bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence in the context of ensuring national security
Authors: Gorokhova Svetlana Sergeevna
Published: September 2020

The subject of this research is the most promising technological solutions with application of artificial intelligence and global trends of their implementation by the armed forces of technologically advanced countries. The author determines the key vectors in application of artificial intelligence technologies by a number of countries, including the Russian Federation. The problem of research consist in the lack of balance in the approach towards application of technological solutions based on artificial intelligence, d on the one hand substantiated by the increased risk of application of artificial intelligence systems for ensuring security and defense of the countries, while on the other – impossibility of rejecting them due to current international trends. The scientific novelty consists in the attempt of comprehensive analysis of the current global situation with regards to outlining the prospects and risks of application of artificial intelligence technologies in the armed forces and in the sphere of ensuring national security of modern countries. The following conclusions were made: artificial intelligence technologies are the most promising direction for re-equipment of armed forces of the leading military powers of modern world; explorations are conducted in multiple directions, varying from unmanned vehicles to deadly autonomous weapon. The experts note the evident positive prospects of application of artificial intelligence in the sphere of ensuring national security, as well as potential negative consequences of its implementation.  
EphrinB2-EphB4 signalling provides Rho-mediated homeostatic control of lymphatic endothelial cell junction integrity
Authors: Frye Maike , Stritt Simon , Ortsäter Henrik , Hernandez Vasquez Magda , Kaakinen Mika , Vicente Andres , Wiseman John , Eklund Lauri , Martínez-Torrecuadrada Jorge L , Vestweber Dietmar , Mäkinen Taija
Published: September 2020

Endothelial integrity is vital for homeostasis and adjusted to tissue demands. Although fluid uptake by lymphatic capillaries is a critical attribute of the lymphatic vasculature, the barrier function of collecting lymphatic vessels is also important by ensuring efficient fluid drainage as well as lymph node delivery of antigens and immune cells. Here, we identified the transmembrane ligand EphrinB2 and its receptor EphB4 as critical homeostatic regulators of collecting lymphatic vessel integrity. Conditional gene deletion in mice revealed that EphrinB2/EphB4 signalling is dispensable for blood endothelial barrier function, but required for stabilization of lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC) junctions in different organs of juvenile and adult mice. Studies in primary human LECs further showed that basal EphrinB2/EphB4 signalling controls junctional localisation of the tight junction protein CLDN5 and junction stability via Rac1/Rho-mediated regulation of cytoskeletal contractility. EphrinB2/EphB4 signalling therefore provides a potential therapeutic target to selectively modulate lymphatic vessel permeability and function.
A synthetic biosensor to detect peroxisomal acetyl-CoA concentration for compartmentalized metabolic engineering
Authors: Huttanus Herbert M. , Senger Ryan S.
Published: September 2020

Background

Sub-cellular compartmentalization is used by cells to create favorable microenvironments for various metabolic reactions. These compartments concentrate enzymes, separate competing metabolic reactions, and isolate toxic intermediates. Such advantages have been recently harnessed by metabolic engineers to improve the production of various high-value chemicals via compartmentalized metabolic engineering. However, measuring sub-cellular concentrations of key metabolites represents a grand challenge for compartmentalized metabolic engineering.

Methods

To this end, we developed a synthetic biosensor to measure a key metabolite, acetyl-CoA, in a representative compartment of yeast, the peroxisome. This synthetic biosensor uses enzyme re-localization via PTS1 signal peptides to construct a metabolic pathway in the peroxisome which converts acetyl-CoA to polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) via three enzymes. The PHB is then quantified by HPLC.

Results

The biosensor demonstrated the difference in relative peroxisomal acetyl-CoA availability under various culture conditions and was also applied to screening a library of single knockout yeast mutants. The screening identified several mutants with drastically reduced peroxisomal acetyl-CoA and one with potentially increased levels. We expect our synthetic biosensors can be widely used to investigate sub-cellular metabolism and facilitate the “design-build-test” cycle of compartmentalized metabolic engineering.
Climatic influence on the growth pattern ofPanthasaurus maleriensisfrom the Late Triassic of India deduced from paleohistology
Authors: Teschner Elżbieta M. , Chakravorti Sanjukta , Sengupta Dhurjati P. , Konietzko-Meier Dorota
Published: September 2020

Metoposaurids are representatives of the extinct amphibian clade Temnospondyli, found on almost every continent exclusively in the Late Triassic deposits. Osteohistologically, it is one of the best-known temnospondyl groups, analyzed with a wide spectrum of methods, such as morphology, morphometry, bone histology or computed modelling. The least known member of Metoposauridae isPanthasaurus maleriensisfrom the Pranhita-Godavari basin in Central India, being geographically the most southern record of this family. For the first time the bone histology of this taxon was studied with a focus on the intraspecific variability of the histological framework and the relationship between the observed growth pattern and climatic and/or environmental conditions. The studied material includes thin-sections of five long bones, a rib, an ilium and an intercentrum belonging most likely to eight individuals ranging from different ontogenetic stages. All bones have a large medullary region with progressively increasing remodeling, surrounded by a lamellar-zonal tissue type. The primary cortex consists of parallel-fibered matrix showing various degrees of organization, less organized collagen fibers in the zones and higher organized in the annuli. Growth marks occur in the form of alternating zones and annuli in every bone except the ilium and the intercentrum. The vascularity becomes less dense towards the outermost cortex in all sampled limb bones. Towards the outermost cortex the zone thickness is decreasing, in contrast to the avascular annuli, that become thicker or are of the same thickness. The growth pattern ofP. maleriensisis uniform and represents changes in ontogenetic development. Multiple resting lines are prominent in the outer annuli of the limb bones and the rib and they presumably indicate climatic and environmental influence on the growth pattern. Therefore, a prolonged phase of slowed-down growth occurred during the unfavorable phase, but a complete cessation of growth indicated by Lines of Arrested Growth (LAGs) is not recorded in the studied samples. Based on the histological framework we conclude that the climate had an impact on the growth pattern. As we do not see any LAGs in the Indian metoposaurid, we assume that the local climate was relatively mild in India during the Late Triassic. A similar prolonged phase of slowed down growth without the occurrence of LAGs was observed inMetoposaurus krasiejowensisfrom the Late Triassic of Krasiejów (Poland). This is in contrast to Moroccan metoposauridDutuitosaurus ouazzouifrom the Late Triassic of Argana Basin, where LAGs are regularly deposited throughout ontogeny indicating most likely harsher climatic conditions.
Diverse CBX family members as potential prognostic biomarkers in non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Xie Xiaobin , Ning Yue , Long Jie , Wang Hongyan , Chen Xiaowei
Published: September 2020

Chromobox (CBX) family members are vital epigenetic regulators that repress the transcription of target genes through chromatin modification. Several studies have investigated the role of CBX family members in cancer. However, the function and prognostic value of diverse CBX family members in non‐small‐cell lung cancer remain largely unknown. In this study, we reveal that CBX family members are overexpressed in non‐small‐cell lung cancer tissue compared with normal lung tissue, with the exception of CBX6. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that high expressions of CBX1 and CBX3 are correlated with overall survival, disease‐specific survival, disease‐free interval, and progression‐free interval for patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Furthermore, regression model analysis suggests that CBX3 may be suitable as an independent prediction factor for overall survival and progression‐free interval in patients with LUAD. In addition, CBX3 mRNA expression was found to be associated with tumor diameter and lymph node metastasis. Gene enrichment analysis suggests that CBX3 is involved in the cell cycle and P53 signaling pathways. Aberrant expression of CBX3 in LUAD is correlated with DNA copy number alteration. In summary, our data imply that CBX3 plays an important role in the promotion of LUAD and may thus have potential as a prognostic biomarker and molecular therapeutic target for the disease.
Multiplexed Detection of Analytes on Single Test Strips with Antibody‐Gated Indicator‐Releasing Mesoporous Nanoparticles
Authors: Climent Estela , Biyikal Mustafa , Gröninger Delia , Weller Michael G. , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón , Rurack Knut
Published: September 2020

Rapid testing methods for the use directly at a point of need are expected to unfold their true potential especially when offering adequate capabilities for the simultaneous measurement of multiple analytes of interest. Considering the unique modularity, high sensitivity, and selectivity of antibody‐gated indicator delivery (gAID) systems, a multiplexed assay for three small‐molecule explosives (TATP, TNT, PETN) was thus developed, allowing to detect the analytes simultaneously with a single test strip at lower ppb concentrations in the liquid phase in <5 min using a fluorescence reader or a smartphone for readout. While the TNT and PETN systems were newly developed here, all the three systems also tolerated harsher matrices than buffered aqueous model solutions. Besides a single‐track strip, the outstanding modularity of the hybrid biosensor materials in combination with strip‐patterning technologies allowed us to obtain a multichannel strip in a straightforward manner, offering comparable analytical performance while allowing to be tailored even more to the user's need.
Isomerisation of Vinyl Sulfones for the Stereoselective Synthesis of Vinyl Azides
Authors: Collins Niall , Connon Robert , Sánchez‐Sanz Goar , Evans Paul
Published: September 2020

Reported is the construction, and facile base‐mediated conversation of ten differently substituted 3‐azido E‐vinyl sulfones (γ‐azido‐α,β‐unsaturated sulfones) into their isomeric vinyl azide counterparts. The requisite 3‐azido E‐vinyl sulfones were prepared from 3‐bromo E‐vinyl sulfones, which in turn were accessed from allyl sulfones via a bromination‐elimination sequence. In relation to this a one‐pot azidation‐isomerisation sequence was developed which enabled the direct formation of the vinyl azides from the corresponding 3‐bromo E‐vinyl sulfones. Similarly, a convenient one‐pot Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons olefination‐isomerisation approach was utilised in order to prepare some of the allylic sulfones used in this study. The vinyl azide forming process typically proceeded with high levels of Z‐selectivity, although this was dependent on the vinyl sulfone substitution pattern. Thus, with either no substituent or a methyl group in the γ‐ or β‐position, relative to the sulfone, good, to high levels of Z‐selectivity (Z/E = 85:15 to ≥ 95:5) were obtained. However, incorporation of an α‐sulfonyl methyl substituent led to an E‐selective process (Z/E = 20:80). A non‐bonding interaction between the azido group and the α‐sulfonyl vinylic proton is proposed, which acts as a conformational control mechanism to help guide the stereochemical outcome.
Investigation of the thermal behavior effect of the surrounding material environment on the swirling flame structure
Authors: Thamri Mohamed Ali , Zinoubi Jamil , Gannouni Soufien , Naffouti Taoufik
Published: September 2020

This paper is focusing on the numerical simulation of a swirling flame, resulting from the interaction of multiple fires, evolving in a free and unlimited environment. A typical system, formed by a central fire source surrounded by four heat sources, is used. Since the thermal characteristic of the surrounding sources is the main engine for the rotation of flame, a detailed study is performed by varying the heating flux of these sources. This study shows that an increase of the heating flux of surrounding sources has as a result an intensification of the penetrating air puffs through the openings between the surrounding four heat sources. These puffs tangentially drive the central flame, thus producing a marked improvement on the angular momentum. Moreover, this study shows that the flame height is strongly affected by the flame rotation. Moreover, two different aspects of the flame height evolution are observed from the flow visualization and the thermal and dynamic fields for the different cases studied.
MPI‐CDG from a hepatic perspective: Report of two Egyptian cases and review of literature
Authors: Abdel Ghaffar Tawhida Y. , Ng Bobby G. , Elsayed Solaf M. , El Naghi Suzan , Helmy Sarah , Mohammed Nermine , El Hennawy Ahmed , Freeze Hudson H.
Published: September 2020

MPI‐CDG is a rare congenital disorder of glycosylation (CDG) which presents with hepato‐gastrointestinal symptoms and hypoglycemia. We report on hepatic evaluation of two pediatric patients who presented to us with gastrointestinal symptoms. Analysis of carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) showed a Type 1 pattern and molecular analysis confirmed the diagnosis of MPI‐CDG. Oral mannose therapy was markedly effective in one patient but was only partially effective in the other who showed progressive portal hypertension.
A ranking of concurrent precipitation and wind events for the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Hénin Riccardo , Ramos Alexandre M. , Pinto Joaquim G. , Liberato Margarida L. R.
Published: September 2020

The Iberian Peninsula (IP) is often affected by extreme precipitation and severe winds that are mostly associated with extratropical cyclones and their atmospheric fronts. ERA5 reanalysis data are used to revise and update two existing rankings of extreme precipitation and extreme potential wind‐loss days for the extended winter months on the IP. A ranking of concurrent precipitation and wind extreme events is produced by matching the two individual rankings for the IP and for specific IP subregions, including its main river basins. The intensity and the variability at the interannual and decadal scale are evaluated for precipitation, wind and concurrent precipitation and wind events. A systematic analysis of the underlying synoptic conditions is pursued for the top100 most extreme concurrent events including (a) cyclones' trajectories, (b) the presence of an Atmospheric River (AR), (c) recurrent patterns in the locations affected by precipitation and wind extremes and (d) possible long‐term trends. Results show that 85% of concurrent precipitation and wind extreme events are clearly associated with a cyclonic feature and most of these cyclones either cross the IP or pass to the northwest. Concurrent events are more likely occurring in the northwestern sectors of the IP on wintertime as in recent decades a downward trend for the events' frequency is observed in autumn. ARs are more likely associated with the strongest events occurring on the western sector of IP. Accordingly, the areas that mostly experience concurrent precipitation and wind extremes related to those systems are located in the northwestern sector of the peninsula.
On‐Chip Acousto Thermal Shift Assay for Rapid and Sensitive Assessment of Protein Thermodynamic Stability
Authors: Ding Yonghui , Ball Kerri A. , Webb Kristofor J. , Gao Yu , D'Alessandro Angelo , Old William M. , Stowell Michael H. B. , Ding Xiaoyun
Published: September 2020

Thermal shift assays (TSAs) have been extensively used to study thermodynamics of proteins and provide an efficient means to assess protein–ligand binding or protein–protein interactions. However, existing TSAs have limitations, such as being time consuming, labor intensive, or having low sensitivity. Herein, an acousto thermal shift assay (ATSA), the first ultrasound enabled TSA, is reported for real‐time analysis of protein thermodynamic stability. It capitalizes the coupling of unique acoustic mechanisms to achieve protein unfolding, concentration, and measurement on a single microfluidic chip within minutes. Compared to conventional TSA methods, the ATSA technique enables ultrafast (at least 30 times faster), highly sensitive (7–34 folds higher), and label‐free monitoring of protein–ligand interactions and protein stability. ATSA paves new avenues for protein analysis in biology, medicine, and fast diagnosis.
4d mirror-like dualities
Authors: Hwang Chiung , Pasquetti Sara , Sacchi Matteo
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We construct a family of 4d$$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 theories that we call $$ {E}_{\rho}^{\sigma } $$

E
ρ
σ

[USp(2N)] which exhibit a novel type of 4d IR duality very reminiscent of the mirror duality enjoyed by the 3d$$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 $$ {T}_{\rho}^{\sigma } $$

T
ρ
σ

[SU(N)] theories. We obtain the $$ {E}_{\rho}^{\sigma } $$

E
ρ
σ

[USp(2N)] theories from the recently introduced E[USp(2N )] theory, by following the RG flow initiated by vevs labelled by partitions ρ and σ for two operators transforming in the antisymmetric representations of the USp(2N) × USp(2N) IR symmetries of the E[USp(2N)] theory. These vevs are the 4d uplift of the ones we turn on for the moment maps of T[SU(N)] to trigger the flow to $$ {T}_{\rho}^{\sigma } $$

T
ρ
σ

[SU(N)]. Indeed the E[USp(2N)] theory, upon dimensional reduction and suitable real mass deformations, reduces to the T[SU(N)] theory. In order to study the RG flows triggered by the vevs we develop a new strategy based on the duality webs of the T[SU(N)] and E[USp(2N)] theories.
Synthesis and characterization of bio-based quaternary ammonium salts with gibberellate or l-tryptophanate anion
Authors: Szymaniak Daria , Pernak Juliusz , Rzemieniecki Tomasz , Kaczmarek Damian Krystian , Andrzejak Roman , Kosiada Tomasz , Janowska Beata
Published: September 2020

Numerous biologically active acids can be transformed into an ionic form in a facile way and combined with appropriate quaternary ammonium cation to improve their application properties or biological activity. This study describes the synthesis of new quaternary ammonium salts with anions of gibberellic acid, a common plant growth regulator from the gibberellin group, orl-tryptophan, an important precursor of auxin biosynthesis. The surface-active tetrapentylammonium ion and natural substances such as acetylcholine, choline, and quinine were the sources of cations. Novel salts of gibberellic acid andl-tryptophan were obtained with high yields exceeding 97% as a result of the metathesis reaction or the neutralization of quaternary ammonium hydroxides. Phase transition temperatures, thermal and chemical stability, and solubility in solvents with different polarities were determined for all obtained salts. On the basis of studies regarding the influence of synthesized salts on the post-harvest longevity and quality of leaves ofConvallaria majalis, it was established that the biological activity of the natural plant regulators in most cases was maintained. Therefore, it can be concluded that the conversion of the active substance into the form of a quaternary ammonium salt results in obtaining novel forms of plant growth regulators with favourable physicochemical properties while maintaining the efficacy of the biological active ingredients.

Graphic abstract
A deference model of epistemic authority
Authors: Bokros Sofia Ellinor
Published: September 2020

How should we adjust our beliefs in light of the testimony of those who are in a better epistemic position than ourselves, such as experts and other epistemic superiors? In this paper, I develop and defend a deference model of epistemic authority. The paper attempts to resolve the debate between the preemption view and the total evidence view of epistemic authority by taking an accuracy-first approach to the issue of how we should respond to authoritative and expert testimony. I argue that when we look at the debate through the lens of accuracy, it becomes clear that matters are more complicated than either the preemption view or the total evidence view are able to account for. Consequently, a deference model, outlined within a credence-based framework, does a better job of capturing the relevant phenomena, and explaining how we should update our beliefs in response to epistemically authoritative testimony.
iGMDR: Integrated Pharmacogenetic Resource Guide to Cancer Therapy and Research
Authors: Chen Xiang , Guo Yi , Chen Xin
Published: September 2020

Current pharmacogenetic studies have obtained many genetic models that can predict the therapeutic efficacy of anticancer drugs. Although some of these models are of crucial importance and have been used in clinical practice, these very valuable models have not been well adopted into cancer research to promote the development of cancer therapies due to the lack of integration and standards for the existing data of the pharmacogenetic studies. For this purpose, we built a resource investigating genetic model of drug response (iGMDR), which integrates the models from in vitro and in vivo pharmacogenetic studies with different omics data from a variety of technical systems. In this study, we introduced a standardized process for all integrations, and described how users can utilize these models to gain insights into cancer. iGMDR is freely accessible at https://igmdr.modellab.cn.
The importance of timely diagnosis of aspirin‐exacerbated respiratory disease for patient health and safety
Authors: Buchheit Kathleen , Bensko Jillian C. , Lewis Erin , Gakpo Deborah , Laidlaw Tanya M.
Published: September 2020

Backgroud

Aspirin‐exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is a difficult‐to‐treat syndrome where timely diagnosis and initiation of disease‐specific therapies are pertinent to improved patient outcomes.

Objective

To characterize the most common timeline for development of the clinical triad [asthma, nasal polyposis, and reactions to nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)], identify barriers to prompt diagnosis of AERD, and describe indications for an aspirin challenge to facilitate accurate diagnosis.

Methods

Six hundred ninety‐seven patients with diagnosed AERD and history of at least one sinus surgery to remove nasal polyps were identified in the Brigham and Women's Hospital AERD registry. Patient reported age at disease onset of asthma, nasal polyposis, and age of first NSAID reaction were obtained from 2013 to 2019 at enrollment.

Results

Of the 697 patients identified, diagnosis of asthma preceded diagnosis of nasal polyposis and first NSAID reaction, although there was considerable variability between patients.

Conclusions

Prompt diagnosis of AERD is important for patient and provider education and improved care of this difficult‐to‐treat population of patients. Consider diagnostic aspirin challenge in patients without historical reactions to NSAIDs who have an otherwise compatible clinical history, specifically in patients who take daily low‐dose aspirin, leukotriene modifiers, avoid NSAIDs, or who are severely symptomatic at baseline where it would be difficult to identify an acute worsening of symptoms.
Media Contact and Posttraumatic Stress in Employees of New York City Area Businesses after the September 11 Attacks
Authors: Pfefferbaum Betty , Palka Jayme , North Carol S.
Published: September 2020

Objective:

The objective of this study was to examine associations between media contact and posttraumatic stress in a sample with a large number of individuals who were directly exposed to the September 11, 2001 (9/11) attacks and to compare outcomes in exposed and unexposed participants.

Methods:

Structured interviews and questionnaires were administered to a volunteer sample of 254 employees of New York City businesses 35 months after the attacks to document disaster trauma exposures, posttraumatic stress outcomes, and media contact and reactions.

Results:

Media variables were not associated with psychopathological outcomes in exposed participants, but media contact in the first week after the attacks and feeling moderately/extremely bothered by graphic 9/11 media images were associated with re-experiencing symptoms in both the exposed and unexposed participants. Feeling moderately/extremely bothered by graphic media images was associated with hyperarousal symptoms in exposed participants.

Conclusions:

The findings suggest that media contact did not lead to psychopathology in exposed individuals, although it was associated with normative distress in both exposure groups. Because of the potential for adverse effects associated with media contact, clinicians and public health professionals are encouraged to discuss concerns about mass trauma media contact with their patients and the public at large.
A new crocodylid from the middle Miocene of Kenya and the timing of crocodylian faunal change in the late Cenozoic of Africa
Authors: Cossette Adam P. , Adams Amanda J. , Drumheller Stephanie K. , Nestler Jennifer H. , Benefit Brenda R. , McCrossin Monte L. , Manthi Frederick K. , Nyaboke Juma Rose , Brochu Christopher A.
Published: September 2020

Brochuchusis a small crocodylid originally based on specimens from the early Miocene of Rusinga Island, Lake Victoria, Kenya. Here, we report occurrences ofBrochuchusfrom several early and middle Miocene sites. Some are from the Lake Victoria region, and others are in the Lake Turkana Basin. Specimens from the middle Miocene Maboko locality form the basis of a new species,Brochuchus parvidens, which has comparatively smaller maxillary alveoli. Because of the smaller alveoli, the teeth appear to be more widely spaced in the new species. We also provide a revised diagnosis forBrochuchusand its type species,B.pigotti. A phylogenetic analysis supports a close relationship betweenBrochuchusand tube-snoutedEuthecodon, but although relationships among crocodylids appear poorly resolved in the set of optimal trees, this is becauseBrochuchusandEuthecodon, along with early Miocene “Crocodylus”gariepensisfrom the early Miocene of Namibia, jointly adopt two distinct positions—either closely related to the living sharp-nosed crocodile (Mecistops) or to a group including the living dwarf crocodiles (Osteolaemus). Character support for a close relationship withMecistopsis problematic, and we suspect a closer relationship toOsteolaemuswill be recovered with improved sampling, but the results here are ambiguous. In either case,Brochuchusis more closely related to living groups not currently found in East Africa. This material helps constrain the timing of crocodylian faunal turnover in the East African Rift Valley System, with endemic lineages largely being replaced byCrocodylusin the middle or late Miocene possibly in response to regional xerification and the replacement of continuous rainforest cover with open grasslands and savannas.

UUID:http://zoobank.org/e6f0b219-5f3e-44e5-bdb9-60a4fae8d126
Sexual traits and reproductive strategy of the leucosiid crab Pyrhila pisum
Authors: Kobayashi Satoshi , Archdale Miguel Vazquez
Published: September 2020

Mating strategy and sexual dimorphism of morphological traits of the leucosiid crab Pyrhila pisum were elucidated by analysing relative growth patterns of chelipeds and abdomen, and gonad development patterns. Male adults had long chelipeds compared with juvenile males and females. Among male adults, two phases with different slopes could be found in the regression lines; their chelipeds growth pattern changed from negative allometry to positive and longer chelipeds developed in large adults. The growth is more markedly expressed in the merus than in the propodus. Female adults had wider abdominal segments and a thicker body compared with juvenile females and males. Abdomen of females was greatly enlarged by a puberty moult. Male adults had well-developed gonads similar to female adults, and the weights of male gonads were often larger than those of females of the same body size. For adult males, a negative correlation was detected between carapace width and the weight ratio of their gonads, but no significant relationship was detected for adult females. Females had large and well-bloated seminal receptacles, whose weight was nearly equal to gonad weight. There was little difference in the amount of seminal receptacles regardless of the body size of females. There is a trade-off relationship in the development between chelipeds and gonads in adult males. Probably young adult males compensate for the disadvantageous condition of guarding by increasing the number of spermatozoids, and old adult males invest more of their energy to their chelae for guarding while decreasing investment in sperm production.
Te Karere o Poneke: Creating an Indigenous Discursive Space?
Authors: Paterson Lachy
Published: September 2020

Over sixteen months in 1857 and 1858, Walter Buller produced a weekly newspaper for Māori of the Wellington region in their own language. Although he was the son of a Wesleyan missionary and an official interpreter, the niupepa was neither a church nor a government publication, although it promoted discourses favoured by both. A number of niupepa had preceded Buller's Te Karere o Poneke, the first appearing in 1842, but his paper was distinctive in the sizable platform he provided for correspondence. Over half of the items printed comprised letters from Māori, many of them commenting on, and occasionally critiquing the colonial milieu.

The concept of “public sphere” is heavily theorized, often postulated in acultural terms (although suspiciously European in form) and it is debatable if Te Karere o Poneke's readership and their engagement with the textual discourse meet the theory's required criteria of constituting a public sphere. New Zealand was annexed to the British Empire in 1840, meaning that by 1857 colonization was still a relatively new phenomenon, but with substantial immigration and a developing infrastructure, change was both extensive and dynamic. According to the theory, it may be difficult to apply the concept of “public sphere” to Māori anytime during the changing contexts of nineteenth-century colonialism, and indeed other colonised cultures for whom the advent of literacy, Christianity, market economy and colonial administration had been sudden and unexpected. Of course this does not mean that Māori lacked a voice, at times critical. Using Te Karere o Poneke as a case study, this essay argues that Wellington Māori of 1857 do not readily fit the Western model of the “public sphere”, but they nevertheless utilized the discursive spaces available to them to discuss and evaluate the world they now encountered.
“The Party Must Strengthen Its Leadership in Finance!”: Digital Technologies and Financial Governance in China's Fintech Development
Authors: Wang Jing
Published: September 2020

This article examines the roles digital technologies have played in propelling the shifts in modes of financial governance which have been led by the Chinese Communist Party and enacted by a wide spectrum of regulative actors. Based on analyses of the laws, policies and regulations surrounding digital financial technologies, or so-called fintechs, as well as in-depth interviews with government officials and fintech business executives, I argue that the proliferation of fintechs challenged the existing regulatory schemes defined by the Central Bank and the State Council. This forced a reconsideration of the Chinese government's hegemonic strategies in governing the rapidly changing financial industries. While digital technologies have been promoted to accomplish the goals set by the Party for financial marketization and modernization, a set of institutions including regulatory, organizational and normative rules have been developed to strengthen the Party's control over the digitization of finance. This contradiction is pivotal to understanding the Party's financial policymaking in the digital age.
Personality disorder co-morbidity in primary care ‘Improving Access to Psychological Therapy’ (IAPT) services: a qualitative study exploring patient perspectives on treatment experience
Authors: Lamph Gary , Baker John , Dickinson Tommy , Lovell Karina
Published: September 2020

Background:

High numbers of people present with common mental health disorders and co-morbid personality disorder traits in primary care ‘Improving Access to Psychological Therapies’ (IAPT) services in England and they receive sub-optimal treatments. No previous studies have explored the treatment experiences or needs of this patient population in England.

Aims:

This qualitative study explored the treatment experiences of patients (n = 22) with common mental health difficulties and co-morbid personality disorder as indicated by a score of 3 or more on the ‘Standardised Assessment of Personality – Abbreviated Scale’ (SAPAS) in receipt of primary care-based IAPT treatment.

Method:

A qualitative health research approach was used. Qualitative individual face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted. All interviews were audio recorded, data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a framework analysis approach.

Results:

Findings revealed a need to adapt away from prescriptive cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) treatment models towards more flexible, personalised and individualised treatment with this patient group. Time to emotionally offload, build a therapeutic relationship and link past experiences to presenting problems were highlighted as important.

Conclusions:

For the first time, the needs and treatment experiences of this patient group have been explored. This paper provides a unique patient experience insight that should be considered when exploring new approaches to working with and developing effective interventions via a stepped care approach.
Barriers and facilitators to implementing a healthier food outlet initiative: perspectives from local governments
Authors: Boelsen-Robinson Tara , Peeters Anna , Thow Anne-Marie , Hawkes Corinna
Published: September 2020

Objective:

Local governments have integral roles in contributing to public health. One recent focus has been on how local governments can impact community nutrition by engaging food service outlets to improve their food offer. The Healthier Catering Commitment (HCC) is an initiative where London local governments support takeaways and restaurants to meet centrally defined nutrition criteria on their food options. Using the case of HCC, the current study aims to provide (1) practical learnings of how local governments could facilitate and overcome barriers associated with implementing healthy food service initiatives in general, and (2) specific recommendations for enhancements for HCC.

Design:

Key informant, semi-structured interviews were conducted with local government staff involved in HCC, exploring barriers and facilitators to HCC implementation in food businesses. A thematic analysis approach was used, with results presented according to a logic pathway of ideal implementation in order to provide practical, focused insights.

Setting:

Local governments implementing HCC.

Participants:

Twenty-two individuals supporting HCC implementation.

Results:

Facilitators to implementation included flexible approaches, shared resourcing and strategically engaging businesses with practical demonstrations. Barriers were limited resources, businesses fearing negative customer responses and low uptake in disadvantaged areas. Key suggestions to enhance implementation and impact included offering additional incentives, increasing HCC awareness and encouraging recruited businesses to make healthy changes beyond initiative requirements.

Conclusions:

In order to facilitate the implementation of healthy food initiatives in food outlets, local governments would benefit from involving their environmental health team, employing community-tailored approaches and focusing on supporting businesses in disadvantaged areas.
The journey towards safer radiotherapy: are we on a road to nowhere?
Authors: Graveling Michael
Published: September 2020

Background:

Harnessing available knowledge and learning from our errors are prerequisites of delivering on the challenge of improving patient safety. Towards Safer Radiotherapy, published in 2008, was a response from the UK’s (UK) radiotherapy community to concerns arising from high profile errors. The report was a driver for the development of a national reporting and learning system for radiotherapy.

Materials and methods:

A literature review was conducted covering the years from 2009 to 2020. Search terms used were radiotherapy errors, patient safety, incident learning, human factors and trend analysis. A total of 10 papers reported recommendations or implementation of changes to service delivery models following systematic error analysis. None of these were from UK service providers.

Conclusions:

Twelve years on from the publication of Towards Safer Radiotherapy, there is little evidence of impact on safety culture within the UK radiotherapy community. Although the UK has a large radiotherapy error dataset, there remain unanswered questions about the impact on the safety culture in radiotherapy.
Pollen-mediated gene flow and transfer of resistance alleles from herbicide-resistant broadleaf weeds
Authors: Jhala Amit J. , Norsworthy Jason K. , Ganie Zahoor A. , Sosnoskie Lynn M. , Beckie Hugh J. , Mallory-Smith Carol A. , Liu Jun , Wei Wei , Wang Junming , Stoltenberg David E.
Published: September 2020

Pollen-mediated gene flow (PMGF) refers to the transfer of genetic information (alleles) from one plant to another compatible plant. With the evolution of herbicide-resistant (HR) weeds, PMGF plays an important role in the transfer of resistance alleles from HR to susceptible weeds; however, little attention is given to this topic. The objective of this work was to review reproductive biology, PMGF studies, and interspecific hybridization, as well as potential for herbicide resistance alleles to transfer in the economically important broadleaf weeds including common lambsquarters, giant ragweed, horseweed, kochia, Palmer amaranth, and waterhemp. The PMGF studies involving these species reveal that transfer of herbicide resistance alleles routinely occurs under field conditions and is influenced by several factors, such as reproductive biology, environment, and production practices. Interspecific hybridization studies withinAmaranthusandAmbrosiaspp. show that herbicide resistance allele transfer is possible between species of the same genus but at relatively low levels. The widespread occurrence of HR weed populations and high genetic diversity is at least partly due to PMGF, particularly in dioecious species such as Palmer amaranth and waterhemp compared with monoecious species such as common lambsquarters and horseweed. Prolific pollen production in giant ragweed contributes to PMGF. Kochia, a wind-pollinated species can efficiently disseminate herbicide resistance alleles via both PMGF and tumbleweed seed dispersal, resulting in widespread occurrence of multiple HR kochia populations. The findings from this review verify that intra- and interspecific gene flow can occur and, even at a low rate, could contribute to the rapid spread of herbicide resistance alleles. More research is needed to determine the role of PMGF in transferring multiple herbicide resistance alleles at the landscape level.
Tuning the flexibility and thermal storage capacity of solid–solid phase change materials towards wearable applications
Authors: Shi Jinming , Aftab Waseem , Liang Zibin , Yuan Kunjie , Maqbool Muhammad , Jiang Haoyang , Xiong Feng , Qin Mulin , Gao Song , Zou Ruqiang
Published: September 2020

By tuning the molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol segment, the thermal storage capacity and flexibility of polyurethane-based phase change materials (PCMs) are engineered towards wearable applications.
Development of an electrochemical enzyme-free glucose sensor based on self-assembled Pt–Pd bimetallic nanosuperlattices
Authors: Vinoth Victor , Pugazhenthiran Nalenthiran , Viswanathan Mangalaraja Ramalinga , Syed Asad , Marraiki Najat , Valdés Héctor , Anandan Sambandam
Published: September 2020

The huge demand for the clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus has prompted the development of great-performance sensing platforms for glucose detection.
A flavin-Cu2+ supramolecular complex for highly selective sorting of semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes with specific chiralities
Authors: Staykov Aleksandar , Toshimitsu Fumiyuki , Hashimoto Wataru , Nakashima Naotoshi
Published: September 2020

We introduce thio-substituents at 7- and 8-positions of a flavin analog to form a Cu2+-based supramolecular assembled complex that shows very high selective sorting of semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes with (8,6)- and (9,4)-chiralities.
Naphthalene diimide-incorporated helical thienoacene: a helical molecule with high electron mobility, good solubility, and thermally stable solid phase
Authors: Ohtsuka Nobuhiko , Nakano Masahiro , Nakagawa Sae , Shahiduzzaman Md. , Karakawa Makoto , Taima Tetsuya , Minoura Mao
Published: September 2020

A Naphthalene diimide (NDI)-incorporated helical thienoacene was developed. The compound has high electron mobility (1.4 cm2 V−1 s−1) thanks to its two-dimensional π–π interaction assisted by the intermolecular C–H⋯O hydrogen bonding of the NDI moieties.
Absorption of chemicals in amorphous trisresorcinarene
Authors: Shimoyama Daisuke , Sekiya Ryo , Haino Takeharu
Published: September 2020

Trisresorcinarene is an interesting class of macrocyclic host. Its unique structure and insolubility allow to function as a amorphous solid absorbent capable of absorbing various aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons.
Cobalt-catalyzed ring-opening addition of azabenzonorbornadienes via C(sp3)–H bond activation of 8-methylquinoline
Authors: Tan Heng , Khan Ruhima , Xu Dandan , Zhou Yongyun , Zhang Xuexin , Shi Guangrui , Fan Baomin
Published: September 2020

The first ring-opening addition of a benzylic C(sp3)–H bond to azabenzonorbornadienes is demonstrated.
Pd/BiOBr tetragonal platelets with controllable facets by the decoration of La dopant enabling highly efficient photocatalytic activity
Authors: Chen Xin , Zhang Kailian , Yang Yanming , Yang Kai , Fan Qizhe , Yu Changlin , Huang Weiya , Dai Wenxin
Published: September 2020

Pd particles deposited on BiOBr caused instability of the crystal structure; however, La can stabilize the crystal structure during the deposition of Pd particles.
From BiF3to BiF3·H2O: diverse Bi(iii) coordination for structural transformation and birefringence regulation
Authors: Liu Xian , Yang Can , Wu Qi , Sun Juan , Liang Fei
Published: September 2020

BiF3·H2O with unprecedented BiF9building blocks was synthesized, which exhibits a near-isotropic Bi3+coordination and inert lone pair activity.
A multiple decay-length extension of the Debye–Hückel theory: to achieve high accuracy also for concentrated solutions and explain under-screening in dilute symmetric electrolytes
Authors: Kjellander Roland
Published: September 2020

Very accurate pair distributions and thermodynamics of electrolytes from multiple Debye–Hückel-type decay components, which become oscillatory when appropriate.
Anisotropy of Pt nanoparticles on carbon- and oxide-support and their structural response to electrochemical oxidation probed by in situ techniques
Authors: Schmies Henrike , Bergmann Arno , Hornberger Elisabeth , Drnec Jakub , Wang Guanxiong , Dionigi Fabio , Kühl Stefanie , Sandbeck Daniel J. S. , Mayrhofer Karl J. J. , Ramani Vijay , Cherevko Serhiy , Strasser Peter
Published: September 2020

Investigations on the (electronic) structure of carbon- and oxide-supported Pt nanoparticles during electrochemical oxidation via in situ X-ray diffraction, absorption spectroscopy and the Pt dissolution rate by in situ mass spectrometry.
Stabilization of proteins embedded in sugars and water as studied by dielectric spectroscopy
Authors: Olsson Christoffer , Zangana Rano , Swenson Jan
Published: September 2020

Illustration of how a relatively large amount of disaccharides stabilizes proteins (left figure) more than a very low concentration (right figure).
The electronic structure of the aqueous permanganate ion: aqueous-phase energetics and molecular bonding studied using liquid jet photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Mudryk Karen D. , Seidel Robert , Winter Bernd , Wilkinson Iain
Published: September 2020

Liquid-jet photoelectron spectroscopy revealed the electronic structure of MnO4−(aq), O-ligand–water interactions, and aqueous-phase energetics of MnO4−(aq)/MnO4˙(aq.).
Synergistic effect of two action sites on a nitrogen-doped carbon catalyst towards acetylene hydrochlorination
Authors: Wang Bolin , Yue Yuxue , Pang Xiangxue , Zhu Wenrui , Chen Zhi , Shao Shujuan , Wang Ting , Pan Zhiyan , Li Xiaonian , Zhao Jia
Published: September 2020

In this work, the dynamic reaction pathways of nitrogen-doped carbon catalysts are investigated in acetylene hydrochlorination.
Correction: Strong light–matter interactions: a new direction within chemistry
Authors: Hertzog Manuel , Wang Mao , Mony Jürgen , Börjesson Karl
Published: September 2020

Correction for ‘Strong light–matter interactions: a new direction within chemistry’ by Manuel Hertzog et al., Chem. Soc. Rev., 2019, 48, 937–961, DOI: 10.1039/C8CS00193F.
Ruthenium complexes as prospective inhibitors of metallo-β-lactamases to reverse carbapenem resistance
Authors: Chen Cheng , Yang Kewu
Published: September 2020

The widespread prevalence of metallo-β-lactamase (MβL)-mediated pathogens has seriously caused a loss of efficacy of carbapenem antibacterials, the last resort for the treatment of severe infectious diseases.
Halide perovskite nanocrystals for multiphoton applications
Authors: He Huajun , Sum Tze Chien
Published: September 2020

This frontier article distills the state-of-the-art in the synthesis and nonlinear optical characterization of halide perovskite nanocrystals; as well as highlights their opportunities and challenges for multi-photon deep tissue imaging.
Coagulation/flocculation prior to low pressure membranes in drinking water treatment: a review
Authors: Malkoske Tyler A. , Bérubé Pierre R. , Andrews Robert C.
Published: September 2020

Coagulation/flocculation has been grouped into three typical configurations and the impact of each examined in terms of floc properties and membrane fouling.
Autochthonous tropical groundwater bacteria involved in manganese(ii) oxidation and removal
Authors: Calderón-Tovar Isis L. , Rietveld Luuk C. , Araya-Obando José A. , Quesada-González Andrea , Caballero-Chavarría Andrey , Romero-Esquivel Luis G.
Published: September 2020

Bacteria isolated from well water of tropical regions showed Mn(ii) removal and biofilm formation capacity at the in vitro level. Two promising strains could be used as inoculums in biofilters.
Effect of the coordination environment of Cu in Cu2O on the electroreduction of CO2 to ethylene
Authors: Wu Yahui , Chen Chunjun , Yan Xupeng , Liu Shoujie , Chu Mengen , Wu Haihong , Ma Jun , Han Buxing
Published: September 2020

The coordination number (CN) of Cu–Cu and Cu–O in Cu2O play crucial role on the catalytic performance of CO2 electrocatalytic reduction to C2H4. And the CN of Cu–Cu and Cu–O could be tuned by changing the crystal surface and size of Cu2O.