. The study considers four domains of deprivation that have a direct impact on child development: housing conditions, household financial capacity, household durable goods, and environmental living conditions. Although developing a child-centered measurement of child deprivation is important, the EU-SILC considers the household as the unit of measurement. Therefore, our proposal is household-based, allowing annual monitoring of children’s exposure to deprivation—an important insight for social policy purposes to tackle the problem of child poverty. Using the 2017 Portuguese sample, we applied graded response models to assess the psychometric properties of the EU-SILC items and fit separate indexes per domain and the composite index. Item selection was based on their characteristic curves and information functions. The results allow for the selection of more informative items for every domain to obtain the composite index. In general, the empirical analysis confirmed the theoretical approach for item selection. The methodology may be directly applied to the full EU dataset or to each country individually.
Mean Curvature Flow in Asymptotically Flat Product Spacetimes
Authors: Kröncke Klaus , Lindblad Petersen Oliver , Lubbe Felix , Marxen Tobias , Maurer Wolfgang , Meiser Wolfgang , Schnürer Oliver C. , Szabó Áron , Vertman Boris
Published: August 2020

We consider the long-time behaviour of the mean curvature flow of spacelike hypersurfaces in the Lorentzian product manifold $$M\times \mathbb {R}$$

M
×
R

, where M is asymptotically flat. If the initial hypersurface $$F_0\subset M\times \mathbb {R}$$

F
0

⊂
M
×
R

is uniformly spacelike and asymptotic to $$M\times \left\{ s\right\} $$

M
×

s

for some $$s\in \mathbb {R}$$

s
∈
R

at infinity, we show that a mean curvature flow starting at $$F_0$$

F
0

exists for all times and converges uniformly to $$M\times \left\{ s\right\} $$

M
×

s

as $$t\rightarrow \infty $$

t
→
∞

.
Monitoring of groundwater quality for drinking purposes using the WQI method and its health implications around inactive mines in Vemula-Vempalli region, Kadapa District, South India
Authors: Yenugu Sudharshan Reddy , Vangala Sunitha , Badri Suvarna
Published: August 2020

A study was conducted to evaluate the groundwater quality and health risk assessment for drinking purposes around inactive mining areas in the rural regions of Vemula-Vempalli region using the water quality index (WQI) method. For this study, forty groundwater samples were collected from bore wells and analyzed for physical parameters and major cations and anions followed by standard methods of APHA. From the analytical results, most of the groundwater samples are in alkaline nature; EC, TDS, and TH values are below the permissible limit and major cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, Na+) & anions (Cl−, HCO3, SO42−, F−, NO3−) also within the permissible limit except fluoride and nitrate. Fluoride and nitrate in the groundwater range between 0.24–3 and 0.14–269 mg/L, respectively. Magmatic intrusions and water–rock interactions are main responsible for elevated fluoride in groundwater, and agricultural practices and usage of fertilizer are major responsible for higher nitrates in the groundwater. Piper diagram reveals that most of the samples belong to hydrochemical facies Ca2+–Mg2+–HCO3− category in this region. A higher concentration of fluoride and nitrate in the groundwater may cause a serious impact on human health. Non-carcinogenic effects of F− and NO3− were computed using total hazard index by adopting USEPA guidelines; THI values in drinking water range from 0.41 to 7.28 (adults), 0.41 to 7.38 (children) and 0.31 to 5.62 (infants); it reveals that children are more prone to the health impact than adults and infants. Overall assessment of WQI values (83.7–186.1 mg/L) shows that 7.5% (excellent), 80% (good), and 12.5% groundwater samples are very poor for drinking purpose in this region.
Mechanical performance study of the retractable pier column after stiffening
Authors: Zhang Yi , Wang Xiaoye , Zhao Liming , Liu Jie , Wang Nana , Ding Yingying
Published: August 2020

To solve the problem that the overlapping parts of a retractable pier column are prone to damage, this paper proposed the reinforcing measure of setting a stiffener ring at the bottom of the steel pipe. To study how the stiffener-ring parameters influence the mechanical properties of the pier column, 12 scale model specimens (including nine specimens with stiffener-ring widths of 40, 50, and 60 mm and three unstiffened comparison specimens) were tested under axial compression. Based on the test results, the specimen load–displacement, load–deflection, and load–strain curves were analyzed, and a finite-element model of a pier column under axial compression was established to determine the optimal stiffener size. The results show that setting a stiffener ring enhances the cooperative working ability between the steel pipe and the internal filling material and restrains the lateral deformation of the pier column, thereby improving the ultimate bearing capacity and overall stability of the pier column. The ultimate bearing capacity of the pier column is related to the width and thickness of the stiffener ring. The optimal size of the stiffener ring of the model pier column is 70 mm in width and 4 mm in thickness. The present research results provide a reference for designing compressible pier columns and column stiffening in mines and have important practical significance.
A guideline for modelling relations of embodiment and function in agile development
Authors: Grauberger Patric , Heimicke Jonas , Nann Samuel , Albers Albert , Matthiesen Sven
Published: August 2020

In current product development, the increased usage of agile approaches from software development is observable. With these approaches, improved responsiveness of developer teams to the dynamics of today's markets is desired. However, the gain of technical knowledge in these approaches has so far received little support, leading to difficulties in implementation in engineering design projects that deal with physical product aspects. This contribution aims to provide a guideline to gain technical knowledge about physical products in agile processes through the usage of qualitative modelling of embodiment function relations. This guideline is developed by integrating and adapting the Contact and Channel approach into the agile approach Agile Systems Design. It aims at aiding the evolutionary and iterative development in rapid cycles through fractal modelling of qualitative technical knowledge. The guideline is applied in two development projects. It shows potential to support developer teams by providing different aspects of the Contact and Channel approach in different phases of agile projects, depending on the tackled task.
Evaluating the efficacy of removal treatments on wavyleaf basketgrass (Oplismenus undulatifolius)
Authors: Bowen Anna K. M. , Beauchamp Vanessa B. , Stevens Martin H. H.
Published: August 2020

With the spread of a new invasive plant species, it is vital to determine the effectiveness of removal strategies as well as their advantages and disadvantages before attempting widespread removal. While thousands of dollars have been spent to curtail the spread of wavyleaf basketgrass [Oplismenus undulatifolius (Ard.) P. Beauv.], a relatively new invasive species, the lack of a cohesive management plan and funding has made controlling this species especially difficult. We assessed the efficacy of a variety of chemical control methods and hand weeding for this species and followed select methods over time. We also assessed the potential for ecosystem recovery following removal by measuring total and native species richness in response to treatments. Our pilot study revealed a wide breadth of responses to our eight herbicides, with fluazifop plus fenoxaprop, imazapic, quizalofop, and sulfometuron methyl being the least effective. In our follow-up experiments, hand weeding, glyphosate, and clethodim treatments were effective at reducing O. undulatifolius percent cover, density, and biomass, with an average reduction of at least 48% in the first year. However, we found substantial variation in the effectiveness of clethodim between our two experiments, which was likely driven by site differences. We also found that all three of these removal methods were effective at reducing the number of O. undulatifolius flowering stems and the height of those stems, which will likely reduce the spread of this species to new areas. Finally, we found that these methods have the potential to restore total and native species richness, but that glyphosate-treated plots did not fully recover until 2 yr after treatment.