bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of C6+ laser ion source and RFQ linac for carbon ion radiotherapy
Authors: Sako T. , Yamaguchi A. , Sato K. , Goto A. , Iwai T. , Nayuki T. , Nemoto K. , Kayama T. , Takeuchi T.
Published: November 2015

A prototype C6+ injector using a laser ion source has been developed for a compact synchrotron dedicated to carbon ion radiotherapy. The injector consists of a laser ion source and a 4-vane radio-frequency quadrupole (RFQ) linac. Ion beams are extracted from plasma and directly injected into the RFQ. A solenoid guides the low-energy beams into the RFQ. The RFQ is designed to accelerate high-intensity pulsed beams. A structure of monolithic vanes and cavities is adopted to reduce its power consumption. In beam acceleration tests, a solenoidal magnetic field set between the laser ion source and the RFQ helped increase both the peak currents before and after the RFQ by a factor of 4.
Oxide driven strength evolution of silicon surfaces
Authors: Grutzik Scott J. , Milosevic Erik , Boyce Brad L. , Zehnder Alan T.
Published: November 2015

Previous experiments have shown a link between oxidation and strength changes in single crystal silicon nanostructures but provided no clues as to the mechanisms leading to this relationship. Using atomic force microscope-based fracture strength experiments, molecular dynamics modeling, and measurement of oxide development with angle resolved x-ray spectroscopy we study the evolution of strength of silicon (111) surfaces as they oxidize and with fully developed oxide layers. We find that strength drops with partial oxidation but recovers when a fully developed oxide is formed and that surfaces intentionally oxidized from the start maintain their high initial strengths. MD simulations show that strength decreases with the height of atomic layer steps on the surface. These results are corroborated by a completely separate line of testing using micro-scale, polysilicon devices, and the slack chain method in which strength recovers over a long period of exposure to the atmosphere. Combining our results with insights from prior experiments we conclude that previously described strength decrease is a result of oxidation induced roughening of an initially flat silicon (1 1 1) surface and that this effect is transient, a result consistent with the observation that surfaces flatten upon full oxidation.
Facile stamp patterning method for superhydrophilic/superhydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Lyu Sungnam , Hwang Woonbong
Published: November 2015

Patterning techniques are essential to many research fields such as chemistry, biology, medicine, and micro-electromechanical systems. In this letter, we report a simple, fast, and low-cost superhydrophobic patterning method using a superhydrophilic template. The technique is based on the contact stamping of the surface during hydrophobic dip coating. Surface characteristics were measured using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopic analysis. The results showed that the hydrophilic template, which was contacted with the stamp, was not affected by the hydrophobic solution. The resolution study was conducted using a stripe shaped stamp. The patterned line was linearly proportional to the width of the stamp line with a constant narrowing effect. A surface with regions of four different types of wetting was fabricated to demonstrate the patterning performance.
Directional multimode coupler for planar magnonics: Side-coupled magnetic stripes
Authors: Sadovnikov A. V. , Beginin E. N. , Sheshukova S. E. , Romanenko D. V. , Sharaevskii Yu. P. , Nikitov S. A.
Published: November 2015

We experimentally demonstrate spin waves coupling in two laterally adjacent magnetic stripes. By the means of Brillouin light scattering spectroscopy, we show that the coupling efficiency depends both on the magnonic waveguides' geometry and the characteristics of spin-wave modes. In particular, the lateral confinement of coupled yttrium-iron-garnet stripes enables the possibility of control over the spin-wave propagation characteristics. Numerical simulations (in time domain and frequency domain) reveal the nature of intermodal coupling between two magnonic stripes. The proposed topology of multimode magnonic coupler can be utilized as a building block for fabrication of integrated parallel functional and logic devices such as the frequency selective directional coupler or tunable splitter, enabling a number of potential applications for planar magnonics.
Polarity Effects of Propylene Carbonate on Breakdown Strength in Microsecond Range
Authors: Wang Zhen , Zhang Zi-cheng , Zhang Jian-de
Published: November 2015

We investigate the polarity effects of the propylene carbonate on the breakdown voltage using the needle-plate electrodes with gaps of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mm. The devices used in this study involve a compact capacitive-energy-storage pulse power source with charging time varying from 5 ms to 20 ms and a test cell with the needle-plate electrodes. The breakdown voltage is recorded by a digital oscilloscope for each gap. The results of these three groups indicate that the positive breakdown voltage is higher than the negative one and the breakdown voltage of the PC increases with the ascending electrode gap. In addition, a simulation is conducted to support this experiment. Some explanations about the polarity effect of the PC are also given.
First-Principles Study on Electronic and Optical Properties of Graphene-Like Boron Phosphide Sheets
Authors: Wang Shao-feng , Wu Xiao-jun
Published: November 2015

Two-dimensional semiconducting materials with moderate band gap and high carrier mobility have a wide range of applications for electronics and optoelectronics in nanoscale. On the basis of first-principles calculations, we perform a comprehensive study on the electronics and optical properties of graphene-like boron phosphide (BP) sheets. The global structure search and first-principles based molecular dynamic simulation indicate that two-dimensional BP sheet has a graphene-like global minimum structure with high stability. BP monolayer is semiconductor with a direct band gap of 1.37 eV, which reduces with the number of layers. Moreover, the band gaps of BP sheets are insensitive to the applied uniaxial strain. The calculated mobility of electrons in BP monolayer is as high as 106 cm2/(V·s). Lastly, the MoS2/BP van der Waals heterobilayers are investigated for photovoltaic applications, and their power conversion efficiencies are estimated to be in the range of 17.7%–19.7%. This study implies the potential applications of graphene-like BP sheets for electronic and optoelectronic devices in nanoscale.
The question of literary quality
Authors: Lauwers Jeroen , Deneire Tom , Eelbode David
Published: November 2015

This article explores the hermeneutic potential of mathematical game theory for the study of literary quality, thus advocating a rhetorical reconciliation between plain formalism and plain constructivism. If literary quality is constituted by mathematical parameters of literary quality, we should at least, conceptually, come to an agreement about how these parameters are interrelated, as this is necessary for a quantifiable methodology. The proposed method starts from Hotelling’s location game (but expands this to hyperspace) to advocate a feasible model for describing audience distribution in a calculable manner. Through the notion of the “middle position,” it is argued that the search for literary quality should try to find the right measure of a literary parameter in order to be successful. The article concludes with a survey of caveats and potential pitfalls, which should inspire a cautious, yet confident, application of the proposed methodology.
Exercise promotes IL‐6 release from legs in older men with minor response to unilateral immobilization
Authors: Reihmane Dace , Gram Martin , Vigelsø Andreas , Wulff Helge Jørn , Dela Flemming
Published: November 2015

Physical inactivity is a major contributor to low‐grade systemic inflammation. Most of the studies characterizing interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) release from exercising legs have been done in young, healthy men, but studies on inactivity in older people are lacking. The impact of 14 days of one‐leg immobilization (IM) on IL‐6 and TNF‐α release during exercise in comparison to the contralateral control (CON) leg was investigated. Fifteen healthy men (age 68.1 ± 1.1 year (mean ± SEM); BMI 27.0 ± 0.4 kg·m2; VO2max 33.3 ± 1.6 ml·kg‒1·min‒1) performed 45 min of two‐leg dynamic knee extensor exercise at 19.5 ± 0.9 W. Arterial and femoral venous blood samples from the CON and the IM legs were collected every 15 min during exercise, and thigh blood flow was measured with ultrasound Doppler. Arterial plasma IL‐6 concentration increased with exercise (rest vs. 45 min, main effect p < .05). IL‐6 release increased with exercise (rest vs. 30 min, main effect p < .05). Furthermore, IL‐6 release was borderline (main effect, p = .085, effect size 0.28) higher in the IM leg compared to the CON leg (288 (95% CI: 213–373) vs. 220 (95% CI: 152–299) pg·min‒1, respectively). There was no release of TNF‐α in either leg and arterial concentrations remained unchanged during exercise (p > .05). In conclusion, exercise induces more pronounced IL‐6 secretion in healthy older men. Two weeks of unilateral immobilization on the other hand had only a minor influence on IL‐6 release. Neither immobilization nor exercise had an effect on TNF‐α release across the working legs in older men.
Reflective practice as a determinant of performance outcomes in services
Authors: Saunila Minna , Ukko Juhani
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the outcomes of reflective practices in services. The paper contributes to the current understanding of the relationship between reflective practice and outcomes by presenting a description of the internal (i.e. what kind of reflection is required to attain the desired outcomes) and external (i.e. under what kind of circumstances does reflection result in the desired outcomes) factors of reflective practices.

Design/methodology/approach

– The results of this investigation are based on a mixed-method research approach that utilises both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods.

Findings

– According to the results, reflective practices are indeed connected to outcomes. Reflective practices foster better outcomes when they are more explicit and targeted through different organisational levels. The role of performance management and measurement is important in connecting the reflective practices with performance. Performance management must be considered as a communication and social system that allows the employees to discuss the learning and development process as a part of the results.

Practical implications

– As a practical contribution, the results of the research may help professionals begin to understand that leveraging reflective practices may aid an organisation in achieving its desired outcomes.

Originality/value

– Hitherto, studies that discuss the interphase of reflective practices and outcomes have mainly been theoretical considerations or surveys that lack an in-depth understanding of how the different methods operate in a real-life context. When focusing on the previous research, it is clear that in-depth empirical studies are needed to achieve a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and arrangements that connect reflective practice and outcomes. This research addresses this research gap by examining the outcomes of reflective practices in services.
Retail store influence on sustainable consumption behaviour
Authors: Lehner Matthias
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to contribute to the discussion about how retailers can more effectively promote sustainable food consumption in the retail store.

Design/methodology/approach

– Thirteen self-proclaimed sustainable consumers were observed and interviewed during their grocery shopping. Separate observations were conducted of the stores. Finally, consumers were asked to provide three weeks worth of grocery shopping receipts.

Findings

– Results show that the meaning of sustainable consumption varies among consumers. Observed consumer behaviour was mostly routinized, with little willingness to engage consciously with the choice situation. Mixed messages in the store cause confusion, uncertainty and frustration. Only for a minority of decisions, consumers showed a high level of decision-making involvement. Then, consumers were willing to engage with the retailer and accept trade-offs. The retail store should better account for consumption routines in sustainable consumption behaviour and open up to interaction with sustainably minded consumers where necessary.

Research limitations/implications

– The results are specific for urban areas with high concern for sustainability. Further research should focus on areas of low concern for sustainability and the impact of the store environment on such consumers.

Practical implications

– Retailers do not sufficiently take into account the contextual nature of sustainable consumption. Retailers would be well-advised to account for the habitual nature of grocery shopping and for contextually defined understanding of sustainable consumption in their efforts to promote sustainable consumption.

Originality/value

– This study gives new insights into the much debated “attitude-behaviour gap” in sustainable consumption and how retailers can more effectively encourage sustainable consumption behaviour in the retail store.
A method engineering perspective for service-oriented system engineering
Authors: Gherib Boutheina , Baghdadi Youcef , Kraiem Naoufel
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to consider the method engineering perspective for service-oriented system engineering (SOSE). A number of SOSE methods have been proposed in both academia and industry. Given this, many intuitive, common questions arise. To answer these questions, many comparison frameworks have been developed. Each of which has considered certain methodological perspectives. However, less attention has been given to the method engineering (ME) perspective. The authors argue that this perspective would answer the question “what ME to apply in order to produce SOSE methods that themselves produce quality services at different levels of abstraction and SBAs”. This research question is further decomposed into other questions; the main one is “whether the existing ME do apply to service orientation”. Answering such a question would lead to either developing SOSE methods by using the existing ME or developing a new ME or framework for the specifics of SOSE.

Design/methodology/approach

– This work first provides a literature review on ME approaches and techniques; then, it compares a sample of existing SOSE methods with respect to their ME within a comparison framework that comprises a set of relevant properties of a solution that would be provided by an SOSE method, namely, service-oriented architecture (SOA) adoption, quality of services and ME; and finally, it discusses the applicability of the existing ME to SOSE.

Findings

– Strengths and weaknesses of the existing methods with respect to the aforementioned criteria, in addition to SOSE methodology open issues, were identified. The comparison has shown that while the existing SOSE methods have proved their success in a specific task, they still present some weaknesses. Therefore, it is better to benefit from the advantages of the existing ME techniques, notable method fragments, even if they need some alteration.

Research limitations/implications

– While this work has many open issues related to SOSE methods with respect to ME, it could be further developed in many directions by exploring the open issues. For instance, the generation of a new ME technique and application of this new ME technique to the existing SOSE methods to see to what extent the existing methods may be situational.

Practical implications

– This work has practical implications, as it provides a better understanding of different views of SOSE methods, and assists the method engineers in deciding which ME technique is most suitable to their situation.

Social implications

– The produced artifact provides a research roadmap toward SOSE ME.

Originality/value

– None of the existing comparison frameworks for SOSE methods has considered the criteria such as SOA adoption and ME techniques. Indeed, ME techniques and approaches would allow better reuse of the existing proven fragments of methods.
Kamachiy – Mayistru: adaptive module to support teaching to people with learning difficulties
Authors: Lancheros-Cuesta Diana , Carrillo-Ramos Angela , Pavlich-Mariscal Jaime A.
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose Kamachiy-Mayistru (KM), an adaptive module to support teaching to people with learning difficulties. In Colombia, learning disabilities and difficulties are frequent in the integration classroom. Proper learning can be achieved as long as teaching strategies and didactic tools are the most adequate to the specific student characteristics and follow the suggestions given by experts for each learning difficulty. This module assists the teacher to prepare a course taking into account the disability profile, the student profile and pedagogical model suggestions. In this way, the student can learn utilizing the format and didactic tools more appropriate to their specific necessities.

Design/methodology/approach

– The design and implementation of the KM comprises the following phases: identify the most important student, teacher, difficulties and course parameters to take into account in the adaptation process; design the data model that supports activity adaptation, based on student characteristics and difficulties; implement the platform; and validate the approach through a case study of teachers and their students with difficulties.

Findings

– The application of KM in the case study indicated the effectiveness of KM to assist teachers in organizing course activities for students with and without disabilities or difficulties.

Research limitations/implications

– KM addresses specific student difficulties: attention, memory and languages. KM does not address severe cognitive disabilities. Regarding the validation, it is recommended to pursue new case studies to further demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach in a broader population.

Practical implications

– The main approach in KM is to suggest activities or pedagogical strategies to teachers to best support learning in students with difficulties or disabilities. The core of KM is an algorithm, called “Adapt Course”, that takes as input student and disability profiles, the course contents and the pedagogical model and creates course structures that are specially tailored to each student.

Social implications

– This model recommends teachers different activities, based on the specific student difficulties, to create personalized courses. It is able to address specific educational issues that are associated with learning difficulties and disabilities, such as educational integration, through content organization and personalized information display, which are based on the inherent characteristics of each student in the classroom.

Originality/value

– It is based on a conceptual model that provides the essential architecture to design and implement virtual learning environments for students with learning difficulties or disabilities.
Finding target and constraint concepts for XML query construction
Authors: Gan Keng Hoon , Phang Keat Keong
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to focus on automatic selection of two important structural concepts required in an XML query, namely, target and constraint concepts, when given a keywords query. Due to the diversities of concepts used in XML resources, it is not easy to select a correct concept when constructing an XML query.

Design/methodology/approach

– In this paper, a Context-based Term Weighting model that performs term weighting based on part of documents. Each part represents a specific context, thus offering better capturing of concept and term relationship. For query time analysis, a Query Context Graph and two algorithms, namely, Select Target and Constraint (QC) and Select Target and Constraint (QCAS) are proposed to find the concepts for constructing XML query.

Findings

– Evaluations were performed using structured document for conference domain. For constraint concept selection, the approach CTX+TW achieved better result than its baseline, NCTX, when search term has ambiguous meanings by using context-based scoring for the concepts. CTX+TW also shows its stability on various scoring models like BM25, TFIEF and LM. For target concept selection, CTX+TW outperforms the standard baseline, SLCA, whereas it also records higher coverage than FCA, when structural keywords are used in query.

Originality/value

– The idea behind this approach is to capture the concepts required for term interpretation based on parts of the collections rather than the entire collection. This allows better selection of concepts, especially when a structured XML document consists many different types of information.
Recognising changes in visual representation of clothing in CCTV imaging
Authors: Denny Kathryn Anne
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– Closed circuit television (CCTV) imaging is an increasingly used technology and it is now common place for law enforcement to access CCTV footage as an investigative tool to assist in the nomination of a person of interest, or to aid in the prosecution of an offender. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the role of imaging practitioners in the analysis and interpretation of CCTV images within a law enforcement context. It explores and addresses the limitations of CCTV imaging in evidence with a focus on the interpretation of changes in the visual representation of clothing items.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper demonstrates the variations observed in four dark toned garments imaged using one CCTV camera with two different recording settings – visible light and near infrared. The device used was installed and operated in a manner comparable to that used in the public domain, the resulting images indicative of those experienced in casework.

Findings

– The results display a noticeable change to the tonality of each clothing item between the varied recording conditions. These inconsistencies highlight the limitations of layperson analysis and identify the importance of the inclusion of imaging practitioners when interpreting and analysing such images as evidence.

Originality/value

– With an abundance of images in the society, layperson interpretation has become common place. Recognising the value of trained imaging practitioners who can assist law enforcement in analysis and interpretation is paramount to ensuring CCTV images as evidence are used appropriately.
How to make the whole organization Agile
Authors: Denning Stephen
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– The author has traveled to leading organizations that have developed and implemented a set of goals, practices and values that were better suited to the emerging marketplace of the 21st Century.

Design/methodology/approach

– He observed that the workplaces they create are different. They are highly interactive and can mobilize vast ecosystems of partners and customers, enabling them to achieve massive scale without sclerosis.

Findings

– His conclusion: The managers are not just tinkering with obsolete practices that are increasingly irrelevant and ineffective. These organizations have been creating something fundamentally different: a culture of agility.

Research limitations/implications

– Research involves preliminary field observations.

Practical implications

– He describes in detail how established organizations can make the transition to an Agile process and culture.

Originality/value

– This article offers step-by-step advice and a case study on how to become a truly Agile company.
Visual perceptions of snack packages among preschool children
Authors: Nelson Michelle R. , Duff Brittany R.L. , Ahn Regina
Published: November 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to examine the perceptions of the visual packaging of snacks and nutrition knowledge among preschool children. Packages serve as persuasive media at the point of purchase.

Design/methodology/approach

– In this paper 13 interviews with four-year-olds were conducted. Children sorted seven snacks that implied fruit into categories based on perceptions of fun, taste, parent’s choice and “nutrition”. Children also drew trees with food that would make them healthy or not healthy.

Findings

– Children attended to the package elements more than the product. All children selected the character fruit snack as their preferred choice; however, perceptions for fun and taste varied among snacks. Perceptions of healthiness showed evidence of heuristics (e.g. sugar = bad; fruit = good). Some children were able to understand that their parents’ choices may be different from their own.

Research limitations/implications

– Because of the small sample size, it is not possible to generalize results to all children. Children seemed to understand that the character may not convey “healthy” or “taste”, but they still chose the snack with a character.

Practical implications

– Children as young as four can understand nutrition heuristics and may/may not use those heuristics in product preferences.

Social implications

– Children may be able to reason about their own preferences and others’ preferences at a preoperational stage of development.

Originality/value

– Previous research indicates that older children are attracted by characters. The findings show that younger children also prefer characters but may be capable of disentangling the various associations of “characters”.
Climate Finance in and between Developing Countries: An Emerging Opportunity to Build On
Authors: Ha Sangjung , Hale Thomas , Ogden Peter
Published: November 2015

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) negotiations are evolving to reflect changes in national and global economic circumstances. However, this shift has been far smaller in the critical issue of climate finance, which remains too mired in an increasingly antiquated North–South, developed–developing country dichotomy. This inertia poses a serious threat to our ability to mobilize the finance required to meet the climate challenge, and could hamstring the new climate agreement countries are seeking. However, an important new trend can help move this discussion forward: the rise of climate finance within and among developing countries. Far from diminishing the need for developed countries to increase their support for mitigation and adaptation in developing countries, so‐called ‘South‐South Climate Finance’ (SSCF) can help unlock much needed additional resources for the climate challenge. This article provides an initial mapping of SSCF and argues that: (1) the emergence of SSCF offers countries an opportunity to mobilize additional climate finance, including through multilateral development banks (MDBs); and (2) parties to the UNFCCC should track and foster the role of SSCF so as to more effectively align it with ‘traditional’ climate finance that flows from developed to developing countries.
IVIG therapy in pemphigus vulgaris has corticosteroid‐sparing and immunomodulatory effects
Authors: Svecova Danka
Published: November 2015

Background

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a biological agent composed of polyclonal antibodies prepared from a large cohort of human plasma pools. IVIG is increasingly used for the treatment of various antibody‐mediated diseases, including pemphigus vulgaris (PV).

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the benefit and safety profiles of high dose IVIG therapy in PV patients determined by clinical remission, corticosteroid‐sparing and immunomodulatory effects, and adverse events at 12 months' follow up.

Methods

Ten PV patients underwent 3–8 monthly cycles of IVIG therapy at a dose of 2 g/kg per cycle. The pemphigus disease area index (PDAI) score, direct immunofluorescence (DIF), indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), and corticosteroid dosage were evaluated before IVIG therapy, after each cycle, and at 6 and 12 months' follow up.

Results

The baseline PDAI score was 75.70 ± 21.0 and baseline prednisone dosage was 201.60 ± 71.7 mg/day. The PDAI score reduction of 98% was achieved at 12 months' follow up and a corticosteroid dose reduction of 90% corresponded to clinical improvement. The decrease in both values was statistically significant (P = 0.002, respectively). At 12 months' follow up, seven patients were shown to be negative on IIF, of whom three proved to be negative on DIF. Adverse events were mild and transient and did not require the cessation of IVIG therapy.

Conclusion

IVIG induced long‐term clinical remission, while displaying a corticocorticosteroid‐sparing effect and evoking a long‐standing immunomodulatory effect in PV patients. The safety profile of IVIG therapy was assessed as good.
Increased Expression of Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 Reduces Renal Cell Apoptosis During Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury After Hypothermic Machine Perfusion
Authors: Zhong Zibiao , Hu Qianchao , Fu Zhen , Wang Ren , Xiong Yan , Zhang Yang , Liu Zhongzhong , Wang Yanfeng , Ye Qifa
Published: November 2015

Hypothermic machine perfusion (MP) can reduce graft's injury after kidney transplantation; however, the mechanism has not been elucidated. In the past decade, many studies showed that aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is a protease which can inhibit cell apoptosis. Therefore, this study aims to explore whether ALDH2 takes part in reducing organ damage after MP. Eighteen healthy male New Zealand rabbits (12 weeks old, weight 3.0 ± 0.3 kg) were randomly divided into three groups: normal group, MP group, and cold storage (CS) group (n = 6). The left kidney of rabbits underwent warm ischemia for 35 min through clamping the left renal pedicle and then reperfusion for 1 h. Left kidneys were preserved by MP or CS (4°C for 4 h) in vivo followed by the right nephrectomy and 24‐h reperfusion, and then the specimens and blood were collected. Finally, concentration of urine creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and 4‐HNE were tested. Renal apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining, and the expression of ALDH2, cleaved‐caspase 3, bcl‐2/ bax, MAPK in renal tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry or Western blot; 24 h after surgery, the concentration of Cr in MP group was 355 ± 71μmol/L, in CS group was 511 ± 44 μmol/L (P < 0.05), while the BUN was 15.02 ± 2.34 mmol/L in MP group, 22.64 ± 3.58 mmol/L in CS group (P < 0.05). The rate of apoptosis and expression of cleaved caspase‐3, p‐P38, p‐ERK, and p‐JNK in MP group was significantly lower than that in CS group (P < 0.05), while expression of ALDH2 and bcl‐2/bax in MP group was significantly higher than that in CS group (P < 0.05); expression of cleaved caspase‐3 in both MP and CS group significantly increased as compared with that in normal group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, increased expression of ALDH2 can reduce the renal cell apoptosis through inhibiting MAPK pathway during ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) after hypothermic MP.
Late Antique Glass Vessels and Production Indicators from the Town of Herdonia (Foggia, Italy): New Data on Cao‐Rich/Weak HIMT Glass
Authors: Gliozzo E. , Turchiano M. , Giannetti F. , Santagostino Barbone A.
Published: November 2015

In the framework of the archaeometric research on Apulian Late Antique glass, a collection of 24 glass vessels (third to seventh centuries ad) and production indicators found at Herdonia (Foggia, Italy) was examined, by means of SEM–EDS, EMPA, ICP–MS and LA–ICP–MS. A fragment of crucible was further investigated by SEM–EDS and EMPA. The results obtained were discussed together with another glass collection from Herdonia previously investigated. The full set of 48 samples was made of siliceous sands mixed with plant ashes (two samples: a dark green slab and a colourless beaker/lamp) or natron (all the other 46 samples). The latter were assigned to the following compositional groups: HIMT, Levantine 1, RNCBGY1, RNCBGY2, RC/LAC‐Sb, intermediate HIMT/RNCBGY1, intermediate RNCBGY1/HIMT, intermediate Levantine/RNCBGY2 and two other groups, the CaO‐rich HIMT and the CaO‐rich/Na2O poor HIMT, which showed a prevailing Adriatic distribution and a close similarity to the weak HIMT glass group. Most Herdonia samples were similar to the HIMT productions, and thus of likely Egyptian origin, while a smaller number of samples referred to the Levantine productions.
Dietary conjugated linoleic acids increase intramuscular fat deposition and decrease subcutaneous fat deposition in Yellow Breed × Simmental cattle
Authors: Zhang Haibo , Dong Xianwen , Wang Zhisheng , Zhou Aiming , Peng Quanhui , Zou Huawei , Xue Bai , Wang Lizhi
Published: November 2015

This study was conducted to estimate the effect of dietary conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) on intramuscular and subcutaneous fat deposition in Yellow Breed × Simmental cattle. The experiment was conducted for 60 days. The results showed that the average backfat thickness, (testicles + kidney + pelvic) fat percentage and subcutaneous fat percentage in dietary CLA were significantly lower than in the control group, while intramuscular the fat percentage was significantly higher. Compared to the control group, the Longissimus muscle enzyme activities of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), fatty acid synthase (FAS) and acetyl‐coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC) in dietary CLA and the subcutaneous fat enzyme activities of LPL, hormone‐sensitive lipase (HSL) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase‐1 (CPT‐1) were significantly increased. Similarly, compared to the control group, the Longissimus muscle sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP‐1), FAS, stearoyl‐coenzyme A desaturase (SCD), ACC, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ), heart fatty‐acid binding protein (H‐FABP) and LPL gene expression in dietary CLA were significant increased, as were the subcutaneous fat of PPARγ, H‐FABP, LPL, CPT‐1 and HSL in dietary CLA. These results indicated that dietary CLA increases IMF deposition mainly by the up‐regulation of lipogenic gene expression, while decreasing subcutaneous fat deposition mainly by the up‐regulation of lipolytic gene expression.
Effects of blend of canola oil and palm oil on nutrient intake and digestibility, growth performance, rumen fermentation and fatty acids in goats
Authors: Adeyemi Kazeem Dauda , Sazili Awis Qurni , Ebrahimi Mahdi , Samsudin Anjas Asmara , Alimon Abd Rasak , Karim Roselina , Karsani Saiful Anuar , Sabow Azad Behnan
Published: November 2015

The study examined the effects of blend of 80% canola oil and 20% palm oil (BCPO) on nutrient intake and digestibility, growth performance, rumen fermentation and fatty acids (FA) in goats. Twenty‐four Boer bucks were randomly assigned to diets containing 0, 4 and 8% BCPO on a dry matter basis, fed for 100 days and slaughtered. Diet did not affect feed efficiency, growth performance, intake and digestibility of all nutrients except ether extract. Intakes and digestibilities of ether extract, unsaturated fatty acids (FA) and total FA were higher (P < 0.05) while digestibility of C18:0 was lower (P < 0.05) in oil‐fed goats than the control goats. Total volatile FA, acetate, butyrate, acetate/propionate ratio and methane decreased (P < 0.05) with increasing BCPO but propionate, NH3‐N and rumen pH did not differ between diets. Ruminal concentration of C18:0, n‐3 FA and total FA increased (P < 0.05) while C12:0, C14:0, C15:0 and n‐6 FA decreased with increasing BCPO. Analysis of the FA composition of Triceps brachii muscle showed that concentrations of C16:0, C14:0 and C18:2n‐6 were lower (P < 0.05) while C18:1n‐9, C18:3n‐3 and C20:5n‐3 were higher in oil‐fed goats compared with control goats. Dietary BCPO altered muscle lipids without having detrimental effects on nutrient intake and digestibility and growth performance in goats.
Alive SMC2: Bayesian Model Selection for Low-Count Time Series Models with Intractable Likelihoods
Authors: Drovandi Christopher C. , McCutchan Roy A.
Published: November 2015

In this article we present a new method for performing Bayesian parameter inference and model choice for low- count time series models with intractable likelihoods. The method involves incorporating an alive particle filter within a sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) algorithm to create a novel exact-approximate algorithm, which we refer to as alive SMC. The advantages of this approach over competing methods are that it is naturally adaptive, it does not involve between-model proposals required in reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo, and does not rely on potentially rough approximations. The algorithm is demonstrated on Markov process and integer autoregressive moving average models applied to real biological datasets of hospital-acquired pathogen incidence, animal health time series, and the cumulative number of prion disease cases in mule deer.
A comparison of arthroscopy to ultrasonography for identification of pathology of the equine stifle
Authors: Adrian A. M. , Barrett M. F. , Werpy N. M. , Kawcak C. E. , Chapman P. L. , Goodrich L. R.
Published: November 2015

Reasons for performing study

To evaluate and compare the diagnostic capability of arthroscopy and ultrasonography for the detection of pathological change in equine stifle joints. Although descriptions of the arthroscopic and ultrasonographic boundaries of the normal femorotibial joint exist, there are few examples in the literature comparing the pathological changes observed with each imaging modality.

Objectives

To evaluate and compare arthroscopic and ultrasonographic examinations for characterising pathological change in the stifle joint. To describe how the results of arthroscopic and ultrasonographic examinations may differ in characterising the severity of lesions and to evaluate which lesions are best assessed with each modality.

Study design

Retrospective review of ultrasonographic and arthroscopic examinations.

Methods

The structures of the stifle joint were evaluated and graded for pathological change by scoring arthroscopic and ultrasonographic examinations. The presence and severity of the lesions were then compared between each modality.

Results

Medial meniscal lesions were detected more often with ultrasonography than with arthroscopy. Conversely, arthroscopy was better for detection of cranial medial meniscotibial ligament (CrMMTL) tearing. Articular cartilage defects were best detected with arthroscopy and periarticular osteophytes of the medial femoral condyle with ultrasonography. Four cases had defects within one of the patellar ligaments, all of which were only characterised with ultrasonography.

Conclusions

Ultrasonography and arthroscopy should be combined to best evaluate pathology of the stifle, since each modality has its own limitations depending on the location and type of lesion.
Convergent elevation trends in canopy chemical traits of tropical forests
Authors: Asner Gregory P. , Martin Roberta E.
Published: November 2015

The functional biogeography of tropical forests is expressed in foliar chemicals that are key physiologically based predictors of plant adaptation to changing environmental conditions including climate. However, understanding the degree to which environmental filters sort the canopy chemical characteristics of forest canopies remains a challenge. Here, we report on the elevation and soil‐type dependence of forest canopy chemistry among 75 compositionally and environmentally distinct forests in nine regions, with a total of 7819 individual trees representing 3246 species collected, identified and assayed for foliar traits. We assessed whether there are consistent relationships between canopy chemical traits and both elevation and soil type, and evaluated the general role of phylogeny in mediating patterns of canopy traits within and across communities. Chemical trait variation and partitioning suggested a general model based on four interconnected findings. First, geographic variation at the soil‐Order level, expressing broad changes in fertility, underpins major shifts in foliar phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca). Second, elevation‐dependent shifts in average community leaf dry mass per area (LMA), chlorophyll, and carbon allocation (including nonstructural carbohydrates) are most strongly correlated with changes in foliar Ca. Third, chemical diversity within communities is driven by differences between species rather than by plasticity within species. Finally, elevation‐ and soil‐dependent changes in N, LMA and leaf carbon allocation are mediated by canopy compositional turnover, whereas foliar P and Ca are driven more by changes in site conditions than by phylogeny. Our findings have broad implications for understanding the global ecology of humid tropical forests, and their functional responses to changing climate.
Virtual geology special issue: developing training, teaching and research skillsets for geoscientists
Authors: Pringle Jamie K.
Published: November 2015

Current physical science students and researchers are becoming ever more diverse in their learning needs and styles, in their ways of learning and indeed their scientific backgrounds in the subjects that they study. Current schools, colleges and Higher Education students are increasingly ‘digital natives’, connected 24/7 through mobile devices, generally goal‐orientated and responding well to digitally‐based activities and tasks. Whilst the structured nature of classrooms, traditional lectures and laboratory practicals obviously still dominate geoscience teaching, and core outdoor field trips and independent mapping/research are of paramount importance, more innovative complementary learning, teaching and research technologies are being developed by a wide variety of computer software developers, practitioners and educationalists.
Asthma is a risk factor for new onset chronic migraine: Results from the American migraine prevalence and prevention study
Authors: Martin Vincent T. , Fanning Kristina M. , Serrano Daniel , Buse Dawn C. , Reed Michael L. , Lipton Richard B.
Published: November 2015

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that in persons with episodic migraine (EM), asthma is a risk factor for the onset of chronic migraine (CM).

Background

Migraine and asthma are comorbid chronic disorders with episodic attacks thought to involve inflammatory and neurological mechanisms. Herein, we assess the influence of asthma on the clinical course of EM.

Methods

To be eligible for this observational cohort study, AMPP Study participants had to meet criteria for EM in 2008, complete the validated six‐item asthma questionnaire from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) in 2008, and provide follow‐up data in 2009. Using the ECRHS, we defined asthma as a binary variable (present or absent) based on an empirical cut score and developed a Respiratory Symptom Severity Score (RSSS) based on the number of positive responses (no severity = 0 positive responses, low severity = 1‐2 positive responses, moderate severity = 3‐4 positive responses, high severity = 5‐6 positive responses). Chronic migraine was the primary outcome measure and was defined as those with ≥15 headache days per month on the 2009 AMPP Study survey. We used logistic regression in separate models to assess the influence of asthma as a binary variable (Model 1) and RSSS score categories (Model 2 using no respiratory symptoms as the reference) on CM onset after adjusting for sociodemographic factors, headache day frequency, migraine preventive medication use, and medication overuse.

Results

The eligible sample for this study included 4446 individuals with EM in 2008 of whom 17% had asthma. This group had a mean age of 50.4 and was 80.8% female. In 2009, new onset CM developed in 2.9% (131/4446) of the 2008 EM cohort, including 5.4% (40/746) of the asthma subgroup and 2.5% (91/3700) of the non‐asthma subgroup. In comparison to those without asthma, the adjusted odds for individuals with asthma and EM in 2008 to develop CM in 2009 were greater than two (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.1; 95% CI: 1.4‐3.1). Using the RSSS, the aOR for CM onset increased with the number of asthma symptoms, but only those in the high RSSS category showed a statistically significant increase in the odds of chronic migraine onset in comparison with the no RSSS reference group (aOR 3.3; 95% CI 1.7‐6.2).

Conclusions

Asthma is associated with an increased risk of new onset CM 1 year later among individuals with EM, with the highest risk being among those with the greatest number of respiratory symptoms. The exact mechanisms underlying this association are unknown, but could suggest mast cell degranulation, autonomic dysfunction, or shared genetic or environmental factors.
Influence of Cold Low Pressure Lamination Parameters on the Joining of Low Temperature Co‐Fired Ceramics Green Tapes and Sintered Alumina Substrates
Authors: Hambuch Michael , Hutzler Christoph , Gora Frieder , Wittmann Frieder , Beart Karin , Roosen Andreas
Published: November 2015

In this study, laminates consisting of sintered alumina substrates and green Low Temperature Co‐fired Ceramics (LTCC) tapes have been produced via Cold Low Pressure Lamination which is based on adhesive tapes for joining of layers at room temperature and pressures <5 MPa. The influences of lamination parameters such as temperature, pressure, and time on the quality of the green and sintered multilayer stack have been determined. If the bottom LTCC layer of an alumina–LTCC–LTCC laminate is metallized by screen printing defects such as crack formation can occur due to stress formation caused by constrained sintering. By adapting the lamination parameters, these stresses can be avoided. Another defect observed is cavities which form along the printed circuit lines. This type of defect is caused by the shrinkage of the circuit line width during firing; by reducing the height of the conductor line during screen printing, the cavity size can be reduced. In addition, different screen‐printed metallization layouts have been tested to determine the influence of line and spaces on the quality of sintered laminates.