bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovation of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises from the Perspective of Globalization
Authors: Juris Roman , Adamko Peter , Savov Radovan
Published: January 2021

Research background: The presented paper deals with the support of innovative activities of small and medium enterprises in the Slovak Republic. The topicality of the issue is based on the knowledge that small and medium-sized enterprises can respond quickly and effectively to customer requirements and thus to changes resulting from changes in the market. In the era of globalization, the knowledge economy based on three key factors prevails in developed countries - science and research, the quality of human capital and innovative entrepreneurship, which focuses on creating the conditions for the practical use of knowledge, for projecting it into innovation. The aim of the paper is based on theoretical knowledge, analysis of support for innovative activities of small and medium enterprises by the state in the conditions of the Slovak Republic, their readiness to invest in research and development to propose a streamlining support scheme for small and medium enterprises.

Purpose of the article: The determinant of the future sustainable prosperity of the Slovak Republic, as a small open economy, must be the ability of the economy to respond flexibly to global changes and demand.

Methods: The article we used the method of synthesis, the method of abstraction, the method of generalization, the method of description, explanation.

Findings & Value added: The output of the dissertation is an evaluation of the overall state of current support for innovative activities in small and medium-sized enterprises and a proposal for a possible streamlining of this support from the aspect of entrepreneurs themselves.
Differences in the perception of corporate culture as a motivational tool in the SME sector
Authors: Kmecova Iveta , Tlusty Michal
Published: January 2021

Research background: The paper points out the differences in the motivation of employees in SMEs in terms of corporate culture as a motivational tool. The primary goal of the paper is to draw conclusions from hypotheses that analyse corporate culture as a motivational tool. Literary research outlines the issue of personnel activities focusing on the corporate culture as a motivational tool for SMEs in the Czech Republic. The practical part of the paper shows the whole course of specific calculations and evaluation of established hypotheses. At the end of the solution of each hypothesis, its rejection or confirmation is displayed, and this is justified by other methods that confirm this decision.

Purpose of the article: The main purpose of the article is to confirm or reject predetermined hypotheses concerning small and medium-sized enterprises. A specific evaluation of the hypotheses will help to raise the profile of possible problems of small and medium-sized enterprises in the areas of employee motivation.

Methods: Primary data for this article were obtained using an online questionnaire. The data are evaluated using a statistical method comparing the mean values of the samples, specifically using a statistical one-sample test. The research sample consisted of a total of 220 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Czech Republic.

Findings & Value added: The results of the research will confirm or not confirm whether corporate culture is an important motivating tool for small and medium-sized enterprises and whether or not it differs depending on the division of enterprises according to different scales.
Assessment of the Impact of Globalization on the Development of the Russian Transport System
Authors: Podsorin Victor , Ovsiannikova Elena
Published: January 2021

Research background: The article describes the main trends in the globalization of economic processes, analyses the economic situation of world commodity markets, considers factors that influence the development of the transport system of Russia, defines the transport component in the cost of bulk cargo transported by Russian railways, presents a conceptual model of its formation for the purpose of improving tariff policy and competitiveness. A study of the dynamics of market conditions helps to identify factors that increase the efficiency of interaction between cargo-forming enterprises and organizations with the transport complex, develop and justify a system of measures to increase the efficiency of the transport system and ensure the sustainability of the national economy, as well as identify factors that contribute to globalization and the integration of production processes of transnational structures into the world economic system.

Purpose of the article: To develop a methodological approach to assessing the impact of global commodity markets in the context of the globalization of economic processes on the development of the transport system of Russia.

Methods: Analysis, classification, deduction, economic and mathematical modelling.

Findings & Value added: The developed conceptual model for assessing the impact of global commodity markets in the context of the globalization of economic processes on the development of the country’s transport system contributes to the improvement of the tariff policy in the field of freight transportation, creates favourable conditions for increasing freight volumes for both transit and export-import cargoes.
Global Trend of Regional Policy Greening as a Factor of Social and Economic Growth of Regions in the Russian Federation
Authors: Popova Anna , Rudenko Marina
Published: January 2021

Research background: Sustainable development, social and economic growth not damaging the natural environment are one of the most acute problems in the modern world. The issues of the regional sustainable development in the Russian Federation as the purpose of regional policy and aspects of correlation between socio-economic development and state of regional environment were discussed in scientific papers of D.V. Novachenko, D.V. Malova, O.K. Tsapieva, L.V. Shchukina, E.A. Khrabrova, O.V. Vilchinskoy, Yu.G. Neudakhina, A.V., Okuneva, Boronnikov, D.V., E.A. Guseva, D.A., N.N. Yashalova, N.L. Yatsukova, A. Yu. Davankova, L.K., Kazantseva, T.O. Tagaeva, M.F. Zamyatina, P.V. Druzhinin, G.T. Shkiperova, O.V. Potasheva, A.A. Bashirova and others.

Purpose of the article: The purpose of this article is to develop measures to improve socio-economic growth in regions on the base of theoretical and methodological substantiation of greening regional policy.

Methods: Systematic approach, methods of analysis and synthesis, logical and econometric modelling were used in this research.

Findings & Value added: The necessity of including the environmental component in the regional policy structure was approved; the process of regional policy greening was determined; the author’s methodical approach to evaluate the performance of regional policy greening was elaborated; positive changes in social and economic growth were identified with the intensification of regional policy greening; by the example of Perm Krai measures to promote the regional policy greening performance were developed.
The Effects of Globalization on Entrepreneurial Revitalization of Main Urban Areas - Case of Croatia
Authors: Hruška Domagoj , Luković Tihomir , Piplica Damir
Published: January 2021

Research background:The paper argues how the sustainable development of entrepreneurship in urban areas is based on four cornerstones: corruption, size of urban areas, industrial structure and cultural biases. Corruption is a significant social and economic issue that has crippling effect for entrepreneurship. Further on, the superiority of larger cities in generating advanced economies has been recognized since the time of the ancient Greek and medieval Italian city-states, however it is not clear if the same is applicable today as well. Third cornerstone of entrepreneurial development in main urban areas is the industrial structure of these areas. Lastly, the values that drive entrepreneurial action and form entrepreneurial environments are embedded in wider national culture.

Purpose of the article:The aim of the paper is to investigate and describe pivotal influences on entrepreneurial activity as an impetus of sustainable economic development in globalized environment of transition economy urban areas.

Methods:The four factors that influence the level of sustainable development of entrepreneurship in urban areas: level of perceived corruption, size of urban areas, industrial structure and cultural biases are described as well as the correlation between level of entrepreneurial activity and each of these crucial elements of urban revitalization.

Findings & Value added:By examining antecedents and consequences of economic and social circumstances that define environment for fostering entrepreneurial activity in main urban areas in Croatia the paper provides comprehensive tool for strategy development that can be used by policy makers and entrepreneurs alike.
Progress in Sustainable Consumption and Production in Slovakia in Comparison with other EU Countries – Energy Intensity of the Sector
Authors: Rybárová Daniela
Published: January 2021

Research background: Problematic of sustainable consumption and production is a broad conception that is integrating application of advanced methods and techniques of business management, in all areas, including eco-design and innovation, sustainable marketing, risk management and strategic management with a focus on sustainable development for the environment. The European Union has established numerous strategies to support it, the success of which depends on building a sufficient awareness and above all the involvement of all countries in the process of improving the environmental performance of products throughout their life cycle. Building of sustainable consumption and production on the widest scale is influenced by the social and economic dimension, which awareness and understanding makes it possible to encourage and motivate to socially responsible behaviour. In order to face the current challenges, it is essential to change the way we produce and consume.

Purpose of the article: Analyse the financial and economic parameters of selected sectors in dependence on the fulfilment of selected indicators that are measuring progress in sustainable consumption and production in Slovakia in comparison with other EU countries

Methods: Time series analysis, spatial analysis.

Findings & Value added: Systematizing the ways to measure progress in achieving sustainable consumption and production with regards to defined indicators in strategies, policies and action plans of EU following the structure of national economies.
Comparison of The Possibilities of Application of Spectrum and Gaming Theories in Modelling Market Economy Negotiations
Authors: Peleckis Kęstutis , Peleckiene Valentina , Peleckis Kęstutis
Published: January 2021

Research background: In negotiations, in modelling decision-making at both the individual and market levels, it is important to understand and be able to assess important aspects of economic behaviour. The theory of spectrum is proposed to be applied in modelling decision making. The object of the research is the possibilities of application of spectrum and game theories. Classical economic theory does not define subjective parameters of economic behaviour, therefore, when modelling market negotiation strategies, it is difficult to identify and evaluate appropriate parameters of economic behaviour required for decision-making in market negotiations. The spectrum theory approach can be used to model the economy, both at the individual and market levels, which is especially relevant in international business negotiations, where the modelling of solutions and various operations presents opportunities to assess subjective parameters.

Purpose of the article: The aim of the paper is to investigate and compare the application of spectral decay and gambling theories in modelling market economy negotiations.
Research methods: Scientific literature analysis, comparative, logical analysis and synthesis, comparative and generalization methods, game theory, quantum cognition methods.

Findings & Value added: The article examines the basic principles of behavioural economics: the functions of assessing the psychological value and uncertainty of monetary gain or loss, how both theories take these principles into account: game and spectrum.
Determining the dependence of supplementary charges in the ZSSK CARGO tariff in the context of the customer approach, competitiveness, and globalization
Authors: Šperka Adrián , Čamaj Juraj , Zmeškal Ekaterina , Majerčák Jozef
Published: January 2021

Research background: The article deals with the study of the dependencies of selected supplementary charges in rail freight transport. In the environment of a globalized society, it is very important that railway undertakings maintain their competitiveness in an open market. The article is part of a case study that deals with the development of pricing. The research was primarily focused on the structure and development of the price of supplementary charges in the years 2004 – 2020 at Železničná Spoločnosť Cargo Slovakia, j. s. c.

Purpose of the article: Based on two selected supplementary charges, and the hypothesis of whether or not the development of their price is dependent will be verified by means of regression analysis. The aim of the research is to point out of the disproportionate increase in the prices of supplementary charge, which form a significant part of the calculation of the price for transportation. And for most customers it is a priority for the price of transport.

Methods: The article will use a simple regression analysis according to the relationships depending on the type of dependence used (linear, polynomial, ...)

Findings & Value added: The results of the research can help to better set the structure of supplementary charges. The goal of the company should be a satisfied customer and a dominant market share.
Primäre Feldwespengiftallergie im Rheingau: selten oder vielleicht doch nicht so selten?
Authors: Adib-Tezer H. , Bayerl C.
Published: January 2021

Die Hymenopterengiftallergie ist der häufigste Auslöser anaphylaktischer Reaktionen bei Erwachsenen und der zweithäufigste Auslöser bei Kindern nach den Nahrungsmitteln. In West- und Mitteleuropa sind Stiche der Faltenwespenarten Vespula vulgaris und Vespula germanica sowie der Honigbiene Apis mellifera die Hauptauslöser von Anaphylaxien. In Südeuropa, den USA sowie in tropischen und subtropischen Gebieten (v. a. Südamerika) sind Feldwespenarten (Polistes spp.) weit verbreitet und spielen dort als Auslöser von Stichanaphylaxien eine bedeutende Rolle.

Dargestellt wird der außergewöhnliche Fall einer primären Feldwespengiftallergie bei einem 65-jährigen Patienten aus dem Rheingau. Da die Feldwespengift-Immuntherapie in Deutschland keine Zulassung hat, konnte diese unserem Patienten als kausale Therapie nicht angeboten werden. Durch die klimatischen Veränderungen könnte die Feldwespengiftallergie sowohl aktuell als auch zukünftig in Nord- und Westeuropa eine wichtige Rolle einnehmen.
Segmental Neurofibromatosis
Authors: Raju Dimble , Ghosh Nabanita , Das Sayan , Krishnan Prasad
Published: January 2021

Segmental neurofibromas are the rarest variant of neurofibromatosis. We describe one such case in a 34-year-old man with multiple subcutaneous swellings in the posterior aspect of the left lower limb.
Primary Headache Associated with Sexual Activity in Adolescents: Illustrative Cases
Authors: Patel Jinal , Rothner David A.
Published: January 2021

Primary headache associated with sexual activity (PHASA) is well described in adults, but reports in adolescents are lacking. PHASA is likely underreported in adolescents. A delay in or an absence of timely and adequate treatment has the potential to negatively impact normal adolescent psychosexual development. Physicians should consider this disorder in adolescents presenting with headaches, and understand the characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment. We reported two cases of PHASA in adolescents and review the epidemiology, presentation, and management.
Niemann-Pick Disease Type C with Isolated Splenomegaly: A Case Report in a Child
Authors: Torres Bruna Ribeiro , Russo Daniela Otoni , Vuolo Vinícius Andrade Gomes , Borborema Tarcísio Silva , Barbosa André Vinícius Soares , Diniz Lílian Martins Oliveira
Published: January 2021

Niemann-Pick disease type C is an innate error of lysosomal storage metabolism with an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. The disease causes intracellular cholesterol accumulation and changes in sphingolipid metabolism. If cholesterol accumulates, the signs and symptoms of visceral involvement predominate. Neurological involvement results from sphingolipid accumulation. A 7-year-old male patient was referred to a tertiary service for the investigation of asymptomatic splenomegaly. Following an extensive examination, he was diagnosed with Niemann-Pick disease type C. Interestingly, this case's only symptom was splenomegaly.
Acute Arterial Ischemic Stroke in a Treated Child with Hunter's Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Sharma Kamal , Cummock Joshua , Maertens Paul
Published: January 2021

Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) has limited therapeutic effects on neurologic, skeletal, and cardiovascular pathophysiology. We report an acute right-sided flaccid hemiparesis in an 11-year-old boy with the severe neuronopathic phenotype of Hunter's syndrome who was receiving weekly idursulfase ERT. Due to his psychomotor regression and epilepsy, his presentation to the hospital was delayed. Computed tomography scan of brain showed no acute changes or hemorrhage. Stroke code was not called as patient was already outside of the time window for tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) therapy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed diffuse cortical and deep atrophy consistent with his baseline neurological status and restricted diffusion in the territory of the left-middle cerebral artery (MCA) consistent with recent infarction. T1-weighted MRI revealed low signal intensity of the left insular cortex, as well as volume loss, consistent with previous undiagnosed stroke in the same vascular territory. In addition, MR angiogram (MRA) demonstrated left terminal M1 segment MCA occlusion. Echocardiogram showed aortic root dilation and moderate aortic valve insufficiency. Patient was also noted to have bacteremia related to port infection. ERT is limited by blood–brain barrier and the underlying glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) extracellular tissue accumulation which produces a proinflammatory state. GAG and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are known to activate toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4). GAGs released in the extracellular space of intracranial vessels induce inflammation by activating the TLR-4 pathway which is exacerbated by bacterial LPS contributing to focal arteritis. Our case suggests the importance of GAGs in the activation of the TLR-4 pathway as a cause of stroke in Hunter's syndrome.
Cerebral Infarction in Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Is Associated with Old Age, Hypertension, Smoking, and Anti-ADAMTS13 Ig, But Not with Mortality
Authors: Memon Raima , Sui Jingrui , Lin Chen , Zheng X. Long
Published: January 2021

Background Neurological involvement is common in patients with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP), but the frequency, risk factors, and outcomes of these with imaging-confirmed stroke in iTTP are not known.

Methods We selected 66 out of 109 iTTP patients with neurological signs and symptoms and reviewed their CT/MRI (computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging) findings for the evidence of stroke and other clinical information in Alabama TTP Registry.

Results Of these, 52 (78.8%) had their CT/MRI done on admission in whom 22 (42.3%) were positive for multiple acute or chronic infarcts. The patients with image-confirmed ischemic stroke were older, and appeared to be associated with a history of hypertension and smoking. Additionally, patients with imaging-confirmed stroke showed higher plasma concentrations of anti-ADAMTS13 IgG than those without stroke. More interestingly, there was no statistically significant difference in the rate of exacerbation and 60-day mortality between those with and without stroke.

Conclusion Ischemic cerebral infarcts are common findings in brain imaging studies of patients with acute iTTP; old age, chronic hypertension, and smoking, as well as high plasma concentrations of anti-ADAMTS13 IgG may be the potential risk factors for cerebral infarction in these patients. The presence of image-confirmed ischemic stroke, however, does not predict exacerbation and 60-day mortality, although the long-term effect of such ischemic brain damage on cognitive function and quality of life remains to be determined.
Organic horticulture.
Authors: Dorais Martine
Published: January 2021

Organic agriculture, also called biological or ecological agriculture, is defined by the International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movements (IFOAM) as a "production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems and people" (http://www.ifoam.org). It is known as an environmental-friendly production system that integrates traditional, modern and innovative techniques in order to promote biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity, with minimal use of off-farm inputs. Consequently, organic agriculture is aiming at cultural practices that will maintain or improve soil health, have a sustainable water and waste management, limit the use of fossil energy, adopt nutrient-balanced approaches to limit nutrient leaching into ground water and soil salinization and endorse mechanical and biological control of pests. Organic horticulture ranges from strict in farm-closed systems limiting external inputs to its minimum level, to systems that only follow the organic certification standards. From a broader perspective, organic horticulture should contribute to the global challenges via the nutrition security and the well-being of the populations (Alsanius et al., 2016). It should also be economically viable, socially fair, culturally diverse, transparently accountable and inclusive (Arbenz et al., 2016). Organic agriculture usually provides higher ecosystem services and social benefits as compared to conventional farming (Reganold and Wachter, 2016).
Phosphorylation of PKCδ by FER tips the balance from EGFR degradation to recycling
Authors: Lonic Ana , Gehling Freya , Belle Leila , Li Xiaochun , Schieber Nicole L. , Nguyen Elizabeth V. , Goodall Gregory J. , Parton Robert G. , Daly Roger J. , Khew-Goodall Yeesim
Published: January 2021

Receptor degradation terminates signaling by activated receptor tyrosine kinases. Degradation of EGFR occurs in lysosomes and requires the switching of RAB5 for RAB7 on late endosomes to enable their fusion with the lysosome, but what controls this critical switching is poorly understood. We show that the tyrosine kinase FER alters PKCδ function by phosphorylating it on Y374, and that phospho-Y374-PKCδ prevents RAB5 release from nascent late endosomes, thereby inhibiting EGFR degradation and promoting the recycling of endosomal EGFR to the cell surface. The rapid association of phospho-Y374-PKCδ with EGFR-containing endosomes is diminished by PTPN14, which dephosphorylates phospho-Y374-PKCδ. In triple-negative breast cancer cells, the FER-dependent phosphorylation of PKCδ enhances EGFR signaling and promotes anchorage-independent cell growth. Importantly, increased Y374-PKCδ phosphorylation correlating with arrested late endosome maturation was identified in ∼25% of triple-negative breast cancer patients, suggesting that dysregulation of this pathway may contribute to their pathology.
High-efficacy subcellular micropatterning of proteins using fibrinogen anchors
Authors: Watson Joseph L. , Aich Samya , Oller-Salvia Benjamí , Drabek Andrew A. , Blacklow Stephen C. , Chin Jason , Derivery Emmanuel
Published: January 2021

Protein micropatterning allows proteins to be precisely deposited onto a substrate of choice and is now routinely used in cell biology and in vitro reconstitution. However, drawbacks of current technology are that micropatterning efficiency can be variable between proteins and that proteins may lose activity on the micropatterns. Here, we describe a general method to enable micropatterning of virtually any protein at high specificity and homogeneity while maintaining its activity. Our method is based on an anchor that micropatterns well, fibrinogen, which we functionalized to bind to common purification tags. This enhances micropatterning on various substrates, facilitates multiplexed micropatterning, and dramatically improves the on-pattern activity of fragile proteins like molecular motors. Furthermore, it enhances the micropatterning of hard-to-micropattern cells. Last, this method enables subcellular micropatterning, whereby complex micropatterns simultaneously control cell shape and the distribution of transmembrane receptors within that cell. Altogether, these results open new avenues for cell biology.
Key comparison BIPM.RI(I)-K1 of the air-kerma standards of the BEV, Austria and the BIPM in 60Co gamma radiation
Authors: Kessler C , Burns D , Steurer A , Tiefenboeck W , Merza V
Published: January 2021

Main text

A new key comparison of the standards for air kerma of the Bundesamt f¨r Eich- und Vermessungswesen (BEV), Austria and of the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) was carried out in the 60Co radiation beam of the BIPM in July 2020. The comparison result, evaluated as a ratio of the BEV and the BIPM standards for air kerma, is 1.0030 with a combined standard uncertainty of 2.5 parts in 103. The result agrees within the uncertainties with the direct comparison carried out in 2009. The results are analysed and presented in terms of degrees of equivalence, suitable for entry in the BIPM key comparison database.

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCRI, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Tunable co-doped dye laser of coumarin 440 and coumarin 460
Authors: Wang Can , Feng Ce , Lu Zhenzhong
Published: January 2021

The laser performance of coumarin 440 (C440) and coumarin 460 (C460) mixture is studied. The mixture dyes demonstrated broader and more efficient tuning curves compared with those of coumarin 440 and coumarin 460. A wide tuning range from 421 nm to 482 nm is achieved. The highest conversion efficiency of 12.2% is obtained at 453 nm. Comparing with the efficiencies of individual dye C440 and C460, which are ∼5%, the tuning range and the conversion efficiency of the coumarin 440 (C440) and coumarin 460 (C460) mixture are the best under the same condition so far. All our results indicate that high laser performance can be achieved using the co-doped laser dyes of coumarin 440 and coumarin 460.
Constraints on the kinetic energy of type-Ic supernova explosion from young PSR J1906 + 0746 in a double neutron star candidate*
Authors: Yang Yi-Yan , Zhang Cheng-Min , Zhang Jian-Wei , Wang De-Hua
Published: January 2021

So far among the nineteen pairs of detected double neutron star (DNS) systems, it is a usual fact that the first-born recycled pulsar is detected, however the youngest DNS system PSR J1906+0746, with the characteristic age of 113 kyr, is one of the three detected DNS as a non-recycled and second-born NS, which is believed to be formed by an electron capture or a low energy ultra-stripped iron core-collapse supernova (SN) explosion. The SN remnant around PSR J1906+0746 is too dim to be observed by optical telescopes, then its x-ray flux limit has been given by Chandra. A reference pulsar PSR J1509-5850 with the young characteristic age of 154 kyr was chosen as an object of comparison, which has an SN remnant observed by Chandra and is believed to be formed by iron core SN explosion. We impose a restriction on the maximum kinetic energy of electron-capture (EC) SN explosion that induces the formation of PSR J1906+0746. The estimated result is (4–8)×1050 erg (1 erg = 10−7 J), which is consistent with that of the published simulations of the EC process, i.e., a lower value than that of the conventional iron core SN explosion of (1–2) × 1051 erg. As suggested, EC process for NS formation is pertained to the subluminous type Ic SN by the helium star with ONeMg core, thus for the first time we derived the kinetic energy of EC SN explosion of DNS, which may be reconciled with the recent observation of type Ic SN 2014ft with kinetic energy of 2 × 1050 erg.
Graphene/SrTiO3 interface-based UV photodetectors with high responsivity*
Authors: Yue Heng , Hu Anqi , Liu Qiaoli , Tian Huijun , Hu Chengri , Ren Xiansong , Chen Nianyu , Ge Chen , Jin Kuijuan , Guo Xia
Published: January 2021

Strontium titanate (SrTiO3), which is a crucial perovskite oxide with a direct energy band gap of 3.2 eV, holds great promise for ultraviolet (UV) photodetection. However, the response performance of the conventional SrTiO3-based photodetectors is limited by the large relative dielectric constant of the material, which reduces the internal electric field for electron-hole pair separation to form a current collected by electrodes. Recently, graphene/semiconductor hybrid photodetectors by van-der-Waals heteroepitaxy method demonstrate ultrahigh sensitivity, which is benefit from the interface junction architecture and then prolonged lifetime of photoexcited carriers. Here, a graphene/SrTiO3 interface-based photodetector is demonstrated with an ultrahigh responsivity of 1.2 × 106 A/W at the wavelength of 325 nm and ∼ 2.4 × 104 A/W at 261 nm. The corresponding response time is in the order of ∼ ms. Compared with graphene/GaN interface junction-based hybrid photodetectors, ∼ 2 orders of magnitude improvement of the ultrahigh responsivity originates from a gain mechanism which correlates with the large work function difference induced long photo-carrier lifetime as well as the low background carrier density. The performance of high responsivity and fast response speed facilitates SrTiO3 material for further efforts seeking practical applications.
A pressure-calibration method of wavelength modulation spectroscopy in sealed microbial growth environment*
Authors: Wang Kun-Yang , Shao Jie , Shao Li-Gang , Chen Jia-Jin , Wang Gui-Shi , Liu Kun , Gao Xiao-Ming
Published: January 2021

A new pressure-calibration method for calibrating the reduction of second harmonic (2f) amplitude caused by pressure broadening effect in sealed microbial growth environment is present. The new method combines with linewidth compensation and modulation depth compensation and makes the 2f amplitude accurately retrieve metabolic CO2 in microbial growth. In order to verify the method, a simulation experiment is developed, in which the increasing CO2 concentration leads to the increasing pressure. Comparing with the relation between the traditional 2f amplitude and gas concentration, there is a monotonous relation between the calibrated 2f amplitude and CO2 concentration, particularly, a linear relation is present when the CO2 concentration is replaced with the CO2 particle number. In terms of microbial measurement, the growth of Escherichia coli is measured, and the culture bottle is sealed during the microbial growth process. The experimental results show that, comparing to the microbial growth retrieved by traditional 2f amplitude, the calibrated 2f amplitude can accurately retrieve microbial growth in sealed environment.
Effect of metal nanoparticle doping concentration on surface morphology and field emission properties of nano-diamond films*
Authors: Wang Yao , Yu Sheng-Wang , Xue Yan-Peng , Hei Hong-Jun , Wu Yan-Xia , Shen Yan-Yan
Published: January 2021

Nano-diamond particles are co-deposited on Ti substrates with metal (Ti/Ni) nanoparticles (NPs) by the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) method combined with a furnace annealing at 800 °C under N2 atmosphere. Modifications of structural and electron field emission (EFE) properties of the metal-doped films are investigated with different metal NPs concentrations. Our results show that the surface characteristics and EFE performances of the samples are first enhanced and then reduced with metal NPs concentration increasing. Both the Ti-doped and Ni-doped nano-diamond composite films exhibit optimal EFE and microstructural performances when the doping quantity is 5 mg. Remarkably enhanced EFE properties with a low turn-on field of 1.38 V/μm and a high current density of 1.32 mA/cm2 at an applied field of 2.94 V/μm are achieved for Ni-doped nano-diamond films, and are superior to those for Ti-doped ones. The enhancement of the EFE properties for the Ti-doped films results from the formation of the TiC-network after annealing. However, the doping of electron-rich Ni NPs and formation of high conductive graphitic phase are considered to be the factor, which results in marvelous EFE properties for these Ni-doped nano-diamond films.
The density property for Calogero–Moser spaces
Authors: Andrist Rafael
Published: January 2021

We prove the algebraic density property for the Calogero–Moser spaces

C

n

{\mathcal {C}_{n}}

, and give a description of the identity component of the group of holomorphic automorphisms of

C

n

{\mathcal {C}_{n}}

.
Yeast RNA exosome activity is necessary for maintaining cell wall stability through proper protein glycosylation
Authors: Novačić Ana , Beauvais Valentin , Oskomić Marina , Štrbac Lucija , Dantec Aurélia Le , Rahmouni A. Rachid , Stuparević Igor
Published: January 2021

Genes encoding proteins involved in the early steps of protein glycosylation are dysregulated in yeast RNA exosome mutants through mechanisms that involve increased accumulation of noncoding RNAs, leading to cell wall instability.
Persistent growth of microtubules at low density
Authors: Burakov Anton , Vorobjev Ivan , Semenova Irina , Cowan Ann , Carson John , Wu Yi , Rodionov Vladimir
Published: January 2021

We describe a novel mechanism for regulation of microtubule dynamics that relates the behavior of microtubules to their local density. In densely populated areas of cytoplasm, microtubules display dynamic instability, whereas in sparsely populated areas they persistently grow. This behavior allows them to rapidly fill nascent areas of cytoplasm.
Provocative Questions in Behavioral Medicine and the Acceleration of our Science
Authors: Diefenbach Michael A , Phillips Alison , Bullock Lindsay
Published: January 2021

A visioning initiative among members of SBM has identified new areas of investigations, such as behavioral medicine’s need to address climate change, gun violence and science communication. These areas emerged along-side traditional areas of behavioral medicine such as decreasing health inequity and integrating behavioral medicine into health care systems.
Accelerating Our Science: Finding Innovative Solutions to Tomorrow’s Health Challenges
Authors: Phillips L Alison , Diefenbach Michael A
Published: January 2021

This introduction to the special issue outlines key ways that behavioral medicine researchers can accelerate their science. The authors highlight the 2020 Society of Behavioral Medicine's annual meeting plenary sessions, that fit this theme.
Getting the Most From Surveys: How Method Selection and Method Modification Impact Butterfly Survey Data
Authors: Kral-O’Brien Katherine C , Antonsen Adrienne K , Hovick Torre J , Limb Ryan F , Harmon Jason P
Published: January 2021

Many methods are used to survey butterfly populations, with line transect and area surveys being prominent. Observers are typically limited to search within 5 or 10 m from the line, while observers are unrestricted in larger specified search regions in area surveys. Although methods differ slightly, the selection is often based on producing defendable data for conservation, maximizing data quality, and minimizing effort. To guide method selection, we compared butterfly surveys using 1) line versus area methods and 2) varying width transects (5 m, 10 m, or unrestricted) using count data from surveys in North Dakota from 2015 to 2018. Between line and area surveys, we detected more individuals with area surveys, even when accounting for effort. However, both methods accumulated new species at similar rates. When comparing transect methodology, we detected nearly 60% more individuals and nine more species when transect width increased from 5 m to unrestricted, despite similar effort across methodology. Overall, we found line surveys slightly less efficient at detecting individuals, but they collected similar species richness to area surveys when accounting for effort. Additionally, line surveys allow the use of unrestricted-width transects with distance sampling procedures, which were more effective at detecting species and individuals while providing a means to correct count data over the same transect length. Methods that reduce effort and accurately depict communities are especially important for conservation when long-term datasets are unavailable.
Semisynthesis of prunetin, a bioactive O-methylated isoflavone from naringenin, by the sequential deacetylation of chalcone intermediates and oxidative rearrangement
Authors: Sugai Takeshi , Hanaya Kengo , Higashibayashi Shuhei
Published: January 2021

Prunetin (4′,5-dihydroxy-7-methoxyisoflavone) was semisynthesized in 8 steps from readily available naringenin in 26% total yield. The key reaction was chemoenzymatic sequential deacetylation to 6′-acetoxy-2′,4″-dihydroxy-4′-methoxychalcone, the in situ-formed precursor for thallium(III) nitrate-mediated oxidative rearrangement.
One-pot enzymatic synthesis of 2-deoxy-scyllo-inosose from d-glucose and polyphosphate
Authors: Kudo Fumitaka , Mori Ayaka , Koide Mai , Yajima Ryo , Takeishi Ryohei , Miyanaga Akimasa , Eguchi Tadashi
Published: January 2021

2-Deoxy-scyllo-inosose (2DOI, [2S,3R,4S,5R]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydroxycyclohexan-1-one) is a biosynthetic intermediate of 2-deoxystreptamine-containing aminoglycoside antibiotics, including butirosin, kanamycin, and neomycin. In producer microorganisms, 2DOI is constructed from d-glucose 6-phosphate (G6P) by 2-deoxy-scyllo-inosose synthase (DOIS) with the oxidized form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). 2DOI is also known as a sustainable biomaterial for production of aromatic compounds and a chiral cyclohexane synthon. In this study, a one-pot enzymatic synthesis of 2DOI from d-glucose and polyphosphate was investigated. First, 3 polyphosphate glucokinases (PPGKs) were examined to produce G6P from d-glucose and polyphosphate. A PPGK derived from Corynebacterium glutamicum (cgPPGK) was found to be suitable for G6P production under ordinary enzymatic conditions. Next, 7 DOISs were examined for the one-pot enzymatic reaction. As a result, cgPPGK and BtrC, the latter of which is a DOIS derived from the butirosin producer Bacillus circulans, achieved nearly full conversion of d-glucose to 2DOI in the presence of polyphosphate.
Recent applications of N-acyl imidazole chemistry in chemical biology
Authors: Mino Takeharu , Sakamoto Seiji , Hamachi Itaru
Published: January 2021

N-Acyl imidazoles are unique electrophiles that exhibit moderate reactivity, relatively long-half life, and high solubility in water. Thanks to their tunable reactivity and chemical selectivity, the application of N-acyl imidazole derivatives has launched to a number of chemical biology researches, which include chemical synthesis of peptide/protein, chemical labeling of native proteins of interest (POIs), and structural analysis and functional manipulation of RNAs. Since proteins and RNAs play pivotal roles in numerous biological events in all living organisms, the methods that enable the chemical modification of endogenously existing POIs and RNAs in live cells may offer a variety of opportunities not only for fundamental scientific study but also for biotechnology and drug development. In this review, we discuss the recent progress of N-acyl imidazole chemistry that contributes to the chemical labeling and functional control of endogenous proteins and RNAs under multimolecularly crowded biological conditions of live cells.
Recent advances in the total syntheses of indole diterpenoids
Authors: Enomoto Masaru
Published: January 2021

Indole diterpenoids constitute a large family of natural products that are characterized by a hybrid molecular architecture consisting of an indole nucleus and diterpenoid moiety. Their pharmacologically and agriculturally important biological properties as well as intriguing molecular architectures have attracted much attention from many synthetic organic chemists. In 2012, we succeeded in the concise total synthesis of a paspalane-type indole diterpenoid, namely paspalinine, by developing a highly efficient indole ring formation protocol. After the report of this total synthesis, 4 research groups achieved the total syntheses of other paspalane- and nodulisporane-type indole diterpenoids using current state-of-the-art methods. This review summarizes the total syntheses of the paspalane- and nodulisporane-type indole diterpenoids that were described in the last 10 years.
Unified synthesis and assessment of tumor cell migration inhibitory activity of optically active UTKO1, originally designed moverastin analog
Authors: Ogura Yusuke , Kobayashi Hiroki , Imoto Masaya , Watanabe Hidenori , Takikawa Hirosato
Published: January 2021

UTKO1 is a synthetic analog of a natural tumor cell migration inhibitor, moverastin, isolated from microbial extracts of Aspergillus sp. 7720. UTKO1 was initially developed as a mixture of the stereoisomers. In this study, a concise and unified synthesis of the 4 optically active stereoisomers of UTKO1 was achieved from a known optically pure dihydro-α-ionone through a 5-step sequence. The key transformation in the synthesis was a Nozaki–Hiyama–Kishi (NHK) reaction between an optically active enoltriflate and a known aldehyde to install the chiral allylic hydroxy group at C2′. Simple chromatographic separation of the 2 diastereomers with regard to the allylic hydroxy group was possible by the derivatization into the corresponding acetals with Nemoto's optical resolution reagent, (S)- or (R)-5-allyl-2-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]octene (ALBO). All 4 synthetic stereoisomers of UTKO1 exhibited comparable tumor cell migration inhibitory activity.
Genetic sequence analysis and characterization of bioactive compounds in mushroom-forming fungi
Authors: Suzuki Tomohiro
Published: January 2021

Mushroom-forming fungi produce unique bioactive compounds that have potential applications as medicines, supplements, and agrochemicals. Thus, it is necessary to clarify the biosynthetic pathways of these compounds using genome and transcriptome analyses. This review introduces some of our research on bioactive compounds isolated from mushrooms, as well as genetic analysis with next-generation sequencing.
Chemical studies on bioactive compounds related to higher fungi
Authors: Kawagishi Hirokazu
Published: January 2021

Hericium erinaceus (Yamabushitake in Japan) is a well-known edible and medicinal mushroom. We discovered antidementia compounds, hericenones C to H, from the fruiting bodies and erinacine A to I from the cultured mycelia of the fungus. Based on the data of the compounds, several clinical experiments were performed using the fungus. “Fairy rings” is a phenomenon that turfgrass grows more prolific or inhibited than the surrounding area as a ring and then occasionally mushrooms develop on the ring. We found fairy-ring causing principles “fairy chemicals” and the biosynthetic routes of the compounds on the purine metabolic pathway in plants and mushrooms.
Fluorescent-dependent comparative Ct method for qPCR gene expression analysis in IVF clinical pre-implantation embryonic testing
Authors: Lal Arnav , Roudebush William E , Mainigi Monica , Chosed Renee J
Published: January 2021

The use of quantitative PCR (qPCR) and other polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods in the field of human in vitro fertilization blastocoel fluid analysis can potentially be utilized for assisting clinicians in embryo selection based on specific gene expression patterns. Since typical Comparative cycle threshold (Ct) analysis utilizes one threshold for runs per gene target and requires an inherent control group, this method is inadequate for analysis of small stochastic systems, such as embryonic-derived fluid. We mathematically demonstrate analytical modifications upon the Comparative Ct qPCR workflow to incorporate a variable fluorescence threshold (utilizing only the parameters defined in the Comparative Ct method), and subsequently demonstrate the typical workflow in which this modified method can successfully quantifiably analyze embryonic blastocoel fluid qPCR analysis.
Mortality after surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism: results from a nationwide cohort
Authors: Nilsson M , Ivarsson K , Thier M , Nordenström E , Bergenfelz A , Almquist M
Published: January 2021

Background

Contemporary patients with primary hyperparathyroidism are often diagnosed with mildly raised serum calcium levels. Previous studies have reported increased mortality in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine whether contemporary patients operated for primary hyperparathyroidism have higher mortality than the general population, and whether mortality in these patients is associated with serum calcium concentration, adenoma weight or multiglandular disease.

Methods

Patients from a Swedish national cohort consisting of patients registered in the Scandinavian Quality Register for Thyroid, Parathyroid, and Adrenal Surgery 2003–2013, were matched with population controls. The National Patient Register, the Swedish Cause of Death Register, and socioeconomic data were cross-linked. End of follow-up was 10 years after surgery, 31 December 2015, or emigration. Mortality was analysed by standardized mortality ratio, Kaplan–Meier survival estimates, and univariable and multivariable Cox regression. Multiple imputation by chained equations was performed on missing data.

Results

After exclusions, there were 5009 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and 14 983 controls. Multivariable Cox regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, Charlson Co-morbidity Index, marital status, level of education, disposable income, and period of surgery showed lower mortality in patients than controls (hazard ratio (HR) 0.83, 95 per cent c.i. 0.75 to 0.92). In univariable Cox regression of mortality in patients, serum calcium concentration (mmoles per litre) was associated with mortality (HR 2.20, 1.53 to 3.16). This association remained in multivariable Cox regression after multiple imputation (HR 1.79, 1.19 to 2.70).

Conclusion

Mortality was not increased in patients operated for primary hyperparathyroidism compared with controls in a contemporary setting. Preoperative serum calcium concentration might, however, influence survival.