bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of Static and Fatigue Strength of Short Sisal Fiber Biocomposites by Low Fraction Nanotubes
Authors: Pantano A. , Bongiorno F. , Marannano G. , Zuccarello B. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThanks to good mechanical performances, high availability, low cost and low weight, the agave sisalana fiber allows to obtain biocomposites characterised by high specific properties, potentially very attractive for the replacement of synthetic materials in various industrial fields. Unfortunately, due to the low strength versus transversal damage processes mainly related to the matrix brittleness and/or to the low fiber/matrix adhesion, the tensile performance of random short fiber biocomposites are quite low, and to date most of the fiber treatments proposed in literature to improve the fiber-matrix adhesion, have not led to very satisfactory results. In order to overcome such a drawback, this work in turn proposes the proper introduction of low fractions carbon nanotubes to activate advantageous improvements in matrix toughness as well as fiber-matrix bridging effects, that can both lead to appreciable increments of the tensile strength.Systematic experimental static and fatigue tests performed on high quality biocomposites obtained by an optimized compression molding process, have shown that the introduction of 1% of carbon nanotubes is sufficient to gives significant improvement in both stiffness and static tensile strength, respectively by approximately 28% and 30%. Furthermore, toughening the biocomposite with 1% of nanotubes results in an appreciable enhancement in lifetime of at least 3 orders of magnitude. Biocomposites with 2% of CNTs show instead more limited improvement of 13% in stiffness, 6% in strength and 150% in lifetime. Also, a thorough analysis of the damage processes by SEM micrographs, as well as of the main fatigue data, has allowed to determine the model that can be used to predict the fatigue performance of such biocomposites.
Matrix Metalloproteinases Repress Hypertrophic Growth in Cardiac Myocytes
Authors: Euler Gerhild , Locquet Fabian , Kociszewska Joanna , Osygus Yvonne , Heger Jacqueline , Schreckenberg Rolf , Schlüter Klaus-Dieter , Kenyeres Éva , Szabados Tamara , Bencsik Péter , Ferdinandy Péter , Schulz Rainer 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Purpose
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are identified as modulators of the extracellular matrix in heart failure progression. However, evidence for intracellular effects of MMPs is emerging. Pro- and anti-hypertrophic cardiac effects are described. This may be due to the various sources of different MMPs in the heart tissue. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to determine the role of MMPs in hypertrophic growth of isolated rat ventricular cardiac myocytes.

Methods
Cardiomyocytes were isolated form ventricular tissues of the rat hearts by collagenase perfusion. RT-qPCR, western blots, and zymography were used for expression and MMP activity analysis. Cross-sectional area and the rate of protein synthesis were determined as parameters for hypertrophic growth.

Results
MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9 and MMP-14 mRNAs were detected in cardiomyocytes, and protein expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-14 was identified. Hypertrophic stimulation of cardiomyocytes did not enhance, but interestingly decreased expression of MMPs, indicating that downregulation of MMPs may promote hypertrophic growth. Indeed, the nonselective MMP inhibitors TAPI-0 or TIMP2 and the MMP-2-selective ARP-100 enhanced hypertrophic growth. Furthermore, TAPI-0 increased phosphorylation and thus activation of extracellular signaling kinase (ERK) and Akt (protein kinase B), as well as inhibition of glycogen synthase 3β (GSK3β). Abrogation of MEK/ERK- or phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase(PI3K)/Akt/GSK3β-signaling with PD98059 or LY290042, respectively, inhibited hypertrophic growth under TAPI-0.

Conclusion
MMPs’ inhibition promotes hypertrophic growth in cardiomyocytes in vitro. Therefore, MMPs in the healthy heart may be important players to repress cardiac hypertrophy.
Behaviour of freshwater snails (Radix balthica) exposed to the pharmaceutical sertraline under simulated predation risk
Authors: Hedgespeth Melanie Lea , Karasek Tomasz , Ahlgren Johan , Berglund Olof , Brönmark Christer 
Published: January 2021

AbstractDue to their potential for affecting the modulation of behaviour, effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the environment are particularly interesting regarding interspecies interactions and non-consumptive effects (NCEs) induced by predator cues in prey organisms. We evaluated the effects of sertraline (0.4, 40 ng/L, 40 µg/L) over 8 days on activity and habitat choice in the freshwater snailRadix balthica, on snails’ boldness in response to mechanical stimulation (simulating predator attack), and their activity/habitat choice in response to chemical cues from predatory fish. We hypothesised that sertraline exposure would detrimentally impact NCEs elicited by predator cues, increasing predation risk. Although there were no effects of sertraline on NCEs, there were observed effects of chemical cue from predatory fish on snail behaviour independent of sertraline exposure. Snails reduced their activity in which the percentage of active snails decreased by almost 50% after exposure to fish cue. Additionally, snails changed their habitat use by moving away from open (exposed) areas. The general lack of effects of sertraline on snails’ activity and other behaviours in this study is interesting considering that other SSRIs have been shown to induce changes in gastropod behaviour. This raises questions on the modes of action of various SSRIs in gastropods, as well as the potential for a trophic “mismatch” of effects between fish predators and snail prey in aquatic systems.
Taking issue with how the Work-integrated Learning discourse ascribes a dualistic meaning to graduate employability
Authors: Björck Ville 
Published: January 2021

AbstractWork-integrated Learning (WIL) is renowned for providing abridgebetween ‘theory’ and ‘practice’ that fosters ‘employable graduates’. This study critically argues that the WIL discourse continues to ascribe a dualistic meaning tograduate employabilitythat primarily contributes to creating the so-calledtheory–practice gapfor students. As an argument towards such a conclusion, a genealogical discourse analysis of how the graduate employability idea operates in 87 present and past official documents concerning the Cooperative Education (Co-op) WIL model is used. Two accounts of graduate employability, theantagonisticpractice acclaiming account and theharmonioustheory and practice account, recur in both the present and past documents. Both accounts contribute to creating the gap, while the latter also contributes to bridging it. The non-dualistic account, which involves knowing that the key to becoming employable is understanding how both research-based and informal theory shape daily occupational work, could be a useful alternative to these accounts. This is because it could encourage students to see how theory is a form of knowledge manifested in, rather than disconnected from, this work. However, the usual WIL design, whereby universities and workplaces outside universities are respectively institutionalised as the places where ‘theory’ and ‘practice’ is learnt, is not so much instrumental in spreading this non-dualistic account, but rather implies to students that ‘theory’ is absent from daily work until they apply it. Thus, I discuss how establishing physical and/or virtual countersites to the usual WIL design could potentially spread this account to students.
Remote learning and students’ mental health during the Covid-19 pandemic: A mixed-method enquiry
Authors: Lischer Suzanne , Safi Netkey , Dickson Cheryl 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThe disruption caused by Covid-19 in the educational sector may last longer than originally predicted. To better understand the current situation, this article analyses the mental health status of university students during the pandemic and investigates the learning conditions needed to support students. The sample included 557 undergraduate students who took part in an online survey. Overall, the students reported coping well during lockdown but indicated that lecturers were challenged by distance teaching, which created some stress for the students.
In situ X-ray absorption study of Cu species in Cu-CHA catalysts for NH3-SCR during temperature-programmed reduction in NO/NH3
Authors: Negri Chiara , Borfecchia Elisa , Martini Andrea , Deplano Gabriele , Lomachenko Kirill A. , Janssens Ton V. W. , Berlier Gloria , Bordiga Silvia 
Published: January 2021

AbstractAmmonia-mediated selective catalytic reduction (NH3-SCR) using Cu-exchanged chabazite zeolites as catalysts is one of the leading technologies for NOx removal from exhaust gases, with CuII/CuI redox cycles being the basis of the catalytic reaction. The amount of CuII ions reduced by NO/NH3 can be quantified by the consumption of NO during temperature-programmed reduction experiments (NO-TPR). In this article, we show the capabilities of in situ X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES), coupled with multivariate curve resolution (MCR) and principal component analysis (PCA) methods, in following CuII/CuI speciation during reduction in NO/NH3 after oxidation in NO/O2 at 50 °C on samples with different copper loading and pretreatment conditions. Our XANES results show that during the NO/NH3 ramp CuII ions are fully reduced to CuI in the 50–290 °C range. The number of species involved in the process, their XANES spectra and their concentration profiles as a function of the temperature were obtained by MCR and PCA. Mixed ligand ammonia solvated complexes [CuII(NH3)3(X)]+ (X = OH−/O− or NO3−) are present at the beginning of the experiment, and are transformed into mobile [CuI(NH3)2]+ complexes: these complexes lose an NH3 ligand and become framework-coordinated above 200 °C. In the process, multiple CuII/CuI reduction events are observed: the first one around 130 °C is identified with the reduction of [CuII(NH3)3(OH/O)]+ moieties, while the second one occurs around 220–240 °C and is associated with the reduction of the ammonia-solvated Cu-NO3− species. The nitrate concentration in the catalysts is found to be dependent on the zeolite Cu loading and on the applied pretreatment conditions. Ammonia solvation increases the number of CuII sites available for the formation of nitrates, as confirmed by infrared spectroscopy.
An intersectional approach to analyse gender productivity and open access: a bibliometric analysis of the Italian National Research Council
Authors: Ruggieri Roberta , Pecoraro Fabrizio , Luzi Daniela 
Published: January 2021

AbstractGender equality and Open Access (OA) are priorities within the European Research Area and cross-cutting issues in European research program H2020. Gender and openness are also key elements of responsible research and innovation. However, despite the common underlying targets of fostering an inclusive, transparent and sustainable research environment, both issues are analysed as independent topics. This paper represents a first exploration of the inter-linkages between gender and OA analysing the scientific production of researchers of the Italian National Research Council under a gender perspective integrated with the different OA publications modes. A bibliometric analysis was carried out for articles published in the period 2016–2018 and retrieved from the Web of Science. Results are presented constantly analysing CNR scientific production in relation to gender, disciplinary fields and OA publication modes. These variables are also used when analysing articles that receive financial support. Our results indicate that gender disparities in scientific production still persist particularly in STEM disciplines, while the gender gap is the closest to parity in medical and agricultural sciences. A positive dynamic toward OA publishing and women’s scientific production is shown when disciplines with well-established open practices are related to articles supported by funds. A slightly higher women’s propensity toward OA is shown when considering Gold OA, or authorships with women in the first and last article by-line position. The prevalence of Italian funded articles with women’s contributions published in Gold OA journals seems to confirm this tendency, especially if considering the weak enforcement of the Italian OA policies.
Is absence of evidence of pain ever evidence of absence?
Authors: Brown Deborah J. , Key Brian 
Published: January 2021

AbstractAbsence of evidence arguments are indispensable to comparative neurobiology. The absence in a given species of a homologous neural architecture strongly correlated with a type of conscious experience in humans should be able to be taken as a prima facie reason for concluding that the species in question does not have the capacity for that conscious experience. Absence of evidence reasoning is, however, widely disparaged for being both logically illicit and unscientific. This paper argues that these concerns are unwarranted. There is no logical barrier to formulating cogent absence of evidence arguments; indeed, accepting such arguments is part of what it is to be committed to falsifiability as a critical aspect of the scientific method. Absence of evidence arguments can always be blocked, however, by assuming that psychological properties are ‘multiply realizable’. While we take multiple realizability to be highly likely at some level of analysis, we argue that it is question-begging to assume that it exists at every level of analysis, and thus it should not automatically be thought to undermine absence of evidence reasoning in the animal consciousness debate. Using the example of pain and focusing on homologies at the level of information processing tasks, we show how, in the science of consciousness, an absence of evidence might well serve as evidence of absence.
Co-Modification of Bentonite by CTAB and Silane and its Performance in Oil-Based Drilling Mud
Authors: Guo Miao , Yang Guangbin , Zhang Shengmao , Zhang Yujuan , Gao Chuanping , Zhang Chunli , Zhang Pingyu 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThe stability, dispersion, and rheological properties of clay suspensions are important in the process of drilling. Organic clays were obtained traditionally by cation exchange, which is thermally unstable due to weak electrostatic interaction between the cationic surfactant and clay minerals. The purpose of the present study was to yield a stable and well dispersed organic bentonite (OBent) as a rheological additive for oil-based drilling mud. The co-modified method was used to modify bentonite by a cationic surfactant (cetyltrimethoxyammonium bromide: CTAB) and a silane coupling agent (hexadecyltrimethoxysilane: HDTMS). Firstly, the basal spacing of bentonite was enlarged by intercalation of CTAB, and the thermal stability of bentonite was improved by covalent bonds of HDTMS onto the bentonite platelets. The as-prepared OBent was characterized by infrared analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The hydrophobicity, solubility, viscosity, and tribological performance of the OBent were also recorded. The test results showed that the hydrophobicity of the co-modified bentonite was improved significantly, and was greater than that of bentonite modified with single surfactant CTAB or HDTMS. The bentonite modified by the surfactant together with the silane coupling agent had stable rheology and a lower coefficient of friction than the single surfactant-modified bentonite because more HDTMS entered into the interlayer spaces and formed chemical bonds at the inner surface of platelets.
Why Composition Matters
Authors: Bailey Andrew M. , Brenner Andrew 
Published: January 2021

AbstractMany say that ontological disputes are defective because they are unimportant or without substance. In this paper, we defend ontological disputes from the charge, with a special focus on disputes over the existence of composite objects. Disputes over the existence of composite objects, we argue, have a number of substantive implications across a variety of topics in metaphysics, science, philosophical theology, philosophy of mind, and ethics. Since the disputes over the existence of composite objects have these substantive implications, they are themselves substantive.
Efficacy of artemisinin–lumefantrine for treatment of uncomplicated malaria after more than a decade of its use in Kenya
Authors: Kishoyian Gabriel , Njagi Eliud N. M. , Orinda George O. , Kimani Francis T. , Thiongo Kevin , Matoke-Muhia Damaris 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
The resistance of Plasmodium falciparum to antimalarial drugs remains a major impairment in the treatment and eradication of malaria globally. Following the introduction of artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), there have been reports of delayed parasite clearance. In Kenya, artemether–lumefantrine (AL) is the recommended first-line treatment of uncomplicated malaria. This study sought to assess the efficacy of AL after a decade of use as the preferred method of managing malarial infections in Kenya. We assessed clinical and parasitological responses of children under 5 years between May and November 2015 in Chulaimbo sub-County, Kisumu, Kenya. Patients aged between 6 and 60 months with uncomplicated P. falciparum mono-infection, confirmed through microscopy, were enrolled in the study. The patients were admitted at the facility for 3 days, treated with a standard dose of AL, and then put under observation for the next 28 days for the assessment of clinical and parasitological responses. Of the 90 patients enrolled, 14 were lost to follow-up while 76 were followed through to the end of the study period. Seventy-five patients (98.7%) cleared the parasitaemia within a period of 48 h while one patient (1.3%) cleared on day 3. There was 100% adequate clinical and parasitological response. All the patients cleared the parasites on day 3 and there were no re-infections observed during the stated follow-up period. This study, therefore, concludes that AL is highly efficacious in clearing P. falciparum parasites in children aged ≥6 and ≤60 months. The study, however, underscores the need for continued monitoring of the drug to forestall both gradual ineffectiveness and possible resistance to the drug in all target users.
Fourth Circuit Upholds Hospital's Right to Terminate HIV-Positive Surgeon
Authors: J.K.T.  
Published: January 2021

On April 3, 1995, the Fourth Circuit upheld the right of a Maryland hospital to terminate a surgeon who was HIV-positive (John Doe v. University of Maryland Medical System Corp. (50 F.3d 1261 (4th Cir. 1995)). A resident in the University of Maryland Neurosurgical Training Program was dismissed when hospital administrators learned of his infection with HIV. The resident, known as Dr. Doe, claimed that his termination violated federal laws protecting persons with disabilities. The court upheld the hospital's actions as lawful and affirmed the trial court's grant of summary judgment for the hospital.Dr. Doe charged that his dismissal from the training program violated the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Antitrust: U.S. Supreme Court Affirms FTC Jurisdiction but Vacates Scope of Analysis on CDA Policy
Authors: Zakhary Joseph R. 
Published: January 2021

In California Dental Association v. FTC, 119 S. Ct. 1604 (1999), the U.S. Supreme Court reviewed a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit that a nonprofit affiliation of dentists violated section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act (FTCA), 15 U.S.C.A. § 45 (1998), which prohibits unfair competition. The Court examined two issues: (1) the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) jurisdiction over the California Dental Association (CDA); and (2) the proper scope of antitrust analysis. The Court unanimously held that CDA was subject to FTC's jurisdiction, but split 5-4 in its finding that the district court's use of abbreviated rule-of-reason analysis was inappropriate.CDA is a voluntary, nonprofit association of local dental societies. It boasts approximately 19,000 members, who constitute roughly threequarters of the dentists practicing in California. Although a nonprofit, CDA includes for-profit subsidiaries that financially benefit CDA members. CDA gives its members access to insurance and business financing, and lobbies and litigates on their behalf. Members also benefit from CDA marketing and public relations campaigns.
Constitutional Law: U.S. Supreme Court Clarifies Procedural Requirements for Workers’ Compensation Benefits Claim
Authors: Collins Kathleen A. 
Published: January 2021

The U.S. Supreme Court held, in American Manufacturers Mutual Insurance Co. v. Sullivan, 119 S. Ct. 988 (1999), that state workers’ compensation system insurers cannot be sued for withholding health care benefits for work-related injuries while they decide whether the treatment is “reasonable” and “necessary.” The respondents, ten employees and two organizations representing employees who received medical benefits under the Workers’ Compensation Act, brought a 42 U.S.C. § 1983 action against state officials, the Pennsylvania State Workers’ Insurance Fund, private insurers, and the school district, alleging that their due process rights were violated by provisions of the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act (Act), 77 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 1 et seq. (West 1992 & Supp. 1998). The Act permits suspension of benefits without notice or opportunity to be heard pursuant to a “utilization review” process.To control costs, Pennsylvania amended its workers’ compensation system in 1993. Under the Act, an employer or its insurer must pay for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment.