bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Influence of Lateral Conductivity Contrasts on the Storm Time Behavior of the Ground Electric Field in the Eastern United States
Authors: Marshalko Elena , Kruglyakov Mikhail , Kuvshinov Alexey , Murphy Benjamin S. , Rastätter Lutz , Ngwira Chigomezyo , Pulkkinen Antti
Published: February 2020

The intensification of the fluctuating geomagnetic field during space weather events leads to generation of a strong electric field in the conducting earth, which drives geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) in grounded technological systems. GICs can severely affect the functioning of such infrastructure. The ability to realistically model the ground electric field (GEF) is important for understanding the space weather impact on technological systems. We present the results of three‐dimensional (3‐D) modeling of the GEF for the eastern United States during a geomagnetic storm of March 2015. The external source responsible for the storm is constructed using a 3‐D magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulation of near‐Earth space. We explore effects from conductivity contrasts for various conductivity models of the region, including a 3‐D model obtained from inversion of EarthScope magnetotelluric data. As expected, the GEF in the region is subject to a strong coastal effect. Remarkably, effects from landmass conductivity inhomogeneities are comparable to the coastal effect. These inhomogeneities significantly affect the integrated GEF. This result is of special importance since the computation of GICs relies on integrals of the GEF (voltages), but not on the GEF itself. Finally, we compare the GEF induced by a laterally varying (MHD) source with that calculated using the plane wave approximation and show that the difference is perceptible even in the regions that are commonly considered to be negligibly affected by lateral nonuniformity of the source. Overall, the difference increases toward the north of the model where effects from laterally variable high‐latitude external currents become substantial.
Impact of Hurricane Maria on Beach Erosion in Puerto Rico: Remote Sensing and Causal Inference
Authors: Pérez Valentín Jaynise M. , Müller Marc F.
Published: February 2020

Beach erosion due to large storms critically affects coastal vulnerability, but is challenging to monitor and quantify. Attributing erosion to a specific storm requires a reliable counterfactual scenario: hypothetical beach conditions, absent the storm. Calibrating models to construct counterfactuals requires numerous observations that are rarely available. Storm paths are unpredictable, making long‐term instrumentation of specific beaches costly. Optical remote sensing is hampered by persistent cloud cover. We use Sentinel‐1 satellite radar imagery to monitor shoreline changes through clouds and propose regression discontinuity as a strategy to estimate the causal effect of large storms on beach erosion. Applied to 75 beaches across Puerto Rico, the approach detects shoreline changes with a root‐mean‐square error comparable to the resolution of the imagery. Hurricane Maria caused an erosion of 3 to 5 m along its path, up to 40 m at particular beaches. Results reveal strong local disparities that are consistent with simulated nearshore hydrodynamic conditions.
Node-Level Resilience Loss in Dynamic Complex Networks
Authors: Moutsinas Giannis , Guo Weisi
Published: February 2020

In an increasingly connected world, the resilience of networked dynamical systems is important in the fields of ecology, economics, critical infrastructures, and organizational behaviour. Whilst we understand small-scale resilience well, our understanding of large-scale networked resilience is limited. Recent research in predicting the effective network-level resilience pattern has advanced our understanding of the coupling relationship between topology and dynamics. However, a method to estimate the resilience of an individual node within an arbitrarily large complex network governed by non-linear dynamics is still lacking. Here, we develop a sequential mean-field approach and show that after 1-3 steps of estimation, the node-level resilience function can be represented with up to 98% accuracy. This new understanding compresses the higher dimensional relationship into a one-dimensional dynamic for tractable understanding, mapping the relationship between local dynamics and the statistical properties of network topology. By applying this framework to case studies in ecology and biology, we are able to not only understand the general resilience pattern of the network, but also identify the nodes at the greatest risk of failure and predict the impact of perturbations. These findings not only shed new light on the causes of resilience loss from cascade effects in networked systems, but the identification capability could also be used to prioritize protection, quantify risk, and inform the design of new system architectures.
Association of alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase Polymorphism with Spontaneous Deep Intracerebral Haemorrhage in the Taiwan population
Authors: Huang Yu-Hua , Chang Kuo-Hsuan , Lee Yun-Shien , Chen Chiung-Mei , Chen Yi-Chun
Published: February 2020

Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) encode essential alcohol-metabolizing enzymes. While alcohol use is associated with spontaneously deep intracerebral haemorrhage (SDICH), particularly in males, the activities and genetic variants of ADH and ALDH may affect SDICH development. This case-control study was conducted to identify the interaction of alcohol use and SDICH with five single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): ADH1B rs1229984, ADH1C rs2241894, ALDH2 rs671, ALDH2 rs886205, and ALDH2 rs4648328. We enrolled 208 patients with SDICH and 244 healthy controls in a Taiwanese population. ALDH2 rs671 was significantly associated with SDICH in the dominant (P < 0.001) and additive models (P = 0.007). ALDH2 rs4648328 was borderline significantly associated with SDICH in the recessive (P = 0.024) or additive models (P = 0.030). In alcohol-using patients, the ALDH2 rs671 GG genotype was associated with SDICH risk compared to the GA+AA genotype (P = 0.010). ADH1B rs1229984, ADH1C rs2241894, and ALDH2 rs886205 did not demonstrate association with SDICH. Thus, the ALDH2 rs671 GG genotype is a risk factor for SDICH. Because the genetic distributions of ALDH2 rs671 exhibited strong ethnic heterogeneity, further studies in different populations are needed to validate these findings.
Author Correction: Watershed geomorphology modifies the sensitivity of aquatic ecosystem metabolism to temperature
Authors: Jankowski K. J. , Schindler D. E.
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Correction: Tuning radical interactions in trisradical tricationic complexes by varying host-cavity sizes
Authors: Cai Kang , Shi Yi , Cao Changsu , Vemuri Suneal , Cui Binbin , Shen Dengke , Wu Huang , Zhang Long , Qiu Yunyan , Chen Hongliang , Jiao Yang , Stern Charlotte L. , Alsubaie Fehaid M. , Xiao Hai , Li Jun , Stoddart J. Fraser
Published: February 2020

Correction for ‘Tuning radical interactions in trisradical tricationic complexes by varying host-cavity sizes’ by Kang Cai et al., Chem. Sci., 2020, DOI: 10.1039/c9sc04860j.
Correction: Room temperature discotic liquid crystalline triphenylene-pentaalkynylbenzene dyads as an emitter in blue OLEDs and their charge transfer complexes with ambipolar charge transport behaviour
Authors: Bala Indu , Yang Wan-Yun , Gupta Santosh Prasad , De Joydip , Yadav Rohit Ashok Kumar , Singh Dharmendra Pratap , Dubey Deepak Kumar , Jou Jwo-Huei , Douali Redouane , Pal Santanu Kumar
Published: February 2020

Correction for ‘Room temperature discotic liquid crystalline triphenylene-pentaalkynylbenzene dyads as an emitter in blue OLEDs and their charge transfer complexes with ambipolar charge transport behaviour’ by Indu Bala et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2019, 7, 5724–5738.
Ladybird Beetles of the Australo-Pacific Region
Authors: Slipinski Adam , Li Jiahui , Pang Hong
Published: February 2020

True ladybirds, classified in the tribe Coccinellini, are easily recognisable by their relatively large and shiny bodies and contrasting colour patterns. They are one of the most widely studied groups of beetles, being of economic importance and used as model organisms in biological and ecological research.
Ladybird Beetles of the Australo-Pacific Region covers 22 genera and 95 valid species, including 12 new species, of ladybird beetles from Australia, New Guinea and the Pacific area. For each species, descriptions, illustrations and keys will assist with the correct identification of ladybirds from this large but practically unknown fauna.
This book is a valuable contribution to the taxonomy of the ladybirds and to the knowledge of the biodiversity of this unique biogeographic region. It will be of use to entomologists, biologists, ecologists, quarantine officers, natural history museum curators, and students.
Theory of Motivated Information Management: A Meta-Analytic Review
Authors: Kuang Kai , Wilson Steven R
Published: February 2020

The theory of motivated information management ([TMIM]; Afifi & Weiner, 2004) was proposed to explicate the processes through which uncertainty motivates information management. Over the past 15 years, the theory has been tested and applied to a wide range of topics and contexts. The current study meta-analyzes 33 studies from 31 articles that have empirically tested predictions from TMIM. Potential moderating effects of age, issue importance, and study design were also examined. Results, in general, provide support for bivariate associations proposed by TMIM, although these associations are heterogeneous and moderated by the average age of the sample and study design. A path model testing TMIM associations found good model fit after some modifications. Findings highlight the utility of TMIM as a theoretical framework (e.g., proposed paths operate as predicted), but also suggest changes that might better explain the range of ways in which uncertainty motivates information management.
2-(4-Iodo-2,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-N-[(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl]ethanamine (25I-NBOME): A Harmful Hallucinogen Review
Authors: Kamińska Katarzyna , Świt Paweł , Malek Kamilla
Published: February 2020

NBOMes are N-benzylmethoxy derivatives of the 2C family compounds with N-2-methoxybenzyl moiety substituted by the methoxy group at the 2- and 5-position and the halogen group at the 4-position of the phenyl ring. These substances are a new class of potent serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonist hallucinogens with potential harmful effects. The substitution with halogen of the already psychoactive phenethylamine produces a derivative (2C-I) with increased hallucinogenic effects. This class of hallucinogens has chemical structures very similar to natural hallucinogenic alkaloid mescaline and these are sold mainly via internet as a ‘legal’ alternative to other hallucinogenic drug-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). 25I-NBOMe is the first synthesized and one of the most common compound from NBOMes. Knowledge of pharmacological properties of 25I-NBOMe is very limited so far. There are only a few in vivo and in vitro so far published studies. The behavioral experiments are mainly related with the hallucinogenic effect of 25I-NBOMe while the in vitro studies concerning mainly the affinity for 5-HT2A receptors. The 25I-NBOMe Critical Review 2016 reported 51 non-fatal intoxications and 21 deaths associated with 25I-NBOMe across Europe. Case reports describe various toxic effects of 25I-NBOMe usage including tachycardia, hypertension, hallucinations, rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury and death. The growing number of fatal and non-fatal intoxication cases indicates that 25I-NBOMe should be considered as a serious danger to public health. This review aims to present the current state of knowledge on pharmacological effects and chemical properties of 25I-NBOMe and to describe reported clinical cases and analytical methods available for identification of this agent in biological material.
Skeletal Toxicity of Coplanar Polychlorinated Biphenyl Congener 126 in the Rat Is Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Dependent
Authors: Williams Ashlee E , Watt James , Robertson Larry W , Gadupudi Gopi , Osborn Michele L , Soares Michael J , Iqbal Khursheed , Pedersen Kim B , Shankar Kartik , Littleton Shana , Maimone Cole , Eti Nazmin A , Suva Larry J , Ronis Martin J J
Published: February 2020

Epidemiological evidence links polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) to skeletal toxicity, however mechanisms whereby PCBs affect bone are poorly studied. In this study, coplanar PCB 126 (5 μmol/kg) or corn oil vehicle was administered to N = 5 and 6 male and female, wild type (WT) or AhR −/− rats via intraperitoneal injection. Animals were sacrificed after 4 weeks. Bone length was measured; bone morphology was assessed by microcomputed tomography and dynamic histomorphometry. Reduced bone length was the only genotype-specific effect and only observed in males (p < .05). WT rats exposed to PCB 126 had reduced serum calcium, and smaller bones with reduced tibial length, cortical area, and medullary area relative to vehicle controls (p < .05). Reduced bone formation rate observed in dynamic histomorphometry was consistent with inhibition of endosteal and periosteal bone growth. The effects of PCB 126 were abolished in AhR −/− rats. Gene expression in bone marrow and shaft were assessed by RNA sequencing. Approximately 75% of the PCB-regulated genes appeared AhR dependent with 89 genes significantly (p < .05) regulated by both PCB 126 and knockout of the AhR gene. Novel targets significantly induced by PCB 126 included Indian hedgehog (Ihh) and connective tissue growth factor (Ctgf/Ccn2), which regulate chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation in the bone growth plate and cell-matrix interactions. These data suggest the toxic effects of PCB 126 on bone are mediated by AhR, which has direct effects on the growth plate and indirect actions related to endocrine disruption. These studies clarify important mechanisms underlying skeletal toxicity of dioxin-like PCBs and highlight potential therapeutic targets.
Evaluating the Utility of Routine Imaging in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Nail Unit
Authors: Clark Melanie A. , Filitis Dan , Samie Faramarz H. , Piliang Melissa , Knackstedt Thomas J.
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common malignant tumor of the nail unit. No guidelines currently exist regarding the role of imaging in this specific location.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the utility of routine imaging in SCC of the nail apparatus.

METHODS

A multi-institutional retrospective review of patients treated for nail unit SCC was performed. Data were collected on patient characteristics, tumor qualities, treatment, and radiographic imaging. A change in treatment was defined as more aggressive treatment (amputation) rather than local excision or Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS).

RESULTS

One hundred seven patients with nail unit SCC were identified. Approximately 44/107 (41.1%) of patients were imaged and 63/107 (58.9%) were not. Mohs micrographic surgery was the most common primary treatment (66.4%). Mohs micrographic surgery was more commonly performed in nonimaged patients, and amputation was more commonly performed in imaged patients (p < .001). Bony changes were identified in 13/44 (29.5%) of imaged patients. In 8/44 (18.2%), imaging findings caused a change in treatment. In 99/107 (92.5%) of the cohort, imaging was either not performed or did not change management.

CONCLUSION

In select cases, imaging may help guide patient management. Sufficient evidence does not yet exist to support routine imaging for patients with nail unit SCC.
Evidence-based Nasal Analysis for Rhinoplasty: The 10-7-5 Method
Authors: Brito Íris M. , Avashia Yash , Rohrich Rod J.
Published: February 2020

Rhinoplasty is one of the top 5 aesthetic surgical procedures performed in plastic surgery. A methodical evaluation based on solid and up-to-date scientific evidence in different key areas of nasal and facial analysis is presented, the 10-7-5 method. This represents the most important preoperative step for a successful rhinoplasty. The 10-7-5 method for nasal analysis is a useful instrument that provides the rhinoplasty surgeon a deep comprehension of nasal anatomy. Understanding the nasal structures’ main relationships and consequences of each surgical maneuver on nasal framework assists on establishing the appropriate surgical goals for each patient, both in primary and secondary rhinoplasty cases. This systematic analysis of patient’s frontal, lateral, and basal nasal views provides a background to identify changes to ideal aesthetic proportions and how to surgically restore them while maintaining gender and ethnic congruency.
A Severe Adverse Effect of Atomoxetine: Hypertensive Crisis
Authors: Guldiken Gokce , Karayagmurlu Ali
Published: February 2020

Atomoxetine, a selective norepinephrine (noradrenaline) reuptake inhibitor, is an effective medication in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder with a generally well-tolerated adverse effect profile. However, unusual side effects may occur during treatment. Here we report a case of hypertensive crisis in an 8-year-old male patient with autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder receiving atomoxetine treatment. We plan to discuss the clinical picture of the subject and importance of close monitoring during atomoxetine treatment.
The association between cancer and spousal rate of memory decline: a negative control study to evaluate (unmeasured) social confounding of the cancer-memory relationship
Authors: Ospina-Romero Monica , Brenowitz Willa D. , Glymour M. Maria , Mayeda Elizabeth R. , Graff Rebecca E. , Witte John S. , Ackley Sarah , Lu Kun Ping , Kobayashi Lindsay C.
Published: February 2020

Cancer diagnoses are associated with better long-term memory in older adults, possibly reflecting a range of social confounders that increase cancer risk but improve memory. We used spouse’s memory as a negative control outcome to evaluate this possible confounding, since spouses share social characteristics and environments, and individuals’ cancers are unlikely to cause better memory among their spouses. We estimated the association of an individual’s incident cancer diagnosis (exposure) with their own (primary outcome) and their spouse’s (negative control outcome) memory decline in 3,601 couples from 1998-2014 in the Health and Retirement Study, using linear mixed-effects models. Incident cancer predicted better long-term memory for the diagnosed individual. We observed no association between an individual’s cancer diagnosis and rate of spousal memory decline. This negative control study suggests that the inverse association between incident cancer and rate of memory decline is unlikely to be attributable to social/behavioral factors shared between spouses.
Application and optimization of RT-PCR in diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Ren Xiaoshuai , Liu Yan , Chen Hongtao , Liu Wei , Guo Zhaowang , Zhang Yaqin , Chen Chaoqun , Zhou Jianhui , Xiao Qiang , Jiang Guanmin , Shan Hong
Published: February 2020

Background

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become a global threat to public health. Aiming to construct an efficient screening pattern, we comprehensively evaluated the performances of RT-PCR and chest CT in diagnosing COVID-19.

Methods

The records including demographics, RT-PCR, and CT from 87 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 481 exclusion cases were collected. The diagnostic accuracy of the pharyngeal swab RT-PCR, CT, combination with the second pharyngeal swab RT-PCR or with CT were evaluated individually. Besides, all the stool RT-PCR results were plotted by time to explore the value of stool RT-PCR.

Findings

Combination of RT-PCR and CT has the higher sensitivity (91.9%,79/86) than RT-PCR alone (78.2%,68/87) or CT alone (66.7%, 54 of 81) or combination of two RT-PCR tests (86.2%,75/87). There was good agreement between RT-PCR and CT (kappa-value, 0.430). In 34 COVID-19 cases with inconsistent results, 94.1% (n=32) are mild infection, 62.5% of which (20/32) showed positive RT-PCR. 46.7% (35/75) COVID-19 patients had at least one positive stool during the course. Two cases had positive stool earlier than the pharyngeal swabs. Importantly, one patient had consecutive positive stool but negative pharyngeal swabs.

Interpretation

Combination of RT-PCR and CT with the highest sensitivity is an optimal pattern to screen COVID-19. RT-PCR is superior to CT in diagnosing mild infections. Stool RT-PCR should be considered as an item for improving discovery rate and hospital discharge. This study shed light for optimizing scheme of screening and monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Funding

This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81502104), National Program on Key Basic Research Project (No. 2018YFC0910600),the Nature Science Foundation of Guangdong Province, China (Grant No: 2017A030313771 and 2020A151501001) and the Young Teachers Nurturing Program of Sun Yat-Sen University (Grant No:17ykpy62)
Dominance patterns in dynamic environments
Authors: Devi Archana , Jain Kavita
Published: February 2020

Natural environments are seldom static and therefore it is important to ask how a population adapts in a changing environment. We consider a finite, diploid population with intermediate dominance evolving in a periodically changing environment and study how the fixation probability of a rare mutant depends on its dominance coefficient and the rate of environmental change. We find that in slowly changing environments, the dominance patterns are the same as in the static environment, that is, if a mutant is beneficial (deleterious) when it arrives, it is more (less) likely to fix if it is dominant. But in fast changing environments, these patterns depend on the mutant’s fitness on arrival as well as that in the time-averaged environment. We find that in a rapidly varying environment that is neutral or deleterious on-average, an initially beneficial (deleterious) mutant that arises while selection is decreasing (increasing) has a fixation probability lower (higher) than that for a neutral mutant leading to a reversal in the standard dominance patterns. We also find that recurrent mutations decrease the phase lag between the environment and the allele frequency, irrespective of the level of dominance.
Microtubule Defect Involved in ‘Mitophagy Resistance’ Under Subacute Oxidative Stress - Potential Mechanism for Cellular Inflammation
Authors: Tamura Takahiko , Yasuda Nobuo , Shakuo Tomoharu , Kashiwagi Aki , Martyn Jeevendra A. J. , Yokoyama Masataka , Yasuhara Shingo
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Oxidative stress is considered an essential mechanism in ICU-acquired weakness. The roles of oxidative stress in autophagy/mitophagy dysfunction remains elusive. Microtubule serves as an essential guide rail for auto/mitophagosome trafficking required for proper maturation of auto/mitophagosomes in normal circumstances, and microtubules network formation is regulated by signal transduction mechanisms involving Akt, GSK3β, and the microtubule plus-end tracking molecule, EB1. We have investigated (1) whether oxidative stress affects this pathway, leading to the defective mitophagy response, and (2) whether trehalose, an auto/mitophagy modulator, can ameliorate these pathological conditions.

Methods

By stably transfecting markers for auto/mitophagy or MT synthesis, we have established a few new C2C12 myocyte cell lines, expressing, GFP-LC3, EB1-GFP, and/or tandem-fluorescence LC3 (tfLC3). To monitor microtubule network, the cells were stained by SiR-tubulin. The cells were cultured in the presence or absence of oxidative stress by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and treated with or without trehalose. The response of mitophagy parameters including vesicle motion and the maturation status was monitored by stimulating the cells with carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone (CCCP), an established mitophagy inducer, under a time-lapse confocal microscopy. Signal transduction mechanisms linking mitophagy to microtubule formation was analyzed by Western Blotting against Akt and GSK3β.

Results

Cells under the oxidative stress, showed abolished MT network formation, decreased microtubule synthesis by EB1, and a decrease in CCCP-invoked response of mitophagosome motion, perturbed mitophagosome maturation, and increased superoxide production. Signal resistance of Akt/GSK3β pathway to mitophagic stimulation, was documented. Trehalose treatment reversed signal resistance, diminished MT synthesis, ameliorated the disturbed MT network, and improved maturation defects, suppressing the production of superoxide.

Conclusions

Oxidative stress decreases the response of mitophagy and abolishes microtubule network. Trehalose improves the synthetic ability of microtubule and normalized the disturbed microtubule network, resulting in the improvement of the perturbed mitophagosomes maturation under the oxidative stress.
Optimal Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Dosage For Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Su Ting-Shi , Zhou Ying , Huang Yong , Cheng Tao , Liang Ping , Liang Shi-Xiong , Li Le-Qun
Published: February 2020

Background and purpose

The optimal dose and fractionation scheme of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear due to different tolerated liver volumes and degrees of cirrhosis. We compared the effectiveness of stereotactic body radiation therapy dosing regimens for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods and materials

This single-center retrospective study included 604 patients treated during 2011-2017. Biologically effective dose (BED10) and equivalent dose in 2 Gym fractions (EQD2) were assumed at an α/β ratio of 10. Overall survival (OS), local recurrence-free rate (LRF), intrahepatic recurrence-free rate (IRF), and progression-free survival (PFS) was evaluated in univariable and propensity-score matched analyses.

Results

Median tumor size was 5.2 cm (interquartile range [IQR], 1.1-21.0). Median follow-up was 31 months in surviving patients (IQR, 3-82). High radiotherapy dose correlated with better OS, PFS, LRF and IRF. Different post-SBRT OS, PFS, LRF and IRF rates were observed for stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SART) with BED10 ≥100 Gy, SBRT with EQD2 ≥74 Gy to BED10 <100 Gy, and stereotactic conservative radiotherapy (SCRT) with EQD2 <74 Gy.

Conclusions

High radiotherapy dose correlated with better outcomes. If tolerated by normal tissue, we recommend SART as a first-line ablative dose or SBRT as a second-line radical dose. Otherwise, SCRT is recommended as palliative irradiation.
Design, engineering and testing of an innovative adaptive automation assembly system
Authors: Bortolini Marco , Faccio Maurizio , Galizia Francesco Gabriele , Gamberi Mauro , Pilati Francesco
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Industry 4.0 emerged as the Fourth Industrial Revolution aiming at achieving higher levels of operational efficiency, productivity and automation. In this context, manual assembly systems are still characterized by high flexibility and low productivity, if compared to fully automated systems. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to propose the design, engineering and testing of a prototypal adaptive automation assembly system, including greater levels of automation to complement the skills and capabilities of human workers.

Design/methodology/approach

A lab experimental field-test is presented comparing the assembly process of a full-scale industrial chiller with traditional and adaptive assembly system.

Findings

The analysis shows relevant benefits coming from the adoption of the adaptive automation assembly system. In particular, the main findings highlight improvements in the assembly cycle time and productivity, as well as reduction of the operator’s body movements.

Practical implications

The prototype is applied in an Italian mid-size industrial company, confirming its impact in terms of upgrades of the assembly system flexibility and productivity. Thus, the research study proposed in this paper provides valuable knowledge to support companies and industrial practitioners in the shift from traditional to advanced assembly systems matching current industrial and market features.

Originality/value

This paper expands the lacking research on adaptive automation assembly systems design proposing an innovative prototype able to real-time reconfigure its structure according to the product to work, e.g. work cycle, and the operator features.
Electrochemical corrosion performances of laser thermal sprayed amorphous Al–Ti–Ni coatings in marine environment
Authors: Dejun Kong , Haixiang Chen
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of laser power on the electrochemical corrosion performance in 3.5% NaCl, 0.1 M H2SO4 and 0.1 M NaOH solutions, which provided an experimental basis for the application of Al–Ti–Ni amorphous coating in marine environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Amorphous Al–Ti–Ni coatings were fabricated on S355 structural steel by laser thermal spraying (LTS) at different laser powers. The surface and cross-section morphologies, chemical element distribution, phases and crystallization behaviors of obtained coatings were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscope, X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. The effects of laser power on the electrochemical corrosion performances of Al–Ti–Ni coatings in 3.5% NaCl, 0.1 M H2SO4 and 0.1 M NaOH solutions were investigated using an electrochemical workstation.

Findings

The crystallization temperature of Al–Ti–Ni coatings fabricated at the laser power of 1,300 and 1,700 W is ∼520°C, whereas that fabricated at the laser power of 1,500 W is ∼310°C. The coatings display excellent corrosion resistance in 3.5% NaCl and 0.1 M NaOH solutions, while a faster dissolution rate in 0.1 M H2SO4 solution. The coatings fabricated at the laser power of 1,300 and 1,700 W present the better electrochemical corrosion resistance in 3.5% NaCl and 0.1 M NaOH solutions, whereas that fabricated at the laser power of 1,500 W exhibits the better electrochemical corrosion resistance in 0.1 M H2SO4 solution.

Originality/value

In this work, Al-wire-cored Ti–Ni powder was first on S355 steel with the laser power of 1,300, 1,500 and 1,700 W, and the effects of laser power on the electrochemical corrosion performance in 3.5% NaCl, 0.1 M H2SO4 and 0.1 M NaOH solutions were investigated using an electrochemical workstation.
Tomography reconstruction of concrete materials for mesoscale modelling
Authors: Mazzucco Gianluca , Pomaro Beatrice , Xotta Giovanna , Maiorana Carmelo E. , Salomoni Valentina A.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is the numerical assessment of concrete behaviour close to failure, via the development of robust elastoplastic models inclusive of damage effects. If mesoscale investigations are to be considered, the model must take into account the local confinement effects because of the presence of aggregate inclusions in the cement paste and, correspondingly, the possibility to account for local 3D stress states even under uniaxial compression. Additionally, to enhance the predictive capabilities of a mesoscale representation, the reconstructed geometry must accurately follow the real one.

Design/methodology/approach

The work provides a procedure that combines a 3D digital image technique with finite element (FE) modelling thus maintaining the original 3D morphology of the composite.

Findings

The potentialities of the proposed approach are discussed, giving new insights to a FE modelling (FEM)-based approach applied together with a computer-aided design. Coupled mechanisms of mechanical mismatch and confinement, characterizing the combined cement matrix-aggregates effect, are captured and highlighted via the numerical tests.

Originality/value

The novelty of this research work lies in the proposal of a digitally based methodology for a precise concrete reconstruction together with the adoption of an upgraded elastic–plastic damage model for the cement paste.
Synthesis and characterization of hyperbranched silane-modified alkyd as a polymer for environmentally friendly low VOC polyurethane coatings
Authors: El-Bindary Ashraf , Kiwaan Hala , Shoair Abdel Ghany , El-Ablack Fawzia , Eessa Ahmed
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new method for modification of alkyd resin by using 3-triethoxysilylpropyl succinic acid anhydride (TESP-SA) as the core material for low volatile organic components (VOCs) polyurethane coating applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The structural, physical, thermal and film properties of the silane-modified (SM) alkyd were evaluated and compared with those of a silane-free alkyd resin that was prepared by a single-step method. The synthesis reaction was described in a detailed scheme and evidenced by ATR-FTIR measurements and 13C-NMR spectroscopy.

Findings

SM alkyd has synthesized with high solid content (85%) and low viscosity (5700 cP). As a result, environmentally friendly coatings with lower (VOC) emission are possible by using this type of alkyd polymer. The results showed that the presence of the Si atom in the final structure improved the thermal stability against the higher levels of aromatic rings in the silane-free alkyd. It was found that coatings based on SM alkyd have lower values of yellowing factor (Δa) and an increase of gloss retention percentage at different intervals of exposure to the quick ultraviolet weathering conditions.

Practical implications

The synthesized SM alkyd resin provided a practical solution to obtain environmentally friendly coatings with low VOC content, in addition to its improvement in alkyds’ overall characteristics, while still using natural resources – fatty acids – instead of totally petroleum resources.

Originality/value

TESP-SA has not been used before in alkyd polymer modifications, and this study can help countries that are interested in using environmentally-friendly coatings.
Financial Outcomes in Adolescence and Early Adulthood in Australian Longitudinal Data
Authors: de New John , Ribar David , Ryan Christopher , Wong Clement
Published: February 2020

This article describes and catalogues person‐specific measures of financial outcomes that are available for adolescents and young adults in three large longitudinal Australian surveys: the Longitudinal Surveys of Australian Youth, the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, and the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey. It summarises international research that has been conducted on young people's financial outcomes, illustrating outcomes that have been investigated, research questions that have been asked, and distinctions that have been drawn between adolescents and young adults. It considers the strengths and weaknesses of the three surveys for extending this research into the Australian context.
Wealth and Consumption in Australia
Authors: May Diego , Nodari Gabriela , Rees Daniel M.
Published: February 2020

We revisit the evidence on the effect of changes in household wealth on consumption using a panel of Australian states. We find that a one per cent increase in the value of housing wealth increases consumption by about 0.16 per cent in the long‐run, with half of the response occurring within two quarters. The size of this response has been stable over time and largely reflects changes in spending on motor vehicles, durable goods and other discretionary items. We then run counterfactual scenarios using the Reserve Bank of Australia's macroeconometric model, MARTIN, to assess the macroeconomic effects of changes in household wealth. We show that increases in household wealth supported household spending between 2013 and 2017, when growth in disposable income was weak.
Virtual implant planning and fully guided implant surgery using magnetic resonance imaging—Proof of principle
Authors: Flügge Tabea , Ludwig Ute , Hövener Jan‐Bernd , Kohal Ralf , Wismeijer Daniel , Nelson Katja
Published: February 2020

Objectives

To present a workflow of virtual implant planning and guided implant surgery with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and virtual dental models without the use of ionizing radiation.

Methods

Five patients scheduled for implant placement underwent an MR examination at three Tesla using individualized 2D and 3D turbo spin‐echo (TSE) sequences and dedicated head coils. The MRI data and virtual dental models derived from either optical model scans or intraoral scans were imported to a virtual implant planning software (coDiagnostiX, Dental Wings, Montreal, Canada). Virtual prosthetic planning and implant planning were performed regarding the hard and soft tissue anatomy. A drill guide was designed on the virtual dental model using computer‐aided design (CAD) and manufactured in‐house, using a 3D printer (Eden 260V, Stratasys, Eden Prairie, MN, USA).

Results

The MRI displayed all relevant anatomical structures for dental implant planning such as cortical and cancellous bone, floor of the nasal and maxillary sinus, inferior alveolar nerve and neighboring teeth. The manual alignment of virtual dental models with the MRI was possible using anatomical landmarks. Dental implant planning, CAD/CAM of a drill guide and fully guided implant placement were successfully performed.

Conclusions

Guided implant surgery is feasible with MRI without ionizing radiation. Further studies will have to be conducted to study the accuracy of the presented protocol and compare it to the current workflow of guided surgery using CBCT.
Habitat suitability and distribution potential of Liberibacter species (“Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus” and “Candidatus Liberibacter africanus”) associated with citrus greening disease
Authors: Ajene Inusa Jacob , Khamis Fathiya , van Asch Barbara , Pietersen Gerhard , Rasowo Brenda Amondi , Ekesi Sunday , Mohammed Samira
Published: February 2020

Aim

To quantify current and predict future distribution of the citrus greening pathogens “Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus” (Las) in Africa and “Candidatus Liberibacter africanus” (Laf) globally.

Location

Africa.

Methods

Three species distribution models (MaxEnt, BIOCLIM and Boosted Regression Trees) were used to predict the current and future potential distribution of Las in Africa, and the potential global distribution of Laf, using long‐term bioclimatic variables. Two climate change scenarios (moderate and extreme) were employed to determine how future climate alterations may affect the potential distribution of Las in Africa. Presence data from global reports of Las, as well as the new positional points obtained in this survey, were used to predict the habitat suitability of the pathogen in Africa, while the presence data points of Laf were used to predict the global habitat suitability. Testing data comprised 25% of the presence only points.

Results

Consensus of the three models predicted a potential distribution of Las in large areas of Western, Eastern and sub‐Saharan Africa. North Africa was mostly unsuitable for Las, except for the northern fringes. The potential distribution of Laf included South and Central America, Asia and Australia. In Europe, the United Kingdom and the Iberian Peninsula showed marginal suitability for Laf. The projections under the future climate change scenarios showed an increase in the Laf habitat suitability hotspots under the extreme scenario.

Main conclusions

This study highlights the potential establishment and distribution in Africa of Las‐associated Huanglongbing and globally for Laf‐associated with African citrus greening disease. The ensemble modelling approach for the distribution of plant pathogens is a valuable tool for the development of strategies for crop protection. These results constitute an early alert for citrus‐producing regions that should inform strategies for surveillance and preventive management against the invasion and spread of this destructive disease.
Peripheral insulin administration enhances the electrical activity of oxytocin and vasopressin neurones in vivo
Authors: Paiva Luis , Leng Gareth
Published: February 2020

Oxytocin neurones are involved in the regulation of energy balance through diverse central and peripheral actions and, in rats, they are potently activated by gavage of sweet substances. Here, we test the hypothesis that this activation is mediated by the central actions of insulin. We show that, in urethane‐anaesthetised rats, oxytocin cells in the supraoptic nucleus show prolonged activation after i.v. injections of insulin, and that this response is greater in fasted rats than in non‐fasted rats. Vasopressin cells are also activated, although less consistently. We also show that this activation of oxytocin cells is independent of changes in plasma glucose concentration, and is completely blocked by central (i.c.v.) administration of an insulin receptor antagonist. Finally, we replicate the previously published finding that oxytocin cells are activated by gavage of sweetened condensed milk, and show that this response too is completely blocked by central administration of an insulin receptor antagonist. We conclude that the response of oxytocin cells to gavage of sweetened condensed milk is mediated by the central actions of insulin.
MEASUREMENT AND DETERMINANTS OF MULTI‐FACTOR PRODUCTIVITY: A SURVEY OF LITERATURE
Authors: Ahmed Tauqir , Bhatti Arshad Ali
Published: February 2020

This paper surveys and synthesizes fast‐growing literature on the measurement and determinants of multi‐factor productivity (MFP). We identify three strands of the literature to measure MFP: the first is growth accounting, which decomposes observed economic growth into the contribution of factor inputs and technological change, called the Solow Residual; the second is index number methods, accompanied by frontier techniques; the third is growth regressions and econometric methods used to estimate productivity across countries and regions. We keep our focus on assessing the major strengths and weaknesses of commonly used methods for MFP measurement and categorize existing literature on the determinants of MFP growth into macroeconomic and institutional factors. We attempt to provide a reassessment and thematic survey of literature on the drivers of aggregate productivity, enabling policymakers to formulate effective economic policy.
Cell therapies can bring insult to injury
Authors: Ankrum James
Published: February 2020

Some cell therapies increase the risk of thromboembolism in trauma patients due to high tissue factor expression.
(IEEE New Electrochemical Technology (NET) Award) Electroosmotic Pulse Technology to Control Water in Varied Construction Media
Authors: Hock Vincent F. , Marshall Orange , McInerney Michael , Morefield Sean , Weiss Charles , Malone Phillip , Noyce Paul
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Dissolution Study of Orpiment (As2S3)in Alkaline Solution
Authors: Khodadadi Darban Ahmad , Aazami Mokhtar , Meléndez Angel , Abdollahy Mahmood , Gonzalez Ignacio
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Electrochemical-pH-Switchable Polymer Film for Treatment of Metallic Ion Aqueous Waste: From Fundamental Study to Semi-Pilot Industrial Applications
Authors: Le Xuan Tuan , Viel Pascal , Palacin Serge
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Novel Near-Infrared Electrochromic Aramids Based on Electroactive Para-Phenylenediamine-Substituted Triphenylamine and Diphenylamine Derivatives
Authors: Huang Li-Ting , Yen Hung-Ju , Liou Guey-Sheng
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Adsorption and Desorption Behavior of Organic Molecules on Silicon Wafer Surface
Authors: Tlili Sabrine , Gligorovski Saso , Temime-Roussel Brice , Wortham Henri
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
A Three-Dimensional Lithium-Ion Battery Model that Includes Thermal, Electrical and Electrochemical Behavior: II. The Effects of Electric Potential and Thermal Variations on Cell Aging
Authors: Christensen Jake , Albertus Paul , Cook David
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Electric Field Influence on Li+ Ion Transport through Phase-Change LiFePO4/FePO4 Particles
Authors: Kalu Egwu E. , Pannala Sreekanth , Mukherjee Partha , Nanda Jagjit , Martha Surendra , Dudney Nancy J. , Allu Srikanth , Turner John
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Investigation of PEM Fuel Cell Transport Material Flooding and Microstructure with Synchrotron Radiography
Authors: Hinebaugh James , Bazylak Aimy
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Lattice Boltzmann Simulation of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide in Brine-Saturated Underground Porous Media
Authors: Ebrahimi Khabbazi Ali , Ellis Jonathan S. , Bazylak Aimy
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Desalination Shocks and Overlimiting Current in Microstructures
Authors: Mani Ali , Dydek E. Victoria , Deng Daosheng S. , Zaltzman Boris , Rubinstein Isaak , Bazant Martin Z.
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Photocatalytic Activities of Nanostructure TiO2 Photoelectrodes Prepared Using Mild Solvothermal Methods
Authors: Su Yuh-Fan , Shih Yang-hsin
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Composite Coatings: Silica Particles with Metals by Electro-Deposition
Authors: Khan Tabrisur R. , Rohwerder Michael
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Mesoscale Transport in Self-Assembled Nanogranular Material: New Insights into Insulator-To-Metal Transitions
Authors: Dhirani Al-Amin , Joanis Patrick , Tie Monique
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Atomistic Simulations of Early Stages of Oxidation and Oxide Growth on Metal Nanoclusters
Authors: Subbaraman Ram , Sankaranarayanan Subramanian
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Water Effect on Nanostructure and Properties of Glass-Ceramic La(PO3)3-Ca(PO3)2
Authors: Zhang Guojing , DeJonghe Lutgard
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
The Effect of Particle Size on Hydrogen Release from Sodium Alanate
Authors: Mueller Tim , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Electrodeposition of Copper Nanoparticles from Industrial Electrolytes
Authors: Los Przemyslaw , Lukomska Aneta , Plewka Anna
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Self-Assembled Monolayers of Aminoalkyl-Monothiol and Dithiol on Copper Substrates towards Improved Adhesion in Printed Circuit Board Devices
Authors: Denayer Jessica , Delhalle Joseph , Mekhalif Zineb
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Electrochemical and Chemical Depositions of Copper Metal on TiO2 Nanotube Arrays
Authors: Le Xuan Tuan , Bélanger Daniel
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
New Fabrication Method for 3D Si-Based Photonic Crystal Structures with a Single Self-Aligned Etch
Authors: Dang Gerard , Taysing-Lara Monica , Zhou Weimin
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Competitive Nanotechnology for Deposition of Films and Fabrication of Powder-Like Particles
Authors: Khoperia Teimuraz , Zedginidze Tinatin , Khoperia Nikoloz
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Role of Deposition Potential on the Optical Properties of SnSSe Thin Films
Authors: Mahalingam Thaiyan , Dhanasekaran Vickraman , Ravi Ganesan , Chandramohan Rathinam , Kathalingam Adaikalam , Rhee Jin-Koo
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Isothermal Microcalorimetry Applied to Li Battery Electrolyte Stability
Authors: Krause Larry J. , Jensen Lowell
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Technological Implications of Active Dissolution Passivation and Electrocatalytic Behavior of Nickel in Fluoride Media
Authors: Michael Noel
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Reversible NAD/NADH Electrocatalysts
Authors: Arechederra R. , Addo P. , Minteer S.
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
Electrochemistry within Lyotropic Liquid Crystal Nanostructures
Authors: Halls Jonathan , Wadhawan Jay D.
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.
The Electrochemical Oxidation of Hydroxylamine on the Low Index Faces of Gold Single Crystals in Aqueous Electrolytes
Authors: Jacob Jebaraj Adriel Jebin , Scherson Daniel
Published: February 2020

Abstract not Available.