bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blue carbon of Mexico, carbon stocks and fluxes: a systematic review
Authors: Herrera-Silveira Jorge A. , Pech-Cardenas Monica A. , Morales-Ojeda Sara M. , Cinco-Castro Siuling , Camacho-Rico Andrea , Caamal Sosa Juan P. , Mendoza-Martinez Juan E. , Pech-Poot Eunice Y. , Montero Jorge , Teutli-Hernandez Claudia
Published: April 2020

Mexico has more than 750,000 ha of mangroves and more than 400,000 ha of seagrasses. However, approximately 200,000 ha of mangroves and an unknown area of seagrass have been lost due to coastal development associated with urban, industrial and tourist purposes. In 2018, the approved reforms to the General Law on Climate Change (LGCC) aligned the Mexican law with the international objectives established in the 2nd Article of the Paris Agreement. This action proves Mexico’s commitment to contributing to the global target of stabilizing the greenhouse gas emissions concentration in the planet. Thus, restoring and conserving mangrove and seagrass habitats could contribute to fulfilling this commitment. Therefore, as a first step in establishing a mitigation and adaptation plan against climate change with respect to conservation and restoration actions of these ecosystems, we evaluated Mexican blue carbon ecosystems through a systematic review of the carbon stock using the standardized method of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). We used the data from 126 eligible studies for both ecosystems (n = 1220). The results indicated that information is missing at the regional level. However, the average above and below ground organic carbon stocks from mangroves in Mexico is 113.6 ± 5.5 (95% CI [99.3–118.4]) Mg Corg ha−1 and 385.1 ± 22 (95% CI [344.5–431.9]) Mg Corg ha−1, respectively. The variability in the Corg stocks for both blue carbon ecosystems in Mexico is related to variations in climate, hydrology and geomorphology observed along the country’s coasts in addition to the size and number of plots evaluated with respect to the spatial cover. The highest values for mangroves were related to humid climate conditions, although in the case of seagrasses, they were related to low levels of hydrodynamic stress. Based on the official extent of mangrove and seagrass area in Mexico, we estimate a total carbon stock of 237.7 Tg Corg from mangroves and 48.1 Tg Corg from seagrasses. However, mangroves and seagrasses are still being lost due to land use change despite Mexican laws meant to incorporate environmental compensation. Such losses are largely due to loopholes in the legal framework that dilute the laws’ effectiveness and thus ability to protect the ecosystem. The estimated emissions from land use change under a conservative approach in mangroves of Mexico were approximately 24 Tg CO2e in the last 20 years. Therefore, the incorporation of blue carbon into the carbon market as a viable source of supplemental finance for mangrove and seagrass protection is an attractive win-win opportunity.
Challenges and Countermeasures to Prevent and Resolve Financial Risks
Authors: Zhu Chen , Fu Zixuan
Published: April 2020

Preventing and resolving financial risks has a bearing on national security, overall development, and people's property security. It is a battle that cannot be lost. 2020 is the most crucial year to win the battle against major risks. As a core component of China's financial system, banking financial institutions bear the main responsibility of preventing and controlling financial risks, and they are also the main force in preventing and defusing financial risks. In the past period of time, banking financial institutions have implemented different strategies for different risks, accurately detonated bombs, and achieved phased goals. The rapid growth of non-performing loans has been contained, but there are still some potential risks that cannot be ignored. Therefore, from the perspective of preventing systemic risks, the task of winning the formidable battle is still very arduous, and it needs to be fully motivated and go all out to resolve the risks.
Multivariate Statistical Methods Used in Population Genetics
Authors: Ibrahim Maman Laouali Adamou , Zango Oumarou , Inoussa Maman Maarouhi , Moussa Soulé , Bakasso Yacoubou
Published: April 2020

Several multivariate statistical methods are used in population genetics but there are very few studies that have revealed the strengths and weaknesses of different methods. Thus, this study aims to reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the different multivariate statistical methods used in population genetics through the world. This synthesis is carried out according to the methodology "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes" (PRISMA). This study shown that various statistical methods or combination of multivariate statistical methods are used in population genetics. It emerges that there is no a priori a better method, so it is necessary to determine the method adapted to both the data collected and the research objective. This study identified the most commonly used multivariate statistical methods in genetics such as: Ordination methods (52.50%) are methods that summarize the information contained in the data matrix by minimizing wastage. This are: principal components analysis (by 32.0% of the articles), principal coordinates analysis (by 7.50% of the articles), discriminant analysis of principal component, factorial correspondence analysis, factorial discriminant analysis, factorial analysis on distance table. Clustering methods (35%) that aim to form groups of individuals that are as similar as possible, including the hierarchical ascending clustering (17.50% of articles), neighbor-joining, and Bayesian clustering model (by 15% of the articles). The analysis of the molecular variance (7.50%) which consists of studying the intra and inter-population variation and the Mantel test (5%) which aims to test the correlation between the matrix of genetic distances and other distance matrices (environmental causes of genetic variability).
Electrochemically Activated Water Catholyte for the Activation of Hydrogen Ions and ATP for Sport’s Shape and Recovery
Authors: Ignatov Ignat , Gencheva Nezabravka , Marinov Todor , Yaneva Iliana , Angelcheva Mariana , Dinkov Georgi , Angushev Ivan
Published: April 2020

The biological processes of a human body occur in liquid medium. The human body contains around 55-60% of water in young people. At birth the percentage is around 75%, and in elderly people it is - 50-55% (by weight). The state of water in the body of athletes is an indicator for their status during physical exertion and recovery. Dehydration is a natural process developing during the period of training and football match, which influences the functioning of the locomotor, nervous, respiratory and cardio-vascular systems.

The research of Ivaylo Yakimov for the period 2014-2019 from Bulgarian football players confirmed the importance of the requirement for the footballers to start physical workload optimally hydrated, in order to slow down and decrease the influence of the negative effects from the inevitable dehydration during a football match. Yakimov is а medical doctor in the football team Ludogorets.

One of the co-authors considers the possibility for hydration and recovery to be done using water with hydrogen index pH over 8.5, and a negative oxidation reduction potential (ORP). The results show that footballers, who drink Catholyte water have better heart indicators compared to the ones they would have if they drink table water. Analyses are conducted of processes in ATP and mitochondria in the cell for faster achieving of maximum sports performance and recovery.
Preoperative Radiosurgery in Management of Brain Metastases
Authors: Topkan Erkan , Kucuk Ahmet , Senyurek Sukran , Sezen Duygu , Durankus Nulifer Kilic , Akdemir Eyub Yasar , Ikiz Esma Didem , Bolukbasi Yasemin , Pehlivan Berrin , Selek Ugur
Published: April 2020

Brain metastases (BMs), the most frequent intracranial tumors, are diagnosed in approximately 30% of all adult patients over the span of planned treatment against a broad spectrum of solid cancers. The prognosis of patients presenting with BM is bleak with an expected median OS of only 4-7 months. However, some particular patients’ groups may enjoy longer survival durations with effective systemic and local therapies. At present, the feasible alternatives for active management of BMs typically include the whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT), surgery, definitive SRS, postoperative SRS, systemic chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and their combination variants. Considering the local treatment, the severe neurotoxic effects of WBRT, and the increased risk for radionecrosis and leptomeningeal dissemination after postoperative SRS and together with the ineligibility of certain patients during the postoperative period prompted the energetic quest of alternative treatment strategies for such patients. In this respect, the novel preoperative SRS (PO-SRS) was proposed to provide at least equivalent local control rates with lesser radionecrosis and leptomeningeal dissemination risk. Respecting the scarcity of related literature, the present review aimed to meticulously detail theplausible rationale and accessible evidence for the novel PO-SRS in the management of patients presenting with BMs.
In Situ Formation of Li3P Layer Enables Fast Li+ Conduction across Li/Solid Polymer Electrolyte Interface
Authors: Wu Nan , Li Yutao , Dolocan Andrei , Li Wei , Xu Henghui , Xu Biyi , Grundish Nicholas S. , Cui Zhiming , Jin Haibo , Goodenough John B.
Published: April 2020

Solid‐state polymer electrolytes provide better flexibility and electrode contact than their ceramic counterparts, making them a worthwhile pursuit for all‐solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries. However, their large Li/solid state electrolyte interfacial resistance, small critical current density, and rapid lithium dendrite growth during cycling still limit their viability. Owing to these restrictions, all‐solid‐state cells with solid polymer electrolytes must be cycled above room‐temperature and with a small current density. These problems can be mitigated with an in situ formed artificial solid electrolyte interphase that rapidly conducts Li+ ions. Herein, a Li3P layer formed in situ at the Li‐metal/solid polymer electrolyte interphase is reported that significantly reduces the electrode/electrolyte interfacial resistance. Additionally, this layer increases the wettability of the solid polymer by the metallic lithium anode, allowing for the critical current density of lithium symmetric cells to be doubled by homogenizing the current density at the interface. All‐solid‐state Li/Li symmetric cells and Li/LiFePO4 cells with the Li3P layer show improved cycling performance with a high current density.
Lachgasbildung durch Mikroalgen
Authors: Sander Johannes
Published: April 2020

Lachgas ist ein hoch klimawirksames Gas, das zu einem erheblichen Teil – und zwar in zunehmendem Maße – durch Mikroorganismen gebildet wird. Neben Prokaryoten und Pilzen spielen vor allem Mikroalgen bei der Lachgasbildung eine entscheidende Rolle. Jetzt konnten die dafür benötigten Enzyme ermittelt werden.
„Planet Gesundheit“ – Wechselwirkungen zwischen Umwelt und Gesundheit interaktiv erleben
Authors: Högermann Christiane
Published: April 2020

Die von der Deutschen Bundesstiftung Umwelt gemeinsam mit dem Umweltbundesamt entwickelte Ausstellung „Planet Gesundheit“ thematisiert die Wechselwirkung zwischen Umweltbelastungen und der menschlichen Gesundheit. Sie ist noch bis Frühjahr 2021 in Osnabrück zu sehen.
Training Novices in Generation and Analysis of High‐Dimensional Human Cell Phospho‐Flow Cytometry Data
Authors: Roe Caroline E. , Hayes Madeline J. , Barone Sierra M. , Irish Jonathan M.
Published: April 2020

This article presents a single experiment designed to introduce a trainee to multiple advanced bench and analysis techniques, including high‐dimensional cytometry, profiling cell signaling networks, functional assays with primary human tissue, and single‐cell analysis with machine learning tools. The trainee is expected to have only minimal laboratory experience and is not required to have any prior training in flow cytometry, immunology, or data science. This article aims to introduce the advanced research areas with a design that is robust enough that novice trainees will succeed, flexible enough to allow some project customization, and fundamental enough that the skills and knowledge gained will provide a template for future experiments. For advanced users, the updated phospho‐flow protocol and the established controls, best practices, and expected outcomes presented here also provide a framework for adapting these tools in new areas with unexplored biology. © 2020 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol: Phospho‐protein stimulation and mass cytometry data collection

Support Protocol: Analysis of signaling mass cytometry data
Blue Native Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (BN‐PAGE) for the Analysis of Protein Oligomers in Plants
Authors: Na Ayutthaya Pratchaya Pramoj , Lundberg Derek , Weigel Detlef , Li Lei
Published: April 2020

Protein‐protein interactions, including oligomerization, are involved in regulation of many cellular processes. Unfortunately, many proteins are expressed at a very low level in vivo, making it challenging to observe oligomerization by size‐exclusion chromatography, also known as gel filtration. In this protocol, we present detailed steps to perform blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (BN‐PAGE), a method to study protein oligomers in plants. The article describes protein sample preparation from transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana and running a BN‐PAGE gel followed by direct western blotting or, alternatively, two‐dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfide–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D SDS‐PAGE). This protocol will be helpful for new researchers conducting related experiments to analyze stable protein interactions including homo‐ or hetero‐oligomerization in plants. © 2020 The Authors.
The current drug discovery landscape for trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis: Challenges and strategies to identify drug targets
Authors: Altamura Fernando , Rajesh Rishi , Catta‐Preta Carolina M. C. , Moretti Nilmar S. , Cestari Igor
Published: April 2020

Human trypanosomiasis and leishmaniasis are vector‐borne neglected tropical diseases caused by infection with the protozoan parasites Trypanosoma spp. and Leishmania spp., respectively. Once restricted to endemic areas, these diseases are now distributed worldwide due to human migration, climate change, and anthropogenic disturbance, causing significant health and economic burden globally. The current chemotherapy used to treat these diseases has limited efficacy, and drug resistance is spreading. Hence, new drugs are urgently needed. Phenotypic compound screenings have prevailed as the leading method to discover new drug candidates against these diseases. However, the publication of the complete genome sequences of multiple strains, advances in the application of CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and in vivo bioluminescence‐based imaging have set the stage for advancing target‐based drug discovery. This review analyses the limitations of the narrow pool of available drugs presently used for treating these diseases. It describes the current drug‐based clinical trials highlighting the most promising leads. Furthermore, the review presents a focused discussion on the most important biological and pharmacological challenges that target‐based drug discovery programs must overcome to advance drug candidates. Finally, it examines the advantages and limitations of modern research tools designed to identify and validate essential genes as drug targets, including genomic editing applications and in vivo imaging.
Effects of nutrient fertilization on root decomposition and carbon accumulation in intensively managed grassland soils
Authors: Fornara Dario A. , Flynn David , Caruso Tancredi
Published: April 2020

Our knowledge of root mass decomposition processes has greatly benefited from studies carried out in natural and semi‐natural ecosystems. It is less known, however, how root mass loss might occur in intensively managed ecosystems, such as agricultural grasslands, which receive chronic additions of nitrogen (N) fertilizers. Key questions remain about (1) how repeated N applications either in organic or inorganic forms might influence fine root mass decomposition, and (2) what implications root mass loss might have for soil carbon (C) storage. Here, we use a long‐term grassland experiment established in 1970 at Hillsborough, Northern Ireland (UK), to address how repeated additions of organic (i.e., liquid manures) and inorganic (i.e., NPK) fertilizers over >45 yr might influence fine root mass decomposition and how. We found that after a 10‐month incubation period under field conditions, highest root mass loss (~43%) was associated with highest additions of organic slurries, whereas lowest root mass loss (~29%) occurred in inorganically N‐fertilized and unfertilized soils. Root decomposition was significantly and negatively related to root C:N ratios and fungal‐to‐bacterial (F:B) ratios. Root decomposition, however, was not related to changes in soil C stocks or rates of soil C accumulation. N applications either maintained or increased (up to three times) soil C accumulation compared to unfertilized soils after five decades of intensive management. Our findings suggest that in the short‐term organic fertilization can enhance root detritus decomposition (thus promoting N release in soils for plant uptake) while contributing in the long‐term to soil C accumulation either through extra C inputs from manures or through N‐induced effects on microbial activity or both. Further studies need to address how this dual effect of organic fertilization could contribute making grassland intensification more sustainable by reducing the use of artificial NPK fertilizers.
Impact of pulsed electric field treatments on the growth parameters of wheat seeds and nutritional properties of their wheat plantlets juice
Authors: Ahmed Zahoor , Manzoor Muhammad Faisal , Ahmad Nazir , Zeng Xin‐An , Din Zia ud , Roobab Ume , Qayum Abdul , Siddique Rabia , Siddeeg Azhari , Rahaman Abdul
Published: April 2020

This study was designed to explore the impacts of the pulsed electric field (PEF; 2 to 6 kV/cm; a number of pulses 25 and 50) on wheat (Tritium aestivum L.) seeds before imbibition to improve the germination, growth, and their nutritional profile in juice form. It was observed that the PEF treatment at 6 kV/cm at 50 pulses increased water uptake, germination of seeds, and growth parameters of seedlings. A significant increase in total phenolic contents, DPPH, chlorophylls, carotenoids, soluble proteins, minerals, and amino acids in PEF‐treated seeds plantlets juice as compared to the untreated seeds plantlets juice was observed. The results indicate that the PEF may effectively stimulate the growth of the wheat kernels and positively affect their metabolism, optimize the nutrients, and enhance the strength of the wheat kernels plantlets.
Taking Racism to Heart: Race‐Related Stressors and Cardiovascular Reactivity for Multiracial People
Authors: Franco Marisa , O'Brien Karen M.
Published: April 2020

Multiracial people experience an accumulation of racial stress for both their minority and their multiracial identities, yet no research has examined the physiological impact of this stress. This within‐groups experimental study examined whether two race‐related stressors—identity invalidation and discrimination from family—affect cardiovascular reactivity for Black/White multiracial adults (N = 60). The authors found a Condition × Phase interaction effect indicating that discrimination from family affected blood pressure. Invalidation had no effect on blood pressure.

Las personas multirraciales experimentan una acumulación de estrés racial tanto a causa de su identidad multirracial como de su identidad como minoría, pero no hay investigaciones que hayan examinado el impacto psicológico de este estrés. Este estudio experimental dentro de grupos examinó si dos factores causantes de estrés relacionados con la raza (la invalidación de la identidad y la discriminación por parte de la familia) afectan a la reactividad cardiovascular de personas adultas multirraciales blancas/negras (N = 60). Los autores hallaron un efecto de interacción Condición × Fase que indica que la discriminación por parte de la familia tuvo un efecto sobre la presión sanguínea. La invalidación no tuvo efecto sobre la presión sanguínea.
Functionally Relevant Maculopathy and Optic Atrophy in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 1
Authors: Oertel Frederike Cosima , Zeitz Oliver , Rönnefarth Maria , Bereuter Charlotte , Motamedi Seyedamirhosein , Zimmermann Hanna G. , Kuchling Joseph , Grosch Anne Sophie , Doss Sarah , Browne Andrew , Paul Friedemann , Schmitz‐Hübsch Tanja , Brandt Alexander U.
Published: April 2020

Background

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA‐ATXN1) is an inherited progressive ataxia disorder characterized by an adult‐onset cerebellar syndrome combined with nonataxia signs. Retinal or optic nerve affection are not systematically described.

Objectives

To describe a retinal phenotype and its functional relevance in SCA‐ATXN1.

Methods

We applied optical coherence tomography (OCT) in 20 index cases with SCA‐ATXN1 and 22 healthy controls (HCs), investigating qualitative changes and quantifying the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness and combined ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer (GCIP) volume as markers of optic atrophy and outer retinal layers as markers of maculopathy. Visual function was assessed by high‐ (HC‐VA) and low‐contrast visual acuity (LC‐VA) and the Hardy‐Rand‐Rittler pseudoisochromatic test for color vision.

Results

Five patients (25%) showed distinct maculopathies in the ellipsoid zone (EZ). Furthermore, pRNFL (P < 0.001) and GCIP (P = 0.002) were reduced in patients (pRNFL, 80.86 ± 9.49 μm; GCIP, 1.84 ± 0.16 mm3) compared with HCs (pRNFL, 97.02 ± 8.34 μm; GCIP, 1.98 ± 0.12 mm3). Outer macular layers were similar between groups, but reduced in patients with maculopathies. HC‐VA (P = 0.002) and LC‐VA (P < 0.001) were reduced in patients (HC‐VA [logMAR]: 0.01 ± 010; LC‐VA [logMAR]: 0.44 ± 0.16) compared with HCs (HC‐VA [logMAR]: –0.12 ± 0.08; LC‐VA [logMAR]: 0.25 ± 0.05). Color vision was abnormal in 2 patients with maculopathies.

Conclusions

A distinct maculopathy, termed EZ disruption, as well as optic atrophy add to the known nonataxia features in SCA‐ATXN1. Whereas optic atrophy may be understood as part of a widespread neurodegeneration, EZ disruption may be explained by effects of ataxin‐1 gene or protein on photoreceptors. Our findings extend the spectrum of nonataxia signs in SCA‐ATXN1 with potential relevance for diagnosis and monitoring.
Global dynamics for mathematical model of Echinococcus multilocularis in rodents and red foxes
Authors: Hassan Adamu Shitu , Munganga Justin M. W.
Published: April 2020

A deterministic model for transmission of Echinococcus multilocularis (EM), a parasitic disease responsible for human alveolar echinococcosis, is formulated and analyzed rigorously. The model consists of two hosts, with three compartments each, and concentration of the parasites from environment as sources of infection. The model takes into account a predator‐prey relationship between the major hosts and obtained a threshold value for their existence. Systematic derivation of basic reproduction number,
, is provided. Thorough qualitative analysis of the model reveals that it has a local and global asymptotic stable disease‐free equilibrium when
; thus, (EM) will die out in the populations. However, when
exceeds unity, the model exhibits a unique endemic equilibrium, which is globally asymptotic stable; hence, disease will persist. The elasticity indices and partial rank correlation coefficients of the basic reproduction number and cumulative new cases of the two hosts with respect to parameter values are computed. Sensitivity analyses identified key parameters that are the most sensitive and can be used for control strategies in reducing
below unity. Numerical simulations are used to verify theoretical results and quantify prevalence of the disease in host populations.
N2–H2 plasma functionalization of carbon fiber fabric for polyaniline grafting
Authors: Ceregatti Thayara , Kunicki Lucas , Biaggio Sonia R. , Fontana Luis C. , Dalmolin Carla
Published: April 2020

Carbon fiber fabric was treated with radiofrequency plasma in a N2/H2 gas mixture to create functional groups with –NHx or –N, thus promoting conditions for polyaniline (PAni) grafting. The morphology and chemical structure of PAni on the carbon fiber surface were assessed by scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, showing strong interactions between the PAni and the carbon fiber, especially for the 5‐min plasma‐treated substrate. The electrochemical activity of electrodes consisting of carbon fiber fabric and PAni was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, which showed fast polarization response and lower charge transfer resistance for electrodes with better interactions between the PAni and the carbon fiber substrate, indicating the occurrence of grafting.
Biomimicry of Cellular Motility and Communication Based on Synthetic Soft‐Architectures
Authors: Wang Lei , Song Shidong , van Hest Jan , Abdelmohsen Loai K. E. A. , Huang Xin , Sánchez Samuel
Published: April 2020

Cells, sophisticated membrane‐bound units that contain the fundamental molecules of life, provide a precious library for inspiration and motivation for both society and academia. Scientists from various disciplines have made great endeavors toward the understanding of the cellular evolution by engineering artificial counterparts (protocells) that mimic or initiate structural or functional cellular aspects. In this regard, several works have discussed possible building blocks, designs, functions, or dynamics that can be applied to achieve this goal. Although great progress has been made, fundamental—yet complex—behaviors such as cellular communication, responsiveness to environmental cues, and motility remain a challenge, yet to be resolved. Herein, recent efforts toward utilizing soft systems for cellular mimicry are summarized—following the main outline of cellular evolution, from basic compartmentalization, and biological reactions for energy production, to motility and communicative behaviors between artificial cell communities or between artificial and natural cell communities. Finally, the current challenges and future perspectives in the field are discussed, hoping to inspire more future research and to help the further advancement of this field.
Killing G(+) or G(−) Bacteria? The Important Role of Molecular Charge in AIE‐Active Photosensitizers
Authors: Shi Xiujuan , Sung Simon H. P. , Chau Joe H. C. , Li Ying , Liu Zhiyang , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Liu Junkai , Xiao Peihong , Zhang Jiangjiang , Liu Bin , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: April 2020

Bacterial infections pose a serious threat to human health. Photodynamic therapy is an effective medical treatment to solve the problems raised by antibiotic resistant bacteria. But it is not easy to have photosensitizers (PSs) that can simultaneously produce efficient fluorescence and reactive oxygen species. Traditional PSs show compromised performances due to the aggregation‐caused quenching effect in aqueous media, however, luminogens with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) can inherently achieve high fluorescence and efficient ROS generation. In addition, electrostatic interaction is generally accepted to be responsible for initial targeting of bacteria. But for AIE PSs, the roles of molecular charges on antibacterial efficiency are rarely considered. Herein, two red‐emissive AIE PSs with the same luminogenic core but carrying different number of positive charges are designed, and their antibacterial performance and the killing mechanism toward Gram‐positive (G(+)) and Gram‐negative (G(−)) bacteria are investigated. The AIE PSs with highly efficient singlet oxygen generation can clearly image and selectively kill bacteria over mammalian cells. With the increase in the positive charges of AIE PSs, the improvement in antibacterial efficiency is great against G(−) bacteria, but it is negligible against G(+) bacteria. This research will provide new insight into the rational design of new antibacterial materials.
Safety requirements vs. crashing ethically: what matters most for policies on autonomous vehicles
Authors: Lundgren Björn
Published: April 2020

The philosophical–ethical literature and the public debate on autonomous vehicles have been obsessed with ethical issues related to crashing. In this article, these discussions, including more empirical investigations, will be critically assessed. It is argued that a related and more pressing issue is questions concerning safety. For example, what should we require from autonomous vehicles when it comes to safety? What do we mean by ‘safety’? How do we measure it? In response to these questions, the article will present a foundation for a continued discussion on these issues and an argument for why discussions about safety should be prioritized over ethical concerns related to crashing.
A role for tetraspanin proteins in regulating fusion induced by Burkholderia thailandensis
Authors: Elgawidi Atiga , Mohsin Muslim Idan , Ali Fawwaz , Watts Amyleigh , Monk Peter N. , Thomas Mark S. , Partridge Lynda J.
Published: April 2020

Burkholderia pseudomallei is the causative agent of melioidosis, a disease with high morbidity that is endemic in South East Asia and northern Australia. An unusual feature of the bacterium is its ability to induce multinucleated giant cell formation (MNGC), which appears to be related to bacterial pathogenicity. The mechanism of MNGC formation is not fully understood, but host cell factors as well as known bacterial virulence determinants are likely to contribute. Since members of the tetraspanin family of membrane proteins are involved in various types of cell:cell fusion, their role in MNGC formation induced by Burkholderia thailandensis, a mildly pathogenic species closely related to B. pseudomallei, was investigated. The effect of antibodies to tetraspanins CD9, CD81, and CD63 in MNGC formation induced by B. thailandensis in infected mouse J774.2 and RAW macrophage cell lines was assessed along with that of recombinant proteins corresponding to the large extracellular domain (EC2) of the tetraspanins. B. thailandensis-induced fusion was also examined in macrophages derived from CD9 null and corresponding WT mice, and in J774.2 macrophages over-expressing CD9. Antibodies to CD9 and CD81 promoted MNGC formation induced by B. thailandensis, whereas EC2 proteins of CD9, CD81, and CD63 inhibited MNGC formation. Enhanced MNGC formation was observed in CD9 null macrophages, whereas a decrease in MNGC formation was associated with overexpression of CD9. Overall our findings show that tetraspanins are involved in MNGC formation induced by B. thailandensis and by implication, B. pseudomallei, with CD9 and CD81 acting as negative regulators of this process.
Effect of Low-Temperature Plasma Nitriding on Corrosion and Surface Properties of Duplex Stainless Steel UNS S32205
Authors: Núñez de la Rosa Yamid E. , Palma Calabokis Oriana , Borges Paulo César , Ballesteros Ballesteros Vladimir
Published: April 2020

The duplex stainless steel UNS S32205 was plasma nitrided at 380 °C for 10 h using a gas mixture of 25% N2-75% H2. The thickness of the nitrided layer was 4.5 ± 0.5 μm, composed mainly of nitrogen-expanded austenite and iron nitrides precipitates. There was an increase in surface hardness around 2.6 and 3.8 times in the nitrided layer formed on the austenite and the ferrite phases, respectively, in relation to the untreated samples. The surface texture parameters skewness (Ssk), maximum peak height (Sp) and texture aspect ratio (Str) were the most appropriate parameters for studying the topography changes after treatment. An improvement in the localized corrosion properties after the nitriding treatment was revealed by the cyclic polarization curves. The nitrided samples showed higher pitting corrosion and repassivation potentials compared to the untreated material. The ferritic phases and grain boundaries were more susceptible to corrosion in the nitrided samples. The potentiodynamic curves of the nitrided samples exhibited a hillside on the passive-to-transpassive transition. This feature was already observed by other researchers, but it has not been well investigated. Potentiostatic studies demonstrated that metastable pitting took place on this transition.
Numeracy, adult education, and vulnerable adults: a critical view of a neglected field
Authors: Gal Iddo , Grotlüschen Anke , Tout Dave , Kaiser Gabriele
Published: April 2020

This survey paper examines selected issues related to the intersection of three broad scholarly areas:numeracy,adult education, andvulnerability. Numeracy encompasses the ways in which people cope with the mathematical, quantitative, and statistical demands of adult life, and is viewed as an important outcome of schooling and as a foundational skill for all adults. The focus on vulnerability stems from the realization that concerns of policy makers and educators alike often center on populations seen as vulnerable. The paper is organized in five sections. After a brief introduction, Section 2 examines adult numeracy, focusing on five numeracy domains (health, financial, digital, civic, and workplace numeracy), literacy–numeracy linkages, functional and critical aspects of numeracy, and the centrality of numeracy practices, and notes sources of vulnerability for each of these. Section 3 sketches formal, non-formal and informal contexts in which adults learn or develop their numeracy, and examines factors that may be potential sources of vulnerability, including systemic factors and dispositional and affect factors. Section 4 reflects more broadly on the concept of vulnerability, introduces selected aspects of the papers published in this issue ofZDM Mathematics Education, and points to findings regarding adult learners who may be deemed vulnerable. The closing section summarizes conclusions and research directions regarding the intersection of the three core domains. Overall, the paper points to emerging research needs and educational challenges that are relevant to scholars, practitioners, and policy makers interested in developing the numeracy of adults as well as in the mathematics education of younger learners.
Jews, Mobility, and Sex: Popular Entertainment between Budapest, Vienna, and New York around 1900
Authors: Korbel Susanne
Published: April 2020

This article investigates the coinciding of the mass migration from Europe to the Americas and the emergence of mass culture, two developments that shaped everyday life, popular entertainment, and Jewish and non-Jewish relations at the turn of the twentieth century. Jewish actors and actresses were among the most prominent performers who staged inOrpheums,Varietés, and vaudevilles on both sides of the Atlantic. In their performances they drew on the notion of a new quality of mobility that society was experiencing, utilizing it to negotiate issues such as of the cultural construction of identities and Jewishness, or to critically reexamine antisemitic and nationalistic attitudes. On the one hand, mobility enabled negotiations of controversial issues. On the other hand, mobility led to accusations against popular entertainment, both legitimate and erroneous—for example, that vaudevilles functioned as covers for clandestine prostitution. Therefore, the article examines the question of how mobility influenced popular culture. What were the controversial issues that mobility raised, and what accusations did these evoke? In what ways did actors and actresses in popular culture address gender and Jewishness? To answer these questions, the article analyzes the spaces of popular entertainment in Budapest, Vienna, and New York through close examinations of newspapers, manuscripts, playbills, and records of censorship.
A NOTE ON THE RELATION BETWEEN SEARCH COSTS AND SEARCH DURATION FOR NEW HIRES
Authors: Carbonero Francesco , Gartner Hermann
Published: April 2020

Fixed search costs, that is, costs that do not vary with search duration, can amplify the cyclical volatility of the labor market. To assess the size of fixed costs, we analyze the relation between search costs and search duration using German establishment data. An instrumental variable estimation shows no relation between search duration and search costs. We conclude that search costs are mainly fixed costs. Furthermore, we show that a search and matching model, calibrated for Germany with fixed costs close to 75%, can generate labor market volatility that is consistent with the data.
Differentiating and connecting indicators: the quality and performance of law in the World Bank's Doing Business Project
Authors: Arslan Melike
Published: April 2020

Scholars have long argued that transnational legal indicators (TLIs) suffer from significant validity problems. In response to such critiques, the World Bank (WB) reformed its Doing Business (DB) legal indicators in 2014. This paper evaluates two important results of this reform: the WB distinguished between the quality and performance (efficiency) of law indicators and also claimed that they are positively correlated. I argue that this distinction is based on two different utilitarian perspectives; therefore, these indicators try to quantify different aspects of laws. However, new empirical tests indicate that they are not correlated. The statistical tests on the DB Resolving Insolvency Indicators do not show any strong correlation, and the case of Turkey's WB-led insolvency-law reform suggests that the developing countries can even incur efficiency losses from legal-quality improvements. Thus, this study demonstrates that the 2014 DB reform reproduced the validity problems inside the new distinctions and connections between its indicators, potentially creating new misconceptions for policy-makers.
Petrogenesis of Transitional Large Igneous Province: Insights From Bimodal Volcanic Suite in the Tarim Large Igneous Province
Authors: Cheng Zhiguo , Zhang Zhaochong , Wang Zhenchao , Wang Fangyue , Mao Qian , Xu Lijuan , Ke Shan , Yu Huimin , Santosh M.
Published: April 2020

The Tarim large igneous province (TLIP) corresponds to a transitional large igneous province based on the high proportion of felsic rocks, classifying between mafic and silicic large igneous provinces. Here we investigate a bimodal suite including trachydacite, rhyolite, and basanite from the Northern Tarim Uplift using petrological, geochemical, stable, and radiogenic isotopic techniques with a view to understand the formation of the TLIP. Our study reveals a multistage origin involving multiple components, although the various rock suites are genetically linked and formed under a rift incubation setting related to mantle plume. The low δ26 Mg values (−0.48‰ to −0.71‰), Fe/Mn > 60, FC3MS (FeOT/CaO‐3*MgO/SiO2) > 0.65, and high TiO2 contents (4.45–4.93 wt.%) of basanite from this suite suggest formation through partial melting of carbonated eclogite formed by recycled oceanic crust. The thick lithosphere beneath the Tarim Craton promoted extensive interaction between the underplated basaltic magmas and crust‐derived magmas leading to the formation of multistage magma chambers. Geochemical and mineralogical studies suggest that the trachydacite experienced a mixing, assimilation, storage, and hybridization process, whereas the rhyolite was produced by fractional crystallization from the associated mantle‐derived magma with significant crustal contamination. The abundance of amphibole in the trachydacite suggests a hydrous parental magma with H2O content in the range of 2.75 to 4.05 wt.%. Our results suggest that hydrous crustal components contributed significantly in the formation of voluminous felsic rocks of the TLIP.
Novel Acoustic Method Provides First Detailed Measurements of Sediment Concentration Structure Within Submarine Turbidity Currents
Authors: Simmons S. M. , Azpiroz‐Zabala M. , Cartigny M. J .B. , Clare M. A. , Cooper C. , Parsons D. R. , Pope E. L. , Sumner E. J. , Talling P. J.
Published: April 2020

Turbidity currents transport prodigious volumes of sediment to the deep sea. But there are very few direct measurements from oceanic turbidity currents, ensuring they are poorly understood. Recent studies have used acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCPs) to measure velocity profiles of turbidity currents. However, there were no detailed measurements of sediment concentration, which is a critical parameter because it provides the driving force and debate centers on whether flows are dilute or dense. Here we provide the most detailed measurements yet of sediment concentration in turbidity currents via a new method using dual‐frequency acoustic backscatter ADCP data. Backscatter intensity depends on size and concentration of sediment, and we disentangle these effects. This approach is used to document the internal structure of turbidity currents in Congo Canyon. Flow duration is bimodal, and some flows last for 5–10 days. All flows are mainly dilute (<10 g/L), although faster flows contain a short‐lived initial period of coarser‐grained or higher‐concentration flow within a few meters of the bed. The body of these flows tends toward a maximum speed of 0.8–1 m/s, which may indicate an equilibrium in which flow speeds suspend available sediment. Average sediment concentration and flow thickness determine the gravitational driving force, which we then compared to average velocities. This comparison suggests surprisingly low friction values, comparable to or less than those of major rivers. This new approach therefore provides fundamental insights into one of the major sediment transport processes on Earth.
ECOSTRESS: NASA's Next Generation Mission to Measure Evapotranspiration From the International Space Station
Authors: Fisher Joshua B. , Lee Brian , Purdy Adam J. , Halverson Gregory H. , Dohlen Matthew B. , Cawse‐Nicholson Kerry , Wang Audrey , Anderson Ray G. , Aragon Bruno , Arain M. Altaf , Baldocchi Dennis D. , Baker John M. , Barral Hélène , Bernacchi Carl J. , Bernhofer Christian , Biraud Sébastien C. , Bohrer Gil , Brunsell Nathaniel , Cappelaere Bernard , Castro‐Contreras Saulo , Chun Junghwa , Conrad Bryan J. , Cremonese Edoardo , Demarty Jérôme , Desai Ankur R. , De Ligne Anne , Foltýnová Lenka , Goulden Michael L. , Griffis Timothy J. , Grünwald Thomas , Johnson Mark S. , Kang Minseok , Kelbe Dave , Kowalska Natalia , Lim Jong‐Hwan , Maïnassara Ibrahim , McCabe Matthew F. , Missik Justine E.C. , Mohanty Binayak P. , Moore Caitlin E. , Morillas Laura , Morrison Ross , Munger J. William , Posse Gabriela , Richardson Andrew D. , Russell Eric S. , Ryu Youngryel , Sanchez‐Azofeifa Arturo , Schmidt Marius , Schwartz Efrat , Sharp Iain , Šigut Ladislav , Tang Yao , Hulley Glynn , Anderson Martha , Hain Christopher , French Andrew , Wood Eric , Hook Simon
Published: April 2020

The ECOsystem Spaceborne Thermal Radiometer Experiment on Space Station (ECOSTRESS) was launched to the International Space Station on 29 June 2018 by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The primary science focus of ECOSTRESS is centered on evapotranspiration (ET), which is produced as Level‐3 (L3) latent heat flux (LE) data products. These data are generated from the Level‐2 land surface temperature and emissivity product (L2_LSTE), in conjunction with ancillary surface and atmospheric data. Here, we provide the first validation (Stage 1, preliminary) of the global ECOSTRESS clear‐sky ET product (L3_ET_PT‐JPL, Version 6.0) against LE measurements at 82 eddy covariance sites around the world. Overall, the ECOSTRESS ET product performs well against the site measurements (clear‐sky instantaneous/time of overpass: r2 = 0.88; overall bias = 8%; normalized root‐mean‐square error, RMSE = 6%). ET uncertainty was generally consistent across climate zones, biome types, and times of day (ECOSTRESS samples the diurnal cycle), though temperate sites are overrepresented. The 70‐m‐high spatial resolution of ECOSTRESS improved correlations by 85%, and RMSE by 62%, relative to 1‐km pixels. This paper serves as a reference for the ECOSTRESS L3 ET accuracy and Stage 1 validation status for subsequent science that follows using these data.
In vitro expansion of pancreatic islet clusters facilitated by hormones and chemicals
Authors: Lin Jing-Yu , Cheng Jie , Du Ya-Qin , Pan Wei , Zhang Zhong , Wang Jin , An Jie , Yang Fan , Xu Yun-Fei , Lin Hui , An Wen-Tao , Wang Jia , Yang Zhao , Chai Ren-Jie , Sha Xue-Ying , Hu Hui-Li , Sun Jin-Peng , Yu Xiao
Published: April 2020

Tissue regeneration, such as pancreatic islet tissue propagation in vitro, could serve as a promising strategy for diabetes therapy and personalised drug testing. However, such a strategy has not been realised yet. Propagation could be divided into two steps, in vitro expansion and repeated passaging. Even the first step of the in vitro islet expansion has not been achieved to date. Here, we describe a method that enables the expansion of islet clusters isolated from pregnant mice or wild-type rats by employing a combination of specific regeneration factors and chemical compounds in vitro. The expanded islet clusters expressed insulin, glucagon and somatostatin, which are markers corresponding to pancreatic β cells, α cells and δ cells, respectively. These different types of cells grouped together, were spatially organised and functioned similarly to primary islets. Further mechanistic analysis revealed that forskolin in our recipe contributed to renewal and regeneration, whereas exendin-4 was essential for preserving islet cell identity. Our results provide a novel method for the in vitro expansion of islet clusters, which is an important step forward in developing future protocols and media used for islet tissue propagation in vitro. Such method is important for future regenerative diabetes therapies and personalised medicines using large amounts of pancreatic islets derived from the same person.
Non-covalent bridging of bithiophenes through chalcogen bonding grips
Authors: Romito Deborah , Biot Nicolas , Babudri Francesco , Bonifazi Davide
Published: April 2020

In this work, chalcogen functionalized dithiophenes, equipped on both extremities with chalcogen-bonding recognition heterocycles, have been prepared following two synthetic pathways.
Using FRET to measure the time it takes for a cell to destroy a virus
Authors: Benjamin Candace E. , Chen Zhuo , Brohlin Olivia R. , Lee Hamilton , Shahrivarkevishahi Arezoo , Boyd Stefanie , Winkler Duane D. , Gassensmith Jeremiah J.
Published: April 2020

The emergence of viral nanotechnology over the preceding two decades has created a number of intellectually captivating possible translational applications; however, the in vitro fate of the viral nanoparticles in cells remains an open question.
Efficacious elimination of intramolecular charge transfer in perylene imide based light-harvesting antenna molecules
Authors: Dubey Rajeev K. , Inan Damla , Philip Abbey M. , Grozema Ferdinand C. , Jager Wolter F.
Published: April 2020

A new design for the perylene dye-based light-harvesting antenna systems is presented, which enables complete suppression of parasitic intramolecular charge-transfer.
F-doping of nanostructured ZnO: a way to modify structural, electronic, and surface properties
Authors: Wolf Elisabeth Hannah , Millet Marie-Mathilde , Seitz Friedrich , Redeker Frenio A. , Riedel Wiebke , Scholz Gudrun , Hetaba Walid , Teschner Detre , Wrabetz Sabine , Girgsdies Frank , Klyushin Alexander , Risse Thomas , Riedel Sebastian , Frei Elias
Published: April 2020

The structure, electronic properties, and surface acidity of polycrystalline ZnO are modified using F2(g). The amount of F incorporated influences the samples' properties, which were studied using,e.g., FT-IR, XPS, TEM, NMR, and microcalorimetry.
Soft XAS as an in situ technique for the study of heterogeneous catalysts
Authors: Beaumont Simon K.
Published: April 2020

Perspectives on the use of soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy as a tool to rationally develop new heterogeneous catalysts.