bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Where Can the Crow Make Friends? Sci‐Hub's Activities in the Library of Development Studies and its Implications for the Field
Authors: Sagemüller Frederik , Meißner Luise , Mußhoff Oliver 
Published: January 2021

ABSTRACTThis study examines data on the worldwide use of the shadow library website Sci‐Hub. It focuses particularly on the discipline of development studies, taking a critical look at current practices in scientific publishing and their implications for scientific conduct in this field. In the context of discussions about open science, the data demonstrate that Sci‐Hub represents an existing network of open access literature. The study first describes the extent and geographic distribution of download requests from Sci‐Hub and then identifies the underlying socio‐economic drivers (i.e. GDP and population). The authors find that Sci‐Hub is used the most by researchers from the global South, primarily from middle‐income countries, whereas researchers from the poorest countries in the data set use Sci‐Hub the least. This approach allows some conclusions to be drawn about factors that have an effect on a functioning open access network.
The effects of foreign aid on rebel governance: Evidence from a large‐scale US aid program in Syria
Authors: Carnegie Allison , Howe Kimberly , Lichtenheld Adam , Mukhopadhyay Dipali 
Published: January 2021

AbstractExisting research generally finds that foreign aid is ineffective in bolstering perceptions of governance, especially in conflict‐affected countries. Yet while most studies have focused on aid provided to state actors, this paper examines the link between aid and popular support for governing institutions in rebel‐held territory. We argue that aid can improve opinions of these institutions when they are embedded in the demographic, aspirational, and experiential solidarities of their communities. To evaluate our theory, we analyze new perceptions of data collected from residents of 27 rebel‐held communities inside Syria from 2014 to 2016. We find a modest but positive effect of aid on perceptions of local institutions, but only when the institutions were not imposed by outside actors. These results are further supported by a case study of Raqqa City, which shows that aid only boosted citizens’ views of the local governing body when it was embedded within the community.
Effect on thickness of a single‐layer mouthguard of positional relationship between suction port of the vacuum forming device and the model
Authors: Takahashi Mutsumi , Bando Yogetsu 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBackground/AimWearing a mouthguard reduces the risk of sport‐related injuries, but the thickness has a large effect on its efficacy and safety. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect on the thickness of a single‐layer mouthguard of the positional relationship between the suction port of the vacuum forming device and the model.Materials and MethodsEthylene‐vinyl‐acetate sheets of 4.0‐mm‐thickness and a vacuum forming machine were used. Two hard plaster models were prepared: Model A was 25‐mm at the anterior teeth and 20‐mm at the molar, and model B was trimmed so the bucco‐lingual width was half that of model A. Three model positions on the forming table were examined: (a) P20, where the model anterior rim was located in front of the suction port, (b) P30, where the model anterior rim and front edge of the suction port were close, and (c) P43, where the model anterior rim and palatal rim were located on the suction port. Six mouthguards were fabricated for each condition. Thickness differences due to model form and model position were analyzed.ResultsThickness differences due to model form were observed at the incisal edge and labial surface, and model A was significantly thicker than model B in P43 (P<.01). The thickness of the incisal edge and labial surface was significantly greatest in P43 for model A, but in P30 for model B.ConclusionsThe effect of the model position on the forming table on suppressing the labial thickness reduction of the mouthguard depended on the bucco‐lingual width of the model. It is important to position the model anterior rim away from the sheet frame if the bucco‐lingual width of the model is large and to place the model anterior rim in front of the suction port if the width is small.
Dental students’ perceptions on a simulated practice using patient‐based customised typodonts during the transition from preclinical to clinical education
Authors: Lee Bora , Kim Jong‐Eun , Shin Seung‐Ho , Kim Jang‐Hyun , Park Ji‐Man , Kim Ki‐Yeol , Kim Soo‐Yoon , Shim June‐Sung 
Published: January 2021

AbstractPurpose/ObjectivesDental students experience difficulties during the transition from preclinical to clinical curriculum. In order to help the students to adapt to the clinical education programme, a simulated practice using patient‐based customised models was introduced in this study to prepare for their first clinical practice.MethodsThis study included 45 third‐year predoctoral students (D3 students) who were about to perform the preparation of a single crown abutment on their first patient. After practicing abutment preparation using simulated models and providing the actual treatment to their own patient, the students were surveyed to investigate their perceptions on the simulated practice using the 3D‐printed customised typodont model. The statistical analysis of the quantitative data and the thematic analysis of the qualitative data were conducted.ResultsRegarding this simulation, more than 80% of the students gave positive feedback on their practice of (a) operative positions and postures, (b) finger rest, (c) occlusal reduction, (d) axial reduction and (e) proximal reduction. Student responses on the open‐ended questions about how they perceived the usefulness of this simulation were categorised as “First clinical case,” “Patient‐based model” and “Realistic simulation environment.” In addition, a number of improvements of the simulation were also suggested by the students including the typodont and the manikin.ConclusionsThis study gives insights into the significance of simulated practice using patient‐based customised typodonts as a transitional education tool and its direction of development in the field of restorative treatments accompanied by irreversible tooth preparations.
The action of hyaluronan in functional properties, morphology and expression of matrix effectors in mammary cancer cells depends on its molecular size
Authors: Tavianatou Anastasia‐Gerasimoula , Piperigkou Zoi , Koutsakis Christos , Barbera Carlo , Beninatto Riccardo , Franchi Marco , Karamanos Nikos K. 
Published: January 2021

Breast cancer constitutes a heterogeneous disease. The expression profiles of estrogen receptors (ERs), as well as the expression patterns of extracellular matrix (ECM) macromolecules, determine its development and progression. Hyaluronan (HA) is an ECM molecule that regulates breast cancer cells' properties in a molecular size‐dependent way. Previous studies have shown that 200‐kDa HA fragments modulate the functional properties, morphology, and expression of several matrix mediators of the highly metastatic ERα−/ERβ+ MDA‐MB‐231 cells. In order to evaluate the effects of HA fragments (< 10, 30 and 200‐kDa) in ERβ‐suppressed breast cancer cells, the shERβ MDA‐MB‐231 cells were used. These cells are less aggressive when compared with MDA‐MB‐231 cells. To this end, the functional properties, the morphology, and the expression of the molecules associated with breast cancer cells metastatic potential were studied. Notably, both cell proliferation and invasion were significantly reduced after treatment with 200‐kDa HA. Moreover, as assessed by scanning electron microscopy, 200‐kDa HA affected cellular morphology, and as assessed by qPCR, upregulated the epithelial marker Ε‐cadherin. The expression profiles of ECM mediators, such as HAS2, CD44, and MMP7, were also altered. On the other hand, cellular migration and the expression levels of syndecan‐4 (SDC‐4) were not significantly affected in contrast to our observations regarding MDA‐MB‐231 cells. These novel data demonstrate that the molecular size of the HA determines its effects on ERβ‐suppressed breast cancer cells and that 200‐kDa HA exhibits antiproliferative effects on these cells. A deeper understanding of this mechanism may contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies against breast cancer.
Interspecific and intraspecific phenotypic diversity for drought adaptation in bioenergy Arundo species
Authors: Faralli Michele , Williams Kevin , Corke Fiona , Li Mingai , Doonan John H. , Varotto Claudio 
Published: January 2021

AbstractBiomass crops are commonly grown in low‐grade land and selection of drought‐tolerant accessions is of major importance to sustain productivity. In this work, we assess phenotypic variation under different environmental scenarios in a series of accessions of Arundo donax, and contrast it with two closely related species, Arundo donaciformis and Arundo plinii. Gas‐exchange and stomatal anatomy analysis showed an elevated photosynthetic capacity in A. plinii compared to A. donax and A. donaciformis with a significant intraspecific variation in A. donax. The three species showed significantly contrasting behaviour of transpiration under developing water stress and increasing vapour pressure deficit (VPD), with A. donax being the most conservative while A. plinii showed an elevated degree of insensitivity to environmental cues. Under optimal conditions, A. donax had the highest estimated leaf area (projected leaf area) and plant dry weight although a significant reduction under water stress was observed for A. donax and A. donaciformis accessions while no differences were recorded for A. plinii between optimal growing conditions (well‐watered [WW]) and reduced soil water availability (water‐stressed [WS]). A. donax displayed a markedly conservative water use behaviour but elevated sensitivity of biomass accumulation under stress conditions. By contrast, in A. plinii, biomass and transpiration were largely insensitive to WS and increasing VPD, though biomass dry weight under optimal conditions was significantly lower than A. donax. We provide evidence of interspecific phenotypic variation within the Arundo genus while the intraspecific phenotypic plasticity may be exploited for further selection of superior clones under disadvantageous environmental conditions. The extensive trade‐off between water use and biomass accumulation present in the three species under stress conditions provides a series of novel traits to be exploited in the selection of superior clones adapted to different environmental scenarios. Non‐destructive approaches are provided to screen large populations for water‐stress‐tolerant A. donax clones.
Boric acid as an adjunct to periodontal therapy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bashir Nasir Zeeshan , Krstic Milan 
Published: January 2021

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of boric acid as an adjunct to non‐surgical periodontal therapy, in comparison with a placebo adjunct, in terms of changes in probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL), in patients with periodontitis.MethodsFour electronic databases were searched from inception to May 2020 (PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, EMBASE via OVID and Web of Science). Clinical outcomes were extracted, pooled and meta‐analyses conducted using mean difference with standard deviations.ResultsFor PPD, a mean additional reduction of 0.58 mm (95% CI: −0.03–1.19 mm, p = 0.06) was observed at 3 months and a mean additional reduction of 1.18 mm (95% CI: 0.97–1.40 mm, p < 0.05) at 6 months, compared with placebo.For CAL, a mean additional gain of 0.62 mm (95% CI: −0.07–1.32 mm, p = 0.08) was observed at 3 months and a mean additional gain of 1.24 mm (95% CI: 0.89–1.58 mm, p < 0.05) at 6 months, compared with placebo. No adverse events were reported in any studies.ConclusionsThe adjunctive use of boric acid in non‐surgical periodontal therapy results in improved treatment outcomes at 3 and 6 months, with no adverse events reported.
Comprehensive approach for preserving cavernous nerves and erectile function after radical prostatectomy in the era of robotic surgery
Authors: Haga Nobuhiro , Miyazaki Takeshi , Tsubouchi Kazuna , Okabe Yu , Shibayama Kan , Emoto Daiki , Matsuoka Wataru , Maruta Hiroko , Aoyagi Chikao , Matsuzaki Hiroshi , Irie Shinichiro , Nakamura Nobuyuki , Matsuoka Hirofumi 
Published: January 2021

AbstractA nerve‐sparing procedure during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy has been considered one of the most important techniques for preserving postoperative genitourinary function. The reason is that adequate nerve‐sparing procedures could preserve both erectile function and lower urinary tract function after surgery. When a nerve‐sparing procedure is carried out, the cavernous nerves themselves cannot be visualized, despite the magnified viewing field during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy. Thus, nerve‐sparing procedures have been considered challenging operations, even now. However, because not all surgeons have carried out a sufficient number of nerve‐sparing procedures, the development of new nerve‐sparing procedures or new methods for mapping the cavernous nerves is required. Recently, various new operative techniques, for example, Retzius‐sparing robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy, transvesical robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy and retrograde release of neurovascular bundle technique during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy, have been developed. In addition, new surgical devices, for example, biological/bioengineering solutions for cavernous nerve protection and devices for identifying the cavernous nerves during radical prostatectomy, have developed to preserve the cavernous nerves. In contrast, limitations or problems in preserving cavernous nerves and postoperative erectile function have become apparent. In particular, the recovery rate of erectile function, the positive surgical margin rate at the site of nerve‐sparing and the indications for nerve sparing have become obvious with the accumulation of much evidence. Furthermore, predictive factors for postoperative erectile function after nerve‐sparing procedures have also been clarified. In this article, the importance of a comprehensive approach for early recovery of erectile function in the robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy era is discussed.
Ubiquitin E3 ligase MID1 inhibits the innate immune response by ubiquitinating IRF3
Authors: Chen Xiangjie , Xu Ying , Tu Wenhui , Huang Fan , Zuo Yibo , Zhang Hong‐Guang , Jin Lincong , Feng Qian , Ren Tengfei , He Jiuyi , Miao Ying , Yuan Yukang , Zhao Qian , Liu Jiapeng , Zhang Renxia , Zhu Li , Qian Feng , Zhu Chuanwu , Zheng Hui , Wang Jun 
Published: January 2021

SummaryInterferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) is a critical transcription factor for inducing production of type I interferons (IFN‐I) and regulating host antiviral response. Although IRF3 activation during viral infection has been extensively studied, the inhibitory regulation of IRF3 remains largely unexplored. Here, we revealed that Midline‐1 (MID1) is a ubiquitin E3 ligase of IRF3 that plays essential roles in regulating the production of IFN‐I. We found that MID1 physically interacts with IRF3 and downregulates IRF3 protein levels. Next, we demonstrated that MID1 can induce K48‐linked polyubiquitination of IRF3, thus lowing the protein stability of IRF3. Our further studies identified Lys313 as a major ubiquitin acceptor lysine of IRF3 induced by MID1. Finally, MID1‐mediated ubiquitination and degradation of IRF3 restrict IFN‐I production and cellular antiviral response. This study uncovers a role of MID1 in regulating innate antiviral immunity and may provide a potential target for enhancing host antiviral activity.
Women entrepreneurs' digital social innovation: Linking gender, entrepreneurship, social innovation and information systems
Authors: Suseno Yuliani , Abbott Ling 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThis article responds to increasing discourses on digital social innovation (DSI) from the perspectives of women entrepreneurs. Using the individual differences theory of gender and information technology (IDTGIT), this research explores how digital technology is used by women entrepreneurs to create opportunities in response to the challenges associated with individual identity, individual influences, social influences and structural influences. We also extend the IDTGIT by exploring how technology is used by women entrepreneurs in their DSI ventures and how technology facilitates the social impact of such ventures. This paper draws on a qualitative study using interviews with 17 women entrepreneurs in Australia, and our findings indicate that individual identity, individual influences and social and structural influences play a significant role in inhibiting women entrepreneurs' business ventures but technology helps to create opportunities for women entrepreneurs to address these factors. We also found that technology plays a role in helping women entrepreneurs to pursue social innovation in two different ways: through social innovation that is embodied by technology and social innovation that is enabled by technology. Our findings further indicate the social impact of DSI in the areas of education, employment, environment and climate, community development and progress and healthcare. The theoretical and practical implications of DSI for women entrepreneurs are provided.
Reaction behaviors and specific exposed crystal planes manipulation mechanism of TiC nanoparticles
Authors: Dong Bai‐Xin , Ma Xu‐Dong , Liu Tian‐Shu , Li Qiang , Yang Hong‐Yu , Shu Shi‐Li , Zhang Bing‐Qi , Qiu Feng , Jiang Qi‐Chuan 
Published: January 2021

AbstractTitanium carbide (TiC) nanoparticles with well‐designed exposed crystal planes perform intriguing prospects for functional and engineering applications. In this study, a simple and controllable in situ synthesis strategy was proposed for the synthesis of TiC nanoparticles with specific morphology. Reaction behaviors suggested that most of TiC nanoparticles were formed by an instantaneous reaction between Al3Ti and Al4C3 in the Al‐rich melt and the resultant morphology was controlled by the discrepant growing rates of (100) and (111) crystal planes. In addition, a growth morphology control model was presented for the prediction and manipulation of the morphology of TiC nanoparticles by the doping of different alloying elements Me (Me = Cu, Mg, Mn, Zn, and Si). According to the morphological observations and density functional theory analyses including the interface energy, charge density differences, and orbital hybridization: Cu, Mg, and Zn atoms could stabilize the Al/TiC(111) interface, whereas Mn and Si atoms promoted the rapid growing and disappearance of the TiC(111) planes in the Al melt. This work provides a feasible way to intelligently design and manipulate TiC nanoparticles with desirable exposed crystal planes, and exhibits a promising prospect for personalized applications.
Fine TiC dispersed Al2O3 composites fabricated via in situ reaction synthesis and conventional process
Authors: Shi Shengfang , Cho Sunghun , Goto Tomoyo , Sekino Tohru 
Published: January 2021

AbstractTo further improve the mechanical performance and reduce the percolation threshold by controlling microstructures, Al2O3‐TiC composites containing 0‐20 vol% TiC were fabricated via in situ reaction synthesis. Graphite (ATC) and carbon nanotubes (ATCT) were used as carbon sources. The composites were also fabricated via a conventional process using a TiC starting powder (AT). X‐ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy observation results indicated successful fabrication of the composites with various microstructures. TiC particles in ATCT were completely dispersed at grain boundaries, whereas in ATC and AT, these particles were either intragranular or intergranular dispersed. The composites could be listed as follows, ATCT > ATC > AT, that is, in descending order of the reinforcing flexural strength and fracture toughness. The nanoindentation measurement indicated the optimum hardening effect of ATCT. The ATCT composite also exhibited the highest fracture toughness, which was 49% higher than that of the monolithic Al2O3. Crack deflection was considered as the main toughening mechanism while crack bridging behavior also occurred in ATCT. For a given TiC content, ATCT exhibited the lowest electrical resistivity, owing mainly to the complete grain‐boundary dispersion of the relatively large TiC particles. The similarity of the Al2O3 grain size and TiC particle size of ATCT contributed to the lowest percolation threshold achieved (11.2%), which (to date) is the lowest value that has been reported for the Al2O3‐TiC system.
Characteristics of pedagogical change in integrating digital collaborative learning and their sustainability in a school culture: e‐CSAMR framework
Authors: Shamir‐Inbal Tamar , Blau Ina 
Published: January 2021

AbstractCollaborative learning is perceived as an important component of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) integration in schools. The purpose of this study was to examine an initiative of the Ministry of Education that promoted intra‐school and inter‐school digital collaborative learning projects. The participants were 159 district ICT leaders, who designed 37 digital collaborative projects containing 73 learning activities to promote inter‐school student interactions. The study was conducted within the qualitative research paradigm through analysis of digital collaborative learning activities. Additionally, the participants were required to share their experiences regarding digital collaboration through an open‐ended online questionnaire. The thematic analysis revealed all four levels of the SAMR model, rating pedagogical changes during technological integration; the most common were the model's two middle levels: Augmentation and Modification. Moreover, we explored the degree of teamwork (information sharing, cooperation, or collaboration), complexity of collaboration (intra‐school vs. inter‐school) and sustainability of collaborative learning within the school culture. Most of the activities reflected the cooperation level of teamwork, while in the highest level—collaboration was less common. Surprisingly, complexity of collaboration and its sustainability in school culture were negatively interconnected. Regarding the extent of collaboration, some activities were categorized as “Islands of innovation,” the majority were comprehensive and conducted on the organizational level, while only few involved the wider community‐parents or other stakeholders. Based on the bottom‐up analysis of pedagogical changes in digital collaboration activities, we suggested a comprehensive e‐CSAMR framework. The implications for educational theory and practice are discussed.