bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tumor‐associated macrophages promote prostate cancer progression via exosome‐mediated miR‐95 transfer
Authors: Guan Han , Peng Rui , Fang Fang , Mao Likai , Chen Zhijun , Yang Shuai , Dai Changyuan , Wu Hongliang , Wang Chengyong , Feng Ninghan , Xu Bin , Chen Ming
Published: May 2020

Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) are vital constituents in mediating cell‐to‐cell communication within the tumor microenvironment. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the interplay between TAMs and tumor cells that guide cell fate are largely undetermined. Extracellular vesicles, also known as exosomes, which are derived from TAMs, are the components exerting regulatory effects. Thus, understanding the underlying mechanism of “onco‐vesicles” is of crucial importance for prostate cancer (PCa) therapy. In this study, we analyzed micro RNA sequences in exosomes released by THP‐1 and M2 macrophages and found a significant increase in miR‐95 levels in TAM‐derived exosomes, demonstrating the direct uptake of miR‐95 by recipient PCa cells. In vitro and in vivo loss‐of‐function assays suggested that miR‐95 could function as a tumor promoter by directly binding to its downstream target gene, JunB, to promote PCa cell proliferation, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. The clinical data analyses further revealed that higher miR‐95 expression results in worse clinicopathological features. Collectively, our results demonstrated that TAM‐mediated PCa progression is partially attributed to the aberrant expression of miR‐95 in TAM‐derived exosomes, and the miR‐95/JunB axis provides the groundwork for research on TAMs to further develop more‐personalized therapeutic approaches for patients with PCa.
Ground validation ofTRMM 3B43 V7precipitation estimates over Colombia. Part I: Monthly and seasonal timescales
Authors: Vallejo‐Bernal Sara M. , Urrea Viviana , Bedoya‐Soto Juan M. , Posada Daniela , Olarte Alejandro , Cárdenas‐Posso Yadira , Ruiz‐Murcia Franklyn , Martínez María T. , Petersen Walter A. , Huffman George J. , Poveda Germán
Published: May 2020

In this study, we validate precipitation estimates remotely sensed by the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) at monthly and seasonal timescales, during the period 1998–2015, by calculating and analyzing diverse error metrics between the 3B43 V7 product and in situ measurements from 1,180 rain gauges over Colombia, of which at least 987 are fully independent of TRMM. We explore the existence of spatiotemporal patterns to assess the performance of 3B43 V7 over the five major natural regions of Colombia: Caribbean, Pacific, Andes, Orinoco and Amazon. The results show that 3B43 V7 product is able to capture the phase of the annual cycle of monthly mean precipitation, but the performance is not good for the amplitude, in particular over the Andes and Pacific regions owing to complex climatic and topographic conditions. In general, 3B43 V7 exhibits good performance in the low‐lying and plain Amazon, Orinoco and Caribbean regions. Over the Andes region, characterized by complex topography, overestimation errors are identified [root mean squared error (RMSE) ≥83.59 mm·month−1and relative bias (BIAS) ≥4.69%], whereas the extremely wet rainfall regime of the Pacific region is largely underestimated (RMSE ≥253.52 mm ·month−1and BIAS ≤−11.75%). These errors are greater during the wet seasons when the metrics reach worse scores than those reported in similar studies worldwide. Occurrence analyses showed that 3B43 V7 misses very frequent light rainfall events and less frequent but very heavy storms, which contribute to the overall underestimation (overestimation) observed over the Pacific (Andes) region. The error characteristics identified and quantified in this study confirm the well‐documented limitations of remote precipitation sensing and constitute a warning about major challenges that complex climatic and physiographic features can impose on satellite rainfall missions.
Influence of El Niño‐Southern Oscillation on baroclinic instability and storm tracks in the Southern Hemisphere
Authors: Machado Jeferson Prietsch , Justino Flávio , Souza Caio Demétrio
Published: May 2020

Earth's weather and climate are strongly influenced by synoptic scale systems such as extratropical cyclones. From this point of view, investigating the mechanisms associated with cyclogenesis, such as baroclinic instability (BI), which are defined by the thermal gradient and wind shear, are extremely important. However, atmospheric teleconnection patterns such as the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon may affect BI in the preferred region of extratropical cyclones, known as the storm track (ST) region. Therefore, the present study shows the impact of ENSO on BI and STs in the Southern Hemisphere. BI is determined by means of the Eady growth rate method, while the STs are calculated from the kinetic energy and by means of the meridional heat transport. In general, the results show that STs calculated from the BI and the kinetic energy show seasonal variability during ENSO events. This results in Southern Hemisphere extratropical cyclones being more intense with trajectories towards lower (higher) latitudes during El Niño (La Niña) summers. In contrast, little difference is seen in El Niño and La Niña winters. For the calculation of the meridional heat transport at 500 hPa, the Climate Forecast System Reanalysis produced weaker transport relative to ERA‐Interim and previous studies.
Backside wear of tibial polyethylene components is affected by gait pattern: A knee simulator study using rare earth tracer technology
Authors: Ngai Valentina , Kunze Joachim , Cip Johannes , Laurent Michel P. , Jacobs Joshua J. , Wimmer Markus A.
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of two in‐vivo–determined gait patterns, one with low and one with high anteroposterior (AP) motion, on total and backside polyethylene insert wear in comparison with the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standard 14243‐3. In order to differentiate and accurately quantify topside and backside wear, a novel technique was employed where different lanthanide tracers were incorporated into the polyethylene during manufacture. Wear particle analysis was conducted following established protocols. For all tested liners and motion protocols, the chemically calculated wear rates correlated closely with gravimetrically determined wear. Both in vivo motion groups displayed higher wear rates than the ISO group following the order of the AP motion amplitudes. Backside wear for ISO constituted 2.76% ± 0.90% (mean ± SE) of the total wear, increasing significantly to 15.8% ± 3.2% for the low AP and further increasing to 19.3% ± 0.95% for the high AP motion protocol. The mean wear particle sizes were under 200 nm for all three motion patterns, being largest for the protocol with high AP motion. Particle release from the low and high AP gait patterns was 1.9 to 2.8 times that from the ISO protocol. Testing for the proportion of backside wear across various activities of daily living should be an important consideration in evaluating knee prostheses wear.
Stability of a compounded oral liquid formulation of clopidogrel for infants
Authors: Ellis David P. , Rozek Tomas , Milne Robert W.
Published: May 2020

Background

Clopidogrel is recommended to prevent thrombotic complications in at‐risk infants. No commercial liquid formulation is currently available. Published compounded liquid formulations have not accounted for chiral instability at recommended storage conditions, and studied strengths are problematic in measuring accurate doses for infants.

Aim

This study examined the stability of a low strength (1 mg/mL) oral liquid formulation of clopidogrel using a chiral chromatographic method to separate active S‐clopidogrel from its predominant degradation product R‐clopidogrel, as well as its acid products.

Methods

Clopidogrel mixtures (1 mg/mL) prepared using Plavix tablets (Sanofi‐Aventis, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia) in 1 : 1 Ora‐Plus : Ora‐Sweet (Perrigo, Minneapolis, MN, USA) were stored at room temperature (25°C) and under refrigeration (4°C). Samples stored were assayed periodically for S‐clopidogrel using chiral liquid chromatography to a minimum of 55 days. The percentage of S‐clopidogrel remaining (at least 90% of nominal content) was used to estimate shelf life. Physical and microbiological stability was also assessed.

Results

Estimated shelf lives at room temperature and under refrigeration were 12 and 46 days, respectively. When removed from refrigeration, kept at 25°C for 3 days and then returned to the refrigerator, the shelf life was reduced to 41 days. Physical stability was maintained during these periods, and there was no evidence of microbiological contamination.

Conclusion

It is recommended that clopidogrel 1 mg/mL in an oral preparation containing Ora‐Plus : Ora‐Sweet be stored in the refrigerator (4°C) and discarded 6 weeks after compounding. If removed from the refrigerator to room temperature (25°C) for 3 days, so long as the suspension is returned to the refrigerator, it could be used at a reduced shelf life of 1 month.
A Simple and Efficient Method for Synthesis of sn‐Glycero‐Phosphoethanolamine
Authors: B. Gowda Siddabasave Gowda , Fuda Hirotoshi , Yamamoto Yusuke , Chiba Hitoshi , Hui Shu‐Ping
Published: May 2020

An efficient three‐step strategy for the convenient synthesis of Sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine (GroPEtn) from a commercially available 1,2‐dipalmitoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine (DPPE) is reported. Direct hydrolysis of DPPE produces a complex inseparable mixture, hence a protection and deprotection strategy is employed to prepare GroPEtn. The primary amine of DPPE is protected with a highly stable acid‐labile trityl group, followed by strong base hydrolysis of N‐trityl‐DPPE gives N‐trityl‐GroPEtn. Further a mild, rapid, and efficient deprotection method is established using trifluoroacetic acid to remove N‐trityl moiety, affords GroPEtn as a single product. This is the first semisynthetic approach and efficient method to produce GroPEtn with a total yield of 66% in three steps. GroPEtn did not show any cytotoxicity against human kidney (HK‐2) cells and reporter gene assay for activation of Keap1‐Nrf2‐mediated antioxidant defense mechanism showed no significant effects.
Blocking ACAT‐1 Activity for Tumor Therapy with Fluorescent Hyperstar Polymer‐Encapsulated Avasimible
Authors: Bai Ting , Zhu Bobo , Shao Dongyan , Lian Ziyang , Liu Pei , Shi Junling , Kong Jie
Published: May 2020

Targeting the distinct cholesterol metabolism of tumor cells is proposed as a novel way to treat tumors. Blocking acyl‐CoA cholesterol acyltransferase‐1 (ACAT‐1) by the inhibitor avasimible (Ava), which elevates intracellular free cholesterol levels, is shown to effectively induce apoptosis. However, Ava faces disadvantages of poor water solubility, a short half‐life, and no capability for fluorescence detection, which have greatly limited its application. Herein, a fluorescent hyperstar polymer (FHSP) is developed to encapsulate Ava to improve its ability to inhibit HeLa cells and K562 cells. The results of this study show that the obtained Ava–FHSP micelles possess a high drug loading capacity of 22.7% and bright green fluorescence. Ava and Ava–FHSP are cytotoxic to both HeLa and K562 cells and cause reductions in cell size, nuclear lysis, and chromatin condensation and hindered proliferation of both cell types by causing S phase cell cycle arrest. Further mechanistic analysis indicates that Ava–FHSP reduces the protein and messenger RNA expression of ACAT‐1 and significantly increases intracellular free cholesterol levels, which can increase endoplasmic reticulum stress and finally cause cell apoptosis. All these results suggest that this fluorescent hyperstar polymer represents a potential therapeutic tumor strategy by changing the cholesterol metabolism of tumor cells.
Fractional traveling wave solutions of the (2 + 1)‐dimensional fractional complex Ginzburg–Landau equation via two methods
Authors: Lu Peng‐Hong , Wang Ben‐Hai , Dai Chao‐Qing
Published: May 2020

A (2 + 1)‐dimensional fractional complex Ginzburg–Landau equation is solved via fractional Riccati method and fractional bifunction method, and exact traveling wave solutions including soliton solution and combined soliton solutions are constructed based on Mittag–Leffler function. A series of fractional orders is used to demonstrate the graphical representation and physical interpretation of the resulting solutions. The role of the fractional order is revealed.
Accurate intravoxel incoherent motion parameter estimation using Bayesian fitting and reduced number of low b‐values
Authors: Ye Chen , Xu Daoyun , Qin Yongbin , Wang Lihui , Wang Rongpin , Li Wuchao , Kuai Zixiang , Zhu Yuemin
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) magnetic resonance imaging is a potential noninvasive technique for the diagnosis of brain tumors. However, perfusion‐related parameter mapping is a persistent problem. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the IVIM parameter mapping of brain tumors using Bayesian fitting and low b‐values.

Methods

Bayesian shrinkage prior (BSP) fitting method and different low b‐value distributions were used to estimate IVIM parameters (diffusion D, pseudo‐diffusion D*, and perfusion fraction F). The results were compared to those obtained by least squares (LSQ) on both simulated and in vivo brain data. Relative error (RE) and reproducibility were used to evaluate the results. The differences of IVIM parameters between brain tumor and normal regions were compared and used to assess the performance of Bayesian fitting in the IVIM application of brain tumor.

Results

In tumor regions, the value of D* tended to be decreased when the number of low b‐values was insufficient, especially with LSQ. BSP required less low b‐values than LSQ for the correct estimation of perfusion parameters of brain tumors. The IVIM parameter maps of brain tumors yielded by BSP had smaller variability, lower RE, and higher reproducibility with respect to those obtained by LSQ. Obvious differences were observed between tumor and normal regions in parameters D (P < 0.05) and F (P < 0.001), especially F. BSP generated fewer outliers than LSQ, and distinguished better tumors from normal regions in parameter F.

Conclusions

Intravoxel incoherent motion parameters clearly allow brain tumors to be differentiated from normal regions. Bayesian fitting yields robust IVIM parameter mapping with fewer outliers and requires less low b‐values than LSQ for the parameter estimation.
Modeling hydraulic fracture propagation in permeable media with an embedded strong discontinuity approach
Authors: Liu Fushen
Published: May 2020

The paper presents an embedded strong discontinuity approach to simulate single hydraulic fracture propagation in the poroelastic medium under plane‐strain conditions. The method enriches the strain field with the discontinuous deformation mode and allows the fracture to be modeled inside elements. The Mode‐I fracture initiation and propagation are described by the trilinear cohesive law, which is implemented by the penalty method. The enhanced permeability inside the fractured elements is dependent on the fracture aperture. Hydraulic fracture propagation is driven by the high pressure gradient near the fracture. Fluid transfer between the fracture and bulk rock is automatically captured within the poroelastic framework. The numerical framework is verified by the comparisons with the asymptotic analytical solutions for single hydraulic fracture propagation.
Bubbles and collapses: Fire phenomena of flame‐retarded flexible polyurethane foams
Authors: Günther Martin , Levchik Sergei V. , Schartel Bernhard
Published: May 2020

Flexible polyurethane foams (FPUF) are easy to ignite and exhibit rapid flame spread. In this paper, the fire phenomena of two standard foam formulations containing tris(1,3‐dichloro‐2‐propyl) phosphate (FR‐2) and a halogen‐freepoly (ethyl ethylene phosphate) (PNX), respectively, as flame retardants are compared. A multi‐methodological approach is proposed which combines standard fire tests as well as new investigatory approaches. The thermophysical properties of the foams were determined by thermogravimetric analysis (TG), reaction to small flames was studied by means of the limiting oxygen index (LOI) and UL 94 HBF test, and the burning behavior was investigated with the cone calorimeter. Further, temperature development in burning cone calorimeter samples was monitored using thermocouples, and rheological measurements were performed on pyrolyzed material, delivering insight into the dripping behavior of the foams. This paper gives comprehensive insight into the fire phenomena of flame‐retarded FPUFs that are driven by the two‐step decomposition behavior of the foams. LOI and UL 94 HBF tests showed a reduced flammability and reduced tendency to drip for the flame‐retarded foams. TG and cone calorimeter measurements revealed that the two‐step decomposition behavior causes two stages during combustion, namely structural collapse and pool fire. The flame‐retardant mode of action was identified to take place primarily during the foam collapse and be based mainly on flame inhibition. However, some condensed‐phase action was been measured, leading to significantly increased melt viscosity and improved dripping behavior for foams containing PNX.
‘MN‐Clearwater’, the first food‐grade intermediate wheatgrass (Kernza perennial grain) cultivar
Authors: Bajgain Prabin , Zhang Xiaofei , Jungers Jacob M. , DeHaan Lee R. , Heim Brett , Sheaffer Craig C. , Wyse Donald L. , Anderson James A.
Published: May 2020

‘MN‐Clearwater’ (Reg. no. CV‐287, PI 692651) is the world's first commercial food‐grade intermediate wheatgrass [IWG;Thinopyrum intermedium(Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey subsp.intermedium] grain cultivar. It was developed as a synthetic population at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, and released in August 2019. Intermediate wheatgrass is a perennial grain crop currently undergoing domestication and is known for its extensive long root system that can recycle soil nutrients and sequester carbon. MN‐Clearwater (experimental designation MN1504) was created by intercrossing seven parents selected for high grain yield, reduced shattering, high free grain threshing, reduced lodging, and uniform maturity. MN‐Clearwater was advanced for two generations before being evaluated in statewide yield trials, after which the fourth seed generation was released as the cultivar in a limited public release. In variety trials across Minnesota, MN‐Clearwater produced 696 kg ha−1(621 lb ac−1) of grain with minimal lodging and negligible disease levels. The first 2 yr produce the highest grain yields under Minnesota conditions, and third‐year yields are significantly lower (average reduction of 77%) than the first 2 yr. As the first IWG cultivar released for sale under the Kernza trade name (The Land Institute), we expect this population to be a cornerstone resource for the IWG research community as well as for interested growers, food processors, and commercial partners. MN‐Clearwater grain is sold as Kernza perennial grain.
Registration of ‘Coho’ light red kidney bean
Authors: Kelly James D. , Varner Gregory V. , Chilvers Martin I. , Cichy Karen A. , Wright Evan M.
Published: May 2020

‘Coho’ light red kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) (Reg. no. CV‐330, PI 692133), developed by Michigan State University AgBioResearch, was released in 2019 as an upright, full‐season cultivar that possesses acceptable canning quality and partial resistance to common bacterial blight and root rots. Coho was developed using the pedigree breeding method to the F4 generation followed by pure line selection for disease, agronomic, and quality traits. In 4 yr of field trials, Coho yielded 3,644 kg ha−1, flowered in 39 d, and matured in 99 d on average. Plants averaged 50 cm in height, with lodging resistance score of 1.1 and seed weight of 53.8 g 100 seed−1. Coho is resistant to race 73 of anthracnose and produced a top necrosis reaction to strain NL 3 of Bean common mosaic necrosis virus. Coho produces seed that meets industry standards for dry seed packaging and was rated satisfactory in overall canned bean quality in the light red kidney bean seed class.
A new airway spiral stent designed to maintain airway architecture with an atraumatic removal after full epithelization—Research of feasibility and viability in canine patients with tracheomalacia
Authors: Serrano‐Casorran Carolina , Lopez‐Minguez Sandra , Rodriguez‐Zapater Sergio , Bonastre Cristina , Guirola Jose A. , De Gregorio Miguel A.
Published: May 2020

Objective

Surgical management of tracheomalacia is a challenge, with current treatments still presenting numerous complications. In the field of veterinary medicine, this same pathology is present in a significant number of dogs. For this reason, we present an experimental clinical trial performed on canines with tracheobronchomalacia, using a new atraumatic removable tracheal spiral stent (SS). Both implantation procedure and clinical improvement have been analyzed in this study.

Methods

In this study, four small dogs, a mean weight of 4.89 kg and body condition scores IV‐V, were included. SS was implanted by two different surgical approaches. Image and clinical follow‐up have been performed during 90 days. Symptoms were evaluated from 1 to 10 every week.

Results

This study achieved 100% technical and clinical success. Median tracheal diameters were as follows: cervical 10.85 (3.3), inlet 7.75 (2.1), and carina 7.75 (1.9) mm, and length was 77.5 (26) mm. A 12 × 10 × 100‐mm SS was implanted in all cases. Goose honk cough punctuation improved from 8 to 1; also, there were important changes in exercise intolerance, a mean weight loss of 8.76%. The values of modified Karnofsky scale varied from 50 (20) before surgery to 90 (10) after 30 days of surgery. Neither granuloma tissue nor fractures of the prosthesis was observed.

Conclusion

The results in dogs are promising, and a new therapeutic alternative seems to be available for veterinarian field. The similarity of this disease between dogs and newborns suggests that this SS design can also be useful for human trials.
Geographic variation in sexual communication in the cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Gao Ke , Torres‐Vila Luis M , Zalucki Myron P , Li Yiping , Griepink Frans , Heckel David G , Groot Astrid T
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Geographic variation in male response to sex pheromone lures has been studied in the field in a number of moth species. However, only a few studies have investigated geographic variation in female calling and sex pheromone under field conditions. For an effective field implementation of sex pheromone lures, it is essential to know the local sex pheromone blend and local timing of sexual communication. We investigated the level and extent of geographic variation in the sexual communication of the important agricultural pest Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) in three continents.

RESULTS

We found there is no genetic variation in the calling behavior of H. armigera. In the female sex pheromone, we found more between‐population variation than within‐population variation. In male response experiments, we found geographic variation as well. Strikingly, when adding the antagonistic compound Z11‐16:OAc to the pheromone blend of H. armigera, significantly fewer males were caught in Australia and China, but not in Spain. This variation is likely not only due to local environmental conditions, such as photoperiod and temperature, but also to the presence of other closely related species with which communication interference may occur.

Conclusion

Finding geographic variation in both the female sexual signal and the male response in this pest calls for region‐specific pheromone lures. Our study shows that the analysis of geographic variation in moth female sex pheromones as well as male responses is important for effectively monitoring pest species that occur around the globe. © 2020 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Bismuth Doping of CdTe: The Effect of Spin–Orbit Coupling
Authors: Ríos-González Juan Alberto , Menéndez-Proupin Eduardo , Peña Juan Luis
Published: May 2020

Using the Heyd, Scuseria, and Ernzerhof (HSE) hybrid functional, with the range‐separation parameter modified to match the CdTe bandgap, the electronic structure and thermodynamic properties of bismuth‐doped CdTe are calculated. The energy levels associated with bismuth in CdTe bandgap can be obtained only when the spin–orbit coupling (SOC) is included. Substitutional and interstitial Bi atom positions in CdTe lattice are investigated. Contrary to the outcome of calculations without SOC, these simple defects generate bands inside the CdTe bandgap. These bands can act as intermediate steps in two‐step light absorption processes that lead to increasing the photocurrent in the solar cell.
Molecular‐Beam Epitaxy of 3D Topological Insulator Thin Films and Devices on Si Substrates
Authors: Mussler Gregor
Published: May 2020

Topological insulators (TIs) are currently in the focus of interest due to their intriguing physical properties related to topologically protected surface states. The ability to grow thin films of these complex layered materials and even sophisticated devices is the key to explore their fundamental phenomena, giving insights into modern solid‐state physics. However, complex materials composed of layers only weakly bonded via van der Waals (vdW) forces offer unmatched challenges for the deposition of thin epitaxial films. Herein, it is reported on the growth of (Bi,Sb)2(Te,Se)3 TI films on Si (111) substrates using molecular‐beam epitaxy. Special issues are discussed, such as understanding the peculiar vdW growth mode, observing and annihilating crystal defects, reducing bulk carrier concentration, tuning the Fermi level to the Dirac point, and, finally, fabricating TI/superconductor devices fully in situ.
Preparation of a CubeSat LEO radio wave propagation campaign at Q and W bands
Authors: Cuervo Félix , Martín‐Polegre Arturo , Las‐Heras Fernando , Vanhoenacker‐Janvier Danielle , Flávio Joel , Schmidt Michael
Published: May 2020

Due to the congestion of the spectrum and the need for wider bandwidths, ultrahigh throughput satellites (UHTSs) are moving towards the use of higher frequency bands (Q/V and W bands). These frequencies are however severely impaired by atmospheric phenomena causing attenuation, scintillation and depolarization and compromising the quality of service (QoS). In order to study the Earth‐space link, several experimental campaigns have been performed up to the Q band with geostationary (GEO) satellites. This paper introduces a new propagation experiment that will extend the characterization of the Earth‐space channel up to the W band and low Earth orbits (LEOs).
What do we know about university academics' mental health? A systematic literature review
Authors: Urbina‐Garcia Angel
Published: May 2020

There has been a growing interest in the negative influence that the environment of higher education institutions has on the mental health of academics. The current climate of global education‐competition places extreme expectations on academics. A number of factors influence academics' mental health, such as teaching, supervising, generating research income, among others, and there is evidence to suggest that the university environment is jeopardising academics' physical and psychological health. This study sought to review the international literature with a view to ascertaining what the most commonly used measures are to investigate this topic, including the main stressors and coping strategies reported/used by academics and their lived experiences. A thorough review of the literature was conducted, and 28 studies were identified and critically analysed. The review concludes that there is compelling evidence that the university environment is triggering high levels of stress and burnout and low levels of well‐being for academics. There is extremely limited research on the perceptions and lived experiences of academic staff. It is virtually unknown, what coping strategies academics use to face job demands, and our knowledge about burnout seems to be limited by the use of one particular measure without cultural adaptations. Practical implications and directions for future research are proposed.
An Overview and Future Perspectives of Rechargeable Zinc Batteries
Authors: Shi Yuchuan , Chen Ye , Shi Lei , Wang Ke , Wang Biao , Li Long , Ma Yaming , Li Yuhan , Sun Zehui , Ali Wajid , Ding Shujiang
Published: May 2020

Aqueous rechargeable zinc‐based batteries have sparked a lot of enthusiasm in the energy storage field recently due to their inherent safety, low cost, and environmental friendliness. Although remarkable progress has been made in the exploration of performance so far, there are still many challenges such as low working voltage and dissolution of electrode materials at the material and system level. Herein, the central tenet is to establish a systematic summary for the construction and mechanism of different aqueous zinc‐based batteries. Details for three major zinc‐based battery systems, including alkaline rechargeable Zn‐based batteries (ARZBs), aqueous Zn ion batteries (AZIBs), and dual‐ion hybrid Zn batteries (DHZBs) are given. First, the electrode materials and energy storage mechanism of the three types of zinc‐based batteries are discussed to provide universal guidance for these batteries. Then, the electrode behavior of zinc anodes and strategies to deal with problems such as dendrite and passivation are recommended. Finally, some challenge‐oriented solutions are provided to facilitate the next development of zinc‐based batteries. Combining the characteristics of zinc‐based batteries with good use of concepts and ideas from other disciplines will surely pave the way for its commercialization.
Toward Data‐Assisted Particle‐Fluid Simulations of Heat Transfer in Blast Furnaces
Authors: Lichtenegger Thomas , Pirker Stefan
Published: May 2020

Detailed particle‐fluid simulations of moving bed reactors such as blast furnaces (BFs) are computationally very expensive. The wide range of temporal scales from short‐lived micromechanics to slow, macroscopic transport makes it almost impossible to study e.g., heat transfer over process‐relevant time scales. However, a recently introduced approach that uses high‐fidelity data obtained with the discrete element method (DEM) enables extremely fast data‐assisted simulations. Using this methodology, calculations are conducted, which are efficient enough to study granular motion through a BF slot model subject to heat transfer between the hot blast and the solid phase over many hours. These long durations make it possible to determine the thermal steady state including shape and location of the cohesive zone (CZ). While other approaches either have to predefine its properties or are bound to very small domain sizes, this novel strategy is applied to a large‐scale BF slot model with about 28 m height and 15 m width with hardly any prior knowledge. It constitutes an important step toward virtual experiments on BFs under realistic conditions and will allow researchers to gain new insights, perform variations of operating parameters, and ultimately build an online monitoring system.
The polarization process of ferroelectric materials in the framework of variational inequalities
Authors: Pechstein Astrid S. , Meindlhumer Martin , Humer Alexander
Published: May 2020

We are concerned with the mathematical modeling of the polarization process in ferroelectric media. We assume that this dissipative process is governed by two constitutive functions, which are the free energy function and the dissipation function. The dissipation function, which is closely connected to the dissipated energy, is usually non‐differentiable. Thus, a minimization condition for the overall energy includes the subdifferential of the dissipation function. This condition can also be formulated by way of a variational inequality in the unknown fields strain, dielectric displacement, remanent polarization and remanent strain. We analyze the mathematical well‐posedness of this problem. We provide an existence and uniqueness result for the time‐discrete update equation. Under stronger assumptions, we can prove existence of a solution to the time‐dependent variational inequality. To solve the discretized variational inequality, we use mixed finite elements, where mechanical displacement and dielectric displacement are unknowns, as well as polarization (and, if included in the model, remanent strain). It is then possible to satisfy Gauss' law of zero free charges exactly. We propose to regularize the dissipation function and solve for all unknowns at once in a single Newton iteration. We present numerical examples gained in the open source software package Netgen/NGSolve.
Section XI: Destruction of Property
Authors: Dinstein Yoram , Dahl Arne Willy
Published: May 2020

It is specifically prohibited to destroy, damage or seize enemy private or public property unless such destruction is justified by military necessity under the principles and rules of LOAC.
Section XIII: Search and Rescue
Authors: Dinstein Yoram , Dahl Arne Willy
Published: May 2020

For the purposes of this Manual, “Shipwrecked” means persons, whether military or civilian, who are in peril at sea or in other waters during an armed conflict as a result of misfortune affecting them or the vessel, aircraft, or spacecraft carrying them.
Section XVI: Natural Environment
Authors: Dinstein Yoram , Dahl Arne Willy
Published: May 2020

When planning and conducting military operations during an armed conflict, due regard should be given to the natural environment.
Section XVIII: Extraterritorial Operations Against Non-state Armed Groups
Authors: Dinstein Yoram , Dahl Arne Willy
Published: May 2020

The right of self-defence applies in response to an armed attack by non-State armed groups.
Section V: Undersea Infrastructure, Systems and Devices
Authors: Dinstein Yoram , Dahl Arne Willy
Published: May 2020

With due regard for the rights of other States, coastal States are entitled to install, operate and maintain undersea systems and devices, whether military or civilian in nature, in their territorial sea, continental shelf and EEZ.
Section VIII: Civilians Participating in Unmanned Operations
Authors: Dinstein Yoram , Dahl Arne Willy
Published: May 2020

In the context of armed conflict—whether international or non-international—civilians who conduct attacks using unmanned systems, including RPA and UMS, are directly participating in hostilities.
Importance of Smallholder Farms as a Relevant Strategy to Increase Food Security
Authors: Hazell Peter
Published: May 2020

This chapter enumerates the importance of small farms for food security, pulling together available studies and quantitative evidence on the current status of small farms in terms of their number, share of total farms, share in farmed area, employment share, age, gender, poverty and food insecurity status, importance in marketed surpluses of food staples, income diversification, etc. To the extent possible, trends in these variables are also enumerated, focusing on key questions such as: are small farms getting smaller (not just the average size of all farms); are they are becoming less important in total food supplies, especially marketed surpluses (needed to feed the cities); how successfully do they use high-value agriculture and nonfarm income diversification to offset smaller farm sizes. To the extent possible, differences in patterns between regions and types of countries are identified. Finally, some scenarios for the future are developed.
Channels and Barriers of Cross-Border Online Circulation: Central and Eastern Europe as a Digital Periphery
Authors: Szczepanik Petr
Published: May 2020

This chapter looks beneath the purely quantitative data on cross-border availability by investigating audiovisual industry practices of online distribution from a peripheral, small-market perspective, using the example of export from the Czech Republic. Its key research question is: How have transnational VOD services integrated into the local industry ecosystem and to what extent have they changed the circulation trajectories of Czech films and TV series? First, it places online distribution within the local industry ecosystem and reveals the systemic barriers that discourage producers and distributors from strategically focusing on foreign markets. Second, it identifies the key intermediaries and practices of cross-border online distribution, focusing on the approach of global VOD services to distributing small nation content across borders. The chapter concludes with a typology of cross-border online distribution to distinguish different strategies and tactics employed by key players when approaching foreign markets. Thus, it calls for a more nuanced perspective on the position of “digital peripheries” in cross-border cultural networks and flows.
Behavioural and neurogenomic responses of host workers to social parasite invasion in a social insect
Authors: Cini A. , Branconi R. , Patalano S. , Cervo R. , Sumner S.
Published: May 2020

The strong coevolutionary arms race between social parasites and their hosts has dramatically shaped the life-history traits of both parties. One of the main strategies exhibited by hosts in response to parasitism is reproduction by host workers. We lack a mechanistic understanding of how these defence strategies unfold and, specifically, whether hosts exhibit more subtle strategies to reduce the costs of parasitism from the outset. Here we test the hypothesis that there are both behavioural and neurogenomic signatures of worker responses to parasitism, prior to overt expression in the form of egg-laying; we test this using the social parasite—social host system of the paper waspsPolistes sulcifer-Polistes dominula.We characterized individual workers’ position within the social interaction network of queenright and host colonies immediately after parasite usurpation, weeks before the workers’ reproductive rebellion is evident. Parasitism influenced network centrality measures, with workers in parasitized colonies showing increased connectedness and centrality compared to those in unparasitized ones. Next, we quantified brain gene expression levels for five genes related to physiological and behavioural phenotypes inPolisteswasps. The gene Imaginal disc growth factor (Idgf4), thought to be responsive to changes in the social environment, was significantly down-regulated in workers from parasitized colonies; this may be an indication that parasitized workers are anticipating a shift toward a less worker-like phenotype in preparation for their reproductive rebellion. Our results provide the first evidence of early behavioural and neurogenomic responses of host workers toward the presence of an inquiline social parasite in a social insect.
Prevention and management of COVID-19 among patients with diabetes: an appraisal of the literature
Authors: Katulanda Prasad , Dissanayake Harsha A. , Ranathunga Ishara , Ratnasamy Vithiya , Wijewickrama Piyumi S. A. , Yogendranathan Nilukshana , Gamage Kavinga K. K. , de Silva Nipun L. , Sumanatilleke Manilka , Somasundaram Noel P. , Matthews David R.
Published: May 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has emerged as one of the greatest challenges faced by humankind in the recent past. People with diabetes and related comorbidities are at increased risk of its complications and of COVID-19-related death. Older age, multi-morbidity, hyperglycaemia, cardiac injury and severe inflammatory response are predictors of poor outcome. The complex interplay between COVID-19, diabetes and the effects of related therapies is being explored. Most patients experience a mild illness with COVID-19, while people with diabetes are at increased risk of severe disease. Optimising glycaemic control and adopting measures to prevent disease spread are critical aspects. The management of mild disease is supportive, while very many immunomodulatory and antiviral therapies are being investigated for the treatment of severe disease. Several of these agents have specific considerations for use in people with diabetes. Since mass population lockdowns are considered a key step in controlling disease spread, it follows that, in addition to the direct vulnerability to severe COVID-19, people with diabetes can be affected by limited access to healthcare, insulin, other medications and blood glucose monitoring equipment. Measures to prevent disease spread at the individual and community level are the key to mitigating the rapidly escalating pandemic, while agents for chemoprophylaxis and vaccines are being explored. People with diabetes should be recognised as a vulnerable group for complicated disease and are at risk during times of disturbed social systems. Strategies are needed to safeguard the health of patients with diabetes during the pandemic. This review summarises the current knowledge and perceived challenges for prevention and management of COVID-19 in people with diabetes.
Aerodynamic-driven topology optimization of compliant airfoils
Authors: Gomes Pedro , Palacios Rafael
Published: May 2020

A strategy for density-based topology optimization of fluid-structure interaction problems is proposed that deals with some shortcomings associated to non stiffness-based design. The goal is to improve the passive aerodynamic shape adaptation of highly compliant airfoils at multiple operating points. A two-step solution process is proposed that decouples global aeroelastic performance goals from the search of a solid-void topology on the structure. In the first step, a reference fully coupled fluid-structure problem is solved without explicitly penalizing non-discreteness in the resulting topology. A regularization step is then performed that solves an inverse design problem, akin to those in compliant mechanism design, which produces a discrete-topology structure with the same response to the fluid loads. Simulations are carried out with the multi-physics suite SU2, which includes Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes modeling of the fluid and hyper-elastic material behavior of the geometrically nonlinear structure. Gradient-based optimization is used with the exterior penalty method and a large-scale quasi-Newton unconstrained optimizer. Coupled aerostructural sensitivities are obtained via an algorithmic differentiation based coupled discrete adjoint solver. Numerical examples on a compliant aerofoil with performance objectives at two Mach numbers are presented.
Industrial life cycle: relevance of national markets in the development of new industries for energy technologies – the case of wind energy
Authors: O’Sullivan Marlene
Published: May 2020

About 20 years ago Klepper (1997) has shown that the life cycle theory, initially introduced for products, can also be applied to the development of industries. The industries that were examined to establish this theory were marked by relatively stable market conditions that are typically driven by innovation. However, research on the transition of the energy system has shown that markets for new energy technologies are driven by political support. As yet an analysis of the industry life cycle of an industry which has developed under politically driven market conditions has not been conducted. Therefore this paper examines the development of the global wind energy industry and the relevance of national markets in a globalized world. The study is founded on a large empirical database. A comparative analysis of various international and national developments was conducted using descriptive statistical methods. The findings show that the global development derives from the sum of individual national developments. It reveals a strong influence of national markets on the development of their respective wind energy industry. Therefore these findings provide relevant insides for the political debate on market support mechanisms in wind energy.
E-vapor aerosols do not compromise bone integrity relative to cigarette smoke after 6-month inhalation in an ApoE–/– mouse model
Authors: Reumann Marie K. , Schaefer Jenny , Titz Bjoern , Aspera-Werz Romina H. , Wong Ee Tsin , Szostak Justyna , Häussling Victor , Ehnert Sabrina , Leroy Patrice , Tan Wei Teck , Kuczaj Arkadiusz , Audretsch Christof , Springer Fabian , Badke Andreas , Augat Peter , Quentanilla-Fend Leticia , Martella Manuela , Lee K. Monica , Peitsch Manuel C. , Hoeng Julia , Nussler Andreas K.
Published: May 2020

Cigarette smoke (CS) exposure is one of the leading risk factors for human health. Nicotine-containing inhalable products, such as e-cigarettes, can effectively support tobacco harm reduction approaches. However, there are limited comparative data on the effects of the aerosols generated from electronic vapor products (e-vapor) and CS on bone. Here, we report the effects of e-vapor aerosols and CS on bone morphology, structure, and strength in a 6-month inhalation study. Eight-week-old ApoE–/– mice were exposed to aerosols from three different e-vapor formulations—CARRIER (propylene glycol and vegetable glycerol), BASE (CARRIER and nicotine), TEST (BASE and flavor)—to CS from 3R4F reference cigarettes at matched nicotine concentrations (35 µg/L) or to fresh air (Sham) (N = 10 per group). Tibiae were analyzed for bone morphology by µCT imaging, biomechanics by three-point bending, and by histological analysis. CS inhalation caused a significant decrease in cortical and total bone volume fraction and bone density relative to e-vapor aerosols. Additionally, CS exposure caused a decrease in ultimate load and stiffness. In contrast, bone structural and biomechanical parameters were not significantly affected by e-vapor aerosol or Sham exposure. At the dissection time point, there was no significant difference in body weight or tibia bone weight or length among the groups. Histological findings revealed microcracks in cortical bone areas among all exposed groups compared to Sham control. In conclusion, because of the bone-preserving effect of e-vapor aerosols relative to CS exposure, e-vapor products could potentially constitute less harmful alternatives to cigarettes in situations in which bone health is of importance.
Moduli spaces of twisted K3 surfaces and cubic fourfolds
Authors: Brakkee Emma
Published: May 2020

Motivated by the relation between (twisted) K3 surfaces and special cubic fourfolds, we construct moduli spaces of polarized twisted K3 surfaces of any fixed degree and order. We do this by mimicking the construction of the moduli space of untwisted polarized K3 surfaces as a quotient of a bounded symmetric domain.
Further inquiry into the interaction between the winter North Pacific storm track and the East Asian trough
Authors: Yang Minghao , Li Chongyin , Tan Yanke , Li Xin , Chen Xiong , Yu Peilong
Published: May 2020

Based on the daily ERA-Interim reanalysis, interactions between the winter North Pacific storm track (WNPST) and the East Asian trough (EAT) on the interannual scale are further explored from the perspective of energy conversion and the simplified quasi-geostrophic potential vorticity equation. There is a prominent out-of-phase relationship between the EAT and WNPST on the interannual scale. It is baroclinic energy conversion rather than barotropic energy conversion that is the main physical process that the EAT affects the WNPST. When the EAT is intensified, the energy conversion from mean available potential energy to eddy available potential energy decreases; further, the energy conversion from eddy available potential energy to eddy kinetic energy is attenuated, which leads directly to remarkable weakening in the strength of the WNPST in its peak area and the region west of the date line. In addition, when the WNPST is enhanced, the WNPST dynamic forcing contributes to lowering the geopotential height near the EAT and thus profits to recover the strength of the EAT, while the thermal forcing of WNPST is opposite. However, their joint effect is still to strengthen the EAT, indicating that the impact of WNPST dynamic forcing on the EAT is stronger than that of thermal forcing. The interaction between the WNPST and EAT may be a way for the WNPST to maintain itself.