bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ovariectomy Activates Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation Mediated by Memory T Cells, Which Promotes Osteoporosis in Mice
Authors: Cline-Smith Anna , Axelbaum Ariel , Shashkova Elena , Chakraborty Mousumi , Sanford Jessie , Panesar Prabhjyot , Peterson Macey , Cox Linda , Baldan Angel , Veis Deborah , Aurora Rajeev
Published: January 2020

The loss of estrogen (E2) initiates a rapid phase of bone loss leading to osteoporosis in one-half of postmenopausal women, but the mechanism is not fully understood. Here, we show for the first time how loss of E2 activates low-grade inflammation to promote the acute phase of bone catabolic activity in ovariectomized (OVX) mice. E2 regulates the abundance of dendritic cells (DCs) that express IL-7 and IL-15 by inducing the Fas ligand (FasL) and apoptosis of the DC. In the absence of E2, DCs become long-lived, leading to increased IL-7 and IL-15. We find that IL-7 and IL-15 together, but not alone, induced antigen-independent production of IL-17A and TNFα in a subset of memory T cells (TMEM). OVX of mice with T-cell–specific ablation of IL15RA showed no IL-17A and TNFα expression, and no increase in bone resorption or bone loss, confirming the role of IL-15 in activating the TMEM and the need for inflammation. Our results provide a new mechanism by which E2 regulates the immune system, and how menopause leads to osteoporosis. The low-grade inflammation is likely to cause or contribute to other comorbidities observed postmenopause. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Both NPY-Expressing and CART-Expressing Neurons Increase Energy Expenditure and Trabecular Bone Mass in Response to AP1 Antagonism, But Have Opposite Effects on Bone Resorption
Authors: Idelevich Anna , Sato Kazusa , Avihai Byron , Nagano Kenichi , Galien Antonin , Rowe Glenn , Gori Francesca , Baron Roland
Published: January 2020

Energy metabolism and bone homeostasis share several neuronal regulatory pathways. Within the ventral hypothalamus (VHT), the orexigenic neurons co-express Agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) and the anorexigenic neurons co-express, α-melanocyte stimulating hormone derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC), and cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART). These neurons regulate both processes, yet their relative contribution is unknown. Previously, using genetically targeted activator protein (AP1) alterations as a tool, we showed in adult mice that AgRP or POMC neurons are capable of inducing whole-body energy catabolism and bone accrual, with different effects on bone resorption. Here, we investigated whether co-residing neurons exert similar regulatory effects. We show that AP1 antagonists targeted to NPY-producing or CART-producing neurons in adult mice stimulate energy expenditure, reduce body weight gain and adiposity and promote trabecular bone formation and mass, yet again via different effects on bone resorption, as measured by serum level of carboxy-terminal collagen type I crosslinks (CTX). In addition, AP1 antagonists promote neurite expansion, increasing neurite number, length, and surface area in primary hypothalamic neuronal cultures. Overall, our data demonstrate that the orexigenic NPY and anorexigenic CART neurons both have the capacity to stimulate energy burning state and increase bone mass. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
A compound reflects the level of homocysteine based on Rhodamine B and its ability to respond to homocysteine in the plasma of diabetic patients
Authors: Zhao Weiyu , Cheng Han , Zhu Yu
Published: January 2020

Background

The level of homocysteine (Hcy) is significantly elevated in the plasma of patients with diabetes. The increased plasma Hcy level is positively correlated with the severity of the disease and is one of the important causes of diabetic complications.

Methods

We designed and synthesized a compound could reflect the level of Hcy based on rhodamine B, and the structure was verified by 1H‐NMR and EI‐HRMS. Then, the linearity, repeatability, selectivity, and cellar toxicity, the effects of the fluid viscosity and pH of compound on Hcy were measured; meanwhile, the response of Hcy level in the plasma of diabetic patients was detected.

Results

This is a novel compound that has never been reported. The compound showed a satisfactory linear range and repeatability at the viscosity and pH of physiological fluid. In addition, the compound was capable of evading the interference from other amino acids and metal ions, and it exhibited high selectivity toward Hcy.

Conclusion

The compound showed increased responsiveness to plasma Hcy in patients with diabetes in comparison with healthy individuals and effectively reflected plasma Hcy levels in healthy individuals and diabetic patients. Therefore, the compound is expected to be used in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.
Kagami‐Ogata syndrome: an important differential diagnosis to Beckwith‐Wiedemann syndrome
Authors: Altmann Judith , Horn Denise , Korinth Dirk , Eggermann Thomas , Henrich Wolfgang , Verlohren Stefan
Published: January 2020

We report the case of a fetus with sonographic characteristics of Beckwith‐Wiedemann syndrome (BWS). A 30‐year‐old gravida 2 para 1 was referred to our fetal medicine unit with an omphalocele. Fetal macrosomia, organomegaly, and polyhydramnios but no macroglossia were detected and BWS was suspected. Genetic testing for BWS did not confirm the suspected diagnosis as the karyotype was normal. Symptomatic polyhydramnios led to repeated amnioreductions. At 35 + 5 weeks of gestation, a female neonate of 3660 g was delivered with APGAR scores of 6/7/8, after 1/5/10 min, respectively. The abnormal shape of the thorax, facial dysmorphism, need for ventilation, and generalized muscular hypotonia led to the suspicion of Kagami‐Ogata syndrome (KOS), which was confirmed by genetic testing. KOS in our patient was caused by a large deletion in the MEG3‐region on chromosome 14q32 affecting the maternal allele. In this report, we highlight the notion that when sonographic signs suggestive of BWS such as macrosomia, polyhydramnios, and omphalocele are present and genetic testing does not confirm the suspected diagnosis, KOS should be tested for.
Using a nutrient profile index to assess reclamation strategies in the Athabasca oil sands region of northern Alberta
Authors: Hogberg Jeffrey I. , MacKenzie M. Derek , Pinno Bradley D.
Published: January 2020

Land reclamation in the Athabasca oil sands region requires construction of entire soil profiles from materials salvaged during mining. Although much attention has been paid to the limited supply of suitable topsoil materials and their impact on ecosystem recovery, suitable clean subsoil materials are also in limited supply, and their efficient and effective use is an important consideration for land managers in the region. Using data from an oil sands reclamation site in northern Alberta, Canada, we compared soil and foliar nutrients to a wildfire‐impacted reference ecosystem with a similarity index. Specifically, we evaluated the similarity of forest floor‐mineral mix (FFM) and peat‐mineral mix (PM) as topsoil, as well as the effect of different depths of salvaged B and C horizon subsoil with PM on top. All reclamation treatments were planted with jack pine (Pinus banksianaLamb.) and trembling aspen (Populus tremuloidesMichx.), which were used to examine foliar nutrient concentrations. Individual macronutrient concentrations were different among treatments in total soil nutrients, but differences decreased in soil bioavailable nutrients and disappeared altogether in foliar nutrients. The similarity index revealed that distinct differences existed between treatments, with FFM being the most similar to the wildfire site. It also revealed a potential deficiency in foliar and soil bioavailable Mn on PM, and that increased water content of deeper subsoils had little to no effect. With use of this nutrient profile similarity index, reclamation practitioners may be able to determine if different soil prescriptions lead to higher levels of similarity to natural ecosystems more quickly.
Advanced decision‐making using patient‐reported outcome measures in total joint replacement
Authors: Jayakumar Prakash , Bozic Kevin J.
Published: January 2020

Up to one‐third of total joint replacement (TJR) procedures may be performed inappropriately in a subset of patients who remain dissatisfied with their outcomes, stressing the importance of shared decision‐making. Patient‐reported outcome measures capture physical, emotional, and social aspects of health and wellbeing from the patient's perspective. Powerful computer systems capable of performing highly sophisticated analysis using different types of data, including patient‐derived data, such as patient‐reported outcomes, may eliminate guess work, generating impactful metrics to better inform the decision‐making process. We have created a shared decision‐making tool which generates personalized predictions of risks and benefits from TJR based on patient‐reported outcomes as well as clinical and demographic data. We present the protocol for a randomized controlled trial designed to assess the impact of this tool on decision quality, level of shared decision‐making, and patient and process outcomes. We also discuss current concepts in this field and highlight opportunities leveraging patient‐reported data and artificial intelligence for decision support across the care continuum.
Storage characteristics of infrared radiation stabilized rice bran and its shelf‐life evaluation by prediction modeling
Authors: He Rong , Wang Yujiao , Zou Yucheng , Wang Zhigao , Ding Chao , Wu Ying , Ju Xingrong
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Rice bran is a nutrient‐dense and resource‐rich byproduct produced from the rice milling. The limitation of rice bran utilization is mainly caused by oxidative deterioration. Improvement of stability to prolong rice bran shelf‐life has thus become an urgent requirement.

RESULTS

The present study aimed to determine the characteristics of infrared radiation heat treatment of rice bran (IRRB) and raw rice bran stored under different temperatures. The effects of heating and storage time on physicochemical, microbial, storage stability and structural properties were investigated. Additionally, the prediction model for the shelf‐life of rice bran was established based on free fatty acids and the peroxide value by fitting the curve of bran lipid oxidation. The results obtained demonstrated that infrared radiation heating at 300 °C for 210 s resulted in decreased lipase activity and peroxidase activity of 73.05% and 81.50%, respectively. The free fatty acids and peroxide value of IRRB stored at 4 and 25 °C for 8 weeks were only reached at 2.35% and 3.17% and 2.53 and 3.64 meq kg−1, respectively. The shelf‐life prediction model showed the the shelf‐life of infrared radiation‐treated samples increased to 71.6 and 25.8 weeks under storage at 4 and 25 °C, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The stabilizing process could effectively suppress microbial growth and had no prominent effect on the physicochemical and microstructure properties of rice bran and, simultaneously, storage life was greatly extended. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
TRANSFOR­MATIONAL LEADERSHIP REQUIRES COURAGE
Authors: Beer Michael
Published: January 2020

The article emphasizes the need for leaders to act courageously in order for corporate transformations to succeed. Statistics point to the facts that most transformations fail to achieve or sustain envisioned changes. Findings are presented from the author's experience of 30 years leading True Point Partners, including what it calls an organizationwide honest, collective, and public (internally) conversation about an organization's ability to achieve its strategy and live its values. A case study is presented regarding Becton Dickinson's outgoing chief executive officer, Ed Ludwig, and his soon‐to‐be‐successor, Vince Forlenza, during 2010, when it was an eight‐billion‐dollar global medical technology. Although the company was already successful, a transformation for its new strategy would require the transformation of its whole system of organizing, managing, and leading. Seven points are discussed and elaborated onadvocate and inquire; inspire trust by revealing one's humanity; embrace feedback and own it; confront difficult problems and resolve conflict; courage‐enabled requisite systemic change; replace heroic leadership with collective leadership; suppress ego, become vulnerable, and learn. The conclusion asserts that the best leaders made honest, collective, and public conversation a regular and ongoing means for continuous improvement in effectiveness, trust, and commitment.
AIMING HIGH IN GLOBAL HEALTH CHALLENGES: PERSPECTIVES FROM A NONPROFIT LEADER
Authors: Saligram Nalini
Published: January 2020

This article presents the author's reflections on leadership and creating and running a nonprofit; in this case, the global health organization Arogya World, started in 2010. In that year, I saw noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)—chronic diseases including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, lung disease, and mental illness—as the next big frontier in global health, and one worth dedicating the rest of my life to. Statistics from the World Health Organization are noted around the prevalence and prevention of NCDs. Diabetes and its prevention in India is Arogya World's focus area because I have seen firsthand what diabetes does. I have the disease, as do others in my family. (“Arogya” means freedom from disease in Sanskrit.) Arogya World is a small nonprofit, but it thinks big and aims to be mighty. It has partnered with such entities as Emory University and the multinational company Nokia; as well as Northwestern University and Stanford's CARE (Center for Asian Health Research and Education). The conclusion notes that leaders are both thinkers and doers, with a good sense of self‐worth and a deep sense of purpose. They make meaningful contributions to society through being authentic, accountable, and delivering on their promises.
Optically Transparent and Thermal‐Stable Polyimide Films Derived from a Semi‐Aliphatic Diamine: Synthesis and Properties
Authors: Wu Xiuming , Shu Chen , He Xiaoqian , Wang Shoubai , Fan Xiang , Yu Zhenhai , Yan Deyue , Huang Wei
Published: January 2020

A novel semi‐aliphatic diamine with bulky cyclohexyl and ortho‐substituted tertiary butyl groups (4,4'‐(cyclohexylmethylene)bis(2‐(tert‐butyl)aniline), CHMBTBA) is synthesized via Mannich and rearrangement reactions of cyclohexanecarboxaldehyde and 2‐tert‐butylaniline. Afterward, several semi‐aliphatic polyimides are prepared by the high‐temperature one‐pot polymerization of CHMBTBA with various aromatic dianhydrides respectively. The resulting PIs exhibit outstanding solubility in common organic solvents (i.e., trichloromethane, etc.) and are easily processed into light color or colorless transparent films (thickness: 25 ± 1 µm) by the blade coating of polymer solution. The transmittance of all resulting films is above 86% in the visible light region (400–760 nm). Their glass transition temperatures exceed 310 °C and reach even to 374 °C (by differential scanning calorimetry). They also display low water absorption (0.29–0.87%) and good mechanical properties (tensile strength: 50.9–87.7 MPa, Young's modulus: 2.0‐2.5 GPa, elongation at break: 3.8–7.6%). Thus, they are promising potential candidates for flexible display substrates.
Stability of equilibrium solutions of a double power reaction‐diffusion equation with a Dirac interaction
Authors: Hernández César Adolfo Melo , Mayorga Edgar Yesid Lancheros
Published: January 2020

In this paper, information about the instability of equilibrium solutions of a nonlinear family of localized reaction‐diffusion equations in dimension one is provided. More precisely, explicit formulas to the equilibrium solutions are computed and, via analytic perturbation theory, the exact number of positive eigenvalues of the linear operator associated to the stability problem is analyzed. In addition, sufficient conditions for blow up of the solutions of the equation are also discussed.
The Peter Pan syndrome for small and medium‐sized enterprises: Evidence from Korean manufacturing firms
Authors: Choi Mincheol , Lee Chang‐Yang
Published: January 2020

This study examines whether government support for small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), aimed at stimulating their growth, achieves its intended goal. We argue that government subsidies create the incentive for SMEs to remain small in order to keep receiving such support and thus SMEs are reluctant to grow. We call this phenomenon the Peter Pan syndrome. Using a dataset of Korean manufacturing firms during the period of 2010–2012, we find that the Peter Pan syndrome indeed exists and that the likelihood of the Peter Pan syndrome is conditioned by factors that influence their incentive to remain as SMEs.
Low‐profile TM incident retrodirective metasurface based on generalized sheet transition conditions and Babinet's principle
Authors: Lee Sun‐Gyu , Lee Jeong‐Hae
Published: January 2020

This article presents a method to design low‐profile TM incident retrodirective metasurface (RMS). The equivalent circuit model based on generalized sheet transition conditions (GSTCs) and modified Babinet's principle are used to design the unit cell of RMS for full reflection phase coverage (FRPC). The slots on the unitcell and the artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) ground are used for TM wave and low‐profile, respectively. The height of the designed RMS is reduced by 50%, compared with previous TM incident RMS. The measured bistatic pattern and efficiency are in good agreement with those of the simulation.
Dispelling Myths and Unfounded Practices About Enteral Nutrition
Authors: Zoeller Stephanie , Bechtold Matthew L. , Burns Berri , Cattell Theresa , Grenda Brandee , Haffke Lindsey , Larimer Cara , Powers Jan , Reuning Fred , Tweel Lauren , Guenter Peggi ,   the ASPEN Enteral Nutrition Task Force
Published: January 2020

Many protocols and steps in the process of enteral nutrition (EN) use are not overly supported with strong research and have been done the same way over many years without questioning the use of best‐practices evidence. This article reports many of the myths and unfounded practices surrounding EN and attempts to refute those myths with current evidence. These practices include those about enteral access devices, formulas, enteral administration, and complications.
Shooting pheasants for sport: What does the death of Cecil tell us?
Authors: Feber Ruth E. , Johnson Paul J. , Macdonald David W.
Published: January 2020

People hunt and kill animals for sport in many parts of the world. This raises many issues, some of which were brought to the fore when a lion Panthera leo, nicknamed Cecil, was killed by a trophy hunter in Zimbabwe in 2015. Cecil's death led to an unprecedented public reaction in Europe and the USA, and a debate in which opponents and supporters of sport hunting advanced different types of argument based on, inter alia, conservation, animal welfare and economics.

The reaction to the Cecil event provides a perspective for scrutinizing sport hunting more widely. In this article we explore parallels between lion trophy hunting in Africa (which can involve either wild or captive‐bred lions) and shooting of common pheasant Phasianus colchicus, a sport which is largely sustained in the UK by the annual release of over 40 million captive‐bred birds.

These two forms of sport hunting share common themes that are likely to be influential for the future of sport hunting more widely. These include the extent to which sport hunting maintains land for wildlife, and the impacts of intensification (e.g. the extent to which quarry are reared and released). Concern for the welfare of quarry animals is a dominant theme in debates about hunting.

These themes are likely to be relevant for the conservation of many species hunted for sport. Increasing distaste for the killing of animals for sport in many countries may lead to the end of some types of sport hunting, with implications for both habitat and wildlife conservation. It would be both prudent and appropriate for conservationists to increase the urgency with which they seek alternative methods for preventing loss of biodiverse land to other uses.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Nutritional concerns of survivors of childhood cancer: A “First World” perspective
Authors: Cohen Jennifer , Collins Laura , Gregerson Laura , Chandra Joya , Cohn Richard J.
Published: January 2020

Childhood cancer survivor (CCS) numbers are increasing as a result of advances in both treatment and supportive care. This positive outcome is tempered by the recognition of a high burden of chronic health conditions. Here, we review the nutritional concerns of CCS, including dietary habits after treatment and the factors during treatment that may contribute to chronic health conditions. Dietary interventions that have been conducted in CCS will be summarized along with focused goals of these interventions. We will also address the need to leverage these interventions to reduce the risk of chronic disease in CCS.
Impact of intrauterine transfusion on fetal coagulation physiology by thromboelastography
Authors: Emery Stephen P. , Lopa Samia , Waters Jonathan H.
Published: January 2020

Objective

Thromboelastography (TEG) is a point‐of‐care device used to evaluate whole blood coagulation function. The TEG is unique as a test of coagulation function in that it measures the interaction of all components of clot formation, which is different than traditional laboratory‐based tests that measure isolated components of coagulation. Little is known about fetal coagulation physiology. We sought to evaluate the impact of severe fetal anemia and intrauterine transfusion (IUT) on fetal coagulation physiology by use of the TEG and to compare fetal TEG values to those of healthy neonates and adults.

Method

One milliliter of fetal blood was collected immediately before (pre) and after (post) IUT of packed red blood cells (PRBCs). Sampling and transfusion were performed for fetal anemia due to hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. Samples were run in duplicate. For descriptive summary, duplicate pre‐IUT and post‐IUT values were averaged. Values for R (initiation of clot in minutes), K (clot firmness in minutes), angle (kinetics of clot development in degrees), and MA (maximum strength in mm) were obtained for each sample and presented using mean ± SE. Pre‐IUT values for R, K, angle, and MA were compared with post‐IUT values using linear mixed‐effect model to account for clustering due to repeated observation from the same fetus. Pre‐IUT values are compared with normal healthy term neonates and healthy adults using Wald test. The study was approved by the University of Pittsburgh Institutional Review Board (PRO14050051).

Results

Four fetuses underwent nine IUTs rendering 17 pre‐IUT and 17 post‐IUT specimens. The mean gestational age at IUT was 31 weeks 2 days (25 weeks 4 days to 35 weeks 2 days). The mean IUT volume transfused was 69 mL (30‐170 mL). The mean estimated percent intravascular volume transfused was 33.4% (19%‐52%). Of the four variables analyzed, only R showed a significant difference, with the initiation of clot formation being modestly delayed after transfusion by an estimated 2.87 minutes (95% CI, 0.82‐4.92, P = .0480). Pre‐IUT values were compared with 100 normal term neonates and 118 healthy adults. Compared with pre‐IUT, only R was affected (shorter) compared with term neonates (mean ± SE = 5.46 ± 0.16 minute, P < .001) and healthy adults (mean ± SE = 6.8 ± 0.13 minute, P < .001).

Conclusion

Other than a modest prolongation of clot formation time, IUT of PRBCs of up to 52% of the estimated intravascular volume did not affect fetal coagulation function by TEG. Other than a shorter clot formation time (R), there is no difference in TEG values between anemic preterm fetuses and healthy term neonates and healthy adults. Beyond generalizable knowledge, this information could be exploited for future fetal intervention techniques
Ten fatty acyl‐CoA reductase family genes were essential for the survival of the destructive rice pest, Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: Li Dan‐Ting , Dai Yi‐Ting , Chen Xuan , Wang Xin‐Qiu , Li Ze‐Dong , Moussian Bernard , Zhang Chuan‐Xi
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Fatty alcohols are the precursors of sex pheromone components, wax esters and hydrocarbons in insects. Fatty acyl‐CoA reductases (FARs) are important enzymes required for the reduction of fatty alcohol and thereby contribute to the production of cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC).

RESULTS

Based on bioinformatics analyses we identified 17 FAR genes in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens. RNA interference against these genes demonstrated that ten NlFAR genes were essential for the survival of N. lugens. For instance, knockdown of NlFAR5, 6, 11 or 15 was lethal and caused a slender body shape, while the old cuticles of the respective animals remained attached to the abdomen or failed to split open from the nota. Knockdown of NlFAR9 resulted in a phenotype, with a smooth body surface and a decrease in CHC amounts. Similarly, CHC deficiency in N. lugens resulted in increased adhesion of water droplets and secreted honeydew to the insect surface and the inability of N. lugens to survive in paddy fields with varying humidity. Knockdown of NlFAR1, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11 and 13 additionally resulted in female adult infertility.

CONCLUSION

The present study illustrates the structural and functional differences of FAR family genes and provides potential targets for RNA interference‐based rice planthopper management. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Highly Ordered and Crystalline Cu Nanowires in Anodic Aluminum Oxide Membranes for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Nehra Monika , Dilbaghi Ananya N. , Singh Vishal , Singhal Nitin Kumar , Kumar Sandeep
Published: January 2020

1D metallic nanostructures have become a subject of intensive research due to their potential application in the biomedical field such as sensing, imaging, drug delivery, and biodevices. Herein, anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template is used to electrochemically grow the highly crystalline Cu nanowires. The electrodeposition potential for copper solution is identified by cyclic voltammetry. The Cu nanowire‐deposited AAO template is further characterized using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy, wavelength dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (WDXRF) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The Cu‐deposited AAO template is tested for antibacterial activity against different microorganisms (including both gram positive as well as gram negative). Further, the assessment of the cytotoxic nature of Cu nanowires is a fundamental step for their application in the biomedical field. The favorable properties of Cu‐deposited AAO template in terms of excellent antibacterial effects and low cytotoxicity promote their application in the biomedical field, especially for medical diagnosis.
Beyond linear evidence: The curvilinear relationship between secondary traumatic stress and vicarious posttraumatic growth among healthcare professionals
Authors: Dar Imtiyaz Ahmad , Iqbal Naved
Published: January 2020

Insufficient and inconsistent research exists regarding the relationship between secondary traumatic stress (STS) and vicarious posttraumatic growth (VPTG). Some authors suggest that the STS–VPTG relationship can be linear, whereas others suggest that the relationship can best be represented as curvilinear. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to examine whether the relationship between STS and VPTG is essentially linear or curvilinear. A cross‐sectional correlational research design was employed, and a total of 258 surgeons, psychiatrists, and physicians who deal with victims of the ongoing conflict were selected. After controlling for the effects of vicarious and direct traumatic exposure and experience, results of hierarchical regression provide support for the curvilinear association between STS and VPTG among the overall sample (the curvilinear model explained 4.6% of the variance in Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) scores beyond the variance explained by the linear model) and among professional groups of surgeons and physicians (the curvilinear model explained 4.3% of the variance in PTGI scores among surgeons and 3.5% of the variance in PTGI scores among physicians over and above variance explained by the linear models, respectively). Findings suggest that moderate levels of STS are most associated with the highest levels of VPTG.
Non‐3d Metal Modulation of a 2D Ni–Co Heterostructure Array as Multifunctional Electrocatalyst for Portable Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Liu Wenxian , Yu Linhai , Yin Ruilian , Xu Xilian , Feng Jinxiu , Jiang Xuan , Zheng Dong , Gao Xinlong , Gao Xiaobin , Que Wenbin , Ruan Pengchao , Wu Fangfang , Shi Wenhui , Cao Xiehong
Published: January 2020

Portable water splitting devices driven by rechargeable metal–air batteries or solar cells are promising, however, their scalable usages are still hindered by lack of suitable multifunctional electrocatalysts. Here, a highly efficient multifunctional electrocatalyst is demonstrated, i.e., 2D nanosheet array of Mo‐doped NiCo2O4/Co5.47N heterostructure deposited on nickel foam (Mo‐NiCo2O4/Co5.47N/NF). The successful doping of non‐3d high‐valence metal into a heterostructured nanosheet array, which is directly grown on a conductive substrate endows the resultant catalyst with balanced electronic structure, highly exposed active sites, and binder‐free electrode architecture. As a result, the Mo‐NiCo2O4/Co5.47N/NF exhibits remarkable catalytic activity toward the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), affording high current densities of 50 mA cm−2 at low overpotentials of 310 mV for OER, and 170 mV for HER, respectively. Moreover, a low voltage of 1.56 V is achieved for the Mo‐NiCo2O4/Co5.47N/NF‐based water splitting cell to reach 10 mA cm−2. More importantly, a portable overall water splitting device is demonstrated through the integration of a water‐splitting cell and two Zn–air batteries (open‐circuit voltage of 1.43 V), which are all fabricated based on Mo‐NiCo2O4/Co5.47N/NF, demonstrating a low‐cost way to generate fuel energy. This work offers an effective strategy to develop high‐performance metal‐doped heterostructured electrode.
Understanding signcryption security in standard model
Authors: Dharminder Dharminder , Mishra Dheerendra
Published: January 2020

Signcryption is an advanced technique that combines both signature and encryption in one step which costs lower than any ordinary signature‐then‐encryption technique. Many ID‐based signcryption () techniques have been constructed, but they are considered secure in the random Oracle (RO) model, where the proofs in this environment are criticized as it always depends on the assumption that Oracle is truly random. This assumption of RO is not possible in reality. Therefore, many of the ID‐based signcryptions were proposed in the widely accepted standard model. As signcryption schemes have much important application, the verification of their correctness, security, and performance are required. In this article, we have discussed two important security features in the standard model under decision bilinear Diffie‐Hellman (DBDH) and computational Diffie‐Hellman(CDH) assumptions, namely, (a) indistinguishable against chosen cipher text attack and (b) indistinguishable against chosen‐plaintext attack. To understand the security of existing schemes, we present cryptanalysis, which illustrates weak security. The study on performance is also performed to analyze the communication and computational efficiency. The study of performance and security analysis helps us to understand the requirement of signcryption scheme in standard model.
Polynomial chaos expansion for lifetime assessment and sensitivity analysis of reinforced concrete structures subjected to chloride ingress and climate change
Authors: Bastidas‐Arteaga Emilio , El Soueidy Charbel‐Pierre , Amiri Ouali , Nguyen Phu Tho
Published: January 2020

Chloride‐induced corrosion is one of the main causes leading to the lifetime reduction of reinforced concrete (RC) structures in marine environments or subjected to de‐icing salts. Modeling chloride ingress into concrete in a comprehensive way is therefore a crucial task to evaluate corrosion initiation risk and carry out preventive maintenance. Nevertheless, this comprehensive modeling is a challenging task that requires solving simultaneously a set of coupled non‐linear partial differential equations. This task becomes more complex if the inherent uncertainties of the process are considered for probabilistic lifetime assessment. The present research aims to assess the probability of corrosion initiation of RC structures. The polynomial chaos expansion (PCE) method is employed to propagate uncertainties in a chloride ingress model requiring significant computational time to perform one deterministic simulation. PCE is also applied to perform a sensitivity analysis to determine which are the more influential random variables in the problem. The proposed methodology is applied to RC structures placed in several locations in France (Brest, Marseille, and Strasbourg) and subjected to realistic environmental conditions including climate change. The results show that the PCE‐based model is accurate and efficient for lifetime assessment of RC structures subject to chloride‐induced corrosion.
Predicting the behavior of prestressed concrete membrane elements by refined rotating‐angle softened‐truss model with efficient solution procedure
Authors: Bernardo Luís F. A. , Filho Benedito M. V. C. , Horowitz Bernardo
Published: January 2020

This article presents a refined version of the rotating‐angle softened truss model (RA‐STM) with efficient solution procedure to predict the full behavior of prestressed concrete (PC) membrane elements under in‐plane stresses. The refined model incorporates the concrete tensile strength in the perpendicular direction to the concrete struts and an additional smeared constitutive law for the tensile concrete. In order to avoid the classical trial and error solution procedure used in previous versions of the RA‐STM, a new algorithm is presented which lead to a more efficient solution procedure with higher numerical stability. The reliability of the proposed model is verified with experimental data related with PC plates under in‐plane stresses, where good agreement is observed.
A Facile and Green Approach Toward Preparation of Nanocellular Poly(Butylene Succinate)/Hydroxyl‐Functionalized Graphene Composite Foam Induced by Nonisothermal Crystallization
Authors: Zhou Hongfu , Qu Zhongjie , Yin Dexian , Ye Hong , Yu Kejing , Wang Xiangdong
Published: January 2020

In this article, a facile and green strategy of nonisothermal crystallization induction was proposed to produce nanocellular biodegradable polymer composite foams, which was demonstrated by a composite system of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) modified by hydroxyl‐functionalized graphene (HG) and chain extender. Nanocellular foams of chain extended PBS (CPBS) and CPBS/HG composite were prepared successfully with supercritical CO2. Two significant phenomena about the preparation of nanobubbles in CPBS and CPBS/HG composite foams were found. One was that the nanobubbles generated at the temperature region of crystallization transition and the other was that chain extension played a critical function in the generation of nanobubbles. As the foaming temperature switched from 86 to 85°C, an interesting microbubble to nanobubble transition in CPBS and CPBS/HG foams was observed. Due to the generation of nanobubbles and the enhancement of volume expansion ratio, an excellent thermal insulation performance was achieved by CPBS/HG foams. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 26:461–474, 2020. © 2020 Society of Plastics Engineers
Correlation functions in scalar field theory at large charge
Authors: Arias-Tamargo G. , Rodriguez-Gomez D. , Russo J. G.
Published: January 2020

Abstract

We compute general higher-point functions in the sector of large charge operators ϕ

n

,

$$ {\overline{\phi}}^n $$

ϕ
¯

n

at large charge in O(2)

$$ {\left(\overline{\phi}\phi \right)}^2 $$

ϕ
¯

ϕ

2

theory. We find that there is a special class of “extremal” correlators having only one insertion of

$$ {\overline{\phi}}^n $$

ϕ
¯

n

that have a remarkably simple form in the double-scaling limit n →∞ at fixed g n
2 ≡ λ, where g ~ ϵ is the coupling at the O(2) Wilson-Fisher fixed point in 4 − ϵ dimensions. In this limit, also non-extremal correlators can be computed. As an example, we give the complete formula for

$$ \left\langle \phi {\left({x}_1\right)}^n\phi {\left({x}_2\right)}^n\overline{\phi}{\left({x}_3\right)}^n\overline{\phi}{\left({x}_4\right)}^n\right\rangle $$

ϕ

x
1

n

ϕ

x
2

n

ϕ
¯

x
3

n

ϕ
¯

x
4

n

, which reveals an interesting structure.
On the Lebesgue measure of the Feigenbaum Julia set
Authors: Dudko Artem , Sutherland Scott
Published: January 2020

We show that the Julia set of the Feigenbaum polynomial has Hausdorff dimension less than 2 (and consequently it has zero Lebesgue measure). This solves a long-standing open question.
Long-term vertigo control after cochlear implantation in patients with end-stage Menière’s disease
Authors: Kurz Annabella , Auinger Alice , Arnoldner Christoph
Published: January 2020

Background

Menière’s disease (MD) is a symptom complex which is characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus and fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss, which worsens during the course of the disease.

Objective

Vertigo attacks (MD functional level scale) before compared to after cochlear implantation in patients with end-stage MD.

Design and patients

In this questionnaire-based cross-sectional study eight patients with end-stage MD, who received a cochlear implant (CI) were analyzed.

Main outcome measure

The effect of the CI on vertigo was measured preoperatively and postoperatively with the Menière’s disease functional level scale and the Menière’s disease outcome questionnaire. The primary outcome parameter influence of vertigo attacks on daily living was analyzed using the non-parametric Wilcoxon signed rank test before and after CI.

Setting

Department of otolaryngology of a medical university.

Results

The primary outcome measure influence of vertigo attacks on daily living as measured by the MD functional level scale improved significantly after CI.

Conclusion

A CI can be an adequate treatment for vertigo attacks in patients with end-stage MD; however, due to the small sample size additional (multicenter) trials are necessary to confirm the findings.
Recommendations from cold starts in big data
Authors: Ralph David , Li Yunjia , Wills Gary , Green Nicolas G.
Published: January 2020

This paper examines the challenging problem of new user cold starts in subset labelled and extremely sparsely labelled big data. We introduce a new Isle of Wight Supply Chain (IWSC) dataset demonstrating these characteristics. We also introduce a new technique addressing these challenges, the Transitive Semantic Relationships (TSR) model, which infers potential relationships from user and item text content and few labelled examples. We perform both implicit and explicit evaluation of TSR as a recommender system and from new user cold starts we achieve a hit-rate@10 of 77% on a collection of 630 items with only 376 supply-chain consumer labels, and 67% with only 142 supply-chain supplier labels, demonstrating a high level of performance even with extremely few labels in challenging cold-start scenarios. TSR is suitable for any dataset featuring few labels and user and item content, where similarity of content indicates similar relationship forming capability. TSR can be used as a standalone recommender system or to complement existing high-performance recommender models that require more labels or do not support cold starts.
Preserving the DAE structure in the Loewner model reduction and identification framework
Authors: Gosea Ion Victor , Zhang Qiang , Antoulas Athanasios C.
Published: January 2020

We propose an extension of the Loewner framework to descriptor linear systems that preserves the DAE (differential algebraic equation) structure of the underlying system. More precisely, by means of post-processing the data, the behavior at infinity is matched. As it turns out, the conventional procedure constructs a reduced model by directly compressing the data and hence losing information at infinity. By transforming the matrix pencil composed of the E and A matrices into a generalized block diagonal form, we can separate the descriptor system into two subsystems; one corresponding to the polynomial part and the other to the strictly proper part of the transfer function. Different algorithms are implemented to transform the matrix pencil into block diagonal form. Furthermore, a data-driven splitting of the descriptor system can be achieved in the Loewner framework. Hence, the coefficients of the polynomial part can be estimated directly from data. Several numerical examples are presented to illustrate the theoretical discussion.
Biomass production and nutrient content of three agroforestry tree species growing on an acid Anthropic Ferralsol under recurrent harvesting at different cutting heights
Authors: Mukangango Marguerite , Nduwamungu Jean , Naramabuye Francois Xavier , Nyberg Gert , Dahlin A. Sigrun
Published: January 2020

Agroforestry systems may alleviate challenges relating to soil degradation and low livestock production for smallholder farmers. Species-adjusted management regimes will determine how agroforestry fits in farming systems. Long-term productivity of biomass in agroforestry systems managed for fodder production requires tree species that coppice after repeated cutting. This study evaluated the effect of different cutting heights (0.3 and 1.0 m) and repeated harvests (1–5) on biomass production and chemical composition of the leguminous trees Acacia angustissima, Leucaena pallida and Mimosa scabrella in a field study on an Anthropic Ferralsol in Southern Rwanda. Shoot biomass production was highest at 0.3 m cutting height for A. angustissima and L. pallida, but M. scabrella could not survive that cutting height. Shoot biomass was highest for A. angustissima and lowest for M. scabrella, which did not adapt to repeated harvests. Leaf:stem ratio was not affected by cutting height. Cutting height did not affect crude protein (CP), but neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF) and total polyphenol (TP) concentrations were higher at 1.0 m cutting height than at 0.3 m. Crude protein was highest in A. angustissima and lowest in M. scabrella, while NDF and ADF were highest in M. scabrella. Although all species provided high feed quality in terms of high CP content at both cutting heights, low cutting height (0.3 m) is recommended for A. angustissima and L. pallida for higher overall quality and biomass production.
Gamma Process-Based Models for Disease Progression
Authors: Hijazy Ayman , Zempléni András
Published: January 2020

Classic chronic diseases progression models are built by gauging the movement from the disease free state, to the preclinical (asymptomatic) one, in which the disease is there but has not manifested itself through clinical symptoms, after spending an amount of time the case then progresses to the symptomatic state. The progression is modelled by assuming that the time spent in the disease free and the asymptomatic states are random variables following specified distributions. Estimating the parameters of these random variables leads to better planning of screening programs as well as allowing the correction of the lead time bias (apparent increase in survival observed purely due to early detection). However, as classical approaches have shown to be sensitive to the chosen distributions and the underlying assumptions, we propose a new approach in which we model disease progression as a gamma degradation process with random starting point (onset). We derive the probabilities of cases getting detected by screens and minimize the distance between observed and calculated distributions to get estimates of the parameters of the gamma process, screening sensitivity, sojourn time and lead time. We investigate the properties of the proposed model by simulations.
Anything New Under the Sun? Legal Clarifications as a Polish New Tool for Interpreting Business Law
Authors: Piszcz Anna
Published: January 2020

The aim of this article is to critically reflect on the Polish transformation taking place in the interpretation of business law in the form of legal clarifications that can be qualified as a soft law guidance. The article attempts to address the following questions: does the new Polish legal framework offer really novel approaches to the interpretation of business law and/or its tools? What are the peculiarities that characterize the new instrument for the interpretation of business law in the form of legal clarifications? What are the pros and cons of legal clarifications? What is the potential practical importance of the introduced interpretation tool, in particular in the context of certain previously existing tools for the interpretation of legal texts? To this end, first, the article sheds light into types of the interpretation of legal texts as well as soft law guidance. Second, it analyses the distinctive features of legal clarifications. Third, it contains the concise comparison of legal clarifications to certain previously existing instruments. In the last part before the conclusion, the topic required an attempt at an assessment. The point of the analysis in this article was both descriptive and normative.
Consideration of familiarity accumulated in the confined field trials for environmental risk assessment of genetically modified soybean (Glycine max) in Japan
Authors: Matsushita Akane , Goto Hidetoshi , Takahashi Yasuyuki , Tsuda Mai , Ohsawa Ryo
Published: January 2020

To date, there have been 160 regulatory approvals for environmental safety in Japan for the major genetically modified (GM) crops, including corn, soybean, canola and cotton. Confined field trials (CFTs) have been conducted in Japan for all single events, which contain various traits. The accumulated information from these previously conducted CFTs, as well as the agronomic field study data from other countries, provides a rich source of information to establish “familiarity” with the crops. This familiarity can be defined as the knowledge gained through experience over time, and used to inform the environmental risk assessments (ERA) of new GM crops in Japan. In this paper, we compiled agronomic data from the CFTs performed in Japan for 11 GM soybean events which obtained food, feed and environmental safety approvals from regulatory agencies in Japan. These CFTs were conducted by multiple developers according to Japan regulations to support the ERA of these GM soybean, covering standard measurement endpoints evaluated across developers in Japan. With this dataset, we demonstrate how familiarity gained from the CFTs of GM soybeans in Japan can be used to inform on the ERA of new GM soybean events. By leveraging this concept of familiarity, we discuss potential enhancements to the ERA process for GM soybean events in Japan.
Posttraumatisches Wachstum
Authors: Mangelsdorf Judith
Published: January 2020

Das Phänomen des posttraumatischen Wachstums beschreibt die Möglichkeit, dass Opfer traumatischer Erfahrung nicht nur psychische und soziale Einbußen als Folge des Erlebten erfahren, sondern auch persönliche Entwicklungsprozesse angestoßen werden können. Dieser Artikel derZeitschrift für Psychodrama und Soziometriegibt einen Überblick über den aktuellen Wissensstand zu posttraumatischem Wachstum sowie dessen Entstehung und Förderung. Es wird der Zusammenhang zu anderen Reaktionen auf traumatische Ereignisse, wie Resilienz und posttraumatische Belastungsstörung, erläutert. Posttraumatisches Wachstum kann zu einer zentralen Ressource im Leben von Betroffenen werden und damit konzeptionell eine wichtige Bereicherung für die Arbeit mit traumatisierten Klientinnen und Klienten sein.