bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure‐Dependent Guest Recognition with Flexible Ferrocene‐Based Aromatic Oligoamide β‐Sheet Mimics
Authors: Liu Ya‐Zhou , Wang Hu , Chan Chieh‐Kai , Mu Xiao , Robeyns Koen , Wang Cheng‐Chung , Singleton Michael L.
Published: November 2019

A series of aromatic oligoamides incorporating an inherently flexible ferrocene dicarboxylic acid unit was synthesized. Solid state, solution, and computational studies on these systems indicated that the aromatic strands can adopt a syn parallel stacked conformation. This results in modular β‐sheet‐like molecular clefts that display structure‐dependent recognition of small polar molecules. NMR and theoretical studies of the host–guest interaction support an in cleft binding mode and allowed the selectivity of the oligomers to be rationalized on the basis of minor changes in functional‐group presentation on the edge of the aromatic strands.
Bivalent SMAC Mimetics for Treating Cancer by Antagonizing Inhibitor of Apoptosis Proteins
Authors: Zhu Hongping , Li Yi , Liu Yue , Han Bo
Published: November 2019

Inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) inhibit caspase activity, allowing various cancers to reduce programmed cell death (apoptosis) and resist drug treatment. The second mitochondrial‐derived activator of caspases (SMAC) protein is an endogenous IAP antagonist, which can be considered as a potential anticancer therapy. Small‐molecule SMAC mimetics based on the Ala‐Val‐Pro‐Ile motif have been validated as potent IAP antagonists. In particular, most bivalent SMAC mimetics, which target both the baculovirus IAP repeat 2 (BIR2) and BIR3 domains in X‐linked IAP (XIAP), antagonize IAPs better than the corresponding monovalent mimetics. Here we focus on strategies for designing bivalent small‐molecule SMAC mimetics and progress in using them to antagonize IAPs. We also consider their clinical potential. Our discussion will hopefully help guide further study of these interesting mimetics.
Potential Therapeutic Effects of Mg/HCOOH Metal Organic Framework on Relieving Osteoarthritis
Authors: Li Zhen , Peng Ying , Pang Xiangchao , Tang Bin
Published: November 2019

This study was designed to explore the potential therapeutic effects of Mg‐based metal organic frameworks (MOFs) in osteoarthritis (OA) and to broaden the application field of MOFs. Mg/HCOOH−MOF was introduced and characterized by using SEM, XRD, TGA, and FTIR. ICP‐MS results proved that Mg/HCOOH−MOF is stable in various physiological media and can maintain the release of Mg2+ ions for a long time. In vitro experiments were carried out to evaluate its potential application in attenuating OA. Mg/HCOOH−MOF was successfully synthesized, and results of MTT assays showed that it is biocompatible and can promote cell proliferation. qPCR results suggested that it can significantly regulate the expression of OCN, Axin2, iNOS and IL‐1β, which indicated its activity in anti‐inflammation and bone protection. We believe that Mg/HCOOH−MOF could benefit OA therapy.
Diffuse reflectance behavior of the printed cotton/nylon blend fabrics treated with zirconium and cerium dioxide and citric acid in near‐ and short‐wave IR radiation spectral ranges
Authors: Siadat Seyedeh Ameneh , Mokhtari Javad
Published: November 2019

Near‐ and short‐wave IR emission spectra of printed cotton/nylon blend fabrics coated with inorganic compounds in order to tune their diffuse reflectance behavior to the ones with woodland and desert backgrounds are investigated. In this regard, cotton/nylon blend fabrics printed with a four‐color digital pattern were used as the substrate, and different concentrations of zirconium and cerium dioxide (ZrO2 and CeO2) with and without citric acid as a cross‐linker were loaded on these fabrics using the pad‐dry‐cure method. The diffuse reflectance of the coated fabrics with various concentrations of nanoparticles and a cross‐linker was first measured by near‐infrared (NIR) diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). Then, fabrics with an optimum concentration of nanoparticles and appropriate reflectivity profiles similar to woodland and desert were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), washing, and rubbing fastness properties. In general, NIR and short‐wave infrared (SWIR) reflectance of fabrics coated with ZrO2 and CeO2 nanoparticles in range of 1% to 1.5% (w/v [%]) was suitable for matching with different environments. According to the findings obtained from the durability test, it was concluded that the washing fastness of the treated fabrics with CeO2 nanoparticles was excellent in both environments. FE‐SEM images of the treated fabrics containing ZrO2 and CeO2 indicated that the presence of nanoparticles on the surface of fabrics in woodland patterns was greater than the desert ones. However, the coated fabrics with CeO2 and citric acid in the woodland pattern have shown better dispersion with a mean particle size of 30 to 60 nm.
Cognitive cryptography for data security in cloud computing
Authors: Ogiela Urszula
Published: November 2019

This paper presents new approach for creation of advanced multilevel user authentication protocols using hybrid CAPTCHA codes. Such codes will define a new class of cognitive CAPTCHAs, which, during verification, require from users special skills and knowledge, which is necessary for proper authentication. This way of authentication may be oriented for providing data access only for a special group of experts or trusted users who represent particular expertise areas and have special perception abilities and knowledge. For presented authentication protocols, possible examples of applications will be presented, and security features will be described. Presented innovative verification codes will considerably expand the existed security protocols toward the creation of cognitive‐based approaches oriented for user authentication. Such approaches define novel classes of cryptographic procedures, which can use personal features and perception skills.
Calixarene‐Functionalized Porous Carbon Aerogels for Polysulfide Capture: Cathodes for High Performance Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xingchi , Li Xueliang , Gao Wei , Ma Li , Fang Huagao , Shu Yizhen , Ye Jinjin , Ding Yunsheng
Published: November 2019

A cage‐type composite was successfully prepared by attaching p‐sulfonatocalix[4]arene to a porous activated carbon aerogel (ACA). The resulting composite showed a high specific surface area of 1620.7 m2 g−1 and a high sulfur loading of 2.5 mg cm−2. The calixarene is uniformly dispersed on the carbon spheres and efficiently captures polysulfides by interaction with the sulfonate groups. Meanwhile, the cross‐linked porous structure of the composite restricts the migration of polysulfides. The cathode delivers an outstanding electrochemical performance with an initial capacity of 1304.7 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C. Furthermore, it displays excellent long‐term cycling stability, maintaining 884.7 mAh g−1 after 300 cycles at 0.5 C. Density functional theory (DFT) adsorption calculations support the strong interaction between the calixarenes and polysulfides and reveal the capture mechanism.
Selective Microwave‐Assisted Pyrolysis of Cellulose towards Levoglucosenone with Clay Catalysts
Authors: Doroshenko Alisa , Pylypenko Ihor , Heaton Karl , Cowling Stephen , Clark James , Budarin Vitaliy
Published: November 2019

Levoglucosenone (anhydrosugar) is one of the most promising chemical platforms derived from the pyrolysis of biomass. It is a chiral building block for pharmaceuticals as well as an intermediate in the production of solvents and polymers. Therefore, the development of cost‐efficient, low‐energy production methods is vital for a future sustainable biorefinery. Here, a novel, green approach to the production of levoglucosenone was developed by using a microwave (MW)‐assisted pyrolysis of cellulose in the presence of readily available clays. It was shown that natural and pillared clays in the presence of MW irradiation significantly increase the yield of levoglucosenone from cellulose. Both the water content and the presence of acid centres are critical characteristics that influence the yield and distribution of catalysed products. A unique experiment was designed by using a synergetic effect between different types of catalysts, which enhanced the levoglucosenone yield to 12.3 wt % with 63 % purity.
Immunological observations and transcriptomic analysis of trimester‐specific full‐term placentas from three Zika virus‐infected women
Authors: Lum Fok‐Moon , Narang Vipin , Hue Susan , Chen Jie , McGovern Naomi , Rajarethinam Ravisankar , Tan Jeslin JL , Amrun Siti Naqiah , Chan Yi‐Hao , Lee Cheryl YP , Chua Tze‐Kwang , Yee Wearn‐Xin , Yeo Nicholas KW , Tan Thiam‐Chye , Liu Xuan , Haldenby Sam , Leo Yee‐sin , Ginhoux Florent , Chan Jerry KY , Hiscox Julian , Chong Chia‐Yin , Ng Lisa FP
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Effects of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection on placental development during pregnancy are unclear.

Methods

Full‐term placentas from three women, each infected with ZIKV during specific pregnancy trimesters, were harvested for anatomic, immunologic and transcriptomic analysis.

Results

In this study, each woman exhibited a unique immune response with raised IL‐1RA, IP‐10, EGF and RANTES expression and neutrophil numbers during the acute infection phase. Although ZIKV NS3 antigens co‐localised to placental Hofbauer cells, the placentas showed no anatomic defects. Transcriptomic analysis of samples from the placentas revealed that infection during trimester 1 caused a disparate cellular response centred on differential eIF2 signalling, mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative phosphorylation. Despite these, the babies were delivered without any congenital anomalies.

Conclusion

These findings should translate to improve clinical prenatal screening procedures for virus‐infected pregnant patients.
Impact of pre‐therapy glioblastoma multiforme microenvironment on clinical response to autologous CMV‐specific T‐cell therapy
Authors: Walker David G , Shakya Reshma , Morrison Beth , Neller Michelle A , Matthews Katherine K , Nicholls John , Smith Corey , Khanna Rajiv
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Clinical response to antibody‐based immunotherapies targeting checkpoint inhibitors is critically dependent on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). However, the precise impact of the TIME on adoptive cellular immunotherapy remains unexplored. Here we have conducted a long‐term follow‐up analysis of patients with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) who were treated with autologous CMV‐specific T‐cell therapy to delineate the potential impact of the TIME on their clinical response.

Methods

Multiplexed immunohistochemical analysis of CD3, PD‐L1 and Sox‐2 in GBM tissue biopsies obtained before autologous T‐cell therapy was carried out and correlated with long‐term survival of GBM patients adoptively treated with T‐cell therapy.

Results

Tumor microenvironment analyses revealed that the pre‐treatment cellular composition of the tumor tissue may influence the subsequent response to adoptive T‐cell therapy. GBM patients who showed prolonged overall survival following T‐cell therapy had a significantly lower number of tumor‐infiltrating CD3+ T cells in recurrent tumors than that in patients with short‐term survival. Furthermore, long‐term surviving patients showed low or undetectable PD‐L1 expression in tumor cells in recurrent GBM biopsies.

Conclusion

We hypothesise that lack of PD‐L1‐mediated immunosuppression in the TIME may allow efficient immune control following adoptive T‐cell therapy. Future studies combining anti‐PD‐L1 or genetically modified T cells with PD‐1 receptor knockdown could be considered to improve clinical responses in patients who have high PD‐L1 expression in their tumors.
Positive predictive value of CD200 positivity in the differential diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Sorigue Marc , Magnano Laura , Miljkovic Milos D. , Nieto‐Moragas Javier , Santos‐Gomez Mireia , Villamor Neus , Junca Jordi , Morales‐Indiano Cristian
Published: November 2019

Background

The role of CD200 in the differential diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and classical mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is well established. Its role in the differential diagnosis of CLL and other lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) is less clear, in particular its positive predictive value (PPV).

Materials and methods

We conducted a systematic review of the use of CD200 in the differential diagnosis of CLL, MCL, and other predominantly leukemic, typically CD103‐negative LPD. With the results, we then derived a curve to determine the PPV based on the prevalence of the disorders included in the differential diagnosis.

Results

Of 43 publications screened, 27 were included in the systematic review (5,764 patients). The median CD200 positivity rate in all studies and the percentage of CD200‐positive (pooled) patients was 100% and 95% (3,061/3,208) in CLL, 4 and 8% (86/1112) in MCL and 56 and 62% (425/689) in other LPD.

Conclusion

CD200 is suboptimal for the differential diagnosis of CLL and disorders other than nodal MCL.
A novel analytical model for interference estimation in CR‐enabled femtocells
Authors: Singh S. Pratap , Kumar Amit , Mishra Saket , M Lakshmanan , Kumar Sanjay
Published: November 2019

Commercial, multideployed cognitive femtocell base stations (CFBSs) with cognitive capabilities are envisioned as a promising approach to meet the requirement of the higher data rate in today's wireless communications with nomadic users. However, random deployment of CFBSs results in interference between primary links, ie, the link between a macrocell base station (MBS) and macrocell user equipment (MUE), and secondary links, ie, the link between a femtocell base station (FBS) and femtocell user equipment (FUE). In this research paper, different analytical expressions for statistical measures such as cumulative distribution function of outage probability (Fout) and probability distribution function (Pout) have been proposed for the CFBS system. The fading channel for the secondary and primary links is taken as mixture gamma (MG) and Rayleigh distribution, respectively. It should be noticed that MG fading is one of the most generic fading channels and has not been included for analysis of the CFBS system to date. In addition, this paper presents average detection probability () for cognitive radio (CR)–enabled femtocells or the CFBS system. The numerical analysis presents the effects of various parameters such as spatial density of CFBS nodes (λ), interference tolerance threshold (βth), and transmitting power of MBS (p) and fading parameters of the channel onFout,Pout, and. Also, the numerical analysis shows perfect agreement with the theoretical background.
Social‐based reputation‐aware data forwarding for improved multicast delivery in the presence of selfish nodes in DTNs
Authors: Roy Animesh , Acharya Tamaghna , Das Bit Sipra
Published: November 2019

Delay/disruption tolerant networks (DTNs) are potentially applicable in the challenged scenarios like post‐disaster environments. In such networks, data forwarding generally relies on the mutual cooperation of the nodes. However, in reality, despite the availability of necessary resources for data forwarding, a node could misbehave by dropping messages received from other nodes with whom it has no strong social ties. Such a node is called a socially selfish node, which would cause a poor delivery ratio in the network. In this paper, we aim to address the problem of multicast data forwarding in the presence of such selfish nodes, by means of efficient relay selection in DTNs. First, we define a realistic reputation model, in contrast to existing models, to define the socially selfish/misbehaving nodes in the network. Further, a game‐theoretic analysis is carried out that implies data forwarding cost is also an influential parameter in handling selfishness/misbehavior. Subsequently, the problem is formulated as a constrained optimization problem, which is NP hard. Therefore, a heuristic is proposed by combining the reputation of a node and the cost of message forwarding to appropriately identify relay nodes, thus improve the performance of the multicast message delivery in the network. We utilize a social metric, centrality to minimize the message forwarding cost in terms of the number of relay nodes. Finally, the comparative performance evaluation in ONE simulator with practical scenarios shows the superiority of the proposed scheme over the other prominent schemes.
L6H9 attenuates LPS‐induced acute lung injury in rats through targeting MD2
Authors: Wu Peiliang , Yan Hanhan , Qi Jiayu , Jia Wenjing , Zhang Wentao , Yao Dan , Ding Cheng , Zhang Yali , Chen Mayun , Cai Xueding
Published: November 2019

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a clinical syndrome characterized by respiratory failure and acute inflammatory response. Myeloid differentiation protein 2 (MD2) has been reported to play a pivotal role in the recognition of LPS and LPS‐mediates inflammatory response. There have been no clinically effective therapeutic drugs for ALI. L6H9, an inhibitor of MD2, showed anti‐inflammatory effects and cardiac protective activity. However, its effect on ALI has not been elucidated. In this study, intratracheal instillation of LPS was employed to induce ALI in rats. L6H9 pretreatment attenuates LPS‐induced pathological variations in lung tissue and pulmonary edema. LPS instillation enhanced lung microvascular permeability, thereby causing inflammatory cells flow into bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). However, L6H9 inhibited the LPS‐induced upregulation of total protein concentration and the number of inflammatory cells in BALF. In the meantime, macrophages infiltration in lung tissue induced by LPS was also mitigated by L6H9 treatment. Furthermore, L6H9 suppressed LPS‐induced inflammatory cytokines expression in BALF, serum, and lung tissue. It is noteworthy that LPS‐induced MD2/TLR4 complex formation was inhibited by L6H9 in lung tissue. On the whole, these results show that L6H9 can attenuate LPS‐induced ALI in vivo by targeting MD2. Our study provide new candidate for the treatment of ALI.
Aza‐CGP37157‐lipoic hybrids designed as novel Nrf2‐inducers and antioxidants exert neuroprotection against oxidative stress and show neuroinflammation inhibitory properties
Authors: Michalska Patrycja , Tenti Giammarco , Satriani Michelle , Cores Angel , Ramos María Teresa , García Antonio G. , Menéndez José Carlos , León Rafael
Published: November 2019

Two multitarget hybrids, derived from an aza‐analogue of CGP37157, a mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchanger antagonist, and lipoic acid were designed in order to combine in a single molecule the antioxidant and Nrf2 induction properties of lipoic acid and the neuroprotective activity of CGP37157. The hybrid derivatives showed Nrf2 induction and radical scavenging properties, leading to a good neuroprotective profile against oxidative stress, together with an interesting antineuroinflammatory activity. The results obtained show differences in activity depending on the configuration of the chiral center of LA.
Testing the visual impedance effect in children with and without reading difficulties using a new visual reasoning task
Authors: Panagiotidou Elpida , Serrano Francisca , Moreno‐Ríos Sergio
Published: November 2019

This study examined reasoning skills in children, specifically transitive reasoning and the visual impedance effect, with a new visual/pictorial task. The visual impedance effect is the effect produced by the possible interference in the reasoning process of irrelevant details elicited from the premises of a reasoning task. The new task had no reading requirements, which made it suitable for testing reasoning in primary school children, especially children with reading difficulties (RD), such as dyslexia. The study aimed also to validate the possible use of the task for studying reasoning and detecting the visual impedance effect without the interference of reading skills and to investigate the association between transitive reasoning and reading abilities. A pilot study (N = 10) was used to test the suitability of the new task for primary school children. Afterwards, the task was tested on a larger sample of children of third to sixth Grade, with and without RD (N = 84). Results showed that the new task is able to detect the main reasoning effects as well as the visual impedance effect. The findings are discussed, with the new task considered appropriate for studying reasoning skills in child populations both with and without RD.
Current ecology, not ancestral dispersal patterns, influences menopause symptom severity
Authors: Yang Yuping , Arnot Megan , Mace Ruth
Published: November 2019

All human females who reach midlife experience menopause, however, it is currently unclear why women experience this period of infertility, and why it is accompanied by many unpleasant symptoms. Using primary data from four ethnic groups in China, we test an existing theory that age of menopause and its symptoms are the result of intragenomic conflict between maternally and paternally inherited genes, with the outcome of such conflict predicted to be contingent on the ancestral postmarital residence pattern of the female (Úbeda, Ohtsuki, & Gardner, Ecology Letters, 17, 2014, 165). The model predicts that being ancestrally patrilocal results in less intragenomic conflict, causing a shorter, less symptomatic perimenopause that terminates in a later menopause. Our findings show no support for this hypothesis and suggest current, rather than ancestral, residence patterns better predict aspects of the menopausal transition. Furthermore, current patrilocality when compared to duolocality is associated with more severe menopause symptoms, which may be due to sexual, rather than intragenomic, conflict.

Open Research Badges

This article has earned an Open Data Badge for making publicly available the digitally‐shareable data necessary to reproduce the reported results. The data is available at https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.27s8k0p.
A novel case of autogamy and cleistogamy in Dendrobium wangliangii: A rare orchid distributed in the dry‐hot valley
Authors: Wang Qiuxia , Shao Shicheng , Su Yuan , Hu Xueli , Shen Yong , Zhao Dake
Published: November 2019

Dendrobium wangliangii is an epiphytic orchid distributed in the Jinshajiang dry‐hot valley in Luquan County, Yunnan Province, China. Most Dendrobium spp. typically have a low fruit set, but this orchid shows a higher fruit set under natural conditions despite the lack of effective pollinators. The pollination biology of the critically endangered D. wangliangii was investigated in this study. A fruit set rate of 33.33 ± 4.71% was observed after bagging treatment in 2017 and a high fruit set rate (65.72 ± 4.44% in 2011; 50.79 ± 5.44% in 2017) was observed under natural conditions, indicating that D. wangliangii is characterized by spontaneous self‐pollination. The anther cap blocked the growing pollinium; thus, the pollinium slid down and reached the stigmatic cavity, leading to autogamous self‐pollination. Specifically, 51.50% of 162 unopened flowers (total 257 flowers) of this Dendrobium species under extreme water‐deficit conditions developed into fruits, suggesting the presence of cleistogamy in D. wangliangii. Here, cleistogamy may represent the primary mode of pollination for this orchid. Spontaneous self‐pollination and specific cleistogamous autogamy could represent major adaptions to the drought and pollinator‐scarce habitat in the Jinshajiang dry‐hot valley.
The impact of nitrogen deposition on photobiont‐mycobiont balance of epiphytic lichens in subtropical forests of central China
Authors: Wang Ming , Wang Chuanhua , Jia Raozhen
Published: November 2019

Excessive nitrogen (N) deposition can impact lichen diversity in forest ecosystems, and this is a particular situation in China. Here, we examined the N uptake, assimilation, and the impact of excessive N deposition on the symbiotic balance of dominant epiphytic lichens in the subtropical forests in the Mts. Shennongjia of central China. The results show that lichen species took up, assimilated and utilized more ammonium than nitrate in a species‐specific way, following the increase of N availability. The photobiont of the lichens decreased with the increase of N concentration following an initial increase, while the mycobiont response to the N addition was not apparent. Considerable variation in response to excessive N deposition exists among the lichen species. Usnea longissima could regulate its N uptake, resulting in a stable photobiont‐mycobiont ratio among N treatments. In contrast, the photobiont‐mycobiont ratio of other four lichens increased initially but decreased when N concentration exceeded a certain level, and N stress may have broken the balance between photobiont and mycobiont of these lichens. Our results suggest that most epiphytic lichens in subtropical forest of central China could uptake and assimilate more ammonium than nitrate and that the balance between photobiont and mycobiont of many epiphytic lichens might change with the increasing N deposition load, which could impact the lichen diversity of this forest ecosystem.
Distinguishing Anuran species by high‐resolution melting analysis of the COI barcode (COI‐HRM)
Authors: Everman Steven , Wang Shiao Y.
Published: November 2019

Taxonomic identification can be difficult when two or more species appear morphologically similar. DNA barcoding based on the sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 gene (COI) is now widely used in identifying animal species. High‐resolution melting analysis (HRM) provides an alternative method for detecting sequence variations among amplicons without having to perform DNA sequencing. The purpose of this study was to determine whether HRM of the COI barcode can be used to distinguish animal species. Using anurans as a model, we found distinct COI melting profiles among three congeners of both Lithobates spp. and Hyla spp. Sequence variations within species shifted the melting temperature of one or more melting domains slightly but do not affect the distinctness of the melting profiles for each species. An NMDS ordination plot comparing melting peak profiles among eight Anuran species showed overlapping profiles for Lithobates sphenocephala and Gastrophryne carolinensis. The COI amplicon for both species contained two melting domains with melting temperatures that were similar between the two species. The two species belong to two different families, highlighting the fact that COI melting profiles do not reveal phylogenetic relationships but simply reflect DNA sequence differences among stretches of DNA within amplicons. This study suggests that high‐resolution melting analysis of COI barcodes (COI‐HRM) may be useful as a simple and rapid method to distinguish animal species that appear morphologically similar.
Development of a free viewpoint pedestrian recognition system using deep learning for multipurpose flying drone
Authors: Miyazato Takaya , Uehara Wakaki , Nagayama Itaru
Published: November 2019

This paper describes the development of three‐dimensional (3D) human recognition system of flying drone system for emergency rescue and investigation. In this system, deep neural network and its application for 3D object recognition are key techniques for human detection from a free viewpoint. Some appearance based characteristics are captured as movie frames, and the system uses deep neural networks to automatically classify concerned object. The proposed system performs well that many kinds of views of personnel can be recognized from bird's eye view. Experimental results show that the system can effectively recognize human objects with high accuracy.
The potential to foster governance learning in the Baltic Sea Region: Network governance of the European Union Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region
Authors: Grönholm Sam , Jetoo Savitri
Published: November 2019

The Baltic Sea ecosystem is displaying symptoms of extreme stress from multiple sources. These complex and “wicked” problems require cooperation by actors for multidisciplinary pooling of knowledge to completely understand the problem and adaptively learn in order to develop appropriate policy strategies. Inherent in the design of the European Union Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region (EUSBSR) is the promise to foster cooperation by key BSR network governance actors, connecting them to develop joint policy arrangements needed for governing the challenges of the Baltic Sea. The EUSBSR is the key knowledge broker in the region and has the capacity to augment BSR network governance of the Baltic Sea. Despite the importance of knowledge transmission and policy learning to the EUSBSR, there has been no formal study of it in the literature. This paper aims to make a theoretical contribution to the literature by evaluating the latent potential of the EUSBSR to foster policy learning across BSR governance networks. It does this through document analysis focussing on the interaction platforms of the EUSBSR that interconnects BSR governance networks across policy sectors.
6‐Arylphenanthridines from Aryl o‐Biaryl Ketones with 1,1,1,3,3,3‐Hexamethyldisilazane and Molecular Iodine
Authors: Kobayashi Eiji , Kishi Atsushi , Togo Hideo
Published: November 2019

Warming treatment of aryl o‐biaryl ketones with 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexamethyldisilazane in the presence of Sc(OTf)3 in toluene, followed by the reaction with molecular iodine and K2CO3 in a mixture of THF and methanol at 60 °C gave the corresponding 6‐arylphenanthridines in good to moderate yields. The present reaction is a one‐pot method for the preparation of 6‐arylphenanthridines from aryl o‐biaryl ketones through the cyclization of imino‐nitrogen‐centered radicals that were generated from N‐iodo aryl o‐biaryl ketimines formed from the reaction of aryl biaryl ketimines with molecular iodine.
Desymmetrization of 2‐Cyano‐N‐tosylbenzylidenimine with Thiols and Organocatalytic Heterocyclization by Dynamic Resolution: Mechanism Investigation
Authors: Velardo Amalia , Capaccio Vito , Caruso Tonino , Di Mola Antonia , Massa Antonio , Tedesco Consiglia , Caporaso Lucia , Falivene Laura , Palombi Laura
Published: November 2019

Integrated experimental and computational approach provides a rationale for the mode of action of cinchona‐based alkaloids as chiral receptors in the observed dynamic chiral resolution of the titled tandem reaction. In particular, a mechanism based on a dynamic kinetic asymmetric transformation has been unravelled in detail. Furthermore, the crucial role of “distal” H‐bonding donor functionality in directing the enantioselectivity reversal of homochiral cinchona‐based catalysts has been convincingly explained. The access to enantiopure tertiary isoindolinone N,S‐acetals has been achieved for the first time.
Field and simulation study of the rational coal pillar width in extra‐thick coal seams
Authors: He Wenrui , He Fulian , Zhao Yongqiang
Published: November 2019

The principles of mining pressure in extra‐thick coal seams are different from those of medium‐thick and thick coal seams. Field investigation, laboratory test, and simulation analysis methods were used to study the correlation between the gob‐side entry (GSE) stability and coal pillar width during longwall top coal caving mining in extra‐thick coal seams. The test site is in Datong City, Shanxi Province, China. The mining pressure in N5209 tailgate with coal pillar of 30 m is severe based on the field investigations during the N5209 panel retreat. Global constitutive double‐yield and strain‐softening models were built to study the abutment pressures and plastic failure ranges of coal seams with different thicknesses and coal pillar widths. The simulation results show that the GSE with an 8‐m coal pillar is destressed and minimal GSE deformation occurs. In addition, the abutment stress in the coal pillar decreases with increasing coal seam thickness. The field tests indicate that the GSE with an 8‐m‐wide coal pillar is stable in extra‐thick coal seams. This study provides a reference for the coal pillar design in coal mines with similar geological and mining conditions.
Psychometric Considerations and a General Scoring Strategy for Assessments of Collaborative Problem Solving
Authors: Hao Jiangang , Liu Lei , Kyllonen Patrick , Flor Michael , von Davier Alina A.
Published: November 2019

Collaborative problem solving (CPS) is an important 21st‐century skill that is crucial for both career and academic success. However, developing a large‐scale and standardized assessment of CPS that can be administered on a regular basis is very challenging. In this report, we introduce a set of psychometric considerations and a general scoring strategy around assessing CPS, summarized based on the results of the extensive empirical studies we conducted at Educational Testing Service (ETS) over the past 6 years. Using the ETS Collaborative Science Assessment Prototype as an example, we show how these psychometric considerations have been incorporated into the development of the assessment prototype and how the scoring strategy has been implemented.
Best practices for modeling structural boundary conditions due to a localized fire
Authors: DeSimone Alyssa , Jeffers Ann E.
Published: November 2019

Recent studies suggest the assumption of uniform heating that is used in current structural fire design cannot be assumed conservative, especially if the fire is expected to burn locally. Aside from design equations, which have limited applicability, a common approach to simulating structural members subjected to a localized fire is modeling the fire‐structure interaction using a coupled computational fluid dynamics (CFD)‐finite element (FE) model. In the existing literature, a wide range of methods and parameters are used when determining the boundary conditions at the fire‐structure interface, specifically regarding the representation of net heat flux, heat transfer coefficient, and surface emissivity of steel. The purpose of this study is to investigate various methods for representing the boundary conditions in terms of accuracy and computational efficiency and then identify best practices. In conclusion, our study found that net heat flux predicted by adiabatic surface temperature, a nonconstant heat transfer coefficient, and a surface emissivity of 0.9 for steel was the most reliable thermal boundary condition in a coupled CFD‐FE model of a localized fire. These recommendations are based on the two cases studied here, and caution should be used when applying these results to future studies.
Continuous preparation of flavour‐active acetate esters by direct biocatalytic esterification
Authors: Chiarelli Perdomo Igor , Letizia Contente Martina , Pinto Andrea , Romano Diego , Fernandes Pedro , Molinari Francesco
Published: November 2019

Mycelium‐bound lipase(s) from Aspergillus oryzae catalysed direct esterification of isoamyl alcohol and cinnamyl alcohol with acetic acid in organic solvent, showing high stability towards substrates and products. Water produced during the esterification did not significantly affect the equilibrium of the reaction, allowing for high conversions. These features were exploited for preparing flavour‐active acetate esters (isoamyl and cinnamyl acetate) in batch and continuous systems. A continuous stirred tank membrane reactor (CST‐MR) was developed securing good reactor productivity and high biocatalyst stability.
Geology and mapping of laterites, South Eastern Desert, Egypt: Based on field and ASTER data approach
Authors: El Desoky Hatem M. , Shahin Taher M. , Abu El‐Leil Ibrahim , Shafea Ezzat A.
Published: November 2019

The area between wadi Dungash–wadi Shait in the South Eastern Desert of Egypt comprises ophiolitic nappes structurally overthrust on island arc‐related metasedimentary–metavolcanic rocks, which are traversed by several granitoids, gabbroic and basaltic rocks. This paper focuses on uncovering laterite zones utilizing field geological, mineralogical and geochemical attributes of the investigation region. Laterites are distributed at the border between Neoproterozoic and Phanerozoic rocks. The laterite deposits are developed after the emplacement of Natash flows as a result of lateritization process in tropical regions, during the Late Cretaceous. The laterite sections comprise a sequence from the top to the base, oxide laterite, plasmic laterite, saprolith and bedrock. The laterite sections consist of hematite and goethite together with small quantity of gibbsite. Geochemically, the laterite profiles are marked by an increase in Fe content and decrease in Si from the top to the bottom. Fe2O3 is the most abundant with 30.09–54.67 wt.%, Al2O3 vary from 18.01 to 32.78 wt.%, and SiO2 vary from 15.05 to 19.43 wt.%. Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer images are utilised to characterize a primer laterite zone. The band ratio 4/5 is found to be efficient in defining the laterite soil in the studied area.
Microglial expression of GAT‐1 in the cerebral cortex
Authors: Fattorini Giorgia , Catalano Myriam , Melone Marcello , Serpe Carmela , Bassi Silvia , Limatola Cristina , Conti Fiorenzo
Published: November 2019

Microglial cells are the immune cells of the brain that, by sensing the microenvironment, permit a correct brain development and function. They communicate with other glial cells and with neurons, releasing and responding to a number of molecules that exert effects on surrounding cells. Among these, neurotransmitters and, in particular, gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) has recently gained interest in this context. We demonstrated the expression of GABA transporter 1 (GAT‐1) in microglial cells both in soma and cell processes. We show that microglial cell treatment with 1,2,5,6‐tetrahydro‐1‐[2‐[[(diphenylmethylene)amino]oxy]ethyl]‐3‐pyridinecarboxylic acid hydrochloride (NNC‐711), a potent and selective GAT‐1 inhibitor, significantly reduced Na+‐dependent GABA uptake. On the other hand, GABA uptake was significantly increased by cell treatment with (S)‐1‐[2‐[tris(4‐methoxyphenyl)methoxy]ethyl]‐3‐piperidinecarboxylic acid (SNAP‐5114), a GAT‐2/3 inhibitor, and this effect was completely blocked by the botulinum toxin BoNT/C1, that specifically cleaves and inactives syntaxin 1A (STX1A). Overall, these findings show that microglial cells express GAT‐1 and indicate that STX1A plays an important role in the regulation of GAT‐1‐dependent GABA uptake in microglia.
Tobit models in strategy research: Critical issues and applications
Authors: Amore Mario Daniele , Murtinu Samuele
Published: November 2019

Research Summary

Tobit models have been used to address several questions in management research. Reviewing existing practices and applications, we discuss three challenges: (a) assumptions about the nature of data, (b) apparent interchangeability between censoring and selection bias, and (c) potential violations of key assumptions in the distribution of residuals. Empirically analyzing the relationship between import competition and industry diversification, we contrast Tobit models with results from other estimators and show the conditions that make Tobit a suitable empirical approach. Finally, we offer suggestions and guidelines on how to use Tobit models to deal with censored data in strategy research.

Managerial Summary

Data on strategic decisions often exhibit certain features, such as excess zeros and values bounded within a given range, which complicate the use of linear econometric techniques. Deriving statistical evidence in such instances may suffer from biases that undermine managerial applications. Our study presents an extensive comparison of different econometric models to deal with censored data in strategic management showing the strengths and weaknesses of each model. We also conduct an application to the context of import penetration and industry diversification to highlight how the relationship between these two variables changes depending on the econometric model used for the analysis. In conclusion, we provide a set of recommendations for scholars interested in censored data.
Risk proneness modulates the impact of impulsivity on brain functional connectivity
Authors: Baltruschat Sabina , Cándido Antonio , Megías Alberto , Maldonado Antonio , Catena Andrés
Published: November 2019

Impulsivity and sensation seeking are considered to be among the most important personality traits involved in risk‐taking behavior. This study is focused on whether the association of these personality traits and brain functional connectivity depends on individuals' risk proneness. Risk proneness was assessed with the DOSPERT‐30 scale and corroborated with performance in a motorcycle simulator. The associations of impulsivity‐ and sensation seeking‐related traits with the between and within coupling of seven major brain functional networks, estimated from electroencefalograma (EEG) recordings, differ according to whether an individual is risk prone or not. In risk‐prone individuals, (lack of) premeditation enhanced the coupling of the ventral attention and limbic networks. At the same time, emotion seeking increased the coupling of the frontoparietal network and the default mode networks (DMNs). Finally, (lack of) perseverance had a positive impact on the coupling of anterior temporal nodes of the limbic network whilst having a negative impact on some frontal nodes of the frontoparietal network and the DMNs. In general, the results suggest that the predisposition to behave riskily modulates the way in which impulsivity traits are linked to brain functionality, seemingly making the brain networks prepare for an immediate, automatic, and maladaptive response.
The effects of three blue light filter conditions for smartphones on visual fatigue and visual performance
Authors: Chiu Hsiao‐Ping , Liu Chien‐Hsiou
Published: November 2019

Although blue light filters have been developed to decrease visual fatigue, the decreased screen brightness and contrast ratios inherent in current filtering techniques should be resolved. To address these issues, we developed a blue light filter, named the Eye Care blue light filter. This study investigated the effects of three blue light filtering techniques (the Eye Care blue light filter, an 80% blue light filter application [app], and a 60% blue light filter app) on visual fatigue and task performance. Thirty‐six healthy adults were recruited. Critical fusion frequency, task performance, and subjective visual fatigue scale were used to assess visual perception and task performance. All subjects played a smartphone game for 40 min in each experimental condition. Task performance was better with the Eye Care blue light filter than with the two filter apps. The value of the Eye Care blue light filter is that it immerses the user in a good task performance environment while reducing blue light exposure per unit of time more than is possible with filter apps.
Factors influencing enrolment in Vietnamese National Health Insurance: Evidence from six provinces in 2018
Authors: Hasegawa Ryo
Published: November 2019

Objective

This study examines the reasons why Vietnamese do not avail or subscribe to Social Health Insurance (SHI).

Methods

This study collected data from the Project of Development and Strengthening the Management of Provider Payment Methods and Basic Health Service Package Reimbursed by Health Insurance Fund in Vietnam implemented by Japan International Cooperation Agency. In‐depth interviews of nonsubscribers and logistic regression analysis were conducted to identify factors that influence enrolment in Vietnam's SHI.

Results

The results showed that financial burden, sound health condition, preference for prescriptions from pharmacies, and complicated enrolment procedures were factors that influenced subscription to SHI. Regression analysis displayed that respondents with high education and those who were aware of their rights and benefits and copayment responsibilities were more likely to subscribe to SHI. A negative correlation between household affluence and enrolment implies that the affluent was likely to subscribe to private health insurance over SHI.

Conclusions

In‐depth interviews revealed the need to address demand and supply factors and institutional procedures to improve programme enrolment. Disseminating information about SHI could also boost enrolment.
A semianalytical technique for MHD peristalsis of pseudoplastic nanofluid with temperature‐dependent viscosity: Application in drug delivery system
Authors: Eldabe N. T. , Moatimid G. M. , Abouzeid M. Y. , ElShekhipy A. A. , Abdallah Naglaa F.
Published: November 2019

An analysis has been implemented to study the influences of nonconstant viscosity and magnetohydrodynamics on pseudoplastic nanofluid through a porous medium. Ohmic dissipation, chemical reaction, and heat generation are taken into consideration. The current problem is debated under the molds of tiny or zero and approximation. Two models of nonconstant viscosity are deliberated. Model (I)—all parameters are nondimensional and have been measured as constants inside the flow. Model (II)—all these stated nondimensional parameters have been considered to differ with the temperature. Comparison among the solutions achieved by utilizing numerical results and multi‐step differential transform method (Ms‐DTM) is displayed in excellent agreement. Attention is dedicated to , ‐, and parameters. The governing equations for each case have been explained by an easy and highly perfect series established seminumerical Ms‐DTM utilizing Mathematica 11, which uses mathematical software package. Nanofluids are active for drug carrying and drug delivery systems because of the control with the velocity of fluid.
Timing and duration of hydrological transitions in Arctic polygonal ground from stable isotopes
Authors: Conroy Nathan Alec , Newman Brent David , Heikoop Jeffrey Martin , Perkins George Bradford , Feng Xiahong , Wilson Cathy Jean , Wullschleger Stan Duane
Published: November 2019

Land surface models and Earth system models that include Arctic landscapes must capture the abrupt hydrological transitions that occur during the annual thaw and deepening of the active layer. In this work, stable water isotopes (δ2H and δ18O) are used to appraise hydrologically significant transitions during annual landscape thaw at the Barrow Environmental Observatory (Utqiaġvik, Alaska). These hydrologically significant periods are then linked to annual shifts in the landscape energy balance, deduced from meteorological data and described by the microclimatic periods: Winter, Pre‐Melt, Melt, Post‐Melt, Summer, and Freeze‐Up. The tight coupling of the microclimatic periods with the hydrological transitions supports the use of microclimatic periods as a means of linking polygonal surface water hydrology to meteorological datasets, which provides a mechanism for improving the representation of polygonal surface water hydrology in process‐based models. Rayleigh process reconstruction of the isotopic changes revealed that 19% of winter precipitation was lost to sublimation prior to melting and that 23% of surface water was lost to evaporation during the first 10 days post‐melt. This agrees with evaporation rates reported in a separate study using an eddy covariance flux tower located nearby. An additional 17% was lost to evaporation during the next 33 days. Stable water isotopes are also used to identify the dominant sources of surface water to various hydrogeomorphological features prevalent in polygonal terrain (a lake, a low centre polygon centre, troughs within the rims of low centre polygons, flat centre polygon troughs, a high centre polygon trough, and drainages). Hydrogeomorphologies that retained significant old water or acted as snow drifts are isotopically distinct during the Melt Period and therefore are easily distinguished. Biogeochemical changes related to the annual thaw are also reported and coupled to the hydrological transitions, which provides insight into the sources and sinks of these ions to and from the landscape.