bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Embryonic lethality and defective mammary gland development of activator‐function impaired conditional knock‐in Erbb3V943R mice
Authors: Senger Kate , Yuan Wenlin , Sagolla Meredith , Doerr Jonas , Bolon Brad , Ziai James , Sun Kai‐Hui , Warming Soren , Roose‐Girma Merone , Zhang Na , Tam Lucinda , Newman Robert J. , Chaudhuri Subhra , Antony Aju , Goldstein Leonard D. , Durinck Steffen , Jaiswal Bijay S. , Lafkas Daniel , Modrusan Zora , Seshagiri Somasekar
Published: December 2020

ERBB3 is a pseudokinase domain‐containing member of the ERBB family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). Following ligand binding, ERBB receptors homo‐ or hetero‐dimerize, leading to a head‐to‐tail arrangement of the intracellular kinase domains, where the “receiver” kinase domain of one ERBB is activated by the “activator” domain of the other ERBB in the dimer. In ERBB3, a conserved valine at codon 943 (V943) in the kinase C‐terminal domain has been shown to be important for its function as an “activator” kinase in vitro. Here we report a knock‐in mouse model where we have modified the endogenous Erbb3 allele to allow for tissue‐specific conditional expression of Erbb3V943R (Erbb3CKI‐V943R). Additionally, we generated an Erbb3D850N (Erbb3CKI‐D850N) conditional knock‐in mouse model where the conserved aspartate in the DFG motif of the pseudokinase domain was mutated to abolish any potential residual kinase activity. While Erbb3D850N/D850N animals developed normally, homozygous Erbb3V943R/V943R expression during development resulted in embryonic lethality. Further, tissue specific expression of Erbb3V943R/V943R in the mammary gland epithelium following its activation using MMTV‐Cre resulted in delayed elongation of the ductal network during puberty. Single‐cell RNA‐seq analysis of Erbb3V943R/V943R mammary glands showed a reduction in a specific subset of fibrinogen‐producing luminal epithelial cells.
Vegetation and climate changes during the Miocene climatic optimum and Miocene climatic transition in the northwestern part of Central Paratethys
Authors: Doláková Nela , Kováčová Marianna , Utescher Torsten
Published: December 2020

The study of pollen spectra mirrors the evolution of landscape and climatic changes in the northwestern part of Central Paratethys domain during the regional stages Karpatian–Badenian (Late Burdigalian–Langhian to Early Serravalian; NN4‐NN6 biozone). This interval includes the Miocene climatic optimum (MCO) and the Miocene climatic transition (MCT) at 14.8–12.0 Ma. Here we study the pollen record from marine strata in eight wells and sections (Hevlín, Slup, Medlov, Iváň, Lomnice, Židlochovice, Baden Soos, and Devínska Nová Ves) including a total of 92 samples. The standard pollen diagrams are simultaneously analysed using the Palaeotropical/Arctotertiary concept (P/A), synthesized diagrams, coexistence approach, and a technique allowing to reconstruct diversity of plant functional types in order to unravel climate changes and their impact on the biosphere. Warmest climate conditions supporting a diverse, thermophilous mixed mesophytic forest vegetation with a high proportion of broadleaved evergreen PFTs persisted in the neighbouring continental parts during the Karpatian to Early Badenian (NN4‐NN5 biozone) representing the MCO. Evidence for the MTC and subsequent cooling (NN5 and NN6 at ca. 14 Ma) comes from lower percentages of thermophilous and evergreen elements and higher diversity of deciduous PFTs in the ecospectra (Devínska Nová Ves, NN6 biozone). Inferred annual precipitation rates above 800 mm and the almost continuous presence subtropical swamp tree pollen point to the persistence of overall humid climate conditions in the study area. Reconstructed precipitation data and the presence of drought‐tolerant plant functional types (PFTs) point to a seasonal climate. The studied records partly show shorter term cyclic changes in climate and plant diversity related to glacial events in the Langhian. Using the proportion of broadleaved evergreen versus broadleaved deciduous tree diversity as indicator for temperature changes, several alternations of warmer and cooler phases are obvious from the record. Moreover, sedimentary facies plays an important role for quality and resolution of terrestrial signals in marine strata.
Exercise interventions preserve hippocampal volume: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wilckens Kristine A. , Stillman Chelsea M. , Waiwood Aashna M. , Kang Chaeryon , Leckie Regina L. , Peven Jamie C. , Foust Jill E. , Fraundorf Scott H. , Erickson Kirk I.
Published: December 2020

Hippocampal volume is a marker of brain health and is reduced with aging and neurological disease. Exercise may be effective at increasing and preserving hippocampal volume, potentially serving as a treatment for conditions associated with hippocampal atrophy (e.g., dementia). This meta‐analysis aimed to identify whether exercise training has a positive effect on hippocampal volume and how population characteristics and exercise parameters moderate this effect. Studies met the following criteria: (a) controlled trials; (b) interventions of physical exercise; (c) included at least one time‐point of hippocampal volume data before the intervention and one after; (d) assessed hippocampal volume using either manual or automated segmentation algorithms. Animal studies, voxel‐based morphometry analyses, and multi‐modal interventions (e.g., cognitive training or meditation) were excluded. The primary analysis in n = 23 interventions from 22 published studies revealed a significant positive effect of exercise on total hippocampal volume. The overall effect was significant in older samples (65 years of age or older) and in interventions that lasted over 24 weeks and had less than 150 min per week of exercise. These findings suggest that moderate amounts of exercise for interventions greater than 6 months have a positive effect on hippocampal volume including in older populations vulnerable to hippocampal atrophy.
Exploring the utility of Deep Red Anthraquinone 5 for digital staining of ex vivo confocal micrographs of optically sectioned skin
Authors: Ortner Vinzent Kevin , Sahu Aditi , Cordova Miguel , Kose Kivanc , Aleissa Saud , Alessi‐Fox Christi , Haedersdal Merete , Rajadhyaksha Milind , Rossi Anthony Mario
Published: December 2020

We investigated the utility of the fluorescent dye Deep Red Anthraquinone 5 (DRAQ5) for digital staining of optically sectioned skin in comparison to acridine orange (AO). Eight fresh‐frozen thawed Mohs discard tissue specimens were stained with AO and DRAQ5, and imaged using an ex vivo confocal microscope at three wavelengths (488 nm and 638 nm for fluorescence, 785 nm for reflectance). Images were overlaid (AO + Reflectance, DRAQ5 + Reflectance), digitally stained, and evaluated by three investigators for perceived image quality (PIQ) and histopathological feature identification. In addition to nuclear staining, AO seemed to stain dermal fibers in a subset of cases in digitally stained images, while DRAQ5 staining was more specific to nuclei. Blinded evaluation showed substantial agreement, favoring DRAQ5 for PIQ (82%, Cl 75%‐90%, Gwet's AC 0.74) and for visualization of histopathological features in (81%, Cl 73%‐89%, Gwet's AC 0.67), supporting its use in digital staining of multimodal confocal micrographs of skin.
Student outcomes from a long‐term outreach program working in rural and low‐income schools
Authors: Warren David
Published: December 2020

The outreach program in the University of Otago Chemistry Department, focus in the FACS Chemical Education Award Lecture, has been running for more than 10 years. Over that time, it has worked in schools around New Zealand as well as delivering workshops at the Madam Curie High School Chemistry Camp in Taiwan and partnerships with a number of teacher training institutes in Malaysia. In addition to supporting schools and teachers in their chemistry teaching. The program also develops a wide range of skills and attitudes among the chemistry student volunteers who work delivering hands on activities. An overview of the program, the approach taken, and some examples of the activities will be followed by results of student interviews as they reflect on their development and learning.
Association of circulating long non‐coding RNA HULC expression with disease risk, inflammatory cytokines, biochemical index levels, severity‐assessed scores, and mortality of sepsis
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Feng Qiang , Wu Yiping , Feng Lingxiang , Yuan Haiyan , Hou Liyan , Wei Peixuan , Wang Chao , Wang Jingmei
Published: December 2020

Background

The present study aimed to explore the correlation of long non‐coding RNA highly up‐regulating in liver cancer (lncRNA HULC) with disease risk, inflammatory cytokines, biochemical indexes, disease severity, infective features, and 28‐day mortality of sepsis.

Methods

Totally 174 sepsis patients and 100 controls were enrolled. Peripheral blood samples were collected from sepsis patients after diagnosis and from controls at enrollment, respectively, and further for separation of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and serum samples. PBMC samples were for lncRNA HULC detection, and serum samples were for inflammatory cytokine detection.

Results

LncRNA HULC expression was increased in sepsis patients compared with controls. Moreover, lncRNA HULC was positively associated with TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐17, intercellular adhesion molecule 1, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, serum creatinine, white blood cell, and C‐reactive protein in sepsis patients, but not in controls. Furthermore, in sepsis patients, lncRNA HULC expression was positively correlated with acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II score and sequential organ failure assessment score, but not correlated with primary infection sites or primary infection organisms; meanwhile, lncRNA HULC expression was increased in deaths compared with survivors; subsequent receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that lncRNA HULC presented good value in predicting increased 28‐day mortality (AUC: 0.785, 95% CI: 0.713–0.857), and its independent predictive value for mortality was also verified by multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

LncRNA HULC is correlated with higher disease risk, severity, and inflammation and serves as an independent factor for predicting increased mortality, suggesting its potential in promoting accuracy of prognostic prediction for sepsis management.
Reliability of measurements of facial profile parameters by operators with different levels of experience at 15 to 23 weeks of gestation
Authors: Suwanrath Chitkasaem , Sawaddisan Rapphon , Booncharoen Pichaya
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To compare the reliability of measurements of five fetal facial profile parameters by operators with different levels of experience, at 15 to 23 weeks of gestation in Thai fetuses.

Methods

An observational study was conducted. The inferior facial angle, anteroposterior mandibular diameter, mandible width, maxilla width, and mandible length were measured in 123 normal fetuses, using 2D ultrasonography, by three operators with different levels of experience. Each participant was examined by two operators. Each operator performed three independent measurements for each parameter and was blinded to the results of the other. Reliability of measurement was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficient. Bland‐Altman analysis was used to evaluate agreement.

Results

The ability to obtain a mandible length measurement was highest (100%) among the five parameters. Intraobserver variabilities of anteroposterior mandibular diameter, mandible width, maxilla width, and mandible length measurements were excellent for all operators (ICC 0.958‐0.986), while those of inferior facial angle measurements were moderate to excellent (ICC 0.560‐0.923), depending on the operators' experience. Interobserver variabilities varied between pairs of operators; only two parameters, anteroposterior mandibular diameter and mandible length, showed excellent interobserver variabilities (ICC >0.9), with good agreement.

Conclusions

The mandible length measurement was the best parameter in terms of feasibility and reliability.
Individual predisposition and the intricate interplay between systemic biomarkers and periodontal risk in a general population
Authors: Meisel Peter , Nauck Matthias , Kocher Thomas
Published: December 2020

Background

Increasing age is associated with systemic diseases as well as with periodontal diseases. We wondered whether a biological age score constructed exclusively from systemic biomarkers would reflect periodontal risk factors at baseline and tooth loss as well as periodontal outcome during 10 years follow‐up.

Methods

From the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP) 2256 participants (1072 male, 1184 female) were studied for the relationship of the systemic biomarkers glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), fibrinogen, white blood cell count, blood pressure, and waist circumference to their age. Construction of a biological age (BA) score allowed its comparison with the participants’ actual chronological age (CA) and their predisposition to periodontal disease.

Results

Though nearly identical in CA, participants appearing younger than their true age had a significantly reduced burden of periodontal risk factors. If BA > CA, then risk factors were more frequent including smoking, oral hygiene, dental visits, education, and income. After 10 years, in participants with identical CA, tooth loss followed their BA calculated at baseline, that is, with BA > CA fewer teeth were preserved. Similarly, periodontal measures varied according to BA; sex differences were obvious. Most significant were BA‐related differences in inflammatory and anthropometry parameters.

Conclusions

The results support the assumption that risk profiles aggregated in BA constitute a characteristic susceptibility pattern unique to each individual, common to both systemic and periodontal diseases. Although BA was constructed exclusively from systemic measures at baseline, BA reflects the oral conditions at follow‐up.
Chemical enhancement effects on protoporphyrin IX surface‐enhanced Raman spectra: Metal substrate dependence and a vibronic theory analysis
Authors: McNeely James , Ingraham Harrison M. , Premasiri W. Ranjith , Ziegler Lawrence D.
Published: December 2020

Surface‐enhanced Raman spectra (SERS) of protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) and analogous metal‐containing PPIX compounds excited at 785 nm exhibit robust, strongly enhanced (~5 × 109) spectra that are highly dependent on the nanostructured metal (Au or Ag). Although the relative intensities of the 785‐nm SERS vibrational spectral features are very similar for all observed PPIX‐based compounds, the relative intensities are dramatically different on Au and Ag SERS substrates. Time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) calculations are carried out for Au2/Ag2–PPIX complexes to understand the origins of this chemical enhancement contribution to the observed SERS spectra. The observed metal dependence of the SERS spectra in the heme ring stretching region (1,500–1,620 cm−1) are reproduced by calculated resonance Raman intensities due to low‐lying metal (σ) to molecule (π*) charge transfer excitations of the metal dimer–PPIX complexes when the metal dimer is near a porphyrin ring Cβ position. The nuclear coordinate dependence of electronic transition moments is essential for capturing the effects of these CT excitations. A simple method for determining the importance of the transition moment normal mode dependence relative to Franck–Condon factors (A term) is described and implemented. The consequences of this vibronic analysis for the observation of overtone/combination bands in SERS spectra are discussed.
Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) Versus Non‐TORS Tongue Resection for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Kim Jeehong , Poole Barish , Cen Steven Yong , Sanossian Nerses , Kezirian Eric James
Published: December 2020

Objective

To compare transoral robotic surgery (TORS) versus non‐TORS tongue resection procedures performed for obstructive sleep apnea from January 2010 to September 2015 using a national database, focusing on patient characteristics, performance of concurrent procedures, operative time, length of hospital stay, and postoperative complications.

Methods

A cohort of adults undergoing TORS and non‐TORS tongue resection procedures was identified in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, a publicly‐available national administrative database incorporating a stratified sample of hospital discharge records. Outcomes were annual case volumes, prolonged (≥3 days) hospital stay, and complications. Statistical analyses examined potential associations between TORS and prolonged hospital stay and complications.

Results

From 2010 to 2015, 5709 hospital discharges included tongue resection surgery to treat obstructive sleep apnea. There was a gradual decline and stabilization in overall volumes, with the proportion of TORS use showing an initial increase, followed by a decrease and rebound increase. TORS patients were less likely to undergo concurrent nasal surgery (15% vs. 44%, P < .01), but there was no association between the use of TORS and concurrent palatal surgery. TORS use was not associated with concurrent hypopharyngeal surgery overall, but it was associated with specific types of hypopharyngeal surgery. TORS use was associated with patient age, payor, and certain hospital characteristics. TORS use was associated with an increased risk of prolonged hospital stay (33% vs. 25%, P = .045) but was not associated with complications.

Conclusion

This study provides insight into TORS use in tongue resection surgery for obstructive sleep apnea during this period of early TORS adoption.

Level of Evidence

Level 3 (cohort study). Laryngoscope, 131:E1735–E1740, 2021
Liver Transplant Recipient, Caregiver, and Provider Perceptions of Cardiovascular Disease and Related Risk Factors After Transplant
Authors: VanWagner Lisa B. , Gordon Elisa , Adamski Lindsay , Kosirog Megan , Daud Amna , Finn Daniel J. , Lloyd‐Jones Donald M. , Holl Jane L.
Published: December 2020

Liver transplant recipients (LTRs) are at high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). We sought to characterize LTR, informal caregiver, and health care provider perceptions about CVD care after liver transplantation (LT) to inform the design of solutions to improve care. Participants included adult LTRs, their caregivers, and multispecialty health care providers recruited from an urban tertiary care network who participated in 90‐minute focus groups and completed a brief survey. Focus group transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis, and survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. A total of 17 LTRs, 9 caregivers, and 22 providers participated in 7 separate focus groups. Most (93.3%) LTRs and caregivers were unaware of the risk of CVD after LT. Although 54.5% of providers were confident discussing CVD risk factors with LTRs, only 36.3% were confident managing CVD risk factors in LTRs, and only 13.6% felt that CVD risk factors in their LTR patients were well controlled. Barriers to CVD care for LTRs included (1) lack of awareness of CVD risk after LT, (2) lack of confidence in an ability to provide proper CVD care to LTRs, (3) reluctance to provide CVD care without transplant provider review, and (4) complexity of communication with the multidisciplinary LTR care team about CVD care. Participant recommendations included improved education for LTRs and caregivers about CVD risk factors, electronic health record alerts for providers, clearly defined CVD care provider roles, increased use of the transplant pharmacist, and multidisciplinary provider meetings to discuss care plans for LTRs. Multiple barriers to CVD care after LT were identified, and targeted recommendations were proposed by participants. Transplant centers should integrate participants’ recommendations when designing interventions to optimize CVD care for LTRs.
Multicomponent Polymerizations Involving Green Monomers
Authors: Wang Jia , Qin Anjun , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: December 2020

Green monomers, such as oxygen (O2), water (H2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2), refer to a kind of natural reagents with abundant, nontoxic, cheap, environmentally friendly, renewable, and sustainable features. These monomers have been used in multicomponent polymerizations (MCPs) toward functional polymers. In this review, the recent development of MCPs involving green monomers of O2‐, H2O‐, and CO2 is summarized. The catalytic systems, polymerization conditions, the molecular weights, and potential applications of resultant polymers are briefly discussed. Furthermore, the existing challenges and the promising opportunities are concisely provided.
A Fluorinated Thermocrosslinkable Organosiloxane: A New Low‐k Material at High Frequency with Low Water Uptake
Authors: Liu Fengping , Chen Xingrong , Hou Jiaren , Sun Jing , Fang Qiang
Published: December 2020

In order to obtain low‐k material with good comprehensive properties, a trifluoromethyl‐containing organosiloxane with thermocrosslinkable vinyl and benzocyclobutene groups is designed and synthesized through the Piers–Rubinsztajn reaction. After treating at high temperature, the organosiloxane changed to form a cross‐linked polysiloxane (called as c‐FSi‐BCB). c‐FSi‐BCB exhibits good dielectric properties with dielectric constant (Dk) of 2.60 and dielectric loss (Df) of 1.49 × 10−3 at a high frequency of 5 GHz. Importantly, c‐FSi‐BCB maintains such good dielectric properties and exhibits low water uptake of below 0.076%, even after immersing it in boiling water for 96 h. c‐FSi‐BCB also displays good thermostability with a 5% weight loss temperature (T5d) of 453 °C. These data indicate that this fluorinated organosiloxane is suitable as the matrix resin for the fabrication of devices used in 5G communication.
The Rostock International Parkinson's Disease (ROPAD) Study: Protocol and Initial Findings
Authors: Skrahina Volha , Gaber Hanaa , Vollstedt Eva‐Juliane , Förster Toni M. , Usnich Tatiana , Curado Filipa , Brüggemann Norbert , Paul Jefri , Bogdanovic Xenia , Zülbahar Selen , Olmedillas Maria , Skobalj Snezana , Ameziane Najim , Bauer Peter , Csoti Ilona , Koleva‐Alazeh Natalia , Grittner Ulrike , Westenberger Ana , Kasten Meike , Beetz Christian , Klein Christine , Rolfs Arndt ,   the ROPAD Study Group
Published: December 2020

Background

Genetic stratification of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients facilitates gene‐tailored research studies and clinical trials. The objective of this study was to describe the design of and the initial data from the Rostock International Parkinson's Disease (ROPAD) study, an epidemiological observational study aiming to genetically characterize ~10,000 participants.

Methods

Recruitment criteria included (1) clinical diagnosis of PD, (2) relative of participant with a reportable LRRK2 variant, or (3) North African Berber or Ashkenazi Jew. DNA analysis involved up to 3 successive steps: (1) variant (LRRK2) and gene (GBA) screening, (2) panel sequencing of 68 PD‐linked genes, and (3) genome sequencing.

Results

Initial data based on the first 1360 participants indicated that the ROPAD enrollment strategy revealed a genetic diagnostic yield of ~14% among a PD cohort from tertiary referral centers.

Conclusions

The ROPAD screening protocol is feasible for high‐throughput genetic characterization of PD participants and subsequent prioritization for gene‐focused research efforts and clinical trials. © 2020 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Permeability stability calculation model of foam‐conditioned soil based on the permeability constant
Authors: Wang Shuying , Huang Shuo , Zhong Jiazheng , Zhang Sheng , Hu Qinxin , Qu Tongming , Ye Xinyu
Published: December 2020

The low permeability of discharged muck must last for at least tens of minutes to avoid water spewing during earth pressure balance (EPB) shield tunneling; however, foam, which is usually added to soil to reduce its permeability, has its own unique time‐varying characteristics. Thus, it is important to predict the stable time of permeability of foam‐conditioned soil for EPB shield tunneling. Based on theories of the effective permeation channel of pure foam and fluid mechanics, a constant is proposed to predict the duration of the initial period during which the coefficient of permeability of the conditioned soil remains stable. A series of large‐scale permeation tests were carried out to determine the duration of the initial stable period for various foam‐conditioned soils, and it was verified that the predicted results were in good agreement with the measured results. Furthermore, based on the constant, practical concepts, including duration reference curves, optimum fineness, optimum porosity and critical particle size, are proposed for the spewing control of EPB shield tunneling.
Improving efficiency and robustness of enhanced assumed strain elements for nonlinear problems
Authors: Pfefferkorn Robin , Bieber Simon , Oesterle Bastian , Bischoff Manfred , Betsch Peter
Published: December 2020

The enhanced assumed strain (EAS) method is one of the most frequently used methods to avoid locking in solid and structural finite elements. One issue of EAS elements in the context of geometrically nonlinear analyses is their lack of robustness in the Newton–Raphson scheme, which is characterized by the necessity of small load increments and large number of iterations. In the present work we extend the recently proposed mixed integration point (MIP) method to EAS elements in order to overcome this drawback in numerous applications. Furthermore, the MIP method is generalized to generic material models, which makes this simple method easily applicable for a broad class of problems. In the numerical simulations in this work, we compare standard strain‐based EAS elements and their MIP improved versions to elements based on the assumed stress method in order to explain when and why the MIP method allows to improve robustness. A further novelty in the present work is an inverse stress‐strain relation for a Neo‐Hookean material model.
Processing temperature‐dependent distribution of multiwall carbon nanotube in poly(ethylene‐co‐1‐octene)/high density polyethylene for electrical conductivity and microwave shielding enhancement
Authors: Yue Tian‐Ning , Gao Ya‐Nan , Wang Ye , Shi Yu‐Dong , Shen Jia‐bin , Wu Hong , Wang Ming
Published: December 2020

Conductive polymer composites have attracted attention for their tunable electrical conductivity and microwave shielding performance by controlling the distribution of conductive fillers. In this work, the effect of processing temperature on the distribution of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in the high density polyethylene/poly(ethylene‐co‐1‐octene) (HDPE/POE) composites was investigated. The MWCNTs were premixed with HDPE to form HDPE/MWCNT master batches at 180°C, and then mixed with POE at different temperature of 140°C and 210°C. At high temperature of 210°C, the volume diffusion of MWCNTs would easily happen in the composites which made the MWCNTs be randomly dispersed in both HDPE and POE domains. At low temperature of 140°C, the MWCNTs could hardly diffuse from HDPE phase to POE phase because of the high viscosity of polymer matrix. Therefore, most of MWCNTs were confined dispersion in HDPE in the composites being prepared at low temperature, which exhibited high electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance and high conductivity. Specifically, the electrical conductivity of the HDPE/POE (58/42 v/v)/MWCNTs composites with 2.5 vol% MWCNTs increased from 7.4 × 10−2 to 0.78 S/m at the mixing temperature of 210°C and 140°C, respectively. The average EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) of the HDPE/POE (58/42 v/v)/MWCNTs composites with 4.0 vol% MWCNTs increased from approximately 19.7 to approximately 26.7 dB at the mixing temperature of 210°C and 140°C, respectively. This works provide a processing temperature controlling strategy to fabricate conductive polymer composites with high‐performance microwave shielding.
A synergy of activity, stability, and inhibitor‐interaction of HIV‐1 protease mutants evolved under drug‐pressure
Authors: Khan Shahid N. , Persons John D. , Guerrero Michel , Ilina Tatiana V. , Oda Masayuki , Ishima Rieko
Published: December 2020

A clinically‐relevant, drug‐resistant mutant of HIV‐1 protease (PR), termed Flap+(I54V) and containing L10I, G48V, I54V and V82A mutations, is known to produce significant changes in the entropy and enthalpy balance of drug‐PR interactions, compared to wild‐type PR. A similar mutant, Flap+(I54A), which evolves from Flap+(I54V) and contains the single change at residue 54 relative to Flap+(I54V), does not. Yet, how Flap+(I54A) behaves in solution is not known. To understand the molecular basis of V54A evolution, we compared nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, isothermal titration calorimetry, and enzymatic assay data from four PR proteins: PR (pWT), Flap+(I54V), Flap+(I54A), and Flap+(I54), a control mutant that contains only L10I, G48V and V82A mutations. Our data consistently show that selection to the smaller side chain at residue 54, not only decreases inhibitor affinity, but also restores the catalytic activity.
An evaluation of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (AM65‐52) treatment for the control of Aedes aegypti using vehicle‐mounted WALS® application in a densely populated urban area of Puerto Rico
Authors: Harris Angela F , Sanchez Prats Jose , Nazario Maldonado Nicole , Piovanetti Fiol Cesar , García Pérez Marla , Ramírez‐Vera Patricia , Miranda‐Bermúdez Julieanne , Ortiz Marianyoly , DeChant Peter
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

With a shortage of effective options for control of Aedes aegypti in Puerto Rico due to widespread resistance to conventional mosquito adulticides, an alternative approach was investigated to reduce vector populations. In two areas (totaling 144 ha) of the municipality of Bayamón, Puerto Rico, Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) AM65‐52 WDG was applied at a rate of 500 g/ha using vehicle‐mounted aqueous wide‐area larvicide spray applications weekly for 4 weeks and then every other week for a further 16 weeks. Bioassay jars were placed in the field to monitor for deposition of Bti droplets in open spaces, and under vegetation and building coverage. Autocidal gravid ovitraps were placed throughout the field site to monitor the population of adult female Ae. aegypti in both treatment and control sites.

RESULTS

Larvicide spray was successfully deposited into jars in an array of open and covered locations, as confirmed by larval bioassays. After the fourth weekly spraying, differences in autocidal gravid ovitrap densities were observed between treatment and control sites resulting in 62% (P = 0.0001) and 28% (P < 0.0001) reductions in adult female Ae. aegypti numbers.

CONCLUSION

Repeated wide‐area larvicide spray application of Bti AM65‐52 WDG to residential areas in Puerto Rico effectively suppressed dengue vector populations. The success of this trial has led to expansion of the WALS® program to a larger area of Bayamón and other municipalities in Puerto Rico. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
A new La‐Doped CuBi2O4 Catalysts for the Reduction of Nitroaromatic Compounds and Toxic Organic Dyes
Authors: Yang Li , Quan Shanyu , Li Ting , Shi Xuefeng , Liu Cong
Published: December 2020

The new La‐doped CuBi2O4 catalysts were prepared by one‐pot hydrothermal method. The prepared catalysts were investigated by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Hydrogen temperature‐programmed desorption (H2‐TPD), and Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The synthetic catalysts have been investigated for the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol and toxic organic dyes. La‐doping improve the surface electron transport and H2‐adsorption ability. The La−CuBi2O4(C) catalyst has higher electron transfer efficiency and stronger H absorption ability. It was proposed that the doped La3+ and surface hydrogen species play key roles in reduction reaction. The electron transfer can be achieved by La3+ capture electron to be reduced La2+, then La2+ return to original state. Meanwhile, the improvement of H absorption ability due to La‐doping is also benefit to reduce the 4‐NP. This study is helpful in acquiring an in‐depth insight into the catalytic role of doping.
Enhanced conversion of glucose to fructose over naturalattapulgite catalyst promoted by CeO2 in water
Authors: Li Bing , Jiang Huanhuan , Zhao Xuewei , Pei Zhangli , Zhang Qing
Published: December 2020

Fructose is an important platform compound for the production of chemicals and renewable fuels. Here, the CeO2/ATP catalysts were developed for glucose isomerization in water. The effects of CeO2 loading, glucose concentration and the catalyst dosage to glucose ratio on the activity for the reaction were investigated. Glucose was easily transformed over ATP in the presence of CeO2, and the 10 % CeO2/ATP catalyst exhibited a good fructose yield of 36.4 %. Meanwhile, the reaction activity of glucose was affected by glucose concentration and the catalyst dosage to glucose ratio, and more fructose would be generated at lower glucose concentration, wherein the highest yield of fructose was obtained 39.2 % at 5 % of glucose solution with the catalyst dosage to glucose ratio of 0.1. In addition, the characterization resultsrevealed that CeO2 had a positive interaction with ATP on the adjustment of its structural properties and the amount and distribution of basic sites, and therefore facilitated glucose isomerization.
Psychological and relational conditions for job crafting to occur
Authors: Huyghebaert‐Zouaghi Tiphaine , Berjot Sophie , Cougot Baptiste , Gillet Nicolas
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to provide a wider understanding of the determinants of job crafting by jointly considering employee well‐ and ill‐being (work engagement and exhaustion) and socio‐environmental factors (supervisor and colleague support) as possible levers to promote job crafting. A secondary goal of this research was to simultaneously explore the multidimensionality of work engagement and the potentially differentiated associations between the different facets of work engagement and job crafting behaviours. Questionnaire surveys were collected among 533 workers from various organizations located in France. Results from preliminary analyses showed the superiority of a Bifactor Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (B‐ESEM) representation of work engagement when compared to alternative representations of ratings of this multidimensional construct. Specifically, employees' ratings of work engagement simultaneously reflected a global work engagement construct, which co‐existed with specific vigor, dedication and absorption components. Results from a predictive model indicated that the different facets of work engagement held differentiated relations with job crafting behaviours, while exhaustion did not significantly relate to any job crafting behaviours. Colleague and supervisor support also held differentiated relations with the demands‐related job crafting behaviours, while both forms of support were associated with employees' seeking more job resources. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Strain Engineering in 2D Material‐Based Flexible Optoelectronics
Authors: Du Junli , Yu Huihui , Liu Baishan , Hong Mengyu , Liao Qingliang , Zhang Zheng , Zhang Yue
Published: December 2020

Flexible optoelectronics, as promising components hold shape‐adaptive features and dynamic strain response under strain engineering for various intelligent applications. 2D materials with atomically thin layers are ideal for flexible optoelectronics because of their high flexibility and strain sensitivity. However, how the strain affects the performance of 2D materials‐based flexible optoelectronics is confused due to their hypersensitive features to external strain changes. It is necessary to establish an evaluation system to comprehend the influence of the external strain on the intrinsic properties of 2D materials and the photoresponse performance of their flexible optoelectronics. Here, a focused review of strain engineering in 2D materials‐based flexible optoelectronics is provided. The first attention is on the mechanical properties and the strain‐engineered electronic properties of 2D semiconductors. An evaluation system with relatively comprehensive parameters in functionality and service capability is summarized to develop 2D materials‐based flexible optoelectronics in practical application. Based on the parameters, some strategies to improve the functionality and service capability are proposed. Finally, combining with strain engineering in future intelligence devices, the challenges and future perspective developing 2D materials‐based flexible optoelectronics are expounded.
Micro‐/Nano‐Structures on Biodegradable Magnesium@PLGA and Their Cytotoxicity, Photothermal, and Anti‐Tumor Effects
Authors: Zhou Weixiao , Zhang Yinling , Meng Si , Xing Chenyang , Ma Mingze , Liu Zhou , Yang Chengbin , Kong Tiantian
Published: December 2020

The size and structural control of particulate carriers for imaging agents and therapeutics are constant themes in designing smart delivery systems. This is motivated by the causal relationship between geometric parameters and functionalities of delivery vehicles. Here, both in vitro and in vivo, the controlling factors for cytotoxicity, photothermal, and anti‐tumor effects of biodegradable magnesium@poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid (Mg@PLGA) particulate carriers with different sizes and shell thicknesses are investigated. Mg@PLGA microspheres fabricated by microfluidic emulsification are shown to have higher Mg encapsulation efficiency, 87%, than nanospheres by ultrasonic homogenization, 50%. The photothermal and anti‐tumor effects of Mg@PLGA spheres are found to be dictated by their Mg content, irrelevant to size and structural features, as demonstrated in both in vitro cell assays and in vivo mice models. These results also provide important implications for designing and fabricating stimuli‐responsive drug delivery vehicles.
African Yam Bean the Choice for Climate Change Resilience: Need for Conservation and Policy
Authors: Nnamani C. V. , Adewale D. B. , Oselebe H. O. , Atkinson C. J.
Published: December 2020

Global warming has emerged as a major challenge to development and human wellbeing in Sub-Saharan Africa in general and Nigeria in particular. Periodic incidents show that this challenge will continue and increase in impact on all aspects of natural resources – agriculture, ecosystems services, biodiversity depletion, environmental degradation and human health. Recognizing the enormous potential of underutilized plant genetic resources (PGRs) is crucial as sources of solutions to a number of these threatening challenges emanating from climate change (food and nutrition insecurity, genetic erosion, loss of agro-biodiversity, green job growth and income generation) cannot be over-emphasized. Sphenostylis stenocarpa (Hochst. ex. A. Rich) Harms., commonly known as African yam bean (AYB) belonging to the leguminous Fabaceae, is an underutilized PGR with rich portfolio which could serve as vital source of robust adaption and resilient germplasm for vulnerable local communities in Nigeria. Its substantial nutritional, environmental, cultural, social, medicinal, industrial and soil restorative potentials underpins its position as climate – smart species. Enhancing the potentials of African yam bean via robust innovative approaches for wider utilization through accelerated research, farmer seed exchanges, in-situ and ex-situ conservations, farmers selection, and policy programs such as seed sovereignty will accentuate its adaptation and used as resilient climate –smart species  for the vulnerable groups in Nigeria to cushion impact of climate change.
Intersectional Perspective of Strengthening Climate Change Adaptation of Agrarian Women in Cameroon
Authors: Ngum Faith , Bastiaensen Johan
Published: December 2020

It is a widely accepted notion that climate change affects men and women within agrarian populations differently; consequently, their adaptation strategies are gendered. Besides climate change, women’s vulnerability and their corresponding adaptation strategies are embedded within a complex web of social identities/status, agroecological location, gender norm/roles and power struggles within the plurality of normative orders governing land (property rights). This chapter focuses on Cameroon and seeks to analyze how the interactions between various normative orders governing access to land, co-dependent upon the multiple gendered identities (intersectionality), impact climate change adaptation strategies of female farmers. The results show that the degree of vulnerability and adaptation strategies of women are context specific and gendered across the five distinct agroecological zones of Cameroon. Furthermore, secured access to and ownership over land is crucial in determining the adaptation choices and options available to female farmers. A complex mix of state and non-state norms govern property rights in Cameroon, within which women have to constantly negotiate their land claims. These negotiations are influenced by marital status, ethnicity, educational level, and community/social relations, such that the outcome translates differently for women within the Muslim, Anglophone, and Francophone communities. The chapter concludes with context-specific recommendations to strengthen the adaptive capacity of agrarian women across Cameroon.
Characteristics of Family Lives in Central Europe
Authors: Kraus Blahoslav , Ondrejkovič Peter , Krzysztof Świątkiewicz Wojciech , Vilka Lolita , Rieke Ursula , Trapenciere Ilze , Pankiv Lyudmila
Published: December 2020

In this chapter, authors give a picture of families in individual countries, which participated in the survey, so from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Germany, Poland, Ukraine and Latvia. They pay attention mainly to the family changes after the year 1990. There is mainly demographic situation. Furthermore, there are features which present contemporary family such as an increase of democratization in family coexistence in connection with the shifts of roles and disintegration in a family life linked with overall individualism manifested by automation, where one creates his/her own way of life. The contemporary family is more likely affected in all countries by progressive social differentiation; in a different level of unemployment, certain isolation and changes are always seen in intergeneration relationships. The authors also pay attention to family social policy and housing situation when starting a family.
Family Policies Across the Globe
Authors: Filgueira Fernando , Rossel Cecilia
Published: December 2020

This chapter analyzes family policies across the globe, describing patterns in the development of family allowances, leave schemes, and ECEC services both in developed and developing regions. Using the OECD family database and the ILO global social protection database, it compares the developments in family policy across different regions. The chapter reveals that the way regions and countries in the world have followed the main goals of family policy varies significantly, not only in terms of coverage and quality, but also in terms of design and context of implementation. Despite the efforts made in developing regions are still limited and rarely based on the idea of a universal set of interrelated transfers and services, there is still room for them to learn from the experience of the leaders in family policy.
Policies for Later-Life Families in a Comparative European Perspective
Authors: Dykstra Pearl A. , Djundeva Maja
Published: December 2020

In this chapter, we consider cross-national differences in policies for later-life families in Europe, focusing on state support freeing family members from caring responsibilities or enabling them to care. These policies come under the umbrella of long-term care (LTC), help required by persons with a reduced degree of functional capacity for an extended period of time. Publicly funded LTC includes “in-kind” services, where care is provided by professionals at home or in an institution, and “cash benefits” which can be used to purchase professional care or which can be paid to informal caregivers as income support. Apart from long-term care for dependents themselves, there are policies supporting family members in their caregiving tasks: “cash for care” (financial compensation for helping those with impairments), “care leaves” (the right to be absent from work in order to care), and “care credits” (time spent on caring that is credited towards a basic pension).
Company-Level Family Policies: Who Has Access to It and What Are Some of Its Outcomes?
Authors: Chung Heejung
Published: December 2020

Despite the increase in the number of studies that examine the cross-national variation in the policy configuration that allow a better work–family integration, very few look beyond the national levels. It is also crucial to examine occupational level welfare since companies may restrict or expand the existing national-level regulations, defining the “final availability” workers actually have toward various arrangements. In addition, companies may provide various additional arrangements through occupational policies which are not set out in the national-level agreements that are crucial in addressing reconciliation needs of workers. This chapter examines what types of arrangements are provided at the company level to address work–family demands of workers. It further provides a synthesis of studies that examine both national-level contexts and individual-level characteristics that explain who gets access to company-level family-friendly policies, which is linked to the possible outcomes of these policies.
Childcare Indicators for the Next Generation of Research
Authors: Sirén Sebastian , Doctrinal Laure , Van Lancker Wim , Nieuwenhuis Rense
Published: December 2020

This chapter argues for the importance of developing theoretically grounded family policy indicators, with emphasis on childcare/ECEC indicators. The chapter critically introduces the conceptual frameworks underpinning the most prevalent currents in comparative research, and then presents the most prominent empirical approaches utilized in existing studies. Next, it maps the availability of comparative data on the most widely used indicators and discusses the main sources from which this data originates. The final section concludes by pointing toward some challenges for the current research agenda, along with some tentative solutions. In particular, we argue for the need to engage in a research agenda that integrates family policies, including social care services, as essential components of social citizenship.
Family Policy: Neglected Determinant of Vertical Income Inequality
Authors: Nieuwenhuis Rense
Published: December 2020

This chapter develops a research agenda for examining family policy outcomes with respect to vertical economic inequality between households, arguing that family policies have wrongly been neglected as a determinant of vertical economic inequality. Three questions are central to this research agenda: who uses family policy, to what income effect, and with whom do people live? Family policies have been linked to women’s employment and earnings, and to lower vertical income inequality. Yet, the literature also makes abundantly clear that family policies come with trade-offs along the lines of gender and class, as well as Matthew effects. These mechanisms need to be better understood to integrate family policy in analyses of—and recommendation against—high and rising inequality. The challenge ahead is to understand what (combination of) family policies may be inclusive to a wide range of families across the full width of the income distribution.