bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dibenzo[b,d]thiophene‐Cored Hole‐Transport Material with Passivation Effect Enabling the High‐Efficiency Planar p–i–n Perovskite Solar Cells with 83% Fill Factor
Authors: Zhang Jing , Sun Quan , Chen Qiaoyun , Wang Yikai , Zhou Yi , Song Bo , Jia Xuguang , Zhu Yuanyuan , Zhang Shuai , Yuan Ningyi , Ding Jianning , Li Yongfang
Published: October 2019

N2,N2,N8,N8‐tetrakis(4‐(methylthio)phenyl)dibenzo[b,d]thiophene‐2,8‐diamine (DBTMT) is synthesized from three commercial monomers for application as a promising dopant‐free hole‐transport material (HTM) in perovskite solar cells (pero‐SCs). The intrinsic properties (optical properties and electronic energy levels) of DBTMT are investigated, proving that DBTMT is a suitable HTM for the planar p–i–n pero‐SCs. The champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the optimized pero‐SCs (with structure as ITO/pristine DBTMT/MAPbI3/C60/BCP/Ag) reaches 21.12% with a fill factor (FF) of 83.25%, which is among the highest PCEs and FFs reported for planar p–i–n pero‐SCs based on dopant‐free HTMs. The Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra of MAPbI3 and DBTMT–MAPbI3 films demonstrate that there is an interaction between DBTMT and MAPbI3 at the interface through the sulfur atoms in DBTMT to passivate the defects, which is corresponding to the higher FF and PCE of the corresponding device.
The role of TRIM family proteins in the regulation of cancer stem cell self-renewal
Authors: Jaworska Anna Maria , Wlodarczyk Nikola Agata , Mackiewicz Andrzej , Czerwinska Patrycja
Published: October 2019

The tripartite-motif (TRIM) family of proteins represents one of the largest classes of putative single protein RING-finger E3 ubiquitin ligases. The members of this family are characterized by an N-terminal TRIM motif containing one RING-finger domain, one or two zinc-finger domains called B boxes (B1 box and B2 box), and a coiled-coil region. The TRIM motif can be found in isolation or in combination with a variety of C-terminal domains, and based on C-terminus, TRIM proteins are classified into 11 distinct groups. Because of the complex nature of TRIM proteins, they are implicated in a variety of cellular functions and biological processes, including regulation of cell proliferation, cell division and developmental processes, cancer transformation, regulation of cell metabolism, autophagocytosis, modification of chromatin status, regulation of gene transcription, post-translational modifications, and interactions with pathogens. Here, we demonstrate the specific activities of TRIM family proteins that contribute to the cancer stem cell phenotype. A growing body of evidence demonstrates that several TRIM members guarantee the acquisition of stem cell properties and the ability to sustain stem-like phenotype by cancer cells using distinct mechanisms. For other members, further work is needed to understand their full contribution to stem cell self-renewal. Identification of TRIM proteins that possess the potential to serve as therapeutic targets may result in the development of new therapeutic strategies. Finally, these strategies may result in the disruption of the machinery of stemness acquisition, which may prevent tumor growth, progression, and overcome the resistance to anticancer therapies.
Inherited cardiac diseases, pluripotent stem cells, and genome editing combined—the past, present, and future
Authors: Brink Lettine , Grandela Catarina , Mummery Christine L. , Davis Richard P.
Published: October 2019

Research on mechanisms underlying monogenic cardiac diseases such as primary arrhythmias and cardiomyopathies has until recently been hampered by inherent limitations of heterologous cell systems, where mutant genes are expressed in noncardiac cells, and physiological differences between humans and experimental animals. Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have proven to be a game changer by providing new opportunities for studying the disease in the specific cell type affected, namely the cardiomyocyte. hiPSCs are particularly valuable because not only can they be differentiated into unlimited numbers of these cells, but they also genetically match the individual from whom they were derived. The decade following their discovery showed the potential of hiPSCs for advancing our understanding of cardiovascular diseases, with key pathophysiological features of the patient being reflected in their corresponding hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes (the past). Now, recent advances in genome editing for repairing or introducing genetic mutations efficiently have enabled the disease etiology and pathogenesis of a particular genotype to be investigated (the present). Finally, we are beginning to witness the promise of hiPSC in personalized therapies for individual patients, as well as their application in identifying genetic variants responsible for or modifying the disease phenotype (the future). In this review, we discuss how hiPSCs could contribute to improving the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of an individual with a suspected genetic cardiac disease, thereby developing better risk stratification and clinical management strategies for these potentially lethal but treatable disorders.
Experimental research of efficiency of semi‐continuous and periodic biogas production processes by using chicken manure bioloadings
Authors: Baltrėnas Pranas , Kolodynskij Vitalij
Published: October 2019

Semi‐continuous and periodic biogas production processes were investigated. Dry chicken manure containing 40.0 ± 0.5% volatile solids (VS) was used for the production of bioloading. Semi‐continuous operation bioreactor and periodic bioreactor were used to implement research. Bioloading was additionally supplemented with newly prepared parts by removing 10% of decomposed mass and by adding the same amount of preheated mass every 7 days (semi‐continuous process). The process was periodic when the mass was completely decomposed (after 45 days of the experiment) and fully removed (bioreactor was loaded with a new portion of raw material to 100% of the working volume again). Total duration of both experiments was 90 days. The results show that biogas production by semi‐continuous process is more effective than periodic process due to higher total biogas yield (up to 39.7%) and higher methane yield (up to 33.5%). The maximum concentration of CH4 was determined during the periodic biogas production process, but the difference was only up to 2.1% (68.9% and 66.8%, respectively). Since the produced biogas had quite high average CO2 and H2S concentrations (<40.0% and 2.1 g/m3, respectively), it is recommended to use filter–adsorbers or biofilters. According to the results, semi‐continuous type bioreactor is more effective than periodic.

Practitioner points

Maximum CH4 concentration in biogas, produced during periodic process, is 2.1% higher than during the semi‐continuous process.

Average CH4 concentration in biogas, produced during periodic and semi‐continuous process, reaches 52.7% and 53.0%, respectively.

Biogas and methane yield (during periodic process) is 39.7% and 33.5% lower than during the semi‐continuous process.

CH4 concentration decreases (after supplement) about 6.0%–7.0% (during the semi‐continuous process), but increases to the next cyclic bioloading supplement.

Semi‐continuous biogas production process is more efficient than periodic.
Exocytosis of large-diameter lysosomes mediates interferon γ-induced relocation of MHC class II molecules toward the surface of astrocytes
Authors: Božić Mićo , Verkhratsky Alexei , Zorec Robert , Stenovec Matjaž
Published: October 2019

Astrocytes are the key homeostatic cells in the central nervous system; initiation of reactive astrogliosis contributes to neuroinflammation. Pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon γ (IFNγ) induces the expression of the major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII) molecules, involved in antigen presentation in reactive astrocytes. The pathway for MHCII delivery to the astrocyte plasma membrane, where MHCII present antigens, is unknown. Rat astrocytes in culture and in organotypic slices were exposed to IFNγ to induce reactive astrogliosis. Astrocytes were probed with optophysiologic tools to investigate subcellular localization of immunolabeled MHCII, and with electrophysiology to characterize interactions of single vesicles with the plasmalemma. In culture and in organotypic slices, IFNγ augmented the astrocytic expression of MHCII, which prominently co-localized with lysosomal marker LAMP1-EGFP, modestly co-localized with Rab7, and did not co-localize with endosomal markers Rab4A, EEA1, and TPC1. MHCII lysosomal localization was corroborated by treatment with the lysosomolytic agent glycyl-l-phenylalanine-β-naphthylamide, which reduced the number of MHCII-positive vesicles. The surface presence of MHCII was revealed by immunolabeling of live non-permeabilized cells. In IFNγ-treated astrocytes, an increased fraction of large-diameter exocytotic vesicles (lysosome-like vesicles) with prolonged fusion pore dwell time and larger pore conductance was recorded, whereas the rate of endocytosis was decreased. Stimulation with ATP, which triggers cytosolic calcium signaling, increased the frequency of exocytotic events, whereas the frequency of full endocytosis was further reduced. In IFNγ-treated astrocytes, MHCII-linked antigen surface presentation is mediated by increased lysosomal exocytosis, whereas surface retention of antigens is prolonged by concomitant inhibition of endocytosis.
Weak Poincaré Inequalities in the Absence of Spectral Gaps
Authors: Ben-Artzi Jonathan , Einav Amit
Published: October 2019

For generators of Markov semigroups which lack a spectral gap, it is shown how bounds on the density of states near zero lead to a so-called weak Poincaré inequality (WPI), originally introduced by Liggett (Ann Probab 19(3):935–959, 1991). Applications to general classes of constant coefficient pseudodifferential operators are studied. Particular examples are the heat semigroup and the semigroup generated by the fractional Laplacian in the whole space, where the optimal decay rates are recovered. Moreover, the classical Nash inequality appears as a special case of the WPI for the heat semigroup.
Value of radiomics in differential diagnosis of chromophobe renal cell carcinoma and renal oncocytoma
Authors: Li Yajuan , Huang Xialing , Xia Yuwei , Long Liling
Published: October 2019

Purpose

To explore the value of CT-enhanced quantitative features combined with machine learning for differential diagnosis of renal chromophobe cell carcinoma (chRCC) and renal oncocytoma (RO).

Methods

Sixty-one cases of renal tumors (chRCC = 44; RO = 17) that were pathologically confirmed at our hospital between 2008 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had undergone preoperative enhanced CT scans including the corticomedullary (CMP), nephrographic (NP), and excretory phases (EP) of contrast enhancement. Volumes of interest (VOIs), including lesions on the images, were manually delineated using the RadCloud platform. A LASSO regression algorithm was used to screen the image features extracted from all VOIs. Five machine learning classifications were trained to distinguish chRCC from RO by using a fivefold cross-validation strategy. The performance of the classifier was mainly evaluated by areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and accuracy.

Results

In total, 1029 features were extracted from CMP, NP, and EP. The LASSO regression algorithm was used to screen out the four, four, and six best features, respectively, and eight features were selected when CMP and NP were combined. All five classifiers had good diagnostic performance, with area under the curve (AUC) values greater than 0.850, and support vector machine (SVM) classifier showed a diagnostic accuracy of 0.945 (AUC 0.964 ± 0.054; sensitivity 0.999; specificity 0.800), showing the best performance.

Conclusions

Accurate preoperative differential diagnosis of chRCC and RO can be facilitated by a combination of CT-enhanced quantitative features and machine learning.
TAM-ing T cells in the tumor microenvironment: implications for TAM receptor targeting
Authors: Peeters Marlies J. W. , Rahbech Anne , thor Straten Per
Published: October 2019

The TAM receptors—TYRO3, AXL, MERTK—are pleiotropically expressed receptors in both healthy and diseased tissue. A complex of the ligands Protein S (PROS1) or Growth Arrest-Specific 6 (GAS6) with apoptotic phosphatidylserine activates the TAM receptors. Hence, this receptor family is essential for the efferocytosis of apoptotic material by antigen-presenting cells. In addition, TAM receptors are expressed by virtually all cells of the tumor microenvironment. They are also potent oncogenes, frequently overexpressed in cancer and involved in survival and therapy resistance. Due to their pro-oncogenic and immune-inhibitory traits, TAM receptors have emerged as promising targets for cancer therapy. Recently, TAM receptors have been described to function as costimulatory molecules on human T cells. TAM receptors’ ambivalent functions on many different cell types therefore make therapeutic targeting not straight-forward. In this review we summarize our current knowledge of the function of TAM receptors in the tumor microenvironment. We place particular focus on TAM receptors and the recently unraveled role of MERTK in activated T cells and potential consequences for anti-tumor immunity.
Delay in Source Control in Perforated Peptic Ulcer Leads to 6% Increased Risk of Death Per Hour: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Boyd‐Carson H. , Doleman B. , Cromwell D. , Lockwood S. , Williams J. P. , Tierney G. M. , Lund J. N. , Anderson I. D. ,   for The National Emergency Laparotomy Audit Collaboration
Published: October 2019

Background

Delay to theatre for patients with intra‐abdominal sepsis is cited as a particular risk factor for death. Our aim was to evaluate the potential relationship between hourly delay from admission to surgery and post‐operative mortality in patients with perforated peptic ulcer (PPU).

Methods

All patients entered in the National Emergency Laparotomy Audit who had an emergency laparotomy for PPU within 24 h of admission from December 2013 to November 2017 were included. Time to theatre from admission was modelled as a continuous variable in hours. Outcome was 90‐day mortality. Logistic regression adjusting for confounding factors was performed.

Results

3809 patients were included, and 90‐day mortality rate was 10.61%. Median time to theatre was 7.5 h (IQR 5–11.6 h). The odds of death increased with time to operation once adjustment for confounding variables was performed (per hour after admission adjusted OR 1.04 95% CI 1.02–1.07). In patients who were physiologically shocked (N = 334), there was an increase of 6% in risk‐adjusted odds of mortality for every hour Em Lap was delayed after admission (OR 1.06 95% CI 1.01–1.11).

Conclusion

Hourly delay to theatre in patients with PPU is independently associated with risk of death by 90 days. Therefore, we suggest that surgical source control should occur as soon as possible after admission regardless of time of day.
TRPM4-specific blocking antibody attenuates reperfusion injury in a rat model of stroke
Authors: Chen Bo , Gao Yahui , Wei Shunhui , Low See Wee , Ng Gandi , Yu Dejie , Tu Tian Ming , Soong Tuck Wah , Nilius Bernd , Liao Ping
Published: October 2019

Reperfusion therapy is currently the gold standard treatment for acute ischemic stroke. However, reperfusion injuries such as oedema and haemorrhagic transformation largely limit the use of this potent treatment to a narrow time window. Recently, transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRPM4) channel has emerged as a potential target for vascular protection in stroke management. Non-specificity and side effects are major concerns for current TRPM4 blockers. The present study was undertaken to develop a novel TRPM4 blocker for stroke management. We report the generation of a TRPM4-specific antibody M4P which binds to a region close to the channel pore. M4P could inhibit TRPM4 current and downregulate TRPM4 surface expression, therefore prevent hypoxia-induced cell swelling. In the rat model of 3-h stroke reperfusion, application of M4P at 2 h after occlusion ameliorated reperfusion injury by improving blood–brain barrier integrity, and enhanced functional recovery. Our results demonstrate that TRPM4 blockade could attenuate reperfusion injury in stroke recanalization. When applied together with reperfusion treatments, TRPM4 blocking antibody has the potential to extend the therapeutic time window for acute ischemic stroke.
The dietary management of calcium and phosphate in children with CKD stages 2-5 and on dialysis—clinical practice recommendation from the Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce
Authors: McAlister Louise , Pugh Pearl , Greenbaum Laurence , Haffner Dieter , Rees Lesley , Anderson Caroline , Desloovere An , Nelms Christina , Oosterveld Michiel , Paglialonga Fabio , Polderman Nonnie , Qizalbash Leila , Renken-Terhaerdt José , Tuokkola Jetta , Warady Bradley , Walle Johan Vande , Shaw Vanessa , Shroff Rukshana
Published: October 2019

In children with chronic kidney disease (CKD), optimal control of bone and mineral homeostasis is essential, not only for the prevention of debilitating skeletal complications and achieving adequate growth but also for preventing vascular calcification and cardiovascular disease. Complications of mineral bone disease (MBD) are common and contribute to the high morbidity and mortality seen in children with CKD. Although several studies describe the prevalence of abnormal calcium, phosphate, parathyroid hormone, and vitamin D levels as well as associated clinical and radiological complications and their medical management, little is known about the dietary requirements and management of calcium (Ca) and phosphate (P) in children with CKD. The Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce (PRNT) is an international team of pediatric renal dietitians and pediatric nephrologists, who develop clinical practice recommendations (CPRs) for the nutritional management of various aspects of renal disease management in children. We present CPRs for the dietary intake of Ca and P in children with CKD stages 2–5 and on dialysis (CKD2-5D), describing the common Ca- and P-containing foods, the assessment of dietary Ca and P intake, requirements for Ca and P in healthy children and necessary modifications for children with CKD2-5D, and dietary management of hypo- and hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia. The statements have been graded, and statements with a low grade or those that are opinion-based must be carefully considered and adapted to individual patient needs based on the clinical judgment of the treating physician and dietitian. These CPRs will be regularly audited and updated by the PRNT.
Geophysikalische Messungen am Zentrum am Berg
Authors: Hartl Irene , Schlögel Ingrid , Kusnirak David , Gegenhuber Nina , Wenighofer Robert , Radinger Alexander , Galler Robert
Published: October 2019

Die Vorauserkundung der geologischen Bedingungen vor der Ortsbrust stellt noch immer eine Herausforderung im Tunnelbau dar und bedarf zusätzlicher Forschung, um die derzeit existierenden Methoden zu erweitern und verbessern. Allerdings gestaltet sich diese Weiterentwicklung auf aktiven Tunnelbaustellen oft schwierig, da sie mit einer Behinderung der Vortriebsarbeiten verbunden ist. Das neu errichtete Zentrum am Berg bietet eine Möglichkeit, diesem Problem zu begegnen. Die maßstäbliche Großforschungsanlage in Eisenerz bietet Raum, um solche Experimente in einer realen Umgebung durchzuführen. Die ersten Daten (Refraktionstomographie, passives seismisches Monitoring, Bohrlochradar) wurden bereits vortriebsbegleitend erhoben. Um die Mächtigkeit der plastischen Zone festzustellen, wurden Bohrlochradarmessungen an zwei radialen Messquerschnitten sowie Refraktionstomographien an zwei Abschnitten entlang der Tunnelwand aufgenommen. Für die Korrelation petrophysikalischer und geotechnischer Parameter wurden darüber hinaus Laborversuche durchgeführt. Das passive seismische Monitoring wurde während des konventionellen Vortriebs eingesetzt, um die Signale der einzelnen Arbeitsschritte zu analysieren und die Eignung des Bohrsignals als seismische Quelle näher zu beleuchten.
Efficient and effective OCR engine training
Authors: Clausner Christian , Antonacopoulos Apostolos , Pletschacher Stefan
Published: October 2019

We present an efficient and effective approach to train OCR engines using the Aletheia document analysis system. All components required for training are seamlessly integrated into Aletheia: training data preparation, the OCR engine’s training processes themselves, text recognition, and quantitative evaluation of the trained engine. Such a comprehensive training and evaluation system, guided through a GUI, allows for iterative incremental training to achieve best results. The widely used Tesseract OCR engine is used as a case study to demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed approach. Experimental results are presented validating the training approach with two different historical datasets, representative of recent significant digitisation projects. The impact of different training strategies and training data requirements is presented in detail.
Turbulent Combustion Modelling and Experiments: Recent Trends and Developments
Authors: Giusti A. , Mastorakos E.
Published: October 2019

The development of better laser-based experimental methods and the fast rise in computer power has created an unprecedented shift in turbulent combustion research. The range of species and quantities measured and the advent of kHz-level planar diagnostics are now providing great insights in important phenomena and applications such as local and global extinction, pollutants, and spray combustion that were hitherto unavailable. In simulations, the shift to LES allows better representation of the turbulent flow in complex geometries, but despite the fact that the grid size is smaller than in RANS, the push towards realistic conditions and the need to include more detailed chemistry that includes very fast species and thin reaction zones emphasize the necessity of a sub-grid turbulent combustion model. The paper discusses examples from current research with experiments and modelling that focus on flame transients (self-excited oscillations, local extinction), sprays, soot emissions, and on practical applications. These demonstrate how current models are being validated by experimental data and the concerted efforts the community is taking to promote the modelling tools to industry. In addition, the various coordinated International Workshops on non-premixed, premixed, and spray flames, and on soot are discussed and some of their target flames are explored. These comprise flames that are relatively simple to describe from a fluid mechanics perspective but contain difficult-to-model combustion problems such as extinction, pollutants and multi-mode reaction zones. Recently, swirl spray flames, which are more representative of industrial devices, have been added to the target flames. Typically, good agreement is found with LES and some combustion models such as the progress variable - mixture fraction flamelet model, the Conditional Moment Closure, and the Transported PDF method, but predicting soot emissions and the condition of complete extinction in complex geometries is still elusive.
Mu-Suppression as an Indicator of Empathic Processes in Lesbian, Gay, and Heterosexual Adults
Authors: Lübke Katrin T. , Sachse Charlotte , Hoenen Matthias , Pause Bettina M.
Published: October 2019

Self-reported empathy differs with gender and sexual orientation. The current study investigated whether mu-suppression, reflecting brain activity especially related to state empathy, also is modulated by gender and sexual orientation. Pictures of painful and non-painful actions were presented to 20 lesbians, 20 gay men, 20 heterosexual men and 20 heterosexual women, while EEG was recorded. Individual peak frequencies of mu-activity (electrodes C3, C4) were detected within the 6–11 Hz band for each participant, and mu-suppression indices were calculated. Further, verbal indicators of state empathy (pain ratings) and compassion were assessed. Only heterosexual individuals showed the typical pattern of enhanced mu-suppression in response to painful relative to non-painful pictures. Lesbian women and gay men did not show a differential mu-response. Moreover, they felt less compassion compared to heterosexual individuals. In line with this finding, the more compassion the participants reported, the stronger the mu-suppression in response to painful relative to non-painful pictures was. Pain ratings did not vary with sexual orientation. The lesser compassion reported by lesbian women and gay men is discussed as a mediator of their non-differential mu-suppression response. It is hypothesized that this pattern might relate to gay men and lesbian women tending to perceive the anonymous depicted actors as outgroup members, hence showing less compassion and reduced mu-suppression. As empathy is often related to negative feelings (empathic stress), a clear distinction between individuals to empathize with versus individuals not to emphasize with may well be an adaptive feature in same-sex oriented individuals.
The Role of Ethical Perceptions in Consumers’ Participation and Value Co-creation on Sharing Economy Platforms
Authors: Nadeem Waqar , Juntunen Mari , Hajli Nick , Tajvidi Mina
Published: October 2019

Consumers’ participation on sharing economy platforms is crucial for the success of the products, services, and companies on those platforms. The participation of consumers enables companies to not only exist, but also to create value for consumers. The sharing economy has witnessed enormous growth in recent years and consumers’ concerns regarding the ethics surrounding these platforms have also risen considerably. The vast majority of the previous research on this topic is either conceptual and focused on organizational aspects, or only discusses privacy and security issues, thus providing a very limited scope of discussion. Therefore, drawing on the marketing and business ethics literature, the present study takes into account a multidimensional view of ethical issues surrounding consumers’ participation on sharing economy platforms. Findings reveal that privacy, security, shared value, fulfillment/reliability and service recovery are the strongest determinants of consumers’ ethical perceptions. These aspects strongly predict the consumers’ value co-creation intentions. Consumers’ participation also predicts their intention to engage in co-creating value, but this effect is stronger with the mediating role of the consumer’s ethical perceptions. The theoretical and managerial implications are also discussed.
Perception of Community Pharmacists in Malaysia About Mental Healthcare and Barriers to Providing Pharmaceutical Care Services to Patients with Mental Disorders
Authors: Wong Yin Xuan , Khan Tahir Mehmood , Wong Zhi Jean , Ab Rahman Ab Fatah , Jacob Sabrina Anne
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to assess community pharmacists’ (CPs) perceptions toward mental healthcare, and the barriers faced in providing pharmaceutical care (PC) services to these patients. A 40-item survey was posted to CPs. Ninety-six pharmacists participated. The majority (84.2%) agreed there is a role for CPs to play in mental health care, while approximately 60% agreed it is their responsibility to provide PC to these patients. The biggest barrier to providing this service is the lack of knowledge, cited by close to 50% of respondents. This corresponds with the revelation that close to 60% believe that they have a poor or fair understanding of mental disorders. About 30% of respondents said they do not stock psychotropic drugs at all, mainly due to medico-legal reasons, and low prescription requests. Our findings highlight the need for more training of CPs in managing patients with mental disorders.
Genotype by environment interaction for seeds yield in pea (Pisum sativum L.) using additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model
Authors: Bocianowski Jan , Księżak Jerzy , Nowosad Kamila
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the genotype by environment interaction using the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model for seeds yield of pea cultivars grown in Poland. Twelve pea (Pisum sativum L.) cultivars: Bohun, Boruta, Cysterski, Ezop, Kavalir, Lasso, Medal, Santana, Tarchalska, Terno, Wenus and Zekon were evaluated in 20 environments (ten locations in 2 years). The experiment was laid out as randomized complete block design with three replicates. Seeds yield ranged from 26.10 dt ha−1 (for Wenus in Radostowo 2011) to 79.73 dt ha−1 (for Lasso in Słupia 2010), with an average of 50.70 dt ha−1. AMMI analyses revealed significant genotype and environmental effects as well as genotype-by-environment interaction with respect to seeds yield. In the analysis of variance, 89.19% of the total seeds yield variation was explained by environment, 1.65% by differences between genotypes, and 8.33% by GE interaction. The cultivar Terno is the highest stability. The cultivar Tarchalska is recommended for further inclusion in the breeding program because its stability and the highest averages of seeds yield.
Epistemic Diversity and the Question of Lingua Franca in Science and Philosophy
Authors: Gobbo Federico , Russo Federica
Published: October 2019

Epistemic diversity is the ability or possibility of producing diverse and rich epistemic apparati to make sense of the world around us. In this paper we discuss whether, and to what extent, different conceptions of knowledge—notably as ‘justified true belief’ and as ‘distributed and embodied cognition’—hinder or foster epistemic diversity. We then link this discussion to the widespread move in science and philosophy towards monolingual disciplinary environments. We argue that English, despite all appearance, is no Lingua Franca, and we give reasons why epistemic diversity is also deeply hindered is monolingual contexts. Finally, we sketch a proposal for multilingual academia where epistemic diversity is thereby fostered.
Nudging Immunity: The Case for Vaccinating Children in School and Day Care by Default
Authors: Giubilini Alberto , Caviola Lucius , Maslen Hannah , Douglas Thomas , Nussberger Anne-Marie , Faber Nadira , Vanderslott Samantha , Loving Sarah , Harrison Mark , Savulescu Julian
Published: October 2019

Many parents are hesitant about, or face motivational barriers to, vaccinating their children. In this paper, we propose a type of vaccination policy that could be implemented either in addition to coercive vaccination or as an alternative to it in order to increase paediatric vaccination uptake in a non-coercive way. We propose the use of vaccination nudges that exploit the very same decision biases that often undermine vaccination uptake. In particular, we propose a policy under which children would be vaccinated at school or day-care by default, without requiring parental authorization, but with parents retaining the right to opt their children out of vaccination. We show that such a policy is (1) likely to be effective, at least in cases in which non-vaccination is due to practical obstacles, rather than to strong beliefs about vaccines, (2) ethically acceptable and less controversial than some alternatives because it is not coercive and affects individual autonomy only in a morally unproblematic way, and (3) likely to receive support from the UK public, on the basis of original empirical research we have conducted on the lay public.
What Does Social Realism Have to Offer for Research on Teacher Identity in Mathematics Education?
Authors: Westaway Lise , Kaiser Gabriele , Graven Mellony
Published: October 2019

Research that focuses on teacher identity is gaining traction as researchers argue that teachers mediate more than mathematical knowledge and skills in the classroom. This research tends to be underpinned by a social constructionist orientation, which foregrounds epistemology over ontology. This orientation is limiting for research that wishes to understand the base conditions that enable or constrain the expression (i.e. both communication and action) of teacher identity in teaching primary mathematics. The paper suggests that this requires research that explores the interaction between structure, culture and agency in the expression of teacher identity in teaching mathematics in primary school. The study argues that a social realist orientation is of value to research on teacher identity. From this perspective, teacher identity is defined as the manner in which teachers express their roles as teachers. As the paper is primarily theoretical, the exemplification is limited to two primary school teachers’ expression of only one role namely effective communicator of mathematics. It demonstrates what social realism enables, that is, not illuminated in research underpinned by a social constructionist orientation. The argument made in this paper elucidates how social realism supports a deep analysis of the structural and agential conditions that enable and constrain teacher identities.
Application of MnO2Resin and Dowex 1X8 manganese dioxide impregnated resin for the separation of chromium from biological samples
Authors: Zuba Iga , Polkowska-Motrenko Halina
Published: October 2019

MnO2Resin and Dowex 1X8 manganese dioxide impregnated resin was used for chromium separation from biological samples. We examined sorption of chromium from acid solutions: hydrochloric, nitric and sulphuric in concentration range from 0.01 to 2 mol/dm3. The sorption process was evaluated by batch and column experiments. We also examined sorption of other elements in the developed systems, to check the selectivity of the process. Determination of chromium by radiochemical neutron activation analysis after separation with MnO2Resin was described.
Thermometric analysis of blood metabolites in ICU patients
Authors: Adlerberth Josefin , Meng Qinglai , Mecklenburg Michael , Tian Zengmin , Zhou Yikai , Bülow Leif , Xie Bin
Published: October 2019

Real-time monitoring of patient’s blood metabolites, such as glucose and lactate, could potentially improve surgery and recovery outcomes for patients in surgical and intensive care units. Our enzyme thermometric biosensor which is based on flow injected calorimetric determination of immobilized enzyme reaction is capable of performing continuous, fast, and quantitative analysis of metabolites using whole blood. A key technical advantage the assay affords is the ability to use unpretreated whole blood. In this article, the enzyme thermometric biosensor was used, for the first time, to determine glucose and lactate concentrations in the blood of ICU patients. The linear detection range for glucose was 0.5–30 mM and 0.25–12 mM for lactate, using a 20 μL sample volume. A maximum sampling rate of 15 measurements per hour was achieved using venous blood samples, which corresponds to a 4-min measurement interval. In order to validate the accuracy of the results, a comparative analysis between the thermometric biosensor and the clinically applied instrument (LifeScan’s OneTouch®) which is based on disposable dry chemical reaction was performed using samples from 33 patients. The results showed a good correlation between the two methods for both glucose (r = 0.843, p < 0.0001) and lactate (r = 0.78, p = 0.0105). The ability to monitor metabolite levels and trends on a clinically relevant timescale of 5 min is critical for intensive monitoring of ICP and operative patients.
Ethics of AI and Cybersecurity When Sovereignty is at Stake
Authors: Timmers Paul
Published: October 2019

Sovereignty and strategic autonomy are felt to be at risk today, being threatened by the forces of rising international tensions, disruptive digital transformations and explosive growth of cybersecurity incidents. The combination of AI and cybersecurity is at the sharp edge of this development and raises many ethical questions and dilemmas. In this commentary, I analyse how we can understand the ethics of AI and cybersecurity in relation to sovereignty and strategic autonomy. The analysis is followed by policy recommendations, some of which may appear to be controversial, such as the strategic use of ethics. I conclude with a reflection on underlying concepts as an invitation for further research. The goal is to inspire policy-makers, academics and business strategists in their work, and to be an input for public debate.
A debunking explanation for moral progress
Authors: Cofnas Nathan
Published: October 2019

According to “debunking arguments,” our moral beliefs are explained by evolutionary and cultural processes that do not track objective, mind-independent moral truth. Therefore (the debunkers say) we ought to be skeptics about moral realism. Huemer counters that “moral progress”—the cross-cultural convergence on liberalism—cannot be explained by debunking arguments. According to him, the best explanation for this phenomenon is that people have come to recognize the objective correctness of liberalism. Although Huemer may be the first philosopher to make this explicit empirical argument for moral realism, the idea that societies will eventually converge on the same moral beliefs is a notable theme in realist thinking. Antirealists, on the other hand, often point to seemingly intractable cross-cultural moral disagreement as evidence against realism (the “argument from disagreement”). This paper argues that the trend toward liberalism is susceptible to a debunking explanation, being driven by two related non-truth-tracking processes. First, large numbers of people gravitate to liberal values for reasons of self-interest. Second, as societies become more prosperous and advanced, they become more effective at suppressing violence, and they create conditions where people are more likely to empathize with others, which encourages liberalism. The latter process is not truth tracking (or so this paper argues) because empathy-based moral beliefs are themselves susceptible to an evolutionary debunking argument. Cross-cultural convergence on liberalism per se does not support either realism or antirealism.
Features of the Galactic Cosmic Ray Anisotropy in Solar Cycle 24 and Solar Minima 23/24 and 24/25
Authors: Modzelewska R. , Iskra K. , Wozniak W. , Siluszyk M. , Alania M. V.
Published: October 2019

We study the role of the drift effect in the temporal changes of the anisotropy of galactic cosmic rays (GCRs) and the influence of the sector structure of the heliospheric magnetic field on it. We analyze the GCR anisotropy in Solar Cycle 24 and solar minimum 23/24 with negative polarity ($qA<0$qA<0) for the period of 2007 – 2009 and near minimum 24/25 with positive polarity ($qA>0$qA>0) in 2017 – 2018 using data of the global network of Neutron Monitors. We use the harmonic analysis method to calculate the radial and tangential components of the anisotropy of GCRs for different sectors (‘+’ corresponds to the positive and ‘−’ to the negative directions) of the heliospheric magnetic field. We compare the analysis of GCR anisotropy using different evaluations of the mean GCRs rigidity related to Neutron Monitor observations. Then the radial and tangential components are used for characterizing the GCR modulation in the heliosphere. We show that in the solar minimum 23/24 in 2007 – 2009 when $qA<0$qA<0, the drift effect is not visibly evident in the changes of the radial component, i.e. the drift effect is found to produce $\approx 4$≈4% change in the radial component of the GCR anisotropy for 2007 – 2009. Hence the diffusion dominated model of GCR transport is more acceptable in 2007 – 2009. In turn, near the solar minimum 24/25 in 2017 – 2018 when $qA>0$qA>0, the drift effect is evidently visible and produces ≈40% change in the radial component of the GCR anisotropy for 2017 – 2018. So in the period of 2017 – 2018 a diffusion model with noticeably manifested drift is acceptable. The results of this work are in good agreement with the drift theory of GCR modulation, according to which, during negative (positive) polarity cycles, a drift stream of GCRs is directed toward (away from) the Sun, thus giving rise to a 22-year cycle variation of the radial GCR anisotropy.
Optimal Monte Carlo integration on closed manifolds
Authors: Ehler Martin , Gräf Manuel , Oates Chris. J.
Published: October 2019

The worst case integration error in reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces of standard Monte Carlo methods with n random points decays as $$n^{-1/2}$$n-1/2. However, the re-weighting of random points, as exemplified in the Bayesian Monte Carlo method, can sometimes be used to improve the convergence order. This paper contributes general theoretical results for Sobolev spaces on closed Riemannian manifolds, where we verify that such re-weighting yields optimal approximation rates up to a logarithmic factor. We also provide numerical experiments matching the theoretical results for some Sobolev spaces on the sphere $${\mathbb {S}}^2$$S2 and on the Grassmannian manifold $${\mathcal {G}}_{2,4}$$G2,4. Our theoretical findings also cover function spaces on more general sets such as the unit ball, the cube, and the simplex.
Science identity as a landscape of becoming: rethinking recognition and emotions through an intersectionality lens
Authors: Avraamidou Lucy
Published: October 2019

In this conceptual paper, I put forward an argument about the conceptualization of science identity as a landscape of becoming by placing emphasis on recognition and emotions, as core features of identity, through an intersectionality lens. These constructs intertwined, I argue, can give meaning to the process of becoming a science person or forming a science identity, and at the same time shed light on issues related to power, inequality, racism, and exclusion. In the context of these bigger issues, I argue that forming a science identity is not only personal, but also political. The need for intersectionality as a conceptual framework for studying science identity is underscored by the dearth of theory and empirical evidence that addresses classroom inequalities, as well as the multiple and interlocking influence of systems of privilege and oppression in science, such as racism and sexism. Recognition, which refers to how individuals are recognized by others as certain kinds of people, is an ineradicable part of our social world; it is bound within sociopolitical contexts and tied to specific cultural norms, values, beliefs, and stereotypes. Hence, recognition becomes of paramount importance in science identity research. However, critical questions still remain unanswered, such as who is allowed in the world of science and who is recognized as a science person in specific contexts? Directly linked to recognition, I argue, are different types of emotions which can offer a valuable lens for studying inequalities within the process of forming a science identity. What this means for science identity research is how important it is to explore the emotionality of science identity given that emotions are not just dialectically related but inextricably bound with (mis)recognition as well as with various systems of oppression.
Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Property Characterization of 6063 Aluminum Alloy Tubes Processed with Friction Stir Back Extrusion
Authors: Zhang Suhong , Frederick Alan , Wang Yiyu , Eller Mike , McGinn Paul , Hu Anming , Feng Zhili
Published: October 2019

Friction stir back extrusion (FSBE) is a technique for lightweight metal extrusion. The frictional heat and severe plastic deformation of the process generate an equiaxed refined grain structure because of dynamic recrystallization. Previous studies proved that the fabrication of tube and wire structures is feasible. In this work, hollow cylindrical billets of 6063-T6 aluminum alloy were used as starting material. A relatively low extrusion ratio allows for a temperature and deformation gradient through the tube wall thickness to elucidate the effect of heat and temperature on the microstructure evolution during FSBE. The force and temperature were recorded during the processes. The microstructures of the extruded tubes were characterized using an optical microscope, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, electron backscatter diffraction, and hardness testing. The process reduced the grain size from 58.2 μm to 20.6 μm at the inner wall. The microhardness of the alloy was reduced from 100 to 60–75 HV because of the process thermal cycle.
Updated guidelines for predictive biomarker testing in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: a National Consensus of the Spanish Society of Pathology and the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology
Authors: Garrido P. , Conde E. , de Castro J. , Gómez-Román J. J. , Felip E. , Pijuan L. , Isla D. , Sanz J. , Paz-Ares L. , López-Ríos F.
Published: October 2019

In 2011 the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM) and the Spanish Society of Pathology (SEAP) started a joint project to establish guidelines on biomarker testing in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) based on current evidence. As this field is constantly evolving, these guidelines have been updated, previously in 2012 and 2015 and now in 2019. Current evidence suggests that the mandatory tests to conduct in all patients with advanced NSCLC are forEGFRandBRAFmutations,ALKandROS1rearrangements and PD-L1 expression. The growing need to study other emerging biomarkers has promoted the routine use of massive sequencing (next-generation sequencing, NGS). The coordination of every professional involved and the prioritisation of the most suitable tests and technologies for each case remains a challenge.
Mechanical Properties of a Novel Plastic Hinge Seismic Fuse Based on Frictional Energy Dissipation to Avoid Brittle Failures in Beam-to-Column Moment-Resistant Joints
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Wang Qitai , Ma Guangtian
Published: October 2019

Traditional steel structure joints are prone to brittle failure under seismic excitation, and it is difficult to precisely control the location of the resulting plastic hinge or repair these joints after an earthquake. Therefore, based on the energy dissipation principle of the friction pendulum isolation bearing and automobile braking device, a low-cost friction-based plastic hinge (PH) joint is proposed to provide predictable energy dissipation and realize quickly repairable structures. The proposed PH was analysed theoretically, and five half-scale specimens using different bolt and friction materials were tested using cyclic reversing load. The test results showed that models PH-1 and PH-2 with Grade 4.8 and 8.8 limiting bolts, respectively, both provided a plastic rotation angle greater than 0.03 rad, exhibited experimental moment capacities of 0.91 and 0.93 times their theoretical capacities, and exhibited ductility coefficients of 2.75 and 3.14, respectively. It was found that high-strength limiting bolts were unsuitable as they damaged difficult-to-replace PH components. The selected PH configuration experienced damage to only the limiting bolts and friction plates and exhibited good plastic deformation capacity and hysteretic energy dissipation performance that met the plastic rotation, ductility, and friction energy dissipation requirements. Thus, the proposed PH can be used to improve the seismic performance of beam-to-column joints and the frames they form.