bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fair algorithms for selecting citizens’ assemblies
Authors: Flanigan Bailey , Gölz Paul , Gupta Anupam , Hennig Brett , Procaccia Ariel D.
Published: August 2021

Globally, there has been a recent surge in ‘citizens’ assemblies’1, which are a form of civic participation in which a panel of randomly selected constituents contributes to questions of policy. The random process for selecting this panel should satisfy two properties. First, it must produce a panel that is representative of the population. Second, in the spirit of democratic equality, individuals would ideally be selected to serve on this panel with equal probability2,3. However, in practice these desiderata are in tension owing to differential participation rates across subpopulations4,5. Here we apply ideas from fair division to develop selection algorithms that satisfy the two desiderata simultaneously to the greatest possible extent: our selection algorithms choose representative panels while selecting individuals with probabilities as close to equal as mathematically possible, for many metrics of ‘closeness to equality’. Our implementation of one such algorithm has already been used to select more than 40 citizens’ assemblies around the world. As we demonstrate using data from ten citizens’ assemblies, adopting our algorithm over a benchmark representing the previous state of the art leads to substantially fairer selection probabilities. By contributing a fairer, more principled and deployable algorithm, our work puts the practice of sortition on firmer foundations. Moreover, our work establishes citizens’ assemblies as a domain in which insights from the field of fair division can lead to high-impact applications.
The structural basis of odorant recognition in insect olfactory receptors
Authors: del Mármol Josefina , Yedlin Mackenzie A. , Ruta Vanessa
Published: August 2021

Olfactory systems must detect and discriminate amongst an enormous variety of odorants1. To contend with this challenge, diverse species have converged on a common strategy in which odorant identity is encoded through the combinatorial activation of large families of olfactory receptors1–3, thus allowing a finite number of receptors to detect a vast chemical world. Here we offer structural and mechanistic insight into how an individual olfactory receptor can flexibly recognize diverse odorants. We show that the olfactory receptor MhOR5 from the jumping bristletail4Machilis hrabei assembles as a homotetrameric odorant-gated ion channel with broad chemical tuning. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we elucidated the structure of MhOR5 in multiple gating states, alone and in complex with two of its agonists—the odorant eugenol and the insect repellent DEET. Both ligands are recognized through distributed hydrophobic interactions within the same geometrically simple binding pocket located in the transmembrane region of each subunit, suggesting a structural logic for the promiscuous chemical sensitivity of this receptor. Mutation of individual residues lining the binding pocket predictably altered the sensitivity of MhOR5 to eugenol and DEET and broadly reconfigured the receptor’s tuning. Together, our data support a model in which diverse odorants share the same structural determinants for binding, shedding light on the molecular recognition mechanisms that ultimately endow the olfactory system with its immense discriminatory capacity.
Lower crustal resistivity signature of an orogenic gold system
Authors: Heinson Graham , Duan Jingming , Kirkby Alison , Robertson Kate , Thiel Stephan , Aivazpourporgou Sasha , Soyer Wolfgang
Published: August 2021

Orogenic gold deposits provide a significant source of the world’s gold and form along faults over a wide range of crustal depths spanning sub-greenschist to granulite grade faces, but the source depths of the gold remains poorly understood. In this paper we compiled thirty years of long-period magnetotelluric (MT) and geomagnetic depth sounding (GDS) data across western Victoria and south-eastern South Australia that have sensitivity to the electrical resistivity of the crust and mantle, which in turn depend on past thermal and fluid processes. This region contains one of the world’s foremost and largest Phanerozoic (440 Ma) orogenic gold provinces that has produced 2% of historic worldwide gold production. Three-dimensional inversion of the long-period MT and GDS data shows a remarkable correlation between orogenic gold deposits with > 1 t production and a < 20 Ω m low-resistivity region at crustal depths > 20 km. This low-resistivity region is consistent with seismically-imaged tectonically thickened marine sediments in the Lachlan Orogen that contain organic carbon (C), sulphides such as pyrite (FeS2) and colloidal gold (Au). Additional heat sources at 440 Ma due to slab break-off after subduction have been suggested to rapidly increase the temperature of the marine sediments at mid to lower crustal depth, releasing HS− ligands for Au, and CO2. We argue that the low electrical resistivity signature of the lower crust we see today is from a combination of flake graphite produced in situ from the amphibolite grade metamorphism of organic-carbon in the marine sediments, and precipitated graphite through retrograde hydration reactions of CO2 released during the rapid heating of the sediments. Thus, these geophysical data image a fossil source and pathway zone for one of the world’s richest orogenic gold provinces.
Avian vampire fly (Philornis downsi) mortality differs across Darwin’s finch host species
Authors: Common Lauren K. , Sumasgutner Petra , Dudaniec Rachael Y. , Colombelli-Négrel Diane , Kleindorfer Sonia
Published: August 2021

In invasive parasites, generalism is considered advantageous during the initial phase of introduction. Thereafter, fitness costs to parasites, such as host-specific mortality, can drive parasites towards specialism to avoid costly hosts. It is important to determine changes in host specificity of invasive populations to understand host-parasite dynamics and their effects on vulnerable host populations. We examined changes in mortality in the introduced avian vampire fly (Philornis downsi) (Diptera: Muscidae), a generalist myasis-causing ectoparasite, between 2004 and 2020 on Floreana Island (Galápagos). Mortality was measured as the proportion of immature larvae found upon host nest termination. Over the time period, the avian vampire fly was most abundant and had low mortality in nests of the critically endangered medium tree finch (Camarhynchus pauper) and had the highest mortality in nests of hybrid tree finches (Camarhynchus spp.). Low larval mortality was also found in small tree (Camarhynchus parvulus) and small ground finch (Geospiza fuliginosa) nests. Selection could favour avian vampire flies that select medium tree finch nests and/or avoid hybrid nests. Overall, the finding of differences in avian vampire fly survival across host species is parsimonious with the idea that the introduced fly may be evolving towards host specialisation.
Umbilical cord blood therapy modulates neonatal hypoxic ischemic brain injury in both females and males
Authors: Penny Tayla R. , Pham Yen , Sutherland Amy E. , Lee Joohyung , Jenkin Graham , Fahey Michael C. , Miller Suzanne L. , McDonald Courtney A.
Published: August 2021

Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that sex is a significant risk factor for perinatal morbidity and mortality, with males being more susceptible to neonatal hypoxic ischemic (HI) brain injury. No study has investigated sexual dimorphism in the efficacy of umbilical cord blood (UCB) cell therapy. HI injury was induced in postnatal day 10 (PND10) rat pups using the Rice-Vannucci method of carotid artery ligation. Pups received 3 doses of UCB cells (PND11, 13, 20) and underwent behavioural testing. On PND50, brains were collected for immunohistochemical analysis. Behavioural and neuropathological outcomes were assessed for sex differences. HI brain injury resulted in a significant decrease in brain weight and increase in tissue loss in females and males. Females and males also exhibited significant cell death, region-specific neuron loss and long-term behavioural deficits. Females had significantly smaller brains overall compared to males and males had significantly reduced neuron numbers in the cortex compared to females. UCB administration improved multiple aspects of neuropathology and functional outcomes in males and females. Females and males both exhibited injury following HI. This is the first preclinical evidence that UCB is an appropriate treatment for neonatal brain injury in both female and male neonates.
The role of caloric intake in the association of high salt intake with high blood pressure
Authors: Stern Naftali , Buch Assaf , Goldsmith Rebecca , Nitsan Lesley , Margaliot Miri , Endevelt Ronit , Marcus Yonit , Shefer Gabi , Grotto Itamar
Published: August 2021

Since current recommendations call for a substantial reduction in overall sodium consumption, we tested whether or not these recommendations are implemented in common large subpopulations such as those with abnormal weight or hypertension in the current high sodium, high-calorie nutritional environment. In a national representative cross-sectional survey of the community-dwelling subjects aged 25–65 years conducted in Israel between 2015 and 2017, 582 randomly selected subjects completed health and dietary questionnaires, underwent blood pressure and anthropometric measurements and collected 24-h urine specimens, to assess dietary sodium intake. Overall mean 24-h sodium excretion was 3834 mg, more than double the recommended upper intake for adults < 1500 mg/day. Sodium excretion was directly related to caloric intake and blood pressure and linked to the presence of hypertension and overweight/obesity. The highest sodium excretion was seen in overweight/obese hypertensive subjects. This recent national survey shows a high consumption of sodium in the Israeli population and a dose–response association between caloric intake and urinary sodium excretion, independent of BMI and hypertension. Nevertheless, overweight/obese subjects with hypertension consume (excrete) more sodium than other BMI/ blood pressure-related phenotypes and may thus comprise a target subpopulation for future efforts to reduce sodium intake.
A qualitative study among patients with an inherited retinal disease on the meaning of genomic unsolicited findings
Authors: Saelaert Marlies , Mertes Heidi , Moerenhout Tania , Van Cauwenbergh Caroline , Leroy Bart P. , Devisch Ignaas , De Baere Elfride
Published: August 2021

Exome-based testing for genetic diseases can reveal unsolicited findings (UFs), i.e. predispositions for diseases that exceed the diagnostic question. Knowledge of patients’ interpretation of possible UFs and of motives for (not) wanting to know UFs is still limited. This lacking knowledge may impede effective counselling that meets patients’ needs. Therefore, this article examines the meaning of UFs from a patient perspective. A qualitative study was conducted and an interpretative phenomenological analysis was made of 14 interviews with patients with an inherited retinal disease. Patients assign a complex meaning to UFs, including three main components. The first component focuses on result-specific qualities, i.e. the characteristics of an UF (inclusive of actionability, penetrance, severity and age of onset) and the consequences of disclosure; the second component applies to a patient’s lived illness experiences and to the way these contrast with reflections on presymptomatic UFs; the third component addresses a patient’s family embedding and its effect on concerns about disease prognosis and genetic information’s family relevance. The complex meaning structure of UFs suggests the need for counselling procedures that transcend a strictly clinical approach. Counselling should be personalised and consider patients’ lived illness experiences and family context.
Novel Tl(III) complexes containing pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylate derivatives with selective anticancer activity through inducing mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in A375 cells
Authors: Abdolmaleki Sara , Ghadermazi Mohammad , Aliabadi Alireza
Published: August 2021

Three novel Tl(III) complexes (C1), (C2) and (C3) were synthesized using the one-pot reactions of pyridine dicarboxylic acid derivatives, 2-aminobenzimidazole and/or 4-aminopyridine, and also thallium(III) nitrate trihydrate metal salt. The structure of all three complexes was determined by the single-crystal X-ray diffraction. C1 and C2 were realized to be isostructural with disordered square anti-prismatic geometry and for C3 arrangement of the distorted tricapped triangular prism was proposed. Cyclic voltammetry measurements on the complexes exhibited that formal potential values are more positive for C1 (E0ˊ 0.109 V) and C3 (E0ˊ 0.244 V) compared to C2 (E0ˊ –0.051 V), versus Ag/AgCl under argon. Moreover, cytotoxicity of the compounds was evaluated in vitro against two cancer cell lines including a human melanoma (A375), a human colon adenocarcinoma (HT29), and also one normal cell human foreskin fibroblast (HFF). The selective and potent cytotoxicity effect was exhibited by C1 and C3 on cancer cell lines. The apoptosis through a caspase-dependent mitochondrion pathway was confirmed by ROS production, MMP reduction, p53 activation, Bax up-regulation, and Bcl-2 down-regulation, cytochrome c release, procaspase-9, and 3 expression, for A375 cells treated to C1 and C3. According to similar cellular uptake of the complexes in A375 cell line, the generation of ROS was considered as an effective agent to justify the inhibition effect C1 and C3 on mentioned cells. Furthermore, arresting the cell cycle in the G2-M phase and inducing apoptosis were indicated by these two complexes.
Immunogenomic pan-cancer landscape reveals immune escape mechanisms and immunoediting histories
Authors: Mizuno Shinichi , Yamaguchi Rui , Hasegawa Takanori , Hayashi Shuto , Fujita Masashi , Zhang Fan , Koh Youngil , Lee Su-Yeon , Yoon Sung-Soo , Shimizu Eigo , Komura Mitsuhiro , Fujimoto Akihiro , Nagai Momoko , Kato Mamoru , Liang Han , Miyano Satoru , Zhang Zemin , Nakagawa Hidewaki , Imoto Seiya
Published: August 2021

Immune reactions in the tumor microenvironment are an important hallmark of cancer, and emerging immune therapies have been proven effective against several types of cancers. To investigate cancer genome-immune interactions and the role of immunoediting or immune escape mechanisms in cancer development, we analyzed 2834 whole genome and RNA sequencing datasets across 31 distinct tumor types with respect to key immunogenomic aspects and provided comprehensive immunogenomic profiles of pan-cancers. We found that selective copy number changes in immune-related genes may contribute to immune escape. Furthermore, we developed an index of the immunoediting history of each tumor sample based on the information of mutations in exonic regions and pseudogenes and evaluated the immunoediting history of each tumor. Our immuno-genomic analyses of pan-cancers have the potential to identify a subset of tumors with immunogenicity and diverse backgrounds or intrinsic pathways associated with their immune status and immunoediting history.
Hybridization with mountain hares increases the functional allelic repertoire in brown hares
Authors: Pohjoismäki Jaakko L. O. , Michell Craig , Levänen Riikka , Smith Steve
Published: August 2021

Brown hares (Lepus europaeus Pallas) are able to hybridize with mountain hares (L. timidus Linnaeus) and produce fertile offspring, which results in cross-species gene flow. However, not much is known about the functional significance of this genetic introgression. Using targeted sequencing of candidate loci combined with mtDNA genotyping, we found the ancestral genetic diversity in the Finnish brown hare to be small, likely due to founder effect and range expansion, while gene flow from mountain hares constitutes an important source of functional genetic variability. Some of this variability, such as the alleles of the mountain hare thermogenin (uncoupling protein 1, UCP1), might have adaptive advantage for brown hares, whereas immunity-related MHC alleles are reciprocally exchanged and maintained via balancing selection. Our study offers a rare example where an expanding species can increase its allelic variability through hybridization with a congeneric native species, offering a route to shortcut evolutionary adaptation to the local environmental conditions.
GATA3 maintains the quiescent state of cochlear supporting cells by regulating p27kip1
Authors: Xu Jiadong , Yu Dongliang , Dong Xuhui , Xie Xiaoling , Xu Mei , Guo Luming , Huang Liang , Tang Qi , Gan Lin
Published: August 2021

Haplo-insufficiency of the GATA3 gene causes hypoparathyroidism, sensorineural hearing loss, and renal disease (HDR) syndrome. Previous studies have shown that Gata3 is required for the development of the prosensory domain and spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) of the mouse cochlea during embryogenesis. However, its role in supporting cells (SCs) after cell fate specification is largely unknown. In this study, we used tamoxifen-inducible Sox2CreERT2 mice to delete Gata3 in SCs of the neonatal mouse cochlea and showed that loss of Gata3 resulted in the proliferation of SCs, including the inner pillar cells (IPCs), inner border cells (IBCs), and lateral greater epithelium ridge (GER). In addition, loss of Gata3 resulted in the down-regulation of p27kip1, a cell cycle inhibitor, in the SCs of Gata3-CKO neonatal cochleae. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that GATA3 directly binds to p27kip1 promoter and could maintain the quiescent state of cochlear SCs by regulating p27kip1 expression. Furthermore, RNA-seq analysis revealed that loss of Gata3 function resulted in the change in the expression of genes essential for the development and function of cochlear SCs, including Tectb, Cyp26b1, Slitrk6, Ano1, and Aqp4.
ROS-responsive EPO nanoparticles ameliorate ionizing radiation-induced hematopoietic injury
Authors: Li Huiyang , Liang Xiaoyu , Duan Jianwei , Chen Youlu , Tian Xinxin , Wang Jinhan , Zhang Hailing , Liu Qiang , Yang Jing
Published: August 2021

Stimulus-responsive polymer materials have attracted much attention as drug carriers because of the ability to deliver drugs to the active site.
Lipid phase dependent distinct emission behaviour of hydrophobic carbon dots: C-dot based membrane probes
Authors: De Soumya Kanti , Maity Avijit , Bagchi Debanjan , Chakraborty Anjan
Published: August 2021

Discriminatory emission behaviour of the H-CDs in the ordered and disordered phase of the lipid.
Selective hydroboration of equilibrating allylic azides
Authors: Liu Ruzhang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Xu Jun
Published: August 2021

Iridium-catalyzed hydroboration of equilibrating allylic azides provides γ-azido boronic esters with high chemoselectivity, regioselectivity, and good functional group tolerance.
Genetically and chemically tuned haemoglobin–albumin trimers with superior O2 transport efficiency
Authors: Morita Yoshitsugu , Takada Ryoya , Saito Asuka , Komatsu Teruyuki
Published: August 2021

Genetically and chemically tuned haemoglobin–albumin trimers demonstrated haemoglobin allostery and moderately low O2 affinity, resulting in a higher O2 transport efficiency compared to red blood cells.
CRISPR/Cas12a-mediated liposome-amplified strategy for the photoelectrochemical detection of nucleic acid
Authors: Gong Hexiang , Wu Yulin , Zeng Ruijin , Zeng Yongyi , Liu Xiaolong , Tang Dianping
Published: August 2021

This study reports a photoelectrochemical biosensor for dopamine-loaded liposome-encoded magnetic beads cleaved by CRISPR/Cas 12a system for the quantification of human papilloma virus-related DNA using neodymium-doped BiOBr nanosheets.
New Cd(ii) coordination polymers bearing Y-shaped tricarboxylate ligands as photocatalysts for dye degradation
Authors: Du Lin , Lu Lu , Shi Chuncheng , Wang Hong-Yan , Wang Jun , Singh Amita , Kumar Abhinav
Published: August 2021

Two Cd(ii) coordination polymers derived from a Y-shaped tricarboxylate ligand were synthesized and their photocatalytic properties against decomposition of methylene blue were investigated experimentally and computationally.
Interfacial interactions and structures of protic ionic liquids on a graphite surface: A first-principles study and comparison with aprotic ionic liquids
Authors: Lu Yunxiang , Xu Yanmin , Lu Ling , Xu Zhijian , Liu Honglai
Published: August 2021

Interfacial interactions and structures of protic ionic liquids on a graphite surface were characterized using first-principles calculations and comparison with aprotic ionic liquids.
Anion states of halocamphor molecules: insights into chirally sensitive dissociative electron attachment
Authors: Ruivo Julio Cesar , Kossoski Fábris , Varella Márcio T. do N.
Published: August 2021

Energies, lifetimes, and geometry dependence of resonance states might help to elucidate the chiral asymmetries observed in the dissociative attachment of spin-polarized electrons to halocamphor molecules.
Evaluation of electrochemical properties of nanostructured metal oxide electrodes immersed in redox-inactive organic media
Authors: Brewster David A. , Koch Melissa D. , Knowles Kathryn E.
Published: August 2021

Electrochemical impedance measurements of NiO and α-Fe2O3 films immersed in redox-inactive organic media depend on both film morphology and electronic structure.
A chiral uranyl-Kemp's tricarboxylate cubic framework: structure-directing effect of counterions with three-fold rotational symmetry
Authors: Thuéry Pierre , Harrowfield Jack
Published: August 2021

Uranyl-complexed Kemp's tricarboxylate gives a cubic triperiodic framework with srs topology in the presence of structure-directing PPh3Me+ cations.
15.8% efficiency binary all-small-molecule organic solar cells enabled by a selenophene substituted sematic liquid crystalline donor
Authors: Xu Tongle , Lv Jie , Yang Ke , He Ya , Yang Qianguang , Chen Haiyan , Chen Qianqian , Liao Zhihui , Kan Zhipeng , Duan Tainan , Sun Kuan , Ouyang Jianyong , Lu Shirong
Published: August 2021

A selenophene substituted sematic liquid crystalline donor is developed to achieve outstanding PCEs for binary ASM-OSCs (15.8%) and thick-film ASM-OSCs (14.3%).
Bio-based poly(pentamethylene sebacamide) by solid-state polymerization from bio-based monomers
Authors: Lee Myung Ock , Kim Ji Hyun , Park JaeYun , Kim Sang Youl
Published: August 2021

Solid-state polymerization (SSP) of biocadaverine and biosebacic acid monomers produced PA510 bioplastic having low water absorption (0.18%) and low oxygen permeability (1.47 cc mm m−2 day) compared to other long chain polyamides.
Detection and analysis of sources of lime mineral in ancient buildings
Authors: Weng Xin , Zhang Bingjian , Zheng Xiaoping
Published: August 2021

Among the eight detected archaeological samples, one was burned from oyster shells, and others were all burned from limestone and dolomite.
Graphite-like structure of disordered polynaphthalene hard carbon anode derived from the carbonization of perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic dianhydride for fast-charging lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Lou Yitao , Rao Xianfa , Zhao Jianjun , Chen Jun , Li Baobao , Kuang Lei , Wang Qiangzhong , Zhong Shengwen , Wang Hua , Wu Lijue
Published: August 2021

The graphite-likePTCDA-1100hard carbon is prepared, which exhibits mixed porous structure with wider layer spacing, larger specific surface area and more exposed active points. As a result, superior rate cycle behaviors for bothPTCDA-1100/Lihalf-batteries andPTCDA-1100/NCM-811full batteries are observed.
Elucidation of molecular interactions of theaflavin monogallate with camel milk lactoferrin: detailed spectroscopic and dynamic simulation studies
Authors: Khan Mohd Shahnawaz , Khan Rais Ahmad , Rehman Md Tabish , Ismael Mohamed A. , Husain Fohad Mabood , AlAjmi Mohamed F. , Alokail Majed S. , Altwaijry Nojood , Alsalme Ali M.
Published: August 2021

Lactoferrin is a heme-binding multifunctional glycoprotein known for iron transportation in the blood and also contributes to innate immunity.
New strategy of light quality regulation with leaf-spraying fluorescent coatings for enhancing photosynthesis efficiency
Authors: Liu Yankai , Zhang Shuai , Yang Fei , Wang Guanzhu , Jing Xiuli , Wang Xiaofei , You Chunxiang
Published: August 2021

An UV-excited solid-state fluorescent and erosion-resistant coating based on the copolymerization of tannic acid and carbon dots is developed for increasing photosynthesis and accelerating plant growth.
Medicinal chemistry inspired by ginger: exploring the chemical space around 6-gingerol
Authors: Ahmed Sara Hassan Hassan , Gonda Tímea , Hunyadi Attila
Published: August 2021

Structure and reported bioactivities of semi-synthetic and synthetic 6-gingerol derivatives.
Enhancing catalytic potential of gold nanoparticles by linear and cross-linked polyurethane blending
Authors: Murtaza Amna , Uroos Maliha , Sultan Misbah , Muazzam Rabia , Naz Sadia
Published: August 2021

This work describes the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and their subsequent stabilization using a water-borne polyurethane matrix of micro-particles (Au/PU).
An interesting possibility of forming special hole stepping stones with high-stacking aromatic rings in proteins: three-π five-electron and four-π seven-electron resonance bindings
Authors: Li Xin , Sun Weichao , Qin Xin , Xie Yuxin , Liu Nian , Luo Xin , Wang Yuanying , Chen Xiaohua
Published: August 2021

The three-π five-electron relay forming by three close approach aromatic side chains may promote hole transfer in proteins, supporting hole translocation across a long distance during sophisticated biological processes.
The crucial roles of the configurations and electronic properties of organic hole-transporting molecules to the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ling Weidong , Liu Fan , Li Qianqian , Li Zhen
Published: August 2021

The relationship among molecular structure, molecular packing, and performance of HTMs in perovskite solar cells is systematically discussed from molecular configurations and electron properties, aiming to guide the design of efficient HTMs.
High-performance polymer molecular sieve membranes prepared by direct fluorination for efficient helium enrichment
Authors: Ma Xiaohua , Li Kaihua , Zhu Zhiyang , Dong Hao , Lv Jia , Wang Yingge , Pinnau Ingo , Li Jianxin , Chen Bowen , Han Yu
Published: August 2021

Direct fluorination of membranes with intrinsic microporosity produces robust and aging-resistant membranes with exceptionally high He/CH4separation performances, which are particularly useful for enriching He from natural gas.
Anodic hydrazine oxidation assisted hydrogen evolution over bimetallic RhIr mesoporous nanospheres
Authors: Zhang Mei , Wang Ziqiang , Duan Zhongyao , Wang Shengqi , Xu You , Li Xiaonian , Wang Liang , Wang Hongjing
Published: August 2021

Bimetallic RhIr mesoporous nanospheres are constructed via a one-step strategy and function well for hydrazine-assisted water splitting.
Polyethylenimine-modified graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets: a label-free Raman traceable siRNA delivery system
Authors: Liu Lei , Du Xin
Published: August 2021

A novel composite of low molecular weight PEI combined with g-C3N4 was investigated as an siRNA delivery system with dual fluorescence and Raman traceable abilities.
Biocompatible dextran-coated gadolinium-doped cerium oxide nanoparticles as MRI contrast agents with high T1 relaxivity and selective cytotoxicity to cancer cells
Authors: Popov A. L. , Abakumov M. A. , Savintseva I. V. , Ermakov A. M. , Popova N. R. , Ivanova O. S. , Kolmanovich D. D. , Baranchikov A. E. , Ivanov V. K.
Published: August 2021

Dextran-coated gadolinium-modified ceria nanoparticles possess excellent colloidal stability, high r1-relaxivity, demonstrate efficient cell internalisation and selective cytotoxicity to cancer cells.
The role of water in the confinement of ibuprofen in SBA-15
Authors: Gackowski Mariusz , Ruggiero-Mikołajczyk Małgorzata , Duraczyńska Dorota , Hinz Alicja , Bzowska Monika , Szczepanowicz Krzysztof
Published: August 2021

The presence of water is essential to observe the high mobility of ibuprofen located in mesopores.
Excited state mechanisms in crystalline carbazole: the role of aggregation and isomeric defects
Authors: Hernández Federico J. , Crespo-Otero Rachel
Published: August 2021

The role of aggregation and isomeric impurities on the excited state mechanisms in crystalline carbazole are revisited considering exciton, Dexter energy transfer and electron transport based on Marcus and Marcus–Levich–Jortner theories.
High performance D-type plastic fiber SPR sensor based on a hyperbolic metamaterial composed of Ag/MgF2
Authors: Yang Wen , Gao Jinjuan , Li Zhen , Li Chonghui , Cheng Yangyang , Huo Yanyan , Jiang Shouzhen , Jiang Mingshun
Published: August 2021

The D-POF Hyperbolic Metamaterial SPR sensor has excellent detection performance based on the unique multimode response and high K conduction mode of Ag and MgF2 structure.
Stimuli-responsive luminescent supramolecular assemblies and co-assemblies through orthogonal dipole–dipole interactions and halogen bonding
Authors: Jamadar Akshoy , Singh Ajeet Kumar , Roy Lisa , Das Anindita
Published: August 2021

Naphthalene monoimide derivatives produced distinct stimuli-responsive luminescent nanostructures through orthogonal dipole–dipole interactions and halogen bonding (XB) with diverse graftable XB donors and acceptors in organic solvents.
Highly efficient and thermally robust cyan-green phosphor-in-glass films for high-brightness laser lighting
Authors: Wu Huajun , Pan Guo-Hui , Hao Zhendong , Zhang Liangliang , Wu Hao , Zhang Jiahua
Published: August 2021

Highly efficient and thermally robust cyan-green CSS-PiG film is a promising candidate for laser lighting with excellent color rendering.
Exciton funneling amplified photoluminescence anisotropy in organic radical-doped microcrystals
Authors: Zhou Zhonghao , Qiao Chan , Yao Jiannian , Yan Yongli , Zhao Yong Sheng
Published: August 2021

Controllable photoluminescence anisotropy amplification was achieved in organic luminescent radical-doped microcrystals via exciton funneling.
The role of Cr3+ and Cr4+ in emission brightness enhancement and sensitivity improvement of NIR-emitting Nd3+/Er3+ ratiometric luminescent thermometers
Authors: Piotrowski W. , Dalipi L. , Szukiewicz R. , Fond B. , Dramicanin M. , Marciniak L.
Published: August 2021

In this paper, co-doping with Cr3+/4+ is proposed as a strategy to enhance the near-infrared luminescence emission of Nd3+/Er3+-based luminescence thermometers and modulate the temperature sensitivity of the ratio of Nd3+ to Er3+ in YAG.
Ion channels as convergence points in the pathology of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Jouen-Tachoire Thibault R. H. , Tucker Stephen J. , Tammaro Paolo
Published: August 2021

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a fatal disease of the cardiopulmonary system that lacks curative treatments. The main pathological event in PAH is elevated vascular resistance in the pulmonary circulation, caused by abnormal vasoconstriction and vascular remodelling. Ion channels are key determinants of vascular smooth muscle tone and homeostasis, and four PAH channelopathies (KCNK3, ABCC8, KCNA5, TRPC6) have been identified so far. However, the contribution of ion channels in other forms of PAH, which account for the majority of PAH patients, has been less well characterised. Here we reason that a variety of triggers of PAH (e.g. BMPR2 mutations, hypoxia, anorectic drugs) that impact channel function may contribute to the onset of the disease. We review the molecular mechanisms by which these ‘extrinsic’ factors converge on ion channels and provoke their dysregulation to promote the development of PAH. Ion channels of the pulmonary vasculature are therefore promising therapeutic targets because of the modulation they provide to both vasomotor tone and proliferation of arterial smooth muscle cells.
Modeling and improvement of the tricycle braking system for controlled skidding
Authors: Bleotu Robert-Marian , Preda Cosmin
Published: August 2021

In the current paper was approached the braking system of tricycles for controlled skidding, which are used by lovers of extreme sports. The complete modeling of such a tricycle has been performed and its braking system has been improved for a great performance and a better controlled braking. Also, simulation tests were performed using the finite element to achieve the best constructive variant of the brake disc.
Identifying speeds and accelerations for the systems within a didactic stand operated by means of stepper motors
Authors: Popescu Emilia-Maria , Popescu Constantin-Adrian , Popa Cicerone Laurentiu , Dobrescu Gabriel-Tiberiu , Cotet Costel Emil
Published: August 2021

The present paper aims to highlight the way in which the speeds and accelerations for the numerical control (NC) axes of the systems specific to a didactic stand with Automated Storage & Retrieval System (AS-RS) and guided transport system can be determined experimentally. The stand consists of an AS-RS system where the storage of pallets with products is achieved using 3 storage structures arranged circularly around the transport-transfer system. The pallets reach the entryexit station by means of a two-station guided transport system. Its role is to supply the AS-RS with pallets for storage and to evacuate the pallets from it. Stepper motors were used to drive the NC axes specific to the mentioned systems, and the control was realized by means of programmable logical controllers (PLC). The control programs were made in applications according to these PLC. A Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) type interface was created and thus it was possible to determine experimentally the speeds and accelerations specific to the NC axes of the mentioned systems.
Using IoT to Dynamically Test Smart Connected Devices
Authors: Cazacu Carmen Cristiana , Chiscop Florina , Cazacu Dragos Alexandru
Published: August 2021

The aim of this paper is to introduce and validate a new concept of testing smart connected devices (SCD) that have inertial measurement units (IMU) or gyroscopic and accelerometers, like smart bracelets, smart watches or even mobile phones after they have been assembled, in their way to the packaging area.

The devices will be tested dynamically, while they travel on the conveyor using the IoT (Internet of Things) and some expected values for acceleration and angle variations. Using IoT to dynamically test electronic SCD, while they travel on a conveyor after the assembly process had been completed, will reduce the time to market and will exclude the need for a testing area. Once the SCD arrives at the packing area, the system will know and sort the device that are QA (Quality Assurance) passed or failed (the devices that will not send the expected values to the system).

In order to prove this concept, we created a SCD that use an IMU connected to a Raspberry PI, boxed together. The PI is connected to ThingWorx (IoT platform that includes machine learning) and the box travel on different types of conveyor belts in order to validate this new concept.
Methods of Temperature Monitoring in Low Voltage Electrical Cables using Composite Materials
Authors: Drăghici Mircea Florin , Stoicănescu Maria
Published: August 2021

The article presents the most important methods and technologies used to monitor the temperature of low voltage power supply cables, which supply 400V in three-phase mode, trying to highlight the method of using composite materials, materials that are included in the material constructive of the cables, these having the role of temperature sensor. Temperature monitoring is performed along the electrical cables, to transmit in real time information on the evolution of temperatures along the entire length of the cable, at any point, during their entire life. The article will focus on the method of inserting optical fibres inside the power supply cables, which will be used as a temperature measuring instrument. Using the Reman effect, a method of reflecting the injected light at one end of the optical fibre, by processing the received signals, the evolution of the temperature inside the electric cable can be detected with great precision, over long distances and with great accuracy. the evolution of the temperature inside the electric.
Uncertainty and Managers’ skills in Industrial Innovation Processes
Authors: Sadeh Arik , Feniser Cristina
Published: August 2021

In the manufacturing industry, there is a strive for innovative processes. This study puts the focus on the successful implementation of innovation projects in the manufacturing industry. The study identifies the interrelationships between two dimensions: management skills and change management of innovation projects implemented in an industrial organization and technological uncertainty. Innovation can be achieved through small steps (incremental innovation), i.e., minor improvements to current products, services, processes, and business models. The necessary skills for successful organizational change and how managers can acquire them are provided. The literature review dedicated to this subject emphasizes the relationship between an innovation project’s success and managers’ skills within the industrial organization. In this study, we have narrowed this dimension to the manager’s communication abilities. The data analysed were collected from Israel and Romania. We want to analyse the role human resources departments manage skills acquisition in the organisation, as well as the role of manager’s communication skills in innovative cases. The data from 275 Israeli project managers, mainly from innovative projects, was collected using a validated questionnaire. Data from Romanian 48 industrial companies was collected using questionnaires distributed to 67 managers from all hierarchical levels. We found that management skills are correlated with innovation and its success; communication skills are acquired through non-formal learning methods. The skills of managers are highly correlated with success, especially under high levels of technological uncertainty.
Improving service-level agreements for critical systems using big data monitoring techniques
Authors: Schuszter Ioan Cristian , Cioca Marius
Published: August 2021

The proliferation of big data in virtually every branch of society and industry comes with the need to adapt and develop monitoring and alerting systems in such a way that the system can cope with any kind of data stream, whilst also ensuring rapid response times. This paper presents a framework based on modern open-source technologies that can be used to improve the quality and reliability of a connected system (such as an industrial control system), through effective monitoring and alerting. Service level agreements are crucial in our modern society, where failures need to be detected quickly and effectively, especially when one is providing a service and every moment of downtime means a large quantity of lost money and potential customers, thus monitoring is essential. Benefits in terms of responsiveness and lower downtime are also discussed, with an emphasis on a prototype implementation for a major non-profit organization.
Bioethanol produced from regenerative wooden resource to operate an organic Rankine cycle-waste heat recovery system in case of a tractor propulsion Diesel engine: preliminary simulation results
Authors: Radu Bogdan , Racovitza Alexandru
Published: August 2021

Bioethanol has become by nowadays a common-used organic agent by thermal installations in direct modes, like dual or single alternative fuel for classic engines, or in indirect modes, as primary source in fuel cells, or operating thermal energy recovery systems, which is the subject of the present work. Among all the other well-known industrial obtaining methods, avoiding higher costs and improving process efficiency, the enzymatic fermentation of the saccharide components coming from wooden biomass ensures a more profitable way to produce bioethanol, with the requested properties in order to operate as a thermal agent in an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) installation. The aim of using this system is to increase the efficiency of a tractor-turbocharged Diesel engine by its waste heat recovery (WHR).
Managerial Communication in the Vision of Hunedoara County Managers
Authors: Taşcă Nicolae , Rotaru Nicu-Pantelimon , Lupu-Dima Lucian
Published: August 2021

The aim of the paper is to analyse the managers and business owners’ vision Hunedoara County from a managerial communication perspective, depending on the age on the market, as well as the turnover. The study is based on a questionnaire containing 14 questions, distributed online, and applied to a group of over 500 companies in Hunedoara County between September 13, 2020 - September 30, 2020. We received answers from 34 companies, which are the basis of the research. Our research revealed some expressive data on the act of managerial communication, depending on the turnover of the companies, the way of exercising the communication, as well the managers and business owners’ vision how managerial communication influences the success of companies. The respondents, as mentioned, come only from the companies of Hunedoara county, but the study can be extrapolated to provide an image for all Romanian companies, as the authors show in the paper. The paper creates an image of the managers and business owners’ vision about managerial communication, showing that it must be decentralized to managers or communication specialists, especially since many respondents claim that the success of companies is influenced by managerial communication. This study can be a contribution to managerial communication, allowing managers and business owners to improve their vision of communication, and the companies they run to be more successful.
In Search of Sustainable Social Impact: A System Dynamics Approach to Managing Nonprofit Organizations Operating in Multi-Project Contexts
Authors: Caramidaru Ibrian , Ionica Andreea
Published: August 2021

Nonprofit organizations are typically seen as institutional settings that contribute to finding grassroots solutions to various social problems. But in their own turn, these entities exhibit by design manyfold frailties given by factors such as - precarious funding sustainability, balancing the multiple and, at times, divergent interests of stakeholders, finding a suitable manner to assess managerial performance. The aim of this paper consist in employing a system dynamics approach to modelling the managerial behaviour of nonprofit entities delivering their output through project networks. The system dynamics concepts of causal loops, stocks and flows dependencies are used to depict the complex relationships between projects, funding sources and social outcomes. This approach leads to identifying the systemic threatening to nonprofit sustainability and the dynamic nature of managerial decisions in the context of the interactions between nonprofit organizations, their beneficiaries and funding agencies.
Silicone Rubber Used for Lower Limb Prostheses
Authors: Besnea Daniel , Spanu Alina , Moraru Edgar , Florea Ghebuta , Elfarra Mazen
Published: August 2021

The liner is one of the most important part of the lower limb protheses, whose role is to maintain the contact between the residual limb and the socket. Taking into account the residual limb has a variable volume, we have analysed the closed-cell prototype of the liner made of silicon rubber RTV-2. The mechanical properties of this material could provide the requirements imposed for the lower limb prostheses. Meantime it is innocuous for the human body, especially for skin contact and could be used for medical devices manufacturing.
Mechanical behavior of beams with variable stiffness obtained by 3D printing
Authors: Racz Laszlo , Dudescu Mircea Cristian
Published: August 2021

Additive manufacturing or 3D printing gained a widespread popularity in recent years due to the ability of the method to manufacture components with high geometrical complexity. The most cost-effective process to manufacture plastic parts using 3D printing is the fused deposition modeling (FDM) method. Process parameters as the infill rates but also the printed pattern of different layers and their orientation have a significant influence on the mechanical properties of specimens fabricated by FDM. Controlling the process parameters is possible to generate materials with variable mechanical proprieties. The paper presents the analysis of a beam with constant cross-section but variable stiffness. Variable stiffness is achieved by changes in different cross-sections of the beam of the infill rates of the printing process. The mechanical behavior consisting of force-displacements curves is analyzed by three-point bending tests of variable stiffness samples and comparison with similar beams having constant infill rate. The results consist of E-modulus variation, maximum force and deflection curve. Analytical calculations and finite element analyses are employed to predict the mechanical behavior of the specimens printed with variable infill rate. The obtained results proved the concept of equal stress-beam with constant cross-section obtained by 3D printing process parameters variation.
Comparative Analysis of Natural Gas Pipeline Interconnections
Authors: Foidaş Ion , Bîrsan Florin Marius
Published: August 2021

The paper shows a comparison between two intervention methods for interconnecting two gas transmission pipelines within a natural gas transmission system. One intervention implies shutdown of pipelines, while the other one in-service pipelines. Each method is described in detail along with the main technological issues, as well as the related advantages and disadvantages. The technological procedures imply special working techniques such as welding or hot tapping in service pipelines.
Application of technical measures to improve the work safety - systemic guidelines
Authors: Górny Adam
Published: August 2021

In order to improve working conditions in conformity with the ISO 45001 standard, organizations need to address a wide range of issues that are essential for compliance with system requirements. One of them is to limit technical measures to those that are necessary for task completion and have been designed to mitigate threats and strains. To avert potential hazards, it is imperative to deploy improvement measures that are adequate for the nature of non-conformities and will either eliminate or reduce the underlying causes of irregularities. By employing solutions in keeping with the ISO 45001 standard, organizations can streamline the selection and rollout of their solutions to ensure effective systemic management across a range of areas from planning to implementation support, operations, outcome assessments to the identification of follow-up improvements. The measures will limit threat incidence and ultimately help improve performance.