bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leader cell activity and collective invasion by an autocrine nucleotide loop through connexin-43 hemichannels and ADORA1
Authors: Khalil Antoine A. , Ilina Olga , Vasaturo Angela , Venhuizen Jan-Hendrik , Vullings Manon , Venhuizen Victor , Bilos Ab , Figdor Carl , Span Paul N. , Friedl Peter
Published: December 2019

Progression of epithelial cancers predominantly proceeds by collective invasion of cell groups with coordinated cell-cell junctions and multicellular cytoskeletal activity. Collectively invading breast cancer cells co-express adherens junctions and connexin-43 (Cx43) gap junctionsin vitroand in patient samples, yet whether gap junctions contribute to collective invasion remains unclear. We here show that Cx43 is required for chemical coupling between collectively invading breast cancer cells and, by its hemichannel function, adenosine nucleotide release into the extracellular space. Using molecular interference and rescue strategiesin vitroand in orthotopic mammary tumorsin vivo, Cx43-dependent adenosine nucleotide release was identified as essential mediator engaging the nucleoside receptor ADORA1, to induce leader cell activity and collective migration. In clinical samples joint-upregulation of Cx43 and ADORA1 predicts decreased relapse-free survival. This identifies autocrine nucleotide signaling, through a Cx43/ADORA1 axis, as critical pathway in leader cell function and collective cancer cell invasion.

Graphical abstract
The Cryo-EM Structure of a Pannexin 1 Channel Reveals an Extracellular Gating Mechanism
Authors: Michalski Kevin , Syrjanen Johanna L. , Henze Erik , Kumpf Julia , Furukawa Hiro , Kawate Toshimitsu
Published: December 2019

Pannexins are large-pore forming channels responsible for ATP release under a variety of physiological and pathological conditions. Although predicted to share similar membrane topology with other large-pore forming proteins such as connexins, innexins, and LRRC8, pannexins have minimal sequence similarity to these protein families. Here, we present the cryo-EM structure of a pannexin 1 (Panx1) channel at 3.0 Å. We find that Panx1 protomers harbor four transmembrane helices similar in arrangement to other large-pore forming proteins but assemble as a heptameric channel with a unique gate formed by Trp74 in the extracellular loop. Mutating Trp74 or the nearby Arg75 disrupt ion selectivity whereas altering residues in the hydrophobic groove formed by the two extracellular loops abrogates channel inhibition by carbenoxolone. Our structural and functional study establishes the extracellular loops as the unique structural determinants for channel gating and inhibition in Panx1 thereby providing the founding model to study pannexins.
Increased calcidiol level in redhaired people: Could redheadedness be an adaptation to temperate climate?
Authors: Flegr Jaroslav , Sýkorová Kateřina , Fiala Vojtěch , Hlaváčová Jana , Bičíková Marie , Máčová Ludmila , Kaňková Šárka
Published: December 2019

About 1–2% of European population are redhaired, meaning they synthesize more pheomelanin than eumelanin, the main melanin pigment. Several mutations could be responsible for this phenotype. It has been suggested that corresponding mutations spread in Europe due to a founder effect shaped either by a relaxation of selection for dark, UV-protective phenotypes or by sexual selection in favor of rare phenotypes. In our study, we investigated the levels of vitamin D precursor calcidiol and folic acid in the blood serum of 73 redhaired and 130 non-redhaired individuals. In redhaired individuals, we found higher calcidiol concentrations and approximately the same folic acid concentrations as in non-redhaired subjects. Calcidiol concentrations correlated with the intensity of hair redness measured by two spectrophotometric methods and estimated by participants themselves and by independent observers. In non-redhaired individuals, calcidiol levels covaried with the amount of sun exposure and intensity of suntan while in redhaired individuals, this was not the case. It suggests that increased calcidiol levels in redhaired individuals are due to differences in physiology rather than in behavior. We also found that folic acid levels increased with age and the intensity of baldness and decreased with the frequency of visiting tanning salons. Our results suggest that the redhaired phenotype could be an evolutionary adaptation for sufficient photosynthesis of provitamin D in conditions of low intensity of UV-B radiation in central and northern parts of Europe.
Are “youth days” effective at motivating new sport participation? Evidence from a pre-post event research design
Authors: Bakhsh Jordan Taylor , Potwarka Luke R. , Snelgrove Ryan
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the effects that exposure to a youth day event at an elite sport competition has on youth spectators’ motivations to participate in the sport on display.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper was underpinned by the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Pre- and post-event questionnaires were administered to local grade seven and eight students (n=318) as part of a youth day event at the 2016 Milton International Track Cycling Challenge in Ontario, Canada. Questionnaires assessed each TPB construct one week before the youth day and immediately following the event.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights about the shifts from pre- to post-event behavioral antecedent measures. Results suggest youth day events can be effective at driving positive shifts in participation intention and subjective norm among youth populations.

Research limitations/implications

A control group was not possible as an ethical limitation was created from the school boards which did not allow for some students/classes within the study to not experience the event. Researchers are encouraged to develop a study which allows for a youth control group and assesses the shift in behavioral antecedents at multiple time points post-event.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for how to leverage subjective norms as a means of motivating post-event participation.

Originality/value

The paper fulfils a methodological gap to move beyond cross-sectional data and employ pre-post event research designs to measure the effect spectating an elite sport competition can have on youth’s motivation to participate in the sport on display.
Influence of natural barytes purity levels on the tribological characteristics of non-asbestos brake pads
Authors: R. Vijay , S. Manoharan , D. Lenin Singaravelu
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to deal with the effect of natural barytes purity levels on the tribological performance of brake pads.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, brake pads were developed by varying three different natural barytes without varying other ingredients. The brake pads were developed as per the standard industrial practice. The physical, mechanical and thermal properties of the developed brake pads were tested as per the industrial standards. The tribological properties were analyzed using a full-scale inertia brake dynamometer. Worn surface analysis was done using scanning electron microscope coupled with elemental mapping.

Findings

The experimental results indicate that the brake pads filled with natural barytes 95% purity had good physical, chemical and mechanical properties with stable friction and less wear rate due to reduced impurity level preventing frictional undulations.

Originality/value

This paper explains the effect of the purity level of natural barytes in brake pads formulation to enhance the tribological performance by altering tribofilms and preventing friction undulations.
Determinants of contract renewals in business-to-business relationships
Authors: Cabral Sandro , Ribeiro Priscila Fernandes , Romão Sanders Zurdo
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the underlying factors of contract renewals in business-to-business (B2B) contracts.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors build a unique data set with 296 contracts signed between a major firm supplying petrochemical goods and its 128 customers between 2013 and 2016. They use Insider Econometrics as their methodological approach.

Findings

The econometric results suggest that contracts involving higher volume of trade, higher levels of dedicated assets representing seller’s specific investments in each transaction, and contracts comprising more than one product present an increased likelihood of being renewed.

Research limitations/implications

Although limited to a single organization, this paper contributes to management theories focused on buyer–supplier relationships in which coordination between interdependent parties is required.

Practical implications

Practitioners engaged in B2B relationships may benefit from the findings to shape their bargaining strategies in contexts of high levels of asset specificity and bilateral dependence.

Originality/value

This paper contribute to theories related to the strategic negotiation between buyers and suppliers by emphasizing the importance of asset specificity in a nuanced and multifaceted fashion, by highlighting aspects related to resource dependency, and idiosyncratic characteristics on contract renewal.
Case study research: opening up research opportunities
Authors: Takahashi Adriana Roseli Wünsch , Araujo Luis
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The case study approach has been widely used in management studies and the social sciences more generally. However, there are still doubts about when and how case studies should be used. This paper aims to discuss this approach, its various uses and applications, in light of epistemological principles, as well as the criteria for rigor and validity.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper discusses the various concepts of case and case studies in the methods literature and addresses the different uses of cases in relation to epistemological principles and criteria for rigor and validity.

Findings

The use of this research approach can be based on several epistemologies, provided the researcher attends to the internal coherence between method and epistemology, or what the authors call “alignment.”

Originality/value

This study offers a number of implications for the practice of management research, as it shows how the case study approach does not commit the researcher to particular data collection or interpretation methods. Furthermore, the use of cases can be justified according to multiple epistemological orientations.
An employee-oriented perspective in the value-creating mission of social enterprises
Authors: Nguyen Quynh-Trang , Lee Ming-Yen , Hu Yi-Chung
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This study aims to concentrate on a specific perspective that has mostly been ignored: employees in social enterprises (SEs). It proposes that employees in SEs should be treated with equal importance to outside beneficiaries within the SEs’ value-creating mission.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple case study approach is adopted, and semi-structured interviews are the primary means of data collection.

Findings

The results show that while economic values are fundamental for the employment relationship, social values play the leading role in employees’ motivation; thus, they can significantly affect the organization’s operation and development.

Research limitations/implications

This work contributes to Maslow’s need theory and psychological contract theory regarding their application to SEs. Practical lessons and suggestions are also provided for SEs’ development.

Originality/value

By emphasizing the value-creating mission of SEs with the new perspective of including employees in it, this work provides empirical evidence and practical lessons for SEs, especially Asian SEs, in terms of management and strategy.
Provenance Variability of the Triassic Strata in the Turpan‐Hami Basin: Detrital Zircon Record of Indosinian Tectonic Reactivation in the Eastern Tianshan
Authors: ZHANG Shaohua , LIU Chiyang , BAI Jianke , WANG Jianqiang , MA Ming , GUAN Yuzhao , PENG Heng
Published: December 2019

The Triassic strata in the Turpan‐Hami Basin potentially chronicled the missing sedimentary record of Indosinian tectonic evolution in the Eastern Tianshan. In this study, we conducted detrital zircon U‐Pb geochronological analyses on subsurface Triassic samples collected from the Turpan‐Hami Basin to unravel sedimentary response of Indosinian tectonic reactivation and its geodynamics. The detrital zircon age spectra of the Triassic samples are quite different, reflecting significant provenance variability. The zircon grains in the Lower Triassic sample were mainly from the Central Tianshan, while the Jueluotag acted as a minor provenance. By contrast, the Late Paleozoic rocks in Jueluotag act as the main provenance for the Middle‐Upper Triassic samples, while the Central Tianshan acted as a minor provenance. Furthermore, zircon grains in the Middle Triassic sample were mainly from the Permian rocks in Jueluotag, while Indosinian strike‐slip‐driven rapid exhumation brought deeper Carboniferous rocks of Jueluotag as an important age population for the Upper Triassic sample. The inter‐sample variability of age spectra of the Triassic samples provides sedimentary evidence for Indosinian tectonic reactivation in the Eastern Tianshan and its periphery, which could be attributed to differential exhumation of different sources driven by coeval strike‐slip tectonics along deep faults. The Indosinian tectonic behavior in the Eastern Tianshan, which is characterized by partial melting of the pre‐thickened crust and strike‐slip deformation, acted as a far‐field respond to the coeval continental accretion occurring along the southern Eurasian margin. Additionally, our new detrital zircon data, together with previously published data in the Turpan‐Hami Basin, demonstrate that there are significant changes in source‐to‐sink system from the Permian to the Triassic, suggesting that the Permian‐Triassic unconformity in the Eastern Tianshan and its periphery was generated by Late Permian‐Early Triassic tectonic contraction and inversion rather than an increasingly arid climate.
IMF‐World Bank Cooperation Before and After the Global Financial Crisis
Authors: Kranke Matthias
Published: December 2019

This article adopts a diachronic view to compare patterns of institutional evolution of cooperation between the International Monetary Fund (IMF or Fund) and the World Bank (or Bank) before and after the global financial crisis. While the rules for Fund‐Bank cooperation had typically been tightened in response to crisis episodes, on balance they were loosened in the wake of the global financial crisis. Building on over 90 semi‐structured expert interviews and relevant official documentation, I argue that this new trend was grounded in changed imaginaries of cooperation among IMF and World Bank officials. Whereas they had tended to envisage integrative futures in key areas of operational overlap before the crisis, alternative visions of more fragmented joint futures came to prevail after it. This difference manifested itself in a profound shift in official discourses about, as well as interviewee accounts of, the function of the Financial Sector Assessment Programme (FSAP) and Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers (PRSPs). The analysis foregrounds the reflexivity of relationships between international organisations (IOs), especially the ability of IO staff involved in cooperative activities to (re)construct imaginaries that can foster or foreclose inter‐organisational change.
REPRESENTATION AND NOVELTY IN AESCHYLUS’ THEOROI
Authors: THOMAS OLIVER
Published: December 2019

This article argues in favour of the view that in Theoroi (a.k.a. Isthmiastai) the satyrs had absconded from Dionysus’ choral training, and dedicate a set of votive masks on Poseidon’s Isthmian temple. I propose that at the end of fr. 78c Dionysus offers them javelins and suggests that they dance a pyrrhikhe. This plot rests on a blurring of the distinctions between satyr, human character, and human performer. I interpret how Aeschylus managed plot, scenery, masks, costume, and language in order to transform this blurring to elicit from the audience humorous reflection on the nature of dramatic innovation and of drama as a representational medium.
Making globalisation work
Authors: Yueh Linda
Published: December 2019

Leading economists consider how attitudes I have changed and what the future might hold, in discussion with Linda Yueh
Take cover
Authors: Portes Richard
Published: December 2019

We may well be on the brink of the next crisis, says Richard Portes – but panic should not be on your agenda
Behavioural economics
Authors: Faro David , Zaliauskas Redis
Published: December 2019

Can an emerging research field help people make better financial decisions? By David Faro and Redis Zaliauskas
The ABC of ESG
Authors: Pavlova Anna
Published: December 2019

Environmental, social and governance investing is now mainstream – but measuring the performance of ‘green’ products and their asset managers is complex. By Anna Pavlova
Leave your ego behind
Authors: Jacobides Michael G
Published: December 2019

How should leaders adapt to the new world of business ecosystems? For a start, says Michael G Jacobides, they need to realise that their customers now call the shots
In my opinion…
Authors: Servaes Henri
Published: December 2019

Holding onto investors' cash stems from a pernicious mindset, warns Henri Servaes
Kate Robertson
Authors: Robertson Kate
Published: December 2019

THE CO‐FOUNDER OF ONE YOUNG WORLD IS SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION OF GLOBAL LEADERS
Parminder Basran
Authors: Basran Parminder
Published: December 2019

FOUNDER AND MANAGING PARTNER OF VGC PARTNERS OUTLINES THE KEY STEPS TO TAKE YOUR BUSINESS GLOBAL
How Dubai does business
Authors: Chapman Gary
Published: December 2019

Gary Chapman, President of the largest airline services provider in UAE, on how he has piloted the company's rapid growth
Performance of the quick SOFA in very old ICU patients admitted with sepsis
Authors: Haas Lenneke E. M. , Termorshuizen Fabian , de Lange Dylan W. , van Dijk Diederik , de Keizer Nicolette F.
Published: December 2019

Background

The number of very elderly ICU patients (abbreviated to VOPs; ≥80 years) with sepsis increases. Sepsis was redefined in 2016 (sepsis 3.0) using the quick SOFA (qSOFA) score. Since then, multiple studies have validated qSOFA for prognostication in different patient categories, but the prognostic value in VOPs with sepsis is still unknown.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study including patients admitted to Dutch ICUs with sepsis, in the period 2012 to 2016, evaluating the outcome and the performance of qSOFA, an extended qSOFA model, SOFA, SAPS II, and APACHE IV for hospital mortality.

Results

5969 patients were included, of which 935 VOPs. Crude hospital mortality rates were 19%, 28%, and 39% for patients aged 18‐65, 65‐80, and ≥80 years respectively. Discriminative performance of qSOFA for in‐hospital mortality in VOPs was poor (AUC 0.596) and lower than that of SOFA, APACHE IV, and SAPS II (0.704, 0.722, and 0.780 respectively). A qSOFA model extended with several other characteristics (AUC 0.643) was non‐inferior to the full SOFA, but still inferior to APACHE IV and SAPS II, for all age groups. The Hosmer‐Lemeshow goodness‐of‐fit test showed non‐significant p‐values for all models. Accuracy for both qSOFA and the extended qSOFA was lower compared to APACHE IV and SAPS II (Brier scores 0.227, 0.223, 0.184, and 0.183 respectively).

Conclusion

The qSOFA showed worse discriminative performance to predict mortality than SOFA, APACHE IV, and SAPS II in both VOPs and younger patients admitted with sepsis.
Comparing glaucoma medications and general demographics in a sample of glaucoma patients treated in private practice with nationwide registry data in Finland
Authors: Parkkari Minna , Taipale Joonas , Uusitalo Hannu
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To investigate the outpatient glaucoma care provided by Finnish private ophthalmologists and to compare this information with the data obtained from national databases.

Methods

The data were collected by 13 investigators in 27 centres in southern Finland. Patient demography, relevant systemic diseases, possible history of ocular surgery, duration of glaucoma, intraocular pressure (IOP) and type of glaucoma were registered. Ocular hypertensive medication(s) used during the last 6 months were recorded using the generic name coded by the currentATC/DDDindex. The data were compared with a dataset obtained from theIMSHealth database and the Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela).

Results

In total, 568 patients from private ophthalmology clinics were included. Mean age was 70 years (range 30–90 years), and the mean duration of glaucoma was 8.3 years. In general,IOPcontrol was good (mean 16.9 mmHg). The average cost of glaucoma treatment for a single study patient was 336 euros per year.

The findings obtained from the survey were similar to those of the nationwide databases, although fewer of the more aggressive glaucoma cases were managed in the private clinics examined during the study.

Conclusion

The study patients were treated effectively by private ophthalmologist. Their medication and the cost of medication were the same as in public clinics. Patients with aggressive glaucoma seem to be generally managed by public hospitals.
Body size at birth and age‐related macular degeneration in old age
Authors: Haapanen Markus J. , von Bonsdorff Mikaela B. , Fisher Diana , Jonasson Fridbert , Eiriksdottir Gudny , Gudnason Vilmundur , Cotch Mary Frances
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To study associations between body size at birth and age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) in old age.

Methods

The study sample consists of 1497 community‐dwelling individuals (56.1% women) aged 67–89 years with birth data and retinal data collected twice in old age 5 years apart. Birth data (weight, length, birth order) were extracted from original birth records. Digital retinal photographs were graded to determine AMD status. Data on covariates were collected at the baseline physical examination in old age. Multivariable regression analyses were used to study the association between birth data and AMD adjusting for known confounding factors, including birth year cohort effects.

Results

The prevalence and 5‐year incidence of any AMD were 33.1% and 17.0%, respectively. Men and women born in 1930–1936 were significantly leaner and slightly longer at birth compared to those in earlier birth cohorts. There were no consistent associations between weight, length or ponderal index (PI) at birth and AMD in old age even when stratified by birth cohort. Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) prevalence (39.8%) and 5‐year incidence (28.6%) were highest in individuals who were in the highest quartile of PI at birth and who were obese in old age.

Conclusion

Body size at birth was not consistently associated with AMD in old age, suggesting that intrauterine growth might have little direct importance in the development of AMD in old age. It is possible that some yet unknown factors related to larger size at birth and obesity in old age may explain differences in the prevalence and incidence of AMD in the ageing population.
Processes of ‘hummocky moraine’ formation in the Gaick, Scotland: insights into the ice‐marginal dynamics of a Younger Dryas plateau icefield
Authors: Chandler Benjamin M. P. , Lukas Sven , Boston Clare M.
Published: December 2019

Younger Dryas ice‐marginal (‘hummocky’) moraines in Scotland represent valuable terrestrial archives that can be used to obtain important information on ice‐marginal dynamics and glacier thermal regimes during a period of rapid climatic change. In this paper, we present detailed sedimentological studies of Younger Dryas ice‐marginal moraines in the Gaick, central Scotland, the former site of a spatially restricted plateau icefield. Exposures demonstrate that moraines in the Gaick represent terrestrial ice‐contact fans, with evidence of proglacial and subglacial glaciotectonization, as reported elsewhere in Scotland. The exposures also reveal the influence of local hydrogeological conditions, with pressurization of the groundwater system leading to the formation of hydrofracture fills within some moraines. Clast shape analysis shows that all the moraines contain debris consistent with transport in the subglacial traction zone. The sedimentological data, and the planform arrangement of the moraines as nested arcs or chevrons, indicate that retreat of the Younger Dryas Gaick Icefield outlets was incremental and oscillatory. This evidence strongly suggests a mainly temperate thermal regime and short glacier response times, but with narrow cold‐ice zones near the margins facilitating the elevation of basal debris to the glacier surface. Analogous glaciodynamic regimes occur at modern ice‐cap and plateau icefield outlets in Iceland and Norway, although there are significant differences in the nature of ice‐marginal deposition. The glaciodynamic signature recorded by moraines in the Gaick has allowed us to shed new light on the ice‐marginal dynamics and thermal regime of one of the most easterly Younger Dryas icefields in Scotland.
Ephemeral rollover points and clinothem evolution in the modern Po Delta based on repeated bathymetric surveys
Authors: Trincardi Fabio , Amorosi Alessandro , Bosman Alessandro , Correggiari Annamaria , Madricardo Fantina , Pellegrini Claudio
Published: December 2019

Reconstructions of ancient delta systems rely typically on a two‐dimensional (2D) view of prograding clinothems but may miss their three‐dimensional (3D) stratigraphic complexity which can, instead, be best documented on modern delta systems by integrating high‐resolution geophysical data, historical cartography, core data and geomorphological reconstructions offshore. We quantitatively compare three precisely positioned, high‐resolution multi‐beam bathymetry maps in the delta front and pro delta sectors (0.3 to 10 m water depth) of Po di Pila, the most active of the modern Po Delta five branches. By investigating the detailed morphology of the prograding modern Po Delta, we shed new light on the mechanisms that control the topset to foreset transition in clinothems and show the temporal and spatial complexity of a delta and its pro delta slope, under the impact of oceanographic processes. This study documents the ephemeral nature of the rollover point at the transition between sandy topset (fluvial, delta plain to mouth‐bar) and muddy seaward‐dipping foreset deposits advancing, in this case, in >20 m of water depth. Three multibeam surveys, acquired between 2013 and 2016, document the complexity in space and time of the topset and foreset regions and their related morphology, a diagnostic feature that could not be appreciated using solely 2D, even very high‐resolution, seismic profiles. In addition, the comparison of bathymetric surveys gathered with one‐year lapses shows the migration of subaqueous sand dunes on the clinothem topset, the formation of ephemeral cut‐and‐fill features at the rollover point (few m below mean sea level), the presence of collapse depressions derived by sagging of sediments and fluid expulsion (possibly induced by storm waves) on the foreset, and splays of sand likely reflecting gravity flows on the lower foreset. Though the modern Po Delta is anthropogenic in many respects, its subaqueous clinothem can be studied as a scale model for ancient clinothems that are less resolved geometrically and far less constrained chronologically.
A local maximum likelihood model of crop yield distributions
Authors: Wu Ximing , Zhang Yu Yvette
Published: December 2019

In this note, we propose a local maximum likelihood estimator for spatially‐dependent distributions. Our estimator adopts the Poisson regression approach for density ratio models and incorporates spatial smoothing via local regression. We also present a method of smoothing parameter selection. We illustrate this easy‐to‐implement estimator with an application to the estimation of corn yield distributions of Iowa counties. The usefulness of the approach is further demonstrated via an application to the estimation of crop insurance premium.
The influence of chemical reaction conditions upon poly(styrene‐methyl methacrylate‐acrylic acid) synthesis: Variations in nanoparticle size, colour and deposition methods
Authors: Fernandes Rui D. V. , Gomes Pedro , Zille Andrea , Souto António P.
Published: December 2019

Monodisperse latex nanospheres of poly(styrene‐methyl methacrylate‐acrylic acid) with different sizes were synthetised by soap‐free emulsion copolymerisation and applied onto polyamide 6,6 fabrics by two methods, ie, gravitational sedimentation and dip‐drawing. Different‐sized nanospheres were synthetised by varying temperature and stirring velocity as reaction parameters. Scanning electron microscopy and scanning transmission electron microscopy were used to evaluate nanosphere sizes and deposition structures. The results showed two different nanosphere structural arrangements on the fabric surface, a hexagonal packed centre structure in the even surfaces and a square arrangement in the out‐of‐plane surfaces. Different colours were observed according to particle size, namely, violet (ca. 170 nm), blue (ca. 190 nm), green (ca. 210 nm), yellow (ca. 230 nm) and red (ca. 250 nm). An iridescence effect was also observed, displaying different colours at different observation angles. By controlling the size of the nanospheres it was possible to obtain different, brilliant and iridescent colours. Using different nanosphere sizes it was possible to obtain different interplanar distances and to control the light scattering in the crystalline lattice planes, obtaining Bragg diffraction patterns.
Why considering sexual differences is necessary when studying encephalopathy of prematurity through rodent models
Authors: Le Dieu‐Lugon Bérénice , Dupré Nicolas , Legouez Lou , Leroux Philippe , Gonzalez Bruno J. , Marret Stéphane , Leroux‐Nicollet Isabelle , Cleren Carine
Published: December 2019

Preterm birth is a high‐risk factor for the development of gray and white matter abnormalities, referred to as “encephalopathy of prematurity,” that may lead to life‐long motor, cognitive, and behavioral impairments. The prevalence and clinical outcomes of encephalopathy of prematurity differ between sexes, and elucidating the underlying biological basis has become a high‐priority challenge. Human studies are often limited to assessment of brain region volumes by MRI, which does not provide much information about the underlying mechanisms of lesions related to very preterm birth. However, models using KO mice or pharmacological manipulations in rodents allow relevant observations to help clarify the mechanisms of injury sustaining sex‐differential vulnerability. This review focuses on data obtained from mice aged P1–P5 or rats aged P3 when submitted to cerebral damage such as hypoxia‐ischemia, as their brain lesions share similarities with lesion patterns occurring in very preterm human brain, before 32 gestational weeks. We first report data on the mechanisms underlying the development of sexual brain dimorphism in rodent, focusing on the hippocampus. In the second part, we describe sex specificities of rodent models of encephalopathy of prematurity (RMEP), focusing on mechanisms underlying differences in hippocampal vulnerability. Finally, we discuss the relevance of these RMEP. Together, this review highlights the need to systematically search for potential effects of sex when studying the mechanisms underlying deficits in RMEP in order to design effective sex‐specific medical interventions in human preterms.
Additive manufactured 3Y‐TZP ceramics: Study of micromechanical behavior by nanoindentation and microscratch method
Authors: Li Wenli , Nie Jianbin , Li Maoshan , Liu Weiwei , Chen Yao , Xing Zhanwen
Published: December 2019

The mechanical property of advanced ceramics by additive manufacturing through layer‐by‐layer processing and subsequent sintering has been employed as a key basis for optimizing the processing and developing future application. 3Y‐TZP ceramic was fabricated by stereolithography‐based additive manufacturing, and the mechanical properties were investigated by nanoindentation and microscratch testing. The microscopic mechanism and evolution of surface deformation and damage induced by scratching were revealed by scanning electron microscopy and surface interferometer. Results showed that the nanoindentation hardness and elastic modulus were comparable to those of conventional process. With the increase in the applied normal load, the scratch‐induced damage followed three sequential stages, that is, plastic plowing, microcracking and surface spalling. The magnitude of the microcracks nucleated during scratching depended on the applied normal load. Concerning the homogeneity and integrity with the sintered parts without delaminated cracks and pores, the evolution of surface damage was discussed in different stages. It was concluded that the layer‐by‐layer process did not affect the characteristic of microcracking evolution.
Development and characterization of inks for screen printing of glass solders for SOFCs
Authors: Dittrich Svenja , Reitz Elisabeth , Schell Karl Günter , Bucharsky Ethel Claudia , Hoffmann Michael J.
Published: December 2019

Glass ceramics are supposed to produce stable sealants between ceramic electrolyte and ferritic steel in planar SOFC stacks. The screen printing method is a suitable industrial process in order to produce layers with tailored height and width reproducibly. An appropriate suspension was developed for this application and improved by adjusting the additive composition. This study investigates the rheological behavior of screen printing inks and the corresponding topography of the printed layers. Rotary measurements were carried out to analyse the impact of shear rates on viscosity showing shear thinning behavior. In addition, oscillatory rheometry is performed to gain information about the viscoelastic properties of the slurries and to understand the internal structure of the developed inks. The viscoelasticity and the recovery behavior after shear loading are crucial for the topography of printed films. The principal investigations are executed on solvent‐based suspensions, whereby the knowledge gained is used for a transfer to water‐based systems allowing a more environmentally friendly handling.
The effectiveness of adaptive versus non‐adaptive learning with digital educational games
Authors: Vanbecelaere Stefanie , Van den Berghe Katrien , Cornillie Frederik , Sasanguie Delphine , Reynvoet Bert , Depaepe Fien
Published: December 2019

For the training of academic skills, digital educational games with integrated adaptivity are promising. Adaptive games are considered superior to non‐adaptive games, because they constantly assess children's performance, and accordingly adapt the difficulty of the tasks corresponding to the children's individual level. However, empirical evidence with regard to the effectivity of adaptive compared to non‐adaptive games is limited. A study was conducted with 191 children from the third year of Kinder garten who were enrolled in one of three conditions, that is, playing an adaptive version of the reading game (RG), a non‐adaptive version of the RG or training with pen‐and‐paper exercises. In all three conditions, children trained emergent reading (phonological awareness and letter knowledge) once a week for 30 min over a period of 5 weeks. Children's performance on cognitive (phonological awareness, letter knowledge, reading fluency) and non‐cognitive (motivation, self‐concept) factors was assessed. Results revealed a significant improvement in phonological awareness and letter knowledge in all conditions. However, no differences between the conditions were observed with respect to children's improvement on phonological awareness and letter knowledge or on their post‐test scores for reading fluency. With regard to motivation and self‐concept, again, no differences in these non‐cognitive factors were observed across conditions.
Effective removal of organophosphorus pesticide residues in tomatoes using natural extracts
Authors: Venkatachalapathy Renuka , Anoop Chandra Indira Ramachandran , Das Somnath , Vajiha Aafrin Basheer , Lalitha Priya Udhyasooriyan , Peter Maria Jenita , Karthikeyan Senthilnathan , Sukumar Muthusamy
Published: December 2019

The reduction efficiency of the extracts of Albizia amara and Acacia concinna against most widely used organophosphorus pesticides such as dimethoate, malathion, dichlorvos, and chlorpyrifos on tomato samples was investigated. The pesticide residues were quantified by gas chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (GC‐MS/MS). The maximum reduction efficiency was achieved from the samples treated with 8% A. concinna extract on dichlorvos (87%) and dimethoate (84%) followed by 6% A. amara on malathion (83%) and chlorpyrifos (64%) and comparatively higher than water wash and it shows the reduction of only 14–38% for 15 min. The sensorial property and lycopene content of tomato samples were assessed and these plant extracts showed no significant effects on color, texture, and lycopene content after washing treatment. These phytochemical rich plant extracts exhibited greater reduction ability against pesticide residues without changing the nutritional and sensorial characteristics of the treated tomato samples. The current study may be a platform for formulating a cost‐effective, safe, and natural cleanser for the effective removal of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables.

Practical applications

Presence of multiple pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables is a worldwide problem in food safety. Particularly, tomatoes are most often consumed without cooking, hence it is essential to estimate the pesticide reduction efficiency of the common washing procedure. Washing of tomatoes with chemical solutions to remove pesticide residues leads to additional chemical exposure. Therefore, the reduction efficiency of natural plant extracts such as Albizia amara and Acacia concinna on four pesticides (dimethoate, malathion, dichlorvos, and chlorpyrifos) was studied. The method for the analysis of pesticide using GC‐MS/MS was validated according to SANTE 11813/2017 to detect the pesticide residues in tomatoes after each washing treatment. This study showed that the natural extracts could be a good tool for the removal of multipesticide residues effectively from the tomatoes without compromising its nutritional and sensory properties. The pesticide decontamination with plant extracts was effective, economic and safe for household and commercial applications.
Mechanism on releasing and solubilizing of fish bone calcium during nano‐milling
Authors: Li Jinling , Yin Tao , Xiong Shanbai , Huang Qilin , You Juan , Hu Yang , Liu Ru , Li YaJie
Published: December 2019

Fish bone, predominately composited by collagen and hydroxyapatite (HAP), is a natural calcium resource that possesses the potential to be used as functional ingredient in food application. In this study, five HAP suspensions with either collagen or amino acids were applied to simulate the releasing and solubilizing of fish bone calcium during nano‐milling. As milling time was increased, particle sizes from five suspensions gradually decreased and pH increased. The sizes and pH kept constant as the time was extended beyond 60 min (p < .05). Initial soluble calcium content of HAP suspension fluctuated with milling time and was not increased after milling for 240 min. However, soluble calcium contents of HAP suspensions with collagen and amino acids continuously increased and reached the highest values of 106.70 and 147.34–645.68 μg/g, respectively. After nano‐milling, crystallinity of HAP particles declined and calcium element on the surface decreased and contents of free amino acid and peptides from fish bone suspension significantly increased (p < .05). Our results suggested that the releasing and solubilizing of fish bone calcium during nano‐milling was mainly attributed to alterations on size and crystalline structure of HAP, and the chelating effects by amino acids and peptides.

Practical Applications

Fish bone is the main solid waste from fish processing industry. When properly processed, it possesses the potential to be used as food grade calcium additive. It has been reported that grittiness of fish bone could be neglected after reducing its particle to nanoscale. Furthermore, soluble calcium content was significantly increased, which might be benefit for improving calcium bioavailability of fish bone. However, there is no report regarding the release of calcium from fish bone during nano‐milling process so far. This research will provide scientific foundation for improving solubility of calcium from various natural resources in a physical method.
Complete metamorphic cycle and long‐lived anatexis in the c. 2.1 Ga Mistinibi Complex, Canada
Authors: Godet Antoine , Guilmette Carl , Labrousse Loic , Davis Donald W. , Smit Matthijs A. , Cutts Jamie A. , Vanier Marc‐Antoine , Lafrance Isabelle , Charette Benoit
Published: December 2019

Secular changes in the architecture, thermal state, and metamorphic style of global orogens are thought to have occurred since the Archean; however, despite widespread research, the driving mechanisms for such changes remain unclear. The Paleoproterozoic may prove to be a key era for investigating secular changes in global orogens, as it marks the earliest stage of an eon that saw the onset of modern‐style global tectonics. The 2.1 Ga granulite‐facies Mistinibi‐Raude Domain (MRD), located in the Southeastern Churchill Province, Canada, offers a rare exposure of Paleoproterozoic high metamorphic grade supracrustal sequences (Mistinibi Complex, MC). Rocks from this domain were subjected to petrochronological investigations to establish P–T–t–X evolutions and to provide first order thermal state, burial and exhumation rates, and metamorphic gradients for the transient Paleoproterozoic times. To obtain comprehensive insight into the P–T–t–X evolution of the MRD, we used multi‐method geochronology—Lu–Hf on garnet and U–Pb on zircon and monazite—integrated with detailed petrography, trace element chemistry, and phase equilibria modelling. Despite the extensive use of zircon and monazite as geochronometers, their behaviour in anatectic conditions is complex, leading to substantial ambiguity in interpreting the timing of prograde metamorphism. Our results indicate a clockwise metamorphic path involving significant melt extraction from the metasedimentary rocks, followed by cooling from >815°C to ~770°C at ~0.8 GPa. The timing of prograde burial and cooling from supra‐ to subsolidus conditions is constrained through garnet, monazite, and zircon petrochronology at 2,150–2,120 Ma and at 2,070–2,080 Ma, respectively. These results highlight long‐lived residence of the rocks at mid‐crustal supra‐solidus conditions (55–70 Ma), with preserved prograde and retrograde supra‐solidus monazite and zircon. The rocks record extremely slow burial rates (0.25–0.30 km/Ma) along a high metamorphic gradient (900–1,000°C/GPa), which appears symptomatic of Paleoproterozoic orogens. The MC did not record any significant metamorphism after 2,067 Ma, despite having collided with terranes that record high‐grade metamorphism during the major 1.9–1.8 Ga Trans‐Hudson orogeny. The MC would therefore represent a remnant of a local early Paleoproterozoic metamorphic infrastructure, later preserved as superstructure in the large hot Trans‐Hudson orogen.
Gulper, ripper and scrapper: anatomy of the neck in three species of vultures
Authors: Böhmer Christine , Prevoteau Jocerand , Duriez Olivier , Abourachid Anick
Published: December 2019

The head−neck system of birds is a highly complex structure that performs a variety of demanding and competing tasks. Morphofunctional adaptations to feeding specializations have previously been identified in the head and neck, but performance is also influenced by other factors such as its phylogenetic history. In order to minimize the effects of this factor, we here analyzed the anatomy of three closely related vultures that distinctly differ in feeding strategy. Vultures, as obligate scavengers, have occupied a special ecological niche by exclusively feeding on carrion. However, competition among sympatric vultures led to ecological differences such as preference of certain types of food from a carcass. Via comparative dissections we systematically described the craniocervical anatomy in the Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), the Cinereous vulture (Aegypius monachus) and the Hooded vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus) that exploit the same food resources in different ways. Our results revealed differences in the number of cervical vertebrae, in the morphology of the atlas−axis complex as well as in the neck musculature despite overall similarities in the musculoskeletal system. Gulpers, rippers and scrappers adopt specific postures while feeding from a carcass, but the cervical vertebral column is indispensable to position the head during all kinds of behavior. The great range of demands may explain the conservation of the overall muscle topography of the neck across the studied taxa.
Carapace scute pattern anomalies in the loggerhead turtle: are they indicative of hatchling’s survival probability?
Authors: Maffucci F. , Pace A. , Affuso A. , Ciampa M. , Treglia G. , Pignalosa A. , Hochscheid S.
Published: December 2019

The carapacial scute pattern is a conserved trait in sea turtles that provides taxonomic information, although hatchlings with aberrant scute numbers are commonly described in all extant species. These anomalies have been associated with reduced individual fitness, but very little is known about their occurrence in the juvenile and adult portion of the population. Here, we compared the frequencies of major non‐modal scute patterns (i.e. number of vertebral/coastal scutes ≠ 5, MNMSP) in hatchling, juvenile and adult loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) from the Central Tyrrhenian Sea. 20.5% of the analysed hatchlings exhibited MNMSP (N = 1047, range 0–52%). These individuals were significantly lighter than modals, but no other morphological difference was observed. Hatchlings from relocated nests (N = 241) had a lower rate of scute variation compared to those from natural nests (N = 806, MNMSP frequencies 10.37 and 23.57% respectively). The proportion of MNMSP decreased in early juveniles (12.1%, N = 149, SCLst < 41 cm) and even further in late juveniles/adults (4.8%, N = 124, SCLst > 41 cm). These results are coherent with those from previous studies and suggest that individuals with modal scute pattern may have a greater survival rate. However, selection against abnormal scute patterns may not occur within the first few days of life, as previously suggested, but it is probably a much slower process that may require several years. It is unlikely that alterations of the scute pattern affect survival directly; they may be a phenotypic expression of underlying morphological or physiological anomalies that stem from environmental stressors similar to those causing scute variations during embryonic development.