bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of scale effect and injection speed on morphology and structure of the microinjection molded isotactic polypropylene parts
Authors: Wang Lixia , Jiang Lin , Li Shuang , Zhang Yang , Wang Dongfang , Li Qian , Shen Changyu
Published: March 2020

The morphology and microstructure as well as their forming mechanism of the parts in microinjection molding process are critical. In this work, the coupling effect of scale factor and injection speed on the morphology of the microparts was systematically investigated. Neat isotactic polypropylene parts with thicknesses of 1 mm, 200 μm, and 100 μm were molded at different injection speeds. Polarized light microscope and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction were used to inspect the microstructures along the sample thickness. In this way, three kinds of typical morphology were observed in the parts, including typical skin‐core structure for the parts with the thickness of 1 mm, noncore shear layer structure for the parts with the thickness of 200 μm, and special skin‐core structure with large fraction of columnar crystal for the parts with the thickness of 100 μm. Most interestingly, it was intuitively and straightforward found that the wall slip occurs when the injection speed exceeds a certain value. Specifically, opposite morphological change trend can be obtained when the parts were molded at different levels of injection speeds. Based on these experimental observations, the formation mechanism was proposed to interpret the morphological evolution. Our work provides a new insight for better understanding the morphology evolution mechanism for microinjection molding parts.
Preparation of poly(tert‐butyl acrylate)‐poly(acrylic acid) amphiphilic copolymers via radiation‐induced reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer mediated polymerization of tert‐butyl acrylate
Authors: Sütekin Semiha Duygu , Güven Olgun
Published: March 2020

Poly(tert‐butyl acrylate) (PtBA) is a versatile hydrophobic macromolecule usually preferred in the development of new materials for a host of applications. PtBA homopolymers with well‐defined structure and controlled molecular weight in a wide range were successfully synthesized via radiation‐induced reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization in the presence of a trithiocarbonate type RAFT agent. The polymerization of tBA was performed under 60Co γ‐irradiation in the presence of 2‐(dodecylthiocarbonothioylthio)‐2‐methylpropionic acid (DDMAT) as the RAFT agent in toluene at room temperature with three [tBA]/[DDMAT] ratios (400, 600 and 1000) and different irradiation times. Radiation‐induced polymerization of tBA displayed controlled free radical polymerization characteristics: a narrow molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn ~ 1.1), pseudo first order kinetics and controlled molecular weights. The system followed the RAFT polymerization mechanism even at very low amounts of RAFT agent ([tBA]/[DDMAT] = 1000), and molecular weights up to 113 900 with narrow dispersity (Ð =1.06) were obtained. PtBA was further hydrolysed into different amphiphilic PtBA‐co‐poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) copolymers by low (27.5%) and high (77.3%) degrees of hydrolysis. The pH sensitivity of the two copolymers was investigated by dynamic light scattering at pH 2 and pH 9 (above and below the pKa value of PAA) and their hydrodynamic diameters and zeta potential values were determined. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Elucidating the relationship between borderline personality disorder and intimate partner violence
Authors: Munro Olivia E. , Sellbom Martin
Published: March 2020

This study examined the established association between borderline personality disorder (BPD) and intimate partner violence (IPV). More specifically, it compared the DSM‐5 traditional categorical personality disorder (PD) model with the DSM‐5 Alternative Model of PD (AMPD) operationalizations of BPD in their relative associations with IPV. The effects of gender, as well as the associations between BPD and different forms of IPV were also considered. Additionally, we investigated the specific BPD‐relevant AMPD personality traits that influence the BPD‐IPV association. The study sample were 250 community‐dwelling men and women recruited through an established crowdsourcing platform. Results revealed that both the ‘traditional’ and AMPD operationalizations of BPD were approximately equally associated with IPV perpetration, although the traditional BPD operationalization demonstrated some minor advantages in this regard. The AMPD trait facets of hostility (negative affectivity), suspiciousness (negative affectivity) and risk taking (disinhibition) were most strongly associated with IPV perpetration for the total sample, and additional negative affectivity trait facets were also associated with IPV for men only. Implications for these findings are discussed. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimating sorption of monovalent acidic herbicides at different pH levels using a single sorption coefficient
Authors: Spadotto Claudio A , Locke Martin A , Bingner Ronald L , Mingoti Rafael
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Monovalent acidic pesticide sorption can be determined for any soil pH if the dissociation constant of the compound is known, and sorption coefficients are available for at least two different pH values, measured in a wide enough range to enable estimating both neutral and anionic form coefficients. Sorption estimates have also been made from a single sorption coefficient available, assuming a non‐compound specific value of the anionic form sorption coefficient or considering a generic ratio between sorption coefficients of the two forms. A compound‐specific procedure for adjustment of parameters of the equation for estimating sorption of monovalent acidic herbicides at different pH levels, from a single sorption coefficient, is proposed and evaluated.

RESULTS

The quality of fits was good for sorption of all three herbicides studied, especially for 2,4‐D and flumetsulam at pH above 5, even for diverse soils and experimental procedures and conditions. The best fits resulted in the following ratios of theoretical maximum organic‐carbon sorption coefficients for neutral and anionic forms (Kocn’:Koca’): 440:1 for 2,4‐D; 132:1 for flumetsulam; and 55:1 for sulfentrazone.

CONCLUSION

The ratios of theoretical maximum sorption coefficients for neutral and anionic forms (Kocn’:Koca’) are compound‐specific, thus this procedure should also be applied to pH‐sorption datasets for other acidic pesticides to provide the respective ratio between the theoretical maximum sorption coefficients, instead of using generic assigned values. More calibration research is recommended and validation of this approach is required to demonstrate applicability of the method. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Errors in femoral anteversion, femoral offset, and vertical offset following robot‐assisted total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Hsieh Chih‐Ming , Howell Stephen M. , Hull Maury L.
Published: March 2020

The objectives were to determine errors in femoral anteversion (FA), femoral offset (FO), and vertical offset (VO) with robot‐assisted total hip arthroplasty (THA) and how consistently these errors are within clinically desirable limits of ±5° and ±5 mm. After preoperative planning, robot‐assisted THAs were performed on twelve cadaveric specimens. The error between achieved and planned component placements was used to determine bias (mean error) and precision (SD of error). The percent of the population within clinically desirable limits was determined. Bias of 1.5° and 2.7 mm occurred for FA and VO, respectively. Precision was 1.2° for FA and better than 1.5 mm for FO and VO. The percent of population within clinically desirable limits was at least 95% for FA and at least 99% for FO. With limits of ±7 mm, at least 95% of the population was within these limits for VO. Robot‐assisted THA may improve clinical outcomes.
Synthesis of the Elusive bis(4‐carboxyphenylimino)acenaphthene Ligand and of its Palladium Dichloride Complex
Authors: Ferretti Francesco , Barraco Edoardo , Macchi Piero , Ragaini Fabio
Published: March 2020

The title bis‐imine appears to be ideally suited to be employed in the preparation of MOFs and other advanced materials, but its synthesis has not been reported in the literature. The solution to the problems that likely originated this and the crystal structure of a palladium complex are reported.
Ultrasmall Ag Clusters Modified W18O49 Ultrathin Nanowires for Sensitive Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Detection
Authors: Ye Yuting , Bai Hua , Liu Wei , Li Yahui , Yu Mingzhou , Li Junfang , Xi Guangcheng
Published: March 2020

Though plasmonic Au and Ag nanocrystals are predicted as the best substrate materials for surface enhacned Raman spectrum (SERS), realization of their large‐scale applications is hindered by the high cost. How to reduce the amount of noble‐metals and achive excellent SERS enhancement factor is an urgent issue to be solved. Herein, a general freeze‐drying‐assisted in‐situ reduction method for the large‐scale synthesis of ultrathin Ag clusters modified oxygen vacancies‐rich W18O49 ultrathin nanowires based on the intrinsic reducibility of the oxygen vacancies contained in crystal lattice has been reported, which realizes high density loading of Ag clusters without external reductants and protective additives. As a new SERS substrate, the ultrathin Ag clusters loaded W18O49 ultrathin nanowires not only save a lot of noble metals, but also show an unexpected ultrahigh SERS sensitivity, which EF is up to 4.3×107 and lowest detection limit for Rhodamine 6G is as high as 10−10 M. The Ag clusters modified W18O49 ultrathin nanowires also exhibit excellent universality for a series of highly concerned hazardous chemicals in practical detection, such as bisphenol A, melamine, 2,4‐dichlorophenol and butyl hydroxy anisd.
Complementary components and returns from coordination within ecosystems via standard setting
Authors: Miller Cameron D. , Toh Puay Khoon
Published: March 2020

Research Summary

When and how does a firm generate positive returns for itself as it coordinates technological development in ecosystems via standard setting? We depart from the convention of examining a firm's disclosed standard essential patents (SEPs), to instead focus on its nondisclosed complementary components. Using data from the information and communication technology industry from 1988 to 2010, we demonstrate that a firm that discloses SEPs generates higher returns when it has more nondisclosed complementary components, especially when they are firm‐specific. We further demonstrate the mechanism by showing at a component level that disclosure raises the value of nondisclosed complementary components. Findings suggest that adopting a systemic perspective over the firm's entire portfolio to include its complementary components provides a more comprehensive understanding of returns from coordination within ecosystems.

Managerial Summary

Compatibility standards provide the blue print behind the core technological platform in many ecosystems. During the standard setting process, firms disclose their ownership of intellectual property essential for the standard to function (SEPs). We study when such disclosures benefit the firm by examining the change in firms' equity market valuations. We find that firms generate positive returns when they own nondisclosed components that are complementary to their disclosed SEPs. We also find that the nondisclosed complementary components increase in value after the disclosure of SEPs. Our findings point to how managers can leverage standard setting to create and capture value in their technology portfolio beyond the licensing of SEPs.
Mass Cytometry and Single‐Cell RNA‐seq Profiling of the Heterogeneity in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Interacting with Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Ha My Kieu , Kwon Sook Jin , Choi Jang‐Sik , Nguyen Nguyen Thanh , Song Jaewoo , Lee Yangsoon , Kim Young‐Eun , Shin Incheol , Nam Jin‐Wu , Yoon Tae Hyun
Published: March 2020

Understanding the interactions between nanoparticles (NPs) and human immune cells is necessary for justifying their utilization in consumer products and biomedical applications. However, conventional assays may be insufficient in describing the complexity and heterogeneity of cell–NP interactions. Herein, mass cytometry and single‐cell RNA‐sequencing (scRNA‐seq) are complementarily used to investigate the heterogeneous interactions between silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and primary immune cells. Mass cytometry reveals the heterogeneous biodistribution of the positively charged polyethylenimine‐coated AgNPs in various cell types and finds that monocytes and B cells have higher association with the AgNPs than other populations. scRNA‐seq data of these two cell types demonstrate that each type has distinct responses to AgNP treatment: NRF2‐mediated oxidative stress is confined to B cells, whereas monocytes show Fcγ‐mediated phagocytosis. Besides the between‐population heterogeneity, analysis of single‐cell dose–response relationships further reveals within‐population diversity for the B cells and naïve CD4+ T cells. Distinct subsets having different levels of cellular responses with respect to their cellular AgNP doses are found. This study demonstrates that the complementary use of mass cytometry and scRNA‐seq is helpful for gaining in‐depth knowledge on the heterogeneous interactions between immune cells and NPs and can be incorporated into future toxicity assessments of nanomaterials.
Implantable, Degradable, Therapeutic Terahertz Metamaterial Devices
Authors: Sun Long , Zhou Zhitao , Zhong Junjie , Shi Zhifeng , Mao Ying , Li Hua , Cao Juncheng , Tao Tiger H.
Published: March 2020

Metamaterial (MM) sensors and devices, usually consisting of artificially structured composite materials with engineered responses that are mainly determined by the unit structure rather than the bulk properties or composition, offer new functionalities not readily available in nature. A set of implantable and resorbable therapeutic MM devices at terahertz (THz) frequencies are designed and fabricated by patterning magnesium split ring resonators on drug‐loaded silk protein substrates with controllable device degradation and drug release rates. To demonstrate proof‐of‐concept, a set of silk‐based, antibiotics‐loaded MM devices, which can serve as degradable antibacterial skin patches with capabilities to monitor drug‐release in real time are fabricated. The extent of drug release, which correlates with the degradation of the MM skin patch, can be monitored by analyzing the resonant responses in reflection during degradation using a portable THz camera. Animal experiments are performed to demonstrate the in vivo degradation process and the efficacy of the devices for antibacterial treatment. Thus, the implantable and resorbable therapeutic MM devices do not need to be retrieved once implanted, providing an appealing alternative for in‐vivo sensing and in situ treatment applications.
Controlled Synthesis of Ag2Te@Ag2S Core–Shell Quantum Dots with Enhanced and Tunable Fluorescence in the Second Near‐Infrared Window
Authors: Zhang Yejun , Yang Hongchao , An Xinyi , Wang Zan , Yang Xiaohu , Yu Mengxuan , Zhang Rong , Sun Ziqiang , Wang Qiangbin
Published: March 2020

Fluorescence in the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II, 900–1700 nm) has drawn great interest for bioimaging, owing to its high tissue penetration depth and high spatiotemporal resolution. NIR‐II fluorophores with high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) and stability along with high biocompatibility are urgently pursued. In this work, a Ag‐rich Ag2Te quantum dots (QDs) surface with sulfur source is successfully engineered to prepare a larger bandgap of Ag2S shell to passivate the Ag2Te core via a facile colloidal route, which greatly enhances the PLQY of Ag2Te QDs and significantly improves the stability of Ag2Te QDs. This strategy works well with different sized core Ag2Te QDs so that the NIR‐II PL can be tuned in a wide range. In vivo imaging using the as‐prepared Ag2Te@Ag2S QDs presents much higher spatial resolution images of organs and vascular structures as compared with the same dose of Ag2Te nanoprobes administrated, suggesting the success of the core–shell synthetic strategy and the potential biomedical applications of core–shell NIR‐II nanoprobes.
Effect of Hydrothermal Treatment of Depigmented Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) on Cecal Fermentation in Rats
Authors: Han Kyu‐Ho , Jibiki Takeshi , Fukushima Michihiro
Published: March 2020

Raw depigmented turmeric powder (TP) and hydrothermally treated TP (HT‐TP) contain non‐digestible saccharides with fiber and RS contents of 53.3% and 39.9%, respectively. Starch granules in TP and HT‐TP are observed under a petrographic microscope. The native and partly digested starch granules hydrolyzed by digestive enzymes, are also observed under SEM. In an animal study, cecal total SCFA concentration in rats fed 10% TP diet followed by 10% HT‐TP diet is (p < 0.05) higher than the control diet, while acetate and n‐butyrate concentrations in 10% HT‐TP diet are (p < 0.05) lower than in the 10% TP diet, which is still higher than the control diet. These data indicate that starch in HT‐TP is resistant to gelatinization and/or enzymatic digestion; thus, HT‐TP may be a useful food material conducive for increasing intestinal fermentation.
They Told Me My Name: Developing a Deaf Identity
Authors: Mauldin Laura , Fannon Tara
Published: March 2020

This article examines the process of deaf people coming to identify as culturally Deaf—a distinction typically made in the literature as an identity belonging to those who use sign language to communicate—and how this identity process co‐occurs with other social identities, namely sexuality and race. Through pairing Goffman's work with perspectives from Feminist Disability Studies, we extend the sociological literature on both identity and disability. To do so, we analyze qualitative data collected through narrative interviews with five Deaf, gay and lesbian individuals with different racial backgrounds. Our analysis surfaces deaf people's encounters with one another and how, relatedly, becoming Deaf is shaped by Goffman's concepts of affiliation and obtrusiveness. For example, we show how shifting affiliations occur when transitioning into a minority (e.g., Deaf) culture, through interactions that demand managing the obtrusiveness of multiple intersecting, potentially discrediting, statuses. Our article also reveals a bidirectional relationship between affiliation and obtrusiveness.
The identity, typification and nomenclature of three Linnaean names referable to Leucas (Lamiaceae) from India
Authors: Sunojkumar Purayidathkandy
Published: March 2020

The species of Lamiaceae described in 1753 by Linnaeus as Phlomis zeylanica L. (= Leucas zeylanica (L.) R.Br.) and Phlomis indica L. (= Leucas indica (L.) R.Br.) are distinct. The neotype designated for Phlomis indica L. belongs to a different taxon, hence a specimen from the Linnaean Herbarium (LINN) is redesignated as neotype. Leucas lavandulifolia Sm. is the legitimate name for the Linnaean species Leonurus indicus L. The south Indian endemic variety Leucas lavandulifolia var. decipiens (Hook.f.) Chandrab. & S.R.Sriniv. is neotypified. A key to the four taxa is provided.
Chinese multinationals on the New Silk Route: Managing political risk by branding the nation
Authors: Zhang Yan , Tsang Denise , Fuschi David L.
Published: March 2020

Though Chinese multinational enterprises (CMNEs) have brought investment and opportunities to countries along the Belt and Road Initiative, there has been scepticism regarding the content and context of their investment. On the one hand, infrastructural development contributes to GDP formation and enhances the efficiency of productive inputs where international trade enhances technology and export development, which jointly provides a path to economic growth. On the other hand, critical issues such as debt sustainability and national sovereignty among countries that have gone through the decolonization process mean that CMNEs need to grasp the implication of political risk when investing. This article focuses on South and Southeast Asia, where China has historical socio‐economic relationship, and proposes a nation branding model combining tradition and modernity which can be the way forward for CMNEs to mitigate political risk in relation to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) investment. Nation branding of BRI could be seen as a continuity of China's unfinished business in globalization that has preceded the modern polity; nevertheless, there is a need to communicate a coherent and authentic message that reflects the reality of business operations.
S-duality and the double copy
Authors: Alawadhi Rashid , Berman David S. , Spence Bill , Veiga David Peinador
Published: March 2020

Abstract

The double copy formalism provides an intriguing connection between gauge theories and gravity. It was first demonstrated in the perturbative context of scattering amplitudes but recently the formalism has been applied to exact classical solutions in gauge theories such as the monopole and instanton. In this paper we will investigate how duality symmetries in the gauge theory double copy to gravity and relate these to solution generating transformations and the action of SL(2, ℝ) in general relativity.
Reductions of exceptional field theories
Authors: Berman David S. , Otsuki Ray
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Double Field Theory (DFT) and Exceptional Field Theory (EFT), collectively called ExFTs, have proven to be a remarkably powerful new framework for string and M-theory. Exceptional field theories were constructed on a case by case basis as often each EFT has its own idiosyncrasies. Intuitively though, an En − 1(n − 1) EFT must be contained in an En(n) ExFT. In this paper we propose a generalised Kaluza-Klein ansatz to relate different ExFTs. We then discuss in more detail the different aspects of the relationship between various ExFTs including the coordinates, section condition and (pseudo)-Lagrangian densities. For the E8(8) EFT we describe a generalisation of the Mukhi-Papageorgakis mechanism to relate the d = 3 topological term in the E8(8) EFT to a Yang-Mills action in the E7(7) EFT.
Universal 3d Cardy block and black hole entropy
Authors: Choi Sunjin , Hwang Chiung
Published: March 2020

Abstract

We discuss the Cardy limit of 3d supersymmetric partition functions which allow the factorization into the hemisphere indices: the generalized superconformal index, the refined topologically twisted index and the squashed sphere partition function. In the Cardy limit, the hemisphere index can be evaluated by the saddle point approximation where there exists a dominant saddle point contribution, which we call the Cardy block. The Cardy block turns out to be a simple but powerful object as it is a building block of other partition functions in the Cardy limit. The factorization to the Cardy block allows us to find universal relations among the partition functions, which we formulate as index theorems. Furthermore, if we consider a holographic 3d SCFT and its large N limit, those partition functions relate to various entropic quantities of the dual gravity theory in AdS4. As a result, our result provides the microscopic derivation of the universal relations among those entropic quantities of the gravity theory. We also discuss explicit examples, which confirm our general index theorems.
A remark on nonlocal Neumann conditions for the fractional Laplacian
Authors: Abatangelo Nicola
Published: March 2020

We show how nonlocal boundary conditions of Robin type can be encoded in the pointwise expression of the fractional operator. Notably, the fractional Laplacian of functions satisfying homogeneous nonlocal Neumann conditions can be expressed as a regional operator with a kernel having logarithmic behaviour at the boundary.
A features subtraction system for rotational parts based on manufacturing and metal removing concepts
Authors: Al-wswasi Mazin , Ivanov Atanas
Published: March 2020

Automatic feature recognition (AFR) techniques represent an essential tool that links computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided process planning (CAPP) systems. This is by converting low-level geometric entities of part design models created in CAD systems to manufacturing features which are used in CAPP. Whilst different AFR systems have been developed for the purpose of recognising final manufacturing features of a part, most of them do not solve features intersecting issues. The features intersecting is an unavoidable matter that occurs during the rough cutting cycle and forms intermediate manufacturing features. This paper presents a “features subtraction” methodology for solving manufacturing features intersection issues of rotational parts. The system takes the recognised external and internal manufacturing features from a smart interactive AFR (SI-AFR) system as an input. After seven steps of processing, it provides geometrical and topological information of intermediate and final features that can be used to automatically generate CAPP outputs, such as selecting machining process, sequence of operations, cutting tools and cutting conditions, and generating the G-code for machining the part. This has been written using C# coding, and several examples have been processed for this paper to validate the system.
Credit default swap spreads: market conditions, firm performance, and the impact of the 2007–2009 financial crisis
Authors: Fu Xiaoqing , Li Matthew C. , Molyneux Philip
Published: March 2020

We employ a multi-factor analysis from both a firm-specific (microeconomic) and market-specific (macroeconomic) perspective to examine the determinants of credit default swap (CDS) spreads in the USA, the UK and Japan between 2005 and 2012. We investigate both aggregate (cross-country) and individual market data so that a comparative analysis can be performed. Our results reveal that (i) in general, Tobin’s Q, stock market returns, and the risk-free interest rate possess significant explanatory power for CDS spreads; (ii) the relationship identified is found to exist in all three markets with varying strength; (iii) despite the added information flow, the 2007–2009 financial crisis did not shorten the persistence (adjustment speed) of CDS spreads to variations in our explanatory variables; and (iv) degree of firm leverage appears to have a significant influence on CDS spreads. These results are robust to various model specifications. Synthesizing our overall results, we maintain that to reap the benefits of using CDSs as a risk management tool, greater attention should be devoted to supporting a stable market (economic and financial) environment. This paper contributes to elucidate how firm performance and macroeconomic conditions play a significant role in explaining CDS spreads.
Autoimmune encephalitis as a differential diagnosis of schizophreniform psychosis: clinical symptomatology, pathophysiology, diagnostic approach, and therapeutic considerations
Authors: Endres Dominique , Leypoldt Frank , Bechter Karl , Hasan Alkomiet , Steiner Johann , Domschke Katharina , Wandinger Klaus-Peter , Falkai Peter , Arolt Volker , Stich Oliver , Rauer Sebastian , Prüss Harald , van Elst Ludger Tebartz
Published: March 2020

Primary schizophreniform psychoses are thought to be caused by complex gene–environment interactions. Secondary forms are based on a clearly identifiable organic cause, in terms of either an etiological or a relevant pathogenetic factor. The secondary or “symptomatic” forms of psychosis have reentered the focus stimulated by the discovery of autoantibody (Ab)-associated autoimmune encephalitides (AEs), such as anti-NMDA-R encephalitis, which can at least initially mimic variants of primary psychosis. These newly described secondary, immune-mediated schizophreniform psychoses typically present with the acute onset of polymorphic psychotic symptoms. Over the course of the disease, other neurological phenomena, such as epileptic seizures, movement disorders, or reduced levels of consciousness, usually arise. Typical clinical signs for AEs are the acute onset of paranoid hallucinatory symptoms, atypical polymorphic presentation, psychotic episodes in the context of previous AE, and additional neurological and medical symptoms such as catatonia, seizure, dyskinesia, and autonomic instability. Predominant psychotic courses of AEs have also been described casuistically. The term autoimmune psychosis (AP) was recently suggested for these patients. Paraclinical alterations that can be observed in patients with AE/AP are inflammatory cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pathologies, focal or generalized electroencephalographic slowing or epileptic activity, and/or suspicious “encephalitic” imaging findings. The antibody analyses in these patients include the testing of the most frequently found Abs against cell surface antigens (NMDA-R, CASPR2, LGI1, AMPA-R, GABAB-R), intracellular antigens (Hu, Ri, Yo, CV2/CRMP5, Ma2 [Ta], amphiphysin, GAD65), thyroid antigens (TG, TPO), and antinuclear Abs (ANA). Less frequent antineuronal Abs (e.g., against DPPX, GABAA-R, glycine-R, IgLON5) can be investigated in the second step when first step screening is negative and/or some specific clinical factors prevail. Beyond, tissue-based assays on brain slices of rodents may detect previously unknown antineuronal Abs in some cases. The detection of clinical and/or paraclinical pathologies (e.g., pleocytosis in CSF) in combination with antineuronal Abs and the exclusion of alternative causes may lead to the diagnosis of AE/AP and enable more causal therapeutic immunomodulatory opportunities.
Purchasing unpackaged food products
Authors: Marken Gesa Henriette , Hörisch Jacob
Published: March 2020

The food industry causes substantial environmental pressure through generating an increasing amount of plastic waste. This research deals with stores which address this issue, by offering unpackaged food products. As such concepts depend on the support of consumers, a quantitative survey among consumers is conducted. Building on norm activation theory, this paper investigates which individual factors support packaging free purchasing and what barriers hinder consumers to purchase unpackaged food products. Additionally, it is tested whether the perception of barriers towards purchasing unpackaged food products mediates the influence of pro-environmental personal norms on purchasing unpackaged food products. The main barriers identified include a lack of awareness of unpackaged food offerings as well as the restricted range of available unpackaged products. Additionally, the results show that pro-environmental personal norms foster purchasing of unpackaged food. However, this influence is not mediated by the perception of barriers towards purchasing unpackaged food products. Based on these findings, possible interventions are identified, such as in-store marketing, which increase the awareness about unpackaged food offerings, or educational campaigns, which sensitize consumers for the consequences of plastic waste.
Ion recognition properties of new pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamide bearing propeller-like pendant residues: multi-spectroscopic approach
Authors: Wagner-Wysiecka Ewa , Łukasik Natalia , Okuniewski Andrzej , Galiński Błażej
Published: March 2020

The synthesis and ion binding properties of new amide derived from propeller-like tris(2-pyridyl)amine and 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid chloride were described. Amide binds divalent metal cations: copper(II), nickel(II), zinc(II), and lead(II) in acetonitrile. In acetonitrile:water mixture (9:1 v/v) amide interacts only with copper(II) and nickel(II) cations forming complexes of 1:1 stoichiometry. It was found that the introduction of bulky, nitrogen donor atom bearing pendant groups can influence coordination mode of pyridine-2,6-dicarboxamides. The probable model of ligand-ion interactions is proposed on the basis of1H NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy.

Graphic abstract
Diversified spatial keyword search on RDF data
Authors: Cai Zhi , Kalamatianos Georgios , Fakas Georgios J. , Mamoulis Nikos , Papadias Dimitris
Published: March 2020

The abundance and ubiquity of RDF data (such as DBpedia and YAGO2) necessitate their effective and efficient retrieval. For this purpose, keyword search paradigms liberate users from understanding the RDF schema and the SPARQL query language. Popular RDF knowledge bases (e.g., YAGO2) also include spatial semantics that enable location-based search. In an earlier location-based keyword search paradigm, the user inputs a set of keywords, a query location, and a number of RDF spatial entities to be retrieved. The output entities should be geographically close to the query location and relevant to the query keywords. However, the results can be similar to each other, compromising query effectiveness. In view of this limitation, we integrate textual and spatial diversification into RDF spatial keyword search, facilitating the retrieval of entities with diverse characteristics and directions with respect to the query location. Since finding the optimal set of query results is NP-hard, we propose two approximate algorithms with guaranteed quality. Extensive empirical studies on two real datasets show that the algorithms only add insignificant overhead compared to non-diversified search, while returning results of high quality in practice (which is verified by a user evaluation study we conducted).
The Early and Middle Holocene Lithic Industries of Ifri n’Etsedda (Eastern Rif, Morocco)
Authors: Broich Manuel , Potì Alessandro , Linstädter Jörg , Gibaja Juan F. , Mazzucco Niccolò , Conesa Margarita Vadillo , Mikdad Abdeslam , Weniger Gerd-Christian
Published: March 2020

Archaeological research has been carried out in the Eastern Rif (Morocco) since 1995 by a collaborative Moroccan-German research team. A major topic of the project is the transition from hunting-gathering to food production and related cultural developments. Innovations such as pottery and domesticated species appeared around 7.6 ka calBP. The cultivation of cereals and pulses is evident at that time. Two of the most important sites in the area are Ifri Oudadane and Ifri n’Etsedda. Both provide Epipaleolithic as well as Neolithic deposits. While innovative technologies such as pottery production and cultivation indicate external influences, lithic artifacts demonstrate local technological and behavioral traditions. Therefore, the study of lithic industries is crucial to understanding the nature of cultural continuity and discontinuity between the hunting-gathering and agricultural populations in the Eastern Rif. Ifri n’Etsedda provides two distinct Epipaleolithic deposits and thus offers the opportunity to study possible changes throughout the Epipalaeolithic and relationship to the later Early Neolithic (ENC). In combination with the earlier phases of Early Neolithic assemblages (ENA, ENB) at Ifri Oudadane, we are now in a better position to understand the development of early-to-mid Holocene lithic technology in the Eastern Rif. We show that the lithic record of Ifri n’Etsedda does not indicate any significant change in raw material supply, blank production, and tool distribution from the Early Epipaleolithic to the Early Neolithic B. Therefore, we argue for behavioral continuity from the Epipaleolithic to the Neolithic period. In contrast, the assemblages of the Early Neolithic C show changes in lithic technology.
A posteriori error analysis and adaptive non-intrusive numerical schemes for systems of random conservation laws
Authors: Giesselmann Jan , Meyer Fabian , Rohde Christian
Published: March 2020

This article considers one-dimensional random systems of hyperbolic conservation laws. Existence and uniqueness of random entropy admissible solutions for initial value problems of conservation laws, which involve random initial data and random flux functions, are established. Based on these results an a posteriori error analysis for a numerical approximation of the random entropy solution is presented. For the stochastic discretization, a non-intrusive approach, namely the Stochastic Collocation method is used. The spatio-temporal discretization relies on the Runge–Kutta Discontinuous Galerkin method. The a posteriori estimator is derived using smooth reconstructions of the discrete solution. Combined with the relative entropy stability framework this yields computable error bounds for the entire space-stochastic discretization error. The estimator admits a splitting into a stochastic and a deterministic (space-time) part, allowing for a novel residual-based space-stochastic adaptive mesh refinement algorithm. The scaling properties of the residuals are investigated and the efficiency of the proposed adaptive algorithms is illustrated in various numerical examples.
Administration of the vasopressin analog desmopressin for the management of bleeding in rectal cancer patients: results of a phase I/II trial
Authors: Iseas Soledad , Roca Enrique L. , O’Connor Juan M. , Eleta Martin , Sanchez-Luceros Analia , Di Leo Daniela , Tinelli Marcelo , Fara Maria L. , Spitzer Eduardo , Demarco Ignacio A. , Ripoll Giselle V. , Pifano Marina , Garona Juan , Alonso Daniel F.
Published: March 2020

Purpose The vasopressin analog desmopressin (dDAVP) is known to increase plasma levels of hemostatic factors, and preclinical studies in colorectal cancer models have demonstrated that it hampers tumor vascularization and metastatic progression. We evaluated safety and preliminary efficacy of dDAVP in rectal cancer patients with bleeding, before receiving specific oncologic treatment with surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Methods Patients with rectal cancer having moderate or severe rectal bleeding were enrolled in an open-label, dose-finding trial. Intravenous infusions of dDAVP were administered during two consecutive days in doses from 0.25 to 2.0 µg/kg, using single or twice daily regimen. Bleeding was graded using a score based on the Chutkan scale and tumor perfusion was evaluated by dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. Results The trial accrued a total of 32 patients. Dose-limiting toxicity occurred in patients receiving 1 µg/kg or higher. The most prominent treatment-related severe adverse event was hyponatremia. Most patients receiving the maximum tolerated dose of 0.5 µg/kg showed at least a partial hemostatic response and 58% developed a complete response with absence of bleeding at day 4 and/or at the last follow-up at day 14. Tumor perfusion was decreased in two-thirds of patients after dDAVP treatment. Conclusions dDAVP appeared as a promising hemostatic agent in rectal cancer patients with bleeding. Randomized clinical trials to confirm its effectiveness are warranted.

Clinical trial registrationwww.clinicaltrials.gov NCT01623206
Optimizing soil nitrogen balance in a potato cropping system through legume intercropping
Authors: Nyawade Shadrack O. , Karanja Nancy N. , Gachene Charles K. K. , Gitari Harun I. , Schulte-Geldermann Elmar , Parker Monica
Published: March 2020

Negative nitrogen balance represents a major factor causing low potato yield in potato growing areas of Kenya while its excessive surplus poses a significant environmental concern. In order to synchronize this tradeoff, a field trial integrating potato (Solanum tuberosumL.) with lima bean (Phaseolus lunatusL.) and dolichos (Lablab purpureusL.) in intercropping system was conducted in the upper midland [1552 m above sea level (masl), lower highland (1894 masl) and upper highland (2552 masl)] agro-ecological zones of Kenya. Nitrogen gains from mineralization, fertilization, biological fixation, and outputs from biomass accumulation, leaching, volatilization and soil erosion were quantified using standard procedures. Soil N balance ranged from − 10.7 to − 18.1 kg N ha−1for sole potato, 4.1 to 6.6 kg N ha−1for intercropping and 2.9 to 22.3 kg N ha−1for sole legumes. The intermediate range of polyphenol and lignin contents in intercropping enhanced N mineralization with peak N release of 8 to 9 kg N ha−1matching with peak N uptake by potato (19.9 to 31.2 kg N ha−1). Nitrate was leached below the active root zone in sole potato cropping (4.2 to 46.6 kg N ha−1), a process that was diverged by the deep root systems of legume intercrops. These results suggest that legume intercropping can provide a means of balancing the nitrogen retained in the biomass and soil, thus offering a mechanism for optimizing the soil N balance in smallholder potato farming systems.
Do socio-demographic groups report different attitudes towards water resource management? Evidence from a Ghanaian case study
Authors: Okumah Murat , Ankomah-Hackman Priscilla , Yeboah Ata Senior
Published: March 2020

Understanding the influence of socio-demographic factors on attitudes towards water pollution mitigation measures could help provide good pointers in the design of effective water resources management policies. Yet, very few studies have examined this in the developing country context. Using quantitative methods to analyse survey data from Ghana, the main goal of the current study was to determine whether socio-demographic groups report different attitudes towards water resource management. Results show that females reported higher pro-environmental attitudes than men (and these differences were statistically significant). Additionally, the employed were found to have reported higher pro-environmental attitudes than students and the unemployed, however, we do not find evidence to support the influence of age and educational attainment. Notwithstanding the relatively limited sample, this work offers valuable insights into the different factors that could influence environmental attitudes. Further research is needed on how sociodemographic variables interact with other psychosocial factors to determine environmental attitudes. This could advance our understanding on how different social groups may respond to policies designed to promote pro-environmental behaviour and reduce water pollution.
Ethical Decision-Making in Zoonotic Disease Control
Authors: van Herten Joost , Buikstra Suzanne , Bovenkerk Bernice , Stassen Elsbeth
Published: March 2020

To tackle zoonotic disease threats, a One Health approach is currently commonplace and generally understood as an integrated effort of multiple disciplines to promote the health of humans, animals and the environment. To implement One Health strategies in zoonotic disease control, many countries set up early warning systems, in which human and veterinary health professionals cooperate. These systems, like the Dutch Zoonoses Structure, can be successful to detect emerging disease threats. However, these systems are not well equipped to handle moral dilemmas that can arise in zoonotic disease control, like the culling of healthy animals. This research studies the role of normative presuppositions of professionals involved in zoonotic disease control policies in the Netherlands. We found that these professionals in general adhered to a holistic view of the One Health concept, however, in practice an anthropocentric approach was dominant. Public health was identified as the trumping moral value, which reveals an inherent field of tension with the core of One Health thinking. The lack of ethical expertise in control systems for zoonotic diseases can lead to misconception of ethical principles, like the precautionary principle which is frequently evoked to justify disease control measures.
A Composite Phononic Crystal Design for Quasiparticle Lifetime Enhancement in Kinetic Inductance Detectors
Authors: Puurtinen T. A. , Rostem K. , de Visser P. J. , Maasilta I. J.
Published: March 2020

A nanoscale phononic crystal filter (reflector) is designed for a kinetic inductance detector where the reflection band is matched to the quasiparticle recombination phonons with the aim to increase quasiparticle lifetime in the superconducting resonator. The inductor is enclosed by a 1-μm-wide phononic crystal membrane section with two simple hole patterns that each contain a partial spectral gap for various high-frequency phonon modes. The phononic crystal is narrow enough for low-frequency thermal phonons to propagate unimpeded. With 3D phonon scattering simulation over a 40 dB attenuation in transmitted power is found for the crystal, which is estimated to give a lifetime enhancement of nearly two orders of magnitude.
Cross-Cultural Examination of Links between Parent–Adolescent Communication and Adolescent Psychological Problems in 12 Cultural Groups
Authors: Kapetanovic Sabina , Rothenberg W. Andrew , Lansford Jennifer E. , Bornstein Marc H. , Chang Lei , Deater-Deckard Kirby , Di Giunta Laura , Dodge Kenneth A. , Gurdal Sevtap , Malone Patrick S. , Oburu Paul , Pastorelli Concetta , Skinner Ann T. , Sorbring Emma , Steinberg Laurence , Tapanya Sombat , Uribe Tirado Liliana Maria , Yotanyamaneewong Saengduean , Peña Alampay Liane , Al-Hassan Suha M. , Bacchini Dario
Published: March 2020

Internalizing and externalizing problems increase during adolescence. However, these problems may be mitigated by adequate parenting, including effective parent–adolescent communication. The ways in which parent-driven (i.e., parent behavior control and solicitation) and adolescent-driven (i.e., disclosure and secrecy) communication efforts are linked to adolescent psychological problems universally and cross-culturally is a question that needs more empirical investigation. The current study used a sample of 1087 adolescents (M = 13.19 years, SD = 0.90, 50% girls) from 12 cultural groups in nine countries including China, Colombia, Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Philippines, Sweden, Thailand, and the United States to test the cultural moderation of links between parent solicitation, parent behavior control, adolescent disclosure, and adolescent secrecy with adolescent internalizing and externalizing problems. The results indicate that adolescent-driven communication, and secrecy in particular, is intertwined with adolescents’ externalizing problems across all cultures, and intertwined with internalizing problems in specific cultural contexts. Moreover, parent-driven communication efforts were predicted by adolescent disclosure in all cultures. Overall, the findings suggest that adolescent-driven communication efforts, and adolescent secrecy in particular, are important predictors of adolescent psychological problems as well as facilitators of parent–adolescent communication.