bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promyelocytic leukemia protein promotes the phenotypic switch of smooth muscle cells in atherosclerotic plaques of human coronary arteries
Authors: Karle Weronika , Becker Samuel , Stenzel Philipp , Knosalla Christoph , Siegel Günter , Baum Oliver , Zakrzewicz Andreas , Berkholz Janine
Published: March 2021

Promyelocytic leukemia protein (PML) is a constitutive component of PML nuclear bodies (PML-NBs), which function as stress-regulated SUMOylation factories. Since PML can also act as a regulator of the inflammatory and fibroproliferative responses characteristic of atherosclerosis, we investigated whether PML is implicated in this disease. Immunoblotting, ELISA and immunohistochemistry showed a stronger expression of PML in segments of human atherosclerotic coronary arteries and sections compared with non-atherosclerotic ones. In particular, PML was concentrated in PML-NBs from α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-immunoreactive cells in plaque areas. To identify possible functional consequences of PML-accumulation in this cell type, differentiated human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (dHCASMCs) were transfected with a vector containing the intact PML-gene. These PML-transfected dHCASMCs showed higher levels of small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO)-1-dependent SUMOylated proteins, but lower levels of markers for smooth muscle cell (SMC) differentiation and revealed more proliferation and migration activities than dHCASMCs transfected with the vector lacking a specific gene insert or with the vector containing a mutated PML-gene coding for a PML-form without SUMOylation activity. When dHCASMCs were incubated with different cytokines, higher PML-levels were observed only after interferon γ (IFN-γ) stimulation, while the expression of differentiation markers was lower. However, these phenotypic changes were not observed in dHCASMCs treated with small interfering RNA (siRNA) suppressing PML-expression prior to IFN-γ stimulation. Taken together, our results imply that PML is a previously unknown functional factor in the molecular cascades associated with the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and is positioned in vascular SMCs (VSMCs) between upstream IFN-γ activation and downstream SUMOylation.
Einkaufen für Fortgeschrittene – Kolumne
Authors: Schiewack Michael
Published: March 2021

Ein Einkaufstraining für einen isoliert lebenden Klienten hatte Michael Schiewack schon länger auf dem Schirm. Ermöglicht hat es ihm – oh Wunder – der Corona-Lockdown!
Water exchange-assisted versus carbon dioxide-insufflated single-balloon enteroscopy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liu Shaopeng , Dong Tao , Shi Yupeng , Luo Hui , Xue Xianmin , Zhu Yijin , Wang Xiangping , Wang Biaoluo , Liang Shuhui , Pan Yanglin , Guo Xuegang , Wu Kaichun
Published: March 2021

Background Single-balloon enteroscopy (SBE) is a valuable but difficult modality for the diagnosis and treatment of small-bowel disease. The water exchange method has the advantage of facilitating intubation during colonoscopy. Here, we evaluated the effects of water exchange on procedure-related variables related to SBE.

Methods This randomized controlled trial was conducted in a tertiary-care referral center in China. Patients due for attempted total enteroscopy were randomly allocated to undergo water exchange-assisted (water exchange group) or carbon dioxide-insufflated enteroscopy (CO2 group). All patients were planned to undergo both anterograde and retrograde procedures. The primary outcome was the total enteroscopy rate. Secondary outcomes included the maximal insertion depth, positive findings, procedural time, and adverse events.

Results: In total, 110 patients were enrolled, with 55 in each group. Baseline characteristics between the two groups were comparable. Total enteroscopy was achieved in 58.2 % (32/55) of the water exchange group and 36.4 % (20/55) of the control group (P = 0.02). The mean (standard deviation) estimated intubation depth was 521.2 (101.4) cm in the water exchange group and 481.6 (95.2) cm in the CO2 group (P = 0.04). The insertion time was prolonged in the water exchange group compared with the CO2 group (178.9 [45.1] minutes vs. 154.2 [27.6] minutes; P < 0.001). Endoscopic findings and adverse events were comparable between the two groups.

Conclusions: The water exchange method improved the total enteroscopy rate and increased the intubation depth during SBE. The use of water exchange did not increase the complications of enteroscopy.
Tetrabutylammonium Iodide (TBAI) Catalyzed Electrochemical C–H Bond Activation of 2-Arylated N-Methoxyamides for the Synthesis of Phenanthridinones
Authors: Bhanage Bhalchandra M. , Subramanian Kripa , Yedage Subhash L. , Sethi Kashish
Published: March 2021

An electrochemical method for the synthesis of phenanthridinones through constant-potential electrolysis (CPE) mediated by Bu4NI (TBAI) is reported. The protocol is metal and oxidant free, and proceeds with 100% current efficiency. TBAI plays a dual role as both a redox catalyst and a supporting electrolyte. The intramolecular C–H activation proceeds under mild reaction conditions and with a short reaction time through electrochemically generated amidyl radicals. The reaction has been scaled up to a gram level, showing its practicability, and the synthetic utility and applicability of the protocol have been demonstrated by a direct one-step synthesis of the bioactive compound phenaglaydon.
Personalized Massive Open Online Course for Childhood Cancer Survivors: Behind the Scenes
Authors: Berger Claire , Casagranda Léonie , Sudour-Bonnange Hélène , Massoubre Catherine , Dalle Jean-Hugues , Teinturier Cecile , Martin-Beuzart Sylvie , Guillot Pascale , Lanlo Virginie , Schneider Muriele , Dal Molin Bernard , Dal Molin Michèle , Mounier Olivier , Garcin Arnauld , Fresneau Brice , Clavel Jacqueline , Demoor-Goldschmidt Charlotte
Published: March 2021

Background Today, in France, it is estimated that 1 in 850 people aged between 20 and 45 years has been treated for childhood cancer, which equals 40,000 to 50,000 people. As late effects of the cancer and its treatment affect a large number of childhood cancer survivors (CCS) and only 30% of them benefit from an efficient long-term follow-up care for prevention, early detection, and treatment of late effects, health education of CCS represents a challenge of public health.

Objectives Massive open online courses (MOOCs) are a recent innovative addition to the online learning landscape. This entertaining and practical tool could easily allow a deployment at a national level and make reliable information available for all the CCS in the country, wherever they live.

Methods The MOOC team brings together a large range of specialists involved in the long-term follow-up care, but also associations of CCS, video producers, a communication consultant, a pedagogical designer, a cartoonist and a musician. We have designed three modules addressing transversal issues (lifestyle, importance of psychological support, risks of fertility problems) and eight modules covering organ-specific problems. Detailed data on childhood cancer treatments received were used to allocate the specific modules to each participant.

Results This paper presents the design of the MOOC entitled “Childhood Cancer, Living Well, After,” and how its feasibility and its impact on CCS knowledge will be measured. The MOOC about long-term follow-up after childhood cancer, divided into 11 modules, involved 130 participants in its process, and resulted in a 170-minute film. The feasibility study included 98 CCS (31 males vs. 67 females; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion Such personalized, free, and online courses with an online forum and a possible psychologist consultation based on unique characteristics and needs of each survivor population could improve adherence to long-term follow-up without alarming them unnecessarily.
Moving Faster than the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Rapid, Digital Transformation of a Public Health System
Authors: Sullivan Clair , Wong Ides , Adams Emily , Fahim Magid , Fraser Jon , Ranatunga Gihan , Busato Matthew , McNeil Keith
Published: March 2021

Background Queensland, Australia has been successful in containing the COVID-19 pandemic. Underpinning that response has been a highly effective virus containment strategy which relies on identification, isolation, and contact tracing of cases. The dramatic emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic rendered traditional paper-based systems for managing contact tracing no longer fit for purpose. A rapid digital transformation of the public health contact tracing system occurred to support this effort.

Objectives The objectives of the digital transformation were to shift legacy systems (paper or standalone electronic systems) to a digitally enabled public health system, where data are centered around the consumer rather than isolated databases. The objective of this paper is to outline this case study and detail the lessons learnt to inform and give confidence to others contemplating digitization of public health systems in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods This case study is set in Queensland, Australia. Universal health care is available. A multidisciplinary team was established consisting of clinical informaticians, developers, data strategists, and health information managers. An agile “pair-programming” approach was undertaken to application development and extensive change efforts were made to maximize adoption of the new digital workflows. Data governance and flows were changed to support rapid management of the pandemic.

Results The digital coronavirus application (DCOVA) is a web-based application that securely captures information about people required to quarantine and creates a multiagency secure database to support a successful containment strategy.

Conclusion Most of the literature surrounding digital transformation allows time for significant consultation, which was simply not possible under crisis conditions. Our observation is that staff was willing to adopt new digital systems because the reason for change (the COVID-19 pandemic) was clearly pressing. This case study highlights just how critical a unified purpose, is to successful, rapid digital transformation.
Serum Progesterone Levels as Predictor of Outcome in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Analysis of Cohort of 100 Patients
Authors: Chhiber Sarbjit Singh , Gul Adfer , Arif Sajad , Wani Abrar Ahad , Ramzan Altaf Umar
Published: March 2021

Despite advances in research and improved neurological intensive care in recent years, the clinical outcome of severely head injured patients is still poor. Primary insult is followed by a complex cascade of molecular and biochemical events that lead to neuroinflammation, brain edema, and delayed neuronal death. No specific pharmacological therapy is currently available which prevents the development of secondary brain injuries, and most therapeutic strategies have failed in translation from bench to bedside. There are limitations of clinical and radiological methods in delineating the exact severity and prognosis of traumatic brain injury (TBI). A myriad complex biochemical markers are under investigation to delineate the extent of brain tissue damage and to independently predict the outcome, but a search for simple biomarker still eludes the research. Progesterone, a gonadal hormone and a neurosteroid, although controversial as a neuroprotective agent, may hold promise as a simple biochemical marker of the outcome in severe TBI.
Comparative Study for Microleakage in Three Retrograde Materials for Filling Root End—Biodentine, Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, and Portland Cement: An In Vitro Preliminary Study
Authors: Bhatia Shagun , Jain Ankush , Jain Kanu , Bishnoi Atul Kumar
Published: March 2021

Introduction Insufficient seal of apex is a significant reason for an endodontist’s disappointment. The materials for root-end filling utilized ought to forestall departure of possible pollutants into periapical areas. The objective of this analysis was to compare the fixing capacity of three materials: white mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), white Portland cement (PC), and Biodentine. This was analyzed through a test checking for dye leakage.

Materials and Methods Thirty human teeth having one root were subjected to instrumentation followed by gutta-percha obturation. An apical pit was readied for the material. The tooth samples were then grouped into three trial bunches: Group I, Biodentine; Group II, white MTA; and Group III, white PC. Root-end pits in the test bunches were loaded-up with the exploratory materials. The tooth samples were kept in India ink for a duration of 72 hours. The degree of color infiltration was estimated with the help of a stereomicroscope at 16× amplification. Color entrance was observed in the whole root in vitro.

Results The sequelae of this inspection found that Biodentine shows least leakage compared to MTA and PC.

Conclusion Biodentine shows less microleakage compared to MTA and PC.
Molecular structure and vibrational spectra of isolated nucleosides at low temperatures (Review article)
Authors: Ivanov A. Yu. , Stepanian S. G.
Published: March 2021

The application of various action spectroscopy and absorption spectroscopy methods for studying the structure of biological molecules and their constituent fragments in an isolated state is considered. The main attention is paid to the results achieved in the study of the nucleosides which are the structural units of DNA and RNA. It has been demonstrated that modern low-temperature spectroscopy methods allow registration the vibrational spectra of isolated nucleosides in neutral or ionized form. It was shown that most of the nucleosides can be converted into the gas phase by prolonged evaporation from the Knudsen cell without thermal decomposition. Cooling molecules to cryogenic temperatures plays an important role in these studies. The conformational equilibrium of the gas phase between syn and anti subsets of nucleosides is maintained due to fast cooling when frozen in inert matrices. Within these subsets, interconversion processes between conformers can occur during cooling if the conformers are separated by low energy barriers. In inert gas matrices at 6 K, subsets of the syn-conformers of deoxyribonucleosides are mainly frozen with the C2′-endo structure of the deoxyribose ring. The structures of molecular ions of nucleosides are very different from their neutral forms. In particular protonation leads to the domination of the enol forms of thymidine, as well as syn-conformations of adenosine, stabilized by the intramolecular hydrogen bond N3H+•••O5.
New express method for melatonin determination in the human body
Authors: Harbuz D. O. , Pospelov A. P. , Belan V. I. , Gudimenko V. A. , Vakula V. L. , Kamarchuk L. V. , Volkova Y. V. , Kamarchuk G. V.
Published: March 2021

Original fundamental properties of Yanson point contacts allow their application to research and technology development at a wide range of surrounding conditions. At low temperature these nanoobjects can be used as a main instrument of Yanson point-contact spectroscopy. At room temperature they can serve as a sensitive element of advanced nanosensors with excellent performance. The most important advantage of point-contact sensors in investigating complex gas media is the spectral nature of the response signal. The discovery of the spectral capabilities of point-contact sensors in the analysis of complex gas media allows us to speak in terms of spectral multifunctionality of Yanson point contacts and the expansion of the possibilities of their spectral application from the spectroscopy of electron-phonon interaction at low temperatures to spectroscopy of gaseous media at room temperatures. Using the spectral response of point-contact sensors, in this work we propose a new non-invasive method for the determination of melatonin, one of the important hormones characterizing the state of the human body. A series of procedures was proposed to find melatonin concentration in the human body as function of the response of a point-contact sensor to the action of the exhaled breath. It has been shown that the proposed method is accurate enough to be used for medical purposes in real time. The results of the study suggest that the problem of non-invasive determination of melatonin concentration in the human body can be successfully solved by using breath tests based on Yanson point contacts.
Irradiating a quantum ring to regulate spin-dependent transport of electrons
Authors: Frank Jodi Ackerman
Published: March 2021

Approach could provide boost in advancing spintronics at the nanoscale level.
Quantification of pitting corrosion from thermography using deep neural networks
Authors: Liu Shuo , Liu Huan , Liu Zheng
Published: March 2021

Pipelines serve as the major infrastructure for transmission and distribution in oil and gas and water industries. The health condition of a metallic pipe is determined mainly by the extent to which it is corroded. Thus, the quantification of pitting corrosion in terms of metal loss is required for the understanding of pipe condition. There are different ways to quantify corrosion pit geometry. Direct methods measure the pit depth of pipe samples, which are sand/grit blasted to remove corrosion products, and are often adopted in the laboratory. Indirect methods employ non-destructive inspection techniques to detect and quantify the corrosion without sandblasting, which is preferred for a field test. In this study, pulsed thermography is considered for the quantification of pitting corrosion in a metallic pipe. Thermography testing can generate a sequence of infrared images, which reflect the diffusion process of heat through the pipe wall. This paper proposes a new deep neural network-based approach to quantify the pitting corrosion damages from the acquired thermography images. Through extensive experimental tests, the quantified results demonstrate a reasonably good linear relationship with metal loss of pipe, as the quantification accuracy was better than 98%.
Reconfigurable thin-film transistors based on a parallel array of Si-nanowires
Authors: Jeon Dae-Young , Park So Jeong , Pregl Sebastian , Mikolajick Thomas , Weber Walter M.
Published: March 2021

The implementation of advanced electronic devices in the fourth industrial revolution era can be achieved with bottom-up grown silicon nanowire (Si-NW) based transistors. Here, we have fabricated reconfigurable Schottky-barrier (SB) thin-film transistors (TFTs) consisting of a parallel array of bottom-up grown single-crystalline Si-NWs and investigated in detail their device length dependent electrical performance and transport mechanism with current–voltage transport-map, key electrical parameters, and numerical simulation. In particular, the effective extension length (Lext_eff) limited significantly the overall conduction behavior of reconfigurable Si-NW SB-TFTs, such as ambipolarity, mobility, threshold voltage, and series resistance. This work provides important information for a better understanding of the physical operation of reconfigurable transistors with SB contacts and further optimization of their performance for implementing practical applications.
Transition to synchronization in heterogeneous inhibitory neural networks with structured synapses
Authors: Urdapilleta Eugenio
Published: March 2021

Inhibitory neurons form an extensive network involved in the development of different rhythms in the cerebral cortex. A transition from an incoherent state, where all inhibitory neurons fire unrelated to each other, to a synchronized or locked state, where all or most neurons define a tight firing pattern, is maybe the most salient process to analyze when considering neuronal rhythms. In this work, we analyzed whether different patterns of effective synaptic connectivity may support a first-order-like transition in this path to synchronization. Such an “explosive” phenomenon may be relevant in neural processes, as normal cognitive processing in different tasks and some neurological disorders manifest an increased power in many neuronal rhythms, supported by an extended concerted spiking activity and an abrupt change to this state. Furthermore, we built an adaptive mechanism that supports the generation of this kind of network, which rapidly creates the underlying structure based on the ongoing firing statistics.
A study on factors influencing CO2 adsorption by coal
Authors: Wang Xuefeng , Deng Cunbao , Qiao Ling , Chu Ge , Jing Rui , Kang Yanlei
Published: March 2021

The effects of moisture, pH value, and coal rank on adsorption of CO2 by coal were studied using a self-made small sample coal adsorption device. Coal of different ranks was dried, acidified, and alkalized. CO2 gas (16%) was injected into the device at normal temperature and pressure. The results showed that the moisture and pH value in the environment and the coal rank had an influence on the CO2 adsorption capacity of coal. The saturation adsorption capacity of CO2 of acid-treated coal and alkaline-treated coal increased by 3.342%–4.255% and 0.808%–2.22%, respectively, compared to dry coal. The saturated adsorption capacity of CO2 of untreated coal was reduced by 2.176%–2.521% compared to the dry sample. According to experimental data, the existence of moisture inhibited the adsorption of CO2 by coal, and the increase or decrease in the pH value promotes the adsorption of CO2 by coal. The decrease in the pH value had the greatest influence on the adsorption of CO2 by coal. The higher coal rank resulted in the increased saturated adsorption capacity of CO2.
Drosophila
Fezf functions as a transcriptional repressor to direct layer-specific synaptic connectivity in the fly visual system
Authors: Santiago Ivan J. , Zhang Dawei , Saras Arunesh , Pontillo Nicholas , Xu Chundi , Chen Xiaoting , Weirauch Matthew T. , Mistry Meeta , Ginty David D. , Pecot Matthew Y. , Peng Jing
Published: March 2021

Significance

Functionally relevant neuronal connections are often organized within discrete layers of neuropil to ensure proper connectivity and information processing. While layer-specific assembly of neuronal connectivity is a dynamic process involving stepwise interactions between different neuron types, the mechanisms underlying this critical developmental process are not well understood. Here, we investigate the role of the transcription factor dFezf in layer selection within the
Drosophila
visual system, which is important for synaptic specificity. Our findings show that dFezf functions as a transcriptional repressor governing the precise temporal expression pattern of downstream genes, including other transcription factors required for proper connectivity. Layer-specific assembly of neuronal connectivity in the fly visual system is thus orchestrated by precise, temporally controlled transcriptional cascades.
Eating we live by
Authors: Yang Kun , Guo Jinqiu , Wen Xu
Published: March 2021

eating plays a pivotal role in Chinese culture as echoed in the saying mín yǐ shí wéi tiān
“Eating is everything for people”. In Chinese, a multitude of expressions related to eating are metaphorically used to talk about aspects of
living and we call them “eating metaphors”. eating metaphors are largely motivated by the primary metaphor
living is eating. This paper focuses on three prominent elements of the eating activity (i.e., living as “a process of
eating”, living as “a kind of food” and living as “a tool for eating or cooking”) which give rise to the following metaphors: social
activity is a process of eating, mental activity is a process of eating, social activity is food, mental activity is taste of food, humans
are food, social activity is a tool for eating/cooking, and mental activity is attribute of tools for eating/cooking. The mappings
from the domain of eating to the domain of living are largely based on their similarities on the generic level. Using the
apparatus of clics
3, we find that the concept of eat in Chinese can colexify drink, intake, chew, learn,
consider, understand, invade, possess, deprive, absorb, coitus, depend, and consume, and all cases of colexification can be
accounted for by the living is eating metaphor. It is the experiential similarities between the living activity and the
eating activity that make the structural mappings between two domains possible and that people can use one domain of experience to
talk about another.
Visible emission spectra of thermographic phosphors under x-ray excitation
Authors: Westphal Eric R , Brown Alex D , Quintana Enrico C , Kastengren Alan L , Son Steven F , Meyer Terrence R , Hoffmeister Kathryn N G
Published: March 2021

Thermographic phosphors have been employed for temperature sensing in challenging environments, such as on surfaces or within solid samples exposed to dynamic heating, because of the high temporal and spatial resolution that can be achieved using this approach. Typically, UV light sources are employed to induce temperature-sensitive spectral responses from the phosphors. However, it would be beneficial to explore x-rays as an alternate excitation source to facilitate simultaneous x-ray imaging of material deformation and temperature of heated samples and to reduce UV absorption within solid samples being investigated. The phosphors BaMgAl10O17:Eu (BAM), Y2SiO5:Ce, YAG:Dy, La2O2S:Eu, ZnGa2O4:Mn, Mg3F2GeO4:Mn, Gd2O2S:Tb, and ZnO were excited in this study using incident synchrotron x-ray radiation. These materials were chosen to include conventional thermographic phosphors as well as x-ray scintillators (with crossover between these two categories). X-ray-induced thermographic behavior was explored through the measurement of visible spectral response with varying temperature. The incident x-rays were observed to excite the same electronic energy level transitions in these phosphors as UV excitation. Similar shifts in the spectral response of BAM, Y2SiO5:Ce, YAG:Dy, La2O2S:Eu, ZnGa2O4:Mn, Mg3F2GeO4:Mn, and Gd2O2S:Tb were observed when compared to their response to UV excitation found in literature. Some phosphors were observed to thermally quench in the temperature ranges tested here, while the response from others did not rise above background noise levels. This may be attributed to the increased probability of non-radiative energy release from these phosphors due to the high energy of the incident x-rays. These results indicate that x-rays can serve as a viable excitation source for phosphor thermometry.
Characterization of a flux-driven Josephson parametric amplifier with near quantum-limited added noise for axion search experiments
Authors: Kutlu Çağlar , van Loo Arjan F , Uchaikin Sergey V , Matlashov Andrei N , Lee Doyu , Oh Seonjeong , Kim Jinsu , Chung Woohyun , Nakamura Yasunobu , Semertzidis Yannis K
Published: March 2021

The experimental non-observation of charge-parity (CP) symmetry violation in quantum chromodynamics is commonly referred to as the strong CP problem. The axion, a hypothetical elementary pseudoscalar, is expected to solve the strong CP problem and is also a promising candidate for dark matter. The most sensitive axion search experiments operate at millikelvin temperatures and hence rely on instrumentation that carries signals from a system at cryogenic temperatures to room temperature instrumentation. One of the biggest limiting factors affecting the parameter scanning speed of these detectors is the noise added by the components in the signal detection chain. Since the first amplifier in the chain limits the minimum noise, low-noise amplification is of paramount importance. This paper reports on the operation of a flux-driven Josephson parametric amplifier (JPA) operating at around 2.3 GHz with added noise approaching the quantum limit. The JPA was employed as a first stage amplifier in an experimental setting similar to the ones used in haloscope axion detectors. By operating the JPA at a gain of 19 dB and cascading it with two cryogenic amplifiers operating at 4 K, noise temperatures as low as 120 mK were achieved for the whole signal detection chain.
Resonant effect of the ultrarelativistic electron–positron pair production by gamma quanta in the field of a nucleus and a pulsed light wave
Authors: Roshchupkin Sergei P , Larin Nikita R , Dubov Victor V
Published: March 2021

Resonant electron–positron pair production by a high-energy gamma quantum

ω
i

≳

10

2

 
GeV

in the field of a nucleus and a quasi-monochromatic laser wave with the intensities

I
≲

10

16

–

10

17

 

W

c
m

−
2

was theoretically studied. Under the resonant condition, an intermediate virtual electron (positron) in the laser field becomes a real particle. Due to this fact, the initial process of the second order in the fine structure constant of a laser field effectively reduces into the two successive processes of the first order: the laser-stimulated Breit–Wheeler process and the laser-assisted process of an intermediate electron (positron) scattering by a nucleus. It is shown that there is a threshold energy for the initial gamma quantum, which significantly depends on the number of absorbed wave photons. At the resonance, the electron–positron pair energies are determined by the outgoing angle between the momenta of the initial gamma quantum and the positron (for the channel A) or the electron (for the channel B). The differential cross-sections for the first few resonances with simultaneous registration of the energy and the outgoing angle of the positron or the electron were obtained. For the initial gamma quantum energy

ω
i

=
125

G
e
V

the resonant electron–positron pair energies for the case of the first three resonances can be measured with a very high magnitude of the differential cross-section: from ∼1013 for the first resonance to ∼108 (in the units of

α

Z
2

r
e
2

) for the third resonance.
Preparation of Nano-Porous Silver by Electroless Plating
Authors: Ban Bo , Li Mingyu , Zeng Qingxuan
Published: March 2021

A preparation method of nanoporous silver was introduced. First, polystyrene (PS) was pretreated. Then silver was deposited on the surface of PS. And finally, PS was removed to obtain porous silver by extraction. The effects of different reaction conditions on the reaction rate and silver deposits were studied. The reaction conditions include silver nitrate concentration, sodium hydroxide concentration, glucose concentration and temperature. The best reaction condition is 0.074 mol·L−1 AgNO3, 0.22 mol·L−1 glucose, 0.05mol·L−1 NaOH and the reaction temperature is 20°C.
Experience in Fire Protection Design of Building External Insulation Material System
Authors: Cao Ruji
Published: March 2021

With the development of building energy conservation for many years, the use of thermal insulation materials has been vigorously promoted, which forms a pattern of coexistence of various structural forms. Building energy conservation, as a national development plan, has achieved good results, but it has also exposed many social problems. The most prominent of which is the fire resistance of thermal insulation materials. From the point of view of designers, this paper discusses the structural characteristics of the main parts of the enclosure structure, the unity of thermal insulation performance and fire prevention performance, and the application points of thermal insulation materials.
A Method of Trace Gases Detection Based on Non-resonance Photoacoustic Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhu Zhizhen , Liu Jiaxiang , Fang Yonghua
Published: March 2021

It is significantly important for public health protection and environmental monitoring to complete accurate measurement of concentration information of hazardous gases and greenhouse gases. Based on the thermal effect of gas infrared absorption and the acoustic theory of photoacoustic (PA) cell, non-resonant photoacoustic spectroscopy(PAS) is an effective method to monitor gases. The basic principle of PAS is introduced, and the instrumental structure is addressed. The experiment is taken with ammonia as example and water vapor as interference. The responding coefficient of ammonia is calculated, and the output concentration is corrected with water vapor filter by correction method.
Optimization of Seismic Performance for Spatially Shaped Cable-Stayed Bridges Based on Dynamic Performance
Authors: Feng Yang , Zhang He , Hao Xueli
Published: March 2021

Due to complexity, the use of conventional single-mass point vibration model to estimate the seismic effect of space shaped bridge towers is relatively effective roughly. In this paper, based on the calculation of the stiffness and mass balance of the cable-stayed bridge of the semi-floating system, and based on the analysis of the single-mass vibration pattern, the two-mass points are refined. The analysis model and the simplified calculation formula of the basic cycle are used to carry out targeted analysis and structural optimization of the structural system. The numerical analysis results show that the optimized structure can effectively improve the seismic capacity of the structure. To provide a more accurate calculation method for the seismic estimation of spatially shaped cable-stayed bridges. The results of the study are presented in the long-span semi-floating system cable-stayed bridge. Seismic concept design has been applied.
Failure Analysis of One Main Landing Gear (MLG) Sliding Tube of A320 Aircraft
Authors: Feng Yanpeng , Ma Xiaoming , Tang Haijun
Published: March 2021

Landing gear system is one of the critical systems of an aircraft and is configured along with the aircraft structure because of its substantial influence on the aircraft structural configuration itself. Landing gear and its attachments are one of the principal structural elements and are useful for aircraft during taxiing, take-off and landing. In this research, A MLG sliding tube from one airline operated A320 aircraft, was returned by user, after a crack indication was discovered at one end of the axle arm. The part had completed about 25,000 cycles since new and 8,000 cycles since overhaul. The mode of crack propagation was intergranular, the crack surface was heavily corroded. A region on the outer diameter encompassing the crack had been blended prior to the receipt. No specific initiation site could be found, it was suspected based on the shape of the crack that initiation occurred from the outer diameter. Deformation was observed on the unblended inner diameter, suggesting that this location suffered a significant impact which imparted residual stress into the component. The Barkhausen noise inspection results support this.
Precision modeling of the IBA Universal Nozzle double scattering mode at the University Proton Therapy Dresden for Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Lutz B. , Eulitz J. , Haneke-Swanson R. , Enghardt W. , Lühr A.
Published: March 2021

Monte Carlo (MC) simulations are indispensable for many research and advanced clinical questions in proton therapy (PT). However, the necessary site-specific modeling of a double scattering (DS) PT system is extensive and challenging and requires a clear strategy. This work describes a comprehensive method for precise and accurate modeling of a DS nozzle that minimizes additional measurement effort.
A detailed model of the IBA universal nozzle is created within the TOPAS simulation framework. This model is subsequently fine-tuned using a step by step procedure to match the same dose profiles used for the commissioning of the treatment planning system. In the proposed bottom-up approach, the geometry of beam-shaping elements is first adjusted to measured quantities and then the beam and model properties are optimized using iterative methods. The resulting dose distributions are validated with a set of independent measurement data to estimate the achieved quality. The resulting simulated dose distributions agree well with the data and show residual range differences of maximum 0.6 mm. The shape of the SOBP plateau regions is accurately reproduced with a spread of the residuals below 1% (i.e., near to the statistical limit) over a large part of the machine settings. The simulated lateral dose profiles, although not directly included in the optimization, match the shape of the validation data better than 0.14 mm. The minimal measurement effort and high-precision proton field modeling make this method attractive, in particular, for retrospective beam modeling needed in clinical outcome or relative biological effectiveness studies after DS treatment.
The rise of electric vehicles—2020 status and future expectations
Authors: Muratori Matteo , Alexander Marcus , Arent Doug , Bazilian Morgan , Cazzola Pierpaolo , Dede Ercan M , Farrell John , Gearhart Chris , Greene David , Jenn Alan , Keyser Matthew , Lipman Timothy , Narumanchi Sreekant , Pesaran Ahmad , Sioshansi Ramteen , Suomalainen Emilia , Tal Gil , Walkowicz Kevin , Ward Jacob
Published: March 2021

Electric vehicles (EVs) are experiencing a rise in popularity over the past few years as the technology has matured and costs have declined, and support for clean transportation has promoted awareness, increased charging opportunities, and facilitated EV adoption. Suitably, a vast body of literature has been produced exploring various facets of EVs and their role in transportation and energy systems. This paper provides a timely and comprehensive review of scientific studies looking at various aspects of EVs, including: (a) an overview of the status of the light-duty-EV market and current projections for future adoption; (b) insights on market opportunities beyond light-duty EVs; (c) a review of cost and performance evolution for batteries, power electronics, and electric machines that are key components of EV success; (d) charging-infrastructure status with a focus on modeling and studies that are used to project charging-infrastructure requirements and the economics of public charging; (e) an overview of the impact of EV charging on power systems at multiple scales, ranging from bulk power systems to distribution networks; (f) insights into life-cycle cost and emissions studies focusing on EVs; and (g) future expectations and synergies between EVs and other emerging trends and technologies. The goal of this paper is to provide readers with a snapshot of the current state of the art and help navigate this vast literature by comparing studies critically and comprehensively and synthesizing general insights. This detailed review paints a positive picture for the future of EVs for on-road transportation, and the authors remain hopeful that remaining technology, regulatory, societal, behavioral, and business-model barriers can be addressed over time to support a transition toward cleaner, more efficient, and affordable transportation solutions for all.
Property and Affairs Aspects of the International Protection of Adults
Authors: van Overdijk Claire
Published: March 2021

The same broad questions of Private International Law arise in the context of the protection of the property of the adult as they do in relation to their person. In other words, in any case with a cross-border element, it will be necessary to consider questions such as which court has jurisdiction over the person, which state’s laws will be applied, and whether orders made in one state will be recognized by the authorities (whether they be administrative or judicial) of a different state. It will also be necessary to consider whether any form of Private Mandate granted by the adult intended to survive (or take effect) upon incapacity will be effective in another state.
Hague 35
Authors: Keene Alex Ruck
Published: March 2021

In many ways, Hague 35 was—and to some extent remains—a treaty ahead of its time. Whilst the cross-border protection of children has been recognized as a social, political and legal problem for well over a generation, the cross-border protection of adults has only slowly been rising up the agenda, notwithstanding the very real problems that are already experienced upon the ground. The framers of the Convention, therefore, had a real opportunity to set in place frameworks that could promote best practice between Contracting States which would, in turn, have the potential to bring about changes to the domestic law of those states. A practical example of the benefits of this can already been seen in relation to Ireland where a significant driver in the passage of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Bill has been the perceived need radically to modernize the treatment of those with impaired capacity in that state so as to be able to ratify the Convention.
Switzerland
Authors: Aebi-Müller Regina , Magliana Melissa , Ward Adrian
Published: March 2021

Switzerland (Swiss Confederation, Confoederatio Helveticae, CH) is a federal state organized on three political levels: the communes, the cantons, and the federal government. Originally established as a confederation, the Swiss federation was formed in 1848 with the adoption of the federal constitution. The division of powers between the federal government and the cantons—individual states with autonomous legislative, executive, and judicial branches and a high degree of independence—is constitutionally defined. Switzerland is not a member of the European Union but is related to it through many bilateral treaties. It has a population of almost 8 million, of which 23% are foreign nationals.
Canada—Nova Scotia
Authors: Keene Alex Ruck , Alison Scott Butler QC
Published: March 2021

Canada is a federation composed of ten provinces, including Nova Scotia (‘NS’), and three territories. The common law applies in Canada, with the exception of the province of Quebec, which uses a civil law system. There is a federal government; as a province, NS also exercises constitutional powers in its own right. Federal legislation includes provisions relating to adults within the scope of this work. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms also guarantees certain political rights to Canadians and civil rights to everyone in Canada, and contains rights that impact upon capacity law.
Canada—Saskatchewan
Authors: Ward Adrian , Ron Kruzeniski
Published: March 2021

Canada is a federation composed of ten provinces, including Saskatchewan, and three territories. The common law applies in Canada, with the exception of the province of Quebec, which uses a civil law system. There is a federal government; as a province, Saskatchewan also exercises constitutional powers in its own right. Federal legislation includes provisions relating to adults within the scope of this work. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms also guarantees certain political rights to Canadians and civil rights to everyone in Canada and contains rights that impact upon capacity law.
Greece
Authors: Claire Van Overdijk , Mousmouti Maria , Meidanis Haris
Published: March 2021

Greece has a civil law system. The Greek Constitution, Article 87(1) provides that justice is administered by courts composed of regular judges who enjoy functional and personal independence. Courts are separated into administrative, civil, and criminal courts and are organized by individual statutes.
Malta
Authors: Frimston Richard , Claire Overdijk , Micallef Annalise
Published: March 2021

Maltese law is best described as a hybrid form of law. Whereas the private law is based on the Napoleonic Code, other areas of law have been shaped on common law models, namely the constitutional and administrative law of the island, as well as legislation in areas of commercial and financial areas.
Norway
Authors: Keene Alex Ruck , Fredwall Katrine Kjærheim
Published: March 2021

Norway is a unitary state.It has a hybrid legal system, but is predominantly civil in nature. There are sixty-six district courts (tingretter) at the lowest level. Above them are six Courts of Appeal (lagmannsretter); the highest appellate court is the High Court of Justice (høyesterett).
Definition of Development 2: Material Change of Use
Authors: Bowes Ashley
Published: March 2021

The term ‘material change of use’ is not defined in the 1990 Act. Its meaning has to be ascertained, therefore, by reference to the many cases in which the courts have had to consider its significance. In Parkes v Secretary of State for the Environment [1978] 1 WLR 1308 (CA), Lord Denning MR said that ‘operations’ comprised activities which resulted in some physical alteration to the land, which had some degree of permanence to the land itself; whereas ‘use’ comprised activities which are done in, alongside, or on the land but which did not interfere with the actual physical characteristics of the land. Accordingly, he held that, for the purposes of serving a discontinuance order under what is now s 102 of the 1990 Act, the sorting, processing, and disposal of scrap materials was a ‘use’ of land.
Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas
Authors: Bowes Ashley
Published: March 2021

PPS5 ‘Planning for the Historic Environment’ introduced a new administrative approach to the historic environment by creating the concept of ‘heritage assets’. The National Planning Policy Framework (‘NPPF’) defines a ‘heritage asset’ as follows: A building, monument, site, place, area or landscape identified as having a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decisions, because of its heritage interest. It includes designated heritage assets and assets identified by the local planning authority (including local listing).
Conservation of Natural Habitats and Protected Species and Biodiversity
Authors: Bowes Ashley
Published: March 2021

Another impact made on domestic planning law by the country’s membership of the European Community has arisen from the need to implement the terms of Council Directive 79/409/ EC on the Conservation of Wild Birds and Council Directive 92/43/EC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora.
Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects
Authors: Bowes Ashley
Published: March 2021

For many years concern has been expressed at the time taken to make decisions about major development projects.
2. Regulation and exclusion
Authors: Gerber David A.
Published: March 2021

The period from the end of the Civil War through the early 1920s is characterized by massive immigration, especially after the end of the depression of the 1890s, hostile reaction to large-scale immigration, and increasing centralized control of immigration by the state. The latter two trends were embedded in growing racial and nationality consciousness and the general trend toward the growth of the state and centralized bureaucracy. The results were efforts to tighten and systematize border controls and entrance procedures, exclusions of growing numbers of immigrants from Asia, beginning with most Chinese immigrants in 1882, and quota laws in the 1920s to severely restrict the entrance of southern, eastern, and central Europeans. The vast numbers of immigrants entering the country during this period of American modernization were central to the United States becoming the leading capitalist economy in the twentieth century.
4. Mass population movements and resettlement, 1820–1924
Authors: Gerber David A.
Published: March 2021

The examination of European immigration is centered on the crisis of peasant agriculture and the collapse of traditional rural society, beginning in western Europe in the eighteenth century and spreading eastward and southward by the late nineteenth century. Similar conditions are observed in Mexico, China, and Japan. Immigration is considered not from the standpoint of nations on the move, but of networks defined by family, kinship, friendship, and community, which give structure to migration and resettlement. International migration was facilitated by technological revolutions in postal and media communications, which spread information about travel and destinations, and transportation, which created safer, faster routinized oceanic passage. Seen from these perspectives, what appears to be the chaotic movement of inchoate masses takes on the form of a process guided by technology and linked personal experiences, while immigrants appear to be pragmatic conservatives guided by familiar relations and a willingness to test the continents in search of better lives.