bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of invasive alien plants in controlling Arionidae slugs
Authors: Laznik Ziga , Bohinc Tanja , Franin Kristijan , Majić Ivana , Trdan Stanislav
Published: March 2020

Aim of study: To develop an alternative slug control method, we explored the use of plant material from seven invasive plant species against Arion slugs.Area of study: The experiments were performed at the University of Ljubljana (Slovenia).Material and methods: In laboratory (exp. A-C) and semi-field studies (exp. D), we investigated the contact and barrier efficacy of plant material (powder or liquid formulation) of seven invasive plant species (Japanese knotweed, bohemian knotweed, Canadian goldenrod, giant goldenrod, staghorn sumac, tree of heaven, and false indigo) against Arion slugs. In order to test a contact efficacy of the substance (exp. A), slugs were rolled in a plant material powder. In exp. B, powder made from a plant material was used as a barrier for slugs. Antifeedant effect of the slugs was tested in exp. C, where lettuce leaves were treated with a liquid formulation of a plant material. In exp. D, all above mentioned techniques were used in a semi-field trial.Main results: The results of our studies showed that the plant material of staghorn sumac, giant goldenrod, and Japanese knotweed showed the strongest anti-feedant and barrier effects against the slugs. In the semi-field trial, only 7% of the plants treated with giant goldenrod plant material were attacked by slugs.Research highlights:  A contact efficacy of plant powders against Arion slugs was not confirmed in our investigation. Furthermore, several plant powders (goldenrods, staghorn sumac) showed good barrier efficacy. A semi-field trial showed that plant material (giant goldenrod) could represent an alternative solution in slug control.
Elite política regional e formação de um partido nacional: organização interna, desempenho eleitoral e extinção do Partido Republicano Liberal (Estado do Paraná, 1913-1915)
Authors: Gomes Sandro Aramis Richter
Published: March 2020

Este artigo apresenta uma análise sobre a participação de integrantes da elite política paranaense na criação de um partido nacional, o Partido Republicano Liberal (PRL). O objetivo deste estudo é a produção de um conhecimento sobre os fatores que ocasionaram a implantação e a dissolução da citada agremiação no Estado do Paraná, entre os anos de 1913 e 1915. Um argumento capital desta análise afirma que a elite dirigente do PRL no Paraná contava com a presença de egressos do partido governista que existia nesse estado. As lideranças municipais dessa agremiação também tiveram passagens pela agremiação situacionista. Assim, a fundação de diretórios desse partido no Paraná foi uma estratégia para antigos governistas permanecerem politicamente ativos. Outra constatação deste artigo salienta que o desempenho eleitoral de candidatos do PRL a deputado estadual foi mais expressivo do que o desempenho de candidatos avulsos.
Decision Support System for Selecting Sustainable Alternatives to Conventional Jet Fuel: Impact of Emissions, Production Costs and Carbon Pricing
Authors: Chandran Suresh , Anandarajan Murugan
Published: March 2020

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in June 2015, took a step toward regulating carbon emissions from airlines, following an assessment that airlines contribute to climate change. On July 25, 2016, the final endangerment finding (Note 1) under section 231(a) (2) (A) of the Clean Air Act for aviation emissions was issued by the EPA. The European Union had issued a similar finding previously and had proposed implementing an emission trading scheme in which the airlines would be required to participate in a cap and trade scheme for emissions from jet fuel. Traditional jet fuel is derived from petroleum, whose price is volatile and depends on geopolitical stability. Fuel burn is a significant cost for airlines and affects their profitability and value. Fuel burn is also a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. An investigation of alternatives to jet fuel and switching from conventional jet fuel based on varying emission profiles, production costs and varying carbon prices is therefore timely. We use a simple decision support system to examine the link between the life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions of a range of fuels, economic costs of production and varying carbon prices. This analysis should be of interest to regulators, traders, risk managers and executives in the airline industry as well as practitioners of sustainability management.
Modelagem de Redes Regulatórias para a Descoberta de Novos Biomarcadores de Doenças Complexas
Authors: Pompeu Rafael , Magalhães Leandro , Ribeiro-dos-Santos Ândrea , Vidal Amanda , Ara´ujo Gilderlanio S.
Published: March 2020

Este estudo apresenta uma proposta de modelagem de redes regulatórias extraindo dados biológicos públicos de três classes de elementos regulatórios (ncRNAs), tais como os miRNAs, circRNAs e piRNAs e suas relações (regulação e origem) com genes. A integração das redes de ncRNAs e sua associação com dados biológicos de importância clínica permitiu a identificação de genes candidatos que potencialmente atuam no desenvolvimento de doenças complexas. A partir das características de centralidade e sobreposição de ligações desta rede, identificamos novos genes e ncRNAs potenciais biomarcadores de doenças complexas consideradas graves problemas de saúde pública.
Discovering Subjectivity in the Technosystem
Authors: de Boer Bas ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: March 2020

Two of the main approaches of what is often referred to as the ‘empirical philosophy of technology’ are postphenomenology and critical constructivism. Critical constructivists charge postphenomenologists for paying too little attention to the fact that our society is co-constituted not only by technologies, but also by forms of rationality exercised on a political level. Postphenomenologists, then, charge critical constructivism for insufficiently recognizing that the way technologies are appropriated in the lifeworld often evades forms of institutionalized rationality. The goal of this paper is to show how these different approaches should not be juxtaposed, but can better be seen as complementary in the development of a political philosophy of technology. This will be made clear through a discussion of the role of STS in the work of Peter-Paul Verbeek, and in the work of Andrew Feenberg. I suggest that developing an ‘empirically informed’ political philosophy of technology requires to both recognize how technologies constitute particular forms of subjectivity and to understand the rational processes through which particular technologies are designed. When combining both of these insights, it becomes possible to articulate a normative position with regard to technological developments.
Meet the candidates for ALA president: Vote in the election this spring
Authors: Of College and Research Libraries Association
Published: March 2020

The ACRL Board of Directors posed the following questions to the candidates (Patricia “Patty” Wong and Steven Yates are ACRL members) for ALA president, and C&RL News is pleased to publish their responses. Each candidate was given 1,500 words to respond to seven questions and contribute an optional opening statement. The responses are identified under each question.
Book Review: Encyclopedia of Political Assassinations
Authors: Ellermann Marissa
Published: March 2020

Encyclopedia of Political Assassinations is a work that sets out to document global political assassinations that have occurred during the last century and a half. It is a one-volume encyclopedia with alphabetically arranged entries that are well researched and written with an objective tone. It also features an abbreviation and glossary section, a chronology, and multiple appendices to assist the reader. The author is very thorough, and although many entries are brief, they make good use of the space by covering both the significance of the victim and the outcome for the assassin.
Plebejer- og netværkspartier - nyere empirisk forskning i politiske partier
Authors: Hansen Bernhard
Published: March 2020

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LA CONTRIBUTION DE L’ÉCOLE PRIVÉE AU QUÉBEC À LA LITTÉRATIE ET À LA NUMÉRATIE DES 15 ANS : UNE ANALYSE PAR EFFETS DE TRAITEMENT
Authors: Lefebvre Pierre
Published: March 2020

Les élèves québécois au niveau secondaire sont considérés comme relativement performants sur la base de la moyenne générale obtenue aux tests internationaux (mathématiques, lecture, sciences) PISA. Cependant, il est peu connu que les scores des élèves du secteur privé, fortement présents à l’école secondaire, augmentent considérablement les moyennes rapportées. Néanmoins, une école avec des scores élevés à des tests standardisés peut être une école où les étudiants viennent de milieux très avantagés ou encore sont sélectionnés sur la base de leurs aptitudes ou classe sociale. L’impact de la non randomisation sur l’estimation d’un effet de traitement pose des défis analytiques comme les biais de sélection, de causalité ou de recrutement qu’il faut réduire et neutraliser. Sur la base des cinq enquêtes PISA (2000, 2003, 2006, 2009, 2012), quatre types d’estimateur économétrique d’appariement pour évaluer l’effet causal de traitement de l’école privée sont calculés. L’analyse conduit aussi à un exercice de falsification avec tous les élèves ontariens comme groupe non traité relativement aux élèves québécois en secondaire IV du secteur public ou du secteur privé. Les résultats suggèrent que la minorité importante des élèves qui fréquentent l’école privée au secondaire explique en partie la performance supérieure du Québec aux tests PISA, tant dans les écoles privées que publiques (par effet de concurrence). Selon les estimés plus conservateurs, l’école privée ajoute approximativement une année d’études en termes des scores de lecture et mathématiques. De façon plus importante, pour le développement du capital humain, les résultats soutiennent l’existence d’un effet causal important de l’école privée sur les niveaux (hiérarchie) mesurés des compétences par PISA.
FRONTIÈRES NATIONALES ET COMMERCE RÉGIONAL : QUELS ENSEIGNEMENTS POUR L’AFRIQUE CENTRALE?
Authors: Gandjon Fankem Cereg-Larea-Faseg Gislain Stéphane
Published: March 2020

Cet article analyse et évalue empiriquement l’effet des conséquences liées à l’existence des frontières nationales des pays de l’Afrique centrale sur son commerce interne. À partir de la méthode du pseudo-maximum de vraisemblance, nous estimons une équation de gravité, dérivée d’un modèle fondé théoriquement. Toutes choses égales par ailleurs, en moyenne, sur la période 1995-2010 en Afrique centrale, nos résultats montrent que la mauvaise qualité des infrastructures bilatérales, la petite taille des pays et les différences de richesse entre paires de pays, inhérentes à l’existence de frontières nationales, diminuent le commerce bilatéral de 15 %, 26 % et 19 % respectivement. Nous mettons également en évidence que ces facteurs expliquent une partie de l’effet frontière relevé dans la littérature. Ces résultats sont robustes au type de secteur considéré, à la diversification, à la volatilité des changes, aux conflits armés ainsi qu’au changement de mesure de distance.
LA TAXE TOBIN : NOUVELLES APPROCHES
Authors: Bismans Francis , Damette Olivier
Published: March 2020

Alors que l’utilité de l’instauration d’une taxe Tobin fait l’objet de débats intenses, les travaux scientifiques qui y sont consacrés sont globalement méconnus. Le présent article en rend compte en se focalisant sur un ensemble d’approches nouvelles, formalisées ou économétriques.
Recent advances on the estimation of the thermal reaction norm for sex ratios
Authors: Abreu-Grobois F. Alberto , Morales-Mérida B. Alejandra , Hart Catherine E. , Guillon Jean-Michel , Godfrey Matthew H. , Navarro Erik , Girondot Marc
Published: March 2020

Temperature-dependent sex determination, or TSD, is a widespread phenomenon in reptiles. The shape of the relationship between constant incubation temperature and sex ratio defines the TSD pattern. The TSD pattern is considered a life-history parameter important for conservation because the wider the range of temperatures producing both sexes, the more resilient the species is to climate change impacts. We review the different published equations and methodologies that have been used to model TSD patterns. We describe a new flexible model that allows for an asymmetrical pattern around the pivotal temperature, which is the constant temperature producing both sexes in equal proportions. We show that Metropolis-Hastings with Markov chain produced by a Monte Carlo process has many advantages compared to maximum likelihood and is preferred. Finally, we apply the models to results from incubation experiments using eggs from the marine turtleLepidochelys olivaceaoriginating in Northeast Indian, East Pacific, and West Atlantic Regional Management Units (RMUs) and find large differences in pivotal temperatures but not in transitional ranges of temperatures.
Over-liming in the Construction of the Fertility of Red Yellow Latosol with Different Phosphorus Sources
Authors: Carvalho Jessiane da Silva , Nunes Bruno Henrique Di Napoli , Silva da Luz João Henrique , Ribeiro Evandro Alves , Oliveira Hanrara Pires de , Freitas Gilson Araujo de , Marques Lara Couto , Alexandrino Gilson do Carmo , Silva Rubens Ribeiro da
Published: March 2020

The availability of P in Cerrado soils is a limiting factor for the satisfactory development of crops. It is known that the efficiency of phosphate fertilization is low and depends on several factors, such as solubility of fertilizers, soil texture, and soil acidity. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the availability of phosphorus as a function of different phosphate sources under the influence of pH, as well as to determine its fertilization efficiency in a red latosol. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse at Tocantins federal university, in DIC, Brazil was used, in a 3 x 5 + 1 scheme. A red-yellow Latosol was used and three sources of phosphate fertilization were evaluated: Mono-ammonic phosphate - MAP, single superphosphate - SS and Natural phosphate - FN, plus one treatment without fertilization, in five evaluation periods (0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days). Therefore, the pH in CaCl2 of the soil stabilized between (5.5 – 6.5) in approximately 83 days of incubation with the acidity concealer. The SS and MAP phosphate fertilizers promoted the highest available P contents, with 6.32 and 6.23 mg.d m−3, respectively. The use of FN showed low P levels during the evaluated incubation period, mainly due to its lower solubility.
Responding Strategies in Jordanian Arabic: A Socio-pragmatic Study
Authors: Amer Faten , Buragohain Dipima , Suryani Ina
Published: March 2020

This study aims to examine the types of response strategies employed in the interactions between Jordanians and the employees of the call-centre-customer service (CCCS) of a major tele-communications company in Jordan. It focuses on their linguistic behaviours upon responding taking into account the degree to which they adhere to Leech’s [1] maxims. Naturally-occurring interactions and designed situations were used to collect data from 28 Jordanian Arabic speakers participated in this study. The results of the study show that participants adhere to a number of the maxims in that responses are made politely whether the act is achieved or not. Furthermore, it has been revealed that participants are impacted by the social and cultural norms of the Jordanian society.
Vivid memories of distant trauma: Examining the characteristics of trauma memories and the relationship with the centrality of event and posttraumatic stress 26 years after trauma
Authors: Blix Ines , Birkeland Marianne S. , Thoresen Siri
Published: March 2020

In the present study, we investigated the phenomenological characteristics of distant trauma memories and the relationship between the vividness of trauma memories, the centrality of event and symptoms of posttraumatic stress in two groups with different types of trauma exposure, namely survivors and bereaved, from the fire on the passenger ferry, Scandinavian Star, 26 years earlier. More than two decades after the fire, the traumatic event was represented as a vivid, emotional recollection for many of the victims. For both the survivors and the bereaved, a higher degree of vividness of trauma memories and centrality of the event were associated with higher levels of posttraumatic stress. The present findings show that even very distant trauma memories can be represented as vivid recollections. Furthermore, the findings suggest that both vividness of trauma memories and event centrality may contribute to explain how posttraumatic stress reactions can remain present over a very long time.
Graphene–Rubber Layered Functional Composites for Seismic Isolation of Structures
Authors: Marsico Maria Rosaria , Londoño Monsalve Julián Mauricio , Shin Dong-Wook , Craciun Monica Felicia
Published: March 2020

Herein, novel graphene‐reinforced elastomeric isolators (GREI) are proposed. Elastomeric isolators (EIs) are special devices used for seismic isolation of structures. They are made of alternate layers of steel and rubber (steel‐reinforced EI [SREI]), and they position between the structure and its foundations to decouple them. The heavy weight and complex manufacturing process of SREI drives costs up, and this restricts their use to strategic buildings such as hospitals and civic centers. In recent years, alternative materials have been proposed to replace the steel sheets of SREI, e.g., glass or carbon fiber‐reinforced EIs (FREIs). However, their mechanical behavior requires further investigation before being implemented in existing and new structures safely. As a promising alternative, GREI is proposed here to overcome the heavy weight and long manufacturing process of SREI and the mechanical limitation of FREI to seismic excitations.
Improved Toughness of a High‐Strength Low‐Alloy Steel for Arctic Ship by Ni and Mo Addition
Authors: Tian Yong , Zhou Jinhua , Shen Yongfeng , Qu Zhizhong , Xue Wenying , Wang Zhaodong
Published: March 2020

The effect of Ni and Mo addition on the microstructures of a high strength low alloy (HSLA) steel under the thermo‐mechanical control processing (TMCP) process is currently unknown, which is herein explored by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). As the Ni increase from 0.6 to 0.9 wt%, the volume fraction of bainitic ferrite increase from 30% to 50%, the average size decrease from 3 to 2 μm, and the size of the martensite–austenite (M–A) constituent decrease from 1.2 to 0.7 μm. The volume fraction of bainitic ferrite increases from 30% to 85%, and grain size increases from 3 to 5 μm with increasing Mo from 0 to 0.2 wt%. The size of M–A constituent decreases from 1.2 to 0.3 μm. Impact absorbed energy at −100 °C increases from 50 to 70 J as the Ni increase from 0.6 to 0.9 wt%, which decreases from 50 to 10 J with increasing Mo from 0 to 0.2 wt%. The improved impact toughness mainly results from the decreasing size of the grain and the M–A constituent with the increase in Ni from 0.6 to 0.9 wt%.
Innovations in 3D Tissue Models of Human Brain Physiology and Diseases
Authors: Lovett Michael L. , Nieland Thomas J. F. , Dingle Yu‐Ting L. , Kaplan David L.
Published: March 2020

3D laboratory tissue cultures have emerged as an alternative to traditional 2D culture systems that do not recapitulate native cell behavior. The discrepancy between in vivo and in vitro tissue‐cell‐molecular responses impedes understanding of human physiology in general and creates roadblocks for the discovery of therapeutic solutions. Two parallel approaches have emerged for the design of 3D culture systems. The first is biomedical engineering methodology, including bioengineered materials, bioprinting, microfluidics, and bioreactors, used alone or in combination, to mimic the microenvironments of native tissues. The second approach is organoid technology, in which stem cells are exposed to chemical and/or biological cues to activate differentiation programs that are reminiscent of human (prenatal) development. This review article describes recent technological advances in engineering 3D cultures that more closely resemble the human brain. The contributions of in vitro 3D tissue culture systems to new insights in neurophysiology, neurological diseases, and regenerative medicine are highlighted. Perspectives on designing improved tissue models of the human brain are offered, focusing on an integrative approach merging biomedical engineering tools with organoid biology.
Dual 3D Ceramic Textile Electrodes: Fast Kinetics for Carbon Oxidation Reaction and Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Direct Carbon Fuel Cells at Reduced Temperatures
Authors: Bian Wenjuan , Wu Wei , Orme Christopher J. , Ding Hanping , Zhou Meng , Ding Dong
Published: March 2020

Direct carbon fuel cells (DCFCs) are an efficient energy‐conversion technology capable of generating electricity with carbon‐dioxide‐capture chemistry with solid carbon as fuels. The efficiency and performance of DCFCs depend on the kinetics of the carbon oxidation reactions (COR) and the oxygen reduction reactions (ORR), each occurring at anode and cathode, respectively. The limited active sites paired with reduced temperatures greatly decrease the efficiency of the electrochemical reactions. Ultraporous dual‐3D ceramic textiles (dual‐3DCT) are integrated into electrolyte‐supported DCFCs to enhance charge and mass transfer at the electrodes. Improved COR at the anode is achieved by the synergy between the 3DCT NiO–Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.95 (GDC) structure and optimal carbon fuel choice. In a comparative study, DCFCs using graphitic carbon (GC) as fuel show the best COR performance when compared to DCFCs utilizing alternative fuels such as carbon black (CB) and activated carbon (AC). The 3DCT Sm0.5Sr0.5CoO3‐δ–GDC (SSC–GDC) composite cathode shows electrochemical performance superior to that of the conventional screen‐printed SSC–GDC. A peak power density of 392 mW cm−2 at 600 °C is obtained in a DCFC using the 3DCT‐anode/electrolyte/3DCT‐cathode configuration, an unprecedented value for any reported DCFC as of yet. This points toward promising applications of dual‐3DCT electrodes for reduced‐temperature DCFCs.
Low Roll‐Off Perovskite Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes Achieved by Augmenting Hole Mobility
Authors: Wang Yu , Teng Yu , Lu Po , Shen Xinyu , Jia Pei , Lu Min , Shi Zhifeng , Dong Bin , Yu William W. , Zhang Yu
Published: March 2020

The external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) of perovskite quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (QD‐LEDs) are close to the out‐coupling efficiency limitation. However, these high‐performance QD‐LEDs still suffer from a serious issue of efficiency roll‐off at high current density. More injected carriers produce photons less efficiently, strongly suggesting the variation of ratio between radiative and non‐radiative recombination. An approach is proposed to balance the carrier distribution and achieve high EQE at high current density. The average interdot distance between QDs is reduced and this facilitates carrier transport in QD films and thus electrons and holes have a balanced distribution in QD layers. Such encouraging results augment the proportion of radiative recombination, make devices with peak EQE of 12.7%, and present a great device performance at high current density with an EQE roll‐off of 11% at 500 mA cm−2 (the lowest roll‐off known so far) where the EQE is still over 11%.
A Microchannel‐Confined Crystallization Strategy Enables Blade Coating of Perovskite Single Crystal Arrays for Device Integration
Authors: Deng Wei , Jie Jiansheng , Xu Xiuzhen , Xiao Yanling , Lu Bei , Zhang Xiujuan , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: March 2020

Perovskite single crystals (PSCs) possess superior optoelectronic properties compared to their corresponding polycrystalline films, but their applications of PSCs in high‐performance, integrated devices are hindered by their heavy thickness and difficulty in scalable deposition. Here, a microchannel‐confined crystallization (MCC) strategy to grow uniform and large‐area PSC arrays for integrated device applications is reported. Benefiting from the confinement effect of the microchannels, solution flow dynamics is well controlled, and thus uniform deposition of PSC arrays with suitable thickness is achieved, meaning they are applicable for scale‐up device applications. The resulting PSCs possess excellent optoelectronic properties in terms of a long carrier lifetime (175 ns) and an ultralow defect density (2 × 109 cm−3), which are comparable to the corresponding bulk crystals. The unique embedded structure of PSCs within the microchannels allows the construction of a high‐integration image sensor. This work paves the way toward high‐throughput growth of PSCs for integrated optoelectronic devices.
Engineered 2D Transition Metal Dichalcogenides—A Vision of Viable Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Catalysis
Authors: Lin Liangxu , Sherrell Peter , Liu Yuqing , Lei Wen , Zhang Shaowei , Zhang Haijun , Wallace Gordon G. , Chen Jun
Published: March 2020

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is an emerging key technology to provide clean, renewable energy. Current state‐of‐the‐art catalysts still rely on expensive and rare noble metals, however, the relatively cheap and abundant transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have emerged as exceptionally promising alternatives. Early studies in developing TMD‐based catalysts laid the groundwork in understanding the fundamental catalytically active sites of different TMD phases, enabling a toolbox of physical, chemical, and electronic engineering strategies to improve the HER catalytic activity of TMDs. This report focuses on recent progress in improving the catalytic properties of TMDs toward highly efficient production of H2. Combining theoretical and experimental considerations, a summary of the progress to date is provided and a pathway forward for viable hydrogen evolution from TMD driven catalysis is concluded.
Pt‐Ir‐Pd Trimetallic Nanocages as a Dual Catalyst for Efficient Oxygen Reduction and Evolution Reactions in Acidic Media
Authors: Zhu Jiawei , Xie Minghao , Chen Zitao , Lyu Zhiheng , Chi Miaofang , Jin Wanqin , Xia Younan
Published: March 2020

The development of dual catalysts with high efficiency toward oxygen reduction and evolution reactions (ORR and OER) in acidic media is a significant challenge. Here an active and durable dual catalyst based upon cubic Pt39Ir10Pd11 nanocages with an average edge length of 12.3 nm, porous walls as thin as 1.0 nm, and well‐defined {100} facets is reported. The trimetallic nanocages perform better than all the reported dual catalysts in acidic media, with a low ORR‐OER overpotential gap of only 704 mV at a Pt‐Ir‐Pd loading of 16.8 µgPt+Ir+Pd cm−2geo. For ORR at 0.9 V, when benchmarked against the commercial Pt/C and Pt‐Pd nanocages, the trimetallic nanocages exhibit an enhanced mass activity of 0.52 A mg−1Pt+Ir+Pd (about four and two times as high as those of the Pt/C and Pt‐Pd nanocages) and much improved durability. For OER, the trimetallic nanocages show a remarkable mass activity of 0.20 A mg−1Pt+Ir at 1.53 V, which is 16.7 and 4.3 fold relative to those of the Pt/C and Pt‐Pd nanocages, respectively. These improvements can be ascribed to the highly open structure of the nanocages, and the possible electronic coupling between Ir and Pt atoms in the lattice.
History of pancreatic surgery in Japan: Respect to the Japanese pioneers of pancreatic surgery
Authors: Yamaue Hiroki
Published: March 2020

The first report of pancreatoduodenectomy was the abstract of Japan Surgical Society in 1946 by Kuru, followed by a publication by Yoshioka (Geka, 1950). The first report of total pancreatectomy was done by Honjo in 1950 (Shujutsu). Thus, the history of pancreatic surgery in Japan dawned in the 1950s. From 1970 to 1980, the American surgeon Fortner had reported the drastic concept of regional pancreatectomy with extensive dissection of vessels and connective tissues around the pancreas. A lot of Japanese surgeons were influenced by this concept and attempted to perform the extensive surgery of pancreatic cancer, especially the Japanese pioneers who had investigated the clinical benefits of extensive surgery with dissection of nerve plexus and lymph nodes around the superior mesenteric artery. Then, Japanese surgeons had a great attention for limited resection of the pancreas for borderline malignancies, and Japan was the number one country for pancreatic surgery for all pancreatic diseases, from advanced pancreatic cancer to borderline malignancies. The next step for these pioneers was how to reduce morbidities after pancreatic surgery, especially pancreatoduodenectomy. Due to the effects of technical development, drain management, and nutritional consideration, the incidences of pancreatic fistula and delayed gastric emptying decreased dramatically in the past 10 years. Moreover, the development of chemotherapeutic drugs has provided a new era of conversion surgery, similar to esophageal surgery, and one should pay great attention to more aggressive surgery, including distal pancreatectomy with en bloc celiac axis resection (DP‐CAR). Thus, we have to inherit the passion and mentality of the Japanese pioneers of pancreatic surgery and develop safer and more secure surgical techniques to reduce the morbidities and elongate the survival of pancreatic cancer patients.
Azaruthena(II)‐bicyclo[3.2.0]heptadiene: Key Intermediate for Ruthenaelectro(II/III/I)‐catalyzed Alkyne Annulations
Authors: Yang Long , Steinbock Ralf , Scheremetjew Alexej , Kuniyil Rositha , Finger Lars H. , Messinis Antonis M. , Ackermann Lutz
Published: March 2020

A ruthenium‐catalyzed electrochemical dehydrogenative annulation reaction of imidazoles with alkynes has been established, enabling the preparation of various bridgehead N‐fused [5,6]‐bicyclic heteroarenes through regioselective electrochemical C−H/N−H annulation without chemical metal oxidants. Novel azaruthenabicyclo[3.2.0]heptadienes were fully characterized and identified as key intermediates. Mechanistic studies are suggestive of an oxidatively induced reductive elimination pathway within a ruthenium(II/III) regime.
Anchoring of Cu (II)‐Schiff base complex on magnetic mesoporous silica nanoparticles: catalytic efficacy in one‐pot synthesis of 5‐substituted‐1H‐tetrazoles, antibacterial activity evaluation and immobilization of α‐amylase
Authors: Ahmadi Ameneh , Sedaghat Tahereh , Motamedi Hossein , Azadi Roya
Published: March 2020

Magnetic mesoporous silica nanocomposite, Fe3O4@MCM‐41, was prepared and functionalized with N‐(2‐aminoethyl)‐3‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (AEAPS). Then Schiff base grafted nanoparticles were synthesized by the condensation of 5,5'‐methylene bis (salicylaldehyde) and then benzhydrazide with Fe3O4@MCM‐41‐AEAPS. Finally, by adding Cu (CH3COOH)2.H2O, the magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) functionalized with Cu (II) Schiff base complex were synthesized. The new organic–inorganic hybrid nanocomposite was characterized by FT‐IR, PXRD, AAS, BET, TGA, VSM, FE‐SEM, HRTEM and EDX techniques. Then, the performance of this copper based magnetic nanocatalyst was investigated for the synthesis of 5‐substituted 1H‐tetrazole derivatives using one pot three‐component reactions of various aldehydes, hydroxyl amine hydrochloride and sodium azide. The catalyst can be easily isolated from the reaction mixture by applying an external magnet and reused for at least 5 times without significant loss in catalytic activity. Also, the antibacterial activity of the streptomycin loaded magnetic nanoparticles against Gram‐positive (S. aureus) and Gram‐negative (E. coli) bacteria in the presence and absence of a magnetic field were studied. Results revealed that when these materials exposed to the magnetic field, bacteriostatic activity of nanocomposites was increased. Furthermore, the enzyme immobilization ability of the synthesized compounds was investigated and the results showed that these nanoparticles efficiently immobilized amylase enzyme.
An Environmental Analysis of Reusable and Disposable Surgical Gowns
Authors: Vozzola Eric , Overcash Michael , Griffing Evan
Published: March 2020

Surgical gowns help protect patients from exposure to microorganisms and serve as personal protective equipment for perioperative staff members. Medical textiles, including surgical gowns, are available as reusable and disposable products. Health care facility administrators and leaders who endeavor to use environmentally sustainable practices require current data for decision making. This study analyzed all activities from the extraction of fossil materials from the earth to the end‐of‐life disposal of reusable and disposable surgical gowns. The researchers included calculations for laundry and wastewater treatment operations and compared the environmental effects of the two surgical gown systems. The study results showed that selection of reusable gowns rather than disposable gowns reduced natural resource energy consumption (64%), greenhouse gas emissions (66%), blue water consumption (83%), and solid waste generation (84%). Perioperative nurses can use this information to assist facility leaders as they make informed decisions related to gown system selection.
A Protocol for the Safe Use of Hazardous Drugs in the OR
Authors: Hemingway Maureen W. , Meleis Laura , Oliver Jevon , Silvestri Sandra
Published: March 2020

Hazardous drug (HD) use in the perioperative environment poses unique challenges and risks for exposure that can have adverse consequences for perioperative personnel. The United States Pharmacopeial Convention has implemented new standards to address the safe handling and administration of HDs by health care workers. To comply with these standards and minimize perioperative personnel's occupational exposure to HDs, a multidisciplinary team at an academic medical center in Boston that was performing an increased number and variety of operative and other invasive procedures using antineoplastic agents updated their protocol for the safe use of HDs in the OR. This article discusses HDs and the risks they pose to health care workers and outlines the new HD safety protocol for the OR that was part of a performance improvement plan to ensure compliance with new standards and staff member safety in the perioperative setting.
Chemically Functionalized Two‐Dimensional Carbon Materials
Authors: Sekiya Ryo , Haino Takeharu
Published: March 2020

Nanographenes (NGs), also known as graphene quantum dots, have recently been developed as nanoscale graphene fragments. These nanocarbon species can be excited with UV light and emit light from the UV‐to‐visible region. This photoemission has received great attraction across multiple scientific fields. NGs can be produced by cutting off carbon sources or fusing small organic molecules to grow graphitic structures. Furthermore, the organic synthesis of NGs has been intensely studied. Recently, the number of research papers on postsynthetic modification of NGs has gradually increased. Installed organic groups can tune the properties of NGs and provide new functionalities, opening the door for the development of sophisticated carbon‐based functional materials. This review sheds light on recent progress in the postsynthetic modification of NGs and provides a brief summary of their production methods.
CAMERS‐B: CRISPR/Cpf1 assisted multiple‐genes editing and regulation system for Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Wu Yaokang , Liu Yanfeng , Lv Xueqin , Li Jianghua , Du Guocheng , Liu Long
Published: March 2020

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and CRISPR‐associated proteins (CRISPR‐Cas) systems have been widely used in genome editing and transcriptional regulation. In this study, by engineering the Francisella novicida U112 CRISPR/Cpf1 system, a powerful tool called CRISPR/Cpf1 assisted multiple‐genes editing and regulation system for B. subtilis was constructed for engineering Bacillus subtilis, and a synthetic oligos mediated assembly of CRISPR RNA (crRNA) array method was created to build crRNA array. This system can achieve the double genes in‐frame knocking out, multiple point mutations (up to six), or single gene insertion at a time with 100% efficiency. In addition, transcriptional regulation systems were also developed using the DNase deactivated Cas protein (dCpf1) and a transcription factor RemA, which can implement repression and activation on multiple‐genes concurrently. Finally, as a proof‐of‐concept demonstration, the synthesis pathways of N‐acetylglucosamine and acetoin in B. subtilis were engineered by using this system. Overall, we provide effective tools for genome editing and metabolic engineering of B. subtilis cell factories to produce various biochemicals.
How cultural dimensions, legal systems, and industry affect environmental reporting? Empirical evidence from an international perspective
Authors: Gallego‐Álvarez Isabel , Pucheta‐Martínez María Consuelo
Published: March 2020

Past research has paid little attention to the impact of stakeholder engagement, cultural, legal, and industrial contexts on environmental disclosure. Thus, the aim of this paper is to explore how these three institutional factors affect the reporting of environmental information by companies in different countries. This research draws on institutional theory: normative isomorphism, coercive isomorphism, and mimetic isomorphism. This study uses the generalised method of moments procedure. The findings show that the legal system and certain cultural dimensions such as individualism, uncertainty avoidance, long‐term orientation, and indulgence are determinants of voluntary disclosure of environmental information (individualism and indulgence—negatively; uncertainty avoidance and long‐term orientation—positively), particularly when companies belong to industries with high environmental risk.
A novel method for predicting superior gluteal nerve safe zones in the lateral approach to the hip
Authors: Piponov Hristo , Osmani Feroz A. , Parekh Amit , Brooker Jay M. , Abraham Edward , Hussain Awais K. , Patetta Michael J. , Gonzalez Mark H.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

The superior gluteal nerve (SGN) is at risk for laceration during lateral approach total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study is to assess the accuracy of the trochanter‐to‐iliac crest distance (TCD) and the nerve‐to‐trochanter distance (NTD) ratio in determining a reproducible safe zone around the SGN independent of height.

Materials and Methods

Eighteen hemipelvises were dissected and the SGNs were exposed. The distance (NTD) from greater trochanter (GT) to the most inferior branch of the SGN encountered in each of the three approaches (Bauer et al., 1979) was measured. A reference distance (TCD) was measured from the GT to the highest point on the iliac crest. The NTD was divided by the TCD to generate standardized ratios. Coefficient of variation CV = (SD/mean) × 100 was calculated for each distance and ratio to measure relative variability.

Results

The standardized ratios (and CV) were determined for the nerve branches in three different surgical approaches: Hardinge 0.464 (0.9%), Bauer 0.406 (1.7%), and Frndak 0.338 (4.1%). There was a strong correlation of the individual NTDs with the TCD: NTD for Hardinge (r = 0.996, p < .001), NTD for Bauer (r = 0.984, p < .001), and NTD for Frndak (r = 0.932, p < .001).

Conclusion

By measuring the TCD preoperatively and using the respective standardized ratios, surgeons can accurately predict the NTD and how proximal to the GT each SGN branch can be expected to be encountered during lateral approach to the hip. This will allow surgeons to work with a more precise safe zone around the SGN and minimize the possibility for a nerve injury.
Developing computational thinking with a module of solved problems
Authors: Rodríguez del Rey Yailem Arencibia , Cawanga Cambinda Isabel Nissandra , Deco Claudia , Bender Cristina , Avello‐Martínez Raidell , Villalba‐Condori Klinge Orlando
Published: March 2020

Computational thinking (CT) has been recognized as a collection of understandings and skills required for new generations of students not only proficient at using tools, but also at creating them and understanding the implication of their capabilities and limitations.The objective of this research was to develop a module of solved problems for the development of CT in first‐year computer engineering students at the University of Cienfuegos, Cuba. Students depend on current research to understand the definition, function, and culture of CT and to consider how it can improve their analytical and critical skills. A contextualized definition of the CT method is proposed as a cognitive process executed by humans to solve problems using computational concepts. This method improves CT in terms of decomposition, pattern recognition, algorithm design, abstraction, data representation, problem decomposition, algorithmic thinking, and generalization of patterns, simulation and evaluation. The research carried out is an experimental design with a pretest and a posttest, with a control group and an experimental group to which the intervention was applied, both with 18 students. This article describes a study developing and incorporating CT modules and assessing their effect on the comprehension of CT principles by preservation teachers as well as their computing attitude. The results show that the implementation of analytical thought in education courses will successfully affect the comprehension of CT principles by preservice students.
LINC00174 is an oncogenic lncRNA of hepatocellular carcinoma and regulates miR‐320/S100A10 axis
Authors: Zhao Jin‐Tao , Chi Bao‐Jin , Sun Yao , Chi Nan‐nan , Zhang Xue‐mei , Sun Jia‐bin , Chen Ying , Xia Yong
Published: March 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers. Multiple long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are recently identified as crucial oncogenic factors or tumour suppressors. In this study, we explored the effects of LINC00174 on the progression of HCC. Expression levels of LINC00174 and microRNA‐320 (miR‐320) in HCC tissue samples were measured using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). The association between pathological indices and LINC00174 was also analysed. Human HCC cell lines Hep3B and Huh7 were used as cell models. CCK‐8 and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) assays were used to assess the effect of LINC00174 on HCC cell line proliferation. Flow cytometry was used to study the effect of LINC00174 on HCC apoptosis. Transwell assay was conducted to detect the effect of LINC00174 on migration and invasion. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay were used to confirm the binding relationship between miR‐320 and LINC00174. Additionally, western blot was used to detect the regulatory function of LINC00174 on oncogene S100 calcium binding protein A10 (S100A10). We demonstrated that LINC00174 expression in HCC clinical samples was significantly increased and this was correlated with higher T stage. Its overexpression remarkably accelerated proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells while reduced apoptosis. Accordingly, knockdown of it suppressed the malignant phenotypes of HCC cells. Overexpression of LINC00174 significantly reduced the expression of miR‐320 by sponging it, in turn enhanced the expression of S100A10. In conclusion, LINC00174 is a sponge of tumour suppressor miR‐320, enhances the expression of S100A10 indirectly and functions as an oncogenic lncRNA in HCC.

Significance of the study

LINC00174 is a novel lncRNA, whose function is rarely investigated. It is reported that it is oncogenic in colorectal cancer, while its role in HCC remains unclear. Herein, we report that LINC00174 is significantly up‐regulated in HCC tissues and promotes the malignant phenotypes. We demonstrate that LINC00174 functions as a sponge for miR‐320, increases the expression level of oncogene S100A10 in HCC. This study helps clarify the mechanism of HCC tumorigenesis and progression, and uncover the role of LINC00174 in human disease.
Percutaneous Impella RP use for refractory right heart failure in adolescents and young adults—A multicenter U.S. experience
Authors: Qureshi Athar M. , Turner Mariel E. , O'Neill William , Denfield Susan W. , Aghili Nima , Badiye Amit , Gandhi Radhakrishan , Tehrani Behnam , Chang George , Oyama Jared K. , Sinha Shashank , Brozzi Nicolas , Morray Brian
Published: March 2020

Objective

To assess the outcomes of the use of the percutaneous Impella RP device (Abiomed, Danvers, MA) in adolescents and young adults.

Background

Results of the Impella RP device have been reported in adults, but a multicenter experience in adolescents and young adults has yet to be reported.

Methods

Patients ≤21 years of age who underwent implantation of an Impella RP device for refractory right heart failure from June, 2016 to April, 2018 at nine U.S. Centers were included.

Results

A total of 12 adolescents, median age of 18 (14–21) years and median weight 74.4 (49–112.4) kg underwent Impella RP implantation (INTERMACS Profile 1 in nine and Profile 2 in three patients. The central venous pressure decreased from 20 (16–35) to 12 (7–17) mmHg, (p = .001). One patient was concomitantly supported with an intra‐aortic balloon pump (IABP) and the rest with a percutaneous/surgically placed left ventricular assist device. There was one adverse event related to the Impella RP device (thrombosis requiring explant). The support duration was 6.5 days (4.8 hr–18.4 days) and survival to hospital discharge was 83%. At a median follow‐up of 11 months (5 days–2.5 years), 8 of 12 (67%) patients are alive.

Conclusions

In this multicenter experience, the Impella RP device was found to be efficacious and safe when used in adolescents and young adults. Further studies are warranted to identify suitable young/pediatric candidates for Impella RP therapy for right heart failure.
Scalable Synthesis of a MoS2/Black Phosphorus Heterostructure for pH‐Universal Hydrogen Evolution Catalysis
Authors: Liang Tingting , Liu Yaoda , Cheng Yize , Ma Fei , Dai Zhengfei
Published: March 2020

The exploration and scalable synthesis of the earth‐abundant and excellent electrocatalysts without noble metal are crucial to the future hydrogen production and application. Herein, an affordable electrocatalyst is built through an in‐situ growth of MoS2 nanosheets vertically on the electro‐exfoliated black phosphorus (EEBP) for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The electro‐exfoliation achieves the high‐yield production of few‐layer BP lamellae from its bulk crystal, hosting the scalable synthesis of uniform MoS2/EEBP heterostructure. Moreover, the vertical growth manner can effectively aggrandize the exposed MoS2 edge sites and probably advance the catalytic activity to a certain extent. As for HER, such a MoS2/EEBP heterostructure exhibits promising catalytic performance with low overpotentials of 126 mV, 237 mV and 258 mV at 10 mA cm−2 (η10) as well as low Tafel slopes in both acid, alkaline and neutral media, respectively. The rationales behind the satisfactory catalytic properties are explained by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Theoretically, it is revealed that the MoS2/EEBP heterostructure with a more neutral hydrogen adsorption energy can benefit the electrons migration and boost the water dissociation kinetics. This study presents an effective method to design and fabricate highly efficient heterostructure electrocatalysts through interface engineering towards hydrogen production.