bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemispheric Lateralization of Auditory Working Memory Regions During Stochastic Resonance: An fMRI Study
Authors: Othman Elza Azri , Yusoff Ahmad Nazlim , Mohamad Mazlyfarina , Abdul Manan Hanani , Abd Hamid Aini Ismafairus , Giampietro Vincent
Published: December 2019

Background

The auditory and prefrontal cortex supports auditory working memory processing. Many neuroimaging studies have shown hemispheric lateralization of auditory working memory brain regions in the presence of background noise, but few studies have focused on the lateralization of these regions during stochastic resonance.

Purpose

To investigate the effects of stochastic resonance on lateralization of auditory working memory regions, and also to examine the brain‐behavior relationship during stochastic resonance.

Study Type

Cross‐sectional.

Population/Subjects

Forty healthy young adults (18–24 years old).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T, T1, and T2*‐weighted imaging.

Assessment

The auditory working memory performance was assessed using a backward recall task. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to measure brain activity during task performance. Functional MRI data were analyzed using SPM12 and WFU PickAtlas.

Statistical Tests

One‐way independent analyses of variance (ANOVA) were conducted on the behavioral and functional data to examine the main effect of noise level on performance (P < 0.01) and brain activity (P < 0.0042). Hemispheric lateralization was determined by calculating the laterality index. A paired samples t‐test was performed to compare brain activity between hemispheres (P < 0.05). Pearson's correlation analysis and simple linear regression (P < 0.0042) were used to examine the relationship between brain activity and behavioral performance.

Results

Performance was significantly enhanced during the 50 and 55 dB sound pressure level (SPL) conditions via the stochastic resonance mechanism [F(1,195) = 49.17, P < 0.001]. Activity of the right superior frontal gyrus in the 55 dB SPL condition was significantly positively correlated with performance (R2 = 0.681, P < 0.001).

Data Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate changes in the lateralization of auditory working memory regions during stochastic resonance and suggest that the right superior frontal gyrus may be a strategic structure involved in the enhancement of auditory working memory performance.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 4

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1821–1828.
Fragmented QRS and subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in individuals with preserved ejection fraction: A speckle‐tracking echocardiographic study
Authors: Dehghani Mohammad Reza , Rostamzadeh Alireza , Abbasnezhad Ali , Shariati Akram , Nejatisafa Saeid , Rezaei Yousef
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Fragmented QRS (fQRS) complex on routine 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) predicts adverse outcomes in patients with cardiovascular diseases. In addition, it has been found to be associated with subclinical myocardial dysfunction in chronic diseases. We sought to investigate the relationship between the presence of fQRS with the myocardial functions in individuals free from known systemic cardiovascular diseases.

Methods

In a case‐control study, we evaluated normal individuals from March 2017 to February 2018. All participants underwent a 2‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiographic examination using tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and speckle‐tracking echocardiography. In addition, all participants were examined using a 12‐lead surface ECG, and patients with fQRS and a group of age‐ and sex‐matched controls without fQRS were enrolled in our study.

Results

The patients' mean age was 40.3 ± 10.7 and 35.4 ± 11.2 years in fQRS‐positive and fQRS‐negative groups, respectively (P = .110). Patients with fQRS had significantly lower values of apical left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV GLS) in 2‐chamber (16.9 ± 2.5 vs. 20.5 ± 3.3, P < .001), 4‐chamber (16.9 ± 3.4 vs. 20.1 ± 3, P = .001), LAX views (17.7 ± 2.8 vs. 20.8 ± 3.5, P = .001), and averaged LV GLS (17 ± 2.6 vs. 20.4 ± 2.7, P < .001) values compared to patients without fQRS. In a multivariate analysis, averaged LV GLS and smoking history were independent predictors for positive fQRS.

Conclusion

The presence of fQRS on 12‐lead ECG in healthy population was associated with lower values of LV GLS compared to normal individuals without fQRS.
In Vitro‐Induced High Sugar Environments Deteriorate Human Cortical Bone Elastic Modulus and Fracture Toughness
Authors: Merlo Kelly , Aaronson Jacob , Vaidya Rachana , Rezaee Taraneh , Chalivendra Vijaya , Karim Lamya
Published: December 2019

Advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs) have been suggested to contribute to bone fragility in type 2 diabetes (T2D). AGEs can be induced through in vitro sugar incubations but there is limited data on the effect of total fluorescent AGEs on mechanical properties of human cortical bone, which may have altered characteristics in T2D. Thus, to examine the effect of AGEs on bone directly in T2D patients with uncontrolled sugar levels, it is essential to first understand the fundamental mechanisms by studying the effects of controlled in vitro‐induced AGEs on cortical bone mechanical behavior. Here, human cortical bone specimens from female cadaveric tibias (ages 57–87) were incubated in an in vitro 0.6 M ribose or vehicle solution (n = 20/group) for 10 days at 37°C, their mechanical properties were assessed by microindentation and fracture toughness tests, and induced AGE levels were quantified through a fluorometric assay. Results indicated that ribose‐incubated bone had significantly more AGEs (+81%, p ≤ 0.005), lower elastic modulus assessed by traditional microindentation, and lower fracture toughness compared with vehicle controls. Furthermore, based on pooled data, increased AGEs were significantly correlated with deteriorated mechanical properties. The findings presented here show that the accumulation of AGEs allows for lower stiffness and increased ability to initiate a crack in human cortical bone. Statement of clinical significance: High sugar levels as in T2D results in deteriorated bone quality via AGE accumulation with a consequent weakening in bone's mechanical integrity. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:972‐983, 2020
Plexciton for surface enhanced Raman scattering and emission
Authors: Feng Yanting , Gao Man , Wang Yu , Meng Lingyan , Sun Mengtao
Published: December 2019

Plexcitons are polaritonic modes that result from coherently coupled plasmons and excitons. Far‐ and near‐field properties of Ag/semiconductor core–shell nanoparticles on silica‐coated silver substrate were theoretically studied, using finite‐difference time‐domain method. Our calculations suggested that titanium dioxide (TiO2) would be a better coating material, useful for the design of high‐sensitive surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate. The calculated Raman enhancement factor could be turned to as high as 4.0 × 1010 under the 633‐nm laser excitation. Surface plasmon‐coupled emission of SERS reveals an optimal collection angle of 5°, which shows a huge back scattering of the studied system. Our theoretical results could be used as a reference for the experimental design of semiconductor‐based SERS substrate with high efficiency.
Injection Molded Strong Polypropylene Composite Foam Reinforced with Rubber and Talc
Authors: Zhao Jinchuan , Zhao Qingliang , Wang Guilong , Wang Chongda , Park Chul B.
Published: December 2019

Lightweight plastic foams are of great significance for saving resources and reducing energy consumption. Foam injection molding (FIM) shows a promising future to provide lightweight and shape‐complex plastic components. However, it is still challenging to produce lightweight and strong polypropylene (PP) foams by FIM due to PP's poor foaming ability. Herein, rubber and talc are employed to improve PP's foaming ability, and hence to enhance PP foam's mechanical properties. Due to the significantly enhanced rheological properties, injection molded PP composite foam exhibits greatly refined and homogenized cellular structure compared with pure PP foam. Thanks to rubber toughening effect and improved cellular morphology, PP/rubber foam shows much higher ductility than pure PP foam. Moreover, talc particles lead to remarkably enhanced rigidity of PP/rubber foams. Thus, lightweight and strong PP/rubber/talc composite foam is achieved with tensile toughness increased by 82.58% and impact strength increased by 106.21%, and they show broad industrial application prospects.
Effectiveness of Venting and Descender Devices at Increasing Rates of Postrelease Survival of Black Sea Bass
Authors: Rudershausen P. J. , Runde B. J. , Buckel J. A.
Published: December 2019

We tested the ability of venting and descender (recompression) devices to increase the relative survival of released Black Sea Bass Centropristis striata, a physoclistous reef species with high discard rates in hook-and-line fisheries that operate in the U.S. Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. We caught fish via hook and line from waters that were 38 m deep, a depth where Black Sea Bass often exhibit signs of barotrauma and may be unable to submerge after release. Fish were conventionally tagged and vented with either an 11-gauge cannula or a 16-gauge needle, descended using a descender (recompression) device, or released as tagged controls (no venting or recompression). Tests of independence were used to determine the relationship between submergence and treatment (excluding recompressed fish) as well as between submergence and tag return rate. Tag-recapture data were used to inform a Cox proportional hazards model that evaluated the survival of fish treated with each experimental device relative to the control group. A significantly greater proportion of fish submerged when treated with either venting device relative to the controls, and the fish that submerged had a greater proportion of tag returns relative to those that did not submerge. Venting and recompression increased postrelease survival compared with the controls. The results provide guidance to managers who seek methods to reduce discard mortality rates in hook-and-line fisheries for this important species. Future studies should examine the use of these devices at a range of depths to determine their effectiveness.
Indolent course of brainstem tumors with K27M‐H3.3 mutation
Authors: Baroni Lorena V. , Solano‐Paez Palma , Nobre Liana , Michaeli Orli , Hawkins Cynthia , Laughlin Suzanne , Bartels Ute , Ramaswamy Vijay , Bouffet Eric
Published: December 2019

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is characterized by a short history of brainstem symptoms and well‐known magnetic resonance imaging features with a fatal outcome. However, we report three unusual cases of brainstem tumors with an initial indolent and protracted course, which subsequently developed the classical imaging and clinical features of DIPG. Our findings support this notion that K27M is an early event in development and suggest that the emergence of additional events resulted in rapid progression after a long period of latency. Identification of such markers of aggressive behavior in the context of an indolent course is needed for better characterization and treatment management.
Investigation of segmental reorganization within amphiphilic block polymer nanoparticles derived from shell crosslinked micelle templates: Shell crosslinked knedel‐like inversion
Authors: Zhang Qi , Wooley Karen L.
Published: December 2019

The construction of nanoscopic materials by synthetic methodologies that iterate covalent and supramolecular interactions has been developed over the past three decades as a powerful method to afford complex functional materials. Indeed, the present study was nearly lost in the archives of dissertation research completed in 2001, which revealed nanoscale conformational dynamics in the segmental reorganization, and partial inversion, of topologically shell crosslinked knedel‐like (SCK) nanoparticles. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci. 2020, 58, 204–214
Combinatorial functionalization with bisurea‐peptides and antifouling bisurea additives of a supramolecular elastomeric biomaterial
Authors: Ippel Bastiaan D. , Arts Boris , Keizer Henk M. , Dankers Patricia Y. W.
Published: December 2019

The bioactive additive toolbox to functionalize supramolecular elastomeric materials expands rapidly. Here we have set an explorative step toward screening of complex combinatorial functionalization with antifouling and three peptide‐containing additives in a bisurea‐based supramolecular system. Thorough investigation of surface properties of thin films with contact angle measurements, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy, was correlated to cell‐adhesion of endothelial and smooth muscle cells to apprehend their respective predictive values for functional biomaterial development. Peptides were presented at the surface alone, and in combinatorial functionalization with the oligo(ethylene glycol)‐based non‐cell adhesive additive. The bisurea‐RGD additive was cell‐adhesive in all conditions, whereas the endothelial cell‐specific bisurea‐REDV showed limited bioactive properties in all chemical nano‐environments. Also, aspecific functionality was observed for a bisurea‐SDF1α peptide. These results emphasize that special care should be taken in changing the chemical nano‐environment with peptide functionalization. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Polymer Science Part B: Polymer Physics published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 1725–1735
Respiratory medication use in extremely premature (<29 weeks) infants during initial NICU hospitalization: Results from the prematurity and respiratory outcomes program
Authors: Greenberg James M. , Poindexter Brenda B. , Shaw Pamela A. , Bellamy Scarlett L. , Keller Roberta L. , Moore Paul E. , McPherson Christopher , Ryan Rita M.
Published: December 2019

Background

The use of medications to treat respiratory conditions of extreme prematurity is often based upon studies of adults or children over 2 years of age. Little is known about the spectrum of medications used or dosing ranges. To inform the design of future studies, we conducted a prospective analysis of respiratory medication exposure among 832 extremely low gestational age neonates.

Methods

The prematurity and respiratory outcomes program (PROP) enrolled neonates less than 29‐week gestation from 6 centers incorporating 13 clinical sites. We collected recorded daily “respiratory” medications given along with dosing information through 40‐week postmenstrual age or neonatal intensive care unit discharge if earlier.

Results

PROP participants were exposed to a wide range of respiratory medications, often at doses beyond published recommendations. Nearly 50% received caffeine and furosemide beyond published recommendations for cumulative dose. Those who developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia were more likely to receive treatment with respiratory medications. However, more than 30% of PROP subjects that did not develop bronchopulmonary dysplasia also were treated with diuretics, systemic steroids, and other respiratory medications.

Conclusion

Extremely preterm neonates in PROP were exposed to high doses of medications at levels known to generate significant adverse effects. With limited evidence for efficacy, there is an urgent need for controlled trials in this vulnerable patient population.
Removing cadmium from aqueous solutions utilizing agricultural wastes
Authors: Rizzuti Anthony M. , Orr Isheka S. , Wilson Kasey A. , Cosme Latoya W.
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine the cadmium (Cd) biosorption capacities of several agricultural wastes from aqueous solutions. Samples were tested unaltered and after hydrochloric acid treatment. Additional parameters tested include sample dose, contact time, particle size, mixing temperature, and the concentrations and pH of the Cd solutions. Desorption studies were performed to determine if the removed Cd could be recovered. In addition, tests were conducted to determine if the agricultural waste samples (AWS) could be reused for additional Cd biosorption cycles. The results of this study demonstrate a wide range of Cd biosorption proficiencies ranging from 33 to 100% removal. The parameters that resulted in higher Cd removal include higher sample dose, higher pH, and lower Cd solution concentration. Desorption results showed a 36–56% Cd recovery rate. Reused AWS were effective at removing Cd during subsequent trials. Therefore, all AWS types tested in this study can be reused for additional Cd biosorption cycles. Hence, it is possible that using AWS for metal treatment could reduce hazardous waste disposal inefficiencies and costs by avoiding disposing of spent AWS following each Cd biosorption cycle.
Allocating cleanup costs among potentially responsible parties
Authors: Ram Neil M. , Schneider Mark W. , Gerbig Chase A. , Nevins Nancy , Love Adam H.
Published: December 2019

Allocating costs for hazardous waste site cleanup among potentially responsible parties is unique to the specific circumstances, history, and data for the site. As such, distinct technical approaches are often needed considering the Gore and Torres factors to develop an overall allocation. These factors include both technical and nontechnical considerations that the trier of fact must weigh to arrive at the overall allocation. This article reviews the legal and technical framework in allocating cleanup costs at hazardous waste sites and presents several case histories illustrating the integration of fact, science and law in the final allocation.
Synthesis, Bioactivity and Mechanical Stability of Mg/Ca Silicate Biocomposites Developed for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Venkatraman Senthil Kumar , Swamiappan Sasikumar
Published: December 2019

Bioceramics used in hard tissue engineering applications should primarily meet the criteria of mechanical strength and apatite mineralisation of natural bone. In such a scenario, designing of bioceramic composites is inevitable as calcium silicates possess good apatite deposition ability and magnesium silicates show excellent mechanical stability. The present study investigates the influence of calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) ions of the bioceramics on bioactivity and mechanical strength. Binary silicates such as wollastonite (CaSiO3), enstatite (MgSiO3) and forsterite (Mg2SiO4) were prepared by sol‐gel combustion technique. Functional group identification and phase formation of the silicate materials were analysed by FT‐IR and X‐ray diffraction studies respectively. Furthermore, apatite mineralisation ability and mechanical strength of wollastonite were evaluated. Influence of wollastonite on the bioactivity of both enstatite and forsterite was also investigated. The obtained results conferred that the wollastonite possesses good apatite formation ability, moderate resorbability and low mechanical strength. The composites of wollastonite show improvement in the enstatite with respect to bioactivity and in forsterite with respect to superior mechanical properties.
Socially Just Hiring Practices
Authors: Wagner Rachel , Scott M. Keener
Published: December 2019

Authors provide a definition of social justice and apply its elements to recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes for professional staff.
Social Justice Learning Communities
Authors: Earnest Kurt , Pernotto Eric
Published: December 2019

In this chapter, authors discuss university housing learning communities focused on social justice principles. Authors provide diverse approaches and resources for implementing social justice learning communities.
Building for the Future: Reflection, Resources, and Recommendations
Authors: Howard Jimmy L. , Kerr Kathleen G.
Published: December 2019

We conclude the text with a look to the future and considerations and recommendations for centering social justice in residence life contexts.
Programming Multistationarity in Chemical Replication Networks
Authors: Wagner Nathaniel , Mukherjee Rakesh , Maity Indrajit , Kraun Sagi , Ashkenasy Gonen
Published: December 2019

Systems Chemistry generates platforms for studying the emergence of function in networks operating far from equilibrium. In this area, we have previously used experiments and simulations towards characterization and manipulation of small peptide‐based networks, driven by reversible self‐replication processes, that exhibit bistability. We now show how coupling two such networks, each exhibiting bistability, yields new dynamic systems that reach multiple (up to four) steady states. Furthermore, we demonstrate how such multistationarity, rarely analyzed before, can be systematically programmed and tuned. Our results suggest that the key to mimic biological complexification lies not only in the applied network size, the number of molecules involved, or even in the emergence of elaborate structures, but also in the network nature and topology.
An international perspective of the business incubators' perception about business model canvas for startups
Authors: Carvalho Luísa , Galina Simone , Sánchez‐Hernández M. Isabel
Published: December 2019

This work aims to approach the reasons for Business Incubators (BINCs) to replace Business Plan by Business Model Canvas (BMC) for creating and accelerating the startup process. The main value of this study lies in its empirical appliance to test the adoption of business modeling for startups in two different entrepreneurial ecosystems. A qualitative approach has been used in analyzing two case‐studies, one from Brazil (Supera) and the other from Portugal (Fabrica). The method used was inquiring into the managers' impressions when helping to create startups and accelerating their development. The analysis was based on the data obtained from interviews and secondary data through a content analysis technique supported by ATLAS ti 7.0 software. The findings highlight how the use of BMC is bringing real opportunities for the development of nascent businesses. Furthermore, the perceptions of the BINCs studied suggest the adequacy of this model to startups due to their flexibility, user‐friendliness, and capability to manage innovation, communicate, and share business logic.
Deep sea minerals ameliorate diabetic‐induced inflammation via inhibition of TNFα signaling pathways
Authors: Lu Chieh‐Hsiang , Ou Hsiu‐Chung , Day Cecilia‐Hsuan , Chen Hsiu‐I , Pai Pei‐Ying , Lee Cheng‐Yu , Chen Ray‐Jade , Chang Ruey‐Lin , PadmaViswanadha Vijaya , Hsieh Dennis Jine‐Yuan , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: December 2019

It has been well‐documented that the consumption of deep sea water (DSW) has beneficial effects on myocardial hypertrophy and cardiac apoptosis induced by hypercholesterolemia. However, the molecular mechanisms for the anti‐inflammatory effects of DSW on diabetic cardiomyopathy are still largely unclear. The main purpose of this present study was to test the hypothesis that DSW exerts anti‐inflammatory effects through the suppression of the TNF‐α‐mediated signaling pathways. IP injection of streptozotocin (STZ) at the dose of 65 mg/kg was used to establish a diabetes rat model. DSW mineral extracts that diluted in desalinated water were prepared in three different dosages and administered to the rats through gavages for 4 weeks. These dosages are DSW‐1X (equivalent to 37 mg Mg2+/kg/day), 2X (equivalent to 74 mg Mg2+/kg/day) and 3X (equivalent to 111 mg Mg2+ mg/kg/day). Immunofluorescence staining and Western blot showed that the protein expression level of TNF‐α was markedly higher in the STZ‐induced diabetic rat hearts than in the control group. Consequently, the phosphorylation levels of the TNF‐α‐modulated downstream signaling molecules and P38 mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) were notably elevated in heart tissues of STZ‐induced diabetes. These higher phosphorylation levels subsequently upregulated NF‐κB‐modulated inflammatory mediators, such as cyclooxygenase (COX)‐II and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). However, treatment with DSW as well as MgSO4, the main mineral in DSW, significantly reversed all the alterations. These findings suggest that DSW has potential as a therapeutic agent for preventing diabetes‐related cardiovascular diseases.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Thermal Stability, Magnetic Property, and Biological Activity of a New Copper(II) Complex Based on 1,2,4‐Benzenetricarboxylic Acid and 2,2′‐Bipyridine
Authors: He Xiong , Chen Fang , Zhang Dan , Li Yan , Yang Hong‐Li , Zhang Xiu‐Qing
Published: December 2019

Based on an asymmetric 1,2,4‐benzenetricarboxylic acid (H3btc) and 2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy), a new CuII complex, Cu2(H2btc)4(bpy)2·8H2O (1), was synthesized and structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, hirshfeld surface (HS) analysis, IR spectroscopy, powder X‐ray analysis, thermal gravimetry analysis (TGA), magnetic susceptibility, EPR measurement, and UV/Vis spectrometry. Complex 1 shows a dinuclear copper structure. The CuII of each dinuclear moiety are in a slightly distorted square‐pyramidal environments. Magnetic susceptibility of 1 shows a ferromagnetic coupling between both metal atoms. The interaction of 1 with bovine serum albumin (BSA) is investigated using UV/Vis, fluorescence spectroscopic methods. The CuII complex shows strong binding propensity in albumin binding study.
Efficient inference in state-space models through adaptive learning in online Monte Carlo expectation maximization
Authors: Henderson Donna , Lunter Gerton
Published: December 2019

Expectation maximization (EM) is a technique for estimating maximum-likelihood parameters of a latent variable model given observed data by alternating between taking expectations of sufficient statistics, and maximizing the expected log likelihood. For situations where sufficient statistics are intractable, stochastic approximation EM (SAEM) is often used, which uses Monte Carlo techniques to approximate the expected log likelihood. Two common implementations of SAEM, Batch EM (BEM) and online EM (OEM), are parameterized by a “learning rate”, and their efficiency depend strongly on this parameter. We propose an extension to the OEM algorithm, termed Introspective Online Expectation Maximization (IOEM), which removes the need for specifying this parameter by adapting the learning rate to trends in the parameter updates. We show that our algorithm matches the efficiency of the optimal BEM and OEM algorithms in multiple models, and that the efficiency of IOEM can exceed that of BEM/OEM methods with optimal learning rates when the model has many parameters. Finally we use IOEM to fit two models to a financial time series. A Python implementation is available athttps://github.com/luntergroup/IOEM.git.
Niche separation between different functional types of mixoplankton: results from NPZ-style N-based model simulations
Authors: Anschütz Anna-A , Flynn Kevin J.
Published: December 2019

Protist plankton comprise phytoplankton (incapable of phagotrophy), protozooplankton (incapable of phototrophy) and mixoplankton (capable of phototrophy and phagotrophy). Of these, only phytoplankton and zooplankton are typically described in models. Over the last decade, however, the importance of mixoplankton across all marine biomes has risen to prominence. We thus need descriptions of mixoplankton within marine models. Here we present a simple yet flexible N-based model describing any one of the five basic patterns of protist plankton: phytoplankton, protozooplankton, and the three functional groups of mixoplankton: general non-constitutive mixoplankton (GNCM), specialist non-constitutive mixoplankton (SNCM), and constitutive mixoplankton (CM). By manipulation of a few input switch values, the same model can be used to describe any of these patterns, while adjustment of salient features, such as the percent of C-fixation required for mixotrophic growth, and the rate of phototrophic prey ingestion required to enable growth of GNCM and SNCM types, readily provides fine tuning. Example outputs are presented showing how the performance of these different protist configurations accords with expectations (set against empirical evidence). Simulations demonstrate clear niche separations between these protist functional groups according to nutrient, prey and light resource availabilities. This addition to classic NPZ plankton models provides for the exploration of the implications of mixoplankton activity in a simple yet robust fashion.
Development of automated angle-scanning, high-speed surface plasmon resonance imaging and SPRi visualization for the study of dropwise condensation
Authors: Ahangar Shahab Bayani , Konduru Vinaykumar , Allen Jeffrey S. , Miljkovic Nenad , Lee Seong Hyuk , Choi Chang Kyoung
Published: December 2019

This paper describes the fabrication and testing of a novel angle-scanning surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi) instrument. The combination of two stationary mirrors and two angle-controlled mirrors provides high accuracy (up to 10−3°) and high-speed angular probing. This instrument minimizes the angle-dependent image artifact that arises due to beam walk, which is the biggest challenge for the use of SPRi with angular modulation (AM). In the work described in this paper, two linear stages were employed to minimize the image artifact by adjusting the location of the angle-controlled mirrors and the camera. The SPRi instrument was used to visualize coalescence during dropwise condensation. The results show that the effect of the environment’s temperature on reflectance was less than 1% when the incident angle was carefully chosen for SPRi with intensity modulation (IM). This means that condensation visualization can be carried out at ambient temperatures, without the need for a Peltier stage or a thermally controlled condensing surface. The concept of pixel neighboring was employed to assess the probability of noise and the standard error of thin film measurement. Experimental analyses during dropwise condensation show (1) the presence of a thin film with thickness of one monolayer, and (2) surface coverage of 0.71 m2/m2 by the thin film in the area between the droplets. In addition, analyses showed the existence of a dry area at the part of the substrate exposed by coalescence to ambient air. The results of this work undermine the validity of the film rupture theory as the dropwise condensation mechanism.

Graphic abstract
Tropical climate variability in the Community Earth System Model: Data Assimilation Research Testbed
Authors: Eliashiv Jonathan , Subramanian Aneesh C. , Miller Arthur J.
Published: December 2019

A new prototype coupled ocean–atmosphere Ensemble Kalman Filter reanalysis product, the Community Earth System Model using the Data Assimilation Research Testbed (CESM-DART), is studied by comparing its tropical climate variability to other reanalysis products, available observations, and a free-running version of the model. The results reveal that CESM-DART produces fields that are comparable in overall performance with those of four other uncoupled and coupled reanalyses. The clearest signature of differences in CESM-DART is in the analysis of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) and other tropical atmospheric waves. MJO energy is enhanced over the free-running CESM as well as compared to the other products, suggesting the importance of the surface flux coupling at the ocean–atmosphere interface in organizing convective activity. In addition, high-frequency Kelvin waves in CESM-DART are reduced in amplitude compared to the free-running CESM run and the other products, again supportive of the oceanic coupling playing a role in this difference. CESM-DART also exhibits a relatively low bias in the mean tropical precipitation field and mean sensible heat flux field. Conclusive evidence of the importance of coupling on data assimilation performance will require additional detailed direct comparisons with identically formulated, uncoupled data assimilation runs.
Radiological trends in trampoline-related paediatric injuries in a major paediatric trauma centre: a 6-year experience
Authors: Chambers Greg , Holton Colin , Kraft Jeannette K.
Published: December 2019

Aim

Review of visits to the radiology department related to trampoline injuries in a major trauma centre in the UK over a 6-year period, and analysis of imaging performed, injury type, and seasonal trends in children under 18 years of age.

Subject and methods

Retrospective review of the Radiology Information System (RIS) for requests and reports between January 2012 and December 2017 containing the search term “tramp*” with an age of < 18 years.

Results

A total of 1794 children (44% male, mean age 8.15) visited the radiology department 1871 times and received 2343 separate radiographic examinations, ten ultrasound examinations, 20 CT examinations, 19 MR examinations and two nuclear medicine examinations. Seven hundred and eighty-eight children (45.9% male) had injury demonstrated on radiographs (622 fractures and 183 soft-tissue injuries) during 796 visits to radiology. Positive CT, MRI, and US were seen in 55%, 47.3%, and 50% of cases respectively. Children under 7 years of age are more likely to have been injured compared to older children attending for X-rays, with the proportion of injuries seen in 6-year-old children being the highest (63.7%). Trampoline injury-related X-ray requests to radiology rose from 1.7% to 4% per year as a percentage of overall X-ray requests from the emergency department.

Conclusion

Trampoline injury-related visits to the radiology department and the number of injuries demonstrated on imaging studies have increased over the study period, putting greater pressure on the healthcare system. Younger children are especially prone to injury. Public health campaigns and mandatory national safety standards are needed to increase awareness of potential dangers of recreational trampoline use.
Serum lipidome analysis of healthy beagle dogs receiving different diets
Authors: Boretti Felicitas S. , Burla Bo , Deuel Jeremy , Gao Liang , Wenk Markus R. , Liesegang Annette , Sieber-Ruckstuhl Nadja S.
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Food and dietary ingredients have significant effects on metabolism and health.

Objective

To evaluate whether and how different diets affected the serum lipidomic profile of dogs.

Methods

Sixteen healthy beagles were fed a commercial dry diet for 3 months (control diet). After an overnight fasting period, a blood sample was taken for serum lipidomic profile analysis, and each dog was then randomly assigned to one of two groups. Group 1 was fed a commercial diet (Diet 1) and group 2 was fed a self-made, balanced diet supplemented with linseed oil and salmon oil (Diet 2) for 3 months. After an overnight fasting period, a blood sample was taken from each dog. Serum cholesterol and triacylglycerol analyses were performed and the serum lipidomic profiles were analyzed using targeted liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry.

Results

Dogs fed the supplemented self-made diet (Diet 2) had significantly higher omega-3 fatty acid-containing lipids species and significantly lower saturated and mono- and di-unsaturated lipid species. Concentrations of sphingosine 1-phosphate species S1P d16:1 and S1P d17:1 were significantly increased after feeding Diet 2.

Conclusion

This study found that different diets had significant effects on the dog’s serum lipidomic profile. Therefore, in studies that include lipidomic analyses, diet should be included as a confounding factor.
The role of local energy initiatives in co-producing sustainable places
Authors: Soares da Silva Diogo , Horlings Lummina G.
Published: December 2019

During the first two decades of the twenty-first century, the introduction of policies that promote renewable energy in Western European countries facilitated a shift towards the production of cleaner energy and its decentralisation. Subsidies, incentive schemes, and declining installation costs—combined with rapid technology advances—made the investment in small-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and wind turbines more attractive for individuals and small businesses. Simultaneously, we observe the emergence of citizen initiatives which aim to provide public services across various sectors, including renewable energy generation and distribution. These initiatives, started by citizens, often involve the participation of local residents and prioritise social and environmental goals. In some areas, governments and engaged citizens work together to achieve common goals through citizen–government co-production. In this article, we address the question: how can the co-production of government(s) and citizens, through local energy initiatives, contribute to the shaping of more sustainable places? Using the PlaCI model—a conceptual model of citizen initiatives and their role in shaping sustainable places—we conduct an analysis of WindpowerNijmegen, a citizen-led renewable energy cooperative in the Netherlands. We assess who the relevant stakeholders are, what are the enabling conditions for fruitful collaboration, which new arrangements are established, and how they contribute to shaping more sustainable places. The results indicate that local energy initiatives are place based, conditioned by the characteristics of the physical space needed for the production of renewable energy, specific institutional arrangements, place-based assets and people’s capacities characteristic for the place, and past collaboration.
Development and first results of a dedicated chronic total occlusion programme
Authors: van der Werf H. W. , Vlaar P. J. , van der Harst P. , Lipšic E.
Published: December 2019

Objective

To describe the development and first results of a dedicated chronic total occlusion (CTO) programme in a tertiary medical centre.

Background

Because of the complexity and the increased risk of complications during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for CTO, it is essential that less experienced and evolving CTO centres perform regular quality analyses.

Methods

We therefore performed analyses to describe the results during the first 3 years of a dedicated CTO programme at a high-volume PCI centre. In addition, we discuss the strategies employed to develop such a programme.

Results

A total of 179 consecutive patients undergoing 187 CTO procedures were included in the study. The complexity of the CTO lesions increased from a mean J‑CTO (Japanese Multicentre CTO Registry) score of 1.3 in 2015 to 2.1 in 2017. In the majority of cases, the antegrade wire escalation technique was performed. Final technical success rate was 78.5% in 175 patients with a single CTO and 80.2% of all 187 CTO procedures. No peri-procedural or in-hospital deaths occurred. One peri-procedural myocardial infarction occurred. Cardiac tamponade occurred in 2 cases, both managed by pericardiocentesis. No urgent cardiac surgery was necessary. Survival and revascularisation rates at 30 days and 1 year were excellent.

Conclusion

Following initiation of a dedicated CTO programme, using up-to-date techniques and strategies, procedural and clinical outcome were comparable with current standards in established centres.
Development of a multistep reaction cascade for the synthesis of a sacubitril precursor in continuous flow
Authors: Hiebler Katharina , Dertnig Carina , Soritz Sebastian , Maier Manuel C. , Hörmann Theresa R. , Grabner Bianca , Gruber-Woelfler Heidrun
Published: December 2019

The active pharmaceutical ingredient sacubitril acts as a neprilysin inhibitor in the body and is administered to patients suffering from high blood pressure and chronic heart failure. In this paper, we report the development of a three-step setup for the synthesis of an advanced sacubitril precursor in continuous flow. The key transformation of our cascade is a Suzuki-Miyaura coupling facilitated by a heterogeneous palladium catalyst. Its implementation in a packed-bed reactor and the application of continuous flow methodologies allow intensification of the cross-coupling reaction compared to batch processing. The subsequent steps for the synthesis of the target molecule involve Boc-deprotection as well as N-succinylation, which have been optimized using the statistical “Design of Experiments” (DoE) approach. In this way, the individual as well as interactive effects of selected parameters on the output of the reactions could be investigated very efficiently. The consecutive performance of the three reaction steps using an integrated setup enabled the synthesis of a late-stage sacubitril precursor in continuous flow with 81% overall yield.
Cooling down the world oceans and the earth by enhancing the North Atlantic Ocean current
Authors: Hunt Julian David , Nascimento Andreas , Diuana Fabio A. , de Assis Brasil Weber Natália , Castro Gabriel Malta , Chaves Ana Carolina , Mesquita André Luiz Amarante , Colling Angéli Viviani , Schneider Paulo Smith
Published: December 2019

The world is going through intensive changes due to global warming. It is well known that the reduction in ice cover in the Arctic Ocean further contributes to increasing the atmospheric Arctic temperature due to the reduction of the albedo effect and increase in heat absorbed by the ocean’s surface. The Arctic ice cover also works like an insulation sheet, keeping the heat in the ocean from dissipating into the cold Arctic atmosphere. Increasing the salinity of the Arctic Ocean surface would allow the warmer and less salty North Atlantic Ocean current to flow on the surface of the Arctic Ocean considerably increasing the temperature of the Arctic atmosphere and release the ocean heat trapped under the ice. This paper argues that if the North Atlantic Ocean current could maintain the Arctic Ocean ice-free during the winter, the longwave radiation heat loss into space would be larger than the increase in heat absorption due to the albedo effect. This paper presents details of the fundamentals of the Arctic Ocean circulation and presents three possible approaches for increasing the salinity of the surface water of the Arctic Ocean. It then discusses that increasing the salinity of the Arctic Ocean would warm the atmosphere of the Arctic region, but cool down the oceans and possibly the Earth. However, it might take thousands of years for the effects of cooling the oceans to cool the global average atmospheric temperature.
New three-dimensional second-order sliding mode guidance law with impact-angle constraints
Authors: Zhao F.-J. , You H.
Published: December 2019

Aiming at the issue of missiles attacking on-ground maneuvering targets in three-dimensional space, a three-dimensional finite-time guidance law with impact-angle constraints is proposed. In order to improve convergence speed and restrain chattering phenomenon, the nonsingular fast terminal three-dimensional second-order sliding mode guidance law with coupling terms is designed based on the theory of nonhomogeneous fast terminal sliding surface and second-order sliding mode control. The system model need not be linearized during the design process, and the singular problem is avoided. A nonhomogeneous disturbance observer is designed to estimate and compensate the total disturbance, which is caused by target maneuvering information and coupling terms of line of sight. And the stability and finite-time convergence of the guidance law are proved strictly and mathematically. Finally, simulation results have verified the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed guidance law.
Subject Matter Specialization of European Union Jurisdiction in the Preliminary Rulings Procedure
Authors: Jacobs Matthias , Münder Matthias , Richter Barbara
Published: December 2019

Over the years, judgments by the European Court of Justice (“ECJ”) have been—sometimes heavily—criticized. While the recent reforms to the EU’s judicial system have addressed the high caseload of the General Court of the European Union (“GC”), the perceived lack of quality of the ECJ’s judgments in preliminary rulings procedures remains an issue. This Article will outline in what way these judgments are criticized and try to examine the root causes of the criticism. It goes on to argue that subject matter specialization is an adequate answer to this criticism and examines how subject matter specialization can be introduced into the European Union (“EU”) judicial system.
A conceptual framework to promote labor force participation and career development for people with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Strauser David R. , Rumrill Phillip D. , Greco Chelsea , Strauser D. George
Published: December 2019

This article presents the Illinois Work and Well-Being Model as a framework that can be applied to facilitate the career development of people with diabetes mellitus. The model emphasizes the interaction of contextual and career development domains to improve participation in the areas of work, society, community, and home. This article provides a brief discussion of the potential implications of vocational rehabilitation research, service, and policy, with the overall goal of reinforcing career development as the foundation of vocational rehabilitation services for adults with diabetes mellitus and other chronic health conditions.
A NONDEGENERATE EXCHANGE MOVE ALWAYS PRODUCES INFINITELY MANY NONCONJUGATE BRAIDS
Authors: ITO TETSUYA
Published: December 2019

We show that if a link $L$ has a closed $n$-braid representative admitting a nondegenerate exchange move, an exchange move that does not obviously preserve the conjugacy class, $L$ has infinitely many nonconjugate closed $n$-braid representatives.
Comparison of the eating behaviour and dietary consumption in older adults with and without visual impairment
Authors: Jones Nabila , Bartlett Hannah Elizabeth
Published: December 2019

Globally, a high prevalence of obesity and undernutrition has been reported in people with visual impairment (VI) who have reported multi-factorial obstacles that prevent them from achieving a healthy diet, such as having restricted shopping and cooking abilities. The present study is the first to investigate the relationship between VI and dietary consumption using a representative sample size, standardised methods to categorise VI and a detailed analysis of dietary consumption. Ninety-six participants with VI and an age-matched control group of fifty participants were recruited from across the UK. All participants were aged 50 years or over. The participants completed a 24-h food recall for a period of 3 d. The participants also answered questions about their abilities to shop for and cook food as well as their knowledge of healthy eating. The participants with VI in this sample consumed significantly fewer energy content and other nutrients than is recommended for their age group and when compared with an age-matched control group. The participants with VI mainly made food choices irrespective of nutritional value. The results of the present study highlight for the first time that a large proportion of older adults with VI in the UK are undernourished. These results suggest local and government-led initiatives should be implemented to support the diets of older adults in the UK, and these initiatives could include healthy eating workshops, café clubs or skills training and rehabilitation.