bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strong and tough, pH sensible, interpenetrating network hydrogels based on gelatin and poly(methacrylic acid)
Authors: Ugrinovic Vukasin , Panic Vesna , Spasojevic Pavle , Seslija Sanja , Bozic Bojan , Petrovic Rada , Janackovic Djordje , Veljovic Djordje
Published: December 2021

Hydrogels are promising materials for biomedical applications due to highly hydrated, porous, permeable structure with possibility to accommodate living cells, drugs, or bioactive factors. In this paper, we reported poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA)/gelatin IPN hydrogels, synthesized by free‐radical polymerization, with adjustable mechanical, structural, physicochemical, and biological characteristics. The influence of methacrylic acid (MAA), gelatin, and cross‐linker in the precursor solution on hydrogels properties was investigated. The increasing concentration of MAA, gelatin, and cross‐linker led to better mechanical properties, lower porosity, and water content. The compressive mechanical properties of hydrogels were significantly better in comparison to a single‐network PMAA hydrogel, while the obtained compressive strength values up to 16 MPa were comparable with tough hydrogels. The increasing concentration of MAA and cross‐linker reduced fatigue resistance and degradability, while the increase in gelatin content acted in the opposite way. Swelling tests in different pH conditions demonstrated strong pH‐sensibility of the hydrogels, which was more pronounced as MAA concentration was higher, and gelatin and cross‐linker concentrations were lower. In addition, the hydrogels strongly promoted the proliferation of human periodontal ligament stem cells and MRC‐5 cells as assayed by MTT assay.
Importance of atmospheric aerosol pollutants on the degradation of Al2O3 encapsulated Al‐doped zinc oxide window layers in solar cells
Authors: Zhang Shan‐Ting , Maltseva Alina , Herting Gunilla , Guillemoles Jean‐François , Schneider Nathanaelle , Odnevall Inger , Volovitch Polina
Published: December 2021

Atmospheric aerosol pollutants are considered for the first time for the durability evaluation of non‐metallic photovoltaic materials on the example of pristine and Al2O3‐encapsulated Al‐doped zinc oxide (AZO) window layers. The AZO samples were exposed to a varied temperature and humidity cycle, completed or not by a daily deposition of (NH4)2SO4 or NaCl aerosols, typical pollutants in rural and marine environments, respectively. The samples exposed with and without the pollutants were compared after 1 and 2 weeks of the test. Optical transmittance and conductivity significantly degraded only for the samples exposed with the pollutants. Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy evidenced localized dissolution of the AZO film and chemical modification of the Al2O3 encapsulation. The most severe degradation was caused by (NH4)2SO4, which was attributed to the high stability of soluble [Zn (NH3)42+] complexes. The Al2O3 encapsulation improved chemical and physical stability of AZO in the presence of (NH4)2SO4 but not in the presence of NaCl. The latter can be explained by pitting corrosion of Al2O3. Optical transmission curves are coherent with the AZO layer thinning in the presence of NaCl and very localized AZO dissolution (most likely grain boundary etching) in the presence of (NH4)2SO4. The enhanced degradation of encapsulated AZO in the presence of atmospheric aerosol pollutants suggests that they cannot be neglected in the evaluation of barrier protection capacities of novel encapsulates and, more generally, in the outdoor durability assessment of novel photovoltaic materials and devices.
M1 muscarinic receptor activation decreases alcohol consumption via a reduction in consummatory behavior
Authors: Walker Leigh C. , Campbell Erin J. , Huckstep Kate L. , Chen Nicola A. , Langmead Christopher J. , Lawrence Andrew J.
Published: December 2021

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) have been shown to mediate alcohol consumption and seeking. Both M4 and M5 mAChRs have been highlighted as potential novel treatment targets for alcohol use disorders (AUD). Similarly, M1 mAChRs are expressed throughout reward circuitry, and their signaling has been implicated in cocaine consumption. However, whether the same effects are seen for alcohol consumption, or whether natural reward intake is inadvertently impacted is still unknown. To determine the role of M1 mAChRs in alcohol consumption, we tested operant self‐administration of alcohol under both fixed ratio (FR3) and progressive ratio (PR3‐4) schedules. Enhancing M1 mAChR signaling (via the M1 PAM‐Agonist PF‐06767832, 1 mg/kg, i.p.) reduced operant alcohol consumption on a fixed schedule but had no effect on motivation to acquire alcohol. To determine whether these actions were specific to alcohol, we examined the effects of M1 enhancement on natural reward (sucrose) self‐administration. Systemic administration of PF‐06767832 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) also reduced operant sucrose self‐administration, suggesting the actions of the M1 receptor may be non‐selective across drug and natural rewards. Finally, to understand whether this reduction extended to natural consummatory behaviors, we assessed home cage standard chow and water consumption. M1 enhancement via systemic PF‐06767832 administration reduced food and water consumption. Together our results suggest the M1 PAM‐agonist, PF‐06767832, non‐specifically reduces consummatory behaviors that are not associated with motivational strength for the reward. These data highlight the need to further characterize M1 agonists, PAMs, and PAM‐agonists, which may have varying degrees of utility in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders including AUD.
Cardioprotective effects of alpha‐mangostin on doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity in rats
Authors: Eisvand Farhad , Imenshahidi Mohsen , Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar Mahboobeh , Tabatabaei Yazdi Seyed Abbas , Rameshrad Maryam , Razavi Bibi Marjan , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: December 2021

The main adverse effect of doxorubicin is cardiotoxicity. Oxidative stress and apoptosis induction have been suggested as mechanisms involved in its cardiotoxicity. In this study, cardioprotective effects of alpha‐mangostin against doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity have been investigated in rats. Forty‐two rats were divided as follows: Control, doxorubicin (2 mg/kg every 48 hr), alpha‐mangostin (200 mg/kg), alpha‐mangostin (50, 100, 200 mg/kg) + doxorubicin (2 mg/kg every 48 hr), and vitamin E (200 IU/kg) + doxorubicin (2 mg/kg every 48 hr). Alpha‐mangostin was administered by gavage for 19 days, while doxorubicin (12 days) and vitamin E (19 days) were injected intraperitoneally. Doxorubicin decreased heart rate, increased electrocardiogram signal components duration and reduced systolic and diastolic arterial blood pressure, and caused histological damage in the heart of rats. Doxorubicin decreased heart weight and heart/body weight ratio, as well as elevated creatine phosphokinase isoenzyme and lactate dehydrogenase. Doxorubicin increased malondialdehyde, inflammatory biomarkers, and caspases 3 and 9 and decreased reduced glutathione content in heart tissue but co‐administration of alpha‐mangostin (100 mg/kg) restored all doxorubicin toxic effects. Results show that alpha‐mangostin has protective effects against doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity by antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects that may ameliorate doxorubicin cardiotoxicity in human chemotherapy without reduction in its anticancer effect.
Analysis of tendon tension and hysteresis by tendon twisting and development of anti‐twist tendon mechanism of robotic surgical instruments
Authors: Kong Dukyoo , Yang Un‐Je , Kim Chang‐Kyun , Ahn Jeongdo , Kwon Dong‐Soo
Published: December 2021

Background

Control of the joints of robotic surgical instruments is difficult owing to hysteresis, and tendon twisting due to axial rotation of surgical tools also causes hysteresis. Therefore, a new mechanism is needed to prevent tendon twisting.

Methods

Tendon tension and hysteresis change were analysed by observing the movement of the joint depending on whether the tendons twisted for the same input signal. An anti‐twist tendon mechanism to prevent twisting was developed. A 3‐mm needle driver applied with the proposed mechanism was manufactured.

Results

The anti‐twist mechanism makes no tension change because of twisting or friction between the tendon and the system, that is, the operating performance was the same regardless of rotation.

Conclusion

The proposed mechanism has been verified and can be applied to small surgical instruments 3 mm in size. These findings can be applied in the development of instruments for precise surgeries such as microsurgery.
Simultaneously Mitigating Anion and Cation Defects Both in Bulk and Interface for High‐Effective Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Xuping , Wu Jihuai , Zhang Tingting , Wang Deng , Jin Xiao , Xu Bing , Huang Zhen , Li Dongyu , Li Qinghua
Published: December 2021

Perovskite layer, as the origin of optical–electrical conversion of devices, plays a very important role in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, lots of lead cations and halogen anions defects inevitably exit in the bulk and surface of the perovskite layer. These defects, serve as nonradiative recombination centers, degrade the performance, and damage the stability of PSCs. Herein, a strategy that anion and cation defects on the interface and in the bulk of perovskites are simultaneously passivated by doping organic molecule 4‐aminomethyl tetrahydropyran (4‐AMPR) and the surface modification with 1‐chlorobutane (1‐CB) in/on the perovskite is demonstrated. The O atoms on 4‐AMPR can coordinate with the Pb vacancy and antisite Pb defects, as well as improve perovskite morphology. The volatilization of low‐boiling 1‐CB can passivate the halogen ion defects and promote the uniform nucleation of perovskite. The PSCs jointly optimized by 4‐AMPR and 1‐CB achieve a power conversion efficiency of 22.74% and retain 90.7% of the initial efficiency after storage in air environment (RH 10 ± 5%, 25 °C) for more than 1000 h. This research demonstrates a promising strategy for simultaneously mitigating anion and cation defects both in bulk and surface of perovskite layer and thus enhancing the performance and stability of the devices.
The need for stewardship of lands exposed by deglaciation from climate change
Authors: Zimmer Anaïs , Beach Timothy , Klein Julia A. , Recharte Bullard Jorge
Published: December 2021

Alpine glaciers worldwide will lose most of their volume by the end of the 21st century, placing alpine ecosystems and human populations at risk. The new lands that emerge from retreating glaciers provide a host of challenges for ecological and human adaptation to climate change. In these novel proglacial landscapes, ecological succession and natural hazards interplay with local agriculture, hydroelectric production, mining activities, and tourism. Research has emphasized the importance of understanding adaptation around socio‐environmental systems, but regional and global management efforts that support local initiatives and connect novel proglacial landscapes to ecological, social, and cultural conservation opportunities are rare and nascent. The characteristics of these emerging lands reflect the nexus of alpine ecosystems with socio‐political histories. Often overlooked in glacial‐influenced systems are the interdependencies, feedbacks, and tradeoffs between these biophysical systems and local populations. There is no coordinated strategy to manage and anticipate these shifting dynamics, while affirming local practices and contexts. There is an opportunity to initiate a new conversation and co‐create a governance structure around these novel landscapes and develop a new framework suitable to the Anthropocene era. This article first synthesizes the rapid socio‐environmental changes that are occurring in proglacial landscapes. Second, we consider the need for integrating “bottom‐up” with “top‐down” approaches for the sustainable management of proglacial landscapes. Finally, we propose establishing a transdisciplinary initiative with policy‐related goals to further dialogues around the governance and sustainable management of proglacial landscapes. We call for increased cooperation between actors, sectors, and regions, favoring multiscale and integrated approaches.

This article is categorized under:

Climate, Ecology, and Conservation > Conservation Strategies
Equitable, effective, and feasible approaches for a prospective fossil fuel transition
Authors: Rempel Arthur , Gupta Joyeeta
Published: December 2021

Most fossil fuel resources must remain unused to comply with the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Scholars and policymakers debate which approaches should be undertaken to Leave Fossil Fuels Underground (LFFU). However, existing scholarship has not yet inventoried and evaluated the array of approaches to LFFU based on their effectiveness, equity, or feasibility. Hence, this review article asks: What lessons can we learn from reviewing scholarship on proposed approaches to leaving fossil fuels underground (LFFU)? We identify 28 unique LFFU approaches, of which only 12 are deemed environmentally effective (e.g., fossil fuel extraction taxes, bans and moratoria, and financial swaps); eight involve moderate‐to‐high (non‐)monetary costs, and only four are deemed entirely just and equitable. Of the 12 environmentally effective approaches: only three were deemed cost‐effective (regulating financial capital for fossil fuel projects, removing existing fossil fuel subsidies, and bans & moratoria); merely four were deemed equitable (asset write‐offs, retiring existing fossil infrastructure, pursuing court cases/litigation, and financial swaps); and all were deemed institutionally problematic in terms of their feasibility (six were challenging to implement as they threatened the vested interests of powerful stakeholder groups). Moreover, the reviewed scholarship draws heavily on empirical studies of how these LFFU approaches can be optimized in European, North American, and Chinese contexts; fewer studies have explored the effectiveness and fairness of LFFU approaches in the South and/or in a North–South context. Future research should particularly focus on North–South fossil fuel financial flows, which have received comparatively little attention.

This article is categorized under:

The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation > Decarbonizing Energy and/or Reducing Demand
Locating the anemometers of the US ASOS network and classifying their local shelter
Authors: Cook Nicholas John
Published: December 2021

Locations of the 864 Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) anemometers in the contiguous USA were found from Google Earth images and assigned the WMO class for local shelter. 352 (41%) locations are Class 1, requiring no correction and 308 (36%) are Class 2 and correctable by routine methods. The remainder classify as 3 to 5, requiring special methods or are un‐correctable. The WMO classification is shown to be coarse and over‐conservative. A proposed alternative procedure admits more stations into Class 1 or 2.
Reinterpreting the ATLAS bounds on heavy neutral leptons in a realistic neutrino oscillation model
Authors: Tastet J.-L. , Ruchayskiy O. , Timiryasov I.
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Heavy neutral leptons (HNLs) are hypothetical particles, motivated in the first place by their ability to explain neutrino oscillations. Experimental searches for HNLs are typically conducted under the assumption of a single HNL mixing with a single neutrino flavor. However, the resulting exclusion limits may not directly constrain the corresponding mixing angles in realistic HNL models — those which can explain neutrino oscillations. The reinterpretation of the results of these experimental searches turns out to be a non-trivial task, that requires significant knowledge of the details of the experiment. In this work, we perform a reinterpretation of the latest ATLAS search for HNLs decaying promptly to a tri-lepton final state. We show that in a realistic model with two HNLs, the actual limits can vary by several orders of magnitude depending on the free parameters of the model. Marginalizing over the unknown model parameters leads to an exclusion limit on the total mixing angle which can be up to 3 orders of magnitude weaker than the limits reported in ref. [1]. This demonstrates that the reinterpretation of results from experimental searches is a necessary step to obtain meaningful limits on realistic models. We detail a few steps that can be taken by experimental collaborations in order to simplify the reuse of their results.
Stochastic gravity and turbulence
Authors: Waeber Sebastian , Yarom Amos
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We study the ensemble average of the thermal expectation value of an energy momentum tensor in the presence of a random external metric. In a holographic setup this quantity can be read off of the near boundary behavior of the metric in a stochastic theory of gravity. By numerically solving the associated Einstein equations and mapping the result to the dual boundary theory, we find that the non relativistic energy power spectrum exhibits a power law behavior as expected by the theory of Kolmogorov and Kraichnan.
Non-equilibrium dynamics of a scalar field with quantum backreaction
Authors: Kainulainen Kimmo , Koskivaara Olli
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We study the dynamical evolution of coupled one- and two-point functions of a scalar field in the 2PI framework at the Hartree approximation, including backreaction from out-of-equilibrium modes. We renormalize the 2PI equations of motion in an on-shell scheme in terms of physical parameters. We present the Hartree-resummed renormalized effective potential at finite temperature and critically discuss the role of the effective potential in a non-equilibrium system. We follow the decay and thermalization of a scalar field from an initial cold state with all energy stored in the potential, into a fully thermalized system with a finite temperature. We identify the non-perturbative processes of parametric resonance and spinodal instability taking place during the reheating stage. In particular we study the unstable modes in the region where the vacuum 1PI effective action becomes complex and show that such spinodal modes can have a dramatic effect on the evolution of the one-point function. Our methods can be easily adapted to simulate reheating at the end of inflation.
Low-energy probes of sterile neutrino transition magnetic moments
Authors: Miranda O. G. , Papoulias D. K. , Sanders O. , Tórtola M. , Valle J. W. F.
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Sterile neutrinos with keV-MeV masses and non-zero transition magnetic moments can be probed through low-energy nuclear or electron recoil measurements. Here we determine the sensitivities of current and future searches, showing how they can probe a previously unexplored parameter region. Future coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEνNS) or elastic neutrino-electron scattering (EνES) experiments using a monochromatic 51Cr source can fully probe the region indicated by the recent XENON1T excess.
A Multiplication Technique for the Factorization of Bivariate Quaternionic Polynomials
Authors: Lercher Johanna , Schröcker Hans-Peter
Published: December 2021

We consider bivariate polynomials over the skew field of quaternions, where the indeterminates commute with all coefficients and with each other. We analyze existence ofunivariatefactorizations, that is, factorizations with univariate linear factors. A necessary condition for existence of univariate factorizations is factorization of the norm polynomial into a product of univariate polynomials. This condition is, however, not sufficient. Our central result states that univariate factorizations exist after multiplication with a suitable univariate real polynomial as long as the necessary factorization condition is fulfilled. We present an algorithm for computing this real polynomial and a corresponding univariate factorization. If a univariate factorization of the original polynomial exists, a suitable input of the algorithm produces a constant multiplication factor, thus giving ana posterioricondition for existence of univariate factorizations. Some factorizations obtained in this way are of interest in mechanism science. We present an example of a curious closed-loop mechanism with eight revolute joints.
Generalized periodic orbits of the time-periodically forced Kepler problem accumulating at the center and of circular and elliptic restricted three-body problems
Authors: Zhao Lei
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we consider a time-periodically forced Kepler problem in any dimension, with an external force which we only assume to be regular in a neighborhood of the attractive center. We prove that there exist infinitely many periodic orbits in this system, with possible double collisions with the center regularized, which accumulate at the attractive center. The result is obtained via a localization argument combined with a result on $$C^{1}$$

C
1

-persistence of closed orbits by a local homotopy-stretching argument. Consequently, by formulating the circular and elliptic restricted three-body problems of any dimension as time-periodically forced Kepler problems, we obtain that there exist infinitely many periodic orbits, with possible double collisions with the primaries regularized, accumulating at each of the primaries.
Ridge-type roughness: from turbulent channel flow to internal combustion engine
Authors: von Deyn Lars H. , Schmidt Marius , Örlü Ramis , Stroh Alexander , Kriegseis Jochen , Böhm Benjamin , Frohnapfel Bettina
Published: December 2021

While existing engineering tools enable us to predict how homogeneous surface roughness alters drag and heat transfer of near-wall turbulent flows to a certain extent, these tools cannot be reliably applied for heterogeneous rough surfaces. Nevertheless, heterogeneous roughness is a key feature of many applications. In the present work we focus on spanwise heterogeneous roughness, which is known to introduce large-scale secondary motions that can strongly alter the near-wall turbulent flow. While these secondary motions are mostly investigated in canonical turbulent shear flows, we show that ridge-type roughness—one of the two widely investigated types of spanwise heterogeneous roughness—also induces secondary motions in the turbulent flow inside a combustion engine. This indicates that large scale secondary motions can also be found in technical flows, which neither represent classical turbulent equilibrium boundary layers nor are in a statistically steady state. In addition, as the first step towards improved drag predictions for heterogeneous rough surfaces, the Reynolds number dependency of the friction factor for ridge-type roughness is presented.

Graphic abstract
Comment on “Free surface tension in incompressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics (ISPH)” [Comput. Mech. 2020, 65, 487–502]
Authors: Thiery Fabian , Fritz Fabian , Adams Nikolaus A. , Adami Stefan
Published: December 2021

We comment on a recent article [Comput. Mech. 2020, 65, 487–502] about surface-tension modeling for free-surface flows with Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics. The authors motivate part of their work related to a novel principal curvature approximation by the wrong claim that the classical curvature formulation in SPH overestimates the curvature in 3D by a factor of 2. In this note we confirm the correctness of the classical formulation and point out the misconception of the commented article.
Vadose zone modeling to identify controls on groundwater recharge in an unconfined granular aquifer in a cold and humid environment with different meteorological data sources
Authors: Bruneau Sabrina , Barbecot Florent , Larocque Marie , Horoi Viorel , Coquet Yves , Guillon Sophie
Published: December 2021

Groundwater recharge (GR) is a complex process that is difficult to quantify. Increasing attention has been given to unsaturated zone modeling to estimate GR and better understand the processes controlling it. Continuous soil-moisture time series have been shown to provide valuable information in this regard. The objectives of this study were to (i) analyze the processes and factors controlling GR in an unconfined granular aquifer in a cold and humid environment and (ii) assess the uncertainties associated with the use of data from different sources. Soil moisture data monitored over three years at three experimental sites in southern Quebec (Canada) were used to calibrate the HYDRUS-1D model and to estimate ranges of possible GR in a region where groundwater is increasingly used as a source of fresh water. The simulations identified and quantified important factors responsible for the near-surface water balance that leads to GR. The resulting GR estimates from 2016 to 2018 showed marked differences between the three sites, with values ranging from 347 to 735 mm/y. Mean GR for the three sites was 517 mm/y for 2016–2018 and 455 mm/y for the previous 12-year period. GR was shown to depend on monthly variations in precipitation and on soil textural parameters in the root zone, both controlling soil-water retention and evapotranspiration. Monthly recharge patterns showed distinct preferential GR periods during the spring snowmelt (38–45% of precipitation) and in the fall (29% of precipitation). The use of different meteorological datasets was shown to influence the GR estimates.
Furfural Oxidation with Hydrogen Peroxide Over ZSM-5 Based Micro-Mesoporous Aluminosilicates
Authors: Shcherban Nataliya D. , Barakov Roman Yu. , Sergiienko Sergii A. , Eränen Kari , Wärnå Johan , Murzin Dmitry Yu.
Published: December 2021

Micro-mesoporous aluminosilicates based on ZSM-5 zeolite, obtained by a dual template method, as well as in the presence of a dual-functional template (i.e. a Gemini-type surfactant), were tested in the oxidation of furfural with hydrogen peroxide. Even substantial changes in acidity and porosity of the catalysts result in minor variations of selectivity towards the desired products. Application of the synthesized zeolite-based materials in the oxidation of furfural with hydrogen peroxide leads to formation of 2(5H)-furanone (yield up to 28.5%) and succinic acid (up to 19.5%) as the main C4 reaction products. The kinetic model developed previously to treat the results for oxidation of furfural over sulfated zirconia was able to describe the data also for micro-mesoporous aluminosilicates.

Graphical Abstract
Design and Feasibility Verification of 6G Wireless Communication Systems with State of the Art Technologies
Authors: Dilli Ravilla
Published: December 2021

Frequencies above 100 GHz are the promising frequency bands for 6G wireless communication systems because of the abundant unexplored and unused spectrum. The increasing global demand for ultra-high spectral efficiencies, data rates, speeds and bandwidths in next-generation wireless networks motivates the exploration of peak capabilities of massive MIMO (Multi–Input–Multi–Output) wireless access technology at THz bands (0.1–10 THz). The smaller wavelengths (order of microns) of these frequencies give an advantage of making high gain antennas with smaller physical dimensions and allows massive spatial multiplexing. This paper presents the design of ultra-massive MIMO (ultra-mMIMO) hybrid beamforming system for multi users and its feasibility to function at THz frequency bands. The functionality of the proposed system is verified at higher order modulation schemes to achieve higher spectral efficiencies using performance metrics that includes error vector magnitude, symbol constellations, and antenna array radiation beams. The performance results suggest to use a particular mMIMO antenna configuration based on number of independent data streams per user and strongly recommended to use higher number of data streams per user in order to achieve higher throughputs that satisfy the needs of 6G wireless systems. Also the performance of the proposed system at 0.14 THz is compared with mmWave systems that operate at 28 GHz and 73 GHz bands to justify the feasibility of the proposed work.
African Asylum Seekers in Europe: The Interplay between Foreign Aid and Governance in Origin Countries
Authors: Ripollés Jordi , Martínez-Zarzoso Inmaculada
Published: December 2021

This paper empirically investigates the effects of governance quality on the number of African asylum seekers in Europe over the period 1996–2018 and evaluates the extent to which official development aid acts as a catalyst. With this purpose in mind, different gravity model specifications and estimation approaches have been employed. The obtained results suggest that the asylum flows are strongly determined by governance quality in the country of origin and that this effect does depend on the amount of foreign aid received from developed countries. Moreover, it is also found that development aid is only effective in reducing asylum applications coming from countries with good governance. Moreover, we find no differences in the estimated elasticity of foreign aid on asylum claims for the beneficiaries of the European Union Emergency Trust Fund (EUTF) for Africa, the main aim of which has been to improve living conditions of potential migrants in their countries of origin.
The melting properties of D-α-glucose, D-β-fructose, D-sucrose, D-α-galactose, and D-α-xylose and their solubility in water: A revision
Authors: Chua Yeong Zen , Do Hoang Tam , Kumar Aarti , Hallermann Moritz , Zaitsau Dzmitry , Schick Christoph , Held Christoph
Published: December 2021

Saccharides are still commonly isolated from biological feedstock by crystallization from aqueous solutions. Precise thermodynamic data on solubility are essential to optimize the downstream crystallization process. Solubility modeling, in turn, requires knowledge of melting properties. In the first part of this work, following our previous work on amino acids and peptides, D-α-glucose, D-β-fructose, D-sucrose, D-α-galactose, and D-α-xylose were investigated with Fast Scanning Calorimetry (FSC) in a wide scanning rate range (2000 K·s−1 to 10000 K·s−1). Using the experimental melting properties of saccharides from FSC allowed successfully modeling aqueous solubility for D-sucrose and D-α-galactose with the equation of state PC-SAFT. This provides cross-validation of the measurement methods to determine accurate experimental melting properties with FSC. Unexpectedly, the experimental FSC melting temperatures, extrapolated to zero scanning rates for thermal lag correction, were higher than results determined with DSC and available literature data. To clarify this inconsistency, FSC measurements towards low scanning rates from 10000 K·s−1 to 1 K·s−1 (D-α-glucose, D-β-fructose, D-sucrose) overlapping with the scanning rates of DSC and literature data were combined. At scanning rates below 1000 K·s−1, the melting properties followed a consistent non-linear trend, observed in both the FSC and the literature data. In order to understand the non-linear decrease of apparent melting temperatures with decreasing heating rate, the endothermic peaks were investigated in terms of isoconversional kinetics. The activation energies in the non-linear dependency region are in the range of $$300<{E}_{A}< 600 {\text{kJ}}\bullet {\text{mo}}{\text{l}}^{-1}$$

300
<

E
A

<
600
kJ
∙

mol

-
1

. These values are higher than the enthalpy of sublimation for D-α-glucose, indicating that the non-linear behavior does not have a physical nature but attributes to chemical processes corresponding to the decomposition of molecular compounds within the crystal lattice before melting. The melting properties reported in the literature, commonly determined with conventional methods such as DSC, lead to inaccurate results due to the decomposition of these biomolecules at low heating rates. In addition, the FSC results at lower scanning rates coincide with results from DSC and literature in the overlapping scanning rate range, further validating the accuracy of FSC measurements to determine reliable melting properties of thermally labile biomolecules. The experimental FSC melting properties determined at higher scanning rates are considered as the correct equilibrium melting properties, which are not influenced by any chemical processes. The combination of FSC and PC-SAFT opens the door to model solubility of solid compounds that commonly decompose before melting.
Neuronavigated repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation as novel mapping technique provides insights into language function in primary progressive aphasia
Authors: Mueller-Sarnowski Felix , Sollmann Nico , Schröder Axel , Houri Leen , Ille Sebastian , Grimmer Timo , Krieg Sandro M. , Diehl-Schmid Janine
Published: December 2021

Navigated repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (nrTMS) is an innovative technique that provides insight into language function with high accuracy in time and space. So far, nrTMS has mainly been applied in presurgical language mapping of patients with intracranial neoplasms. For the present study, nrTMS was used for language mapping in primary progressive aphasia (PPA). Seven patients (median age: 70 years, 4 males) with the non-fluent variant of PPA (nfvPPA) were included in this pilot study. Trains of nrTMS (5 Hz, 100% resting motor threshold) caused virtual lesions at 46 standardized cortical stimulation targets per hemisphere. Patients’ errors in a naming task during stimulation were counted. The majority of errors induced occurred during frontal lobe stimulation (34.3%). Timing errors and non-responses were most frequent. More errors were induced in the right hemisphere (58%) than in the left hemisphere (42%). Mapping was tolerated by all patients, however, discomfort or pain was reported for stimulation of frontal areas. The elevated right-hemispheric error rate in our study could be due to a partial shift of language function to the right hemisphere in neurodegenerative aphasia during the course of disease and therefore points to the existence of neuronal plasticity in nfvPPA. While this is an interesting finding for neurodegenerative disorders per se, its promotion might also harbor future therapeutic targets.
Anthracene modified graphene for C60/C70 fullerenes capture and construction of energy storage materials
Authors: Fedorczyk Agata , Krogul-Sobczak Agnieszka , Piotrowski Piotr
Published: December 2021

Graphene functionalized with dianthracene malonate was synthesized and used subsequently for construction of covalently bound graphene-fullerene hybrid nanomaterials. For this purpose, novel approach of Diels–Alder reaction of C60/C70 fullerene cores with anthracene moieties previously introduced onto graphene surface was successfully employed. Structure and composition of obtained graphene and its derivatives were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and FT-IR spectroscopy. Obtained results revealed that both C60 and C70 fullerenes were found to be capable of formation desired Diels–Alder adducts, yielding products of different morphology. Capacitive properties of the synthesized energy storage nanomaterials were determined by means of cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge/discharge (GCD) measurements, revealing that functionalization of graphene with C60 moieties enhances its energy storage properties.
Autophagy Inhibition Reduces Irradiation-Induced Subcortical White Matter Injury Not by Reducing Inflammation, but by Increasing Mitochondrial Fusion and Inhibiting Mitochondrial Fission
Authors: Wang Yafeng , Xu Yiran , Zhou Kai , Zhang Shan , Wang Yong , Li Tao , Xie Cuicui , Zhang Xiaoli , Song Juan , Wang Xiaoyang , Zhu Changlian
Published: December 2021

Radiotherapy is an effective tool in the treatment of malignant brain tumors, but irradiation-induced late-onset toxicity remains a major problem. The purpose of this study was to investigate if genetic inhibition of autophagy has an impact on subcortical white matter development in the juvenile mouse brain after irradiation. Ten-day-old selective neural Atg7 knockout (KO) mice and wild-type (WT) littermates were subjected to a single 6-Gy dose of whole-brain irradiation and evaluated at 5 days after irradiation. Neural Atg7 deficiency partially prevented myelin disruption compared to the WT mice after irradiation, as indicated by myelin basic protein staining. Irradiation induced oligodendrocyte progenitor cell loss in the subcortical white matter, and Atg7 deficiency partly prevented this. There was no significant change between the KO and WT mice in the number of microglia and astrocytes in the subcortical white matter after irradiation. Transcriptome analysis showed that the GO mitochondrial gene expression pathway was significantly enriched in the differentially expressed genes between the KO and WT group after irradiation. Compared with WT mice, expression of the mitochondrial fusion protein OPA1 and phosphorylation of the mitochondrial fission protein DRP1 (P-DRP1) were dramatically decreased in KO mice under physiological conditions. The protein levels of OPA1and P-DRP1 showed no differences in WT mice between the non-irradiated group and the irradiated group but had remarkably increased levels in the KO mice after irradiation. These results indicate that inhibition of autophagy reduces irradiation-induced subcortical white matter injury not by reducing inflammation, but by increasing mitochondrial fusion and inhibiting mitochondrial fission.
Lack of p62 Impairs Glycogen Aggregation and Exacerbates Pathology in a Mouse Model of Myoclonic Epilepsy of Lafora
Authors: Pellegrini Pasquale , Hervera Arnau , Varea Olga , Brewer M. Kathryn , López-Soldado Iliana , Guitart Anna , Aguilera Mònica , Prats Neus , del Río José Antonio , Guinovart Joan J. , Duran Jordi
Published: December 2021

Lafora disease (LD) is a fatal childhood-onset dementia characterized by the extensive accumulation of glycogen aggregates—the so-called Lafora Bodies (LBs)—in several organs. The accumulation of LBs in the brain underlies the neurological phenotype of the disease. LBs are composed of abnormal glycogen and various associated proteins, including p62, an autophagy adaptor that participates in the aggregation and clearance of misfolded proteins. To study the role of p62 in the formation of LBs and its participation in the pathology of LD, we generated a mouse model of the disease (malinKO) lacking p62. Deletion of p62 prevented LB accumulation in skeletal muscle and cardiac tissue. In the brain, the absence of p62 altered LB morphology and increased susceptibility to epilepsy. These results demonstrate that p62 participates in the formation of LBs and suggest that the sequestration of abnormal glycogen into LBs is a protective mechanism through which it reduces the deleterious consequences of its accumulation in the brain.
Four Puzzles of Reputation-Based Cooperation
Authors: Giardini Francesca , Balliet Daniel , Power Eleanor A. , Számadó Szabolcs , Takács Károly
Published: December 2021

Research in various disciplines has highlighted that humans are uniquely able to solve the problem of cooperation through the informal mechanisms of reputation and gossip. Reputation coordinates the evaluative judgments of individuals about one another. Direct observation of actions and communication are the essential routes that are used to establish and update reputations. In large groups, where opportunities for direct observation are limited, gossip becomes an important channel to share individual perceptions and evaluations of others that can be used to condition cooperative action. Although reputation and gossip might consequently support large-scale human cooperation, four puzzles need to be resolved to understand the operation of reputation-based mechanisms. First, we need empirical evidence of the processes and content that form reputations and how this may vary cross-culturally. Second, we lack an understanding of how reputation is determined from the muddle of imperfect, biased inputs people receive. Third, coordination between individuals is only possible if reputation sharing and signaling is to a large extent reliable and valid. Communication, however, is not necessarily honest and reliable, so theoretical and empirical work is needed to understand how gossip and reputation can effectively promote cooperation despite the circulation of dishonest gossip. Fourth, reputation is not constructed in a social vacuum; hence we need a better understanding of the way in which the structure of interactions affects the efficiency of gossip for establishing reputations and fostering cooperation.
Exploring Causal Relationships for Geoheritage Interpretation — Variable Effects of Cenozoic Volcanism in Central European Sedimentary Tablelands
Authors: Migoń Piotr , Pijet-Migoń Edyta
Published: December 2021

Modern conceptual approach to geointerpretation and geoeducation emphasizes the holistic understanding of the environment and attends to linkages between various abiotic, biotic, and cultural components. In this paper, we highlight multiple relationships between Cenozoic volcanism and host sedimentary rocks, mainly sandstones of Cretaceous age, which can be explored in the context of geotourism and geoeducation in several Central European geoparks (Bohemian Paradise UNESCO Global Geopark, Land of Extinct Volcanoes Aspiring Geopark, Ralsko National Geopark) and their surroundings. These include the effects of magmatism on sandstones, with further consequences for landform development at different spatial scales, the origin of mineral resources, underpinning of biological diversity, and specific land use contrasts. Existing interpretation provisions are reviewed, and a three-tiered framework to show these different linkages is proposed. It is argued that different, but complementary themes can be addressed at the landscape, landform, and individual outcrop (geosite) level.
Loss of USP28 and SPINT2 expression promotes cancer cell survival after whole genome doubling
Authors: Bernhard Sara Vanessa , Seget-Trzensiok Katarzyna , Kuffer Christian , Krastev Dragomir B. , Stautmeister Lisa-Marie , Theis Mirko , Keuper Kristina , Boekenkamp Jan-Eric , Kschischo Maik , Buchholz Frank , Storchova Zuzana
Published: December 2021

Background

Whole genome doubling is a frequent event during cancer evolution and shapes the cancer genome due to the occurrence of chromosomal instability. Yet, erroneously arising human tetraploid cells usually do not proliferate due to p53 activation that leads to CDKN1A expression, cell cycle arrest, senescence and/or apoptosis.

Methods

To uncover the barriers that block the proliferation of tetraploids, we performed a RNAi mediated genome-wide screen in a human colorectal cancer cell line (HCT116).

Results

We identified 140 genes whose depletion improved the survival of tetraploid cells and characterized in depth two of them: SPINT2 and USP28. We found that SPINT2 is a general regulator of CDKN1A transcription via histone acetylation. Using mass spectrometry and immunoprecipitation, we found that USP28 interacts with NuMA1 and affects centrosome clustering. Tetraploid cells accumulate DNA damage and loss of USP28 reduces checkpoint activation, thus facilitating their proliferation.

Conclusions

Our results indicate three aspects that contribute to the survival of tetraploid cells: (i) increased mitogenic signaling and reduced expression of cell cycle inhibitors, (ii) the ability to establish functional bipolar spindles and (iii) reduced DNA damage signaling.
The Big Five personality traits and regularity of lifetime dental visit attendance: evidence of the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE)
Authors: Aarabi Ghazal , Walther Carolin , Bunte Kübra , Spinler Kristin , Buczak-Stec Elzbieta , König Hans-Helmut , Hajek André
Published: December 2021

Background

Regular dental visits are essential for the prevention, early detection and treatment of worldwide highly prevalent oral diseases. Personality traits were previously associated with treatment compliance, medication adherence and regular doctor visits, however, the link between personality traits and regular dental visit attendance remains largely unexplored. Thus, the objective of this study is to clarify this link.

Methods

Data (wave 7) of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) were used, focusing on Germany (n = 2822). Personality was assessed using the 10-item Big Five Inventory (BFI-10). Regular dental visits were assessed. Multiple logistic regressions were used, adjusting for various covariates.

Results

Majority of the participants (84%) reported to attend regular dental visits during lifetime. Regularity of lifetime dental visit attendance was positively and significantly associated with increased extraversion [OR 1.13, 95% CI (1.01–1.26)], increased conscientiousness [OR 1.26, 95% CI (1.10–1.44)], and increased openness to experience [OR 1.12, 95% CI (1.01–1.26)]. However, there was a lack of association with agreeableness and neuroticism. Moreover, the outcome measure was positively associated with younger age, being female, born in Germany, being married, higher education, being retired (compared to being homemaker), whereas it was not associated with obesity or chronic diseases.

Conclusions

Identification of personality traits that are associated with regular dental visits can support prevention, screening and clinical management of oral diseases. Further research in this field may facilitate the development and increase the incorporation of individualized concepts to enhance patient compliance and attendance, and thus the provision of oral and dental care services.