bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using canonical correlation analysis to produce dynamically based and highly efficient statistical observation operators
Authors: Jansen Eric , Pimentel Sam , Tse Wang-Hung , Denaxa Dimitra , Korres Gerasimos , Mirouze Isabelle , Storto Andrea
Published: August 2019

Abstract. Observation operators (OOs) are a central component of any data assimilation system. As they project the state variables of a numerical model into the space of the observations, they also provide an ideal opportunity to correct for effects that are not described or are insufficiently described by the model. In such cases a dynamical OO, an OO that interfaces to a secondary and more specialised model, often provides the best results. However, given the large number of observations to be assimilated in a typical atmospheric or oceanographic model, the computational resources needed for using a fully dynamical OO mean that this option is usually not feasible. This paper presents a method, based on canonical correlation analysis (CCA), that can be used to generate highly efficient statistical OOs that are based on a dynamical model. These OOs can provide an approximation to the dynamical model at a fraction of the computational cost. One possible application of such an OO is the modelling of the diurnal cycle of sea surface temperature (SST) in ocean general circulation models (OGCMs). Satellites that measure SST measure the temperature of the thin uppermost layer of the ocean. This layer is strongly affected by atmospheric conditions, and its temperature can differ significantly from the water below. This causes a discrepancy between the SST measurements and the upper layer of the OGCM, which typically has a thickness of around 1 m. The CCA OO method is used to parameterise the diurnal cycle of SST. The CCA OO is based on an input dataset from the General Ocean Turbulence Model (GOTM), a high-resolution water column model that has been specifically tuned for this purpose. The parameterisations of the CCA OO are found to be in good agreement with the results from the GOTM and improve upon existing parameterisations, showing the potential of this method for use in data assimilation systems.
Extrusion dynamics of deepwater volcanoes revealed by 3-D seismic data
Authors: Sun Qiliang , Jackson Christopher A.-L. , Magee Craig , Mitchell Samuel J. , Xie Xinong
Published: August 2019

Abstract. Submarine volcanism accounts for ca. 75 % of the Earth's volcanic activity.
Yet difficulties with imaging their exteriors and interiors mean that the
extrusion dynamics and erupted volumes of deepwater volcanoes remain poorly
understood. Here, we use high-resolution 3-D seismic reflection data to
examine the external and internal geometry and extrusion dynamics of two
late Miocene–Quaternary deepwater (> 2 km emplacement depth)
volcanoes buried beneath 55–330 m of sedimentary strata in the South China
Sea. The volcanoes have crater-like bases, which truncate underlying strata
and suggest extrusion was initially explosive, and erupted lava flows that
feed lobate lava fans. The lava flows are > 9 km long and contain
lava tubes that have rugged basal contacts defined by ∼90±23 m high erosional ramps. We suggest the lava flows eroded down
into and were emplaced within wet, unconsolidated, near-seafloor sediments.
Extrusion dynamics were likely controlled by low magma viscosities as a
result of increased dissolved H2O due to high hydrostatic pressure and
soft, near-seabed sediments, which are collectively characteristic of
deepwater environments. We calculate that long-runout lava flows account
for 50 %–97 % of the total erupted volume, with a surprisingly minor
component (∼3 %–50 %) being preserved in the main volcanic
edifice. Accurate estimates of erupted volumes therefore require knowledge
of volcano and lava basal surface morphology. We conclude that 3-D seismic
reflection data are a powerful tool for constraining the geometry, volumes,
and extrusion dynamics of ancient or active deepwater volcanoes and lava
flows.
Fratura condilar em criança de 4 meses: relato de caso
Authors: Toniolli Vinícius , Bozzetti Pigozzi Lucas , Morawski Rafael , Salim Silveira Vinicius , Tonietto Leonardo , Calcagnotto Thiago
Published: August 2019

Objetivo: apresentar um relato de caso clínico de uma criança de 4 meses de idade que sofreu uma fratura do côndilo após queda e foi submetida a tratamento conservador, discutindo aspectos que determinaram a opção por esta conduta. Relato de caso: paciente apresentava, no exame clínico, discreto edema na região do mento e não apresentava limitação da abertura bucal. Devido a estes achados clínicos e à idade do paciente, mesmo com imagem tomográfica evidenciando a fratura condilar, optou-se pela realização de tratamento conservador e acompanhamento clínico do paciente. Considerações finais: a decisão da conduta terapêutica deve ser baseada em exames físicos, clínicos e imaginológicos do paciente. Em pacientes muito jovens, como o relatado neste caso, é preciso ter cautela com a indicação dos procedimentos a serem realizados, pois é um paciente que está em intenso desenvolvimento e crescimento. O acompanhamento em longo prazo da manutenção de movimentação fisiológica da articulação temporomandibular do paciente também é fundamental para que se tenha sucesso no tratamento escolhido, evitando-se patologias como a anquilose ou outras alterações que dificultem uma abordagem mais conservadora ou minimamente invasiva.
Tratamento com MTA Repair HP de extensa perfuração radicular após iatrogenia: relato de caso
Authors: Resende Felipe De Oliveira , Cardoso Ryhan Menezes , Ferraz Nathalia Marília Pereira , Souza Rafaella Maria Silva de , Ferreira Glauco Dos Santos
Published: August 2019

Objetivo: relatar um caso clínico de perfuração radicular causada por iatrogenia, em terço cervical e médio de um incisivo central superior, dente 21, com presença de lesão óssea periapical. Relato de caso: clinicamente, pôde-se constatar ausência de edema e fístula. Na avaliação da condição pulpar e dos tecidos perirradiculares, o dente apresentou dor na palpação, ausência de mobilidade e de dor em percussão vertical e horizontal. Após os exames de imagem obtidos por meio de tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico (TCFC; Prexion 3D), constatou-se lesão perirradicular extensa, canal radicular obliterado e perfuração radicular em face vestibular após tentativa de acesso cirúrgico. Como escolha de tratamento, optou-se por recuperar o trajeto original do canal de maneira a obter acesso intracanal, realização do preparo químico-mecânico e obturação pela técnica do cone único, para posteriormente promover o selamento adequado da perfuração com MTA Repair HP (Angelus, Londrina, PR, Brasil). Após seis meses, o dente apresentava-se assintomático e, radiograficamente, observou-se o reparo da lesão periapical. Considerações finais: o correto planejamento, o conhecimento dos materiais utilizados e a abordagem terapêutica foram de suma importância para o manejo adequado do caso.
Fundamentalism and Skepticism
Authors: Tajdini Mohammad M. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: August 2019

Fundamentalism was and still is a major threat to global peace and security. The modern world has shown itself to be vulnerable to this persistent threat. The emergence and growth of many fundamentalist cults in the last century, from fascism and communism to various types of religious fundamentalism, is sufficient proof of this point. This paper presents a philosophical investigation of fundamentalism and its specific relation to skepticism, and highlights the ineffectiveness of skeptical philosophies to prevent fundamentalism in human society. Finally, it identifies a theoretical problem in modern thought which is at least partly responsible for the practical vulnerability of the modern world to fundamentalism, and discusses the possibility and necessity of a solution to fix that problem.
La difícil conciliación de la obligación empresarial de evaluar los riesgos con el teletrabajo
Authors: Sabadell i Bosch Mar , García González-Castro Guillermo
Published: August 2019

El paradigma de salud laboral implementado con la Ley de Prevención de Riesgos Laborales en 1995 está impulsando nuevos modelos de gestión preventiva, aún incipientes, que apuestan decididamente por las denominadas organizaciones saludables. Fruto del cambio operado, se ha dejado atrás la tradicional acepción de seguridad e higiene, vinculada esencialmente con los accidentes del trabajo y las enfermedades profesionales, para acoger un término de mucho mayor alcance, seguridad y salud, que comprende la salud del trabajador en toda su extensión, física, psíquica y social.

Tras veinte años de vigencia de la norma, muchos son los logros y avances conseguidos en materia preventiva, pero también son múltiples los retos que se presentan en los próximos años. Entre otros, los relacionados con la ruptura de las barreras espaciales y temporales de la actividad laboral, como consecuencia de la incorporación de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación. En este sentido, el artículo aborda la problemática que se origina en la aplicación de la normativa de seguridad y salud laboral al teletrabajo.

El análisis se centra en presentar el problema desde la misma base de aplicación práctica de la obligación de seguridad y salud laboral al teletrabajo, la evaluación de riesgos laborales, que constituye el fundamento sobre el que se construye y enlaza todo nuestro andamiaje normativo en materia de prevención de riesgos laborales.
Possible magneto-mechanical and magneto-thermal mechanisms of ion channel activation in magnetogenetics
Authors: Barbic Mladen
Published: August 2019

The palette of tools for perturbation of neural activity is continually expanding. On the forefront of this expansion is magnetogenetics, where ion channels are genetically engineered to be closely coupled to the iron-storage protein ferritin. Initial reports on magnetogenetics have sparked a vigorous debate on the plausibility of physical mechanisms of ion channel activation by means of external magnetic fields. The criticism leveled against magnetogenetics as being physically implausible is based on the specific assumptions about the magnetic spin configurations of iron in ferritin. I consider here a wider range of possible spin configurations of iron in ferritin and the consequences these might have in magnetogenetics. I propose several new magneto-mechanical and magneto-thermal mechanisms of ion channel activation that may clarify some of the mysteries that presently challenge our understanding of the reported biological experiments. Finally, I present some additional puzzles that will require further theoretical and experimental investigation.
Transportation Planning for Automated Vehicles—Or Automated Vehicles for Transportation Planning?
Authors: Epting Shane ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: August 2019

In recent years, philosophical examinations of automated vehicles have progressed far beyond initial concerns over the ethical decisions that pertain to programming in the event of a crash. In turn, this paper moves in that direction, focusing on the motivations behind efforts to implement driverless vehicles into urban settings. The author argues that the many perceived benefits of these technologies yield a received view of automated vehicles. This position holds that driverless vehicles can solve most if not all urban mobility issues. However, the problem with such an outlook is that it lends itself to transportation planning for automated vehicles, rather than using them as part of planning efforts that could serve urban mobility. Due to this condition, present efforts aimed at improving transportation systems should resist dogmatic thinking. Instead, they should focus on goals that keep topics such a human flourishing, sustainability, and transportation justice firmly in view.
Pruning and dormancy breaking make two sustainable grape-cropping productions in a protected environment possible without overlap in a single year
Authors: Qiu Zhipeng , Chen Guangzheng , Qiu Dongliang
Published: August 2019

In table grape production, protected cultivation in a vineyard in different regions and climates is currently a commonly used practice. The aims of this study were to provide key approaches to sustainably produce two crops of grape without overlap under protected environment in a single year. Spraying the degreening chemicals 400 mg/L ethephon +0.4% sulfur at 4 weeks of vine nutrient restoration after the harvest of the summer crop resulted in the highest percentage of sprouting inflorescence. The retention of 7–10 buds in the base shoot results in the high percentage of sprouting inflorescence. Bud breaking chemicals with 2.5% hydrogen cyanamide+2.0% Baoguoliang +0.02% Shenzhonggen significantly led to sprout inflorescence more efficiently. Cluster and fruit weights of the winter crop weighed significantly less than those of the summer crop. However, the contents of total soluble sugar and titratable acidity were higher than those of the summer crop. The anthocyanin content in the peel of the winter fruit was significantly higher than that in the summer fruit. The yield of the winter crop is controlled by the yield of the summer fruit. To maintain the stability of the two crops for one year, the ratio of yield in the winter to the summer should be controlled from 2:5 to 3:5 to ensure the sustainable production of two crops without overlap for ‘Summer Black’ grape. These results may help grape growers to overcome the impacts of rainy and hot climates with the help of protected facilities, and it could enable the use of solar radiation and heat resources in subtropical and tropical areas.
Reproductive characteristics of the sole Achirus mazatlanus (Pleuronectiformes: Achiridae) in the Barra de Navidad coastal lagoon, Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: Lucano-Ramírez Gabriela , Gómez-García Miguel de Jesús , Ruiz-Ramírez Salvador , González-Sansón Gaspar , Aguilar-Betancourt Consuelo , Flores-Ortega Juan Ramón
Published: August 2019

Achirus mazatlanus is one of the most widely distributed and abundant soles occurring on the Pacific coast of Mexico, yet most of its biological and reproductive characteristics are unknown. Weekly and monthly samples were collected in the Barra de Navidad coastal lagoon (Jalisco, Mexico) from February 2011 to August 2016 to assess the reproductive biology of this species. Observed total sex ratio (F1.00:M1.03) was not significantly different from the expected 1:1 ratio. Females were, on average, larger than males. The observed monthly gonadosomatic index, percentage of mature gonads, mean oocyte diameter, and ovarian-wall thickness suggest that the species reproduces year-round, with an important reproductive season lasting from April to August. Females were classified as partial spawners with asynchronous oocyte development, and males showed unrestricted spermatogonial testes. The presence of spawned individuals and hydrated oocytes in certain months indicates that the species could be spawning in the lagoon; however, the occurrence of eggs and larvae needs to be demonstrated to ascertain this statement. This was the first time length at sexual maturity was assessed for female (10.84 cm) and male (10.23 cm) A. mazatlanus.
Rising Sea Level, Receding Boundaries and Freezing Baselines in a Warming Climate
Authors: Mercy Emojong Amai , Michura Eliud Garry
Published: August 2019

This paper discusses the less publicised but far from less significant, an issue of how the international community’s approach to maritime boundary delimitation will be impacted by climate change resulting in sea level rise with coastal lands submerging affecting the international boundaries and impacting on biodiversity and human survival in the future. The climate change effect is already creating pressure on international law regardless of the direction that the law of the sea takes in remedying this dilemma. It is quite apparent that global disputes and conflicts are arising and solutions are needed urgently. The climate change and the consequent global sea level rise are widely touted to submerge islands and coastlines without discrimination. The international community has been relatively slow to react to what could pose an unprecedented threat to human civilisation.  The policies that have been applied have arguably been reactive and not proactive.  In future climate change may develop other by-products which may not be understood at this moment and may require a proactive approach. Further discussion of the merits of the potential paths is ideal in ensuring that appropriate and well thought-out resolutions are negotiated. Regardless of the outcome, the thorough debate is required to ensure the correct decision is made and that the balancing act between fulfilling states' interests and achieving a meaningful result does not become detrimental to the solidity and the enforceability of the outcome. There is a need to establish a comprehensive framework for ocean governance for management and long-term development and sustainability.
Application of Biofertilizers in Cover of and Its Effects on Organic Maize
Authors: Favorito Amanda Cecato , Seidel Edleusa Pereira , Kohler Taís Regina , Carvalho William Ribeiro de , Pan Renan , Vasconcelos Edmar Soares de
Published: August 2019

The objective of the present study was to verify the effect of two doses of the biofertilizer ‘Supermagro’ applied in cover, in the presence and absence of cured bovine urine in the maize crop, and in the soil penetration resistance, as well as the effect in the application of biofertilizer ‘Fert Bokashi’. The experimental design used was of randomized blocks with four replicates. The treatments constituted of cover application of ‘Supermagro’ in the dose of 6% (recommended dose) (T1); cover application of ‘Supermagro’ in the dose of 12% (T2); cover application of ‘Supermagro’ in the dose of 6% + cured bovine urine 3% (T3); cover application of ‘Supermagro’ in the dose of 12% + cured bovine urine 3% (T4); cover application of cured bovine urine 3% (T5); use of the biofertilizer ‘Fert Bokashi’ in the dose of 0,5% of dilution) (T6); and control (T7). The results obtained were tabulated and submitted to analysis of variance and the comparison of means by the Dunnett test at 5% of probability, with the aid of the statistical analysis software SAS. For the parameters: thousand grain mass, the treatment ‘Fert Bokashi’ alone presented the highest thousand grain mass (375,00 g) being it superior to the control (p<0,05) with 360,94 g. For the yield parameter, the treatments ‘Supermagro’ 12% + urine, bovine urine alone and ‘Fert Bokashi’ presented the highest averages, (5961 kg ha-1, 5512 kg ha-1 and 5808 kg ha-1, respectively) which differed statistically from the control (5500 kg ha-1) (p<0,05). The biofertilizers are an alternative to increase the yield of maize in the organic system with an average increase of 20% in the maize production in relation to the area without application. The biofertilizer ‘Fer Bokashi’ is an alternative to increase maize yield in the organic production system. The application of biofertilizers did not influence in the soil penetration resistance.
Thionation Enhances the Performance of Polymeric Dopant‐Free Hole‐Transporting Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Haichang , Liu Maning , Yang Wenjun , Judin Lauri , Hukka Terttu I. , Priimagi Arri , Deng Zhifeng , Vivo Paola
Published: August 2019

To date, the most efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs) require hole‐transporting materials (HTMs) that are doped with hygroscopic additives to improve their performance. Unfortunately, such dopants negatively impact the overall PSCs stability and add cost and complexity to the device fabrication. Hence, there is a need to investigate new strategies to boost the typically modest performance of dopant‐free HTMs for efficient and stable PSCs. Thionation is a simple and single‐step approach to enhance the carrier‐transport capability of organic semiconductors, yet still completely unexplored in the context of HTMs for PSCs. In this work, a novel polymeric semiconductor, P1, based on a diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) moiety, is proposed as a dopant‐free HTM. Its modest performance in PSCs (power conversion efficiency (PCE) = 7.1%) is significantly enhanced upon thionation of the DPP moiety. The resulting dithioketopyrrolopyrrole‐based HTM, P2, leads to PSCs with nearly 40% performance improvement (PCE = 9.7%) compared to devices based on the nonthionated HTM (P1). Furthermore, thionation also remarkably boosts the shelf‐storage and thermal stability with respect to traditional 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis(N,N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenylamine)‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene‐based PSCs. This work provides useful insights to further design effective dopant‐free HTMs employing the straightforward one‐step thionation strategy for efficient and stable PSCs.
Immunotoxicity Considerations for Next Generation Cancer Nanomedicines
Authors: Hannon Gary , Lysaght Joanne , Liptrott Neill J. , Prina‐Mello Adriele
Published: August 2019

Although interest and funding in nanotechnology for oncological applications is thriving, translating these novel therapeutics through the earliest stages of preclinical assessment remains challenging. Upon intravenous administration, nanomaterials interact with constituents of the blood inducing a wide range of associated immunotoxic effects. The literature on the immunological interactions of nanomaterials is vast and complicated. A small change in a particular characteristic of a nanomaterial (e.g., size, shape, or charge) can have a significant effect on its immunological profile in vivo, and poor selection of specific assays for establishing these undesirable effects can overlook this issue until the latest stages of preclinical assessment. This work describes the current literature on unintentional immunological effects associated with promising cancer nanomaterials (liposomes, dendrimers, mesoporous silica, iron oxide, gold, and quantum dots) and puts focus on what is missing in current preclinical evaluations. Opportunities for avoiding or limiting immunotoxicity through efficient preclinical assessment are discussed, with an emphasis placed on current regulatory views and requirements. Careful consideration of these issues will ensure a more efficient preclinical assessment of cancer nanomedicines, enabling a smoother clinical translation with less failures in the future.
The Design and Implementation of a Professional Development Program for Physician Assistants in an Academic Emergency Department
Authors: Monette Derek L. , Baccari Brian , Paskind Laura , Reisman David , Temin Elizabeth S.
Published: August 2019

Physician assistants (PAs) are expanding their role in academic emergency departments (EDs). There are no published models for how to integrate PAs into departmental educational activities, scholarship, and operations outside of a PA residency approach. We created a professional development program for PAs that would provide them with opportunities to integrate into all aspects of our department mission and provide them with a forum for personal growth and ongoing education. The program provides PAs with resources including protected time and mentorship to become a content expert in an academic area of interest. We review our 5‐year experience creating and implementing this program, which has grown from six PAs in 2013 to 24 PAs in 2018. These PAs now have formal roles in five of our eight divisions, participating in education, administrative, and research activities. The retention rate for PAs in this program is 90.2% versus 85.7% for PAs at our department who are not in the program. Our experience and results demonstrate the value of investing in the professional development and continued education of PAs at an academic ED versus the traditional model of service and the potential for integration into all aspects of an academic ED's mission.
Innovative steam methane reforming for coproducing CO‐free hydrogen and syngas in proton conducting membrane reactor
Authors: Xia Xiaoliang , Zhou Hangyue , Zhang Yan , Jiang Heqing
Published: August 2019

Steam methane reforming (SMR) is a commercial process to produce syngas. Normally, the as‐produced syngas is characterized by a H2/CO ratio of 3. However, such H2/CO ratio is unsuitable for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis. The hydrogen obtained by subsequent upgrading of syngas usually contains residual CO, which readily deactivates Pt electrocatalysts in fuel cells. Here we report an innovative route by coupling SMR with H2 removal in a proton conducting membrane reactor to coproduce syngas with a preferable H2/CO ratio of 2 and CO‐free H2 on opposite sides of the membrane, which can be directly used for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis and fuel cells, respectively. Notably, H2 is in‐situ extracted by the membrane that only allows the permeation of H2 as protons through the oxide lattice with infinite selectivity, and thus the obtained H2 is CO‐free. This work could provide an alternative option in one‐step conversion of methane into two inherently separated valuable chemicals.
Palladium nanoparticles supported on mesoporous natural phosphate: An efficient recyclable catalyst for nitroarene reduction
Authors: Mekkaoui Ayoub Abdelkader , Jennane Sanaa , Aberkouks Abderrazak , Boualy Brahim , Mehdi Ahmad , Ait Ali Mustapha , El Firdoussi Larbi , El Houssame Soufiane
Published: August 2019

We report the preparation of palladium nanoparticles supported on mesoporous natural phosphate (Pd@NP) using a wetness impregnation method. The prepared catalyst was characterized using various techniques. Furthermore, the reduction and preparation of the palladium nanoparticles was followed using UV–visible spectra. Based on the Scherrer equation, the crystallite size of the as‐synthesized palladium nanoparticles was 10.88 nm. The performance of the synthesized catalyst was investigated in the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol as a model substrate to 4‐aminophenol using NaBH4 as a hydrogen source. Moreover, catalytic reduction of various nitroarenes was studied and monitored using UV–visible spectroscopy and gas chromatography. The Pd@NP catalyst showed a high activity for the selected reaction and could be recycled.
Potential strategy used for controlling the phosphorescent properties in tetradentate Pt(II) complexes: Effect of azole ligand
Authors: Yan Xiao , Luo Yafei , Sun Xin , Zhuo Wei , Gu Jinke , Zuo Ke , Gou Xiaojun , Tang Dianyong , Shi Hubing , Liu Wei , Hu Jianping
Published: August 2019

Designing deep‐blue phosphorescent materials is vital and essential in the construction of white organic light‐emitting diodes. Using density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT, three tetradentate Pt(II) complexes were investigated in detail to reveal the influence of azole ligand with varying number of N atoms on the emission wavelengths and radiative and non‐radiative decay processes. The calculated results indicate that with an increase of N atoms in azole rings, the radiative decay process can be effectively facilitated. Moreover, an increase of N atoms in azole rings could lead to a distinct blue‐shift of emission wavelengths from 553 to 470 nm. Also, the non‐radiative decay processes, including temperature‐independent and temperature‐dependent ones, were taken into account. The results may provide some valuable and meaningful information for designing high‐performance phosphorescent Pt(II) complexes.
Synthesis of novel poly(1‐naphthylamine)‐silver nanocomposites and its catalytic studies on reduction of 4‐nitrophenol and methylene blue
Authors: Kanjirathamathadathil Saidu Femina , Joseph Alex , Thomas George V.
Published: August 2019

A novel poly(1‐naphthylamine)‐silver (PNA‐Ag) nanocomposite has been prepared and used as a heterogeneous catalyst for the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP) and methylene blue (MB). In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been incorporated to PNA via a simple and fast one‐step route, where PNA acts as the reductant for silver ions and stabilizer for AgNPs. The prepared PNA‐Ag nanocomposites were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), energy dispersive X‐ray scattering (EDAX), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. They provided ample evidence for the anchoring of AgNPs to the PNA chains. Enhanced electrochemical performance of the PNA‐Ag nanocomposite has been evidenced by cyclic voltammetry studies. Catalytic studies confirmed that the rate of reduction of both 4‐NP and MB with sodium borohydride have been enhanced significantly in the presence of AgNPs loaded PNA in comparison to neat PNA. This nanocomposite could find application as catalyst for reductive degradation of toxic organic pollutants. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48318.
Impact strength elastomer composites based on polystyrene components separated from waste electrical and electronic equipment
Authors: Grigorescu Ramona M. , Ghioca Paul , Iancu Lorena , Grigore Madalina E. , Ion Rodica‐Mariana , Nicolae Cristian‐Andi , Gabor Raluca , Filipescu Mircea I. , Rapa Maria , Trusca Roxana D. , Ghiurea Marius
Published: August 2019

The reuse of plastic components of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is an important concern both for environmental issues and to preserve the material resources, with minimum energy consumption. Considering that polystyrene fraction was reported as approximate 80% of the total amount of WEEE plastic, this article aims to evaluate the recycling of this fraction, without separation by components, by melt compounding with styrene‐butadiene block‐copolymer (SBS) and hydrogenated and maleinized SBS, the blend of the two elastomers acting both as an impact modifier and compatibilizer. The composites are characterized by mechanical analysis, impact tests, dynamic mechanical analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, and X‐ray diffraction. The recycling conditions of the polystyrene fraction as composites without eliminating the WEEE additives for improved UV and flame resistance, with physical mechanical properties comparable to those of high‐impact polystyrene resulted from the study. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48329.
Solving Future Water Challenges: Trends in Water Reuse
Authors: Curl Jason , Brown A. Randolph , Wait Steve , Dai Ning , Vorheis Jonathan
Published: August 2019

Key Takeaways

Water reuse is today more commonly considered as a potential component of utilities’ overall water portfolios.

A demonstration facility can demystify the treatment process while providing a test for community acceptance.

The list of contaminants of emerging concern continues to grow as analytical capabilities advance and new compounds are introduced in commercial products.
The interplay of corporate entrepreneurship, environmental orientation, and performance in clean‐tech firms—A double‐edged sword
Authors: Niemann Christoph Constantin , Dickel Petra , Eckardt Gordon
Published: August 2019

Clean‐tech innovations are an important driver in solving global issues such as climate change and for the sustainable development of economies around the world. Whereas a large part of the literature focuses on clean‐tech ventures, less is known on corporate entrepreneurship, that is, entrepreneurial behavior in established firms and its relation to sustainability. This paper extends the sustainable entrepreneurship debate to corporate entrepreneurship, which represents a fruitful avenue to further developing clean technologies. We focus particularly on clean‐tech firms' organizational preparedness for corporate entrepreneurship (OPCE), that is, how well a firm's structures and processes are set for entrepreneurial activities. On the basis of contingency theory, this study investigates how the level of OPCE influences the environmental and financial performance of clean‐tech firms and whether their environmental orientation affects these relationships. Building on data from 103 firms, we find support for a positive effect of OPCE on both environmental and financial performance. Both effects are stronger the higher the external environmental orientation. In contrast, the leverage of internal environmental orientation is not equally positive. Our study reveals that the effect of OPCE on financial performance diminishes for firms that are more strongly driven by an internal than an external environmental orientation.
Hypoxic preconditioning improves the survival and neural effects of transplanted mesenchymal stem cells via CXCL12/CXCR4 signalling in a rat model of cerebral infarction
Authors: Hu Yueqiang , Chen Wei , Wu Lin , Jiang Lingfei , Qin Hongling , Tang Nong
Published: August 2019

The treatment of neural deficiency after cerebral infarction is challenging, with limited therapeutic options. The transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to the ischemic penumbra is a potential therapeutic approach. In the present study, a cerebral infarction model was generated by performing middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in SD rats. The expression of CXCR4 increased, and the number of MSCs migrating to the peri‐infarct area was higher in rats transplanted with preconditioned MSCs than in rats transplanted with untreated MSCs. The rate of apoptosis, as evaluated by TUNEL staining and immunoblotting assays, was reduced in rats receiving preconditioned MSCs. A significant amelioration of neural regeneration and improved neurological function were observed in rats injected with preconditioned MSCs compared with those injected with untreated MSCs. However, the application of an siRNA targeting CXCL12 significantly inhibited the protective role of preconditioned MSCs against apoptosis and promoted the migration of MSCs to the ischemic area, leading to impaired neuronal regeneration and limited recovery of neuronal function. Hypoxic preconditioning of MSCs prior to transplantation suppressed apoptosis and increased their migration abilities, leading to the promotion of neuronal regeneration and improvement in neural function after transplantation. This preconditioning strategy may be considered as a potential approach for the modification of MSCs prior to cell transplantation therapy in patients with cerebral infarction.

Significance of the Study

We found that hypoxic preconditioning of MSCs improved their ability to promote neuronal regeneration and the recovery of neuronal function. Moreover, we showed that CXCR4 inhibited apoptosis, improved cell homing, and promoted neuronal differentiation, without influencing angiogenesis. Our study provides a relatively safe preconditioning method for potential use for cell transplantation therapy in ischemic cerebral infarction. The results presented here will facilitate the development of novel strategies and techniques to improve the tolerance and migration ability of transplanted cells for the treatment of cerebral infarction sequelae.
Amplification and attenuation of lung metastases depending on glucocorticoid dosage implicating long‐acting activated memory cells induced by nivolumab against malignant melanoma
Authors: Katagiri Katsunori , Shiga Kiyoto , Saito Daisuke , Oikawa Shin‐ichi , Ikeda Aya , Tsuchida Kodai , Miyaguchi Jun
Published: August 2019

Firstly, glucocorticoids such as prednisolone can attenuate the effect of anti–PD‐1 antibody nivolumab. Secondly, malignant melanoma cells survived latently and unnoticeably in places other than those of previous metastatic lesions. Thirdly, effector T cells activated by nivolumab sustained their memory to attack malignant melanoma cells for several months.
The association of pharmacy fill synchronization with breast cancer endocrine therapy adherence
Authors: Neuner Joan M. , Fergestrom Nicole M. , Laud Purushottam W. , Nattinger Ann B. , Beyer Kirsten M. M. , Flynn Kathryn E. , Pezzin Liliana E.
Published: August 2019

Background

One‐third to one‐half of patients prescribed adjuvant endocrine therapy are nonadherent during the recommended 5‐year endocrine therapy course. This study investigated whether poor pharmacy synchronization of medication fills (requiring refills on different days) acts as a barrier to adherence.

Methods

A cohort of older women with stage 0 to III endocrine receptor–positive breast cancer in 2011 was identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Result–Medicare claims‐linked cancer registry. Women with endocrine therapy and at least 1 other medication fill were identified, and the 3‐month synchronization of their fills was calculated as 1 minus the quotient of the number of pharmacy visits and the number of filled medications. Regression models were used to examine the association between synchronization (in quartiles adjusted for the number of medications) and adherence to endocrine therapy (defined as a medication possession ratio ≥80%) over the subsequent year.

Results

During the 3 months after the first endocrine therapy prescription, the study cohort of 3212 women had a mean of 8.6 pharmacy visits (standard deviation, 4.7) with a mean synchronization of 0.3 (standard deviation, 0.2). Those in the third (odds ratio, 1.29; 95% confidence interval, 1.04‐1.59) and fourth (most) medication number–adjusted synchronization quartiles (odds ratio, 1.49; 95% confidence interval, 1.19‐1.86) were more likely to be adherent than those in the least. Multivariate model predictions showed that the proportion of patients who were adherent over 1 year varied from 68.9% in the least synchronized quartile to 76.6% in the most synchronized one.

Conclusions

Prescription refill synchronization is strongly associated with adherence to endocrine therapy. Efforts to improve adherence should address this.
The Mini‐Organo: A rapid high‐throughput 3D coculture organotypic assay for oncology screening and drug development
Authors: Chitty Jessica L. , Skhinas Joanna N. , Filipe Elysse C. , Wang Shan , Cupello Carmen Rodriguez , Grant Rhiannon D. , Yam Michelle , Papanicolaou Michael , Major Gretel , Zaratzian Anaiis , Da Silva Andrew M. , Tayao Michael , Vennin Claire , Timpson Paul , Madsen Chris D. , Cox Thomas R.
Published: August 2019

Background

The use of in vitro cell cultures is a powerful tool for obtaining key insights into the behaviour and response of cells to interventions in normal and disease situations. Unlike in vivo settings, in vitro experiments allow a fine‐tuned control of a range of microenvironmental elements independently within an isolated setting. The recent expansion in the use of three‐dimensional (3D) in vitro assays has created a number of representative tools to study cell behaviour in a more physiologically 3D relevant microenvironment. Complex 3D in vitro models that can recapitulate human tissue biology are essential for understanding the pathophysiology of disease.

Aim

The development of the 3D coculture collagen contraction and invasion assay, the “organotypic assay,” has been widely adopted as a powerful approach to bridge the gap between standard two‐dimensional tissue culture and in vivo mouse models. In the cancer setting, these assays can then be used to dissect how stromal cells, such as cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs), drive extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling to alter cancer cell behaviour and response to intervention. However, to date, many of the published organotypic protocols are low‐throughput, time‐consuming (up to several weeks), and work‐intensive with often limited scalability. Our aim was to develop a fast, high‐throughput, scalable 3D organotypic assay for use in oncology screening and drug development.

Methods and results

Here, we describe a modified 96‐well organotypic assay, the “Mini‐Organo,” which can be easily completed within 5 days. We demonstrate its application in a wide range of mouse and human cancer biology approaches including evaluation of stromal cell 3D ECM remodelling, 3D cancer cell invasion, and the assessment of efficacy of potential anticancer therapeutic targets. Furthermore, the organotypic assay described is highly amenable to customisation using different cell types under diverse experimental conditions.

Conclusions

The Mini‐Organo high‐throughput 3D organotypic assay allows the rapid screening of potential cancer therapeutics in human and mouse models in a time‐efficient manner.
Energy‐efficient system‐on‐chip reconfigurable architecture design for sum of absolute difference computation in motion estimation process of H.265/HEVC video encoding
Authors: Chandran K.R. Sarath , Chandramani Premanand Venkatesh
Published: August 2019

Motion estimation is the important and computationally intensive part of any video encoding. The objective of this paper is to design and analyze the coarse and fine reconfiguration of processing element‐based hardware design for block matching–based motion estimation in H.265/HEVC video processing. Sum of absolute difference (SAD) is the commonly used criteria for block matching in the motion estimation process. User input is taken as the parameter for coarse reconfiguration, and the threshold value in SAD is considered for the fine reconfiguration. Processing elements are the hardware units designed for performing SAD calculation. In this work, the hardware for block‐based motion estimation for H.265/HEVC encoder is designed using multiple processing elements, which will calculate the SAD values. A system‐on‐chip architecture is implemented and verified the optimization in terms of power and area utilization by reconfiguring the architecture dynamically based on the input video quality requirement.
Drowsy driving detection using neural network with backpropagation algorithm implemented by FPGA
Authors: Choi Hyun‐Sik
Published: August 2019

Neural networks have recently attracted much attention due to the development of artificial intelligence or deep learning technology. These can be implemented by applying the current hardware technology such as a central processing unit and a graphics processing unit. In this case, the applications are limited because considerable power and large volume are used. To overcome these shortcomings, hardware development for artificial intelligence is accelerated, and this technology is called the neuromorphic system, which is especially suitable for low‐power and small‐area applications such as wearable devices. In this study, the neuromorphic system is implemented using the field‐programmable gate array (FPGA), and it is applied to wearable systems. This system is especially developed for a module that measures the drowsiness of a user based on biosignals such as electrocardiogram (ECG) and electromyography (EMG). The measured biosignals are fed to the neuromorphic system for supervised learning using the backpropagation algorithm. Therefore, it is possible to make the drowsiness driving assessment specific to each user, and the error on the user's condition can be minimized. In addition, by integrating artificial intelligence including learning algorithm and biosensor circuits, it is possible to minimize disturbance to the driver or user through miniaturization and low power consumption.
Overview of Methods to Differentiate Sympathetic Neurons from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Wu Hsueh Fu , Zeltner Nadja
Published: August 2019

Sympathetic neurons are crucial for maintenance of body homeostasis and regulation of all organs. Diseases can arise from malfunction of sympathetic neurons, including malignancies, hypertension, and genetic disorders. Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) allow modeling of human diseases and the in‐depth study of pathologies of specific cell types associated with such disorders. Advances in the ability to differentiate hPSCs in vitro has allowed the generation of specific cell types such as sympathetic neurons, which provides the novel opportunity to study diseases affecting the sympathetic nervous system in the human context. Here, we compare selected recent publications that have achieved the goal of generating sympathetic neurons from hPSCs. We discuss strengths and weaknesses of each approach and debate future improvements and the next steps for using these neurons to better our understanding of sympathetic neuron disorders and their treatments. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Sexual Dimorphism in Titi Monkeys’ Digit (2D:4D) Ratio is Associated with Maternal Urinary Sex Hormones During Pregnancy
Authors: Baxter Alexander , Wood Elizabeth K. , Witczak Lynea R. , Bales Karen L. , Higley J. Dee
Published: August 2019

The second‐to‐fourth digit (2D:4D) ratio is a sexually‐dimorphic biomarker for prenatal sex hormone exposure. We investigated whether titi monkeys (Plecturocebus cupreus) exhibit sexually‐dimorphic 2D:4D ratio, and whether variation in 2D:4D ratio correlates with maternal testosterone and estrogen levels during early pregnancy. Subjects were 61 adult titi monkeys (32 males, 29 females). For 26 subjects, maternal urine samples were collected approximately 15–20 weeks before birth and assayed for testosterone and estrone conjugate (E1C). Titi monkeys exhibited a human‐like pattern of sexual dimorphism in right‐hand 2D:4D ratio, with females exhibiting higher 2D:4D ratio than males (β = −0.29, p = 0.023). For left‐hand 2D:4D ratio, high levels of maternal E1C predicted low offspring 2D:4D ratio (β = −0.48, p = 0.009). For right‐hand 2D:4D ratio, high levels of testosterone (β = −0.53, p = 0.005) and testosterone‐to‐E1C ratio (β = −0.41, p = 0.028) predicted low offspring 2D:4D ratio. For 2D:4D ratio asymmetry (right‐hand – left‐hand), high levels of testosterone (β = −0.43, p = 0.03) and testosterone‐to‐E1C ratio (β = −0.53, p = 0.003) predicted low (right‐biased) asymmetry. This is the first report of sexually‐dimorphic 2D:4D ratio in New World monkeys, and the results support a growing literature suggesting prenatal sex hormones may modulate offspring 2D:4D ratio.
Ultraviolet irradiation increases size of the first clutch but decreases longevity in a marine copepod
Authors: Heine Kyle B. , Powers Matthew J. , Kallenberg Christine , Tucker Victoria L. , Hood Wendy R.
Published: August 2019

An important component of life history theory is understanding how natural variation arises in populations. Both endogenous and exogenous factors contribute to organism survival and reproduction, and therefore, it is important to understand how such factors are both beneficial and detrimental to population dynamics. One ecologically relevant factor that influences the life history of aquatic organisms is ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While the majority of research has focused on the potentially detrimental effects that UV radiation has on aquatic organisms, few studies have evaluated hormetic responses stimulated by radiation under select conditions. The goal of this study was to evaluate the impact of UV‐A/B irradiation on life history characteristics in Tigriopus californicus copepods. After exposing copepods to UV‐A/B irradiation (control, 1‐, and 3‐hr UV treatments at 0.5 W/m2), we measured the impact of exposure on fecundity, reproductive effort, and longevity. We found that UV irradiation increased the size of the first clutch among all reproducing females in both the 1‐ and 3‐hr experimental groups and decreased longevity among all females that mated in the 1‐hr treatment. UV irradiation had no effect on the number of clutches females produced. These findings indicate a potential benefit of UV irradiation on reproductive performance early in life, although the same exposure came at a cost to longevity.