bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isoindigo (IID)‐Based Semiconductor with F⋯S Interaction Locked Conformation for High‐Performance Ambipolar Bottom‐Gate Top‐Contact Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Qiao Xiaolan , Wei Qibing , Wu Hongzhuo , Li Hongxiang
Published: August 2020

The development of high‐performance ambipolar polymer semiconductors is critical to organic electronics. Herein, isoindigo (IID)‐based copolymers PIIDDTBT and PIIDDTffBT are synthesized and characterized. Both polymers have suitable highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy levels for hole and electron injection. Density functional theory calculation reveals F⋯S intramolecular interactions are formed in PIIDDTffBT, which locks the molecular conformation and leads to a more planar backbone. Thin film transistor characterization shows both polymers display ambipolar charge carrier transport behavior. The hole/electron mobilities are 0.29/0.1 cm2 V−1 s−1 for PIIDDTffBT and 0.053/0.013 cm2 V−1 s−1 for PIIDDTBT in the bottom‐gate/top‐contact (BGTC) device structures. The hole/electron mobilities of PIIDDTffBT are one of the highest values for IID‐based ambipolar polymer transistors in BGTC device structure. Atomic force microscopy and X‐ray diffraction results reveal PIIDDTffBT films have higher film quality, crystallinity, and more ordered microstructures, being ascribed to the F⋯S interactions locked backbone. These results demonstrate that the introduction of F⋯S interactions is an effective strategy to design high‐performance ambipolar polymer semiconductors.
NLRB Signals Easing of Decertification Rules
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: August 2020

The story of union‐free status begins even before the arrival of a union organizer. Union prevention is, by far, the most effective union‐avoidance strategy. However, the story does not end there. Employers with workers represented by a union are given a periodic opportunity to see the union decertified—that is, the employees vote the union out. The decertification process can be legally challenging and difficult for employees to navigate. In a positive move for employers, the National Labor Relations Board recently indicated an interest in easing those challenges.
SOX6 represses tumor growth of clear cell renal cell carcinoma by HMG domain‐dependent regulation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling
Authors: Chen Luyao , Xie Yongpeng , Ma Xin , Zhang Yu , Li Xintao , Zhang Fan , Gao Yu , Fan Yang , Gu Liangyou , Wang Lei , Zhang Xu , Fu Bin
Published: August 2020

Sex‐determining region Y box (SOXs) are expressed in various cells and control cell fate and differentiation in a multitude of physiologic processes. SOX6, a main representative of SOXs, is involved in the regulation of carcinogenesis in various human malignancies. However, the role of SOX6 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remains unclear. In this study, SOX6 expression in ccRCC and its clinical significance were investigated. In vitro and in vivo assays were used to explore the tumor‐related function and the underlying molecular mechanism of SOX6 in ccRCC. We confirmed that SOX6 was frequently downregulated in ccRCC tissues and cell lines. Besides, downregulation of SOX6 was significantly associated with larger tumor sizes, advanced tumor stage, higher Fuhrman grades, and its expression could act as an independent prognostic factor for ccRCC (hazards ratio = 0.590, P = .026). Gain/loss‐of‐function experiments demonstrated that SOX6 could remarkably inhibit tumor cell growth and foci formation in vitro and xenograft tumorigenesis in vivo, respectively. Mechanistically, SOX6 could influence cell cycle by regulating the G1/the S phase transition and had an inhibitory effect on Wnt/β‐catenin signaling as well as its target genes, c‐Myc and cyclin D1. Interesting, the tumor‐suppressive function of SOX6 was proved to be dependent on its specific high‐mobility‐group (HMG) domain. In general, our findings indicated that SOX6 was a novel tumor suppressor and prognostic biomarker in ccRCC. SOX6 could inhibit tumor growth by negatively regulating the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway in an HMG domain‐dependent manner in ccRCC, which might provide a novel therapeutic approach for ccRCC.
Corporate social responsibility and dividend policy in Sri Lankan firms: A data triangulation approach
Authors: Dewasiri Narayanage Jayantha , Abeysekera Nalin
Published: August 2020

This study investigates the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and dividend policy (DP) using a data triangulation approach in the Sri Lankan context. The findings of the secondary data approach suggest that there is a positive impact from environmental and social CSR on both the likelihood to pay dividends and its payout. Findings of the primary data approach propose that ethical and philanthropic CSR dimensions show a positive impact on both likelihood to pay dividends and its payout. The findings of the triangulation approach revealed that CSR and DP tend to rise together. Hence, we argue that the generosity of the management paves the way towards shareholders' prosperity. This is the first study to investigate the CSR‐DP puzzle using a data triangulation approach. Future researchers could use this study as a guideline, if they intend to conduct a research study through data triangulation approaches especially in dividend policy and also in finance discipline.
Behavior and perception of younger generation towards green products
Authors: Majhi Ritanjali
Published: August 2020

As we know, the most important goal of an organization is to meet the market demand, and also to go with the trend of the market. And currently, the term “Green Marketing” is the buzz word in the market. It is defined as “the strategy used by an organization to produce and market the products in an environment‐friendly way, i.e., an attempt to reduce the negative impact of the product on the environment. We can now observe that the young generations these days—in fact, all consumers in the whole market—are more concerned about the environmental effects of the human beings” consumption practices. So they are moving towards consuming green products which give benefits to oneself. While it is true that this move does not completely eradicate the issues threatening the green in the environment, this surely is a step forward toward a greener world, which simultaneously decreases the green issues.This paper presents an empirical study of the green issues and the green products, comparing them with the attitude of the consumers from the young generation. In this paper, the study is mostly concerned with the young generation wherein the factors affecting their buying behavior are analyzed so as to trace the important factors that drive the young generation into changing their consumption patterns from the conventional product to the green products. Here the study also analyzes the knowledge and the awareness level of the consumers about the green issues, and about the green products and their benefits to oneself and the environment. Besides, a comparison is also done between several factors/variables and the consumers’ age so that it can be easily understood that which variables attract which age group.In this study, various objectives were set. The hypothesis was developed to check the significance level of the relations between young consumers and their attributes. An initial survey was done by distributing a questionnaire online as well as offline. The analysis result says that the young generation consumers have a high degree of awareness and knowledge regarding the green issues and products, which further drives them to buy the green products.
The tribological behaviors of core‐shell n‐octadecane@TiO2/epoxy composites
Authors: Zhao Gengrui , Wang Honggang , Ren Junfang , Chen Shengsheng , Gao Gui , Wang Na , Yang Yawen
Published: August 2020

In this work, the n‐octadecane@TiO2 particles with core‐shell structure were successfully prepared via a sol‐gel method in an oil‐in‐water (o/w) emulsion. The resultant core‐shell particles were incorporated into epoxy matrix to prepare composites. Compared with pure epoxy and TiO2 doped epoxy, the incorporation of n‐octadecane@TiO2 reduced the friction coefficient (COF) and wear rate of epoxy. According to the systematical investigation of the wear tracks on three samples and scars on their friction antithesis balls, it was speculated that the antifriction effect of core‐shell additives on composites were mainly attributed to the mixture formed by the crushed n‐octadecane@TiO2. The mixture not only backfilled the tearing‐like cracks on worn face generated by fatigue wear, but also promoted the formation of transfer film.
Preparation and properties of carbon‐based epoxy nanocomposites: Dynamic mechanical, dielectric, and thermal properties
Authors: Wang Rui , Xie Congzhen , Gou Bin , Xu Huasong , Luo Shoukang , Zhou Jiangang , Zeng Leilei
Published: August 2020

New types of carbon nanomaterials, such as multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP), have attracted much attention in enhancing the thermal conductivity of polymers. However, due to the high electric conductivity of carbon materials, it is difficult for carbon‐based epoxy to achieve the high thermal conductivity while obtaining desired dielectric property. In this article, using GNP and MWCNT modified by titanate coupling agent (PN‐105), a novel method for highly thermally conductive, but electrically insulating epoxy nanocomposites is reported. The experimental results show that the 4% modified MWCNTs/epoxy nanocomposite has presented a simple thermal conductivity network, which can significantly improve the thermal conductivity of epoxy resin (EP), about 6.5 times higher than pure epoxy. Co‐filled with 2% GNPs and 4% MWCNTs, the thermal conductivity of the epoxy nanocomposite is increased to 2.04 W/mK, 957% higher than pure epoxy. In addition, the dielectric constant of the composite is 9.1, which is maintained within an acceptable range. The dynamic mechanical results show that the filling of carbon materials can reduce the storage modulus and the loss factor of EP.
A comparison of first trimester prenatal screening strategies for Down Syndrome with maternal age and preferences considerations
Authors: Fujimoto Akane B. , Ayer Turgay , Caughey Aaron B. , Keskinocak Pinar
Published: August 2020

Objective

Screening for Down Syndrome (DS) includes traditional ultrasound and serum‐based and cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) testing. While cfDNA testing usually has superior performance, it is significantly more costly. As an alternative, a hybrid strategy combining contingent cfDNA with traditional testing is recommended when universal cfDNA screening is not feasible. This study compares the efficacy of traditional, contingent cfDNA, and universal cfDNA screening strategies at various cut‐offs based on maternal age and parents' preferences, which may improve testing outcomes and patients' satisfaction.

Method

Decision trees were used to analyze a cohort of 3 855 500 pregnancies from 12 to 50 years old. The performance of the strategies was compared using the number of adverse outcomes (undetected DS live births and euploid procedure‐related losses).

Results

Universal cfDNA results in the fewest number of adverse outcomes in every scenario. Contingent cfDNA performs better than traditional screening when the cut‐offs used to identify high‐risk cases for cfDNA testing are relatively low. These cut‐offs change depending on the maternal age and parents' preference.

Conclusion

Maternal age and parents' preferences should be considered when choosing cut‐offs for contingent cfDNA to remain as an effective strategy compared to traditional screening and to improve patient satisfaction.
Band Offsets, Optical Conduction, and Microwave Band Filtering Characteristics of γ‐In2Se3/CuO Heterojunctions
Authors: Qasrawi Atef F. , Kmail Reham R.
Published: August 2020

Herein, the design and experimental characterization of γ‐In2Se3/CuO interfaces are considered. Thin films of γ‐In2Se3 are coated with thin layers of CuO at room temperature. The heterojunction device is structurally, morphologically, and optically characterized. It is observed that the coating of CuO onto γ‐In2Se3 engenders the formation of CuSe2 at the ultrathin interface. The γ‐In2Se3/CuO heterojunctions exhibit maximum possible conduction and valence band offsets of values 0.47 and 0.96 eV, respectively. The dielectric spectra display two dielectric resonance peaks at 2.96 and 1.78 eV. In addition, analyses of the optical conductivity spectra reveal accurate drift mobility and plasmon frequency values of 31.31 cm2 Vs−1 and 1.5 GHz, respectively. The ability of the device to control the signal propagation at gigahertz level is experimentally tested by the impedance spectroscopy technique which proved the ability of the device to behave as bandpass filters of notch frequency of 1.49 GHz. The γ‐In2Se3/CuO heterojunction devices are also observed to display terahertz cutoff frequency values of ≈24 THz in the infrared (IR) range of incident photon energy and ≈193 THz in the ultraviolet light range. The nonlinear optical performance of the device nominates it for use as terahertz/gigahertz band filters.
Strong Exciton–Plasmon Coupling in Waveguide‐Based Plexcitonic Nanostructures
Authors: Mahinroosta Tayebeh , Mehri Hamidi Seyedeh
Published: August 2020

A new 2D plexcitonic structure based on coupled‐resonator optical waveguides is demonstrated to enhance light–matter interactions in the J‐aggregate molecules coupled to the plasmonic resonator. For this purpose, four different plexcitonic structures are defined by adjusting the coverage of dye medium over the plasmonic structures and applying forward or backward illumination direction, which are examined by the finite difference time domain method. The results show that several parameters could be used to sweep plasmon–exciton coupling in the weak, intermediate, and strong coupling regimes such as the type of structures (single or array of nanodisks), the radius of nanodisks, the direction of the incident light, and the concentration of J‐aggregate molecules. From the presented results, there are remarkable values for Rabi splitting by tuning these parameters, and it is achieved that the sample with coverage of dye in the style of the plasmonic pattern in backward illumination offers higher strength of the plasmon–exciton coupling, and then Rabi splitting is about 670 meV for the radius set to 90 nm. This amount of splitting in this new kind of plexcitonic structure can open new insight in low cost and efficient hybrid structures.
Event‐triggered model predictive control for disturbed linear systems under two‐channel transmissions
Authors: Hu Xiaoda , Yu Hao , Hao Fei , Luo Yu
Published: August 2020

This article studies an event‐triggered model predictive control problem for constrained continuous‐time linear systems subject to bounded disturbances. Two different event‐triggered strategies are constructed in the sensor and the controller nodes for reducing the communication and computational loads, respectively. The continuous predicted control trajectory generated by the controller is applied to the plant under a sample‐and‐hold implementation. By constructing a feasible control sequence, the sufficient conditions are derived to guarantee the feasibility and stability of the closed‐loop system. Furthermore, the case of multiple samples within an event‐triggered control update interval is considered. It is shown that a larger number of samples will improve the triggering performance while increasing the amount of transmission information. Finally, a simulation example is provided to show the feasibility and the effectiveness of the proposed strategy.
A stratified generalized additive model and permutation test for temporal heterogeneity of smoothed bivariate spatial effects
Authors: Tang Yannan , Vieira Veronica M. , Bartell Scott M. , Gillen Daniel L.
Published: August 2020

Generalized additive models (GAMs) with bivariate smoothers are frequently used to map geographic disease risks in epidemiology studies. A challenge in identifying health disparities has been the lack of intuitive and computationally feasible methods to assess whether the pattern of spatial effects varies over time. In this research, we accommodate time‐stratified smoothers into the GAM framework to estimate time‐specific spatial risk patterns while borrowing information from confounding effects across time. A backfitting algorithm for model estimation is proposed along with a permutation testing framework for assessing temporal heterogeneity of geospatial risk patterns across two or more time points. Simulation studies show that our proposed permuted mean squared difference (PMSD) test performs well with respect to type I error and power in various settings when compared with existing methods. The proposed model and PMSD test are used geospatial risk patterns of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in the state of Massachusetts over 2003‐2009. We show that there is variation over time in spatial patterns of PDA risk, adjusting for other known risk factors, suggesting the presence of potential time‐varying and space‐related risk factors other than the adjusted ones.
Surface Charge of Supramolecular Nanosystems for In Vivo Biodistribution: A MicroSPECT/CT Imaging Study
Authors: Ding Ling , Lyu Zhenbin , Louis Beatrice , Tintaru Aura , Laurini Erik , Marson Domenico , Zhang Mengjie , Shao Wanxuan , Jiang Yifan , Bouhlel Ahlem , Balasse Laure , Garrigue Philippe , Mas Eric , Giorgio Suzanne , Iovanna Juan , Huang Yuanyu , Pricl Sabrina , Guillet Benjamin , Peng Ling
Published: August 2020

Bioimaging has revolutionized medicine by providing accurate information for disease diagnosis and treatment. Nanotechnology‐based bioimaging is expected to further improve imaging sensitivity and specificity. In this context, supramolecular nanosystems based on self‐assembly of amphiphilic dendrimers for single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) bioimaging are developed. These dendrimers bear multiple In3+ radionuclides at their terminals as SPECT reporters. By replacing the macrocyclic 1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid cage with the smaller 1,4,7‐triazacyclononane‐1,4,7‐triacetic acid scaffold as the In3+ chelator, the corresponding dendrimer exhibits neutral In3+‐complex terminals in place of negatively charged In3+‐complex terminals. This negative‐to‐neutral surface charge alteration completely reverses the zeta‐potential of the nanosystems from negative to positive. As a consequence, the resulting SPECT nanoprobe generates a highly sought‐after biodistribution profile accompanied by a drastically reduced uptake in liver, leading to significantly improved tumor imaging. This finding contrasts with current literature reporting that positively charged nanoparticles have preferential accumulation in the liver. As such, this study provides new perspectives for improving the biodistribution of positively charged nanosystems for biomedical applications.
Bioinspired NADH Regeneration Based on Conjugated Photocatalytic Systems
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Zhao Yingjie , Li Run , Liu Jian
Published: August 2020

Cofactors, such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) or its phosphorylated derivative (NADPH), are playing essential roles in redox enzymatic catalysis because of their indispensable roles as biological hydride sources. However, due to its stoichiometric consumption, economic and efficient regeneration for NADH is of great importance for both in vivo and in vitro applications. Inspired by natural photosynthesis, photocatalytic NADH regeneration has drawn increasing attention, resulting from its mild reaction conditions and excellent biocompatibility with enzymes. Currently, various heterogeneous photocatalysts, such as conjugated small molecules, graphitic carbon nitride, carbon‐based materials, and organic polymers, are reported as promising candidates for photocatalytic NADH regeneration due to their outstanding advantages of low cost, high chemical stability, limited toxicity, and molecularly tunable optoelectronic properties. Herein, the key advances of conjugated photocatalytic systems for NADH regeneration are summarized, accompanied with their strengths and limitations. Finally, an outlook is tentatively attempted about the further developments of conjugated polymers–based NADH regeneration as well as integrated photoenzymatic catalysis.
The Stabilization of Formamidinium Lead Tri‐Iodide Perovskite through a Methylammonium‐Based Additive for High‐Efficiency Solar Cells
Authors: Zhu Tao , Zheng Daming , Rager Marie-Noelle , Pauporté Thierry
Published: August 2020

Nowadays, complex chemistry and precursor solution compositions are developed to stabilize hybrid perovskite films and boost the efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this context, determining the actual composition of these layers, especially in organic cations, and understanding the chemistry behind is challenging. Herein, the introduction of methylammonium (MA+) in formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3) 3D perovskite is considered to stabilize the α‐phase, whose quantity must be minimized to reduce the material hydrophilicity and its possible destabilization by degassing. The key effects of methylammonium chloride (MACl) additive on the growth of FA1–xMAxPbI3 perovskite layers are studied. Liquid nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is used to analyze the photovoltaic layers. NMR peaks and their origin are identified. The MA and FA content in films actually used in PSCs is reliably measured and prepared over a large additive molar concentration ratio. x is quantified at 0.06 ± 0.01 for pure films, which corresponds to the best entropic compound stabilization. It results in PSCs with a stabilized power conversion efficiency as high as 22.06%. These PSCs are shown to be highly stable under solar irradiation and high moisture.
A framework for microservices synchronization
Authors: De Iasio Antonio , Zimeo Eugenio
Published: August 2020

Microservices architecture and continuous software engineering are becoming popular approaches for developing and operating software products. The enabling feature of this success is the independence of the execution environments hosting microservices: by insulating failures and versioning in specific microservices, a complex application benefits of high availability at runtime and agility at development time. However, execution independence does not mean functional independence. Microservices need to interact among them to fulfill a common goal of an application. The unavailability of a microservice may seriously impact other dependent microservices, limiting continuity. To address this new kind of problem in microservices architecture, we argue the necessity of a synchronization mechanism able to support microservices coordination according to their running states: dependent microservices should wait for unready ones to avoid useless and faulty interactions. In this article, we propose a new framework, Synchronizer, able to support synchronization among microservices by exploiting distributed registries for collecting health/state information about deployed containers and hosted microservices. It has been implemented for the OpenShift platform and validated in different use cases: for example, for coordinating applications bootstrap and for programming scripts of continuous deployment orchestrators, such as Jenkins. In both cases, Synchronizer worked as expected and showed the positive effects of synchronization, giving us a valuable feedback about the possibility of further extending its application and of integrating the feature in existing microservices frameworks (eg, services mesh).
Effects of Operational Parameters on Particle Movement and Distribution at the Top of a Bell‐Less Blast Furnace Based on Discrete Element Method
Authors: Hong Zhibin , Zhou Heng , Wu Jianlong , Zhan Longling , Fan Yibo , Zhang Zongwang , Wu Shengli , Xu Haifa , Wang Li Pang , Kou Mingyin
Published: August 2020

In blast furnaces, the chute is the key device determining burden distribution. The effects of the chute's geometric and operational parameters on burden distribution have seldom been studied. Herein, the top of a bell‐less blast furnace is modeled based on the discrete element method to investigate the effects of chute length, stock‐line level and chute angle on particle movement, and radial burden distribution. The results indicate that burden particles are more likely to slide toward the opposite to the rotating direction as the chute length or angle increases. The burden distribution segregation is mainly caused by the segregation of particle velocity on the chute and the percolation of pellet on the chute. The burden tends to aggregate with increases in chute length and disperse with increases in stock‐line level or chute angle.
Dominating Role of Film‐Like Carbon‐Enriched Austenite for the Simultaneous Improvement of Strength and Toughness in Low‐Carbon Steel
Authors: Yang Kai , Ding Wei , Liu Shilong , Li Wei , Jin Xuejun
Published: August 2020

Multiphase microstructures containing film‐like carbon‐enriched austenite and martensite matrix represent an ideal microstructure that can facilitate the breakthrough of the trade‐off between strength and toughness, as well as good low‐temperature toughness in high‐strength steels. In this study, to determine the impact of film‐like carbon‐enriched austenite on the toughness of low‐carbon high‐strength steel, quenching and low‐temperature partitioning process is applied to a newly designed alloy. The quenching step results in a mixed microstructure consisting of a martensite matrix with high dislocation density and film‐like retained austenite, which is stabilized via carbon enrichment during tempering at 200 ºC for 60 min. Thus, the produced high‐strength steel specimen shows excellent mechanical properties (yield strength = 1201 MPa and tensile strength = 1550 MPa) and superior toughness (68.8 J at −60 ºC). Its strength primarily results from dislocation strengthening, grain boundary strengthening, and solid solution strengthening, and its superior low‐temperature toughness is associated with the film‐like carbon‐enriched austenite, which relaxes local stress, dissipates the plastic energy at the microcrack tip, and delays the initiation and propagation of cracks. Finally, a schematic diagram is designed to elucidate the effect of the retained austenite stabilization on the ductile–brittle transition temperature.
Reaktive Brandschutzsysteme auf Stahlbauteilen mit doppelt gekrümmter Oberfläche
Authors: Häßler Dustin , Häßler Mai , Hothan Sascha , Krüger Simone
Published: August 2020

Reaktive Brandschutzsysteme können die Feuerwiderstandsdauer von Stahlbauteilen signifikant erhöhen. Im Brandfall schäumt das reaktive Brandschutzsystem auf und bildet um das Stahlbauteil eine thermische Schutzschicht aus. Dadurch wird die Erwärmung des Stahls verlangsamt und der temperaturbedingte Festigkeitsverlust verzögert. Reaktive Brandschutzsysteme werden überwiegend in drei Bereichen angewendet: Hochbau, Offshore bzw. maritimer Sektor sowie Tank‐ bzw. Behälterbau. Insbesondere bei Stahltanks und ‐behältern sind häufig einfach oder auch doppelt gekrümmte Bauteiloberflächen anzutreffen. Aufgrund des meist begrenzten seitlichen Expansionsvermögens von reaktiven Brandschutzsystemen kann es bei Bauteilen mit konvexer Oberflächenkrümmung zu einer Intensivierung der Rissbildung im Schaum kommen, wodurch sich häufig die thermische Schutzwirkung verschlechtert. Da zum Thema des Einflusses der Oberflächenkrümmung auf die Leistungsfähigkeit reaktiver Brandschutzsysteme bisher kaum Untersuchungen vorliegen, wurden exemplarisch zwei Tankböden mit zwei verschiedenen Trockenschichtdicken eines reaktiven Brandschutzsystems einer Brandprüfung unterzogen. Bei gleicher Trockenschichtdicke des reaktiven Brandschutzsystems zeigten die Tankböden eine wesentlich schnellere Erwärmung als ebene Stahlplatten mit vergleichbarem Profilfaktor. Die Brandprüfungen und die Ergebnisse zum Einfluss der Oberflächenkrümmung werden im Beitrag ausführlich vorgestellt und diskutiert.
Preparation and Utilization of Jute‐Derived Carbon: A Short Review
Authors: Aziz Abdul , Shah Syed Shaheen , Kashem Abul
Published: August 2020

This article summarizes the preparation and applications of carbon derived from jute sticks and fibers that are low‐cost, widely available, renewable, and environmentally friendly. Both the fibers and sticks are considered ideal candidates of carbon preparation because they are composed of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin, and contain negligible ash content. Various carbon preparation methods including simple pyrolysis, pyrolysis with chemical and physical activations are discussed. The impacts of several parameters including types of activating agents, impregnation ratio, and temperature on their morphology, surface area, pore size, crystallinity, and surface functional groups are also emphasized. Various treatments to endow functionalization for increasing the practical applicability, such as chemical, physical, and physico‐chemical methods, are discussed. In addition, applications of jute‐derived carbon in various practical areas, including energy storage, water treatment, and sensors, are also highlighted in this report. Due to the porous fine structure and a large specific surface area, the jute‐derived carbon could be considered as a powerful candidate material for various industrial applications. Finally, possible future prospects of jute‐derived carbon for various applications are pointed out.
Freezing Technology: Control of Freezing, Thawing, and Ice Nucleation
Authors: Kilbride Peter , Meneghel Julie
Published: August 2020

From early dry-ice-based freezers and passive coolers, cryopreservation devices have come a long way. With increasing interest in the field of cryobiology from new scientific applications, the importance of reliable, traceable, and reproducible cold chain devices is sure to increase, ensuring more precise cryopreservation and enabling better post-thaw outcomes, both for the user and for biological samples. As with any cryopreservation process, it is important to optimize each part of the cold chain for each lab’s biological samples, cryocontainers used, and logistical restraints. In this chapter we describe how freezing technology can be used for cryopreservation of cells.
Small medial femoral condyle morphotype is associated with medial compartment degeneration and distinct morphological characteristics: a comparative pilot study
Authors: Grammens Jonas , Van Haver Annemieke , Danckaers Femke , Booth Brian , Sijbers Jan , Verdonk Peter
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Early-onset degeneration of the knee is linked to genetics, overload, injury, and potentially, knee morphology. The purpose of this study is to explore the characteristics of the small medial femoral condyle, as a distinct knee morphotype, by means of a landmark-based three-dimensional (3D) analysis and statistical parametric mapping.

Methods

Sixteen knees with a small medial femoral condyle (SMC) were selected from a database of patients with distinct knee joint anatomy and 16 gender-matched knees were selected from a control group database. 3D models were generated from the medical imaging. After normalization for size, a set of pre-defined landmark-based parameters was analysed for the femur and tibia. Local shape differences were evaluated by matching all bone surfaces onto each other and comparing the distances to the mean control group bone shape.

Results

The small medial condyle group showed a significant association with medial compartment degeneration and had a 4% and 13% smaller medial condyle anteroposteriorly and mediolaterally, whereas the distal femur was 3% wider mediolaterally. The lateral condyle was 2% smaller anteroposteriorly and 8% wider mediolaterally. The complete tibial plateau was 3% smaller mediolaterally and the medial tibial plateau was 6% smaller.

Conclusion

A new knee morphotype demonstrated an increased risk for medial compartment degeneration and was differentiated from a healthy control group based on the following morphological characteristics: a smaller medial femoral condyle and medial tibial plateau, a wider lateral femoral condyle and a wider distal femur on a smaller tibial plateau. This pilot study suggests a role for the SMC knee morphotype in the multifactorial process of medial compartment degeneration.

Level of evidence

III
Abrasive fluidized bed finishing to improve the fatigue behaviour of Ti6Al4V parts fabricated by electron beam melting
Authors: Atzeni Eleonora , Rubino Gianluca , Salmi Alessandro , Trovalusci Federica
Published: August 2020

A study of the abrasive fluidized bed (AFB) finishing process was conducted to quantify the obtainable improvement of the fatigue behaviour of Ti6Al4V parts produced by electron beam melting (EBM). Axial-symmetric EBM samples were rotated at high speed inside a fluidized bed of stainless-steel media. The effects of the treatment time and the rotational speed on morphological features and fatigue life of the EBM samples were investigated. Outcomes showed that the improvement in surface properties induced by the AFB finishing process determined an increase up to 50% in fatigue life and a shift of the S-N curve.
On-line analysis and in situ pH monitoring of mixed acid fermentation by Escherichia coli using combined FTIR and Raman techniques
Authors: Metcalfe George D. , Smith Thomas W. , Hippler Michael
Published: August 2020

We introduce an experimental setup allowing continuous monitoring of bacterial fermentation processes by simultaneous optical density (OD) measurements, long-path FTIR headspace monitoring of CO2, acetaldehyde and ethanol, and liquid Raman spectroscopy of acetate, formate, and phosphate anions, without sampling. We discuss which spectral features are best suited for detection, and how to obtain partial pressures and concentrations by integrations and least squares fitting of spectral features. Noise equivalent detection limits are about 2.6 mM for acetate and 3.6 mM for formate at 5 min integration time, improving to 0.75 mM for acetate and 1.0 mM for formate at 1 h integration. The analytical range extends to at least 1 M with a standard deviation of percentage error of about 8%. The measurement of the anions of the phosphate buffer allows the spectroscopic, in situ determination of the pH of the bacterial suspension via a modified Henderson-Hasselbalch equation in the 6–8 pH range with an accuracy better than 0.1. The 4 m White cell FTIR measurements provide noise equivalent detection limits of 0.21 μbar for acetaldehyde and 0.26 μbar for ethanol in the gas phase, corresponding to 3.2 μM acetaldehyde and 22 μM ethanol in solution, using Henry’s law. The analytical dynamic range exceeds 1 mbar ethanol corresponding to 85 mM in solution. As an application example, the mixed acid fermentation of Escherichia coli is studied. The production of CO2, ethanol, acetaldehyde, acids such as formate and acetate, and the changes in pH are discussed in the context of the mixed acid fermentation pathways. Formate decomposition into CO2 and H2 is found to be governed by a zeroth-order kinetic rate law, showing that adding exogenous formate to a bioreactor with E. coli is expected to have no beneficial effect on the rate of formate decomposition and biohydrogen production.
Derandomization for Sliding Window Algorithms with Strict Correctness∗
Authors: Ganardi Moses , Hucke Danny , Lohrey Markus
Published: August 2020

In the sliding window streaming model the goal is to compute an output value that only depends on the lastnsymbols from the data stream. Thereby, only space sublinear in the window sizenshould be used. Quite often randomization is used in order to achieve this goal. In the literature, one finds two different correctness criteria for randomized sliding window algorithms: (i) one can require that for every data stream and every time instantt, the algorithm computes a correct output value with high probability, or (ii) one can require that for every data stream the probability that the algorithm computes at every time instant a correct output value is high. Condition (ii) is stronger than (i) and is called “strict correctness” in this paper. The main result of this paper states that every strictly correct randomized sliding window algorithm can be derandomized without increasing the worst-case space consumption.
Three-dimensional orthotropic nonlinear transient moisture simulation for wood: analysis on the effect of scanning curves and nonlinearity
Authors: Florisson Sara , Vessby Johan , Mmari Winston , Ormarsson Sigurdur
Published: August 2020

This paper introduces, with the development of user-subroutines in the finite-element software Abaqus FEA®, a new practical analysis tool to simulate transient nonlinear moisture transport in wood. The tool is used to revisit the calibration of moisture simulations prior to the simulation of mechanical behaviour in bending subjected to climate change. Often, this calibration does not receive sufficient attention, since the properties and mechanical behaviour are strongly moisture dependent. The calibration of the moisture transport simulation is made with the average volumetric mass data experimentally obtained on a paired specimen of Norway spruce (Picea abies) with the dimensions $$30\times 15\times 640\, {\mathrm{mm}}^{3}$$

30
×
15
×
640

mm

3

. The data, from a 90-day period, were measured under a constant temperature of 60 °C and systematic relative humidity cycles between 40 and 80%. A practical method based on analytical expressions was used to incorporate hysteresis and scanning behaviour at the boundary surface. The simulation tool makes the single-Fickian model and Neumann boundary condition readily available and the simulations more flexible to different uses. It also allows for a smoother description of inhomogeneity of material. The analysis from the calibration showed that scanning curves associated with hysteresis cannot be neglected in the simulation. The nonlinearity of the analysis indicated that a coherent set of moisture dependent diffusion and surface emission coefficient is necessary for the correct description of moisture gradients and mass transport.
On finitary properties for fiber products of free semigroups and free monoids
Authors: Clayton Ashley
Published: August 2020

We consider necessary and sufficient conditions for finite generation and finite presentability for fiber products of free semigroups and free monoids. We give a necessary and sufficient condition on finite fiber quotients for a fiber product of two free monoids to be finitely generated, and show that all such fiber products are also finitely presented. By way of contrast, we show that fiber products of free semigroups over finite fiber quotients are never finitely generated. We then consider fiber products of free semigroups over infinite semigroups, and show that for such a fiber product to be finitely generated, the quotient must be infinite but finitely generated, idempotent-free, and$$\mathcal {J}$$J-trivial. Finally, we construct automata accepting the indecomposable elements of the fiber product of two free monoids/semigroups over free monoid/semigroup fibers, and give a necessary and sufficient condition for such a product to be finitely generated.
A New Treatment for Local Adiposity with Ascorbic Acid and Ascorbyl-Palmitate Solution: Clinical and Histological Study
Authors: Scarano Antonio , Sbarbati Andrea , Amore Roberto , Iorio Eugenio Luigi , Ferraro Giuseppe , Amuso Domenico
Published: August 2020

Background

Localized adiposity (AL) is the accumulation of subcutaneous adipose tissue, placed in definite anatomic areas, building up an alteration of the body silhouette. The aim of the present clinical and histological study is to assess the effectiveness of an injectable solution containing sodium salt of ascorbic acid 0.24% and surfactant agent at 0.020% ascorbyl-palmitate (SAP) for treating local adiposity.

Methods

Eighty healthy female adult patients were selected, suffering from local adiposity in the abdominal region. The patients underwent a cycle of 6 sessions, with biweekly treatments, without the addition of any active ingredient. Direct infiltration of pharmacologically active SAP solutions into the adipose tissue with a long needle, very similar to the needles used for spinal anesthesia, was performed. This procedure is quick and painless (does not require any anesthesia) with moderate infiltration speed.

Results

All the patients treated showed good results with good satisfaction of the circumferential reductions. Before treatment: Waist (cm) 78.8 ± 10.6 and hip 93.6 ± 9.0 with WHR 0.84 ± 0.07. After treatment: Waist (cm) 70.8 ± 9.6 and hip 92.6 ± 8.0 with WHR 0.76 ± 0.06. Indeed, signs of adipocyte apoptosis were observed in subcutaneous skin after injection of SAP.

Conclusion

The results showed in the present study suggest that the SAP utilized induces apoptosis of adipocytes and could be of use as a safe and effective method with which to eliminate subcutaneous abdominal fat.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authorswww.springer.com/00266.
Diffusion‐Weighted MRI Predicts Lymph Node Metastasis and Tumor Aggressiveness in Resectable Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Harimoto Norifumi , Araki Kenichiro , Hoshino Kouki , Muranushi Ryo , Hagiwara Kei , Ishii Norihiro , Tsukagoshi Mariko , Igarashi Takamichi , Watanabe Akira , Kubo Norio , Tomonaga Hiroyasu , Higuchi Tetsuya , Tsushima Yoshito , Ikota Hayato , Shirabe Ken
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to identify whether diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW‐MRI) can predict the malignant behavior of preoperative well‐differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs).

Method

Forty patients with PanNETs who underwent pancreatectomy were enrolled in this study. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were measured. Clinicopathological factors were compared in patients with high ADC and low ADC values and in patients with and without lymph node metastasis (LNM).

Result

The low ADC group was significantly associated with higher Ki‐67 index, higher mitotic count, larger tumor size, higher rate of LNM, and venous invasion. In patients with low ADC values, the incidence of LNMs was 33.3%. In patients with high ADC values, there were no patients with LNM being 0%. A significant negative correlation was found between the mean ADC values and the Ki‐67 index and between the mean ADC values and the mitotic count. In multivariate analysis, neural invasion and mean ADC values ≤ 1458 were independent predictors of LNM.

Conclusion

ADC values obtained using DW‐MRI in the preoperative assessment of patients with PanNETs might be a useful predictor of malignant potential, especially LNM.
A survey of modeling, rendering and animation of clouds in computer graphics
Authors: Goswami Prashant
Published: August 2020

Clouds play an important role in enhancing the realism of outdoor scenes in computer graphics (CG). Realistic cloud generation is a challenging task, which entails processes such as modeling, photorealistic rendering and simulation of the clouds. To these ends, several techniques have been proposed within the CG community in the last 4 decades with one or more of the above stated focuses. The growth of modern hardware has also enabled development of techniques that can achieve cloud display and animation at interactive frame rates. In this survey, we review the prominent work in the domain and also summarize the evolution of the research over the time.
Surgical debridement of infected pubic symphysitis supports optimal outcome
Authors: Devlieger Benjamin , Wagner Daniel , Hopf Johannes , Rommens Pol Maria
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Infected pubic symphysitis (IPS) is a rare bacterial infection of the pubic symphysis that causes subpubic pain, disability and ultimately permanent immobility. Due to difficult diagnosis, patients present with long-standing complaints and consult several doctors. To date, no validated treatment protocol exists and most patients are treated conservatively with antibiotics. This study was aimed to assess the results after careful surgical debridement and pathogen-specific antibiotic treatment in IPS.

Materials and methods

A chart review of eight patients with proven IPS was performed. Five of eight patients filled in a specific own-developed questionnaire and could be examined clinically and radiologically at a mean of 13 months (range: 6–30 months) postoperatively.

Results

There were six males and two females with an average age of 69 years (range: 55–80 years). The mean duration of symptoms before surgical treatment was 10.5 months (range: 1–30 months). There were no complications due to the surgical debridement. There was no recurrence of infection at the pubic symphysis during the follow-up period. The most common pathogen wasPseudomonas aeruginosain three patients. Mean preoperative pain, measured on the visual analogue scale (VAS, range: 0–10) for the four analysed categories in the five follow-up patients was 7.2, 30 days postoperatively 2.7 and 13 months postoperatively 0.4. There was a steady increase in the quality of life (QoL) 30 days postoperatively and at the 13 months follow-up when compared to preoperative values.

Conclusions

Surgical debridement is the keystone for treatment of IPS and should be combined with local and systemic antibiotic therapy.
Individual variability of olfactory fMRI in normosmia and olfactory dysfunction
Authors: Yunpeng Zang , Han Pengfei , Joshi Akshita , Hummel Thomas
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The diagnosis of olfactory dysfunction is mainly based on psychophysical measurements. The aim of the current study was to investigate how well the olfactory functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can effectively distinguish between normosmic people and subjects with olfactory dysfunction.

Methods

Thirty-eight participants were recruited for the study. Group 1 consisted of 22 subjects with olfactory dysfunction (mean age = 44.3 years, SD = 18.6), and Group two consisted of 16 participants with normal olfactory function (mean age = 49.6 years, SD = 11.6). Olfactory functions were assessed in great detail for all participants, and brain activation in response to odorous stimulation was assessed using fMRI.

Results

The between-group comparison showed stronger odor induced brain activation of the primary olfactory area and the insular cortex among the normosmic group as compared to the dysosmic group. As indicated by the individual analysis, positive responses in the primary olfactory cortex were significantly higher in normosmic people (94%) than in subjects with olfactory dysfunction (41%). However, there was no association between individual fMRI parameters (including the percentage of BOLD signal change, activated cluster size and peak z value), and psychophysical olfactory test scores. Receiver operating characteristic analysis suggested the subjects could not be differentiated from normosmics based on their BOLD signal from the primary olfactory area, orbitofrontal cortex, or the insular cortex.

Conclusion

There are large inter-individual variabilities for odor-induced brain activation among normosmic subjects and subjects with olfactory dysfunction, due to this variation, at present it appears problematic to diagnose olfactory dysfunction on an individual level using fMRI.