bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fake or real EU Territorialicy? Debating the territorial universe of EU policies
Authors: Medeiros Eduardo
Published: October 2020

This paper provides new insights into the main pillars of the territorial universe of EU policies, by undertaking a systematic overview of European Union (EU) key territorial development reports, agendas and programmes. These include the European Spatial Development Perspective (ESDP), the three Territorial Agendas, and the European Territorial Observatory Network (ESPON) reports. The evidence shows widespread territorialicy, understood as a process of incorporating a territorial driven policy design, implementation and evaluation paradigm, still largely dominated by territorial development and territorial cohesion policy rationales. However, the socioeconomic policy prism continues to dominate the design and analysis of EU policies by EU entities.
Can a pandemic stop or slow the Anthropocene?
Authors: Więckowski Marek
Published: October 2020

The entire Earth system consists of fully dynamic conditions. Humankind’s manifold large and small influences on the planet are now very well-documented.Changes are now so vast, their traces so significant, that we have come to term this as if it was genuinely a new Epoch in that history – as the Anthropocene.Recently, however, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us how an ostensibly small event at a single locality can take just a few weeks or months to change the world, and in some real sense to stop it. The author in this article in particular seeks to inject a further dose of far-reaching reflection on our pandemic, its influence on life on Earth, and its possible future consequences. Ultimately, then, it seeks an answer for a key question – as to whether COVID-19 is really in a position to stop, or at least slow, the runaway Anthropocene.With a view to encouraging reflection on humankind’s potentially reduced impact on the planet the Author suggestspriority areas of study in the near future.
Retinotectal circuitry of larval zebrafish is adapted to detection and pursuit of prey
Authors: Förster Dominique , Helmbrecht Thomas O , Mearns Duncan S , Jordan Linda , Mokayes Nouwar , Baier Herwig
Published: October 2020

Retinal axon projections form a map of the visual environment in the tectum. A zebrafish larva typically detects a prey object in its peripheral visual field. As it turns and swims towards the prey, the stimulus enters the central, binocular area, and seemingly expands in size. By volumetric calcium imaging, we show that posterior tectal neurons, which serve to detect prey at a distance, tend to respond to small objects and intrinsically compute their direction of movement. Neurons in anterior tectum, where the prey image is represented shortly before the capture strike, are tuned to larger object sizes and are frequently not direction-selective, indicating that mainly interocular comparisons serve to compute an object’s movement at close range. The tectal feature map originates from a linear combination of diverse, functionally specialized, lamina-specific, and topographically ordered retinal ganglion cell synaptic inputs. We conclude that local cell-type composition and connectivity across the tectum are adapted to the processing of location-dependent, behaviorally relevant object features.
Nordlyset
Authors: Ørsted Hans Christian
Published: October 2020

This is the unsigned article 'Nordlyset' (The Northern Light), written by Hans Christian Ørsted, as published in Dansk Folkekalender for the year 1841 (published 1840).
Translation of Ørsted's unsigned article on 'Nordlyset' (1840)
Authors: Moss Kira
Published: October 2020

English translation of Ørsted's original article.
“I just Google it” - Developing professional digital competence and preparing student teachers to exercise responsible ICT use
Authors: GUDMUNDSDOTTIR Dr. Greta Björk , Hatlevik Ove Edvard
Published: October 2020

The rapid emergence of information and communication technology (ICT) has had implications for the education system and initial teacher education (ITE) in particular. This study investigated the extent to which teacher education assists student teachers in developing their professional digital competence (PDC) in general and, more specifically, their competence in using ICT responsibly. Responsible use of ICT is here taken to include privacy and copyright issues, ethical issues and the ability to evaluate digital information. To explore Norwegian student teachers’ perspectives, awareness and experience of the responsible use of ICT, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 student teachers before their practice placements at local schools and with six students after their practice placements. Overall, the findings indicate that the student teachers mostly knew how to search for and evaluate digital information, but that they tended to choose the most convenient approach for search and evaluation. Further, it seems that the student teachers were aware to some extent of how to avoid advertisements, marketing or inappropriate content when using online resources in the classroom. However, they had limited competence in dealing with privacy and copyright issues in a teaching setting. One of the challenges identified through this study is that, during practice placements, the attention seems to be on the technical aspects of ICT rather than on pedagogical or responsible ways of using ICT. The study concludes that teacher education programmes need to include responsible use of ICT as an integral part of their programme, as well as during student teachers’ practice placements in schools, rather than providing stand-alone activities or courses of limited duration.
Instrumental validity and intra/inter-rater reliability of a novel low-cost digital pressure algometer
Authors: Jerez-Mayorga Daniel , dos Anjos Carolina Fernanda , Macedo Maria de Cássia , Fernandes Ilha Gonçalves , Aedo-Muñoz Esteban , Intelangelo Leonardo , Barbosa Alexandre Carvalho
Published: October 2020

Background

Pain assessment is a key measure that accompanies treatments in a wide range of clinical settings. A low-cost valid and reliable pressure algometer would allow objective assessment of pressure pain to assist a variety of health professionals. However, the pressure algometer is often expensive, which limits its daily use in both clinical and research settings.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the instrumental validity, and the intra- and inter-rater reliability of an inexpensive digital adapted pressure algometer.

Methods

A single rater applied 60 random compressions on a force platform. The pressure pain thresholds of 20 volunteers were collected twice (3 days apart) by two raters. The main outcome measurements were as follows: the maximal peak force (in kPa) and the pressure pain threshold (adapted pressure algometer vs. force platform). Cronbach’s α test was used to assess internal consistency. The standard error of measurement provided estimates of measurement error, and the measurement bias was estimated with the Bland–Altman method, with lower and upper limits of agreement.

Results

No differences were observed when comparing the compression results (P = 0.51). The validity and internal intra-rater consistencies ranged from 0.84 to 0.99, and the standard error of measurement from 0.005 to 0.04 kPa. Very strong (r = 0.73–0.74) to near-perfect (r = 0.99) correlations were found, with a low risk of bias for all measurements. The results demonstrated the validity and intra-rater reliability of the digitally adapted pressure algometer. Inter-rater reliability results were moderate (r = 0.55–0.60; Cronbach’s α = 0.71–0.75).

Conclusion

The adapted pressure algometer provide valid and reliable measurements of pressure pain threshold. The results support more widespread use of the pressure pain threshold method among clinicians.
Искусственный интеллект и нанотехнологии: взаимосвязь и взаимовлияние, "Энергия: экономика, техника, экология"
Authors: РОМАНОВ П. С. , РОМАНОВА И.П.
Published: October 2020

В статье рассматриваются основные понятия искусственного интеллекта и нанотехнологий. Приводятся направления исследований в области искусственного интеллекта, классификация и направления развития и применения интеллектуальных систем, а также основные направления развития нанотехнологий. Анализируются взаимосвязи и взаимовлияние технологий искусственного интеллекта и нанотехнологий.
Новые данные о строении косы Долгой Азовского моря (бурение, исследование обнажений, малакофауна), "Наука Юга России"
Authors: Матишов Г.Г. , Польшин В.В. , Кулыгин В.В. , Титов В.В. , Коваленко Е.П. , Сушко К.С.
Published: October 2020

Опубликованы результаты комплексной экспедиции, проводившейся на косе Долгой (Азовское море) в июле 2020 г. Представлены данные бурения по пяти скважинам, изучения обнажений в карьерах по добыче ракушечного сырья (в настоящее время добыча не ведется) и отложений островов, расположенных к северо-западу от дистальной оконечности косы, а также аэрофотосъемки с использованием беспилотного летательного аппарата. По результатам исследований выполнена ревизия ископаемой малакофауны из отложений карьеров и кернов из пробуренных скважин. Получены данные по литологии осадочной толщи косы Долгой до глубины 20-25 м. Проведена аэрофотосъемка для последующего составления ортофотопланов и цифровых моделей рельефа. В ходе анализа космических снимков сверхвысокого (субметрового) разрешения выделены разновозрастные генерации береговых валов, слагающих аккумулятивное тело косы. На отдельных участках изучены их параметры (ширина, высота, абсолютная высотная отметка гребня вала). В качестве индикаторов различий в строении поверхностного рельефа косы при дешифрировании аэро- и космоснимков учитывались геоботанические признаки. Проведено изучение почв на различных участках косы Долгой. Отмечена важная роль микрорельефа в формировании ее почвенного и растительного покрова.
Market Research on Factors Influencing the Buying Decision on Tractors by Farmers in Adilabad District, Telangana
Authors: Kaustub Bhure , Kumar B. Ganesh , Radhika P. , Chary D. Srinivasa
Published: October 2020

Consumer makes buying decision in everything they buy in their lives. It deals from purchasing to evaluating it after purchase so, market research on factors influencing the buying decision is necessary. Hence, the study focus on buying decision on tractors by farmers and penetration level of tractors in each market segment in Adilabad district, Telangana state from January –march 2020. Garrett ranking technique and arithmetic mean were used to analyse the data. The study revealed that 5 different tractor brands of tractors, viz. Eicher, Mahindra, Swaraj, John Deere and Escorts with different models. Farmers ranked Fuel/Oil efficiency as the first factor in purchase of tractor Farmers ranked fuel/oil efficiency as the first factor in purchase of tractor followed by subsidies, maintenance cost, horse power, low priced tractor, recommendations by relatives/friends/local mechanics/dealers/company persons, brand reputation, spare parts, product appearance, service of the company, sales promotion/ gift scheme, easy availability of finance and resale value in the descending order of ranking. Dealer ranked the factors that the farmers considered in tractor purchase were subsidy followed by fuel efficiency, maintenance cost, low price, horse power, recommendation by relatives/ local mechanics/ dealers/ company persons, spare parts, recommendation of people on brand, product appearance, service of company, sales promotion/gift scheme, and resale value in the descending order of ranking. Apart from these, the sample farmers believed that 40-50 horse power segment was the most suitable segment for the selected area and it is ranked first by sample farmers. Greater than 50 horse power segment was the next suitable segment 3 per cent 30-40 horse power segment was preferred by 2 per cent of the sample farmers.
The Challenges and Management Strategies of Non-Timber Forest Products for Sustainability in Nguti Sub Division, South West Region, Cameroon
Authors: Blandine Ngambong Ngwafu Tita , Ngalim Robert Njilla Mengnjo , Frederick Nfor
Published: October 2020

Nguti is one of the three Sub-divisions in Kupe Muanenguba Division of the South West Region of Cameroon. This Sub-division is endowed with great potentials and diversity in Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) resulting from the eco-floristic composition within the sub-division. The objective of this study is to investigate the challenges that are plaguing the exploitation of NTFPs and present management options for sustainability. Secondary data were collected from published and unpublished sources whereas primary data tools included questionnaires, interviews and participant observations. Findings showed that Nguti Sub-division has endowed with enormous forest entities and rich in several NTFPs ranging from nuts, seeds, barks, leaves, trees and roots as well as several species of bush meat. Five major challenges viz. transformation and storage, government policies and customary regulations, depletion and scarcity of resources, deforestation and poaching as well as population pressure and agricultural activities were observe which attributed in reducing quantity and quality of these resources. For sustainable harvesting and management of these resources, cottage industry must be developed and promoted along with cultivation or domestication of these NTFPs, market chain should be monitored and certain government policies should be framed to regularize harvest and methods of extraction. Controlling of deforestation, poaching, agricultural activities and generating new alternative sources of income will certainly reduce the pressure meted on the available resources in the forest.
Binomial Transform of the Generalized Tribonacci Sequence
Authors: Soykan Y¨uksel
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we define the binomial transform of the generalized Tribonacci sequence and as special cases, the binomial transform of the Tribonacci, Tribonacci-Lucas, Tribonacci-Perrin, modified Tribonacci, modified Tribonacci-Lucas and adjusted Tribonacci-Lucas sequences will be introduced. We investigate their properties in details. We present Binet’s formulas, generating functions, Simson formulas, and the summation formulas for these binomial transforms. Moreover, we give some identities and matrices related with these binomial transforms.
Extent of Adoption of Vegetable Production Practices by Vegetable Growers in Medak District of Telangana
Authors: Savitha B. , Srinivas C.
Published: October 2020

The study was conducted in four villages of Mulugu mandal of Medak district of Telangana to assess the extent of adoption of recommended vegetable production practices and safety measures in handling pesticides by the vegetable growers. An interview schedule was prepared for collection data pertaining to the adoption of practices by the respondents. From the study, it could be concluded that, the with respect to the adoption, majority of the farmers (64.00%) fell under medium category of adoption followed by high (20.00%) and low (16.00%) categories. When practice wise adoption was assessed it was revealed that, majority of the farmers (76.00%) adopted plant protection practices followed by recommendations pertaining to the selection of seeds & sowing methods & time (72.00%) and application of manures and fertilizers (70.00%). Further, farmers opined that, powdery mildew; Helicoverpa, Spodoptera and Jassids were the important pests occur in vegetables. While coming to the safe handling of pesticides farmers opined that, they are taking personal protection measures like, use of face mask, gloves and turban while spraying of pesticides.
The Effect of Soil Poissons Ratio on the Response of Buildings with Sufficient Embedment Depth
Authors: Essawy Ahmed Hafiz Yasseen
Published: October 2020

The present study highlights the effect of soil poissons ratio on the response of buildings with sufficient embedment depth. The interaction effect between the structure and its foundation control the dynamic behavior of the structure during seismic analysis. Not only the foundation of structure control the results of seismic analysis but also the embedment depth of the structure increase this effect. The ground motions produced by the seismic excitation at the base of the building are the result of shear deformation in the soil. The effect of the inertial resistance of soil surrounding the basement floors is taken into consideration by adding virtual masses to the basement floors to obtain more accurate shear forces acting on the flexible basement columns. The study calculates the response values at any required time and the maximum response values in addition to its time of occurrence.
Analysis of Ethylene Glycol (EG)-based ((Cu-Al2O3), (Cu-TiO2), (TiO2-Al2O3)) Hybrid Nanofluids for Optimal Car Radiator Coolant
Authors: Okello J. A. , Mutuku W. N. , Oyem A. O.
Published: October 2020

Coolants are vital in any automotive since they manage the heat in the internal combustion of the engines by preventing corrosion in the cooling system as well as assist in eradicating the engine’s waste heat. This paper examines three different types of ethylene glycol-based hybrid nanofluids ((Cu-Al2O3), (Cu-TiO2), (TiO2-Al2O3)) to establish their cooling capabilities for industrial cooling applications. The vertical flow of these hybrid nanofluids combination through a semi-infinite convectively heated flat plate mimicking the flow of coolant in car radiator is modeled. The governing non-linear partial differential equations of fluid flow are transformed into a system of coupled non-linear ordinary differential equations using a suitable similarity transformation variables and the numerical solution executed using the shooting technique together with the fourth-order Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg integration scheme. The numerical simulation is executed using MATLAB and results are displayed graphically. The effects of pertinent parameters on velocity, temperature, skin friction, and local Nusselt number are investigated. From the study (Cu-Al2O3  hybrid nanocoolant leads to a rapid decrease in temperature at the boundary layer.
Advances and Trends in Chemically Doped Graphene
Authors: Ullah Sami , Shi Qitao , Zhou Junhua , Yang Xiaoqin , Ta Huy Q. , Hasan Maria , Ahmad Nasir Mahmood , Fu Lei , Bachmatiuk Alicja , Rümmeli Mark H.
Published: October 2020

Chemically doped graphene materials are fascinating because these have different desirable attributes with possible synergy. The inert and gapless nature of graphene can be changed by adding a small number of heteroatoms to substitute carbon in the lattice. The doped material may display superior catalytic activities; durable, fast, and selective sensing; improved magnetic moments; photoresponses; and activity in chemical reactions. In the current review, recent advances are covered in chemically doped graphene. First, the different types of heteroatoms, their bonding configurations, and briefly their properties are discussed. This is followed by the description of various synthesis and analytical methods essential for assessing the characteristics of heterographene with specific focus on the selected graphene materials of different dopants (particularly, single dopants, including N, B, S, P, first three halogens, Ge, and Ga, and codopants, such as N/O), and more importantly, up‐to‐date applications enabled by the intentional doping. Finally, outlook and perspectives section review the existing challenges, future opportunities, and possible ways to improve the graphitic materials. The goal is to update and inspire the readers to establish novel doped graphene with valuable properties and for current and futuristic applications.
Benzyl Palladium Intermediates: Unique and Versatile Reactive Intermediates for Aromatic Functionalization
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Yamamoto Yoshinori , Bao Ming
Published: October 2020

Aromatic functionalizations are of current interest and importance in organic chemistry, recent transition‐metal catalyzed reactions can transform inert C−H bond into C−X (X=C, O, N, etc.) bonds, greatly enriching aromatic chemistry and related fields. Some well‐known palladium‐containing intermediates such as palladacycles and allylpalladium intermediates play an important role in organic conversions. Similar with allyl group, benzyl group also possesses the capability of stabilizing palladium through η3‐binding. In the process of the formation of benzyl palladium intermediate, there is a transition state of dearomatization. Therefore, it is a challenging and meaningful research topic to seize these aromatic destruction intermediates, realize selective functionalization reaction on aromatic ring via them, and inhibit the formation of traditional benzylated products. Herein, we summarized the recent efforts on expanding the synthetic utility, as well as exploring the mechanism in aromatic functionalization via reactive benzyl palladium intermediates. We envision that the transformation via benzyl palladium intermediates will help promote the development in the field of palladium–catalyzed aromatic regioselective functionalization.

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Revealing and Elucidating ALD‐Derived Control of Lithium Plating Microstructure
Authors: Oyakhire Solomon T. , Huang William , Wang Hansen , Boyle David T. , Schneider Joel R. , de Paula Camila , Wu Yecun , Cui Yi , Bent Stacey F.
Published: October 2020

The practical implementation of Li metal batteries is hindered by difficulties in controlling the Li metal plating microstructure. While previous atomic layer deposition (ALD) studies have focused on directly coating Li metal with thin films for the passivation of the electrode–electrolyte interface, a different approach is adopted, situating the ALD film beneath Li metal and directly on the copper current collector. A mechanistic explanation for this simple strategy of controlling the Li metal plating microstructure using TiO2 grown on copper foil by ALD is presented. In contrast to previous studies where ALD‐grown layers act as artificial interphases, this TiO2 layer resides at the copper–Li metal interface, acting as a nucleation layer to improve the Li metal plating morphology. Upon lithiation of TiO2, a LixTiO2 complex forms; this alloy provides a lithiophilic surface layer that enables uniform and reversible Li plating. The reversibility of lithium deposition is evident from the champion cell (5 nm TiO2), which displays an average Coulombic efficiency (CE) of 96% after 150 cycles at a moderate current density of 1 mA cm−2. This simple approach provides the first account of the mechanism of ALD‐derived Li nucleation control and suggests new possibilities for future ALD‐synthesized nucleation layers.
The effectiveness and safety of sofosbuvir‐ledipasvir for patients with hepatitis C virus genotype 2 infection
Authors: Chen Po‐Yueh , Yang Hsin‐Yi , Chou Chu‐Kuang , Chang Li‐Jen , Hsu Ming‐Tse , Tsai Tsung‐Jung , Fang Chien‐Chung , Su Chang‐Chao , Lin Yu‐Ling , Feng Yu‐Ming , Chen Chi‐Yi
Published: October 2020

Sofosbuvir‐ledipasvir (SOF/LDV) had been proved to achieve high sustained virologic response (SVR) rate for patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 infection. As for patients with HCV genotype 2 (HCV‐2) infection, SOF combined with weight‐based ribavirin was recommended based on earlier guidelines. In Asia‐Pacific region, the pooled analysis of three clinical studies in Taiwan, Japan, and New Zeeland, respectively, revealed that the SVR12 rate of SOF/LDV for with HCV‐2 infected patients without decompensated cirrhosis could be higher than 95%. Based on these results, SOF/LDV had been reimbursed for treating patients with HCV‐2 infection since Oct 2018 in Taiwan. The aim of our study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of SOF/LDV for HCV‐2 infected patients. A total of 298 HCV‐2 infected patients without decompensated cirrhosis who received SOF/LDV for 12 weeks in Chia‐Yi Christian Hospital between January 2019 and December 2019 were retrospectively enrolled in this study. The effectiveness was defined as SVR at 12 weeks off treatment (SVR12). The SVR12 rates of different categorical patients were also assessed. Adverse effects, laboratory abnormalities, and evolution of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were evaluated. The SVR12 rate of SOF/LDV for 12 weeks in HCV‐2 infected patient without decompensated cirrhosis was 98.3% (293/298, 95% CI: 96.1%‐99.3%) and 99.3% (293/295, 95% CI: 97.6%‐99.8%) in intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol analysis, respectively. None had premature discontinuity of drugs induced by serious adverse effect in our study. The worsening of eGFR from baseline to 12 weeks off treatment was found in CKD‐staged 1 patients with a quadratic trend. SOF in combination with ledipasvir (SOF/LDV) for 12 weeks could provide good SVR12 rate with good tolerability for HCV‐2 infected patients without decompensated cirrhosis.
Katalysatorkontrollierte regiodivergente C‐H‐Alkinylierung von Thiophenen**
Authors: Mondal Arup , van Gemmeren Manuel
Published: October 2020

Alkine sind aufgrund ihres Vorkommens in Naturstoffen und bioaktiven Molekülen sowie ihrer vielseitigen Verwendbarkeit in einer Fülle anschließender Umwandlungen ein hochattraktives Motiv in der organischen Synthese. Ein übliches Verfahren zur Einführung von Alkinen in (Hetero‐)Arenen wie den hier behandelten Thiophenen beruht auf deren Halogenierung, gefolgt von einer Sonogashira‐Kreuzkupplung. Die Regioselektivität dieser Methode hängt ausschließlich vom Halogenierungsschritt ab. Zudem wurden direkte Alkinylierungen von Thiophenen beschrieben, die den gleichen Regioselektivitätsmustern folgen. Wir berichten hier von der Entwicklung einer Palladium‐katalysierten C‐H‐Aktivierung/Alkinylierung von Thiophenen. Die Methode lässt sich auf ein breites Spektrum an Thiophensubstraten anwenden. Bei 3‐substituierten Substraten, wo die Kontrolle der Regioselektivität zwischen der C2‐ und der C5‐Position besonders schwierig ist, ermöglichen zwei Sätze von Reaktionsbedingungen eine regiodivergente Reaktion und somit den selektiven Zugang zum jeweiligen Regioisomer. Beide Vorschriften verwenden das Thiophen als limitierendes Reagenz und zeigen ein breites Substratspektrum, wodurch sich unsere Methode zur Modifizierung fortgeschrittener Syntheseintermediate eignet.
Methyl orange degradation enhanced by hydrogen spillover onto platinum nanocatalyst surface
Authors: Ilunga Ali K. , Mamba Bhekie B. , Nkambule Thabo T.I.
Published: October 2020

Following a thermal reduction method, platinum nanoparticles were synthesized and stabilized by polyvinylpyrrolidone. The colloidal platinum nanoparticles were stable for more than 3 months. The micrograph analysis unveiled that the colloidal platinum nanoparticles were well dispersed with an average size of 2.53 nm. The sol–gel‐based inverse micelle strategy was applied to synthesize mesoporous iron oxide material. The colloidal platinum nanoparticles were deposited on mesoporous iron oxide through the capillary inclusion method. The small‐angle X‐ray scattering analysis indicated that the dimension of platinum nanoparticles deposited on mesoporous iron oxide (Pt‐Fe2O3) was 2.64 nm. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data showed that the binding energy on Pt‐Fe2O3 surface decreased owing to mesoporous support–nanoparticle interaction. Both colloidal and deposited platinum nanocatalysts improved the degradation of methyl orange under reduction conditions. The activation energy on the deposited platinum nanocatalyst interface (2.66 kJ mol−1) was significantly lowered compared with the one on the colloidal platinum nanocatalyst interface (40.63 ± 0.53 kJ mol−1).
Improvement of melt stability and degradation efficiency of poly (lactic acid) by using phosphite
Authors: Sirisinha Kalyanee , Samana Klanarong
Published: October 2020

Concurrent improvement of melt processing stability and degradation efficiency of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is still a challenge for the industry. This article presents the use of phosphites: tris(nonylphenyl) phosphite (TNPP) and tris (2,4‐di‐tert‐butylphenyl) phosphite (TDBP), to control the thermal stabilization, mechanical performance, and hydrolytic degradation ability of the compressed PLA films. The hydrolysis process is followed as a function of time at 45, 60, and 75°C. During melt extrusion, both phosphites function as a processing aid, besides acting as a chain extender stabilizing the PLA molecular weight. The phosphite structure plays a crucial role over crystallinity and water absorption, in controlling the hydrolytic degradation of PLA. The application of TNPP significantly catalyzes the hydrolysis of PLA, which is the initial step of the biodegradation process. The optimum amount of TNPP for best hydrolytic degradation efficiency and thermal stabilization of PLA is 0.5 wt%. The excessive TNPP loadings cause a drastic drop in PLA molecular weight and, as a consequence, a reduction of flexural strength. The reactions between PLA and phosphite molecules are discussed.
Effects of hygrothermal aging on the thermomechanical properties of a carbon fiber reinforced epoxy sheet molding compound: An experimental research
Authors: Zulueta Kepa , Burgoa Aizeti , Martínez Iñaki
Published: October 2020

Carbon fiber sheet molding compounds (C‐SMCs) are discontinuous fiber reinforced composite materials. Among them, epoxy‐based C‐SMCs are becoming relevant materials due to their high thermomechanical performance and better formability than continuous fiber reinforced composites. The thermomechanical performance of epoxy resins and epoxy based continuous carbon fiber composites have shown to be influenced by hygrothermal aging. In this work, this influence is studied for an epoxy‐based C‐SMC. Epoxy‐based C‐SMC samples were hygrothermally aged by means of accelerated conditioning, exposing them to 65% relative humidity, and 80°C in a climatic chamber. The equilibrium moisture content, as well as the moisture diffusion coefficient has been determined. The thermomechanical properties of epoxy C‐SMC have been analyzed by dynamic mechanical analysis, tensile, 3‐point bending, and short beam tests in dry and aged samples. The results showed that epoxy C‐SMC is affected by hygrothermal aging in the cases of moisture intake and its effects on Tg value, but interestingly, the hygrothermal aging did not generate any degradation effects in the mechanical response of epoxy C‐SMC.
Exploring the Relationship between Prosodic Control and Social Competence in Children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Scheerer Nichole E. , Jones Jeffery A. , Iarocci Grace
Published: October 2020

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction. Speech is an important form of social communication. Prosody (e.g. vocal pitch, rhythm, etc.), one aspect of the speech signal, is crucial for ensuring information about the emotionality, excitability, and intent of the speaker, is accurately expressed. The objective of this study was to gain a better understanding of how auditory information is used to regulate speech prosody in autistic and non‐autistic children, while exploring the relationship between the prosodic control of speech and social competence. Eighty autistic (M = 8.48 years, SD = 2.55) and non‐autistic (M = 7.36 years, SD = 2.51) participants produced vocalizations while exposed to unaltered and frequency altered auditory feedback. The parent‐report Multidimensional Social Competence Scale was used to assess social competence, while the Autism‐Spectrum Quotient and the Autism Spectrum Rating Scales were used to assess autism characteristics. Results indicate that vocal response magnitudes and vocal variability were similar across autistic and non‐autistic children. However, autistic children produced significantly faster responses to the auditory feedback manipulation. Hierarchical multiple regressions indicated that these faster responses were significantly associated with poorer parent‐rated social competence and higher autism characteristics. These findings suggest that prosodic speech production differences are present in at least a subgroup of autistic children. These results represent a key step in understanding how atypicalities in the mechanisms supporting speech production may manifest in social‐communication deficits, as well as broader social competence, and vice versa. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1880‐1892. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research and Wiley Periodicals LLC

Lay Summary

In this study, autistic and non‐autistic children produced vowel sounds while listening to themselves through headphones. When the children heard their vocal pitch shifted upward or downward, they compensated by shifting their vocal pitch in the opposite direction. Interestingly, autistic children were faster to correct for the perceived vowel sound changes than their typically developing peers. Faster responses in the children with ASD were linked to poorer ratings of their social abilities by their parent. These results suggest that autistic and non‐autistic children show differences in how quickly they control their speech, and these differences may be related to the social challenges experienced by autistic children.
Effect of perioperative intravenous lidocaine on the incidence of short‐term cognitive function after noncardiac surgery: A meta‐analysis based on randomized controlled trials
Authors: Huang Xiao , Sun Yuan , Lin Dandan , Wei Changwei , Wu Anshi
Published: October 2020

Objectives

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction is a debilitating postoperative complication. The perioperative neuroprotective effect of lidocaine has conflicting results.

Methods

In this qualitative review of randomized controlled clinical trials on the perioperative use of lidocaine, we report the effects of intravenous lidocaine on brain function after noncardiac surgery. Studies were identified from PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Central Register.

Results

Of the 453 retrieved studies, 4 randomized trials were included. No significant association between the use of lidocaine postoperative cognitive states was found (risk ratio 0.67; 95% CI −0.02 to 1.36; I289%; p = .06).

Conclusions

Current evidence cannot suggest that perioperative intravenous use of lidocaine has pharmacological brain neuroprotection after noncardiac surgery. All the included studies were small‐scale research, and the total number of participants was small; the results should be interpreted with caution.
Pd‐Catalyzed Ortho‐Directed C—H Glycosylation of Arenes Using N‐linked Bidentate Auxiliaries
Authors: Wang Quanquan , Zhu Wanjun , Sun Qikai , He Gang , Chen Gong
Published: October 2020

Main observation and conclusion

A set of Pd‐catalyzed ortho‐directed C—H glycosylation reactions with glycosyl chloride donors using various N‐linked bidentate auxiliaries has been developed for synthesis of C‐aryl glycosides. A broad range of pyranose and furanose moieties can be installed on the ortho position of arylamine, carbazole, indole and benzylamine type substrates in high yield and with high regio‐ and diastereoselectivity. These auxiliaries can be readily installed and removed under relatively mild conditions.
Optimization, validation, and comparison of a rapid method for the quantification of insulin‐like growth factor 1 in serum using liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Seo Yoondam , Park Jisoo , Kim Minyoung , Sung Changmin , Kwon Oh‐Seung , Lee Hwa Jeong , Min Hophil
Published: October 2020

Human insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐I) is the primary mediator of the effects of the growth hormone (GH). Therefore, it has been used as a biomarker to detect the abuse of GH in sports. The measurement of IGF‐I relies on mass‐based and immunological approaches to analysis. Among the mass‐based analysis methods, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) has a number of functional advantages. LC–MS measurements based on the quantification of IGF‐I, according to trypsin digestion, are used in the most common method of analyzing doping. However, this method is time‐consuming and subject to experimental variability.

In this study, we optimized a rapid method for detecting IGF‐I without the trypsin digestion step. This method of analysis uses an ultra‐centrifugal filter and an LC‐HRMS through narrow‐range mass scan method. To verify the validity of this method, eight categories of validation testing were applied with the following results: linearity, R2 > 0.99; limit of detection, 15 ng/ml; limit of quantification, 20 ng/ml; accuracy, >99%; recovery rate, >95%; carryover, <0.03; and inter‐ and intra‐day precision values, %CV < 2% and %CV < 6%, respectively. Furthermore, we discussed the correlation of the quantified concentration from two other methods, immunoradiometric assay (IRMA) and parallel reaction monitoring method, using 209 serum samples. In conclusion, although both mass spectrometry‐based methods worked equally well in terms of analytical performance and correlation with IRMA results, narrow‐range mass scan method had several advantages, such as time and cost savings and reliable reproducibility, over the existing methods.
Reduction in the metabolic levels due to phenotypic plasticity in the Pyrenean newt, Calotriton asper, during cave colonization
Authors: Guillaume Olivier , Deluen Marine , Raffard Allan , Calvez Olivier , Trochet Audrey
Published: October 2020

According to theories on cave adaptation, cave organisms are expected to develop a lower metabolic rate compared to surface organisms as an adaptation to food scarcity in the subterranean environments. To test this hypothesis, we compared the oxygen consumption rates of the surface and subterranean populations of a surface‐dwelling species, the newt Calotriton asper, occasionally found in caves. In this study, we designed a new experimental setup in which animals with free movement were monitored for several days in a respirometer. First, we measured the metabolic rates of individuals from the surface and subterranean populations, both maintained for eight years in captivity in a natural cave. We then tested individuals from these populations immediately after they were caught and one year later while being maintained in the cave. We found that the surface individuals that acclimated to the cave significantly reduced their oxygen consumption, whereas individuals from the subterranean population maintained in the cave under a light/dark cycle did not significantly modify their metabolic rates. Second, we compared these metabolic rates to those of an obligate subterranean salamander (Proteus anguinus), a surface aquatic Urodel (Ambystoma mexicanum), and a fish species (Gobio occitaniae) as references for surface organisms from different phyla. As predicted, we found differences between the subterranean and surface species, and the metabolic rates of surface and subterranean C. asper populations were between those of the obligate subterranean and surface species. These results suggest that the plasticity of the metabolism observed in surface C. asper was neither directly due to food availability in our experiments nor the light/dark conditions, but due to static temperatures. Moreover, we suggest that this adjustment of the metabolic level at a temperature close to the thermal optimum may further allow individual species to cope with the food limitations of the subterranean environment.
Electrochemical Monitoring of Subcutaneous Tissue pO2 Fluctuations during Exercise Using a Semi‐implantable Needle Electrode
Authors: Anastasova Salzitsa , Spehar‐Délèze Anna‐Maria , Kwasnicki Richard Mark , Yang Guang‐Zhong , Vadgama Pankaj
Published: October 2020

Semi‐implantable needle oxygen electrodes were used for forearm subcutaneous monitoring in human subjects undertaking high intensity cycling and fist clenching exercise. pO2 variations in the range between 40 and 100 mm Hg oxygen were seen. Superimposed on these were paradoxical rises in subcutaneous pO2, of up to 100 mm Hg which paralleled the scale of the exercise. This was indicative of increased blood flow through skin. Triton X‐100 incorporated into the sensor polyurethane membranes helped to give faster responses and reduced the possibility of biofouling and drift. The sterilizable system, free from internal electrolyte film appears promising for future clinical monitoring.
Clarifying the unique effects of pre‐ and postnatal depression on pre‐schoolers' adjustment
Authors: Thompson Stephanie F. , Klein Melanie R. , Ruberry Erika J. , Kiff Cara J. , Moran Lyndsey , Zalewski Maureen , Lengua Liliana J.
Published: October 2020

This study investigated the possible unique effects of pre‐and postnatal maternal depressive symptoms in relation to parenting and children's effortful control in predicting children's adjustment. Contextual risk factors (income, negative life events) were modelled. Mothers and children (N = 306) were assessed four times, including T1 maternal reports of depressive symptoms, T2 observed parenting, T3 behavioural measures of effortful control, and T4 teacher ratings of children's outcomes. Pre‐ and postnatal contextual risk predicted maternal depression and child adjustment directly. Post‐ but not prenatal depressive symptoms predicted parenting behaviours. Pre‐ but not postnatal depressive symptoms predicted children's adjustment. Results suggest that pre‐ and postnatal maternal depressive symptoms are uniquely associated with parenting and child outcomes.

This study asks if pre‐ and postnatal depressive symptoms effect children's adjustment through mothers' parenting and children's subsequent self‐regulation.

Multiple methods were utilized and showed that postnatal depressive symptoms predict parenting while prenatal depressive symptoms predict adjustment.

Pre‐ and postnatal maternal depressive symptoms are uniquely associated with parenting and child outcomes.
Intra‐cardiac lidocaine administration to induce fetal demise before late second‐trimester abortion: Retrospective review
Authors: Tolu Lemi Belay , Tufa Tesfaye H. , Abas Ferid , Kahn Chavi , MacAfee Lauren , Prager Sarah , Bell Jason D.
Published: October 2020

Objective

To determine the efficacy and safety of intra‐cardiac lidocaine administration to induce fetal demise before second‐trimester medication abortion in a teaching hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review to collect selected sociodemographic and clinical information. All patients who received fetal intra‐cardiac lidocaine between January 1, 2019 and April 30, 2019 were included in the study. Fetal demise was considered successful if achieved within 24 hours after fetal intra‐cardiac lidocaine administration. We analyzed the data using SPSS version 20. We used frequency tables to describe the data and performed a multivariable analysis to determine associations between variables.

Results

A total of 80 fetuses were given intra‐cardiac lidocaine.The mean gestational age was 23+1 weeks (range 21+0–27+5 weeks). Twenty‐four hours after lidocaine administration 76 (95%) pregnancies showed negative fetal cardiac activity. Fetuses at gestational ages of 21–23+6 weeks were five times more likely to have negative cardiac activity compared with those with gestational ages between 24 and 28 weeks (P=0.001). Two women developed nausea, vomiting, and a metallic taste, but no serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Intra‐cardiac lidocaine is effective at inducing fetal demise before late second‐trimester medication abortion with no associated serious adverse events or complications.
Testing for correlation in error‐component models
Authors: Jochmans Koen
Published: October 2020

This paper concerns linear models for grouped data with group‐specific effects. We construct a portmanteau test for the null of no within‐group correlation beyond that induced by the group‐specific effect. The approach allows for heteroskedasticity and is applicable to models with exogenous, predetermined, or endogenous regressors. The test can be implemented as soon as three observations per group are available and is applicable to unbalanced data. A test with such general applicability is not available elsewhere. We provide theoretical results on size and power under asymptotics where the number of groups grows but their size is held fixed. Extensive power comparisons with other tests available in the literature for special cases of our setup reveal that our test compares favorably. In a simulation study we find that, under heteroskedasticity, only our procedure yields a test that is both size correct and powerful. In a large data set on mothers with multiple births we find that infant birthweight is correlated across children even after controlling for mother fixed effects and a variety of prenatal care factors. This suggests that such a strategy may be inadequate to take care of all confounding factors that correlate with the mother's decision to engage in activities that are detrimental to the infant's health, such as smoking.
MiR‐1696/GPx3 axis is involved in oxidative stress mediated neutrophil extracellular traps inhibition in chicken neutrophils
Authors: Yang Zijiang , Wang Shengchen , Yin Kai , Zhang Qiaojian , Li Shu
Published: October 2020

As an important immune mechanism of neutrophils, the release of Web‐like chromatin structures known as neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) can rapidly locate and capture invading pathogens, which has received sustained attention. There are still some fundamental questions surrounding established studies on the mechanism of balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) dependent release and neutrophil antioxidant response. Glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPx3) is an important antioxidant protein and has been identified can regulate the immune response. However, the effect of GPx3 on the NETs formation and microRNA in this process remain poorly understood. In the present study, we used chicken peripheral blood neutrophils treated with Phorbol‐12‐myristate‐13‐acetate (PMA) for 3 h as NETs formation model. The result of morphological observation showed that GPx3 inactivation compromised the release of NETs. Further analysis revealed that knockdown of GPx3 significantly disturbed oxidative balance by inhibiting antioxidant enzymes activity and increasing H2O2 content. Quantitative analysis of NETs‐related genes found that the phosphorylation level of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway genes (ERK, JNK, and p38) and expression of phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway genes (PI3K and AKT) were suppressed with the downregulation of GPx3. Meanwhile, we identified that miR‐1696 can target GPx3 expression by using dual luciferase reporter system. Additionally, overexpression of miR‐1696 can not only inhibit the formation of NETs by restraining the expression of GPx3, interfering with the generation of ROS and activation of the MAPK and PI3K/AKT pathways, but also reducing the release of PMA‐induced NETs promoted by overexpression of GPx3. These results provide evidence that miR‐1696 targeted GPx3 activities in neutrophils could be used to regulate the NETs formation stimulated by PMA.
Cultural settings and recommendations for small towns and villages to visit in China
Authors: Wen Xiaojing (Rachael) , White Paul
Published: October 2020

The contexts within which websites are created are significant in determining recommendations for places to visit. Comparison is made here between recommendations for visits to rural China made by web sites authored in that country and by sites authored in Europe. Some similarities occur, but justifications for visiting differ. China‐authored sites use cultural and historical reasons for recommendations, and are made in the context of official policies for tourist development. Europe‐authored websites emphasize the aesthetics of scenic settings and the built environment. The cultural mentalities of web authors influence the information they provide to potential tourists.